Following a round 1 elimination in Qatar, Novak Djokovic suffered yet another early exit in an ATP tournament. Djokovic lost to 85th-ranked Botic van de Zandschulp on Sunday to crash out if the Indian Wells in the round of 64 phase of the competition. Following the culmination of the match, Djokovic addressed his defeat and expressed dissatisfaction with his play.
Novak Djokovic, 37, is ostensibly in the twilight phase of his career. The wait for the 25th Grand Slam title has already been prolonged and the defeats in other competitions are only adding to the frustration. Following the culmination of the Indian Wells stint, Djokovic opened up about the loss and had to swallow some hard pills.
“I regret the level of tennis I produced, considering how I practice these days,” said a clearly deflated Djokovic.
“To be honest, the difference between the center court and the other courts is immense. The ball is bouncing on the center courts higher than some of the highest clay courts, to be honest. Just struggled a lot with that. Couldn’t find the rhythm.
“When I reflect on this match, obviously I’ll see a little bit more what, you know, I could have done more, but I think he played, I think, some really good points to break my serve. But just, yeah, just putting myself in that position, I shouldn’t allow myself to do that.
“I’m disappointed that I lost, but I guess, you know, if you put things in that larger perspective, of course I’ve had an incredible career. Being consistent for so many years, obviously you have high expectations of yourself.