Ace women's tennis player Aryna Sabalenka says that she might never partake in Dubai Open after the tournament director criticised her and Iga Swaitek for withdrawing at the last moment. Sabalenka chose to withdraw from the event to keep heself fresh and the result was visible as she won her maiden Indian Wells tournament last week. The Dubai Open director, meanwhile, had called for stricter penalties as well as other form of punishement including docking of ranking points, something which Sabalenka found 'ridiculous.' Apart from Dubai Open, Sabalenka had also opted out from Doha Open, both WTA 1000 events, and played in February.<h2>Why Sabalenka won't take part in Dubai Open in future?</h2>Sabalenka is not happy with the comments of Dubai Open tournament director Salah Tahlak, who had said: "I think there should be a harsher punishment on the players, not just fines, they should be docked ranking points." Tahlak's comments after Sabalenka and Swiatek had withdrawn from the tournament at the last moment.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-statehood-trump-bats-for-venezuela-as-us-state-51-after-usa-loses-world-baseball-title-1773808195777">'STATEHOOD': Trump bats for Venezuela as US state #51 after USA loses World Baseball title</a>"I don’t think he showed himself in the best way possible. For me it’s actually so sad to see that the tournament directors and the tournaments are not protecting us as a player. They just care about their sellings, about their tournament and that’s it. His comment was ridiculous. I’m not sure if I ever want to go there after his comment. For me it’s too much," said Sabalenka durin the Miami Open pre-tournament press conference.<h2>Why Sabalenka withdrew from Dubai Open?</h2>The two-time Australian Open and US Open winner also talked about why she withdrew from the Dubai Open at the last moment and said: "Going into this season, we decided we were going to prioritise my health and make sure that we have these little gaps in the schedule where I can just reset, recharge, work and be better prepared for bigger tournaments. I feel like scheduling is going crazy and I feel like that’s why you see so many players are injured, always taped and not delivering the best quality matches because it’s almost impossible."

Sabalenka is not happy with the comments of Dubai Open tournament director Salah Tahlak, who had said: "I think there should be a harsher punishment on the players, not just fines, they should be docked ranking points." Tahlak's comments after Sabalenka had withdrawn from the tournament.

Ace women's tennis player Aryna Sabalenka says that she might never partake in Dubai Open after the tournament director criticised her and Iga Swaitek for withdrawing at the last moment. Sabalenka chose to withdraw from the event to keep heself fresh and the result was visible as she won her maiden Indian Wells tournament last week. The Dubai Open director, meanwhile, had called for stricter penalties as well as other form of punishement including docking of ranking points, something which Sabalenka found 'ridiculous.' Apart from Dubai Open, Sabalenka had also opted out from Doha Open, both WTA 1000 events, and played in February. Why Sabalenka won't take part in Dubai Open in future? Sabalenka is not happy with the comments of Dubai Open tournament director Salah Tahlak, who had said: "I think there should be a harsher punishment on the players, not just fines, they should be docked ranking points." Tahlak's comments after Sabalenka and Swiatek had withdrawn from the tournament at the last moment. Also Read - 'STATEHOOD': Trump bats for Venezuela as US state #51 after USA loses World Baseball title "I don’t think he showed himself in the best way possible. For me it’s actually so sad to see that the tournament directors and the tournaments are not protecting us as a player. They just care about their sellings, about their tournament and that’s it. His comment was ridiculous. I’m not sure if I ever want to go there after his comment. For me it’s too much," said Sabalenka durin the Miami Open pre-tournament press conference. Why Sabalenka withdrew from Dubai Open? The two-time Australian Open and US Open winner also talked about why she withdrew from the Dubai Open at the last moment and said: "Going into this season, we decided we were going to prioritise my health and make sure that we have these little gaps in the schedule where I can just reset, recharge, work and be better prepared for bigger tournaments. I feel like scheduling is going crazy and I feel like that’s why you see so many players are injured, always taped and not delivering the best quality matches because it’s almost impossible."

Sabalenka is not happy with the comments of Dubai Open tournament director Salah Tahlak, who had said: "I think there should be a harsher punishment on the players, not just fines, they should be docked ranking points." Tahlak's comments after Sabalenka had withdrawn from the tournament.

'Tournaments not protecting us': Sabalenka not going to Dubai Open in future after director's 'ridiculous' comments

Jannik Sinner finished a strong campaign at the Indian Wells by beating Daniil Medvedev 7-6(6), 7-6(4) in an exciting final on Sunday to win his first title in the California desert. The Italian world no. two made an impressive comeback in the second-set tiebreak, coming back from 0-4 to win seven points in a row and secure the win. Sinner also became the champion without dropping a single set throughout the tournament.&nbsp;This win also showed Sinner’s recent dominance over Medvedev, as it was his ninth victory in their last ten meetings. Medvedev had reached the final after upsetting top seed Carlos Alcaraz in the semifinals, giving the Spaniard his first loss of the season at the BNP Paribas Open.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-pehla-hi-uda-denge-sanju-samson-reveals-vaibhav-sooryavanshi-s-chat-with-rahul-dravid-1773640779103">‘Pehla hi uda denge’: Sanju Samson reveals Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s chat with Rahul Dravid</a>&nbsp;After the match, Sinner spoke about a great day for Italian sport and praised young Formula One driver Kimi Antonelli for winning the Chinese Grand Prix.&nbsp;“It’s been a special day for Italy,” Sinner said. “I’m a huge Formula One fan and seeing such a young Italian win is amazing.”&nbsp;In the women’s final, world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka won her first Indian Wells title after defeating Elena Rybakina 3-6, 6-3, 7-6(6) in hot conditions.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sabalenka showed strong determination in the deciding set. She was broken while serving for the match at 5-4, but stayed calm in the tiebreak even when Rybakina had a championship point. Sabalenka answered with a brilliant backhand winner and then finished the match with a powerful serve that Rybakina sent long.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-great-opportunity-for-us-shubman-gill-opens-up-on-india-s-plans-for-2027-odi-world-cup-1773638797980">‘Great opportunity for us’: Gill opens up on India’s plans for 2027 World Cup</a>&nbsp;“I wanted to stay mentally strong no matter what,” Sabalenka said. “I tried to show through my body language that I’m here to fight.”&nbsp;The win gave Sabalenka a 9-7 lead in her head-to-head record with Rybakina. It also came during a memorable period for the 27-year-old, who recently got engaged to Brazilian businessman Georgios Frangulis.&nbsp;Sabalenka, who will defend her title at the upcoming Miami Open, said she would celebrate briefly before heading to Florida to continue her good form at the next major event on the tour.&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

Jannik Sinner claimed his first 2026 title with a win over Daniil Medvedev at the Indian Wells, while Aryna Sabalenka snapped her losing streak against Elena Rybakina in a thrilling women’s final.

Jannik Sinner finished a strong campaign at the Indian Wells by beating Daniil Medvedev 7-6(6), 7-6(4) in an exciting final on Sunday to win his first title in the California desert. The Italian world no. two made an impressive comeback in the second-set tiebreak, coming back from 0-4 to win seven points in a row and secure the win. Sinner also became the champion without dropping a single set throughout the tournament. This win also showed Sinner’s recent dominance over Medvedev, as it was his ninth victory in their last ten meetings. Medvedev had reached the final after upsetting top seed Carlos Alcaraz in the semifinals, giving the Spaniard his first loss of the season at the BNP Paribas Open. Also Read - ‘Pehla hi uda denge’: Sanju Samson reveals Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s chat with Rahul Dravid After the match, Sinner spoke about a great day for Italian sport and praised young Formula One driver Kimi Antonelli for winning the Chinese Grand Prix. “It’s been a special day for Italy,” Sinner said. “I’m a huge Formula One fan and seeing such a young Italian win is amazing.” In the women’s final, world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka won her first Indian Wells title after defeating Elena Rybakina 3-6, 6-3, 7-6(6) in hot conditions. Sabalenka showed strong determination in the deciding set. She was broken while serving for the match at 5-4, but stayed calm in the tiebreak even when Rybakina had a championship point. Sabalenka answered with a brilliant backhand winner and then finished the match with a powerful serve that Rybakina sent long. Also Read - ‘Great opportunity for us’: Gill opens up on India’s plans for 2027 World Cup “I wanted to stay mentally strong no matter what,” Sabalenka said. “I tried to show through my body language that I’m here to fight.” The win gave Sabalenka a 9-7 lead in her head-to-head record with Rybakina. It also came during a memorable period for the 27-year-old, who recently got engaged to Brazilian businessman Georgios Frangulis. Sabalenka, who will defend her title at the upcoming Miami Open, said she would celebrate briefly before heading to Florida to continue her good form at the next major event on the tour. With inputs from agencies

Jannik Sinner claimed his first 2026 title with a win over Daniil Medvedev at the Indian Wells, while Aryna Sabalenka snapped her losing streak against Elena Rybakina in a thrilling women’s final.

Jannik Sinner triumphs over ‌Daniil Medvedev to secure maiden Indian Wells title

The Indian Wells tournament saw controversy break out as defending champion Jake Draper, who had beaten Novak Djokovic in the previous match, lost 6-1, 7-5 to Daniil Medvedev in the quarter-final on Thursday (Mar 12). Draper was accused of hindrance by chair umpire in the second set with the match poised at 5-5, 15-0 in Medvedev's favour. The chair umpire gave Medvedev, the former world 1, a point and Draper went on to lose the match. He would have los anyway, but the controversial call just made it a sour for him as well as Medvedev, who will take the win nonetheless.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/alexander-zverev-joins-federer-nadal-djokovic-and-murray-after-entering-indian-wells-last-four-1773364321065">Zverev joins Federer, Nadal, Djokovic &amp; Murray after entering Indian Wells semis</a><h2>What was the Draper vs Medvedev controversy at Indian Wells?</h2>The first set was an absolute one-sider where Medvedev made small work of Draper's challenge who was visible tired from his sensational win over Djokovic, nearly 24 hours ago. In the second set, the match was at 5-5 as Draper tried mount a comeback in a bid to defend his title. Already 0-15 behind, Draper and Medvedev played a rally and a ball hit the net chord before falling into Medvedev's side of court. The Brit wavived his hands in the air, Medvedev played the shot but the chair umpired called it hinderance. Draper protested but the umpire gave Medvedev a point to make the score 30-0 and Draper could not comeback from that. Have a look at the video of the controversial call below:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Your call: Hindrance or not?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianWells?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianWells</a> <a href="https://t.co/5Ko8GUncJk">pic.twitter.com/5Ko8GUncJk</a>&mdash; BNP Paribas Open (@BNPPARIBASOPEN) <a href="https://twitter.com/BNPPARIBASOPEN/status/2032306028885524918?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What did Medvedev say about the controversy?</h2>After the match, Draper shook hands with Medvedev and the chair umpire as well, despite the crowd booing the Russian at the time of controversy."If you look at the first forehand I did after it happened, I think I could have done a better shot if there was no gesture from Jack," Medvedev told reporters after the match."Was I distracted ‌big time? No. Do I feel good about it? Not really. But I also don't feel like I cheated or something. I got a bit distracted. I let it go and I let the umpire decide."&nbsp;

Already 0-15 behind, Draper and Medvedev played a rally and a ball hit the net chord before falling into Medvedev's side of court. The Brit wavived his hands in the air, Medvedev played the shot but the chair umpired called it hinderance.

The Indian Wells tournament saw controversy break out as defending champion Jake Draper, who had beaten Novak Djokovic in the previous match, lost 6-1, 7-5 to Daniil Medvedev in the quarter-final on Thursday (Mar 12). Draper was accused of hindrance by chair umpire in the second set with the match poised at 5-5, 15-0 in Medvedev's favour. The chair umpire gave Medvedev, the former world 1, a point and Draper went on to lose the match. He would have los anyway, but the controversial call just made it a sour for him as well as Medvedev, who will take the win nonetheless. Also Read - Zverev joins Federer, Nadal, Djokovic & Murray after entering Indian Wells semis What was the Draper vs Medvedev controversy at Indian Wells? The first set was an absolute one-sider where Medvedev made small work of Draper's challenge who was visible tired from his sensational win over Djokovic, nearly 24 hours ago. In the second set, the match was at 5-5 as Draper tried mount a comeback in a bid to defend his title. Already 0-15 behind, Draper and Medvedev played a rally and a ball hit the net chord before falling into Medvedev's side of court. The Brit wavived his hands in the air, Medvedev played the shot but the chair umpired called it hinderance. Draper protested but the umpire gave Medvedev a point to make the score 30-0 and Draper could not comeback from that. Have a look at the video of the controversial call below:

Already 0-15 behind, Draper and Medvedev played a rally and a ball hit the net chord before falling into Medvedev's side of court. The Brit wavived his hands in the air, Medvedev played the shot but the chair umpired called it hinderance.

Did Medvedev cheat? Draper's Indian Wells title defence ends amid hindrance call controversy - WATCH

Alexander Zverev may have not won a grand slam title in his career as of now but he has created one piece of history which he can be absolutely proud of. Currently playing in the Indian Wells, an ATP Masters 1000 tournament, Zverev has advanced to the semis, becoming only the the fifth player in the tennis history to enter the last four of all nine ATP Masters 1000 tournaments. The German is now in some elite company along with Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray. Zverev joined the list on Thursday (Mar 12) by beating Frenchman Arthur Fils 6-2, 6-3 in straight sets in the quarter-finals.<h2>Why is Zverev's win over Fils in Indian Wells historic?</h2>Before beating Fils on Thursday (Mar 12), Zverev had entered the semis of eight of nine ATP Masters 1000 tournaments. With the win over the Frenchman, he now has made it to the last four of all nine such tournaments - making him only the fifth men's player in the history to achieve the milestone - along with Federer, Nadal, Djokovic, and Murray. The elite tournaments just rank below the grand slams in prestige and prize money, offering 1000 ranking points to the winner. Only Djokovic has won all nine of them, which are: Indian Wells, Miami, Monte-Carlo, Madrid, Rome, Canada (Toronto/Montreal), Cincinnati, Shanghai, and Paris.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/winter-paralympics-watch-german-athletes-deny-selfie-with-russians-after-turning-back-at-podium-1773290916123">Winter Paralympics | WATCH - German athletes say no to selfie with Russians</a><h2>What did Zverev said after the win?</h2>"It's very special to be one of five players in history to ever do it," Zverev said after his special win. "For sure, yeah, it's something that I'm very proud of."Zverev may have never won a grand slam title despite reaching the final three times, he has managed to win four ATP Masters 1000 tournaments and will now hope to win the fifth one as he faces Jannik Sinner in semis on Saturday (Mar 14).The German has been a finalist in Australian Open (2025), French Open (2024), and US Open (2020), while making it to the fourth round of Wimbledon thrice in 2017, 2021, and 2024. &nbsp;

With the win over the Fils, he now has made it to the last four of all nine ATP Masters 1000 tournaments - making him only the fifth men's player in the history to achieve the milestone - along with Federer, Nadal, Djokovic, and Murray. The tournaments offer 1000 ranking points to the winner.

Alexander Zverev may have not won a grand slam title in his career as of now but he has created one piece of history which he can be absolutely proud of. Currently playing in the Indian Wells, an ATP Masters 1000 tournament, Zverev has advanced to the semis, becoming only the the fifth player in the tennis history to enter the last four of all nine ATP Masters 1000 tournaments. The German is now in some elite company along with Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray. Zverev joined the list on Thursday (Mar 12) by beating Frenchman Arthur Fils 6-2, 6-3 in straight sets in the quarter-finals. Why is Zverev's win over Fils in Indian Wells historic? Before beating Fils on Thursday (Mar 12), Zverev had entered the semis of eight of nine ATP Masters 1000 tournaments. With the win over the Frenchman, he now has made it to the last four of all nine such tournaments - making him only the fifth men's player in the history to achieve the milestone - along with Federer, Nadal, Djokovic, and Murray. The elite tournaments just rank below the grand slams in prestige and prize money, offering 1000 ranking points to the winner. Only Djokovic has won all nine of them, which are: Indian Wells, Miami, Monte-Carlo, Madrid, Rome, Canada (Toronto/Montreal), Cincinnati, Shanghai, and Paris. Also Read - Winter Paralympics | WATCH - German athletes say no to selfie with Russians What did Zverev said after the win? "It's very special to be one of five players in history to ever do it," Zverev said after his special win. "For sure, yeah, it's something that I'm very proud of." Zverev may have never won a grand slam title despite reaching the final three times, he has managed to win four ATP Masters 1000 tournaments and will now hope to win the fifth one as he faces Jannik Sinner in semis on Saturday (Mar 14). The German has been a finalist in Australian Open (2025), French Open (2024), and US Open (2020), while making it to the fourth round of Wimbledon thrice in 2017, 2021, and 2024.

With the win over the Fils, he now has made it to the last four of all nine ATP Masters 1000 tournaments - making him only the fifth men's player in the history to achieve the milestone - along with Federer, Nadal, Djokovic, and Murray. The tournaments offer 1000 ranking points to the winner.

