Novak Djokovic has decided to play the Miami Open for the first time after a six-year absence, considering that the Serbian ace had not played in Florida since the first edition of the tournament at Hard Rock Stadium in 2019.

On that occasion, the former world No.1 made it through two rounds before losing to Spanish player Roberto Bautista Agut in the round of 16.

The 37-year-old from Belgrade – who won this tournament six times – had not played the second Masters 1000 of the season for several reasons.

His long absence was certainly conditioned by his choice not to get vaccinated against the Coronavirus, which prevented him from entering the United States for some time. In addition, the 24-time Grand Slam champion has significantly reduced his schedule in recent years to preserve his body and is always in top form in the Majors.

However, Nole absolutely needs to play a few matches right now and regain confidence after the serious defeat against Botic van de Zandschulp at Indian Wells.

Nole needs to play

Djokovic played one of the worst matches of his entire career in California and sent very worrying signals in view of the rest of the season.

On the latest edition of ‘Sans Filet’, top analyst Benoit Maylin analyzed Novak’s chances in Miami: “What should we expect from him in Florida? He has suffered three defeats in a row, something that has not happened to him for seven years and he is not playing brilliant tennis.

He won this tournament six times during his career, but it was played in the old venue. Nole has played only once at Hard Rock Stadium and was eliminated in the round of 16.

The Serbian is very clever and knows himself perfectly. He decided to participate in this Masters 1000 to play some matches, not to win the tournament.

His main goal is to prepare for Roland Garros. If he were to triumph in Paris, he will have won all the Slams at least four times.

If he does not reach this milestone, he will try again at Wimbledon, where he has always reached the final since 2018.