The Tennis Garden in Indian Wells makes improvements for BNP Paribas Open.

The BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells is getting underway.

It was already viewed as among the best tennis tournaments in the world, when it comes to spectator experience.

But this year, they’ve taken steps to make it even better.

One of the first improvements spectators may notice is the new 19 thousand square foot shade structure.

It sits near the entrance to center court at the Tennis Garden.

Tournament spectator Lisa Thayer said it is something her family enjoyed.

“This is wonderful, in fact we just came here and tried it out, and it is a wonderful place to sit down,” said Thayer.

With partly cloudy skies Monday morning, shade was not in high demand.

But its not unusual for daytime highs to reach triple digits during tournament time, and when that does happen, spectators run for cover.

This year, they have a lot more cover.

In addition to the new shade, spectators will get to enjoy some new seating.

New box seats have been installed in the lower bowl around center court, and box seats have been installed for the first time on every match court around the site.

Tournament Director Steve Simon talked about the improvements.

“We want to make sure that it is a good experience, that it is a comfortable place to watch tennis and get close to the action,” said Simon.

The action Monday was on the outer courts, with qualifying matches for the women.

The center court was mostly empty, except for a few pros getting in some practice sessions.

For those who do come out to watch the action this year, the play promises to be hot.

If the weather turns that way as well, those who gather under the new shade structure will have it made in the shade.

Simon says they plan to replace the rest of the seats inside the main stadium after this year’s event.