Halep and Kerber withdraw from BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells

The first big names to withdraw from the first mandatory premier event are Halep and Kerber who were forced to do so because of injuries.

The former world number ones had a tough time admitting they will be missing the event due to injuries. Both played very well in Indian Wells. Simona Halep won it in 2015 while Kerber was last years finalist. Halep lastly played in Dubai where she won.

Halep released a statement that reads in full:

"I'm incredibly disappointed to have to withdraw from the 2020 BNP Paribas Open. Unfortunately, the foot injury that I picked up before Dubai is still causing me trouble and I will be unable to recover in time to travel to Indian Wells. It is, without doubt, one of the highlights of the tennis calendar for me and I will be really sad to miss it, but I'm already looking forward to being back in 2021!”

Kerber also released a statement that reads in full:

"My patience is being tested these days as I’m still recovering from a left leg injury. I was hoping to be ready in time for the upcoming tournaments in Indian Wells and Miami, but my medical team advised me to give it a little bit more rest. Thanks for your support! I can’t wait to be back on court soon..."

Both statements were released by the BNP Paris Open on their social media accounts.

https://twitter.com/BNPPARIBASOPEN/status/1236090552820486144