The change in policy followed consultation with health and industry experts, the tournament said in a statement.

“The 2023 BNP Paribas Open will not require proof of Covid-19 vaccination for fans attending the event at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden,” the statement said, referring to its official name.

“We will continue to closely monitor the situation leading up to the tournament and re-evaluate any policies as necessary.”

The prestigious Masters 1000 event in the Southern California desert was one of the first major sporting events to be cancelled in March 2020 as the virus began to take hold in the US.

Fans were required to show digital proof of vaccination this year, but there were no capacity restraints and masks were not required.

The tournament said its policy on indoor dining will be assessed closer to the event, which kicks off with qualifiers on March 6 and concludes March 19.