Novak Djokovic secured his third BNP Paribas Open title by coming from a set down to beat Roger Federer, 3-6, 6-3, 7-6 (7-3), in Indian Wells, Calif.
Djokovic gave Federer the early advantage by losing serve at the start of the opening set, but the Serb came storming back to seal the 42nd title of his career and his first this year.
After claiming the second set with a single break, the world No. 2 moved ahead in the decider but was then broken when serving for the match.
It was Djokovic, the 2008 and 2011 champion at Indian Wells, who eventually prevailed in a tiebreak to complete the victory at the ATP 1000 hardcourt event in 2 hours, 12 minutes.
"Not winning a title (in 2014) and coming here, there were certain doubts," Djokovic told reporters. "I had ups and downs in my concentration in opening rounds, but I managed to stay mentally strong and have that self-belief. That's something that definitely makes this title very special to me."
Sunday's matchup was the 33rd between the rivals. Federer still leads the series 17-16, having beaten Djokovic in three sets in the semifinals at Dubai two weeks ago. Djokovic will remain No. 2 in the world, while Federer will rise three spots to No. 5 on Monday in the ATP Tour rankings.
Djokovic's victory evened their rivalry on hard courts at 13 wins apiece.
"I know he always comes out confident, aggressive," Djokovic said. "He doesn't give you the victory; you have to earn it."
"I was able to just keep the pressure on Novak and show him that if he slips up, I will be there and I will make it a very competitive match in the end for him," Federer said.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.