Indian Wells BNP Paribas Open Boosts Mixed Doubles Prize Money

Tournament executives hope the $1 million prize will attract singles stars to the mixed doubles event.

Feb. 26, 2026 at 6:44am

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The BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, California has nearly tripled the prize money for its mixed doubles tournament, increasing the purse from $370,000 in 2025 to $1 million in 2026. Tournament officials hope this move will attract more singles players to compete in the mixed doubles event, following the example set by the 2025 US Open mixed doubles.

Why it matters

The increase in mixed doubles prize money at Indian Wells reflects a broader effort by tennis tournaments to expand the sport beyond traditional boundaries. By offering larger incentives for mixed doubles, tournaments hope to generate more fan interest and engagement during the second week of events when single-elimination draws thin out.

The details

Chief marketing officer Philippe Dore explained that the goal is to 'have more tennis' during the second week of the tournament, as the mixed doubles event starts on March 10, a week after the singles main draw begins on March 4. This strategy mirrors changes made to the 2025 US Open mixed doubles, which sparked controversy by prioritizing singles stars over traditional doubles pairings.

  • The BNP Paribas Open mixed doubles event will offer a $1 million prize in 2026, up from $370,000 in 2025 and $150,000 in 2024.
  • The 2025 US Open mixed doubles event prioritized singles stars over traditional doubles pairings, a move that drew criticism.

The players

Philippe Dore

Chief marketing officer of the BNP Paribas Open.

Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori

The only doubles-focused pair to participate in the 2025 US Open mixed doubles, which they won.

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What they’re saying

“Part of our strategy is to have more tennis, because as we know, as we go into the second week, we start losing players.”

— Philippe Dore, Chief marketing officer

“We see it as a profound injustice, that disrespect an entire category of players. Put money above tennis is never a good idea.”

— Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori

What’s next

Mixed doubles will also gain prominence at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, where it will open the Olympic tennis program.

The takeaway

The BNP Paribas Open's initiatives reflect a broader effort by tennis tournaments to expand the sport's appeal and engagement beyond traditional boundaries, combining competitive incentives with fan-focused experiences.