Former WTA pro Eugenie Bouchard has backed World No. 5 Jessica Pegula over Coco Gauff for the Indian Wells Open, which starts on Monday. Bouchard joined former ATP pros on the latest Tennis Channel broadcast, where they discussed their picks for the WTA 1000 event in Indian Wells, California.
The Canadian picked the reigning Dubai Open champion over the defending Roland Garros champion to do well in Indian Wells, citing her imperious form and consistent run at tournaments over the past six months.
“Jess has been so consistent in recent tournaments and is coming off an impressive win at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships. She may be dealing with a knee injury, but hopefully that is more a function of just how much she’s played to start the season, and not a bigger issue going forward,” Bouchard said.
“She has historically posted stronger results at the Miami Open, but the Indian Wells Tennis Garden’s famous gritty courts should be advantageous to her high-percentage game,” she added.
Fellow panelists Nick Monroe and Brett Haber agreed with Bouchard’s analysis, backing Pegula to have a better run at Indian Wells than the two-time Grand Slam champion.
While Bouchard Backed Jessica Pegula, Some Other Pros Rallied Behind Coco Gauff
Former ATP pros Sam Querrey and Paul Annacone went the other way and backed Gauff to find her form on court in the Indian Wells Open. The 21-year-old American had a disappointing start to 2026, marred by inconsistent performances, but Querrey and Annacone feel she will bounce back at Indian Wells.
“She played great in Dubai, even in the match she lost to Svitolina in the semifinals. She’s never won this event, so I think that could be extra motivation. These courts clearly play to her strengths: a gritty, high-bouncing court can only help her forehand and should give her extra zip on her serve,” Querrey said.
“I do think Emma Navarro will have a good tournament, but Coco is due for a big run at a top-tier tournament, and her athleticism on these courts should be a perfect fit,” Annacone said.
The main draw begins on Monday, with many of the top seeds receiving byes in the first round.
Also read:
Amanda Anisimova Shares Concerning Update Ahead of Indian Wells
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in tennis, college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!
