The women’s draw for Indian Wells is a lot more difficult to predict than the men’s. That is to be expected.

Nobody is dominating the WTA. This has made for some great entertainment as of late, climaxing with Leylah Fernandez and Emma Radunacu contesting the US Open final a few weeks back. Expect more of the same at Indian Wells. The top four seeds are Pliskova (1), Swiantek (4), Krejikova (3), and Svitolina (4). Absent will be both Barty (1) and Sabalenka (2). Nothing to worry though, there’s enough star power in this tournament to keep interest in the WTA at an all-time high.

All top four seeds have a chance of winning this title. However, while the top four seeds look to make it all the way to the semifinals, there are a few players outside of the top four seeds that you should look out for.

Emma Raducanu (17)

Fresh of the US Open win, Emma will be looking to back up her performance in NY with a solid run at Indian Wells. It won’t be easy. The distractions that come from instant celebrity can be tough to deal with. On the other hand, if her tennis is anywhere as good as it was in NY three weeks ago, we’re in for a treat.

Leylah Fernandez (23)

Like Emma, Leylah had an amazing run at the US Open. Her run wasn’t as surprising as Emma’s given the fact that people have been talking about Leylah breaking out since 2019. Well, here she is, a breakout star after the US Open, and with all the confidence in the world. She’ll be ready to pick off where she left off.

Garbine Muguruza (5)

Garbine had a fantastic start to the year, followed by a slight lull. With a win in Chicago last week, Muguruza looks fantastic once again and ready for another big title. When Muguruza is playing well, it is difficult to deal with her power and coverage on a tennis court.

Simona Halep (11)

Simona has been relatively quiet, and rightly so. After a few injuries this year, she has not been herself. She is a veteran though, and if the draw opens for her, she’s got a shot at this tournament. Also, let’s not forget she is a past winner (2015).

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