5 Things to Watch on Friday

1.

Salute to Heroes: Make your way to Stadium 1 before the first match of the evening session for the annual Salute to Heroes ceremony. The reception will recognize veterans, military personnel and first responders in honoring their service to our country. All active military, veterans and first responders with valid ID receive two complimentary tickets to the evening session. This is always a very special moment of the tournament.

2.

BNP Paribas Open Pickleball Challenge: Join us at the Tennis Warehouse Demo Court for a Pickleball Challenge presented by the tournament, FILA, Tennis Warehouse and HEAD. Stop by at 2:00 pm to watch World No. 11 Marin Cilic and other pros try their hand at pickleball, followed by fan participation in king-of-the-hill style competition.

3.

Tennis Talk with Mark Woodforde: Come on out to the Village Stage at 12:30pm and get to know former doubles world No. 1 and 12-time Grand Slam doubles title winner Mark Woodforde! Best known for his illustrious career as one half of “The Woodies” alongside partner Todd Woodbridge, Woodforde will discuss the hottest topics of the tournament alongside Tennis Channel’s Steve Weissman.

4.

Taylor Fritz vs Steve Johnson: Two local Southern-Californians take to the court on Friday in what’s sure to be a matchup of fan favorites. In one corner is Taylor Fritz, who will be looking to continue a strong start to his 2019 season that has included victories over John Isner and Gael Monfils, as well as an ATP Challenger Tour title. On the other side, fellow countryman Steve Johnson will look to play spoiler. Johnson is widely considered one of the most decorated collegiate tennis players of all time with four NCAA Division 1 championships, as well as owning four ATP Challenger Tour titles.

5.

Serena Williams vs Victoria Azarenka: In the premier matchup of the day’s WTA action, 23-time Grand Slam singles champion Serena Williams begins her run to the title against two-time BNP Paribas Open champion Victoria Azarenka. The last time these two met on court was at the 2016 finals here in Indian Wells – don’t miss any of the action Friday night on Stadium 1!