7 top players who will not compete in Indian Wells this year

Indian Wells, popularly known as tennis paradise, will begin next week. The combined ATP and WTA event saw two surprise champions last year in Cameron Norrie and Paula Badosa.

Norrie faced Nikoloz Basilashvili in last year’s final in Indian Wells. The Georgian took the opening set 6-3 but Norrie won the next two sets 6-4, 6-1 to win the biggest title of his career so far.

On the other end, Paula Badosa beat Victoria Azarenka in a tightly-contested encounter to win the first WTA 1000 title of her career.

A number of top players will be competing at Indian Wells this year. In the men’s tournament, Rafael Nadal is a heavy favorite to win given his recent run of form. However, the likes of Daniil Medvedev, Alexander Zverev and Stefanos Tsitsipas can also compete for the men’s title.

Barbora Krejcikova, Aryna Sabalenka, defending champion Badosa and reigning Qatar Open champion Iga Swiatek all have a shot at the women’s title as well.

Indian Wells has a sparser entry list this year

While many top players are participating in 1000 series event in Indian Wells, there are some big names who will not feature in the tournament due to fitness or other reasons. Some of these players are legends of the game and their absence will no doubt be felt.

So without any further ado, let us take a look at the seven players who will not compete in the Indian Wells Masters.