The 2026 BNP Paribas Open will begin on March 4 in Indian Wells, California, and the tennis world is gearing up for a competitive first big event of the season. Analysts from the Tennis Channel have identified several players they expect to make an impact during the Sunshine Swing.
Among the top players highlighted, former world No.1 Iga Swiatek stands out as the most compelling contender. Commentators believe Swiatek’s powerful baseline game and experience in challenging conditions could propel her deep into the draw. They point to her past successes on hard courts and her ability to handle wind or night play as reasons she could be a major factor in this year’s tournament.
Source: Trouw
The analysts also noted that almost every top player in both the ATP and WTA fields has shown the ability to contend at a high level early in 2026. Swiatek, in particular, appears poised to use Indian Wells as a springboard for a strong season.
Other players receiving attention include a mix of established stars and rising talents, each with their own narratives entering the event. The BNP Paribas Open is the first combined Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 tournament of the year, offering a key benchmark before the tour moves deeper into the season’s marquee events.
