Iga Swiatek is the world No. 1 and received the Sunshine Double final yr–back-to-back 1000-point titles in Indian Wells and Miami. For good motive, Swiatek is a substantial favourite to triumph as soon as once more on the BNP Paribas Open.
The highest-seeded Pole has been dominant at occasions within the early phases this season, however she misplaced to Elena Rybakina within the Australian Open fourth spherical and is coming off a 6-4, 6-2 setback by the hands of Barbora Krejcikova within the Dubai closing. Swiatek can’t be thought of an absolute lock to triumph within the desert.
If she does falter, listed here are three different contenders who may raise the trophy.
Coco Gauff
Gauff has not but received a Grand Slam or a Premier 1000-point match. She’s not precisely overdue at 18 years outdated, however contemplating she’s been regarded as a contender for some time now it’s time for her to get going. That point could possibly be now. Gauff might not be on fireplace in the intervening time, however she on the aspect of the draw reverse Swiatek and she or he is no less than enjoying properly to make the most of situations in Indian Wells which can be excellent for her recreation.
Victoria Azarenka
At 33 years outdated, Azarenka truly isn’t that far previous her prime. In reality, she simply made it to the Australian Open semifinals. She additionally completed runner-up in Indian Wells solely two years in the past (17 months, to be actual, because it was within the fall in 2021). Furthermore, Azarenka is a two-time champion of this match. She is in a comparatively mushy quarter of the bracket and wouldn’t run into Swiatek till the semifinals. The Belarusian is 50/1 to win the BNP Paribas title, which is totally outrageous. She ought to be among the many favorites.
Maria Sakkari
As featured on Break Level, Sakkari made a powerful run to the Indian Wells closing final season earlier than succumbing to Swiatek. Can the Greek go all the way in which this time? Why not? She recorded back-to-back semifinal performances in Linz and Doha final month and has a good Indian Wells draw reverse Swiatek (additionally wouldn’t face Gauff till the semifinals).
Ricky contributes to 10sballs.com and likewise maintains his personal tennis web site, The Grandstand. You possibly can observe him on Twitter at @Dimonator.
