The 2025 tennis season is only two months old, but it has already been filled with surprises. From the controversial suspension of world No. 1 Jannik Sinner, to Madison Keys winning her first major title at the Australian Open, to a stomach virus affecting the Acapulco tournament, and the Venus Williams wild-card situation, there’s been plenty of news.

Now, the tennis tours are heading to Indian Wells for the BNP Paribas Open, a high-level tournament that begins the Sunshine Double, followed by the Miami Open. While not every storyline can be covered, here are some of the biggest questions as we head into the 2025 BNP Paribas Open.

Who will fill the void with Jannik Sinner absent?

Jannik Sinner’s recent performance has been outstanding. In the last 14 months, he has claimed three major titles, three 1000-level events, and the ATP Finals. However, he is currently serving a doping suspension and will be out until May. Despite this, he remains significantly ahead in the rankings. His absence opens up opportunities for others, most notably Carlos Alcaraz. Alcaraz, currently ranked No. 3, is the two-time defending champion at Indian Wells. Alexander Zverev, ranked No. 2, is another contender, with a history of success at 1000-level hard-court events. Daniil Medvedev, despite past challenges at Indian Wells, cannot be overlooked. Taylor Fritz, a local favorite and 2022 champion, will also be aiming for a strong performance, provided he is healthy.

And of course, there’s Novak Djokovic, still a major force in tennis.

Madison Keys
Madison Keys will compete for the first time since her Australian Open victory in January.

Will unexpected winners continue in the women’s tournament?

After a period of predictability in women’s tennis, with Aryna Sabalenka, Iga Swiatek, and Coco Gauff leading the pack, the Australian Open saw Madison Keys triumph, highlighting the depth of talent in the WTA. Keys’ victory seemed to inspire other players, as various champions have emerged since. Amanda Anisimova and 17-year-old Mirra Andreeva have won significant titles, along with Belinda Bencic and Ekaterina Alexandrova. Jessica Pegula and Emma Navarro also recently secured titles. While the top three players haven’t dominated the recent tournaments, Iga Swiatek, the defending champion at Indian Wells, could change that. However, Keys, and other players like Anisimova, Andreeva, Pegula, Navarro, Bencic, and Elena Rybakina, are all capable of winning.

How will Novak Djokovic perform?

Novak Djokovic’s form is a major question. He retired from his Australian Open semifinal due to injury and then lost early in Doha. Despite initial statements of being near full fitness, concerns about his condition have arisen. He is still entered in Indian Wells and will be accompanied by his coach Andy Murray. Djokovic has a bye in the first round and will then face either a qualifier or Nick Kyrgios.

Despite recent results, Djokovic’s track record of 24 Grand Slam titles and 40 Masters 1000 trophies speaks for itself. He remains a top player and a contender. Another title here would make him only the third man in the Open Era to achieve 100 tour-level singles titles.

Coco Gauff
Could Coco Gauff become the first American woman to win at Indian Wells in almost 25 years?

Can an American player win the title?

It is definitely possible. In the women’s draw, there are several strong American contenders, including Coco Gauff, Jessica Pegula, and Madison Keys, all ranked in the top five. Emma Navarro, Danielle Collins, and Amanda Anisimova are also strong contenders. However, no American woman has won at Indian Wells since Serena Williams in 2001.

On the men’s side, Taylor Fritz leads the American charge, with Tommy Paul, Ben Shelton, and Frances Tiafoe also capable of strong performances. Reilly Opelka is another player to watch as he returns from injury.

Is the Sunshine Double achievable this year?

Winning both Indian Wells and Miami in the same year, known as the Sunshine Double, is a rare feat achieved by only eleven players. Iga Swiatek was the most recent player to accomplish this in 2022. The short time between the two tournaments, the travel, and the climate change make it challenging. Carlos Alcaraz came close in 2023, reaching the Miami semifinals. Both Alcaraz and Swiatek could potentially achieve the Sunshine Double in 2025, but consistency throughout the season will be key.