The Serbian star had won 14 matches in a row, but lost to Tommy Haas in Miami.
Both moved on to the fourth round despite windy conditions.
The Spaniard looks like he's back in fine form after a knee injury.
The Spanish star will strengthen his left leg in buildup to French Open.
Down a set to Juan Martin del Potro, Rafael Nadal battled back, 4-6, 6-3, 6-4.
The Russian won at Indian Wells, 6-2, 6-2.
The men’s and women’s finals of the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells are set to take place on Sunday.
Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic will be in action in the semifinals at Indian Wells.
Men’s quarterfinals and women’s semifinals are scheduled for Friday’s play at Indian Wells.
Rafael Nadal beat a compromised Roger Federer in the quarterfinals of the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells.
Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal will meet in the quarterfinals of the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells.
Federer faces fellow countryman Stanislas Wawrinka.
Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray will be in action on Tuesday at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells.
Leonardo Mayer withdrew in the third-round match with a back injury.
A look ahead to day five of the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells, featuring third-round action.
The BNP Paribas Open is heating up for top seeds.
"I have just a few bullets left," the legendary closer said.
The Spanish star defeated Ryan Harrison 7-6, 6-2.
The No. 5 ranked player in the world, hasn't played on hard court in a year.
Nadal thumped Ferrer 6-0, 6-2, in Acapulco.
The Serbian star knocked off Tomas Berdych 7-5, 6-3.
The Serb is a career 12-1 against Berdych.
The Czech star set up a meeting with Novak Djokovic.
The top stars are on course for a showdown in Saturday's final.
Isner blasted 28 aces in a three-set victory.
Novak Djokovic beat Viktor Troicki in straight sets.
David Ferrer beat Stanislas Wawrinka in three sets.
The No. 1 player in the world continues to be bothered issues.
The American tennis star is No. 1 at age 31.
The top women's singles players advanced on Tuesday.