John Isner shares why he’s picking Novak Djokovic to win Indian Wells this year
On the latest episode of the Nothing Major Podcast, John Isner, Sam Querrey and Steve Johnson shared their picks for Indian Wells.
Sam Querrey opened by backing Frances Tiafoe to build on his recent good form. Tiafoe made it to the Mexican Open final last week and Querrey believes he could have another strong tournament.
Johnson picked Felix Auger-Aliassime to reach the semifinals, while Isner felt that Djokovic’s relaxed mindset going into the event might work in his favour.
“Give me Frances Tiafoe to make a run at Indian Wells,” began Querrey. “Not to win it, but to have a run, like a quarterfinal.
“On the women’s side I will take Coco [to win]. Gritty courts, it can almost be a clay court at times. It’s high bouncing and she can hit the high looping forehands, so give me Coco on the women’s side.”
Johnson responded: “I think Felix Auger-Aliassime is going to make the semis. On the women’s side I will take Iga. I think she has had some time off; she is going to come out on these slower courts at Indian Wells and gets the job done.”
Isner added: “I am going with the GOAT. Give me Novak to take the title. He is there; he has been practicing at UCLA. He was at the Lakers game, not a worry in the world.
“He is not worried about this event. Give me Novak; two out of three – it can be done. There are a lot of days off in this tournament. It’s not going to be physically taxing for him.
Breaking down Novak Djokovic’s path at Indian Wells
Djokovic has five Indian Wells titles to his name, but he hasn’t made it past the fourth round since lifting the trophy in 2016.
That stretch includes a surprise early exit last year, when he lost his opener to Botic Van de Zandschulp.
This year, he’ll open against either Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard or Kamil Majchrzak. The Frenchman’s big serve could pose a challenge if it lands on the day, but overall, it looks like a manageable start for Djokovic.
Corentin Moutet is the first seeded player Djokovic could face, with former world number six Hubert Hurkacz also a potential third round opponent.
This time around, though, Alcaraz is his projected semifinal opponent instead of Sinner. Their head-to-head record is currently tied at 5-5, but Alcaraz has taken their two most recent encounters.
The main draw begins on Wednesday March 4th. However, Djokovic isn’t expected to play until Friday at the earliest due to his seeding and scheduled rest days.