Medvedev delivered a commanding performance, preventing Alcaraz from securing a single break of serve throughout the match. His dominant display echoed his peak form in 2021, the year he clinched the US Open title and ascended to world number one.

The 30-year-old Russian has shown a strong resurgence early in the 2026 season. He captured the Brisbane International title in January in Australia and added another trophy at the Dubai Tennis Championships earlier this month. Medvedev continued this impressive run at Indian Wells, reaching the final without dropping a set.

Medvedev during the Indian Wells Masters semifinal, on Center Court at Indian Wells Tennis Garden, California, USA on 14/3. Photo: Reuters

Under the scorching California heat on 14/3, Medvedev successfully avenged his previous Indian Wells losses to Alcaraz, having been defeated by the Spanish opponent in two consecutive finals in 2023 and 2024.

This victory marks Medvedev's return to an ATP Masters 1000 final after two years. He will face Jannik Sinner, who secured his spot by defeating Alexander Zverev 6-2, 6-4 in the other semifinal. The win also ensures Medvedev's re-entry into the top 10 for the first time since last July.

Medvedev controlled the semifinal from the start. The hot weather and court conditions suited his powerful serve and forceful groundstrokes. Alcaraz, conversely, struggled, appearing less sharp at the net and with slightly slower reactions at the baseline.

Alcaraz hitting a forehand during his match against Medvedev, on Center Court at Indian Wells Tennis Garden, California, USA on 14/3. Photo: Reuters

Medvedev quickly established a 4-1 lead in the first set, facing little resistance. Alcaraz failed to earn a single break point, unable to disrupt Medvedev's rhythm.

Alcaraz adjusted in the second set, dropping deeper on his return of serve to gain more time. He managed to break Medvedev's serve to lead 3-1, but Medvedev immediately broke back, eventually forcing a tie-break. In the tie-break, Medvedev dominated, taking a 6-1 lead. Alcaraz saved two match points, narrowing the score to 3-6, before Medvedev sealed the match with an ace. This win puts Medvedev in his biggest final in two years and hands Alcaraz his first loss of the 2026 season.