Jannik Sinner claimed his maiden Indian Wells title, defeating Daniil Medvedev 7-6 (8-6) 7-6 (7-4) in a polished display of hard-court excellence under the California desert sun.
The Italian was imperious throughout, finishing with 28 winners, 10 aces and a perfect eight out of eight net points.
Medvedev seized the initiative in the opening set, pushing to 6-5, only for Sinner to force a tie-break. The second set followed a similar pattern, only this time with Medvedev levelling to force a tie-break.
Medvedev raced to a commanding 4-0 lead, but Sinner reeled him in, catching him at 4-4 before closing out 7-4 to seal the match.
Sinner congratulated 19-year-old Italian Formula One driver Kimi Antonelli after winning the title: “It has been a special day for Italy because I’m a huge Formula One fan.
“Having a very young Italian, Kimi, bringing Italy back home at the top. It’s amazing. Thanks Kimi.”
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Kimi Antonelli claimed his debut win for Mercedes as he won the Chinese GP
The victory hands Sinner, a four-time Grand Slam champion, his first title of 2026.
For Medvedev, who has now lost three Indian Wells finals, it was another agonising near-miss at a tournament that continues to elude him.
He hailed the Sinner-Alcaraz rivalry after defeat, saying: “I tried my best. It was a good match. Whenever you play Carlos I love to see it. Now I was happy to not let Carlos play you again but love watching you guys. Go for it, continue winning. Never stop – and to your team as well.”
Medvedev ‘blinked’
Tim Henman, speaking on Sky Sports Tennis:
“Sinner’s consistency and inner belief, [at the] biggest moments in these big events in the finals, it got him across the line.
“His serve has become such a big weapon. He has dominated on serve.”
Martina Navratilova said: “It was crazy how the guys were backing up the serves but Medvedev blinked. [Sinner] is the most prolific and consistent performer on the men’s tour.”
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