The Coronado Times attended session 11 today at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, California. It’s just a few hours from Coronado and if you enjoy tennis, get tickets and get out to the desert before the tournament ends March 15. It’s very popular. Last week, March 6 attendance of 58,828 set a new single day tournament record.
The weather, the players, the shops, the food, the music, and especially the vibe, were definitely a 10 out of 10. It continues to deliver and is absolutely the 5th slam of tennis.
Here are a few photos of “tennis paradise” that we shot around the BNP today:
Novak Djokovic won his match on Stadium 1 today vs. Aleksandar Kovacevic: 6-4, 1-6, 6-4. “Joker” has won this tournament five times and is the holder of 24 grand slams. He is tied with Roger Federer for the all-time record for most singles titles at the tournament, with his victories occurring in 2008, 2011, 2014, 2015, and 2016.A beautiful day to watch tennis in Indian Wells – tennis paradise! This view is of Stadium 1.Mirra Andreeva won this tournament last year. Unfortunately, she lost today against Katerina Siniakova 6-4, 6-7, 3-6.Andrey Rublev smashes a backhand on the practice courts. The easiest way for all ticket holders to get up close!Aryna Sabalenka is the #1 player in the world and fan favorite. The practice courts are a great place to get up close to players.Fans hoping for their favorite tennis pro to come over and sign a hat or giant tennis ball.Many players enjoy playing soccer as a warm up.Bring a sharpie for player autographs or to sign the giant tennis ball on the grounds.Plenty of shady spots to enjoy lunch or a break from the action.The live music was fantastic this year!Puesto hit the spot for lunch.Many vendors offer ping pong at the event – great way to stretch your legs.If you don’t get a seat in the stadiums, you can always grab an Adirondack chair in front of the big screen.Fage had wonderful yogurt samples for free…and lots of places to get that IG photo!Desert flowers.BMW is a sponsor and has the latest models on site to check out.Many players enjoy “soccer/volleyball/tennis” in between practice sessions.Kirk and Bonnie Steele have been coming to this tennis tournament for over 25 years!Lululemon is the official apparel outfitter for the 2026 BNP Paribas Open. They have a store here, but there was a wait to get in.Lines are long, but worth the wait. Remember, you can only enter the court on a changeover when the games add up to an odd number.Pro tip: bring an empty water bottle to refill – it’s hot!