Alexander Zverev joins Federer, Nadal, Djokovic, and Murray after entering Indian Wells last four

Russian teenager Mirra Andreeva's title defence at the Indian Wells came to an ugly end with 6-4, 6(5)-7(7), 3-6 R32 loss against Katerina Siniakova. During the match, Andreeva smashed her racquet multiple times in appearant frustration. It was, however, the Russian's gestures and profanity twoards the crowd after the match was over which has gone viral on the social media. The 18-year-old has also acknowledged short temper as her shortcoming and something she would be working on in the future. Nonethless, her behaviour towards the crowd is something incomprehensible if not her racquet samshing which is far more common in tennis after a player loses.<h2>What did Andreeva say to crowd after losing Indian Well match?</h2>Andreeva started the match well, winning the first set 6-4 but things derailed after that. Her opponent Siniakova won the final match point with the ball hitting the net chord and landing on Andreeva's side, further angering the 18-year-old Russian. She shook hands, as if complete the formality and while walking back twoards the locker room, she appeared to say "f*** you all" while gesturing towards the crowd, shocking a female fan standing near the front seats in the arena. Have a look at her meltdown below:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🤬 Mirra Andreeva smashed her racket and shouted at the spectators, “Screw you all!” after losing at the Indian Wells tournament — her opponent, Kateřina Siniaková, facepalmed in response to the Russian’s outburst. 🎾💥 🚧 – Alexander Bublik’s school<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MirraAndreeva?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MirraAndreeva</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianWells?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianWells</a>… <a href="https://t.co/BYSvpqChJV">pic.twitter.com/BYSvpqChJV</a>&mdash; RusWar (@ruswar) <a href="https://twitter.com/ruswar/status/2031298245175943310?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Watch - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-watch-lamine-yamal-saves-barcelona-vs-newcastle-in-historic-ucl-appearance-1773192698176">Lamine Yamal saves Barcelona vs Newcastle in historic UCL appearance</a><h2>How Andreeva responded to her temper tantrums?</h2>Speaking about her behaviour after the match, Andreeva conceded that she's "not really proud of how I managed it." The Russian, however, clarified that her profanities were not directed at the crowd: "It was to myself, to everyone, basically. I mean, after the loss, I just get very angry, so I say those things sometimes to myself. I mean, first to myself, of course, but then, yeah, it was just anger coming out, just a lot of emotions. Not really towards anyone."Andreeva also vowed to work on these things and better at handling herself: "Those are the things that [I] really need to work on soon. I don’t know. Not in the future but whenever I get the chance. Yeah, I hope that I can work on it and I get better in that, as well."&nbsp;

Andreeva also smashed her racquet multiple times in appearant frustration after R32 loss vs Katerina Siniakova and while walking back twoards the locker room, she appeared to say "f*** you all" while gesturing towards the cro

Russian teenager Mirra Andreeva's title defence at the Indian Wells came to an ugly end with 6-4, 6(5)-7(7), 3-6 R32 loss against Katerina Siniakova. During the match, Andreeva smashed her racquet multiple times in appearant frustration. It was, however, the Russian's gestures and profanity twoards the crowd after the match was over which has gone viral on the social media. The 18-year-old has also acknowledged short temper as her shortcoming and something she would be working on in the future. Nonethless, her behaviour towards the crowd is something incomprehensible if not her racquet samshing which is far more common in tennis after a player loses. What did Andreeva say to crowd after losing Indian Well match? Andreeva started the match well, winning the first set 6-4 but things derailed after that. Her opponent Siniakova won the final match point with the ball hitting the net chord and landing on Andreeva's side, further angering the 18-year-old Russian. She shook hands, as if complete the formality and while walking back twoards the locker room, she appeared to say "f*** you all" while gesturing towards the crowd, shocking a female fan standing near the front seats in the arena. Have a look at her meltdown below:

Andreeva also smashed her racquet multiple times in appearant frustration after R32 loss vs Katerina Siniakova and while walking back twoards the locker room, she appeared to say "f*** you all" while gesturing towards the crowd.

Mirra Andreeva suffers meltdown, shouts 'F*** you all' to fans as her Indian Wells title defence ends - WATCH

Russian 17-year-old <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mirra-andreeva" rel="dofollow">Mirra Andreeva</a> toppled world number one <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/aryna-sabalenka">Aryna Sabalenka</a> 2-6, 6-4, 6-3 on Sunday to capture her second WTA 1000 title at Indian Wells.
Andreeva, who last month become the youngest ever player to win an elite 1000 level crown with her triumph in Dubai, ended a frustrating run against the Belarusian to ensure she will rise to a career-high sixth in the world on Monday.&nbsp;Andreeva shook off her first set woes and broke Sabalenka three times in the third pushing her 2025 record to 19-3 -- the most wins of any woman on the WTA tour.
"I would like to thank myself for fighting to the end," Andreeva said. "I was running like a rabbit today because Aryna she was sending bullets and it was really hard to keep up."
In a match of swinging shifts of momentum, Andreeva was in full control by the end, giving herself a match point on Sabalenka's serve with a defensive lob that forced a miss from the number one and clinching victory with a forehand winner.
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"The match point I just really tried to just put the return in, it doesn't matter how," she told Tennis Channel. "Then I just saw the ball and I decided I might just go for it.
"And I did," added Andreeva, who sank to her knees in celebration after her winner landed.&nbsp;Andreeva claimed her first hard court victory over Sabalenka, who had beaten her twice already this year at Brisbane and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/australian-open">Australian Open</a>.
Sabalenka had powered into the final without dropping a set but it was another disappointment for the Belarusian, who was stunned by Madison Keys in the final at Melbourne to see her bid for a third successive Australian Open title denied.
Unlike in Melbourne where she played "like a joke," Sabalenka said, this time she let her emotions get the best of her.
"Honestly, was me against me," she said. "I made a lot of unforced errors on important points, and I just let her play a little bit better ... I was just too pissed with myself, because I think it shouldn't be the way I finished and I was just pissed with myself.
"I should have just thrown that aggression on that side instead of being too hard on myself."
Andreeva had Sabalenka under pressure early, and the youngster's frustration was evident as she was unable to convert four break points in the third game.
Sabalenka took full advantage, breaking the Russian to love for a 3-1 lead and keeping her foot firmly on the accelerator from there.
<h2>Anger boiling </h2>
Sabalenka backed up her power from the baseline with some confident forays to the net, breaking Andreeva to take the opening set in 37 minutes.
"The anger was just boiling inside of me, because I had a lot of opportunities I didn't convert," said Andreeva, who wasted another three break points to open the second set.&nbsp;She finally gained a foothold with a break for 2-1 &nbsp;-- pouncing on a Sabalenka second serve to end a run of 18 missed break point chances against the Belarusian this year.
"I was so desperate to win at least one game on her serve ... every time she served I just tried to win one more game and then one more game," Andreeva said. "Somehow I kind of crawled and came back and we got into the third set like this."
Andreeva saved a pair of break points to push her lead to 4-2, her winners tally climbing with her confidence.&nbsp;After missing one chance to take the set on Sabalenka's serve, Andreeva sealed the set with her first love service game, complete with a pair of aces to close it.
The Russian maintained her momentum as she broke Sabalenka to love to open the third.&nbsp;Sabalenka promptly broke back, but that proved just a speedbump as Andreeva broke again for 2-1 and didn't face another break point.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports, Tennis: Russian teenager Mirra Andreeva ended a frustrating run against the Belarusian to ensure she will rise to a career-high sixth in the world

Russian 17-year-old Mirra Andreeva toppled world number one Aryna Sabalenka 2-6, 6-4, 6-3 on Sunday to capture her second WTA 1000 title at Indian Wells. Andreeva, who last month become the youngest ever player to win an elite 1000 level crown with her triumph in Dubai, ended a frustrating run against the Belarusian to ensure she will rise to a career-high sixth in the world on Monday. Andreeva shook off her first set woes and broke Sabalenka three times in the third pushing her 2025 record to 19-3 -- the most wins of any woman on the WTA tour. "I would like to thank myself for fighting to the end," Andreeva said. "I was running like a rabbit today because Aryna she was sending bullets and it was really hard to keep up." In a match of swinging shifts of momentum, Andreeva was in full control by the end, giving herself a match point on Sabalenka's serve with a defensive lob that forced a miss from the number one and clinching victory with a forehand winner. Also Read: PL: Arsenal close gap with leaders Liverpool after win over Chelsea; Fulham beat Spurs "The match point I just really tried to just put the return in, it doesn't matter how," she told Tennis Channel. "Then I just saw the ball and I decided I might just go for it. "And I did," added Andreeva, who sank to her knees in celebration after her winner landed. Andreeva claimed her first hard court victory over Sabalenka, who had beaten her twice already this year at Brisbane and the Australian Open. Sabalenka had powered into the final without dropping a set but it was another disappointment for the Belarusian, who was stunned by Madison Keys in the final at Melbourne to see her bid for a third successive Australian Open title denied. Unlike in Melbourne where she played "like a joke," Sabalenka said, this time she let her emotions get the best of her. "Honestly, was me against me," she said. "I made a lot of unforced errors on important points, and I just let her play a little bit better ... I was just too pissed with myself, because I think it shouldn't be the way I finished and I was just pissed with myself. "I should have just thrown that aggression on that side instead of being too hard on myself." Andreeva had Sabalenka under pressure early, and the youngster's frustration was evident as she was unable to convert four break points in the third game. Sabalenka took full advantage, breaking the Russian to love for a 3-1 lead and keeping her foot firmly on the accelerator from there. Anger boiling Sabalenka backed up her power from the baseline with some confident forays to the net, breaking Andreeva to take the opening set in 37 minutes. "The anger was just boiling inside of me, because I had a lot of opportunities I didn't convert," said Andreeva, who wasted another three break points to open the second set. She finally gained a foothold with a break for 2-1 -- pouncing on a Sabalenka second serve to end a run of 18 missed break point chances against the Belarusian this year. "I was so desperate to win at least one game on her serve ... every time she served I just tried to win one more game and then one more game," Andreeva said. "Somehow I kind of crawled and came back and we got into the third set like this." Andreeva saved a pair of break points to push her lead to 4-2, her winners tally climbing with her confidence. After missing one chance to take the set on Sabalenka's serve, Andreeva sealed the set with her first love service game, complete with a pair of aces to close it. The Russian maintained her momentum as she broke Sabalenka to love to open the third. Sabalenka promptly broke back, but that proved just a speedbump as Andreeva broke again for 2-1 and didn't face another break point. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Mirra Andreeva, 17, tops world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka for Indian Wells title

Carlos Alcaraz crashed out of his Indian Wells three-peat bid on Saturday, and nerves played a key role in "one of the worst sets I have played in my career." <o:p></o:p>
A four-time Grand Slam champion, Alcaraz said he was too focused on what weapons British left-hander Jack Draper might bring and unable to calm the pre-match jitters that prevented him from rising to the occasion.<o:p></o:p>
Draper, ranked 14th in the world, beat Alcaraz 6-1, 0-6, 6-4 to end the Spaniard's dream of joining Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic as the only men to win three straight titles in the California desert.<o:p></o:p>
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"Obviously I wanted to win the third in a row, but I can't pretend to win every match," Alcaraz said. "I am not as upset about not getting the third one in a row. I am upset about myself, about the way that I approached the match, the way that I felt during the whole day, that I couldn't calm down myself."<o:p></o:p>
"That's, for me, the most disappointed thing that I'm feeling right now, because (it) is probably one of the worst sets that I have played in my whole career, the first set."<o:p></o:p>
In a place he described this week as "peaceful," Alcaraz said he was on edge all day and warmed up poorly before the match.<o:p></o:p>
"I always say that I have to be focused on myself, on my own game. I think today I was more worried about his level, his game, than myself," he said.<o:p></o:p>
The result was an erratic effort from Alcaraz, who had sailed through his first three matches with the loss of just 10 games before pulling off a tighter quarter-final victory over Francisco Cerundolo in straight sets.<o:p></o:p>
The 21-year-old said he was still working to find ways to maintain his highest level more consistently.<o:p></o:p>
"I think I'm improving. I'm getting more mature," he said. "I still sometimes (am) playing such a really high level, and then my level goes down a lot.<o:p></o:p>
"So, I have to think about it. I have to keep working, keep going," added Alcaraz, who insisted he would shake off the defeat and be ready for the Miami Open this coming week.<o:p></o:p>
"I consider myself a person who learns from the fails, from the losses," he said. "The last time that I lost here was the semi-final (in 2022), and after all, I won Miami, so I think I will go for it.<o:p></o:p>
"I will make the most of myself in Miami."<o:p></o:p>
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Sports, Tennis: Draper, ranked 14th, beat Alcaraz to end the Spaniard's dream of joining Federer and Djokovic as the only men to win three straight titles in the California desert.

Carlos Alcaraz crashed out of his Indian Wells three-peat bid on Saturday, and nerves played a key role in "one of the worst sets I have played in my career." A four-time Grand Slam champion, Alcaraz said he was too focused on what weapons British left-hander Jack Draper might bring and unable to calm the pre-match jitters that prevented him from rising to the occasion. Draper, ranked 14th in the world, beat Alcaraz 6-1, 0-6, 6-4 to end the Spaniard's dream of joining Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic as the only men to win three straight titles in the California desert. Also read | U-15 table tennis championship to feature India’s top young players, global talent "Obviously I wanted to win the third in a row, but I can't pretend to win every match," Alcaraz said. "I am not as upset about not getting the third one in a row. I am upset about myself, about the way that I approached the match, the way that I felt during the whole day, that I couldn't calm down myself." "That's, for me, the most disappointed thing that I'm feeling right now, because (it) is probably one of the worst sets that I have played in my whole career, the first set." In a place he described this week as "peaceful," Alcaraz said he was on edge all day and warmed up poorly before the match. "I always say that I have to be focused on myself, on my own game. I think today I was more worried about his level, his game, than myself," he said. The result was an erratic effort from Alcaraz, who had sailed through his first three matches with the loss of just 10 games before pulling off a tighter quarter-final victory over Francisco Cerundolo in straight sets. The 21-year-old said he was still working to find ways to maintain his highest level more consistently. "I think I'm improving. I'm getting more mature," he said. "I still sometimes (am) playing such a really high level, and then my level goes down a lot. "So, I have to think about it. I have to keep working, keep going," added Alcaraz, who insisted he would shake off the defeat and be ready for the Miami Open this coming week. "I consider myself a person who learns from the fails, from the losses," he said. "The last time that I lost here was the semi-final (in 2022), and after all, I won Miami, so I think I will go for it. "I will make the most of myself in Miami." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Tennis: Carlos Alcaraz ‘upset with himself’ in nervy loss at Indian Wells

Aryna Sabalenka avenged her Australian Open loss to Madison Keys on Friday, thrashing the American 6-0, 6-1 to book an Indian Wells title showdown with teen sensation Mirra Andreeva.<o:p></o:p>
Red-hot Russian 17-year-old Andreeva showed plenty of poise in a 7-6 (7/1), 1-6, 6-3 victory over defending champion Iga Swiatek, ending the second-ranked Pole's bid to become the first woman to win three titles in the California desert.<o:p></o:p>
"I was hungry," said Sabalenka, who had made no bones about wanting revenge after Keys denied her bid for a third straight Australian Open title in January. "That Australian Open match was really heartbroken for me, and I really needed some time to recover after that.<o:p></o:p>
"And if I would lose today again, it would get in my head and I didn't want that to happen. I was really focused -- I was just really hungry to get this win against Madison."<o:p></o:p>
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Keys, who was riding a 16-match winning streak, couldn't get a foot in the door.<o:p></o:p>
Sabalenka was untroubled by the cold, swirling wind on Stadium Court as she won the first 11 games.<o:p></o:p>
"I think tactically I played really great tennis," said Sabalenka, adding her strategy was to "just keep her out of the rhythm".<o:p></o:p>
The mis-firing Keys finally held serve for 5-1 in the second, but minutes later Sabalenka sealed the win and lined up a shot at the WTA tour's newest sensation Andreeva in what 26-year-old Sabalenka quipped would be "kind of like an old mama playing against a kid".<o:p></o:p>
Andreeva beat Swiatek for the second time in as many tournaments, having stunned the Polish star in the quarter-finals at Dubai last month on the way to becoming the youngest ever WTA 1000 champion.<o:p></o:p>
Swiatek, who hadn't dropped a set in winning 10 straight Indian Wells matches, looked supremely confident as she dropped just one point in her first three service games.<o:p></o:p>
But it was Andreeva who claimed the first break of the tense first set for a 5-4 lead.<o:p></o:p>
<h2>Super comfortable<o:p></o:p></h2>
After Swiatek broke back and they reached the tiebreaker, Andreeva seized control, opening with a blistering backhand winner and pocketing the set on her first opportunity as Swiatek sent a backhand wide.<o:p></o:p>
"I felt like I'm gonna go and play the tiebreak like it's the last tiebreak of my life," she said. "So I just went for all my shots. My serve was great. I just felt super comfortable and confident," she said.<o:p></o:p>
Swiatek put her frustrations aside and broke Andreeva to open the second set, breaking her twice more as the Russian's errors multiplied under pressure from her opponent.<o:p></o:p>
"The second set, it was a bit weird," Andreeva said. "I just felt like she literally overplayed me, because she was playing pretty deep with good height over the net. It was really hard to do something with these shots."<o:p></o:p>
The roles reversed again, however, when Andreeva stepped up her attack and broke Swiatek to open the third, and she sealed the win with her third break of the set.<o:p></o:p>
"I just decided to kind of still play the same but maybe go for my shots more, trying to play a little bit more aggressive," she said. "I feel also that I was dealing with the nerves and the pressure pretty good, so I just feel proud of myself."
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Sports, Tennis: Runners-up in Women's Singles in Australian Open Aryna Sabalenka was untroubled by the cold, swirling wind on Stadium Court as she won the first 11 games.

