Carlos Alcaraz crowned champion this Sunday at Indian Wells, asserting the top spot in the world rankings. The achievement fills him and his team with pride as they celebrate what many call the tournament sometimes referred to as the fifth Grand Slam, recognizing the support and steady effort from everyone involved.
“Thank you for everything. I’m still very young and have a lot to learn, and it wasn’t easy, but I appreciate all the hard work,” the Spaniard said on the court after sealing the title in the California desert.
“I began the season strongly, though injuries slowed me down at times. Thanks for standing by me, for your patience and for all the hard work.” His coach described the success as the result of a diligent team effort led by the player Juan Carlos Ferrero.
Alcaraz Returns to No. 1 After Indian Wells Triumph, Leaving Medvedev No Choice
Alcaraz defeated Russian Daniil Medvedev, who had ridden an impressive run with 19 consecutive wins and three straight titles, by a score of 6-3, 6-2 in one hour and 11 minutes to clinch the Indian Wells final.
Beyond the ranking jump to world No. 1 and his third Masters 1000 crown after Miami and Madrid, Alcaraz earned a $1.26 million prize for capturing the season’s first Masters 1000 title. After a masterful display in the title match, Alcaraz also offered praise for Medvedev’s relentless run this fortnight.
“I want to congratulate you on the work you’ve done over the last couple of months. It’s an extraordinary achievement to win three events in a row and reach the final here,” the 19-year-old Spaniard remarked.
♂️ ‼️ ❤️ pic.twitter.com/2VFqYxB9VQ
– Carlos Alcaraz (@carlosalcaraz) 20 March 2023
Alcaraz reflected on last year, when he fell to Rafa Nadal in the Indian Wells semi-finals, and noted he has not dropped a set on his path to victory this year. He also expressed how special he finds this Masters 1000 event.
“This tournament is very special, from the first person to the last person working here. I really feel great playing here. This event is special, and I can’t wait to come back next year.”
Medvedev: “Alcaraz deservedly No. 1 in the world”
Russian rival Daniil Medvedev, who fell to Alcaraz in the final, stated that the Spaniard deserved the world number one ranking 100 percent. “Carlos is world No. 1, as he deserves. He’s earned more points than anyone in the last 52 weeks, and that’s how the standings work.” In response to questions about Novak Djokovic, who could not compete in the United States due to vaccine requirements, Medvedev offered his own perspective on the broader situation.
“Of course it’s sad that Novak isn’t able to play in every event, and I’m sure we all would love to see him compete more often. But that’s what happened. Rafa Nadal is dealing with an injury as well, and we can’t pretend otherwise. It’s the same with Novak.”
“Carlos has earned the top spot and he’s shown extraordinary consistency. He deservedly sits at No. 1.” Medvedev later praised Alcaraz on the court for his achievements and for maintaining a respectful demeanor—qualities he highlighted as emblematic of the tour’s best players.
“I think you say hello to hundreds of people every day,” Medvedev joked. He added, “I tried my best in the final, but it didn’t go my way. I don’t like losing, yet that’s how it goes sometimes.”
In the post-match press conference, Medvedev acknowledged Alcaraz’s supremacy and noted that he wasn’t at his best either. “He served well and played aggressively. He was the better player today,” he commented. Medvedev also mused about future matchups on faster surfaces and the opportunity to test his game anew, while affirming the competitive spirit that defines their rivalry.