The women’s singles draw for 2024 Indian Wells was revealed on Monday. While Poland’s Iga Swiatek took the top billing, Belarus’ Aryna Sabalenka is the second seed followed by reigning US Open champion Coco Gauff. Meanwhile, Jessica Pegula has been seeded fifth bolstering the American dream at the WTA Masters.
Seven-time singles Grand Slam champion and legend Venus Williams has also made a comeback to the tour, although unseeded. The 43-year-old has been given a wildcard entry into the main drawn. With Williams’ return, the American contingent has definitely strengthened.
Williams will open her campaign against a qualifier. The 43-year-old (if she wins her opening match) will meet Veronika Kudermetova in the second round. Although it would be really tough for Williams to go past the Russian, the seven-time champion will fancy her chances.
However, going past the third round will be a herculean task for the 43-year-old considering the fact that Williams has not played since the 2023 US Open. She will be facing most probably Ons Jabeur and beating the Tunisian won’t be easy for her.
Jessica Pegula and Coco Gauff enter with burden of expectations
While fans will want Venus Williams to enjoy her comeback and won’t be expecting too much from the veteran, Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegual will be definitely expected to go as deep as possible. Both players have been given a bye in the first round.
In the second round, while Gauff might meet either Xiyu Wang or Clara Burel in her first match at 2024 Indian Wells, Pegula will be waiting for the winner of the match between Anna Blinkova and Karolina Pliskova. The American will be hoping for a win considering her head-to-head record against both players.
In the third round, Pegula might meet Leylah Fernandez and if she manages to beat the Canadian, the 29-year-old might have to face Caroline Garcia or Maria Sakkari in the pre-quarterfinals. For Coco Gauff, reaching the quarterfinals should not be that tough. The 19-year-old is expected to reach the semifinals with ease too.
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