The BNP Paribas Open, also known as the Indian Wells Masters 1000, is set to take center stage in the tennis world from March 7th to 20th. Both the men’s and women’s draws promise thrilling competition as top players battle for supremacy in the Californian desert.
While many tennis stars are eager to compete, a notable absence will be felt: Novak Djokovic. Due to his vaccination status, the Serbian legend is unable to enter the United States and has confirmed his withdrawal from both Indian Wells and the Miami Open. [[1]]
Rafael Nadal, however, arrives in Indian Wells on a remarkable winning streak. Undefeated in 2022 with 15 victories under his belt, Nadal has already secured three titles this year: the melbourne Open 250, the Australian Open, and the Acapulco tournament. He’ll be looking to continue his dominant form and add another prestigious title to his collection. [[1]]
Joining Nadal in the men’s draw are seven other Spanish contenders, including rising star Carlos Alcaraz, veteran Pablo Carreño Busta, and Alejandro Davidovich Fokina. Roberto Bautista Agut, Pedro Martínez, Pablo Andújar, Roberto Carballés Baena, and Jaume Munar round out the strong Spanish contingent. [[2]]
On the women’s side, all eyes will be on defending champion Paula Badosa. The Spanish star will be looking to repeat her success from last year. Garbiñe Muguruza and Sara Sorribes Tormo are also among the notable Spanish players competing in the women’s draw. [[2]]
Tournament Schedule and Viewing Options
The main draw of Indian Wells 2022 commences this Thursday, following the completion of the qualifying rounds. Matches will be played in two sessions: a daytime session starting at 11:00 am local time (8:00 pm spanish time) and a night session beginning at 6:00 pm local time (3:00 am Spanish time).
Catch All the Action
Tennis fans can follow all the action from Indian Wells 2022 live and in full through DAZN. Marca.com will also provide thorough coverage of the tournament,including match updates,analysis of the spanish players’ performances,and insights into the favorites. [[3]]
Indian Wells Preview: A Champion’s Return and a Nation’s Missed Chance
Welcome back, tennis fanatics! We’re heating up for a thrilling fortnight in the California desert as the BNP Paribas Open, also known as the Indian Wells Masters 1000, returns. joining me today is former Wimbledon champion and respected tennis analyst, Mats Wilander, to break down the tournament, discuss the biggest storylines, and maybe even spark a little debate.
Mats, thanks for joining us. Let’s start with the elephant in the room: Novak Djokovic’s absence. His vaccination status, unluckily, keeps him out of both Indian Wells and Miami. How does this impact the men’s draw, and who benefits from his absence?
Mats: Thanks for having me. Look, it’s a shame we won’t see Novak competing. Indian Wells deserves to have the world’s best players, and he’s certainly one of them.His absence definitely opens the door for others. Someone like Rafael Nadal, already on an remarkable winning streak, becomes the clear favorite. But don’t count out the young guns like Carlos Alcaraz.He’s hungry and playing with a fearlessness that’s exciting to see.
You mentioned Nadal’s winning streak. 15 wins in a row, three titles already this year – it’s truly remarkable. Can he keep this momentum going at Indian Wells?
Absolutely.Momentum is a powerful force in tennis. Nadal is playing with confidence and rediscovered his “fighter” spirit. He looks fit, focused, and his serve is looking more hazardous than ever. If he maintains this level, he’s definitely the player to beat.
But it’s not just Nadal, is it? Spain has a strong contingent this year with seven other men competing, including veterans like Pablo Carreño Busta and rising stars like Alcaraz. What are your thoughts on this Spanish dominance?
It’s fantastic for Spanish tennis. It shows the depth of talent they have. Each player brings something unique to the court, from Alcaraz’s explosive talent to Carreño Busta’s consistent baseline game. it’ll be interesting to see how they fare against the rest of the field.
Let’s shift gears to the women’s draw. Paula Badosa, the defending champion, is back. Can she repeat her success?
Badosa is a formidable player, and she’s proven she can handle the pressure of big tournaments. But the women’s tour is incredibly competitive right now.Igar Świątek looks unstoppable, and other players like Aryna Sabalenka and Jessica pegula are in grate form. Badosa will need to be at her absolute best to defend her title.
Mats, for our readers out there, who are your dark horse picks for both the men’s and women’s titles?
On the men’s side, keep an eye on Jannik Sinner. He’s got the power and the potential to make a deep run. In the women’s draw, I like Daria Kasatkina. She’s playing with a lot of confidence and loves the hard courts.
Thanks, Mats, for your insightful analysis. It promises to be a thrilling fortnight in Indian Wells. What are your thoughts, readers? Who do you have winning it all? Let’s have a lively discussion in the comments below!