Aryna Sabalenka avenged her Australian Open loss to Madison Keys on Friday, thrashing the American 6-0, 6-1 to book an Indian Wells title showdown with teen sensation Mirra Andreeva. Red-hot Russian 17-year-old Andreeva showed plenty of poise in a 7-6 (7/1), 1-6, 6-3 victory over defending champion Iga Swiatek, ending the second-ranked Pole's bid to become the first woman to win three titles in the California desert. "I was hungry," said Sabalenka, who had made no bones about wanting revenge after Keys denied her bid for a third straight Australian Open title in January. "That Australian Open match was really heartbroken for me, and I really needed some time to recover after that. "And if I would lose today again, it would get in my head and I didn't want that to happen. I was really focused -- I was just really hungry to get this win against Madison." Also read | Exclusive | India’s Grand Prix execution shows promise for future championships: WPA Keys, who was riding a 16-match winning streak, couldn't get a foot in the door. Sabalenka was untroubled by the cold, swirling wind on Stadium Court as she won the first 11 games. "I think tactically I played really great tennis," said Sabalenka, adding her strategy was to "just keep her out of the rhythm". The mis-firing Keys finally held serve for 5-1 in the second, but minutes later Sabalenka sealed the win and lined up a shot at the WTA tour's newest sensation Andreeva in what 26-year-old Sabalenka quipped would be "kind of like an old mama playing against a kid". Andreeva beat Swiatek for the second time in as many tournaments, having stunned the Polish star in the quarter-finals at Dubai last month on the way to becoming the youngest ever WTA 1000 champion. Swiatek, who hadn't dropped a set in winning 10 straight Indian Wells matches, looked supremely confident as she dropped just one point in her first three service games. But it was Andreeva who claimed the first break of the tense first set for a 5-4 lead. Super comfortable After Swiatek broke back and they reached the tiebreaker, Andreeva seized control, opening with a blistering backhand winner and pocketing the set on her first opportunity as Swiatek sent a backhand wide. "I felt like I'm gonna go and play the tiebreak like it's the last tiebreak of my life," she said. "So I just went for all my shots. My serve was great. I just felt super comfortable and confident," she said. Swiatek put her frustrations aside and broke Andreeva to open the second set, breaking her twice more as the Russian's errors multiplied under pressure from her opponent. "The second set, it was a bit weird," Andreeva said. "I just felt like she literally overplayed me, because she was playing pretty deep with good height over the net. It was really hard to do something with these shots." The roles reversed again, however, when Andreeva stepped up her attack and broke Swiatek to open the third, and she sealed the win with her third break of the set. "I just decided to kind of still play the same but maybe go for my shots more, trying to play a little bit more aggressive," she said. "I feel also that I was dealing with the nerves and the pressure pretty good, so I just feel proud of myself." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sabalenka avenges AO loss with straight-set win over Keys to reach Indian Wells final

Two-time defending champion <a href="www.wionews.com/tags/carlos-alcaraz">Carlos Alcaraz</a> powered past in-form Canadian Denis Shapovalov 6-2, 6-4 on Monday to continue his march toward a rare Indian Wells ATP Masters three-peat.
The world number three from Spain booked his place in the last 16 with a clinical victory, breaking Shapovalov in the opening game with a blistering forehand down the line as he roared to a 5-0 lead.
Alcaraz said the quick start was key against an opponent coming off a title in Dallas and a semi-final run in Acapulco.&nbsp;"I knew at the beginning of the match that I had to be really focused. I had to start the match really strong, knowing it was going to be a really tough battle," Alcaraz said.
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He saved three of the four break points he faced and converted four of his eight chances, sealing the match with an overhead that Shapovalov could barely get his racquet to.
Pleased with his performance, Alcaraz said there were still a few things he could improve as he tries to join Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic as the only men to win three straight titles in the California desert.
In other matches, world number four Taylor Fritz, the Indian Wells champion in 2022, said he "just stopped making super random mistakes" to turn things around in his 4-6, 6-3, 6-1 victory over Chilean Alejandro Tabilo.
"For the first set and a half, I just, for no reason, was just missing balls. I couldn't even imagine, I don't know why I was missing them," added the American, who had 43 unforced errors to 32 winners.
Argentina's Francisco Cerundolo beat Botic van de Zandschulp 6-3, 6-4, ending the run of the Dutch lucky loser who toppled 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic in the second round.&nbsp;Cerundolo next plays Australian ninth seed Alex De Minaur, who cruised past Hubert Hurkacz 6-4, 6-0 to post his 50th match win at the Masters 1000 level.
<h2>Sabalenka, Keys and Gauff sail through</h2>
While upsets have claimed men's top seed Alexander Zverev, fourth seed Casper Ruud and number six Djokovic, the top five women's seeds are all safely into the fourth round after victories for world number one <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/aryna-sabalenka">Aryna Sabalenka</a>, third-ranked Coco Gauff and fifth-ranked Australian Open champion <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/madison-keys">Madison Keys</a> on Monday.
Sabalenka said her 6-1, 6-2 victory over 62nd-ranked Lucia Bronzetti wasn't as easy as it looked, thanks in part to the unpredictable Stadium Court wind.
"I had to fight for every point and I'm super happy with the win," said Sabalenka who next faces British lucky loser Sonay Kartal, who beat Polina Kudermetova 7-5, 6-3.
Keys's struggles were obvious, but the American who shocked Sabalenka in the Melbourne final gutted out a 6-2, 6-7 (8/10), 6-4 victory over Elise Mertens.
Unable to convert two match points as she served at 5-3 in the second set, Keys blew two more in the tiebreaker before finally polishing off the 28th seed from Belgium in two hours and 48 minutes.
"It's just about surviving," said Keys, who admitted she was finding it tricky to manage her own expectations in her first tournament since capturing her maiden major.
"Today, obviously, I don't think I played my best level, and I think that was more frustrating just because I'm starting to expect a little bit more of myself," she said.
Gauff cleaned up her service game to pull off a 7-6 (7/1), 6-2 victory over Greece's Maria Sakkari -- who beat Gauff in the semi-finals last year on the way to a second Indian Wells final in three years.
After producing 21 double faults in a three-set victory over Moyuka Uchijima, Gauff had just nine -- six of them in a shaky final game.
"Resilience I guess," Gauff said of what she'll take from the win. "Overall it was much better than the previous match."
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Sports, Tennis: Alcaraz booked his place in the last 16 with a clinical win, breaking Shapovalov in opening game with a blistering forehand down the line as he roared to a 5-0 lead

Two-time defending champion Carlos Alcaraz powered past in-form Canadian Denis Shapovalov 6-2, 6-4 on Monday to continue his march toward a rare Indian Wells ATP Masters three-peat. The world number three from Spain booked his place in the last 16 with a clinical victory, breaking Shapovalov in the opening game with a blistering forehand down the line as he roared to a 5-0 lead. Alcaraz said the quick start was key against an opponent coming off a title in Dallas and a semi-final run in Acapulco. "I knew at the beginning of the match that I had to be really focused. I had to start the match really strong, knowing it was going to be a really tough battle," Alcaraz said. Also Read: Low turnout, athlete withdrawals cast shadow over India's World Para Athletics Grand Prix 2025 He saved three of the four break points he faced and converted four of his eight chances, sealing the match with an overhead that Shapovalov could barely get his racquet to. Pleased with his performance, Alcaraz said there were still a few things he could improve as he tries to join Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic as the only men to win three straight titles in the California desert. In other matches, world number four Taylor Fritz, the Indian Wells champion in 2022, said he "just stopped making super random mistakes" to turn things around in his 4-6, 6-3, 6-1 victory over Chilean Alejandro Tabilo. "For the first set and a half, I just, for no reason, was just missing balls. I couldn't even imagine, I don't know why I was missing them," added the American, who had 43 unforced errors to 32 winners. Argentina's Francisco Cerundolo beat Botic van de Zandschulp 6-3, 6-4, ending the run of the Dutch lucky loser who toppled 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic in the second round. Cerundolo next plays Australian ninth seed Alex De Minaur, who cruised past Hubert Hurkacz 6-4, 6-0 to post his 50th match win at the Masters 1000 level. Sabalenka, Keys and Gauff sail through While upsets have claimed men's top seed Alexander Zverev, fourth seed Casper Ruud and number six Djokovic, the top five women's seeds are all safely into the fourth round after victories for world number one Aryna Sabalenka, third-ranked Coco Gauff and fifth-ranked Australian Open champion Madison Keys on Monday. Sabalenka said her 6-1, 6-2 victory over 62nd-ranked Lucia Bronzetti wasn't as easy as it looked, thanks in part to the unpredictable Stadium Court wind. "I had to fight for every point and I'm super happy with the win," said Sabalenka who next faces British lucky loser Sonay Kartal, who beat Polina Kudermetova 7-5, 6-3. Keys's struggles were obvious, but the American who shocked Sabalenka in the Melbourne final gutted out a 6-2, 6-7 (8/10), 6-4 victory over Elise Mertens. Unable to convert two match points as she served at 5-3 in the second set, Keys blew two more in the tiebreaker before finally polishing off the 28th seed from Belgium in two hours and 48 minutes. "It's just about surviving," said Keys, who admitted she was finding it tricky to manage her own expectations in her first tournament since capturing her maiden major. "Today, obviously, I don't think I played my best level, and I think that was more frustrating just because I'm starting to expect a little bit more of myself," she said. Gauff cleaned up her service game to pull off a 7-6 (7/1), 6-2 victory over Greece's Maria Sakkari -- who beat Gauff in the semi-finals last year on the way to a second Indian Wells final in three years. After producing 21 double faults in a three-set victory over Moyuka Uchijima, Gauff had just nine -- six of them in a shaky final game. "Resilience I guess," Gauff said of what she'll take from the win. "Overall it was much better than the previous match." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Alcaraz powers into Indian Wells last 16; Sabalenka, Gauff, Keys advance

Five-time champion <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/novak-djokovic">Novak Djokovic</a> crashed out in his Indian Wells ATP Masters opener on Saturday, just the latest proof that 'things are different' now for the 24-time Grand Slam champion.
Djokovic had 37 unforced errors and was helpless as Dutch lucky loser Botic van de Zandschulp won the last five games to triumph 6-2, 3-6, 6-1.&nbsp;The Serbian star had hoped that the addition of old rival <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/andy-murray">Andy Murray</a> as his coach would help him go deep into a tournament he last won in 2016.
Instead it was an earlier exit than his third-round loss to lucky loser Luca Nardi last year.&nbsp;"You know, things are different obviously for me the last couple of years," the 37-year-old said.
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"I've been struggling to play on the desired level. Every now and then, I have couple good tournaments, but, you know, mostly it's really a challenge. It's a struggle for me.
"So it is what it is. I guess nothing can prepare you for that moment, in a sense. You have to experience it and try to deal with it in the best possible way."
Forced out of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/australia-open">Australian Open</a> semi-finals with a hamstring injury, Djokovic dropped his first match at his comeback event in Qatar last month.
Asked if any physical problem hindered him on Saturday, Djokovic deflected the question.
"I mean, it's always something happening, but I don't want to talk about it," he said. "No excuses for a poor performance ... just a bad day in the office, I guess, for me."
It was another big win for van de Zandschulp, who stunned <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/carlos-alcaraz">Carlos Alcaraz</a> at the US Open last year before beating Rafael Nadal in Davis Cup in the Spanish great's last match.
After 14 unforced errors in the first set, Djokovic cleaned things up the second, grabbing a quick break on the way to a 3-0 lead.&nbsp;Djokovic pumped his fist after belting a forehand winner to the corner for his first break chance of the match and after consolidating the break nodded his head in satisfaction.
However, van de Zandschulp wasn't about to go quietly and the rallies remained tense affairs.
Trailing 0-40 in the sixth game of the second set, Djokovic clawed out another break in a game that went to deuce five times, but he was broken as he served for the set, gifting van de Zandschulp a third break opportunity with a forehand miss.
<h2>Awful mistakes</h2>
Clearly frustrated at times, Djokovic muscled a forehand winner to the baseline to secure the second set and level the match.&nbsp;It was only a brief respite. Van de Zandschulp kept the pressure on both from the baseline and at the net and Djokovic's errors began to pile up again.&nbsp;Van de Zandschulp took control in the third with a break for 3-1, winning the last five games.
"The first three games, four games of the third set were quite close," Djokovic said. "Had my chances. Was just some awful mistakes.
"When I reflect on this match, obviously I'll see a little bit more what I could have done more.&nbsp;"He played, I think, some really good points to break my serve. But just putting myself in that position, I shouldn't allow myself to do that."
Djokovic said he didn't know if he would head immediately to Miami to begin preparations for the Miami Open starting March 19.&nbsp;"I still haven't talked with Andy and the team, so going to do that and make a plan," he said.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports, Tennis: Djokovic had 37 unforced errors and was helpless as Dutch lucky loser Botic van de Zandschulp won the last five games to triumph 6-2, 3-6, 6-1.

Five-time champion Novak Djokovic crashed out in his Indian Wells ATP Masters opener on Saturday, just the latest proof that 'things are different' now for the 24-time Grand Slam champion. Djokovic had 37 unforced errors and was helpless as Dutch lucky loser Botic van de Zandschulp won the last five games to triumph 6-2, 3-6, 6-1. The Serbian star had hoped that the addition of old rival Andy Murray as his coach would help him go deep into a tournament he last won in 2016. Instead it was an earlier exit than his third-round loss to lucky loser Luca Nardi last year. "You know, things are different obviously for me the last couple of years," the 37-year-old said. Also Read: Salah, Nunez complete Liverpool fight back as Reds close in on PL title "I've been struggling to play on the desired level. Every now and then, I have couple good tournaments, but, you know, mostly it's really a challenge. It's a struggle for me. "So it is what it is. I guess nothing can prepare you for that moment, in a sense. You have to experience it and try to deal with it in the best possible way." Forced out of the Australian Open semi-finals with a hamstring injury, Djokovic dropped his first match at his comeback event in Qatar last month. Asked if any physical problem hindered him on Saturday, Djokovic deflected the question. "I mean, it's always something happening, but I don't want to talk about it," he said. "No excuses for a poor performance ... just a bad day in the office, I guess, for me." It was another big win for van de Zandschulp, who stunned Carlos Alcaraz at the US Open last year before beating Rafael Nadal in Davis Cup in the Spanish great's last match. After 14 unforced errors in the first set, Djokovic cleaned things up the second, grabbing a quick break on the way to a 3-0 lead. Djokovic pumped his fist after belting a forehand winner to the corner for his first break chance of the match and after consolidating the break nodded his head in satisfaction. However, van de Zandschulp wasn't about to go quietly and the rallies remained tense affairs. Trailing 0-40 in the sixth game of the second set, Djokovic clawed out another break in a game that went to deuce five times, but he was broken as he served for the set, gifting van de Zandschulp a third break opportunity with a forehand miss. Awful mistakes Clearly frustrated at times, Djokovic muscled a forehand winner to the baseline to secure the second set and level the match. It was only a brief respite. Van de Zandschulp kept the pressure on both from the baseline and at the net and Djokovic's errors began to pile up again. Van de Zandschulp took control in the third with a break for 3-1, winning the last five games. "The first three games, four games of the third set were quite close," Djokovic said. "Had my chances. Was just some awful mistakes. "When I reflect on this match, obviously I'll see a little bit more what I could have done more. "He played, I think, some really good points to break my serve. But just putting myself in that position, I shouldn't allow myself to do that." Djokovic said he didn't know if he would head immediately to Miami to begin preparations for the Miami Open starting March 19. "I still haven't talked with Andy and the team, so going to do that and make a plan," he said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

'Things are different', says Djokovic after another early exit at Indian Wells

Czech Tomas Machac stunned Russian fifth seed Andrey Rublev in straight seeds to advance to the Miami Open third round on Friday (March 22).

Machac, ranked 60th in the world, powered to a 6-4 6-4 victory just before a heavy downpour caused the suspension of play, with rain having initially delayed the start of action by over six hours.

Frenchman Ugo Humbert, seeded 14th, also booked his spot in the next round with a 6-4 6-3 win over the Netherlands’ Botic van de Zandschulp.

World number two Aryna Sabalenka made a stoic return to the court on Friday (March 22) as she eased past Paula Badosa 6-4 6-3 to reach the third round of the Miami Open just days after the death by apparent suicide of her former boyfriend Konstantin Koltsov.

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A difficult week for the 25-year-old Belarusian, who had received a first round bye, was made a little bit longer as heavy rains swept across South Florida, delaying the start of play by just over six hours.

While clearly not at her sharpest, the Australian Open champion still seemed relieved to be back on the court and she made quick work of her Spanish opponent as dark clouds again threatened to halt action.

In other action, third seeded American Coco Gauff sped into the third round with 6-1 6-2 demolition of Argentine qualifier Nadia Podoroska.

