Djokovic to play Indian Wells for the first time since 2019.

Novak Djokovic is expected to return to Indian Wells for the BNP Paribas Open next month after a five-year absence due to COVID-19 and U.S. travel restrictions, according to the tournament's entry list, which was released Wednesday.

The men's lineup also includes three-time Indian Wells champion Rafa Nadal, who missed last month's Australian Open due to a muscle tear but has since been added to the entry list for an ATP 250 event in Doha on February 19-24.

World number one Djokovic, whose previous appearance at Indian Wells in 2019 ended in a third-round exit, will be looking for an unprecedented sixth title at what is regarded as the biggest tennis tournament outside of the four Grand Slams.

The 2020 BNP Paribas Open was canceled due to the COVID-19 outbreak, and Djokovic missed the following three editions because the United States did not allow unvaccinated foreigners to enter the country.

The star-studded field also includes reigning champion Carlos Alcaraz, Australian Open winner Jannik Sinner, and Taylor Fritz, who became the first American to win the Indian Wells title since Andre Agassi in 2001.

On the women's side, world number one Iga Swiatek will be joined by 2023 Indian Wells champion Elena Rybakina, Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka, and Americans Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula.

Naomi Osaka, the 2018 Indian Wells champion, and 2019 finalist Angelique Kerber are also expected to return for the first time since 2022, following maternity leave.

The BNP Paribas Open runs from March 3 to 17.

SportsLigue