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As is often the case, wildcards have been handed out to rising prospects, established names and local favourites, and that is exactly how it has played out for this year’s event.

Venus Williams is among those given a spot in the draw, alongside Bianca Andreescu, Sloane Stephens and Gael Monfils.

But there was no place for Wawrinka, who arguably had as strong a case as any to be included.

He has picked up six wins so far this year, but beyond results, it would have been a fitting way to give him a proper send-off at one of the sport’s most popular tournaments.

Even though he never won the title in California, he did reach the final back in 2017 before losing to Roger Federer.

Plus, his track record speaks for itself: three Grand Slam titles and a lasting impact on the ATP Tour that deserves recognition.

The tournament could also have benefited from his presence. Like Williams, Wawrinka still draws crowds wherever he goes. It feels like a missed chance all around.

Stan Wawrinka to play Geneva Open as two-time winner returns

Wawrinka is not dwelling on missing out on Indian Wells. Instead, he has turned his focus to the Geneva Open in May, where he has already been confirmed to compete.

He is the first major name locked in for the ATP 250 event, a tournament that holds a special place in his career as the site of his last title win.

The Swiss star defended his 2016 title successfully the following year and remains a strong supporter of the local event.

Wawrinka, currently ranked 92nd in the world, is looking to finish his final season inside the top 100 – a goal that appears well within reach at this stage.

Meanwhile, Gael Monfils and Novak Djokovic will be carrying the flag for their generation at Indian Wells. Djokovic heads into the tournament tied for the most titles with five wins.

The Miami Open comes right after Indian Wells on the calendar, and there is hope they will take a different approach by awarding Wawrinka a wildcard entry into their ATP Masters 1000 draw.