Tennis is in full bloom here in the Coachella Valley as the annual BNP Paribas Tournament returns to the Tennis Garden in nearby Indian Wells. Dubbed “The 5th Major” by tennis aficionados, the BNP brings fans and big-name players for two full weeks of excitement. This year’s players include greats like Venus and Serena Williams, Roger Federer, and Rafael Nadal.
The event (which kicked off Monday, March 5th) includes qualifying rounds for both men and women leading up to the finals on Sunday, March 18th. While tennis is naturally the main event, there are plenty of other activities to experience at the Tennis Gardens. Tennis stars will be on hand to sign autographs, there is an interactive experience in the retail courtyard complete with virtual reality, and live music happens almost daily. Moet and Chandon will set up their annual champagne bar for visitors to relax, unwind, and sip on some bubbles between matches.
If you are not a tennis fan, you can still enjoy an afternoon or evening taking in a match or two. A few things to know as you watch:
● Each player has a maximum of one bounce after the ball is hit by their opponent to return the ball.
● If the ball bounces more than once, is not returned within the boundaries, or is not returned at all the opponent earns a point.
● The goal is to win enough games to win a set and enough sets to win a match.
● The first person to win 6 games wins the set, and typically matches are the best of 3 or the best of 5
If you plan to attend a match you’ll want to remember a few things before you go:
● There is not a lot of shade, and you will be sitting in direct sun for a few hours. Bring plenty of sunscreen and a hat.
● Drink plenty of water during the day, although this year’s temperatures should be pretty mild the desert is dehydrating!
● Light colors will keep you the coolest and don’t forget a light layer for evening matches.
● No ice chests or outside food/beverage is allowed, but there are plenty of delightful options once you arrive!
Tickets are available by visiting the BNP Paribas website: bnpparibasopen.com
Written by Nicole Bowen of The Darling Niki
Photo in header of post from BNP Paribas