Postcards From Paradise, Volume. 1: Dominic & Iga Kick It On The Player Lawn

The flowers are in bloom, the players are in town and the Indian Wells Tennis Garden is buzzing with excitement for the 2023 BNP Paribas Open. But there’s more to this event than the world-class tennis played on court – here’s a snapshot of some of the cool moments happening off court and around the grounds. We’ve got you covered with our Postcards From Paradise!

Iga Swiatek & Dominic Thiem trade their racquets for soccer cleats (kind of)

Ok, maybe they weren’t wearing proper soccer attire, but the two topspin-loving Grand Slam champions took a little break from the practice courts for some pick-up soccer on the lawns of the Indian Wells Tennis Garden. Pretty sure both could have had impressive soccer careers if they weren’t already tennis aces.

SPOTTED: Monfils back on the practice courts

Well, look who it is. 👀

A fan favorite wherever he goes, talented Frenchman Gael Monfils is back in action after several months rehabbing a foot injury sustained last season. But by his own account, the injury has been a blessing in disguise, allowing him to spend more time with his newborn daughter Skaï and fellow tennis-player wife Elina Svitolina.

Snow… in the desert…?

It’s been uncharacteristically chilly (by Indian Wells standards) this year, and while it still feels every bit like Tennis Paradise at ground level, the picturesque mountains on the horizon are looking a little more alpine than usual.

Fans meeting their idols, idols meeting their fans

Where else can you get unparalleled access to practice courts, special activities and (of course) selfies with your favourite players? At the BNP Paribas Open, it’s not a rare occurrence to walk right by one of the world’s best tennis players on your way to grab a quick refreshment.

But how cute is Victoria Azarenka‘s son Leo?

We caught this adorable moment at the practice lawn on Sunday – not-so-little Leo gives his mum a kiss on the cheek after a fun soccer session to cap off a nice day of practice for the two time BNP Paribas Open champion.