Novak Djokovic equals Rafael Nadal's record for most ATP Masters 1000 matches

Serbia's Novak Djokovic came at the Indian Wells Open 2025 with aspirations of reversing his recent fortunes and aiming to surpass Roger Federer. Both Djokovic and Federer have each secured five titles at this prestigious ATP 1000 event.

However, it was not to be, as the Serb fell to Botic van de Zandschulp in his 500th ATP Masters 1000 match. Despite the former World No. 1 matching Rafael Nadal's record for the most match appearances, he suffered a loss to a lucky loser for the second consecutive year. Djokovic fell to Luca Nardi in 2024, also in three sets.

A loss overshadowed the milestone celebration for the 24-time Grand Slam champion. Following a defeat of 2-6, 6-2, 1-6 against Zandschulp, the Serbian player continues to be without a tour-level title since the 2023 ATP Finals. With 500 appearances at ATP 1000 events, Djokovic's record stands at 409 wins and 91 losses.

For Djokovic, the 2024 season marked the least successful year since 2017, a year in which he secured two titles. His only victory in 2024 was the Olympic Gold medal in Paris.

It was an error-strewn match for the No. #7 seed, with 16 winners to 37 unforced errors as he recorded his third consecutive defeat of the season. At 37 years of age, Djokovic's record for the season now stands at 7-4 following his first loss to the Dutch player. The head-to-head record between Djokovic and Zandschulp is now tied at 1-1.

In the post-match press conference, Djokovic shared his thoughts on the difference between the centre court and the other courts in the venue. The ball bounce being higher than on clay courts upset his rhythm, he stated.

Zandschulp's triumph against Djokovic marked his eighth victory against a top-ten player and his second of the current season. The Dutchman, currently ranked 85th, is set to compete against Argentine Francisco Cerundolo as he aims to reach the round of 16 in Indian Wells for the first time. Cerundolo overcame American wildcard Mackenzie McDonald to advance to the third round.

The Serbian player is set to travel to Florida for the Miami Open. Djokovic’s tournament wins remain agonisingly poised at 99 titles. He is just one win away from becoming the third player on the ATP Tour to achieve at least 100 titles, joining the ranks of Jimmy Connors (109) and Roger Federer (103).

Cover Credits - Tennis.com