Carlos Alcaraz has regained the world number one ranking after outclassing Daniil Medvedev to win his maiden BNP Paribas Open title in Indian Wells.
The 19-year-old Spaniard beat Medvedev 6-3 6-2 to snap the Russian's 19-match winning streak.
He took control of proceedings from the get go, racing to a 3-0 lead in the opening set and winning the first 10 points of the second as he raced away to a 4-0 advantage.
This overwhelmed Medvedev who failed to produce his best tennis like he did in his semi-final victory over American Frances Tiafoe.
The Spaniard hit 18 winners to Medvedev's five and won 10 of 13 net points in an all-action victory.
"It means a lot to me. To recover the No. 1 [ranking] is crazy for me," said Alcaraz, who did not lose a set in six Indian Wells matches.
"But especially to lift the trophy here for me means a lot... I love this tournament.
"I really enjoy my time here and of course I felt the love from the people from day one.
"For me, it's amazing to complete these 10 days like this."
His success in the California desert means that he is now a three-time ATP Masters 1000 champion as well as the ninth and youngest man to win both legs of the Sunshine Double — Indian Wells and Miami — in his career.
He also joins countryman Rafael Nadal as the only players to win at least three Masters 1000 titles as a teenager, with Nadal having won six before turning 20.
He will return to World No. 1 in Monday's Pepperstone ATP Rankings and will have the opportunity to chase a fourth ATP Masters 1000 when he defends his Miami Open title from Saturday.
0 Comment(s)
SPONSORED
HEADLINE
TRENDING