Venus Williams Exits Indian Wells in Round One as BNP Paribas Open Gets Underway

Day two of the BNP Paribas Open at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden delivered highlights and upsets as first-round play wrapped up Thursday night.

Tennis legend Venus Williams was knocked out by France's Diane Parry, who closed out the win 6-1 in the third set after a hard-fought two hours and 18 minutes on Stadium One. Parry fired 10 aces throughout the match — a performance that sent the crowd home buzzing despite the local favorite's exit. "It was an honour to be able to play against one of the biggest legends of our sport," Parry said after the win. "I was really grateful to be able to play this match on this amazing court. I'm also happy about the victory — but it's everything." Parry now faces former Australian Open champion Madison Keys in the second round.

Katerina Siniaková also advanced, fighting back from a set down to defeat 2020 Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin, closing out the win 6-1 in the final set. The loss handed Kenin her seventh straight defeat on the WTA Tour. Siniaková moves on to face Canada's Leila Fernandez in round two.

On the men's side, American Sebastian Korda cruised into round two with a commanding win over Francisco Comesaña. Korda, who recently lifted the trophy at Delray Beach, looks to be playing the best tennis of his career and will now face Alex de Minaur.

NBC Palm Springs is partnering with the Tennis Channel to bring viewers highlights and coverage from the BNP Paribas Open throughout the tournament. Fans can watch matches daily on the Tennis Channel or stream coverage online. The BNP Paribas Open continues in Indian Wells through March 15.