See main article: 2011 BNP Paribas Open.
Novak Djokovic defeated Rafael Nadal in the final, 4–6, 6–3, 6–2 to win the men's singles tennis title at the 2011 Indian Wells Masters.
Ivan Ljubičić was the defending champion, but lost to Juan Martín del Potro in the second round.
All seeds received a bye into the second round.
See main article: 2011 BNP Paribas Open – Men's singles qualifying.