Naomi Osaka, Novak Djokovic and Stan Wawrinka in BNP Paribas Open Entry List, Serena Williams Out

With the US Open coming to an end, all eyes will soon turn to the Indian Wells. Following the release of its entry list on Wednesday, fans rejoiced over a few entrees. However, a familiar name in its absentee list disappointed fans worldwide. Headline the action at the BNP Paribas Open are stars like Novak Djokovic, Stan Wawrinka, and Naomi Osaka. However, missing out once again is the American legend, Serena Williams.

After being called off twice recently, the BNP Paribas Open is finally scheduled to kick-start this fall. However, with its entry list out, fans were thoroughly disappointed at not finding Serena’s name in there.

Nevertheless, the star-studded line-up includes the likes of Novak Djokovic, Alexander Zverev, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Naomi Osaka, Ashleigh Barty, and many more.

Serena Williams out

39-year-old Williams is suffering from a torn hamstring that saw her rest out the 2021 US Open. Courtesy of the infamous Wimbledon setback, Serena is yet to play a competitive game of tennis. However, it won’t be happening anytime this year, as the American announced her decision to spend the rest of the 2021 season on the sidelines.

As a result, released on Wednesday, the entry list to the Indian Wells did not have Serena’s name in it.

Regardless, fans are excited about the return of a star that had been left on the sidelines because of a foot injury. Swiss international, and former World No. 3, Stan Wawrinka, is scheduled to return to the sport at the BNP Paribas Open.

However, another name that raised questions was the involvement of 4-time majors champion Naomi Osaka. After her shocking exit from the 2021 US Open, the defending champion announced a break from the sport. Hence, her appearance remains in doubt.

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What happened to Naomi Osaka?

Naomi Osaka has a rich history at the Indian Wells. She burst onto the scene from here, winning her first title in 2018. However, her participation in this year’s edition of the tournament hangs in the balance. After a surprise defeat at the hands of teenager Leylah Fernandez at the US Open, Naomi revealed her intentions of taking yet another break from tennis, this time uncertain of a return.

Undoubtedly, fans are sure to miss the two American favorites. However, they continue to hope for a quick return, possibly ahead of the Australian Open 2022.

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