Four More ATP Players Pull Out of Indian Wells as American Teenager Qualifies by Ranking

Four More ATP Players Pull Out of Indian Wells as American Teenager Qualifies by Ranking

The field for the upcoming Indian Wells Masters has shifted as four players have been confirmed to withdraw from the event, with replacements already named.

As the first ATP Tour Masters 1000 event of the season approaches, players are eager to make their mark during the North American hard court swing, often seen as a key lead-up to the bigger tournaments.

However, some players will miss out, with the tournament, often dubbed the ‘fifth Grand Slam’ by fans, undergoing some changes in the draw.

Players Out of Indian Wells

Among those who will not be participating are America’s Reilly Opelka, who will miss out on the chance to play on home soil, and Japan’s Yoshihito Nishioka, who is also confirmed to be absent. Australian Thanasi Kokkinakis recently underwent surgery to repair a pectoral injury, ruling him out for an extended period, while Chile’s Nicolas Jarry has also pulled out.

Replacements Named

Their spots will be filled by Britain’s Jacob Fearnley, Australia’s Chris O’Connell, Serbia’s Dusan Lajovic, and American teenager Learner Tien.

Tien, 19, has been one of the standout young players of 2025. He was initially given a wildcard to enter the tournament but has now secured his place based on his ranking, meaning his wildcard spot can be offered to another player. Tien’s qualification by ranking is a significant achievement, and he will be making his debut in the Masters 1000 main draw.

Learner Tien: A Rising Star

Tien has already had an impressive start to 2025. After reaching the final of the Next Gen ATP Finals, where he finished as runner-up to Joao Fonseca, the American has continued his strong form. He made it to the last 16 at the Australian Open and progressed to the quarter-finals at the Mexican Open. His left-handed game, marked by his ability to create sharp angles, has proven very effective, and he’s already secured victories over top players like Daniil Medvedev and Alexander Zverev this year.

The 19-year-old will look to continue his strong 2025 season and make a statement at Indian Wells.

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