Alcaraz retains title at Indian Wells

Wimbledon Champion Carlos Alcaraz successfully defended his Indian Wells crown against Daniil Medvedev in California. The World No.2 beat his Russian opponent in straight sets 7-6 6-1 in Sunday’s final. He is the first man to win successive Indian Wells titles since Novak Djokovic the tournament on three successive occasions from 2014-2016.

Medvedev started well in the match and raced into a 3-game lead in the opening set. However, the Spaniard rallied back and finally claimed the first set in a tie-braker. After taking control in the second set Alcaraz dominated play to retain his crown.

Alcaraz is now just the second youngest man to win five Masters 1000 titles before turning 21. He is second behind his hero Rafael Nadal.

The ladies crown was won by Iga Swiatek after she defeated Maria Sakkari 6-4 6-0 in the final. The victory is her second title in three years. The match was a repeat of the 2022 final and means Sakkari has not defeated the Polish star since 2021.

Swiatek retains her place at the top of the World rankings after claiming her 8^th WTA 1000 title at Indian Wells.