The Daily Mix: Federer and Djokovic riding wildly different paths

INDIAN WELLS — Roger Federer returns to the desert as world No. 1 and the defending champion, while one of his biggest rivals, Novak Djokovic, is playing his first match since January 22.

The two are living very contrasting storylines this week as they prepare for their opening rounds. Federer takes on Federico Delbonis, while Djokovic is awaiting the winner of two qualifiers, Taro Daniel and Cameron Norrie.

While Djokovic has only been spotted on the practice courts, Federer has spoken with the press. He talked about topics varying from his foundation efforts and Laver Cup to what it's like to be back at No. 1.

"Getting back to No. 1 is deeply gratifying," Federer said. "When you're older you know how much work you've put into it. Whereas in 2004 when I finally got to No. 1 it was such a relief. I thought, oh man hopefully I will get to No. 1 one day."

It's certainly hard to imagine Federer never dominating from the top of the ranks. Meanwhile, Djokovic is trying to battle his way back inside the Top 10. Only the Serb knows how fit he will feel after an elbow procedure and weeks away from the court. The BNP Paribas Open marks his first match since falling to Hyeon Chung at the Australian Open.

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