Novak Djokovic gets a tough Indian Wells Open draw as he braces for his biggest nightmare

Novak Djokovic’s return to the ATP Tour at the Indian Wells Open 2025 comes with a daunting draw, testing the Serb’s resilience as he competes in just his second event since withdrawing from January’s Australian Open due to injury. Seeded seventh, Djokovic faces a treacherous path in the California desert, starting with a potential second-round clash against an opponent who’s historically rattled his rhythm.

While the 24-time Grand Slam champion enjoys a first-round bye, his quest for a sixth Indian Wells title could hit early turbulence. Let’s unravel the challenge looming in his shadow—and why it’s his trickiest mental hurdle.

The unlikely nemesis lurking in round two

Djokovic’s potential second-round foe? Nick Kyrgios—the mercurial Australian who holds a rare 2-1 head-to-head edge over the Serbian legend. Kyrgios, using a protected ranking to enter the tournament, is one of the few players to consistently trouble Djokovic. Their rivalry peaked at Wimbledon 2022, where Novak Djokovic edged Kyrgios in a fiery final, but the Aussie’s unorthodox style and fearless shot-making have often left the World No. 7 scrambling.

Despite their rocky past—marked by on-court spats and social media jabs—the duo have since forged an unlikely friendship. Kyrgios notably defended Djokovic during his 2021 Australian Open visa saga, calling out the “unfair treatment” over his vaccination stance. Now, their camaraderie faces its toughest test yet: a high-stakes showdown under the desert sun.

Novak Djokovic’s rocky road to redemption

If Djokovic survives the Kyrgios threat, the gauntlet continues. A third-round clash against Francisco Cerundolo or Alejandro Davidovich Fokina awaits, followed by a likely fourth-round duel with Alex de Minaur. The quarterfinals could pit him against reigning champion Carlos Alcaraz, who’s eyeing a historic three-peat at Indian Wells. Djokovic narrowly defeated Alcaraz in the Australian Open quarterfinals, but the Spaniard’s dominance on hard courts makes him a formidable hurdle.

Beyond Alcaraz, a semifinal matchup with Casper Ruud looms, while top seed Alexander Zverev could block Novak Djokovic’s path in the final. For the 36-year-old, the draw is a brutal reminder of the tour’s relentless depth.

Andy Murray’s role in Djokovic’s comeback

Djokovic’s silver lining? The continued partnership with Andy Murray, who joined his coaching team ahead of the Australian Open. The collaboration, now extended “indefinitely,” blends Murray’s tactical acumen with Djokovic’s experience.