CALIFORNIA: Indian Wells’ sun-baked courts crowned Jannik Sinner champion for the second time in three years, as the Italian dismantled Daniil Medvedev 6-2, 6-4 in the BNP Paribas Open final. Remarkably, Sinner didn’t drop a single set across six matches, conceding just 31 games en route to his 17th career title. The world No. 1’s serve, clocking 80% first-serve points won, proved impenetrable under the desert heat.
Medvedev, seeking a third Sunshine Double after Miami prep, started strong but faltered early. Sinner broke twice in the first set with laser forehands, wrapping it in 32 minutes. The second saw Medvedev claw back to 4-4, only for Sinner to unleash a backhand winner down the line for break point, then hold firm. A love service game sealed it, Sinner dropping to his knees in triumph as the Indian Wells crowd—many waving Italian flags—roared.
“This place feels like home,” Sinner said, trophy aloft. “Daniil pushed me hard in practice all week.” Medvedev, gracious in defeat, eyes Indian Wells’ brother event next. Sinner’s run included straight-set wins over Alcaraz in quarters and Paul in semis, his movement flawless despite a minor ankle tweak mid-week.
The 24-year-old extends his lead at No. 1, now 25-2 in 2026. Prize money: $1.1 million. With Miami looming, Sinner eyes back-to-back Masters 1000s. Medvedev: “He’s a machine right now.” Tournament organizers hailed record crowds, boosted by Sinner’s appeal.
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