As we come closer towards the Indian Wells 2021, the excitement about the tournament in the Californian desert is building up, for fans and players alike. It is one of the most anticipated events and all the top players from the men’s and women’s circuits compete for the honors.

While the Indian Wells was canceled last season due to the global pandemic, it has made its return to the tennis calendar this season, but not without the COVID-led changes.

After all the necessary changes, the Indian Wells 2021 is set to kick off smoothly. Organizers have ensured that fans can attend matches to witness their favorite players in action; however, ensuring the health and safety of everyone associated with the event is a top priority. 

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Strict protocols to be followed at Indian Wells 2021

In order for anyone to enter Indian Wells, individuals will require to show valid proof of full vaccination against the coronavirus by acquiring a digital health pass. Children under 12 years of age will not be granted permission into the Indian Wells Tennis Garden.

To keep all individuals as safe as possible, no exceptions to this policy will be allowed. All tournament volunteers, staff, sponsors, media, and vendors will have to be fully vaccinated in accordance with this policy.

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This season there have been a number of tournaments in which organizers have allowed the entry of fans. However, not many events asked fans to produce vaccination certificates. Given the way this virus is hitting in waves, this could be the new way moving forward in the coming months. 

Several big names absent

The Indian Wells 2021 is scheduled to take place from October 4 to 17. Unfortunately, some of the big names, like Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, are not going to be seen in the men’s draw. The Swiss ace and the Spanish star decided to end their seasons earlier last month, with both suffering from long-term injuries. 

In the women’s draw, star players like Serena Williams and Naomi Osaka are not going to be seen. Williams has not featured in a competitive match since her Wimbledon Championships exit, and even skipped the US Open due to a hamstring injury. As far as the Japanese star is concerned, she felt that she needed a break from tennis. 

On the brighter side, star players like Daniil Medvedev and Alexander Zverev will be headlining the men’s competition. In the women’s half, Bianca Andreescu, Garbine Muguruza, and Aryna Sabalenka will be competing for the title. 

The quality of tennis will surely be top-notch and the matches will get intense as the tournament goes on. It will be interesting to see which players go deep and reach the distance. 

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