After pushing Novak Djokovic to three sets before losing in the Indian Wells semifinals, John Isner says his return from a knee injury is going better than expected.

"I did not expect to be this far along this early," he said. "I didn't hit a ball for a full month after Australia, so, you know, it's encouraging in that I played well this week. I certainly did."

Isner returns to the Top 10 as a result of his performance, and is looking to continue playing well at Miami. Consistency will be key to remaining in the Top 10, he added.

"I think going forward in Miami, you know, I think I'll be able to take the court feeling healthy,'' he said. "I think the more matches that I play, the better shape I'm going to get in. That's the best type of fitness you can do.

"These are the type of weeks I need to, you know, put back to back and whatnot to really establish myself, and not have so many sporadic results."