Indian Wells Open 2026: Schedule, Draw, Tickets and Updates

The Indian Wells Open 2026, also known as the BNP Paribas Open, began with qualifying matches from March 1–3, 2026, while the main draw runs from March 4 to March 15, 2026. The two-week combined event features both men’s and women’s competitions and is one of the most significant tournaments outside the four Grand Slams.

Held at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden in California, the tournament is classified as an ATP (Association of Tennis Professionals) Masters 1000 event on the men’s tour and a WTA (Women’s Tennis Association) 1000 event on the women’s circuit. With 1000 ranking points awarded to the singles champions, Indian Wells plays a major role in shaping early-season rankings and momentum ahead of the clay-court swing.

Tournament Schedule of Indian Wells 2026

Here’s how the tournament is structured:

1. March 1–3: Men’s & Women’s Qualifying
2. March 4–5: Round 1
3. March 6–7: Round 2
4. March 8–9: Round 3
5. March 10–11: Round of 16
6. March 12: Quarterfinals
7. March 13: Women’s Singles Semifinals & Men’s Doubles Semifinals
8. March 14: Men’s Singles Semifinals & Women’s Doubles Final
9. March 15: Men’s & Women’s Singles Finals

Matches follow a session-based structure:

1. Day session – 11:00 AM local (around 12:30–1:30 AM IST, next day)
2. Evening session – 6:00 PM local (around 7:30–8:30 AM IST, next day)

Indian viewers can expect late-night and early-morning matches, especially during the final weekend.

Read More: Australian Open Tennis Final 2026

Draw Format and Structure

Both ATP and WTA singles events feature a 96-player draw, making Indian Wells one of the largest tournaments outside the majors.

Key details:

1. The top 32 seeds receive a first-round bye
2. Seeded players enter directly in Round 2
3. Doubles draws consist of 32 teams

This format creates a competitive early phase, as unseeded players and qualifiers battle for the chance to face top-ranked stars in the second round. With 1000 ranking points available to the singles champions, the tournament plays a major role in shaping the rankings before the clay-court season begins.

Tickets and Broadcast Details

Tickets are available through the official tournament portal and its ticketing partner AXS.

Here’s a simplified price overview:

1. Grounds Pass (Qualifying Days): From $10 (approx. ₹830)
   Provides access to outer courts and practice sessions.
2. Single Session Reserved Tickets:
   Typically range from $40–$150+ (approx. ₹3,300–₹12,500+), depending on the round and stadium.
3. Daily Double (Day + Night Session):
   Starts around $75+ (approx. ₹6,200+) depending on availability.
4. Premium & Hospitality Packages:
   Can exceed $500 (₹41,000+), offering premium seating and exclusive experiences.

Weekend sessions and later rounds usually see high demand, so early booking is recommended.

For viewers in India and the Indian subcontinent, ATP matches from the tournament are expected to be available for live streaming on FanCode, which holds digital rights for ATP Tour events in the region. Fans can also follow men’s matches globally on Tennis TV and women’s matches on WTA TV (subject to regional availability). Live scores, draws, and updates are available through the official BNP Paribas Open website and mobile app.

Players to Watch in Indian Wells 2026

World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz leads the men’s draw, while five-time Indian Wells champion Novak Djokovic is expected to feature as he looks to add another title in the desert.

On the women’s side, World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka headlines a strong lineup that includes Iga Świątek, Coco Gauff and Elena Rybakina. Defending champion Mirra Andreeva returns, aiming to build on last season’s breakthrough performance.

Wild cards and qualifiers are once again expected to add unpredictability to the two-week spectacle.

Why Indian Wells is Special

Often referred to as “Tennis Paradise,” Indian Wells combines world-class facilities with a scenic desert backdrop. The venue features one of the largest tennis stadiums outside the Grand Slams.

The slow, hard courts typically produce long rallies and tactical battles, rewarding consistency and physical endurance. That’s why results here are often seen as a strong indicator of form heading into the next phase of the season.

The event is also part of the “Sunshine Double” alongside Miami, making it one of the most important stretches in early-season tennis.

Download Playo on Android or iOS, or visit playo.co to start playing!

Frequently Asked Questions