Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal advance at Indian Wells
Monday 14 March 2016 11:23, UK
Novak Djokovic made a slow start as he launched his bid for a third consecutive Indian Wells Masters title before defeating American qualifier Bjorn Fratangelo 2-6 6-1 6-2.
Fratangelo raced into a 4-0 lead in the opening set before Djokovic fought his way back as he claimed back-to-back service breaks on his way to winning the final five games.
Victory extended the Serb's winning streak at the California event to 12 matches.
"He came out with a good game plan. I started awful," Djokovic told the ATP's official website.
ATP Masters Tennis
"All credit to Bjorn on playing a great match, but I wasn't feeling comfortable at all on the court. I was just trying to find a way, trying to hang in there and make it through."
Rafael Nadal was also tested by his opponent, Luxembourg's Gilles Muller, before coming through 6-2 2-6 6-4.
A backhand passing shot gave the Spaniard a 30-0 lead with Muller serving in the final game, with Muller double-faulting to make it 40-0.
Nadal then gave two points back on errant forehands before claiming victory with a forehand return that Muller failed to deal with as he advanced to the net.
"He's a very, very difficult player, especially in these conditions," No 4 seed Nadal said of his left-handed opponent.
"It's very, very difficult to play. You have to be focused all the time and put as many balls in the court as you can and wait for your moment."
Fifth seed Kei Nishikori cruised into the third round with a 6-3 6-3 win over Mikhail Kukushkin of Kazakhstan, while No 7 seed Jo-Wilfried Tsonga overcame compatriot Vincent Millot 7-5 6-1.
