The tennis world prepared for a Serbian takeover, with countrywomen Ana Ivanovic and Jelena Jankovic gaining steam on the women's tour. But Djokovic failed to capitalize on the momentum from his inaugural Grand Slam victory and instead became a leading contender for the "best of the rest" label.

Two years later, Djokovic counts himself as a Davis Cup winner, owner of two Australian Open trophies (2008 and 2011) and one of only three players who have defeated both Federer and Nadal at any tournament on two occasions. Djokovic did it previously in 2007 at Montreal. The Serb admits that with an improvement in fitness, the man who was once mocked by American Andy Roddick for having an array of ailments is feeling much different than the 2008 version of himself.

"It's quite a different feeling, you know, because I feel this year [I'm a] more complete player," he said. "Physically I'm very fit, very strong. And mentally it's different, because I have more experience than I had in 2008. So I am extremely happy with the way I'm playing and with the success that I'm having, but I know the season is very long."

The win in Indian Wells also signified Djokovic's return to world No. 2, supplanting Federer in the world rankings, and trailing only Nadal. The 1.88-meter-tall Serb, with a dangerous two-handed backhand and a return game that rivals the best in the business, has accounted for all three of Federer's losses this season. The Swiss is undefeated against all other players so far this year.

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