Djokovic eyes deep run at Indian Wells with Murray by his side

Novak Djokovic, with old rival Andy Murray in his coaching corner, is optimistic he can put together a deep run at the Indian Wells ATP Masters to kick start a so-far disappointing 2025 campaign.

"I definitely look to go deep in the tournament," said the Serb star, who is seeded sixth in a field led by world number two Alexander Zverev and two-time defending champion Carlos Alcaraz.

"I've done, I think, the right things in preparation. I've been playing some good tennis these days. So let's see. Let's see how far I can go."

Djokovic's five titles place him in a tie with the retired Swiss legend Roger Federer for the most victories in the California desert.

His inaugural triumph occurred in 2008, while his latest victory was in 2016, marking the conclusion of a streak of three consecutive wins at Indian Wells.

After exiting the Australian Open semi-finals in January with an injury, Djokovic was eliminated in the second round of the Qatar Open.

Although Murray was not present during that tournament, Djokovic expressed on Thursday his belief that he and the Scot will continue their player-coach collaboration at least until the conclusion of the clay court season, with hopes of reaping the rewards at both Indian Wells and the Miami Open shortly thereafter.

"I'm enjoying the relationship with Andy," Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, expressed his thoughts on the surprising choice to employ Murray in November, only a few months after Murray concluded his professional playing career.

"I still feel like we are going through the process of getting to know each other on the court in a different way than we have known each other for 25 years," Djokovic said. "So it's obviously a new role for him.

"You know, he's also exploring it and trying to, you know, understand how he can excel in it."

Murray, a three-time Grand Slam champion, was previously included in the elite group known as the "big four" in men's tennis, alongside Djokovic, Federer, and Rafael Nadal.

Although Murray lacks extensive experience in coaching, Djokovic acknowledged that he played a significant role in enhancing the Serb's performance in Australia.

"It was unfortunate to finish the tournament the way I did it, but it was an injury issue," Djokovic said. "In terms of the game, I think I played maybe the best tennis that I played in quite some time, since the Olympics, actually.

"So I definitely attribute that to the work I had with Andy."

Djokovic said the "Sunshine Double" of Indian Wells and Miami provides the perfect stretch to build his relationship with Murray.

"It's also because other than slams, (there are) few tournaments that really give me inspiration when I wake up in the morning and think about where I want to do well.

"Indian Wells and Miami are definitely at the top of that list," he said. "I'm excited to be here with Andy on board."