Czech Tomas Machac stunned Russian fifth seed Andrey Rublev in straight seeds to advance to the Miami Open third round on Friday (March 22). Machac, ranked 60th in the world, powered to a 6-4 6-4 victory just before a heavy downpour caused the suspension of play, with rain having initially delayed the start of action by over six hours.

Czech Tomas Machac stunned Russian fifth seed Andrey Rublev in straight seeds to advance to the Miami Open third round on Friday (March 22). Machac, ranked 60th in the world, powered to a 6-4 6-4 victory just before a heavy downpour caused the suspension of play, with rain having initially delayed the start of action by over six hours. Frenchman Ugo Humbert, seeded 14th, also booked his spot in the next round with a 6-4 6-3 win over the Netherlands’ Botic van de Zandschulp. World number two Aryna Sabalenka made a stoic return to the court on Friday (March 22) as she eased past Paula Badosa 6-4 6-3 to reach the third round of the Miami Open just days after the death by apparent suicide of her former boyfriend Konstantin Koltsov. ALSO READ | 'Andrew Flintoff is a leader like Stokes, he’d be an excellent head coach one day,' says ECB’s Robert Key A difficult week for the 25-year-old Belarusian, who had received a first round bye, was made a little bit longer as heavy rains swept across South Florida, delaying the start of play by just over six hours. While clearly not at her sharpest, the Australian Open champion still seemed relieved to be back on the court and she made quick work of her Spanish opponent as dark clouds again threatened to halt action. In other action, third seeded American Coco Gauff sped into the third round with 6-1 6-2 demolition of Argentine qualifier Nadia Podoroska.

Tennis: Andrey Rublev ousted before rain suspends play, Aryna Sabalenka makes a winning Miami Open start

Britain's Emma Raducanu has withdrawn from the Miami Open with a lower back injury, tournament organisers said on Tuesday, in the latest setback for the 21-year-old.

Raducanu spent eight months out with wrist and ankle problems last year but returned to action in January and had an encouraging performance at Indian Wells last week where she reached the third round.

"I have been experiencing lower back pain and at this stage of my return to competition I don’t want to risk anything happening," said Raducanu.

"I really tried my best to be ready and I’m sad to be pulling out of Miami as it’s a cool tournament but wish the event all the best."

The 2021 US Open winner, a wildcard entry at Miami, was scheduled to play China's Wang Xiyu in the first round on Tuesday.

Raducanu had surgeries on her ankle and both wrists during last year.

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She was beaten in the Indian Wells third round by world number two Aryna Sabalenka.

Wang will now face Slovakian qualifier Anna Karolina Schmiedlova.

Tuesday's action sees Romanian Simona Halep return to action after her four-year doping ban was reduced to nine months and she was cleared by the Court of Arbitration for Sport for an immediate return.

Halep, given a wildcard entry, will take on Spain's Paula Badosa.

Venus Williams takes on Russian Diana Shnaider in the first round.

Britain's Emma Raducanu has withdrawn from the Miami Open with a lower back injury, tournament organisers said on Tuesday, in the latest setback for the 21-year-old.

Britain's Emma Raducanu has withdrawn from the Miami Open with a lower back injury, tournament organisers said on Tuesday, in the latest setback for the 21-year-old. Raducanu spent eight months out with wrist and ankle problems last year but returned to action in January and had an encouraging performance at Indian Wells last week where she reached the third round. "I have been experiencing lower back pain and at this stage of my return to competition I don’t want to risk anything happening," said Raducanu. "I really tried my best to be ready and I’m sad to be pulling out of Miami as it’s a cool tournament but wish the event all the best." The 2021 US Open winner, a wildcard entry at Miami, was scheduled to play China's Wang Xiyu in the first round on Tuesday. Raducanu had surgeries on her ankle and both wrists during last year. ALSO READ | Fans in Hong Kong to receive 50% refund after Lionel Messi's absence during Inter Miami friendly She was beaten in the Indian Wells third round by world number two Aryna Sabalenka. Wang will now face Slovakian qualifier Anna Karolina Schmiedlova. Tuesday's action sees Romanian Simona Halep return to action after her four-year doping ban was reduced to nine months and she was cleared by the Court of Arbitration for Sport for an immediate return. Halep, given a wildcard entry, will take on Spain's Paula Badosa. Venus Williams takes on Russian Diana Shnaider in the first round.

Tennis: Britain’s Emma Raducanu withdraws from Miami Open with lower back injury

Carlos Alcaraz successfully defended his Indian Wells crown with a 7-6(5) 6-1 win over Daniil Medvedev in the final on Sunday (March 17).

In a rematch of last year's final, Alcaraz started sloppily, spraying errors around the court to fall 3-0 down but raised his level and captured the first set when his Russian opponent's forehand went wide in the tiebreak.

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The Spaniard romped through the second set, raising his arms in the air and letting out a roar when Medvedev missed another forehand wide on match point.

Second seed Alcaraz smacked 25 winners to Medvedev's 11 and was especially effective against his opponent's second serves.

It was an eventful stay in the California desert for the 20-year-old Alcaraz.

The two-time major champion was stung on the forehead when a swarm of bees invaded the court on Thursday, kept his number two ranking by ending Jannik Sinner's 19-match winning streak in the semis and slayed the big-serving fourth seed Medvedev in the final.

Swiatek&nbsp;wins women's singles

Iga Swiatek beat Maria Sakkari 6-4 6-0 in the Indian Wells final on Sunday (March 17) to claim the title for a second time in the California desert.

In a rematch of the 2022 final, world number one Swiatek came out firing, building a 3-0 lead before Sakkari worked her way back into the set for 4-4.

But on her third set point, the Pole dragged Sakkari from one side of the court to the other before capturing the opener with a forehand winner.

Swiatek, who did not drop a set all tournament, dominated the second, crushing a running backhand for a 3-0 lead and then breaking serve for 4-0 as the outmatched Greek began to fade.

A backhand winner down the line put Swiatek a game away and the top seed sealed the win by breaking serve to love when Sakkari's forehand sailed wide on match point.

Swiatek is now 19-4 in her career finals and 8-2 at the WTA 1000 level.

Carlos Alcaraz successfully defended his Indian Wells crown with a 7-6(5) 6-1 win over Daniil Medvedev in the final on Sunday (March 17). In a rematch of last year's final, Alcaraz started sloppily, spraying errors around the court to fall 3-0 down but raised his level and captured the first set when his Russian opponent's forehand went wide in the tiebreak.

Carlos Alcaraz successfully defended his Indian Wells crown with a 7-6(5) 6-1 win over Daniil Medvedev in the final on Sunday (March 17). In a rematch of last year's final, Alcaraz started sloppily, spraying errors around the court to fall 3-0 down but raised his level and captured the first set when his Russian opponent's forehand went wide in the tiebreak. Also Read: Stoppage time goals help Chelsea mat Leicester at home to book FA semis ticket The Spaniard romped through the second set, raising his arms in the air and letting out a roar when Medvedev missed another forehand wide on match point. Second seed Alcaraz smacked 25 winners to Medvedev's 11 and was especially effective against his opponent's second serves. It was an eventful stay in the California desert for the 20-year-old Alcaraz. The two-time major champion was stung on the forehead when a swarm of bees invaded the court on Thursday, kept his number two ranking by ending Jannik Sinner's 19-match winning streak in the semis and slayed the big-serving fourth seed Medvedev in the final. Swiatek wins women's singles Iga Swiatek beat Maria Sakkari 6-4 6-0 in the Indian Wells final on Sunday (March 17) to claim the title for a second time in the California desert. In a rematch of the 2022 final, world number one Swiatek came out firing, building a 3-0 lead before Sakkari worked her way back into the set for 4-4. But on her third set point, the Pole dragged Sakkari from one side of the court to the other before capturing the opener with a forehand winner. Swiatek, who did not drop a set all tournament, dominated the second, crushing a running backhand for a 3-0 lead and then breaking serve for 4-0 as the outmatched Greek began to fade. A backhand winner down the line put Swiatek a game away and the top seed sealed the win by breaking serve to love when Sakkari's forehand sailed wide on match point. Swiatek is now 19-4 in her career finals and 8-2 at the WTA 1000 level.

Tennis: Carlos Alcaraz defends Indian Wells title with win over Daniil Medvedev

Carlos Alcaraz looked back at his best as he swatted aside a swarm of bees and world number six Alexander Zverev to reach the semi-finals at Indian Wells on Thursday (March 14), setting up a clash with the in-form Jannik Sinner.

The world number two took the interruption to clear the bees from the court in his stride before racing past Zverev 6-3 6-1 in little more than 90 minutes to keep his title defense on track.

Zverev did not play badly but Alcaraz's all-court game was just too good, the 20-year-old Spaniard sealing the victory by breaking the German for the fourth time and taking his winning streak in the Californian desert to 10 matches.

"It was strange, I've never seen something like that at a tennis match," twice major champion Alcaraz said of the invasion of the bees.

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"I'm not going to lie, I'm a little bit afraid of the bees. Once the match started again, I managed to stay away from the bees and do the things I needed to do."

Italian Sinner earlier continued his perfect start to the season by cruising past Jiri Lehecka 6-3 6-3 to improve his win-loss record this year to 16-0.

A windy, cool day did little to slow down the hottest player on the men's tour as Sinner was in control throughout, facing a single break chance the entire contest while his opponent piled up unforced errors.

Local hope Tommy Paul also reached the semi-finals with a 6-2 1-6 6-3 win over Casper Ruud. He will play the winner of the remaining quarter-final between Daniil Medvedev and Holger Rune.

Carlos Alcaraz looked back at his best as he swatted aside a swarm of bees and world number six Alexander Zverev to reach the semi-finals at Indian Wells on Thursday (March 14), setting up a clash with the in-form Jannik Sinner.

Carlos Alcaraz looked back at his best as he swatted aside a swarm of bees and world number six Alexander Zverev to reach the semi-finals at Indian Wells on Thursday (March 14), setting up a clash with the in-form Jannik Sinner. The world number two took the interruption to clear the bees from the court in his stride before racing past Zverev 6-3 6-1 in little more than 90 minutes to keep his title defense on track. Zverev did not play badly but Alcaraz's all-court game was just too good, the 20-year-old Spaniard sealing the victory by breaking the German for the fourth time and taking his winning streak in the Californian desert to 10 matches. "It was strange, I've never seen something like that at a tennis match," twice major champion Alcaraz said of the invasion of the bees. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup 2024: ICC to release additional tickets for 13 matches on March 19 "I'm not going to lie, I'm a little bit afraid of the bees. Once the match started again, I managed to stay away from the bees and do the things I needed to do." Italian Sinner earlier continued his perfect start to the season by cruising past Jiri Lehecka 6-3 6-3 to improve his win-loss record this year to 16-0. A windy, cool day did little to slow down the hottest player on the men's tour as Sinner was in control throughout, facing a single break chance the entire contest while his opponent piled up unforced errors. Local hope Tommy Paul also reached the semi-finals with a 6-2 1-6 6-3 win over Casper Ruud. He will play the winner of the remaining quarter-final between Daniil Medvedev and Holger Rune.

Tennis: Carlos Alcaraz overcomes bees and Alexander Zverev to advance to Indian Wells semis

Third seed Coco Gauff served up 17 double faults but still managed to beat China's Yuan Yue 6-4 6-3 at Indian Wells on Thursday to reach the semi-finals in the Californian desert for the first time. A day after her 20th birthday, Gauff had to rally from 3-1 down in the second set before setting up a clash with ninth seed Maria Sakkari, who ended American Emma Navarro's run with a 5-7 6-2 6-4 victory.

"I'm really happy to be through today's match," said one-time teen prodigy Gauff. "It wasn't the best style of the serving, but overall I think when it comes to the groundstroke game and returns, everything else, honestly, I played well. I'll just try and take the positives into the next match."

Gauff, who said she celebrated her birthday with steak tacos, saved seven of the 10 break points she faced over the match, including three to avoid going 4-1 down in the second set. "I pretty much just relied on me just out-rallying her and being aggressive," Gauff added. "I think a lot of break points that were saved, at least in that second set, I just remember hitting a lot of forehand winners."

Gauff joined Iga Swiatek and Caroline Wozniacki as the only players to have reached five WTA 1000 semi-finals before the age of 21.

Top seed Swiatek earlier also reached the semi-finals after former world number one Wozniacki retired with a foot injury early in the second set of their quarter-final. Wozniacki started strongly as she raced into a 4-1 lead but she was soon left frustrated as Swiatek produced a barrage of winners to storm back and win the set 6-4.

The Dane, who returned to the circuit last year after taking a three-year break to start a family, had a medical timeout to have her right foot re-strapped at the end of the first set. That failed to improve the situation, however, and she gestured to her opponent that she was unable to continue once Swiatek had taken a 1-0 lead in the second.

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"I have a huge respect for her and I'm sad she has to go that way, I'm sure she will recover and I hope she will be ready for Miami," Swiatek said. "But I'm happy that I played well enough in first set to win it."

Swiatek, the 2022 champion, will face Marta Kostyuk in the semi-finals after the Ukrainian defeated Anastasia Potapova 6-0 7-5. "Let's not put expectations too high," world number 32 Kostyuk said of her meeting with Swiatek. "She's a great competitor, she's been on top of the game for two years already."

Sakkari, who is working with new coach David Witt for the first time at Indian Wells after a patchy run of results, closed out the evening with a comeback win over Navarro to reach the semi-finals of the tournament for a third straight year.

"That was the toughest match I've played in a while," said Sakkari. "Emma is an incredible player ... She's been playing amazing. It's a huge win. I'm very happy I found a way to win this match today."

Third seed Coco Gauff served up 17 double faults but still managed to beat China's Yuan Yue 6-4 6-3 at Indian Wells on Thursday to reach the semi-finals in the Californian desert for the first time.

Third seed Coco Gauff served up 17 double faults but still managed to beat China's Yuan Yue 6-4 6-3 at Indian Wells on Thursday to reach the semi-finals in the Californian desert for the first time. A day after her 20th birthday, Gauff had to rally from 3-1 down in the second set before setting up a clash with ninth seed Maria Sakkari, who ended American Emma Navarro's run with a 5-7 6-2 6-4 victory. "I'm really happy to be through today's match," said one-time teen prodigy Gauff. "It wasn't the best style of the serving, but overall I think when it comes to the groundstroke game and returns, everything else, honestly, I played well. I'll just try and take the positives into the next match." Gauff, who said she celebrated her birthday with steak tacos, saved seven of the 10 break points she faced over the match, including three to avoid going 4-1 down in the second set. "I pretty much just relied on me just out-rallying her and being aggressive," Gauff added. "I think a lot of break points that were saved, at least in that second set, I just remember hitting a lot of forehand winners." Gauff joined Iga Swiatek and Caroline Wozniacki as the only players to have reached five WTA 1000 semi-finals before the age of 21. Top seed Swiatek earlier also reached the semi-finals after former world number one Wozniacki retired with a foot injury early in the second set of their quarter-final. Wozniacki started strongly as she raced into a 4-1 lead but she was soon left frustrated as Swiatek produced a barrage of winners to storm back and win the set 6-4. The Dane, who returned to the circuit last year after taking a three-year break to start a family, had a medical timeout to have her right foot re-strapped at the end of the first set. That failed to improve the situation, however, and she gestured to her opponent that she was unable to continue once Swiatek had taken a 1-0 lead in the second. Also read: Tennis: Carlos Alcaraz overcomes bees and Alexander Zverev to advance to Indian Wells semis "I have a huge respect for her and I'm sad she has to go that way, I'm sure she will recover and I hope she will be ready for Miami," Swiatek said. "But I'm happy that I played well enough in first set to win it." Swiatek, the 2022 champion, will face Marta Kostyuk in the semi-finals after the Ukrainian defeated Anastasia Potapova 6-0 7-5. "Let's not put expectations too high," world number 32 Kostyuk said of her meeting with Swiatek. "She's a great competitor, she's been on top of the game for two years already." Sakkari, who is working with new coach David Witt for the first time at Indian Wells after a patchy run of results, closed out the evening with a comeback win over Navarro to reach the semi-finals of the tournament for a third straight year. "That was the toughest match I've played in a while," said Sakkari. "Emma is an incredible player ... She's been playing amazing. It's a huge win. I'm very happy I found a way to win this match today."

Tennis: Error-prone Coco Gauff, Iga Swiatek enter Indian Wells semifinals

Holger Rune rallied from a set down and saved a match point to defeat former champion Taylor Fritz 2-6 7-6(2) 6-3 on Wednesday and reach the Indian Wells quarter-finals where he will meet fourth seed Daniil Medvedev. Rune surrendered the opening set in 32 minutes and looked down for the count when 2022 winner Fritz went up 5-4 and 40-30 in the next, but the seventh-seeded Dane produced a vital hold before forcing a tiebreak.

The 20-year-old stepped up a gear to level the contest at one set all and broke his American opponent for the first time with some blistering shotmaking for a 3-1 lead in the decider. With Fritz wilting in the California desert, Rune completed the comeback by closing out the match on serve, finishing with a fiery forehand winner.

"It was crazy. I really just stayed in the moment and kept fighting, trying to play better point to point and I managed to raise my level quite amazingly at the end of the second set, which meant everything for the match," Rune said.

"He was controlling it in the first set and for a long time in the second as well, so I'm just happy I could keep fighting. I kept believing I was going to find my rhythm at some point. It was on the edge but I managed to find it, which was nice."

