Novak Djokovic and the Indian Wells drama: Family support carries him through

The night was hot in the Californian desert, and it became just as heated on the court for Novak Djokovic. In the second round at Indian Wells, the seasoned Serb had to dig deep to overcome American Aleksandar Kovacevic. It ended in a 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 victory, but the path there was anything but straightforward. In fact, for long periods, it hung by a thread.

Kovacevic sends shockwaves through the arena

The first set was a pure show of power from Kovacevic. He hammered down one unreturnable serve after another, and for the first time in a while, Djokovic looked short of answers. 4-6 and a lost set against a player he should, on paper, have under control. But there's a reason Novak Djokovic has won 24 Grand Slams. Instead of shutting down, he stepped up his return game and started reading his opponent's serve much better. He secured the second set 6-3, and suddenly it was game on.

Jelena, Srdjan, Dijana and Marko: His family were his anchor

Sitting on edge in the stands was the Djokovic clan. His wife, Jelena Djokovic, was constantly on the edge of her seat, and several times she was seen gesticulating wildly whenever Novak won a key point. Behind her sat his parents, Srdjan Djokovic and Dijana Djokovic, along with his younger brother Marko Djokovic. Srdjan, always known as Novak's first and biggest fan, was on his feet multiple times during the long rallies. It was clear to everyone that this wasn't just a tennis match – it was a family affair. When Novak looked up at them after a crucial point, it gave him that extra bit of composure that made all the difference in the third set.

• The turning point: In the third set, at 3-3, Djokovic saved two break points with stunning forehand winners.
• Family energy: After every decisive shot, Novak looked up towards his brother Marko, who was cheering wildly.
• Match duration: 2 hours and 41 minutes of battle – standard fare for a 38-year-old legend.
• Next challenge: The fourth round awaits one of the young players who will look to capitalise on any fatigue.

The legend who refuses to let go

After the match, Novak Djokovic blew a heart up towards his family. It was a moment that encapsulated everything he stands for. He has won Indian Wells five times before, and although his competitors are getting younger and stronger, his winning instinct remains intact. He knows he can't go on forever, but as long as his family are in the stands cheering him on, he'll keep finding new ways to win. Because, as he said with a smile to those around him: "They're the ones who give me the legs to keep going."