Medvedev Upsets Alcaraz, Faces Sinner in Indian Wells Final
Daniil Medvedev has advanced to the BNP Paribas Open final in Indian Wells after a stunning 6-3, 7-6(3) victory over world No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz, ending the Spaniard’s 16-match winning streak to start the year.1 Medvedev will face Jannik Sinner in Sunday’s final after Sinner defeated Alexander Zverev 6-2, 6-4 in the other semifinal.
Medvedev’s Dominant Performance
The match marked Medvedev’s first win against Alcaraz since their 2023 U.S. Open semifinal encounter.1 Alcaraz had previously won their two most recent matches at the BNP Paribas Open in 2023 and 2024.
Medvedev secured an early break in the first set, capitalizing on errors from Alcaraz to accept a 4-1 lead. He continued to serve effectively and play aggressively, closing out the set 6-3.2
The second set was more competitive, with Alcaraz earning a break of his own. However, Medvedev immediately broke back, demonstrating his resilience and maintaining a level playing field. The set ultimately went to a tie-break, where Medvedev dominated, winning 7-3.2
Sinner Advances to the Final
Jannik Sinner had a more straightforward path to the final, defeating Alexander Zverev in straight sets 6-2, 6-4.1 2
Implications and Looking Ahead
Alcaraz’s defeat ended his perfect start to the 2026 season, which included a title at the Australian Open and a career Grand Slam.2 It was his first loss of the year and snapped a 16-match winning streak.2
For Medvedev, the win marks a return to form and a place back in the Top 10 rankings.3 He will be seeking his first title at Indian Wells, having previously reached the final twice before. The final against Sinner will also be a chance for Medvedev to avenge his recent losses to the Italian, having lost their last three encounters.1
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