Tennis-Djokovic thrilled to return to Indian Wells after five year hiatus

FILE PHOTO: Jan 26, 2024; Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Novak Djokovic of Serbia in action against Jannik Skinner of Italy in the semi-finals of the men?s singles at the Australian Open. Mandatory Credit: Mike Frey-USA TODAY Sports/File Photo

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Novak Djokovic on Tuesday said he was excited to be back in Indian Wells to compete at the BNP Paribas Open for the first time since 2019 after U.S. travel restrictions related to COVID-19 had kept him away.

The world number one is seeking an unprecedented sixth title at the Masters 1000 event that begins next week and is regarded as the biggest tennis tournament outside of the four Grand Slams.