Jannik Sinner has finally added the Indian Wells title to his growing list of achievements, completing a dominant fortnight in the California desert without dropping a single set. He defeated Daniil Medvedev 7-6(6), 7-6(4) in a high-quality final to claim his first trophy of the 2026 season.
The Italian world number one had experienced a somewhat subdued opening to the year, yet his performances at Indian Wells were a reminder of why he stands alone at the top of men’s tennis. His ability to close out tight moments proved decisive against a dangerous Medvedev.
Medvedev had upset Sinner in the semi-finals earlier in the season and brought that same aggressive tennis into the final. He opened a 4-0 lead in the second-set tiebreak, but Sinner produced a stunning run of seven straight points to deny the Russian and claim the title.
The win completes what Sinner described as the last major hard-court prize he had yet to win. Having already secured the Australian Open, US Open, ATP Finals, and the other five Masters 1000 titles, the Indian Wells crown now completes the full set on hard courts.
On the women’s side, Aryna Sabalenka delivered a courageous performance to beat Elena Rybakina and end a four-final losing streak against the Kazakh player. Sabalenka saved a match point at 5-6 in the deciding tiebreak and described the week as one she would never forget, celebrating her engagement and a new puppy alongside the title.