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The BNP Paribas Open kicked off this week with a bang, as star-studded talent from around the world converged on the Indian Wells Tennis Garden for what promises to be some of the great tennis played on tour all year.
So, while Venus and Serena Williams take center stage, and Novak Djokovic tries to defend his title, people forget there are many other amazing things to do at “The Garden” this week.
The sights and sounds of the BNP Paribas Open are evident everywhere; from the restaurants, to flowing champagne, to kid’s games, ball boys and girls, and much more.
The Practice Grounds for tournament players sometimes become the setting for pickup football games.
For starters, no tennis tournament can run efficiently without plenty of ball boys and ball girls. At the BNP Paribas Open, kids travel from around the country to get their shot at being close to the top players. The kids have their own “clubhouse” at the edge of the West parking lot that includes snacks, plenty of banter, and table tennis to keep them busy when they are not on the court.
“Working this tournament is a blast,” said Benson VanLeeuwen, who travelled with his Mom, Liz, from Salt Lake City to be a part of the action.
The Bryan Brothers, Mike and Bob, entertained BNP Paribas Open fans on March 10.
Of course, the tournament players get treated like Kings and Queens, but no area they have access to is more impressive than the Practice Grounds. Located on the southwest corner of The Garden, you can find players out there clowning around with their strength and conditioning coaches, or playing football or soccer with their friends and competitors. It’s a great spot to snap some up-close photos of the players.
While food is available everywhere, one of the more impressive spots at the tournament is the Moet & Chandon hospitality area located smack-dab in the middle of the tennis grounds. The area is classy, creative, and has the feel of a big-time VIP area. It’s a great place to relax and have a sip of champagne.
How about a glass of champagne at the Moet & Chandon hospitality area.
Right directly across the lawn from the Moet & Chandon area is the Jumbotrons, where you can watch three matches at once. Lawn chairs and umbrellas decorate this fabulous viewing area and make it easy for you to enjoy an afternoon or evening of tennis.
If you happen to be out at the tournament Thursday night, you got to see the Bryan Brothers – Mike and Bob – along with their father Wayne entertain the crowds with some great live music. Besides being the greatest doubles team ever, the Bryan Brothers Band is something special to see. Their unique blend of rock and roll had the place going crazy.
This is just a sprinkling of the activities available at the BNP Paribas Open. In addition, there is a state-of-the-art Sports Bar, plenty of shopping, and some specialty drink stations that will wet your whistle for certain.
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