“I think this is a miracle,” 20-year-old Luca Nardi stays grounded despite beating World No. 1 and his idol Novak Djokovic at 2024 Indian Wells

The Italian was out of words after recording his biggest ever career win following a three-set extravagant effort against Djokovic.

“I think this is a miracle,” 20-year-old Luca Nardi stays grounded despite beating World No. 1 and his idol Novak Djokovic at 2024 Indian Wells

Luca Nardi (Image via IMAGO)

In a major upset at the 2024 Indian Wells Masters, World No. 1 Novak Djokovic was knocked out in the third round. World No. 123 Luca Nardi has become the first lucky loser ever to achieve this feat.

Nardi won the tie 6-4, 3-6, 6-3 after 2 hours and 20 minutes to record his biggest career win. From almost returning home after losing in the qualifiers, hardly anyone would have thought he could beat Nole. But the 20-year-old has done the unimaginable. He now moves into the fourth round of the tournament.

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His first set win already stunned many as it has been a big task for many to even snatch a set from the Serb. As expected, Djokovic bounced back perfectly in the second set. The argument with the umpire further added fuel to his fire.

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As the match moved into the third set, Nardi was still not the favorite for the tie given Nole’s proven track record of coming from behind to win. But the Italian managed to hold everything that was thrown his way by the 24-time singles Grand Slam title winner.

Speaking during his on-court interview, the youngster admitted that even he didn’t think he could beat Djokovic. He credited his compatriot Jannik Sinner for inspiring him to take on the World No. 1 calling all of the match ‘crazy’. 

I think before this night no one knew me. I hope now the crowd enjoyed the game. I’m super happy with this one. I think this is a miracle. I’m a 20-year-old guy ranked 100 in the world beating Novak. Crazy. Watching Jannik win all the matches for sure pushed me to be better.
Said Nardi. 
I didn’t expect to win today. But I always try to do my best in practice. This happened and I’m really happy.
Added the World No. 123.

Luca Nardi confirmed to break into the Top-100 after today’s win

Defeating Djokovic always has its perks and the young Italian is no different. Coming in from the qualifiers and now into the fourth round, the 20-year-old is guaranteed a Top-100 spot when the ATP rankings are updated after Indian Wells.

Luca Nardi
Luca Nardi (image via IMAGO)

As per the latest live rankings, he will be World No. 95 next Monday. This confirms him making his Top-100 debut. But with his confidence soaring high, he will surely look to advance in the event and the rankings.

He will now take on American Tommy Paul for a place in the quarter-finals. The 17th seed defeated Ugo Humbert 6-4, 6-4 in his third-round encounter earlier. As for Djokovic, the defeat will not have any impact on his ranking as he is confirmed to stay at the top at least till the Clay season fully begins.

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