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Up next for Rune is last year's runner-up Medvedev, who outclassed Grigor Dimitrov 6-4 6-4 with a near-flawless display to stay on course for his first title of the year after falling in the Australian Open final.

Rune, who split his two career meetings with the Russian last year, said he would come out all guns blazing.

"I'm a player that's going to attack. I don't care who I play, I'm going to attack anyways," Rune said. "Against Daniil it's a completely different match from today. The only similarity between him and Fritz have is the big serve. Fritz is close to the baseline while Medvedev is far. "Medvedev on this surface is dangerous like Fritz. I'm just going to recover and believe in myself like I did today."

Earlier, Casper Ruud ended Frenchman Gael Monfils's run with a 3-6 7-6(3) 6-4 victory and plays Tommy Paul after the American brought lucky loser Luca Nardi back down to Earth. After struggling to put winners past the athletic Monfils in the first set, the Norwegian ninth seed became more aggressive in a tight second and rolled through the tiebreak.

Ruud finally broke his 37-year-old opponent for a 3-1 lead in the deciding set and cruised to the finish. A nice moment came when Monfils walked to the service line trailing 3-5 in the third and the crowd rose to cheer on the fan favourite, who smiled and waved his racket in appreciation before holding serve.

After stunning his idol Novak Djokovic on Monday, 20-year-old Italian Nardi was served a dose of reality by Paul, who hit five aces and never dropped serve en route to a 6-4 6-3 win.

Holger Rune rallied from a set down and saved a match point to defeat former champion Taylor Fritz 2-6 7-6(2) 6-3 on Wednesday and reach the Indian Wells quarter-finals where he will meet fourth seed Daniil Medvedev.

Holger Rune rallied from a set down and saved a match point to defeat former champion Taylor Fritz 2-6 7-6(2) 6-3 on Wednesday and reach the Indian Wells quarter-finals where he will meet fourth seed Daniil Medvedev. Rune surrendered the opening set in 32 minutes and looked down for the count when 2022 winner Fritz went up 5-4 and 40-30 in the next, but the seventh-seeded Dane produced a vital hold before forcing a tiebreak. The 20-year-old stepped up a gear to level the contest at one set all and broke his American opponent for the first time with some blistering shotmaking for a 3-1 lead in the decider. With Fritz wilting in the California desert, Rune completed the comeback by closing out the match on serve, finishing with a fiery forehand winner. "It was crazy. I really just stayed in the moment and kept fighting, trying to play better point to point and I managed to raise my level quite amazingly at the end of the second set, which meant everything for the match," Rune said. "He was controlling it in the first set and for a long time in the second as well, so I'm just happy I could keep fighting. I kept believing I was going to find my rhythm at some point. It was on the edge but I managed to find it, which was nice." Also read: Golf: PGA Tour and PIF talks accelerating but issues remain, claims Jay Monahan Up next for Rune is last year's runner-up Medvedev, who outclassed Grigor Dimitrov 6-4 6-4 with a near-flawless display to stay on course for his first title of the year after falling in the Australian Open final. Rune, who split his two career meetings with the Russian last year, said he would come out all guns blazing. "I'm a player that's going to attack. I don't care who I play, I'm going to attack anyways," Rune said. "Against Daniil it's a completely different match from today. The only similarity between him and Fritz have is the big serve. Fritz is close to the baseline while Medvedev is far. "Medvedev on this surface is dangerous like Fritz. I'm just going to recover and believe in myself like I did today." Earlier, Casper Ruud ended Frenchman Gael Monfils's run with a 3-6 7-6(3) 6-4 victory and plays Tommy Paul after the American brought lucky loser Luca Nardi back down to Earth. After struggling to put winners past the athletic Monfils in the first set, the Norwegian ninth seed became more aggressive in a tight second and rolled through the tiebreak. Ruud finally broke his 37-year-old opponent for a 3-1 lead in the deciding set and cruised to the finish. A nice moment came when Monfils walked to the service line trailing 3-5 in the third and the crowd rose to cheer on the fan favourite, who smiled and waved his racket in appreciation before holding serve. After stunning his idol Novak Djokovic on Monday, 20-year-old Italian Nardi was served a dose of reality by Paul, who hit five aces and never dropped serve en route to a 6-4 6-3 win.

Tennis: Holger Rune battles past Taylor Fritz to set up Daniil Medvedev showdown at Indian Wells

Top seed Iga Swiatek swatted aside Yulia Putintseva 6-1 6-2 on Tuesday to set up an Indian Wells quarter-final clash with former world number one Caroline Wozniacki. Swiatek got off to a slow start and saved four break points in the third game before finding her groove. The Pole then raced to a 5-1 lead, prompting Putintseva to throw her racket to the floor in frustration, before wrapping the opener up in less than 30 minutes.

Swiatek, the 2022 champion, made early inroads in the second set and while Putintseva started going for her shots more the 22-year-old world number one proved too strong for her Kazakh opponent. "I knew I had to keep my focus (in the second set), she was trying different stuff out there," said Swiatek, who dropped serve twice in the second frame. "But I just really wanted to play my game and focus on what I want to do. I'm glad I did that."

Wozniacki, who returned to the tour last year after stepping away from the sport in 2020 to start a family, eased past fellow mother Angelique Kerber 6-4 6-2 earlier in the day. "She's a really experienced player," Swiatek said of the 2011 champion. "I think she's playing great after her maternity break, she was fighting to come back. "I have huge respect. It's going to be a nice match."

Wozniacki said she was relishing the opportunity to continue her run at Indian Wells, after making the quarters for the first time in four years. "I'm just enjoying myself and I'm just thrilled I get another match in front of all of you guys," she said.

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Ukrainian Marta Kostyuk defeated Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova 6-4 6-1 and next meets another Russian in Anastasia Potapova, who beat Jasmine Paolini 7-5 0-6 6-3. Kostyuk dropped only four points on serve in the match and broke Pavlyuchenkova five times to reach her first quarter-final at a WTA 1000 event. Kostyuk had edged Pavlyuchenkova in a three-setter in San Diego earlier this month but had an easier time in their fourth round battle.

"It definitely helped that I played her (recently)," the 21-year-old Kostyuk, who reached the Australian Open quarters in January for her best result at a Grand Slam, told the Tennis Channel. "The conditions were much better for my game here, the ball bounces much higher and it's a bit warmer. I didn't feel like I was in so much trouble like I did in San Diego."

Potapova booked her first trip to the quarter-finals of a Masters event with her win over Dubai champion Paolini, snapping the Italian's eight-match winning streak.

Top seed Iga Swiatek swatted aside Yulia Putintseva 6-1 6-2 on Tuesday to set up an Indian Wells quarter-final clash with former world number one Caroline Wozniacki.

Top seed Iga Swiatek swatted aside Yulia Putintseva 6-1 6-2 on Tuesday to set up an Indian Wells quarter-final clash with former world number one Caroline Wozniacki. Swiatek got off to a slow start and saved four break points in the third game before finding her groove. The Pole then raced to a 5-1 lead, prompting Putintseva to throw her racket to the floor in frustration, before wrapping the opener up in less than 30 minutes. Swiatek, the 2022 champion, made early inroads in the second set and while Putintseva started going for her shots more the 22-year-old world number one proved too strong for her Kazakh opponent. "I knew I had to keep my focus (in the second set), she was trying different stuff out there," said Swiatek, who dropped serve twice in the second frame. "But I just really wanted to play my game and focus on what I want to do. I'm glad I did that." Wozniacki, who returned to the tour last year after stepping away from the sport in 2020 to start a family, eased past fellow mother Angelique Kerber 6-4 6-2 earlier in the day. "She's a really experienced player," Swiatek said of the 2011 champion. "I think she's playing great after her maternity break, she was fighting to come back. "I have huge respect. It's going to be a nice match." Wozniacki said she was relishing the opportunity to continue her run at Indian Wells, after making the quarters for the first time in four years. "I'm just enjoying myself and I'm just thrilled I get another match in front of all of you guys," she said. Also read: Rugby: Two-time world champions Australia slump to new low in world rankings as Italy rise Ukrainian Marta Kostyuk defeated Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova 6-4 6-1 and next meets another Russian in Anastasia Potapova, who beat Jasmine Paolini 7-5 0-6 6-3. Kostyuk dropped only four points on serve in the match and broke Pavlyuchenkova five times to reach her first quarter-final at a WTA 1000 event. Kostyuk had edged Pavlyuchenkova in a three-setter in San Diego earlier this month but had an easier time in their fourth round battle. "It definitely helped that I played her (recently)," the 21-year-old Kostyuk, who reached the Australian Open quarters in January for her best result at a Grand Slam, told the Tennis Channel. "The conditions were much better for my game here, the ball bounces much higher and it's a bit warmer. I didn't feel like I was in so much trouble like I did in San Diego." Potapova booked her first trip to the quarter-finals of a Masters event with her win over Dubai champion Paolini, snapping the Italian's eight-match winning streak.

Tennis: Poland's Iga Swiatek surges at Indian Wells to book quarterfinal with Caroline Wozniacki

Italian Luca Nardi stunned 24-time grand slam winner Novak Djokovic 6-4, 3-6, 6-3 &nbsp;to win in Indian Wells Round of 32 on Monday (Mar 11). The 20-year-old, with an ATP ranking of 123, is the lowest-ranked player to beat no. 1 Djokovic in ATP Masters 1000 or a grand slam.

Nardi was not supposed to be playing in the tournament after losing in the qualifying round. He entered the main draw after world no. 30 Tomas Martin Etcheverry pulled out of the tournament. Nardi, dubbed an Italian lucky loser, then got a bye in the first round before beating China’s Zhizhen Zhang 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 in the Round of 64.

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In the Round of 32 match, his opponent Djokovic was off-colour at the beginning, visible in the 4-6 loss in the set, but made a solid return in the match by winning the second set 6-3 before losing the third set.

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What dreams are made of 🤩 
 
Lucky loser <a href="https://twitter.com/Luca___Nardi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Luca___Nardi</a> knocks out World No.1 Novak Djokovic 6-4 3-6 6-3, to reach the Indian Wells round of 16. 
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The difference was in break points and the games won during service. Djokovic won 2 out 4 break&nbsp;points while Nardi managed 3 despite putting himself in the position to win 11 break points. As for the service games, Djokovic won one less than Nardi's 12.&nbsp;

The Italian was in disbelief after beating Djokovic and said: "I think that before this night no one knew me. I hope that the crowd enjoyed the game. I'm super happy with this one."

Talking about how he held his nerves in the game, Nardi said: "I don't know. I think it is a miracle because I am a 20-year-old guy, 100 in the world, and beating Novak. It's crazy."

Each of Djokovic's last two defeats have come against Italians - Jannik Sinner in the Australian Open semi-final earlier this year before losing to Nardi.&nbsp;

When asked if he takes inspiration from Sinner, Nardi said: For sure I'm watching Jannik winning all the matches. For sure it's something that pushed me to be better. I didn't expect to win today, but I always try to do my best in practice, and this happened and I'm really happy."

Nardi next plays American Tommy Paul for a spot in the quarterfinals.

Italian Luca Nardi stunned 24-time grand slam winner Novak Djokovic 6-4, 3-6, 6-3 to win in Indian Wells Round of 32 on Monday (Mar 11). The 20-year-old, with an ATP ranking of 123, is the lowest-ranked player to beat no.

Italian Luca Nardi stunned 24-time grand slam winner Novak Djokovic 6-4, 3-6, 6-3 to win in Indian Wells Round of 32 on Monday (Mar 11). The 20-year-old, with an ATP ranking of 123, is the lowest-ranked player to beat no. 1 Djokovic in ATP Masters 1000 or a grand slam. Nardi was not supposed to be playing in the tournament after losing in the qualifying round. He entered the main draw after world no. 30 Tomas Martin Etcheverry pulled out of the tournament. Nardi, dubbed an Italian lucky loser, then got a bye in the first round before beating China’s Zhizhen Zhang 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 in the Round of 64. Also Read: Al-Nassr exit Asian Champions League after shootout loss to Al-Ain In the Round of 32 match, his opponent Djokovic was off-colour at the beginning, visible in the 4-6 loss in the set, but made a solid return in the match by winning the second set 6-3 before losing the third set. What dreams are made of 🤩 Lucky loser @Luca___Nardi knocks out World No.1 Novak Djokovic 6-4 3-6 6-3, to reach the Indian Wells round of 16. @BNPPARIBASOPEN | #TennisParadise pic.twitter.com/WRdbC3KCvn — ATP Tour (@atptour) March 12, 2024 × The difference was in break points and the games won during service. Djokovic won 2 out 4 break points while Nardi managed 3 despite putting himself in the position to win 11 break points. As for the service games, Djokovic won one less than Nardi's 12. The Italian was in disbelief after beating Djokovic and said: "I think that before this night no one knew me. I hope that the crowd enjoyed the game. I'm super happy with this one." Talking about how he held his nerves in the game, Nardi said: "I don't know. I think it is a miracle because I am a 20-year-old guy, 100 in the world, and beating Novak. It's crazy." Each of Djokovic's last two defeats have come against Italians - Jannik Sinner in the Australian Open semi-final earlier this year before losing to Nardi. When asked if he takes inspiration from Sinner, Nardi said: For sure I'm watching Jannik winning all the matches. For sure it's something that pushed me to be better. I didn't expect to win today, but I always try to do my best in practice, and this happened and I'm really happy." Nardi next plays American Tommy Paul for a spot in the quarterfinals.

Tennis: Italian 'lucky loser' Luca Nardi hands shock defeat to Novak Djokovic in Indian Wells - WATCH

Third seeded Jannik Sinner earned his 17th straight match win Sunday (March 10) with a defeat of 25th-seeded Jan-Lennard Struff while fifth seeded Russian Andrey Rublev was sent packing by Czech 32nd seed Jiri Lehecka.

Italian Sinner needed just 74 minutes to get past German Struff 6-3 6-4 and will next face 16th seed Ben Shelton or 22nd seed Francisco Cerundolo, who meet in Sunday's late night match in the California desert.

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Lehecka, the lowest seeded player on the men's side at 32, converted nine aces to Rublev's one and took advantage of two of his four break chances to win 6-4 6-4 and advance to a Round of 16 meeting with 11th seeded Stefanos Tsitsipas.

Alcaraz moves ahead too

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz booked his spot in the Indian Wells Open last 16 following a straight sets victory against Canadian 31st seed Felix Auger-Aliassime on Sunday (March 10).

The Spanish second seed eased to a 6-2 6-3 win and will next meet Hungary’s Florian Marozsan, who dispatched Brazilian qualifier Thiago Seyboth Wild 6-2 6-2. Alcaraz suffered a surprise 6-3 7-6(4) loss to Marozsan in their only previous meeting last year in Rome on clay.

Australian 10th seed Alex de Minaur defeated 20th seed Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan 7-5 6-0, while Greece’s Stefanos Tsitsipas, seeded 11th, got the better of American hopeful and 18th seed Frances Tiafoe 6-3 6-3.

Third seeded Jannik Sinner earned his 17th straight match win Sunday (March 10) with a defeat of 25th-seeded Jan-Lennard Struff while fifth seeded Russian Andrey Rublev was sent packing by Czech 32nd seed Jiri Lehecka.

Third seeded Jannik Sinner earned his 17th straight match win Sunday (March 10) with a defeat of 25th-seeded Jan-Lennard Struff while fifth seeded Russian Andrey Rublev was sent packing by Czech 32nd seed Jiri Lehecka. Italian Sinner needed just 74 minutes to get past German Struff 6-3 6-4 and will next face 16th seed Ben Shelton or 22nd seed Francisco Cerundolo, who meet in Sunday's late night match in the California desert. Also Read: Premier League: Liverpool-Manchester City play draw at Anfield as Arsenal remain on top Lehecka, the lowest seeded player on the men's side at 32, converted nine aces to Rublev's one and took advantage of two of his four break chances to win 6-4 6-4 and advance to a Round of 16 meeting with 11th seeded Stefanos Tsitsipas. Alcaraz moves ahead too Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz booked his spot in the Indian Wells Open last 16 following a straight sets victory against Canadian 31st seed Felix Auger-Aliassime on Sunday (March 10). The Spanish second seed eased to a 6-2 6-3 win and will next meet Hungary’s Florian Marozsan, who dispatched Brazilian qualifier Thiago Seyboth Wild 6-2 6-2. Alcaraz suffered a surprise 6-3 7-6(4) loss to Marozsan in their only previous meeting last year in Rome on clay. Australian 10th seed Alex de Minaur defeated 20th seed Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan 7-5 6-0, while Greece’s Stefanos Tsitsipas, seeded 11th, got the better of American hopeful and 18th seed Frances Tiafoe 6-3 6-3.

Tennis: Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz move forward in Indian Wells; Rublev out

Grand Slam champions Naomi Osaka, Emma Raducanu and Caroline Wozniacki reached the second round of Indian Wells on Thursday while former world number one Venus Williams was heading for victory before losing the last 10 games to Japan's Nao Hibino.

Four-time Grand Slam champion Osaka, who returned to the tour in January after a maternity break, fell behind 2-1 in the first set to qualifier Sara Errani when she misfired on an overhead into the net in windy conditions.

But the Japanese player settled in from there, using her power to push the Italian around the court and won 10 of the final 11 games to advance 6-3 6-1.

