SHOCKWAVE IN INDIAN WELLS AS LUCA NARDI KNOCKS OUT NOVAK DJOKOVIC IN MASTERFUL PERFORMANCE

Luca Nardi, ranked No. 123, shocked the tennis world by stunning world No. 1 Novak Djokovic in a thrilling three-set encounter to advance to the fourth round of the Indian Wells tournament. Entering the main draw as a lucky loser, the 20-year-old Italian not only secured the biggest win of his career but also cemented his entry into the top 100 rankings for the first time.

The match kicked off with an intense first set, both players displaying resilience on their serves. Nardi seized the pivotal moment in the fifth game, converting his first break point opportunity to take a 4-2 lead, which he consolidated with a solid service hold. Despite no further breaks, Nardi clinched the set 6-4 with a potent mix of aggression, tallying 10 winners to Djokovic’s 8.

Djokovic responded emphatically in the second set, securing an early break to surge ahead 2-0. However, Nardi swiftly bounced back, leveling the set at 2-2. Despite Djokovic’s relentless serve dominance, yielding only one of the next 13 service points, Nardi kept pace. The Serbian maestro eventually claimed the set 6-3, setting the stage for a tense decider.

In the third set, Nardi showcased his best tennis, amassing an impressive 16 winners against Djokovic’s mere 2. Displaying versatility across all areas of the court, Nardi executed aggressive net approaches and secured the crucial break in the sixth game to take a 4-2 lead. Despite the mounting pressure, Nardi maintained his composure to secure the monumental upset, prevailing 6-4, 3-6, 6-3 over the 24-time Grand Slam champion.

The victory marks a significant milestone in Nardi’s burgeoning career, signaling his arrival on the international stage and underscoring his potential as a rising star in the tennis world.