Indian Wells Open 2024: Novak Djokovic vs Luca Nardi preview, head-to-head, prediction, live streaming details

Published at :March 11, 2024 at 7:45 PM

Modified at :March 11, 2024 at 7:46 PM

(Courtesy : Hindustan Times/ATP Tour)

This will be the first meeting between both players.

Novak Djokovic, the World No.1, is set to compete against the lucky loser, Luca Nardi, in the third round of the Indian Wells Open 2024. Initially, Nardi fell short in qualification, but got a fortunate break when he replaced Tomas Martin Etcheverry in the draw. Nardi got a bye in the first round and defeated China’s Zhang Zhizhen 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 in the second.

In contrast, this tournament marks a comeback for Novak Djokovic. He enters the third round after defeating Aleksandar Vukic at the Indian Wells Open 2024, his first appearance at the tournament since 2019. This also signals his return to mainstream tennis following his unexpected loss to Jannik Sinner in the semifinals of the Australian Open 2024.

Novak Djokovic vs Luca Nardi match preview

Novak Djokovic was at his usual best in the second round, where he defeated Aleksandar Vukic 6-2, 5-7, 6-3, scoring 98 points to Vukic’s 78. Djokovic displayed his aggressive gameplay, blasting 38 winners in the match. However, losing a set early in the tournament was a setback, which is unlike Djokovic.

Djokovic served with intent, converting 11 blazing aces and committing five double faults in his service games. Overall, Djokovic was extremely effective on the serves, scoring 83% of the time on the first serve and 53% on second serves. However, he did concede his serve twice and managed to break Vukic five times, converting 38% of his break points (5/13).

Head-to-head records

Matches– 0

Novak Djokovic-0

Luca Nardi– 0

The third round clash at Indian Wells Open 2024 between Novak Djokovic and Luca Nardi will be the first time both these players will be playing each other. It will be interesting to see who draws first blood.

Where and how to watch live streaming and TV broadcast of Novak Djokovic vs Luca Nardi, Indian Wells Open 2024 in India, UK and USA?

Tennis fans in India can watch the Indian Wells Open 2024, also known as the BNP Paribas Open, live on SonyLiv and the Sony TV channels. In the UK and the US, live coverage is available on Sky Sports and the Tennis Channel respectively

Date/Match Timings

India: 12th March (6:30 Am IST: Tentative)

USA: 11th March (6:00 Pm UTC: Tentative)

UK: 12th March (1:00 Am GMT: Tentative)

Prediction

Novak Djokovic, the current World No.1, has a proven track record on hard courts and holds a statistical advantage over Luca Nardi. Djokovic’s experience and undying motivation to be the best, even at the age of 36, are key factors that cannot be overlooked. His performances in recent years, pushing the barriers of mental and physical abilities in the sport, have been nothing short of remarkable.

On the other hand, Luca Nardi has had a decent year in 2024 with an 8-6 win-loss record overall and 8-5 on hard courts. His best performance of the year was reaching the final of the Chennai Challenger. However, he faces a significant challenge in the third round of the Indian Wells Open 2024 against Djokovic.

Given Djokovic’s experience, hard court capabilities and relentless drive to excel, he is likely to pose a formidable challenge for Nardi. However, Nardi’s recent form suggests he could put up a good fight.

Result: Djokovic to win in straight sets

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