BNP Paribas Open

About

The BNP Paribas Open, often called the "Fifth Slam," is a prestigious tennis tournament held annually in Indian Wells, California. It is part of both the ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 events, featuring men's and women's singles and doubles draws. The tournament takes place over two weeks in March, attracting the world's top players due to its significant prize money and high-quality field. The Indian Wells Tennis Garden, its venue, boasts a large main stadium seating over 16,000 spectators, making it one of the largest tennis-specific stadiums globally. The tournament's history dates back to 1974, initially as a men's event, before expanding to include women's tennis in 1989. It is known for offering equal prize money to both men and women, setting a benchmark for fairness in tennis. The event is a highlight of the early tennis season, offering a blend of sport, entertainment, and leisure in the picturesque California desert. With over 475,000 attendees annually, it is the most-attended tennis tournament outside the Grand Slams, solidifying its position as a premier event in the tennis world.