Carlos Alcaraz Sharpens Game Ahead of Indian Wells

World No. 1 practices with Belgian player Zizou Bergs as he aims to extend unbeaten start to 2026 season.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Carlos Alcaraz, the world's top-ranked men's tennis player, has arrived at the Indian Wells tournament with immense confidence after winning all 12 of his official matches so far in 2026. The 22-year-old Spaniard has already triumphed at the Australian Open and the Doha ATP 500 this year, showcasing his maturity and resilience. Alcaraz has a strong history at Indian Wells, winning the title in 2023 and 2024, and is looking to continue his unbeaten run as he begins his campaign at the prestigious event.

Why it matters

Alcaraz's dominance at the start of the 2026 season has allowed him to build a significant lead over his closest rival, Jannik Sinner, in the ATP rankings. His success has cemented his position as the world's top player, and a strong performance at Indian Wells would further solidify his status as the player to beat on the men's tour.

The details

Alcaraz has been preparing for the Indian Wells tournament by practicing with Belgian player Zizou Bergs, a seven-time Grand Slam champion. The world No. 1 was spotted wearing a jersey of NBA legend LeBron James, a nod to his admiration for the Los Angeles Lakers star. Alcaraz has been placed directly into the second round of the tournament with a bye, and he will face the winner of the match between Grigor Dimitrov and Terence Atmane.

  • Alcaraz has won all 12 of his official matches so far in 2026.
  • Alcaraz won the Indian Wells title in 2023 and 2024.
  • Alcaraz was eliminated in the semifinals of the 2025 Indian Wells tournament.

The players

Carlos Alcaraz

The world's top-ranked men's tennis player, who has won all 12 of his official matches so far in 2026, including titles at the Australian Open and Doha ATP 500.

Zizou Bergs

A Belgian player and seven-time Grand Slam champion, who has been practicing with Alcaraz ahead of the Indian Wells tournament.

Jannik Sinner

Alcaraz's closest rival in the ATP rankings, who trails the world No. 1 by more than 3,000 points.

Jack Draper

The player who eliminated Alcaraz in the semifinals of the 2025 Indian Wells tournament.

Grigor Dimitrov

The player who Alcaraz could face in the second round of the Indian Wells tournament.

Terence Atmane

The player who Alcaraz could face in the second round of the Indian Wells tournament.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

Alcaraz will face the winner of the match between Grigor Dimitrov and Terence Atmane in the second round of the Indian Wells tournament.

The takeaway

Alcaraz's dominant start to the 2026 season has cemented his status as the world's top player, and a strong performance at the prestigious Indian Wells tournament would further solidify his position at the top of the men's tennis rankings.