As the round of 16 is underway at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells and every day more players are packing up to try their luck in Miami, the California desert holds a special place in their calendars and hearts. The crowds have made players from all over the world feel welcome and like they have a home crowd cheering them on, regardless of global politics.
Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus, a finalist here in 2023, remarked, “If you’re talking about atmosphere, I definitely feel like home here. I feel all the support. I really enjoy playing in front of the people here. I’d say it feels like home.”
Mirra Andreeva, the seventeen-year-old Russian feels the love as well, though she did seem perplexed about how Americans have had the chance to get to know her so fast, “I don’t know why, but I have a lot of people that are supporting me. Something about the United States is people are so energetic, and when I play a match and some people are supporting me, I just kind of feel their energy. It kind of lights me up a little bit, and after, it’s actually a bit easier to play.”
While U.S. domestic and foreign policy has changed significantly since last year’s tournament, the international players visiting have felt great support, irrespective of the flags they play under. Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina told media that her experience in the U.S. this trip has been one of gratitude, “Just based on a personal experience that I’ve had here. Also the massive support that I got, taking in consideration that I played three American girls back-to-back-to-back. It’s amazing, really special to get that, taking into consideration, you know, all the stress that all Ukrainians are facing right now back at home.”
Donna Vekic has also grown quite fond of California. She is coached by Sascha Bajin, but has also become close with Pam Shriver, who lives in Los Angeles. The Croatian said, “I actually did my pre-season last year in LA, so it does feel a little bit at home.” She added, “I never had really good results in the desert, but looks like that’s changing this year.”
On Wednesday, Vekic will play American Madison Keys for a spot in the quarterfinals. Sabalenka takes on British lucky loser Sonay Kartal. Andreeva and Svitolina will play their first-ever match against each other in the quarterfinal Thursday.
Women’s Tennis Blog