(Indian Wells) Quebecer Félix Auger-Aliassime is one of five representatives of the maple leaf who confirmed Wednesday their participation in the Indian Wells tournament, which will take place later this spring.
Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal were injured during the Australian Open last month, and Djokovic’s COVID-19 vaccination status continues to be a barrier to his participation in the tournament, which takes place March 6-19 in the Australian Open. southern California.
Djokovic, a five-time winner in the Californian desert, missed the tournament last year because of his vaccination status. The United States is expected to abolish its emergency measures to fight the coronavirus on May 11, long after the tournament has ended.
The Serb won the Australian Open last month, claiming his 22e career major title, despite a hamstring injury. He is now back at No. 1 in the world. For his part, Nadal suffered a hip injury during his second-round defeat at Melbourne Park, and he could be sidelined for two months.
World No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz, who reached the final last year, is set to return to action at Indian Wells after missing the Australian Open through injury. Other headliners entered in the tournament include Stefanos Tsitsipas (noh 3), Casper Ruud (noh 4), Andrey Rublev (noh 5), Auger-Aliassime (noh 7), Holger Rune (noh 9) and Hubert Hurkacz (noh 10).
Ontario’s Denis Shapovalov, currently in action at the Dallas Open, as well as Australian Nick Kyrgios and Britain’s Andy Murray, are also entered.
For his part, the American Taylor Fritz will try to defend his title acquired in 2022.
Among the ladies, the favorite Iga Swiatek will be back to try to defend her title. She will be accompanied by Australian Open champion and world No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka.
Ons Jabeur (noh 3), Jessica Pegula (no 4), Caroline Garcia (noh 5) and Coco Gauff (noh 6) are also listed. Quebecer Leylah Annie Fernandez, Ontarian Bianca Andreescu, who triumphed in Indian Wells in 2019, and British Columbian Rebecca Marino have also confirmed their participation in the tournament.
The last available places in the main draw will be distributed to the winners of the qualifying tournaments and to those who obtain invitations. Announcements to this effect will come at a later date.