Djokovic: defeat to Federer at RG toughest

No. 1 Novak Djokovic, who will attempt to defend his title at the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells this week,  says that the last time that a defeat got him down in the dumps was at the 2011 Roland Garros, when he fell to Roger Federer in four long sets in the semifinals. Ironically, the Serbian said that was his favorite memory in all his matches at the tournament.

"It was probably against Roger in French Open last year," Djokovic said. "Even though it was first loss of the year, I think it was a tough one. He was a better player that day, so I wasn't disappointed with my game because I think I played well. I think I went for all my shots. I mean, I wasn't being too defensive there.  But still it was a disappointing loss because I was hoping that I can play the first final in Roland Garros."

Djokovic added that he was able to quickly forget his semifinal defeat to Andy Murray in Dubai last week, perhaps the first time since 2011 when he lost a match when fully healthy.  "I haven't played great there in that event, especially that day he was playing better," Djokovic said. "But I'm putting that aside. I'm moving on. I have very, very important tournaments ahead of me that I need to prepare for." - Matt Cronin