Medvedev Stuns Alcaraz, Sets Indian Wells Final Clash with Sinner
Daniil Medvedev delivered a commanding performance to defeat world No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz 6-3, 7-6(3) at the BNP Paribas Open, securing his place in the final and ending Alcaraz’s 16-match winning streak. Jannik Sinner likewise advanced to the final, defeating Alexander Zverev 6-2, 6-4, setting up a highly anticipated showdown on Sunday.
Medvedev Overpowers Alcaraz
Medvedev’s victory marks his first over Alcaraz since their 2023 U.S. Open semifinal encounter. The Russian showcased aggressive shotmaking and composure under pressure, converting four of five break points while denying Alcaraz on both break point opportunities he faced. According to Infosys ATP Stats, Medvedev won 74% of his second-serve points.
“Playing someone like Carlos, you play many times, you lose many times,” Medvedev said after the match. “He’s an amazing player with amazing shots, defence, attack, return, everything. So, you need to be at your best.”
Alcaraz, who had been riding a 16-match winning streak entering the semifinal, struggled to find his rhythm against Medvedev’s relentless attack. “I just have to supply credit to Daniil,” Alcaraz told reporters. “I consider he just played an amazing match. Since the start of the match until the end, he was playing unreal, I gotta say. I have never seen, to be honest, Daniil playing like this.”
Medvedev’s win avenges losses to Alcaraz in the 2023 and 2024 Indian Wells finals, where he failed to win a set in either match. He credited self-belief and the faster court conditions for his success. “Every time I step on court I need to believe I can win,” he said. “It’s a bit faster court than the two previous times, so it gave me more chances on my serve. To beat someone like Carlos, especially with the season that he was having, is a great feeling.”
Sinner Dominates Zverev to Reach Final
Jannik Sinner continued his impressive form with a dominant 6-2, 6-4 victory over Alexander Zverev, earning his sixth consecutive tour-level win against the German. The Italian secured his first BNP Paribas Open final appearance in just one hour and 23 minutes.
Sinner converted three of six break points and won 83% of points behind his first serve. “It’s a great achievement. The first time here in the final, it means a lot to me,” Sinner stated. “The third time that I’ve played the semis here, so I’m highly happy about that. Now let’s see what’s coming.”
“It was a great performance from my side. Sascha didn’t play very well today I felt like. I broke him a couple of times in the first set, which gave me confidence to continue, and I served very well at important moments. I’m very happy.”
Looking Ahead: Sinner vs. Medvedev Final
Sunday’s final will be the first meeting between Sinner and Medvedev since 2024. Both players have yet to drop a set throughout the tournament. Medvedev has now won 18 consecutive sets, a streak that began at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships.
“If I manage to maintain the level I had throughout the tournament and maybe even raise it, I will have my chances,” Medvedev said.