Story perspectives

2026 BNP Paribas Open: Alcaraz Defends Title Amid Rising Stars

3/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

The 2026 BNP Paribas Open starts March 4, 2026, in Indian Wells, California.
Eugenie Bouchard predicts Ben Shelton will excel, citing his evolving game and Dallas Open success.
American contenders include Taylor Fritz and Tommy Paul, with analysts' predictions varying.
Carlos Alcaraz enters as defending champion with a 12-0 record and titles from the Australian Open and Qatar Open, while the field includes Jannik Sinner, Novak Djokovic, and Alexander Zverev.

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Story summary

The 2026 BNP Paribas Open starts March 4, 2026, in Indian Wells, California.
Eugenie Bouchard predicts Ben Shelton will excel, citing his evolving game and Dallas Open success.
American contenders include Taylor Fritz and Tommy Paul, with analysts' predictions varying.
Carlos Alcaraz enters as defending champion with a 12-0 record and titles from the Australian Open and Qatar Open, while the field includes Jannik Sinner, Novak Djokovic, and Alexander Zverev.