Djokovic defeats Federer to retain his title at Indian Wells.

The world number one won 6-3 6-7 (5-7) 6-2 in the two-hour and 17-minute final at the BNP Paribas Open last night, March 22nd.

This is the fifth time Djokovic has won this Masters 1000 tournament. Photo: AP.

Djokovic entered the match brimming with confidence, just as he had done in his crushing victory over Andy Murray in the semi-finals. He demonstrated this confidence by securing the first break-point opportunity in the fourth game. In the following two games, Federer struggled to fight back in similar situations, despite Djokovic leading 40-0. However, saving three break-points, including an ace to narrow the gap to 30-40, Djokovic ultimately won with a tricky down-the-line shot that forced Federer to hit out.

Djokovic, who had won their two previous encounters at Indian Wells, won the next game to take a 5-2 lead, and then quickly closed out the set when Federer hit the ball into the net.

Djokovic not only had to overcome Federer but also contend with pressure from the crowd. Photo: EPA.

Federer put in more effort in the second set, and was given a break point in the second game. However, Djokovic immediately responded by breaking serve in the third game. After Djokovic took the lead 4-2, the game seemed decided, but Federer refused to give up. He played steadily and leveled the score at 4-4, much to the excitement of the crowd.

They remained locked in a close contest until the tie-break, and although Djokovic led 3-1 and then 5-3, he began to show signs of frustration with the crowd. His serves, which were usually perfect, also abandoned him, leading to two double faults – thus paving the way for Federer to return to the match.

The match belonged to Djokovic again as he led 2-0 in the deciding set, but his frustration began to show, evident in him being broken and smashing his racket on the ground. But that was exactly the impetus he needed, and although Federer won the next game to level the score at 2-2, Djokovic won the remaining four games to claim the championship.

Both of them want to meet more times this season. Photo: AP

"I want to congratulate Novak on the fantastic final and a wonderful tournament," said Federer, who has 17 Grand Slam titles. "This is a great start to the season and I hope we can play many more matches together this year."

Meanwhile, after lifting his 50th professional title, Djokovic sent a message to his great rival: "This was a fantastic tournament and you are a champion, a great opponent. It was a pleasure to face you, and as you said, hopefully we'll get to play a few more matches this year."

According to VnExpress