Road to the trophy: The top seeds’ paths at Indian Wells 2025

From Zverev’s potential showdown with Tsitsipas to Swiatek’s title defense, the top seeds face tough tests on their way to the Indian Wells trophy.

1. Alexander Zverev (Seeded No. 1)

With World No. 1 Jannik Sinner serving a three-month suspension, Alexander Zverev assumes the top seed position at Indian Wells.

Zverev’s path to the title has its challenges. A potential quarter-final clash with Stefanos Tsitsipas looms, a matchup that has historically tested Zverev’s resilience. Advancing further, he could face the winner of the Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz quarter-final, setting the stage for a thrilling semi-final.

2. Novak Djokovic (Seeded No. 6)

Novak Djokovic, in pursuit of his 100th career singles title, faces a demanding draw. A potential quarter-final against defending champion Carlos Alcaraz is on the horizon, a contest that promises high-octane tennis. Should he progress, a semi-final against top seed Alexander Zverev could be next, adding another chapter to their storied rivalry.

3. Carlos Alcaraz (Seeded No. 2)

Carlos Alcaraz aims for a historic three-peat at Indian Wells. His journey is fraught with formidable opponents, starting with a potential quarter-final against Novak Djokovic. Success there could lead to a semi-final against Alexander Zverev, testing Alcaraz’s mettle as he seeks to defend his title.

Women’s Top Seeds at Indian Wells 2025:

1. Aryna Sabalenka (Seeded No. 1)

Aryna Sabalenka leads the women’s draw as the top seed. Her path includes potential early challenges, with a possible quarter-final against Italy’s Jasmine Paolini. Sabalenka’s powerful game will be crucial as she seeks to improve upon her previous performances at Indian Wells.

2. Iga Swiatek (Seeded No. 2)

Defending champion Iga Swiatek faces a challenging draw. A possible quarter-final against China’s Zheng Qinwen awaits, followed by a potential semi-final clash with rising star Mirra Andreeva. Swiatek’s consistency and adaptability will be key as she aims to retain her title.

3. Coco Gauff (Seeded No. 3)

Coco Gauff’s draw presents significant hurdles. An early potential second-round match against Emma Raducanu could set the tone for her tournament. Advancing further, Gauff may face 13th seed Diana Shnaider in the fourth round and could encounter 17th seed Amanda Anisimova, the Doha champion, in the quarter-finals. Gauff’s resilience and tactical prowess will be tested as she seeks her first Indian Wells title.

The 2025 Indian Wells tournament promises intense competition, with top seeds in both the men’s and women’s draws facing formidable paths to the title.

Inside the Baseline…

The road ahead for the top seeds at Indian Wells is anything but easy. Zverev, now at the No. 1 spot, faces significant pressure with tough potential matchups, while Djokovic and Alcaraz are on a collision course that could set the stage for another thrilling rivalry. On the women’s side, Sabalenka’s power and Swiatek’s consistency will be tested, but Coco Gauff’s draw stands out as particularly challenging. She’ll need to dig deep to secure her first Indian Wells title. The stakes are high, and it’s anyone’s game to win.

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