Indian Wells: A Celebration of Equal Pay and Player Experience in Tennis

A Pioneer in Prize Parity

The BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells isn't just a prestigious tennis tournament; it's a symbol of equality. For 15 years, it has championed equal prize money, a milestone reached in 2009. This commitment positions Indian Wells as a leader in the fight for fairness in professional tennis, offering equal compensation for both men and women competitors.

In 2025, the tournament boasted a total prize pool exceeding $8.9 million, with the champion taking home a cool $1,201,125—a significant increase from the previous year. This financial commitment underscores Indian Wells' dedication to rewarding its athletes equally, regardless of gender.

"We don’t make a difference between the men and the women—whether it’s the order of play, the court assignment, or the size of the locker," says Philippe Dore, CMO of the BNP Paribas Open. "Equal pay has been at our core since 2009. That’s our product, and we love that.”

The Legacy of Billie Jean King

The fight for equal pay in tennis has deep roots, with Billie Jean King as a pivotal figure. Her relentless advocacy in 1973 for equal prize money at the U.S. Open laid the groundwork for change. King's vision, further solidified with the founding of the Women's Tennis Association (WTA), resonates strongly with Indian Wells' commitment to equality.

2018 BNP Paribas Open champion Naomi Osaka echoes this sentiment, stating, "I think it’s really important for women athletes and women’s sports to continue the conversation." Osaka’s words highlight the ongoing need to advocate for pay equity, ensuring that the progress made isn't lost.

While significant strides have been made, challenges remain. Osaka notes the cyclical nature of these discussions, emphasizing the importance of consistent dialogue to maintain momentum in achieving true equality.

The Indian Wells Experience: A Player's Paradise

Beyond its commitment to equal pay, Indian Wells shines in its dedication to player experience. Considered the "gold standard" by many athletes, the tournament offers luxurious amenities and fosters a strong sense of community.

World No. 3 Coco Gauff praises the tournament's player-centric approach, highlighting the "spacious field area and an upstairs gaming zone." Gauff further emphasizes the significance of competing on the "same stadium, same court as the men," and receiving comparable viewership. For Gauff, this demonstrates true equality in action.

The WTA's Vision: Equal Pay for All

Indian Wells sets a powerful precedent, but the WTA is striving for universal equality. With an ambitious plan to achieve equal prize money at all WTA 1000 and 500 combined events by 2027, and at all single-week WTA 1000 and 500 events by 2033, the organization is committed to a future of fairness.

WTA CEO Portia Archer emphasizes the "sense of opportunity" that equal prize money provides, referencing Naomi Osaka's 2018 Indian Wells victory as a prime example. Archer also highlights the WTA's focus on improving infrastructure and player experience, ensuring a level playing field for all competitors.

A Legacy of Equality

Indian Wells' 15-year commitment to equal prize money is not just a celebration of the past, but a blueprint for the future. It highlights the power of tournaments to enact positive change, ensuring equal recognition, rewards, and opportunities for all athletes.

Investing in equality is not merely symbolic; it's a strategic decision that strengthens the sport and inspires future generations. Indian Wells exemplifies this principle, showcasing the impact of a level playing field in fostering a more equitable and thriving tennis landscape.