Novak Djokovic: Philipp Kohlschreiber got me out of my comfort zone

ATP Tour

Shahida Jacobs
March 13, 2019

Novak Djokovic was impressed with Philipp Kohlschreiber’s tactics during his defeat to the German at the BNP Paribas Open, but added it was “just one of those days” and he has to “turn the next page”.

The world No 1 won’t be adding a sixth Indian Wells Masters crown to his collection this year after being dumped out by Kohlschreiber in the third round with the veteran winning 6-4, 6-4.

The 15-time Grand Slam winner, though, was quick to praise the world No 39, who picked up his first win over the Serb since 2009.

“I liked my chances more at night against Kohlschreiber, but it wasn’t to be last night,” Djokovic said after the match. “It was raining. But [it was] completely different conditions today. [The] ball bounces much higher.

“Obviously, he uses his spin very well. I wasn’t playing well. One of those days. I congratulate him for playing tactically really well and getting me out of my comfort zone. He deserved to win.

“He’s been around for so many years, and he doesn’t really get overwhelmed by the occasion of playing on centre court or anything like that. He’s proven he can win against top guys. It’s not really a surprise… When he’s feeling the ball on a given day, he can really win against anybody on any surface for that matter.”

However, Djokovic is moving on quickly as he turned his attention to the doubles in Indian Wells as he and partner Fabio Fognini are into the semi-finals, while he also has his sights set on the Miami Open.

“I don’t enjoy losing, nobody does, but especially in a tournament like this, [a] tournament where I have had plenty of success in the past,” he said. “I thought I was in a good form. I was practising well. But it just happens, one of those days. You just have to deal with it, move on, turn the next page.

“Miami is the next tournament singles-wise for me, [but] I’m going to try to go all the way here in doubles. I’m really excited about that and [will] get some good practice in.”