"It was really tricky for me in the first set," she told reporters.

"I didn't know if I should play with her and then go for my shots or if I should immediately go for my shots. That took a little bit of working out, which is why the first set was closer than I would have wanted."

Osaka, who received a wildcard to play at the event she won in 2018 for her first professional title, next faces 14th seed Liudmila Samsonova of Russia.

Former U.S. Open champion Raducanu beat Spanish qualifier Rebeka Masarova 6-2 6-3 earlier in the day to set up a second-round clash with 30th seed Dayana Yastremska of Ukraine.

The British wildcard broke serve six times but also served eight double faults and needed four match points to close out the contest, which ended when Masarova's backhand sailed long.

Raducanu is playing in her fifth tournament since returning to action in January after being sidelined for eight months due to wrist and ankle surgeries.

Wozniacki, 33, scored her first win in the California desert since 2019, beating Zhu Lin 7-6(6) 6-1 in a match that began on Wednesday before being halted due to rain.

The Dane returned to the tour last year after stepping away from the sport in 2020 to start a family. The tournament's 2011 champion and former world number one will next take on Croatian Donna Vekic, who is seeded 25th.

Seven-time Grand Slam champion Williams looked poised for victory leading 6-2 3-2 before Hibino turned the tables for a 2-6 6-3 6-0 win.

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The 43-year-old American had not played since suffering an early exit from last year's U.S. Open, where she fell to qualifier Greet Minnen in the first round.

Danielle Collins will face world number one Iga Swiatek in a blockbuster second-round clash after the American edged Russian qualifier Erika Andreeva 7-6(3) 7-6(6).

Collins rallied from 5-3 down in the first set and saved two set points in the second to beat Andreeva and set up a meeting with familiar foe Swiatek.

Collins, 30, announced in January that this would be her last season on the WTA Tour but said her trademark competitiveness is unchanged.

"I feel like it's animal mode from the moment I walk in," she said.

Grand Slam champions Naomi Osaka, Emma Raducanu and Caroline Wozniacki reached the second round of Indian Wells on Thursday while former world number one Venus Williams was heading for victory before losing the last 10 games to Japan's Nao Hibino.

Grand Slam champions Naomi Osaka, Emma Raducanu and Caroline Wozniacki reached the second round of Indian Wells on Thursday while former world number one Venus Williams was heading for victory before losing the last 10 games to Japan's Nao Hibino. Four-time Grand Slam champion Osaka, who returned to the tour in January after a maternity break, fell behind 2-1 in the first set to qualifier Sara Errani when she misfired on an overhead into the net in windy conditions. But the Japanese player settled in from there, using her power to push the Italian around the court and won 10 of the final 11 games to advance 6-3 6-1. "It was really tricky for me in the first set," she told reporters. "I didn't know if I should play with her and then go for my shots or if I should immediately go for my shots. That took a little bit of working out, which is why the first set was closer than I would have wanted." Osaka, who received a wildcard to play at the event she won in 2018 for her first professional title, next faces 14th seed Liudmila Samsonova of Russia. Former U.S. Open champion Raducanu beat Spanish qualifier Rebeka Masarova 6-2 6-3 earlier in the day to set up a second-round clash with 30th seed Dayana Yastremska of Ukraine. The British wildcard broke serve six times but also served eight double faults and needed four match points to close out the contest, which ended when Masarova's backhand sailed long. Raducanu is playing in her fifth tournament since returning to action in January after being sidelined for eight months due to wrist and ankle surgeries. Wozniacki, 33, scored her first win in the California desert since 2019, beating Zhu Lin 7-6(6) 6-1 in a match that began on Wednesday before being halted due to rain. The Dane returned to the tour last year after stepping away from the sport in 2020 to start a family. The tournament's 2011 champion and former world number one will next take on Croatian Donna Vekic, who is seeded 25th. Seven-time Grand Slam champion Williams looked poised for victory leading 6-2 3-2 before Hibino turned the tables for a 2-6 6-3 6-0 win. ALSO READ | Leicester City at risk of points deduction for breaching profit and sustainability regulations The 43-year-old American had not played since suffering an early exit from last year's U.S. Open, where she fell to qualifier Greet Minnen in the first round. Danielle Collins will face world number one Iga Swiatek in a blockbuster second-round clash after the American edged Russian qualifier Erika Andreeva 7-6(3) 7-6(6). Collins rallied from 5-3 down in the first set and saved two set points in the second to beat Andreeva and set up a meeting with familiar foe Swiatek. Collins, 30, announced in January that this would be her last season on the WTA Tour but said her trademark competitiveness is unchanged. "I feel like it's animal mode from the moment I walk in," she said.

Tennis: Naomi Osaka, Emma Raducanu and Caroline Wozniacki reach Indian Wells second round

Rafa Nadal withdrew from Indian Wells on Wednesday on the eve of his first-round match, saying he is not "ready to play at the highest level".

The Spaniard, 37, returned to competition in Brisbane in January after almost a year sidelined with a hip flexor injury, but had to miss the Australian Open with another muscle tear.

He lost to Carlos Alcaraz in an exhibition event in Las Vegas on Sunday and looked poised to try to win a fourth title in the California desert.

"It is with great sadness that I have to withdraw from this amazing tournament," the 22-times Grand Slam champion said in a statement.

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"Everyone knows how much I love this place and how much I love to play here at Indian Wells.

"That’s also one of the reasons why I came very early to the desert to practice and try to get ready.

"I have been working hard and practicing and you all know I took a test this weekend but I don’t find myself ready to play at the highest level at such an important event.

"It is not an easy decision, it’s a tough one as a matter of fact but I can’t lie to myself and lie to the thousands of fans. I will miss you all and I am sure the tournament will be a great success."

Nadal will be replaced by lucky loser Sumit Nagal.

Rafa Nadal withdrew from Indian Wells on Wednesday on the eve of his first-round match, saying he is not "ready to play at the highest level". The Spaniard, 37, returned to competition in Brisbane in January after almost a year sidelined with a hip flexor injury, but had to miss the Australian Open with another muscle tear.

Rafa Nadal withdrew from Indian Wells on Wednesday on the eve of his first-round match, saying he is not "ready to play at the highest level". The Spaniard, 37, returned to competition in Brisbane in January after almost a year sidelined with a hip flexor injury, but had to miss the Australian Open with another muscle tear. He lost to Carlos Alcaraz in an exhibition event in Las Vegas on Sunday and looked poised to try to win a fourth title in the California desert. "It is with great sadness that I have to withdraw from this amazing tournament," the 22-times Grand Slam champion said in a statement. ALSO READ | WPL 2024: Gujarat Giants openers Wolvaardt, Mooney break multiple records with 140-run partnership vs RCB "Everyone knows how much I love this place and how much I love to play here at Indian Wells. "That’s also one of the reasons why I came very early to the desert to practice and try to get ready. "I have been working hard and practicing and you all know I took a test this weekend but I don’t find myself ready to play at the highest level at such an important event. "It is not an easy decision, it’s a tough one as a matter of fact but I can’t lie to myself and lie to the thousands of fans. I will miss you all and I am sure the tournament will be a great success." Nadal will be replaced by lucky loser Sumit Nagal.

Tennis: Rafael Nadal withdraws from Indian Wells after another injury setback

World number four Daniil Medvedev said he was excited about competing at the Paris Olympics and will follow the rules as a neutral athlete after the sport's governing body announced its stance on players from Russia and Belarus on Wednesday. The International Tennis Federation (ITF) said players from the two countries could take part in the Paris Games as neutrals without flags, emblems or anthems. Russians and Belarusians were banned from competing internationally following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, for which Belarus has been used as a staging ground.

In March last year, however, the IOC issued a set of recommendations for international sports federations to allow competitors from these countries to return. Speaking before his Indian Wells opener on Friday, Russian Medvedev said he was looking forward to playing in the Olympics after a positive experience in Tokyo three years ago when he made the quarter-finals of the singles competition.

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"If I can, I'm going to be there. I'm going to play singles and doubles," Medvedev told reporters. "When I was in Tokyo it was an amazing experience. It was probably one of the biggest memories of my sporting life, which I was surprised (by) because in tennis, we tend to think that the Grand Slams are more important. "About the neutral flag, I'll follow the rules. If it's under a neutral flag I'll play under a neutral flag and I'm going to try to compete there, show good tennis and try to win, for sure."

Russian and Belarusian players already compete on the ATP and WTA tours as neutrals. The Olympic tennis event will begin on July 27.

World number four Daniil Medvedev said he was excited about competing at the Paris Olympics and will follow the rules as a neutral athlete after the sport's governing body announced its stance on players from Russia and Belarus on Wednesday.

World number four Daniil Medvedev said he was excited about competing at the Paris Olympics and will follow the rules as a neutral athlete after the sport's governing body announced its stance on players from Russia and Belarus on Wednesday. The International Tennis Federation (ITF) said players from the two countries could take part in the Paris Games as neutrals without flags, emblems or anthems. Russians and Belarusians were banned from competing internationally following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, for which Belarus has been used as a staging ground. In March last year, however, the IOC issued a set of recommendations for international sports federations to allow competitors from these countries to return. Speaking before his Indian Wells opener on Friday, Russian Medvedev said he was looking forward to playing in the Olympics after a positive experience in Tokyo three years ago when he made the quarter-finals of the singles competition. Alsor read: Ahead of Paris Olympics, French women gymnastics coach gets suspended amid investigation into abuse "If I can, I'm going to be there. I'm going to play singles and doubles," Medvedev told reporters. "When I was in Tokyo it was an amazing experience. It was probably one of the biggest memories of my sporting life, which I was surprised (by) because in tennis, we tend to think that the Grand Slams are more important. "About the neutral flag, I'll follow the rules. If it's under a neutral flag I'll play under a neutral flag and I'm going to try to compete there, show good tennis and try to win, for sure." Russian and Belarusian players already compete on the ATP and WTA tours as neutrals. The Olympic tennis event will begin on July 27.

Tennis: Daniil Medvedev ready to play as neutral athlete in forthcoming Paris Olympics

The Indian Wells tournament in March will offer a total of $19 million in prize money, the most of any combined WTA and ATP Masters 1000 event, organizers said on Thursday. The figure is an increase of more than $1.4 million from the previous year, with most of the additional money going to singles players competing in qualifying through second rounds.

"Each year, we evaluate every aspect of our event – from prize money to scheduling to amenities and facilities – to ensure a top-tier experience for players and fans," said Steve Christian, CEO of the BNP Paribas Open, the tournament's official title. "This year, we are proud to be dedicating record prize money, and are highly focused on compensating all of the players competing in the BNP Paribas Open."

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The tournament is also switching up its schedule and will feature its first all quarter-final day on March 14, when all eight quarter-final matches will be played. The annual event in the Southern California desert near Palm Springs is owned by billionaire Larry Ellison, who also owns the Indian Wells Tennis Garden.

Last month, players voted it the ATP Masters and WTA 1000 Tournament of the Year for an unprecedented ninth straight time, and more than 450,000 fans attended the 2023 edition. Carlos Alcaraz and Elena Rybakina are defending champions at the tournament, which runs from March 6-17 this year.

The Indian Wells tournament in March will offer a total of $19 million in prize money, the most of any combined WTA and ATP Masters 1000 event, organizers said on Thursday.

The Indian Wells tournament in March will offer a total of $19 million in prize money, the most of any combined WTA and ATP Masters 1000 event, organizers said on Thursday. The figure is an increase of more than $1.4 million from the previous year, with most of the additional money going to singles players competing in qualifying through second rounds. "Each year, we evaluate every aspect of our event – from prize money to scheduling to amenities and facilities – to ensure a top-tier experience for players and fans," said Steve Christian, CEO of the BNP Paribas Open, the tournament's official title. "This year, we are proud to be dedicating record prize money, and are highly focused on compensating all of the players competing in the BNP Paribas Open." Also read: Australian Open 2024: Sumit Nagal steps closer to main draw after dominating win over Edward Winter The tournament is also switching up its schedule and will feature its first all quarter-final day on March 14, when all eight quarter-final matches will be played. The annual event in the Southern California desert near Palm Springs is owned by billionaire Larry Ellison, who also owns the Indian Wells Tennis Garden. Last month, players voted it the ATP Masters and WTA 1000 Tournament of the Year for an unprecedented ninth straight time, and more than 450,000 fans attended the 2023 edition. Carlos Alcaraz and Elena Rybakina are defending champions at the tournament, which runs from March 6-17 this year.

Tennis: Indian Wells increases prize money to $19 million, most of any combined WTA and ATP Masters 1000 event

Spain's Carlos&nbsp;Alcaraz&nbsp;swept past Daniil Medvedev 6-3, 6-2 on Sunday to win the Indian Wells ATP Masters 1000 and secure his return to number one in the world.

US Open champion&nbsp;Alcaraz&nbsp;ended Medvedev's 19-match winning streak, denying him a fourth title in as many tournaments to ensure he will supplant Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic atop the rankings.

"It feels amazing to lift the trophy here, to recover the No. 1,"&nbsp;Alcaraz&nbsp;said. "I would say this has been the perfect tournament."

Serbia's Djokovic, barred from entering the United States because he hasn't been vaccinated against Covid-19, sat out Indian Wells and will miss the Miami Open starting this week, where&nbsp;Alcaraz&nbsp;is the defending champion.

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Alcaraz, 19, who became the youngest world number one ever after his triumph at Flushing Meadows last year, claimed his third Masters 1000 title and joined compatriot Rafael Nadal as the only players to win at least three as a teenager. Nadal won six before turning 20.

He was unstoppable on Stadium Court, breaking through what he'd called the "wall" of Medvedev's formidable defenses.

Medvedev, coming off titles in Rotterdam, Doha and Dubai, could find no answer as&nbsp;Alcaraz&nbsp;fired winners from all over the court, defying the windy conditions.

"Daniil obviously didn't play at his best level, but I'm very happy for my performance and how I played this tournament."

He said the big change in him since a semi-final defeat to Nadal last year at Indian Wells was his comfort level on the game's biggest stages.

"I think my tennis didn't improve so much since last year. What I improve a lot is to not take the pressure, just to play relaxed. That, for me, is the most important thing.

"That's why I show a great level, because I feel like I have no pressure. I enjoy."

Medvedev certainly wasn't able to ratchet up the pressure on him.

A stinging backhand winner gave&nbsp;Alcaraz&nbsp;an early break in the opening set as he raced to a 3-0 lead.

He gave himself a set point with a sharply angled forehand volley and sealed it with an unreturnable serve, then won the first 10 points of the second set on the way to a 4-0 lead.

He didn't face a break point as he polished it off in one hour and 11 minutes, a diving volley winner giving him match point that he converted with another service winner.

<h2>Not easy</h2>

"I expected a tougher match," he said. "Against him is always a tactic match, and I did perfect today. That's why it looks easy -- but it wasn't."

Alcaraz&nbsp;has returned to number one despite a late start to the year. Injury forced him to miss the Australian Open, where Djokovic claimed a record-equalling 22nd Grand Slam title.

Since launching his season in February&nbsp;Alcaraz&nbsp;has won a title in Buenos Aires and reached the final in Rio de Janeiro.

But to stay at the top he'll have to successfully defend his Miami title over the course of the next two weeks.

Medvedev, a former world number one and US Open winner himself, was disappointed that he didn't play his best, but pleased to get past the fourth round at Indian Wells for the first time, despite twisting his ankle in a win over Alexander Zverev and cutting his thumb in another tumble against Alejandro Davidovich Fokina.

"Why didn't I play my best? I don't know. Maybe it was his ball. Maybe it was the wind, was pretty windy today, and for him it was easier to go through this wind, and that's normal.

"But the week was amazing," added Medvedev never a fan of the slow hard courts of Indian Wells.

"I had a pretty toxic relationship with the courts here," he said during the trophy ceremony as he reeled off a long list of those to thank.

"I would like to thank this court. I was giving a hard time to it, so it gave me a hard time also, rolled my ankle, but it gave me the chance to finish the tournament so thanks a lot to this court."

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Spain's Carlos Alcaraz swept past Daniil Medvedev 6-3, 6-2 on Sunday to win the Indian Wells ATP Masters 1000 and secure his return to number one in the world. US Open champion Alcaraz ended Medvedev's 19-match winning streak, denying him a fourth title in as many tournaments to ensure he will supplant Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic atop the rankings.

