Daniil Medvedev has advanced to the round of 16 in the Men's singles at the Indian Wells Masters, defeating Filip Krajinovic with a score of 6-2, 7-6(1). This result was somewhat unexpected for the crowd, as Krajinovic had previously dismantled Medvedev in straight sets in only 78 minutes during their match at the BNP Paribas Open two years ago.
Following a significant delay caused by rain, the top seed from Russia started the match strong, immediately taking a 4-0 lead in the first set. The second set saw a surge from Krajinovic, who managed to lead 4-2, but Medvedev's speed and momentum eventually allowed him to push the set into a tie-break.
Medvedev took complete control of the tie-break to secure the match. Even though Krajinovic avoided double faults, he struggled to dictate play. In a decisive stretch, Medvedev won 9 points in a row, while Krajinovic could only secure five.
Boasting a 70% first-serve success rate and four aces, the US Open champion put in a solid performance. After a favorable first set, he elevated his game in the second to ensure the victory. This win brings Medvedev's season record to 50-10, setting up a fourth-round clash with Grigor Dimitrov of Bulgaria.
In one of the biggest upsets at Indian Wells, Tommy Paul achieved a career-defining victory by taking down Andrey Rublev. Paul fought through a grueling match to win 6-4, 3-6, 7-5, surprising everyone by eliminating the fourth seed. The American's serving was remarkably consistent, with only one unsuccessful service game throughout the match, culminating in a stellar final set.
Andrey Rublev struggled to find his rhythm and consistency, unlike his usual form this season. Paul, meanwhile, hit five aces and maintained a 60% first-serve percentage. Although a few double faults cost Paul the second set, he bounced back with intensity in the decider. Leading 5-3 in the final set, Paul missed a match point with a long backhand, allowing Rublev to break back and level the score. However, the world no. 60 stayed composed, eventually clinching the win after a battle lasting two hours and 24 minutes.
Paul came to serve with a 5-3 lead in the decider. He hit a long backhand approach shot on the match point. Rublev then broke his serve and played with high energy to equalize the clash. However, the world no.60 player remained calm and clinched the victory after battling for two hours and 24 minutes.
This victory marks a milestone for the American, who has now reached the fourth round of an ATP Masters 1000 event for the first time. It also represents his second win against a Top 10 player. Paul's next opponent in the fourth round will be Britain's Cameron Norrie.