INDIAN WELLS, Calif. – Daniil Medvedev delivered a stunning upset in the BNP Paribas Open semifinals on Saturday, defeating world No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz 6-3, 7-6 (3) and ending the Spaniard’s 16-match winning streak. The 30-year-traditional Russian will now compete for the title on Sunday, also securing his return to the ATP Top 10.
The victory comes after Jannik Sinner secured his place in the final earlier Saturday with a straightforward win over Alexander Zverev. Medvedev’s performance was a blend of aggressive play and strategic mastery, proving too much for Alcaraz in the searing heat of the Coachella Valley. This marks Medvedev’s third appearance in the Indian Wells final.
Medvedev seized control early, breaking Alcaraz’s serve in the first set to establish a 3-1 lead. He maintained that advantage, closing out the set 6-3 in 35 minutes. Alcaraz, who had been on an impressive run to start 2026, appeared slightly off his game, struggling with reaction time and net play.
The second set saw a more competitive exchange, with Alcaraz briefly gaining a break advantage. However, Medvedev quickly responded, leveling the score and forcing a tiebreak. In the tiebreak, Medvedev showcased his best tennis, minimizing errors and securing a 7-6 (3) victory to claim the match.
Alcaraz had entered the tournament with a remarkable 16-match win streak, having already claimed titles at the Australian Open and in Doha. His path to the semifinals included victories over Grigor Dimitrov, Arthur Rinderknech, Casper Ruud and Cameron Norrie. The 22-year-old had only dropped one partial set during his run in the desert, solidifying his status as the tournament favorite.
Medvedev, the 2021 US Open champion, entered Indian Wells in strong form, having recently won titles in Brisbane and Dubai. He demonstrated a renewed confidence and level of play, signaling a return to his best. His coach, Rohan Goetzke, and Thomas Johansson, have clearly had a positive impact on his game.
The match wasn’t without its minor controversy earlier in the tournament. Medvedev was involved in a heated exchange during his quarterfinal match against Jack Draper, pausing play during a rally due to a perceived distraction from his opponent. The umpire sided with Medvedev, a decision that Draper respectfully questioned at the net, as reported by ESPN.
Medvedev’s win not only propels him into the final but also guarantees his return to the ATP Top 10, a significant milestone after a less successful 2025. He will now face Jannik Sinner in a highly anticipated final on Sunday, promising a thrilling conclusion to the BNP Paribas Open.
The BNP Paribas Open final between Daniil Medvedev and Jannik Sinner will be broadcast live on Disney+ Plan Premium.
Key Takeaways:
- Medvedev Upsets Alcaraz: Daniil Medvedev ended Carlos Alcaraz’s 16-match winning streak with a 6-3, 7-6 (3) victory in the Indian Wells semifinals.
- Return to the Top 10: The win secures Medvedev’s return to the ATP Top 10 rankings.
- Sinner Awaits: Medvedev will face Jannik Sinner in the Indian Wells final on Sunday.
- Alcaraz’s Streak Ends: Alcaraz’s impressive start to 2026, which included titles in Australia and Doha, comes to an end in the California desert.
The final promises to be a compelling contest between two of the sport’s brightest stars. Medvedev will look to continue his impressive form and claim his first Indian Wells title, while Sinner will aim to add another prestigious trophy to his growing collection. Fans can expect a high-quality match as both players battle for the championship.
Following the final, both players are expected to participate in the Miami Open, beginning later this month. The results in Indian Wells will undoubtedly influence their seeding and momentum heading into that next major tournament.
What are your thoughts on Medvedev’s victory? Will he be able to defeat Sinner in the final? Share your predictions and comments below!
