Novak Djokovic
Djokovic came from a set down to defeat the world number 1 Rafael Nadal 4-6, 6-3, 6-2. It was a fantastic display from Novak as he continued his unbeaten run in 2011.
Djokovic had defeated Federer in the semi finals and would take the number 2 spot from him in the new rankings.
Nadal broke Novak’s serve in the 7th game and went on to win the match with ease.
Djokovic broke Nadal’s consistency when he broke his service in the 6th game and was up 4-2 in the second set. But Nadal was not letting anything go as he got the break back from Djokovic. Djokovic was determined to win the set and he did so when he again broke Nadal and quickly pocketed the second set to level the match.
Charged up from the second set, Djokovic broke Nadal’s service again and that too twice and went on to win the match.
This was Novak’s first victory in six attempts against Nadal in a tour-level final.
At the post-match presentation, Djokovic said: “I wish you the best of luck for the rest of the year.”
“It’s always a pleasure playing against you. You are a big champion. For me you are the greatest player ever and a good friend so I wish you luck.”
Nadal was gracious in defeat after being denied a third Indian Wells title.
“I lost today but I think I lost against one of the greatest. For me to come back after a while outside competition and play in the final is fantastic,” said the 24-year-old.
Tags: BNP Paribas Open, Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Tennis