Spain's Carlos Alcaraz swept past Daniil Medvedev 6-3, 6-2 on Sunday to win the Indian Wells ATP Masters 1000 and secure his return to number one in the world. US Open champion Alcaraz ended Medvedev's 19-match winning streak, denying him a fourth title in as many tournaments to ensure he will supplant Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic atop the rankings. "It feels amazing to lift the trophy here, to recover the No. 1," Alcaraz said. "I would say this has been the perfect tournament." Serbia's Djokovic, barred from entering the United States because he hasn't been vaccinated against Covid-19, sat out Indian Wells and will miss the Miami Open starting this week, where Alcaraz is the defending champion. Also Read: India's Rohan Bopanna creates history, becomes oldest player to win ATP Masters 1000 Alcaraz, 19, who became the youngest world number one ever after his triumph at Flushing Meadows last year, claimed his third Masters 1000 title and joined compatriot Rafael Nadal as the only players to win at least three as a teenager. Nadal won six before turning 20. He was unstoppable on Stadium Court, breaking through what he'd called the "wall" of Medvedev's formidable defenses. Medvedev, coming off titles in Rotterdam, Doha and Dubai, could find no answer as Alcaraz fired winners from all over the court, defying the windy conditions. "Daniil obviously didn't play at his best level, but I'm very happy for my performance and how I played this tournament." He said the big change in him since a semi-final defeat to Nadal last year at Indian Wells was his comfort level on the game's biggest stages. "I think my tennis didn't improve so much since last year. What I improve a lot is to not take the pressure, just to play relaxed. That, for me, is the most important thing. "That's why I show a great level, because I feel like I have no pressure. I enjoy." Medvedev certainly wasn't able to ratchet up the pressure on him. A stinging backhand winner gave Alcaraz an early break in the opening set as he raced to a 3-0 lead. He gave himself a set point with a sharply angled forehand volley and sealed it with an unreturnable serve, then won the first 10 points of the second set on the way to a 4-0 lead. He didn't face a break point as he polished it off in one hour and 11 minutes, a diving volley winner giving him match point that he converted with another service winner. Not easy "I expected a tougher match," he said. "Against him is always a tactic match, and I did perfect today. That's why it looks easy -- but it wasn't." Alcaraz has returned to number one despite a late start to the year. Injury forced him to miss the Australian Open, where Djokovic claimed a record-equalling 22nd Grand Slam title. Since launching his season in February Alcaraz has won a title in Buenos Aires and reached the final in Rio de Janeiro. But to stay at the top he'll have to successfully defend his Miami title over the course of the next two weeks. Medvedev, a former world number one and US Open winner himself, was disappointed that he didn't play his best, but pleased to get past the fourth round at Indian Wells for the first time, despite twisting his ankle in a win over Alexander Zverev and cutting his thumb in another tumble against Alejandro Davidovich Fokina. "Why didn't I play my best? I don't know. Maybe it was his ball. Maybe it was the wind, was pretty windy today, and for him it was easier to go through this wind, and that's normal. "But the week was amazing," added Medvedev never a fan of the slow hard courts of Indian Wells. "I had a pretty toxic relationship with the courts here," he said during the trophy ceremony as he reeled off a long list of those to thank. "I would like to thank this court. I was giving a hard time to it, so it gave me a hard time also, rolled my ankle, but it gave me the chance to finish the tournament so thanks a lot to this court." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Carlos Alcaraz beats Daniil Medvedev to win Indian Wells trophy, displaces Djokovic to reclaim no. 1 ranking

Elena Rybakina knocked out defending champion Iga Swiatek with a 6-2, 6-2 semi-final victory at Indian Wells on Friday to set up a clash against Aryna Sabalenka in the final. Two months after Rybakina knocked Swiatek out of the Australian Open in the fourth round, the Wimbledon champion once again put in an impressive display against the world number one.

Rybakina was in control from the start, breaking early to take a 2-0 lead, before going on to clinch the first set when Swiatek produced a double fault on set point. Rybakina's serve was tested in the first game of the second set, but the Kazakh held under pressure and then won the next four games to take a 5-0 lead.

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Swiatek was far from her best on the night and later revealed that she had struggled with "discomfort" in her ribcage during the match, but added that she was still expecting to defend her title at next week's Miami Open.

"We're going to consult with the medical team. For sure I'm going to use these days off before Miami (to recover)," Swiatek told reporters.

The Pole did manage to avoid a bagel in the second set by saving a break point to hold before breaking to then further reduce the arrears, but Rybakina broke back immediately to extinguish the comeback and secure the win.

"I really played well today, it was a really nice atmosphere tonight," Rybakina said in her on-court interview. "I didn't expect I would play that well today. I had nothing to lose, I just wanted to enjoy. I think it was one of my best matches this season."

Rybakina will be out for revenge when she faces Sabalenka, who defeated her in the Australian Open final in January. The Belarusian leads 4-0 in their head-to-head.

"It was really close, we had so many battles and so far I'm losing, but hopefully that will change," Rybakina added.

Earlier on Friday, Australian Open champion Sabalenka was not at her best in a 6-2, 6-3 win over Greece's Maria Sakkari, but maintained her composure even when her old nemesis - the double fault - reared its ugly head on a sunny day in the Southern California desert.

"In the past I lost so many matches like that after a few not super smart mistakes," said Sabalenka. "I was reminding myself that it is okay to make mistakes. I'm not a robot, I'm a human. I can miss those shots, and probably that's why I was able to keep fighting and keep trying."

After the start of the match was delayed by more than 30 minutes to fix an audio issue related to the electronic line-calling system, Sabalenka cracked an ace out wide to open the match.

She broke Sakkari for a third time on an errant Sakkari forehand to capture the first set but the Belarusian's frustration began to mount in the second when two double faults gave Sakkari a look at break points at 2-2.

Sabalenka regrouped to hold for 3-2 and broke Sakkari in a lengthy deuce game for a 4-2 advantage she would not relinquish, pouncing on a short return of serve on match point and burying the ball with an emphatic backhand.

Elena Rybakina knocked out defending champion Iga Swiatek with a 6-2, 6-2 semi-final victory at Indian Wells on Friday to set up a clash against Aryna Sabalenka in the final.

Elena Rybakina knocked out defending champion Iga Swiatek with a 6-2, 6-2 semi-final victory at Indian Wells on Friday to set up a clash against Aryna Sabalenka in the final. Two months after Rybakina knocked Swiatek out of the Australian Open in the fourth round, the Wimbledon champion once again put in an impressive display against the world number one. Rybakina was in control from the start, breaking early to take a 2-0 lead, before going on to clinch the first set when Swiatek produced a double fault on set point. Rybakina's serve was tested in the first game of the second set, but the Kazakh held under pressure and then won the next four games to take a 5-0 lead. ALSO READ: Premier League: Isak fires Newcastle to within sight of top four Swiatek was far from her best on the night and later revealed that she had struggled with "discomfort" in her ribcage during the match, but added that she was still expecting to defend her title at next week's Miami Open. "We're going to consult with the medical team. For sure I'm going to use these days off before Miami (to recover)," Swiatek told reporters. The Pole did manage to avoid a bagel in the second set by saving a break point to hold before breaking to then further reduce the arrears, but Rybakina broke back immediately to extinguish the comeback and secure the win. "I really played well today, it was a really nice atmosphere tonight," Rybakina said in her on-court interview. "I didn't expect I would play that well today. I had nothing to lose, I just wanted to enjoy. I think it was one of my best matches this season." Rybakina will be out for revenge when she faces Sabalenka, who defeated her in the Australian Open final in January. The Belarusian leads 4-0 in their head-to-head. "It was really close, we had so many battles and so far I'm losing, but hopefully that will change," Rybakina added. Earlier on Friday, Australian Open champion Sabalenka was not at her best in a 6-2, 6-3 win over Greece's Maria Sakkari, but maintained her composure even when her old nemesis - the double fault - reared its ugly head on a sunny day in the Southern California desert. "In the past I lost so many matches like that after a few not super smart mistakes," said Sabalenka. "I was reminding myself that it is okay to make mistakes. I'm not a robot, I'm a human. I can miss those shots, and probably that's why I was able to keep fighting and keep trying." After the start of the match was delayed by more than 30 minutes to fix an audio issue related to the electronic line-calling system, Sabalenka cracked an ace out wide to open the match. She broke Sakkari for a third time on an errant Sakkari forehand to capture the first set but the Belarusian's frustration began to mount in the second when two double faults gave Sakkari a look at break points at 2-2. Sabalenka regrouped to hold for 3-2 and broke Sakkari in a lengthy deuce game for a 4-2 advantage she would not relinquish, pouncing on a short return of serve on match point and burying the ball with an emphatic backhand.

Indian Wells: Elena Rybakina walks away with win over Iga Swiatek in semis, to face Aryna Sabalenka in final

Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina survived a stern test from Czech Karolina Muchova before advancing 7-6(4) 2-6 6-4 and will face Iga Swiatek in Friday's semi-final after the world number one rolled past Sorana Cirstea 6-2 6-3 at Indian Wells. Muchova smacked a backhand crosscourt winner to break serve in the first set for a 3-2 lead and, despite having played several grueling three-set matches at the tournament and having her left thigh wrapped, looked fresh.

The hard-hitting Rybakina struck back when she converted her sixth break point opportunity of the set by pouncing on a weak approach shot from Muchova, who then could not get her volley over the net for 5-5. In the tiebreaker momentum swung firmly in Rybakina's favour when she sent a blistering backhand winner down the line for 4-4 and the 76-minute first set ended on a Muchova double fault.

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The unseeded Muchova, a former top 20 player now ranked 76th, played nearly flawless tennis in the second set to force the decider.

In the third, the 10th-seeded Rybakina went up an early break on another untimely double fault by Muchova and held at love to push the advantage to 3-1. Muchova continued to battle, saving two match points on her serve in the ninth game.

But Rybakina did not miss her third opportunity to secure the win, crushing her sixth ace to end the two-hour, 45-minute contest on a sunny day at the WTA 1000 event in the Southern California desert.

"It was a really tough match today," said Rybakina, who became the first Kazakhstani woman to make it to the tournament's semis. "I served much better in the third. I didn't start that well at the beginning of the match. I was a bit slower than usual and here the conditions are not that easy for me.

"But in the important moments I played well."

Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina survived a stern test from Czech Karolina Muchova before advancing 7-6(4) 2-6 6-4 and will face Iga Swiatek in Friday's semi-final after the world number one rolled past Sorana Cirstea 6-2 6-3 at Indian Wells.

Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina survived a stern test from Czech Karolina Muchova before advancing 7-6(4) 2-6 6-4 and will face Iga Swiatek in Friday's semi-final after the world number one rolled past Sorana Cirstea 6-2 6-3 at Indian Wells. Muchova smacked a backhand crosscourt winner to break serve in the first set for a 3-2 lead and, despite having played several grueling three-set matches at the tournament and having her left thigh wrapped, looked fresh. The hard-hitting Rybakina struck back when she converted her sixth break point opportunity of the set by pouncing on a weak approach shot from Muchova, who then could not get her volley over the net for 5-5. In the tiebreaker momentum swung firmly in Rybakina's favour when she sent a blistering backhand winner down the line for 4-4 and the 76-minute first set ended on a Muchova double fault. ALSO READ: Sporting stun Arsenal in Europa League shoot-out after Goncalves masterpiece The unseeded Muchova, a former top 20 player now ranked 76th, played nearly flawless tennis in the second set to force the decider. In the third, the 10th-seeded Rybakina went up an early break on another untimely double fault by Muchova and held at love to push the advantage to 3-1. Muchova continued to battle, saving two match points on her serve in the ninth game. But Rybakina did not miss her third opportunity to secure the win, crushing her sixth ace to end the two-hour, 45-minute contest on a sunny day at the WTA 1000 event in the Southern California desert. "It was a really tough match today," said Rybakina, who became the first Kazakhstani woman to make it to the tournament's semis. "I served much better in the third. I didn't start that well at the beginning of the match. I was a bit slower than usual and here the conditions are not that easy for me. "But in the important moments I played well."

Indian Wells: Elena Rybakina sets up semis date with Iga Swiatek following crunch win over Karolina Muchova

Daniil Medvedev shook off a second-set fall to beat Alexander Zverev 6-7 (5/7), 7-6 (7/5), 7-5 on Tuesday, the "crazy" victory pushing him into the Indian Wells quarter-finals for the first time.

Medvedev notched his 17th straight ATP victory. But for awhile it seemed the red-hot form that saw him lift trophies in Rotterdam, Doha and Dubai wouldn't be enough in the combined WTA and ATP Masters 1000 event in the California desert.

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The world number six, frustrated as ever by the slow courts at Indian Wells, rolled his right ankle in the sixth game of the second set, crying out in pain and lying on the court for several minutes before limping to his chair.

Zverev, who suffered three torn ankle ligaments at last year's French Open, looked on in concern, but after the injury was examined and taped by medical staff Medvedev continued and turned the match around.

He saved all 10 break points he faced in the second set -- eight of them before he fell.

He grabbed a 4-1 lead on the way to victory in the tiebreaker and went up an early break in the third.

He was untroubled on his serve until he squandered a match point as he was broken in the 10th game.

Zverev couldn't build on that, however, clutching his head in disbelief as he double-faulted on break point in the next game.

Medvedev seized the opening, holding at love to clinch the win after three hours and 17 minutes.

"Even without talking about the ankle, the match itself was crazy," Medvedev said. "When you have 10 break points you're much closer to winning it and maybe you even deserve it, but that's tennis sometimes."

<h2>Norrie into quarter-finals</h2>

Ankle allowing, Medvedev is scheduled to face 28th-ranked Spaniard Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, a 6-3, 6-4 winner over Chilean qualifier Cristian Garin.

The Stadium Court drama launched a jam-packed day that featured all men's and women's round of 16 matches.

Men's top seed Carlos Alcaraz, the US Open champion who is chasing a third Masters 1000 title that would see him return to number one in the world, took on 21-year-old Briton Jack Draper -- who is coming off a third-round victory over childhood hero Andy Murray.

Women's world number one Iga Swiatek, trying to become just the second woman after Martina Navratilova in 1990-91 to win back-to-back Indian Wells titles, faced 2021 US Open winner Emma Raducanu.

In other early matches, defending champion Taylor Fritz defeated Hungarian Marton Fucsovics 6-4, 6-3.

Britain's 2021 champion Cameron Norrie eased past seventh-ranked Russian Andrey Rublev 6-2, 6-4, lining up a meeting with American Frances Tiafoe, who beat Chilean qualifier Alejandro Tabilo 6-4, 6-4.

Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka reached the quarter-finals for the first time with a 6-3, 2-6, 6-4 victory over Barbora Krejcikova.

Sabalenka fired 11 aces to avenge a loss to the Czech at Dubai last month -- the Belarusian's only lone defeat of the year.

Sabalenka next faces 19-year-old American Coco Gauff, who squeezed past Swedish qualifier Rebecca Peterson 6-3, 1-6, 6-4. Gauff, the fourth seed, has won three of their prior four meetings.

Two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova, a former world number two now ranked 15th, saved four match points in a 6-2, 3-6, 7-6 (13/11) victory over third-ranked Jessica Pegula.

The Czech next faces last year's runner-up Maria Sakkari, the seventh seed who beat Karolina Pliskova 6-4, 5-7, 6-3.

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Daniil Medvedev shook off a second-set fall to beat Alexander Zverev 6-7 (5/7), 7-6 (7/5), 7-5 on Tuesday, the "crazy" victory pushing him into the Indian Wells quarter-finals for the first time.

Daniil Medvedev shook off a second-set fall to beat Alexander Zverev 6-7 (5/7), 7-6 (7/5), 7-5 on Tuesday, the "crazy" victory pushing him into the Indian Wells quarter-finals for the first time. Medvedev notched his 17th straight ATP victory. But for awhile it seemed the red-hot form that saw him lift trophies in Rotterdam, Doha and Dubai wouldn't be enough in the combined WTA and ATP Masters 1000 event in the California desert. Also Read: Steve Smith to lead Australia in India ODIs as Pat Cummins stays home after mother's death The world number six, frustrated as ever by the slow courts at Indian Wells, rolled his right ankle in the sixth game of the second set, crying out in pain and lying on the court for several minutes before limping to his chair. Zverev, who suffered three torn ankle ligaments at last year's French Open, looked on in concern, but after the injury was examined and taped by medical staff Medvedev continued and turned the match around. He saved all 10 break points he faced in the second set -- eight of them before he fell. He grabbed a 4-1 lead on the way to victory in the tiebreaker and went up an early break in the third. He was untroubled on his serve until he squandered a match point as he was broken in the 10th game. Zverev couldn't build on that, however, clutching his head in disbelief as he double-faulted on break point in the next game. Medvedev seized the opening, holding at love to clinch the win after three hours and 17 minutes. "Even without talking about the ankle, the match itself was crazy," Medvedev said. "When you have 10 break points you're much closer to winning it and maybe you even deserve it, but that's tennis sometimes." Norrie into quarter-finals Ankle allowing, Medvedev is scheduled to face 28th-ranked Spaniard Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, a 6-3, 6-4 winner over Chilean qualifier Cristian Garin. The Stadium Court drama launched a jam-packed day that featured all men's and women's round of 16 matches. Men's top seed Carlos Alcaraz, the US Open champion who is chasing a third Masters 1000 title that would see him return to number one in the world, took on 21-year-old Briton Jack Draper -- who is coming off a third-round victory over childhood hero Andy Murray. Women's world number one Iga Swiatek, trying to become just the second woman after Martina Navratilova in 1990-91 to win back-to-back Indian Wells titles, faced 2021 US Open winner Emma Raducanu. In other early matches, defending champion Taylor Fritz defeated Hungarian Marton Fucsovics 6-4, 6-3. Britain's 2021 champion Cameron Norrie eased past seventh-ranked Russian Andrey Rublev 6-2, 6-4, lining up a meeting with American Frances Tiafoe, who beat Chilean qualifier Alejandro Tabilo 6-4, 6-4. Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka reached the quarter-finals for the first time with a 6-3, 2-6, 6-4 victory over Barbora Krejcikova. Sabalenka fired 11 aces to avenge a loss to the Czech at Dubai last month -- the Belarusian's only lone defeat of the year. Sabalenka next faces 19-year-old American Coco Gauff, who squeezed past Swedish qualifier Rebecca Peterson 6-3, 1-6, 6-4. Gauff, the fourth seed, has won three of their prior four meetings. Two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova, a former world number two now ranked 15th, saved four match points in a 6-2, 3-6, 7-6 (13/11) victory over third-ranked Jessica Pegula. The Czech next faces last year's runner-up Maria Sakkari, the seventh seed who beat Karolina Pliskova 6-4, 5-7, 6-3. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian Wells: Daniil Medvedev gets 'crazy' win over Alexander Zverev to enter quarter-finals

Three-time Grand Slam champion Stan Wawrinka scored a win for the old guard Monday,&nbsp;beating 19-year-old seventh seed Holger Rune 6-2, 6-7 (5/7), 7-5 to reach the fourth round at Indian Wells.

