Jannik Sinner captured his first title of 2026 at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, defeating Daniil Medvedev in a gripping two-set final that showcased the Italian’s mental fortitude at its finest. The world number one completed a 7-6(6), 7-6(4) victory without facing a single break point throughout the entire match.
Sinner had entered the tournament under mild scrutiny after a relatively quiet start to the year by his own lofty standards. However, he quickly silenced any doubters by marching through the draw without surrendering a single set across the full two weeks in California.
The victory holds special significance for the 24-year-old, as Indian Wells was the last major hard-court title missing from his impressive collection. He now owns the Australian Open, US Open, ATP Finals, and all six Masters 1000 crowns — a feat that underlines his dominance on the surface.
Medvedev had arrived in the final full of momentum after stunning Sinner in the semi-finals of a previous event, and he pushed the Italian hard once again. Leading 4-0 in the second-set tiebreak, the Russian seemed poised to force a decider, but Sinner responded with seven consecutive points to seal the championship.
In the women’s draw, Aryna Sabalenka overcame Elena Rybakina 3-6, 6-3, 7-6(6) in an emotionally charged final, saving a match point in the deciding tiebreak. The world number one celebrated a remarkable personal week, which also included her engagement and the arrival of a new puppy.