A Memorable Tennis Experience at the BNP Paribas Open

The Evolution of Professional Tennis and the BNP Paribas Open

Professional tennis has undergone a remarkable transformation since the dawn of the open era over four decades ago. The sport now enjoys prime-time broadcasts on major networks and even boasts a dedicated 24/7 tennis cable channel. Amidst this growth, the BNP Paribas Open has emerged as a standout event in the tennis calendar.

Initially known as the Pilot Pen, the tournament has become a staple of the Southern California desert, situated approximately 100 miles from Los Angeles. The BNP Paribas Open is not just a sporting event; it's a celebration of tennis that attracts fans from all over the world to Indian Wells each March.

A Family Affair: Our Personal Journey to Indian Wells

As a lifelong tennis player with a family of avid fans, our annual pilgrimage to Indian Wells has become a cherished tradition. The BNP Paribas Open is the largest combined ATP World Tour and WTA Tour event outside the four Grand Slams: the Australian Open, the French Open, Wimbledon, and the U.S. Open. Spanning two weeks, the tournament features a 96-player singles draw and a 32-team doubles draw, showcasing the crème de la crème of the tennis world.

Tennis Legends and Rising Stars

Over the years, the event has been graced by tennis greats such as Roger Federer, Pete Sampras, Andre Agassi, Steffi Graf, the Williams sisters, Rafael Nadal, and Maria Sharapova. Multiple-time champions include Jimmy Connors, Michael Chang, and the unparalleled Federer.

During our last visit, my daughters, who compete in USTA amateur tournaments, had the opportunity to get up close with their favorite players. They encountered stars like Andy Roddick, Justine Henin, the Bryan Brothers, Jelena Jankovic, and Caroline Wozniacki, securing photos and autographs.

A New Era Under BNP Paribas

The tournament, previously known as the Pacific Life Open, welcomed BNP Paribas as its title sponsor following the acquisition of the event and its venue, the Indian Wells Tennis Garden, by Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison in December 2009. This partnership has only enhanced the prestige and global reach of the event.

The Tournament Experience

Our first day was spent on the outer courts, where we watched players practice and prepare for their matches. The following days were a spectator's delight, as we took our seats in the stadium to witness the world's best male and female players compete. The women's main draw typically commences on Wednesday, with the men's following on Thursday, culminating in the finals on the second Sunday.

Why You Should Visit the BNP Paribas Open

For tennis fans or those looking to immerse themselves in a top-tier sporting event, the Indian Wells Tennis Garden is an unmissable destination. With its stunning desert backdrop and array of activities, it's the perfect addition to any Palm Springs vacation.

Interesting Stats and Facts

• The BNP Paribas Open is often referred to as the "fifth Grand Slam" due to its popularity and prestige.
• The Indian Wells Tennis Garden boasts the second-largest tennis stadium in the world, with a capacity of over 16,000 spectators.
• In 2019, the tournament set a record attendance with over 475,000 visitors across the event's duration. Source: BNP Paribas Open Official Website
• The economic impact of the BNP Paribas Open on the Coachella Valley is significant, contributing an estimated $406 million annually. Source: Greater Palm Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau

Whether you're a seasoned tennis aficionado or a newcomer to the sport, the BNP Paribas Open promises an unforgettable experience filled with athletic prowess and desert charm.