A former world number three now ranked 100th, Wawrinka has had two left knee and two left foot surgeries since he reached the Indian Wells and Roland Garros finals in 2017.

At 37, he had 18 years on his opponent, but he avenged a first-round defeat to the Dane at the Paris Masters in November, where Rune saved three match points to launch his run to a first Masters title.

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It looked like the young Dane, ranked eighth in the world, might pull off a similar comeback when he saved a match point and broke Wawrinka in the ninth game of the second set.

Rune clawed back from 5-2 down in the second-set tiebreaker to force a third set, but Wawrinka dictated the pace using his trademark backhand to good effect.

The Swiss, who won the Australian Open in 2014, the French Open in 2015 and the US Open in 2016, finished with 12 aces and didn't face a break point in the final set.

He broke Rune in the penultimate game and served out the victory in two hours and 40 minutes -- and more than an hour after his first match point.

"I should have won the match way before," Wawrinka said. "I started feeling nervous and hesitated a little bit. He came back in the match. He is an amazing player, a young player.

"But it is special to keep winning. I really enjoy the second seek atmosphere," said Wawrinka , who has reached quarter-finals in Marseille and Rotterdam this year.

"It was important to stay there mentally because I am playing well. All my career I know only one way: to keep fighting, working pushing myself and stay positive."

Wawrinka will fight for a quarter-final berth against another young talent in 21-year-old Italian Jannik Sinner, who beat France's Adrian Mannarino 7-6 (9/7), 6-4.

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Three-time Grand Slam champion Stan Wawrinka scored a win for the old guard Monday, beating 19-year-old seventh seed Holger Rune 6-2, 6-7 (5/7), 7-5 to reach the fourth round at Indian Wells.

Three-time Grand Slam champion Stan Wawrinka scored a win for the old guard Monday, beating 19-year-old seventh seed Holger Rune 6-2, 6-7 (5/7), 7-5 to reach the fourth round at Indian Wells. A former world number three now ranked 100th, Wawrinka has had two left knee and two left foot surgeries since he reached the Indian Wells and Roland Garros finals in 2017. At 37, he had 18 years on his opponent, but he avenged a first-round defeat to the Dane at the Paris Masters in November, where Rune saved three match points to launch his run to a first Masters title. Also Read: PSG defender Achraf Hakimi named in Morocco squad despite rape accusations It looked like the young Dane, ranked eighth in the world, might pull off a similar comeback when he saved a match point and broke Wawrinka in the ninth game of the second set. Rune clawed back from 5-2 down in the second-set tiebreaker to force a third set, but Wawrinka dictated the pace using his trademark backhand to good effect. The Swiss, who won the Australian Open in 2014, the French Open in 2015 and the US Open in 2016, finished with 12 aces and didn't face a break point in the final set. He broke Rune in the penultimate game and served out the victory in two hours and 40 minutes -- and more than an hour after his first match point. "I should have won the match way before," Wawrinka said. "I started feeling nervous and hesitated a little bit. He came back in the match. He is an amazing player, a young player. "But it is special to keep winning. I really enjoy the second seek atmosphere," said Wawrinka , who has reached quarter-finals in Marseille and Rotterdam this year. "It was important to stay there mentally because I am playing well. All my career I know only one way: to keep fighting, working pushing myself and stay positive." Wawrinka will fight for a quarter-final berth against another young talent in 21-year-old Italian Jannik Sinner, who beat France's Adrian Mannarino 7-6 (9/7), 6-4. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Three-time Grand Slam champion Stan Wawrinka reaches Indian Wells round of 16

Top seeds Carlos Alcaraz and Iga Swiatek raced into the third round of the Indian Wells WTA and ATP Masters 1000 without wasting a minute on Saturday. Spain's second-ranked Alcaraz, the US Open champion who can return to number one in the world with a third Masters 1000 crown, needed just one hour and 16 minutes to get past Australian qualifier Thanasi Kokkinakis 6-3, 6-3.

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Good start at Indian Wells! 🙌🏻 Back in a place that's special in my career! 
See you in R3! ❤️🌴 
 
📸 <a href="https://twitter.com/BNPPARIBASOPEN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BNPPARIBASOPEN</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZW3p90XptX">pic.twitter.com/ZW3p90XptX</a>
— Carlos Alcaraz (@carlosalcaraz) <a href="https://twitter.com/carlosalcaraz/status/1634805712705445890?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Women's number one Swiatek, winner of the French and US opens last year, was even more ruthlessly efficient in a 6-0, 6-1 triumph over American Claire Liu.

Alcaraz lost just one point on his serve in the first set and did not face a break point in the match as he lined up a meeting with Tallon Griekspoor, a 7-6 (7/3), 7-6 (7/4) winner over Argentina's Guido Pella.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-football-focus-final-score-shows-on-bbc-as-presenters-go-off-air-on-saturday-to-support-gary-lineker-571000">No Football Focus, Final Score shows on BBC as presenters go off air on Saturday to support Gary Lineker</a>

"Well, I surprised myself today with my serve," the effervescent 19-year-old said. "I serve really well in the first set and in the second set as well."

Early breaks in each set were too much for Kokkinakis to overcome in the face of Alcaraz's speed and power.

"All that I'm looking for in every match is to enjoy and to play relaxed," Alcaraz said. "I think that's the most important part of my game, to stay relaxed and go for it and not to think about the mistakes, the points, the rounds. Just live the moment, play the match, and go for it," he added.

Alcaraz was able to do just that as there was no sign of the right hamstring injury that forced him out of the ATP tournament in Acapulco prior to Indian Wells.

He had missed the Australian Open with similar trouble, but returned to win in Buenos Aires last month before falling in the final at Rio de Janeiro -- where he was hindered by the injury.

"It seems today that I move really well," Alcaraz said. "I think I'm ready and totally recovered from the injury."

Top seeds Carlos Alcaraz and Iga Swiatek raced into the third round of the Indian Wells WTA and ATP Masters 1000 without wasting a minute on Saturday. Spain's second-ranked Alcaraz, the US Open champion who can return to number one in the world with a third Masters 1000 crown, needed just one hour and 16 minutes to get past Australian qualifier Thanasi Kokkinakis 6-3, 6-3.

Top seeds Carlos Alcaraz and Iga Swiatek raced into the third round of the Indian Wells WTA and ATP Masters 1000 without wasting a minute on Saturday. Spain's second-ranked Alcaraz, the US Open champion who can return to number one in the world with a third Masters 1000 crown, needed just one hour and 16 minutes to get past Australian qualifier Thanasi Kokkinakis 6-3, 6-3. Good start at Indian Wells! 🙌🏻 Back in a place that's special in my career! See you in R3! ❤️🌴 📸 @BNPPARIBASOPEN pic.twitter.com/ZW3p90XptX — Carlos Alcaraz (@carlosalcaraz) March 12, 2023 × Women's number one Swiatek, winner of the French and US opens last year, was even more ruthlessly efficient in a 6-0, 6-1 triumph over American Claire Liu. Alcaraz lost just one point on his serve in the first set and did not face a break point in the match as he lined up a meeting with Tallon Griekspoor, a 7-6 (7/3), 7-6 (7/4) winner over Argentina's Guido Pella. ALSO READ: No Football Focus, Final Score shows on BBC as presenters go off air on Saturday to support Gary Lineker "Well, I surprised myself today with my serve," the effervescent 19-year-old said. "I serve really well in the first set and in the second set as well." Early breaks in each set were too much for Kokkinakis to overcome in the face of Alcaraz's speed and power. "All that I'm looking for in every match is to enjoy and to play relaxed," Alcaraz said. "I think that's the most important part of my game, to stay relaxed and go for it and not to think about the mistakes, the points, the rounds. Just live the moment, play the match, and go for it," he added. Alcaraz was able to do just that as there was no sign of the right hamstring injury that forced him out of the ATP tournament in Acapulco prior to Indian Wells. He had missed the Australian Open with similar trouble, but returned to win in Buenos Aires last month before falling in the final at Rio de Janeiro -- where he was hindered by the injury. "It seems today that I move really well," Alcaraz said. "I think I'm ready and totally recovered from the injury."

Indian Wells: Spain's Carlos Alcaraz and top-seeded Iga Swiatek storm into third round with thumping wins

Former world number one Andy Murray made it through another tough match on Thursday rallying from a set down to beat Tomas Etcheverry and reaches the second round of the Indian Wells WTA and ATP Masters 1000. The Briton, who has made a habit of great escapes this year, needed three hours and 12 minutes to subdue the Argentinean 6-7 (5/7), 6-1, 6-4.

"Some of the matches I've played this year I haven't deserved to win all of them," said Murray, who won a five-setter lasting more than five hours at the Australian Open and in Doha last month overcame eight match points in four matches before falling to Daniil Medvedev in the final.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-nba-star-shawn-kemp-freed-from-jail-after-lawyers-claim-he-fired-in-self-defence-570440">Ex-NBA star Shawn Kemp freed from jail after lawyers claim he fired in ‘self-defence’</a>

Thursday offered a bit less drama, but Murray, grinding back toward the top 40 after hip replacement surgery in 2019, had to fight off two break points in the eighth game of the third set. He needed five chances to get the decisive break in the next game, finally converting when Etcheverry, riding high after reaching the final in Santiago last week, double-faulted.

They arrived at match point after three hours and nine minutes, Murray missing his first chance when his drop shot attempt spun wide. Three minutes later he polished it off with an ace.

Murray improved to 7-0 in decisive sets this year and booked a meeting with 15th-seeded Spaniard Pablo Carreno Busta.

After injuries threatened his career, Murray, owner of three Grand Slam titles and two Olympic gold medals, said he wants to enjoy the final act of his career.

"I really want to make the most of these last years that I've got," he said. "I want to keep going, I still feel extremely motivated."

Murray was one of a string of former Grand Slam winners in first-round action as the 32 men's and women's seeds -- led by Carlos Alcaraz and Iga Swiatek -- enjoyed byes.

Former world number one Andy Murray made it through another tough match on Thursday rallying from a set down to beat Tomas Etcheverry and reaches the second round of the Indian Wells WTA and ATP Masters 1000.

Former world number one Andy Murray made it through another tough match on Thursday rallying from a set down to beat Tomas Etcheverry and reaches the second round of the Indian Wells WTA and ATP Masters 1000. The Briton, who has made a habit of great escapes this year, needed three hours and 12 minutes to subdue the Argentinean 6-7 (5/7), 6-1, 6-4. "Some of the matches I've played this year I haven't deserved to win all of them," said Murray, who won a five-setter lasting more than five hours at the Australian Open and in Doha last month overcame eight match points in four matches before falling to Daniil Medvedev in the final. ALSO READ: Ex-NBA star Shawn Kemp freed from jail after lawyers claim he fired in ‘self-defence’ Thursday offered a bit less drama, but Murray, grinding back toward the top 40 after hip replacement surgery in 2019, had to fight off two break points in the eighth game of the third set. He needed five chances to get the decisive break in the next game, finally converting when Etcheverry, riding high after reaching the final in Santiago last week, double-faulted. They arrived at match point after three hours and nine minutes, Murray missing his first chance when his drop shot attempt spun wide. Three minutes later he polished it off with an ace. Murray improved to 7-0 in decisive sets this year and booked a meeting with 15th-seeded Spaniard Pablo Carreno Busta. After injuries threatened his career, Murray, owner of three Grand Slam titles and two Olympic gold medals, said he wants to enjoy the final act of his career. "I really want to make the most of these last years that I've got," he said. "I want to keep going, I still feel extremely motivated." Murray was one of a string of former Grand Slam winners in first-round action as the 32 men's and women's seeds -- led by Carlos Alcaraz and Iga Swiatek -- enjoyed byes.

Indian Wells: Ageing Andy Murray breaks another tough-match barrier with win over Tomas Etcheverry

Novak Djokovic, in latest ATP rankings released on Monday, continue to remain on number one position, extending his stay to record 379 weeks. Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz, however, remains in hot pursuit of the Serbian.&nbsp;

Djokovic, however, stares at losing the top spot after decided to not play in the upcoming Indian Wells Master ATP event, scheduled to be played in the USA. This is also Alcaraz's&nbsp;golden chance to bridge the gap between him and Djokovic.

Second-ranked Alcaraz will take over at the ATP summit if he wins the Indian Wells Masters -- Djokovic was forced to withdraw from the event starting this week on Sunday.

The Serb is unable to enter the United States because he is unvaccinated against Covid-19. A petition to US authorities for special permission to enter was rejected.

The 35-year-old winner of 22 Grand Slam titles edged ahead of Steffi Graf's all-time record last week despite losing in the Dubai semi-finals to Daniil Medvedev.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-world-no-1-novak-djokovic-withdraws-from-indian-wells-masters-569001">World no. 1 Novak Djokovic withdraws from Indian Wells Masters</a>

The Russian ended Djokovic's 20-match win streak and perfect start to 2023 before claiming his third title in as many weeks with defeat of compatriot Andrey Rublev in Dubai.

He moved up a place to sixth.

Here are latest ATP top 20

1. Novak Djokovic (SRB) 7,160 points

2. Carlos Alcaraz (ESP) 6,780

3. Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE) 5,805

4. Casper Ruud (NOR) 5,560

5. Taylor Fritz (USA) 3,795

6. Daniil Medvedev 3,775 (+1)

7. Andrey Rublev 3,660 (-1)

8. Holger Rune (NOR) 3,321 (+2)

9. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 3,315 (-1)

10. Felix Auger-Aliassime (CAN) 3,245 (-1)

11. Hubert Hurkacz (POL) 3,110

12. Cameron Norrie (GBR) 2,815

13. Jannik Sinner (ITA) 2,655

14. Alexander Zverev (GER) 2,500

15. Karen Khachanov 2,470

16. Frances Tiafoe (USA) 2,395

17. Pablo Carreno Busta (ESP) 2,240

18. Alex de Minaur (AUS) 2,165 (+4)

19. Tommy Paul (USA) 2,000 (+4)

20. Borna Coric (CRO) 1,905

(With inputs from agencies)

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Novak Djokovic, in latest ATP rankings released on Monday, continue to remain on number one position, extending his stay to record 379 weeks. Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz, however, remains in hot pursuit of the Serbian.

Novak Djokovic, in latest ATP rankings released on Monday, continue to remain on number one position, extending his stay to record 379 weeks. Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz, however, remains in hot pursuit of the Serbian. Djokovic, however, stares at losing the top spot after decided to not play in the upcoming Indian Wells Master ATP event, scheduled to be played in the USA. This is also Alcaraz's golden chance to bridge the gap between him and Djokovic. Second-ranked Alcaraz will take over at the ATP summit if he wins the Indian Wells Masters -- Djokovic was forced to withdraw from the event starting this week on Sunday. The Serb is unable to enter the United States because he is unvaccinated against Covid-19. A petition to US authorities for special permission to enter was rejected. The 35-year-old winner of 22 Grand Slam titles edged ahead of Steffi Graf's all-time record last week despite losing in the Dubai semi-finals to Daniil Medvedev. Also Read: World no. 1 Novak Djokovic withdraws from Indian Wells Masters The Russian ended Djokovic's 20-match win streak and perfect start to 2023 before claiming his third title in as many weeks with defeat of compatriot Andrey Rublev in Dubai. He moved up a place to sixth. Here are latest ATP top 20 1. Novak Djokovic (SRB) 7,160 points 2. Carlos Alcaraz (ESP) 6,780 3. Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE) 5,805 4. Casper Ruud (NOR) 5,560 5. Taylor Fritz (USA) 3,795 6. Daniil Medvedev 3,775 (+1) 7. Andrey Rublev 3,660 (-1) 8. Holger Rune (NOR) 3,321 (+2) 9. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 3,315 (-1) 10. Felix Auger-Aliassime (CAN) 3,245 (-1) 11. Hubert Hurkacz (POL) 3,110 12. Cameron Norrie (GBR) 2,815 13. Jannik Sinner (ITA) 2,655 14. Alexander Zverev (GER) 2,500 15. Karen Khachanov 2,470 16. Frances Tiafoe (USA) 2,395 17. Pablo Carreno Busta (ESP) 2,240 18. Alex de Minaur (AUS) 2,165 (+4) 19. Tommy Paul (USA) 2,000 (+4) 20. Borna Coric (CRO) 1,905 (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tennis: Novak Djokovic extends record stay as world no.1, Carlos Alcaraz remains in pursuit

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