The smile is her trademark. No matter the moment in a tennis season, Aryna Sabalenka approaches every challenge with renewed expectations.
Those expectations currently position her as a strong favorite for the upcoming WTA 1000 event in Indian Wells. “I’m super happy to be back at Tennis Paradise, it’s a really beautiful place. I really missed playing, so I can’t wait to play my first match here,” Sabalenka said, preparing for her second-round debut against the winner of the match between American Alycia Parks and a qualifier.
After a month of rest, the world No. 1 appears eager to compete. “I’m focused on the things I need to do on court, how to develop my game, basically, how to improve,” she stated.
Sabalenka acknowledges areas for improvement, carrying some lingering challenges from the previous season. But, she views each year as a fresh start. “I’m trying to be as good as possible in every match I play, without focusing on the points to defend or what happened last year,” she added.
A potential shift in the format of women’s tennis – the adoption of five-set matches – is something Sabalenka believes would significantly benefit her chances of adding to her Grand Slam tally. “If we finally did that, I feel like I would probably have more Grand Slams. I feel like I’m physically very strong, I’m pretty sure my body could handle that, so hopefully it happens. It would be a lot of physical work for all the players, but this is sport and we should worry about ourselves. If we do, I really think I have an advantage.”
Return to Indian Wells
Sabalenka returns to the BNP Paribas Open, the third WTA 1000 event of the season, with all Top 10 players in the PIF WTA Rankings participating. This marks her first competitive action since the Australian Open. The tournament, held at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden, begins on Wednesday, March 4, 2026. [1]
The Belarusian’s impressive run in Australia – including a title in Brisbane and a runner-up finish at the Australian Open – preceded her decision to skip the Middle East swing. Her form upon her return to the desert is a key storyline for the tournament. [1]
Other notable players returning to Indian Wells include Naomi Osaka, the 2018 champion, and Madison Keys. [1]
Sabalenka’s Path in Indian Wells
Currently ranked No. 1, a position she’s held for 80 weeks, Sabalenka’s section of the draw includes Amanda Anisimova as the second-highest seed. Victoria Mboko, recently entering the Top 10, and Osaka as well feature in this quarter. [1]
Sabalenka recently defeated McCartney Kessler 7-6 (4), 6-3 to advance to the third round of the Indian Wells WTA 1000 on Saturday, March 7, 2026. She will next face Italian Lucia Bronzetti. [4] She dominated Kessler, hitting six aces and winning an impressive 86 percent of points on her first serve. [4] “It was a great match, and just super happy to win this tough second round,” Sabalenka said after the match. [4]
The Belarusian acknowledged the unique atmosphere of Indian Wells, comparing it to a Grand Slam event. “Indian Wells feels like Grand Slam and, like, back to back Indian Wells, Miami. I love this tournament. For me feels pretty huge,” she explained. [1] She also addressed the challenges of competing after a period of rest, noting that the Middle East swing can be particularly demanding physically and mentally. [1]
Aryna Sabalenka has achieved significant success in her career, currently holding the No. 1 ranking in women’s singles and previously reaching No. 1 in doubles. She has won 22 WTA Tour-level singles titles, including two Australian Open titles and two US Open titles, as well as nine WTA 1000 events. [2] She also has six doubles titles, including the 2019 US Open and 2021 Australian Open, partnering with Elise Mertens. [2]
The debate surrounding best-of-five set matches in women’s tennis continues, with Sabalenka firmly advocating for the change. Her confidence in her physical capabilities suggests she believes the longer format would play to her strengths. The potential impact on the overall competitive landscape of the women’s game remains a topic of discussion among players and fans alike.
All the action from the Masters 1000 in Indian Wells can be followed LIVE on Disney+ Plan Premium.
Next Up: Sabalenka will face Lucia Bronzetti in the third round of the Indian Wells WTA 1000 on Monday, March 9, 2026. [4]
What are your thoughts on Sabalenka’s chances in Indian Wells? Do you agree with her stance on five-set matches in women’s tennis? Share your opinions in the comments below!
