Alcaraz Cruises Past Dimitrov in Indian Wells Opener

World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz wins 13th straight match at tournament

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Spanish tennis star Carlos Alcaraz started his Indian Wells Open campaign with a dominant 6-2, 6-3 victory over Grigor Dimitrov on Sunday. The 20-year-old world No. 1 looked in impressive form, extending his win streak at the tournament to 13 matches. Alcaraz, who won the Australian Open earlier this year, said he adapted well to the windy conditions and was happy with his overall performance.

Why it matters

Alcaraz is one of the rising stars of men's tennis, having won his first Grand Slam title at the Australian Open in January. His strong start at Indian Wells, a prestigious ATP Masters 1000 event, signals that he is carrying that momentum into the new season and establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with on the tour.

The details

Alcaraz, the world No. 1, cruised past Dimitrov in just over an hour, winning 6-2, 6-3. He said he had to adjust his game to the windy conditions but was pleased with how he adapted. Alcaraz has now won 13 straight matches at Indian Wells, having won the title in 2022. His next opponent will be 26th seed Arthur Rinderknech, against whom Alcaraz holds a 5-0 head-to-head advantage.

  • Alcaraz started his Indian Wells campaign on Sunday, March 8, 2026.

The players

Carlos Alcaraz

A 20-year-old Spanish tennis player who is the current world No. 1 and the reigning Australian Open champion.

Grigor Dimitrov

A 31-year-old Bulgarian tennis player who is currently ranked No. 28 in the world.

Arthur Rinderknech

A 26-year-old French tennis player who is the 26th seed at the Indian Wells tournament.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I knew it was going to be difficult with the conditions. His style is really, really dangerous, and it is always tough to control the ball when he steps on the court, and he is hitting his shots. With the wind today, it was even tougher, and I think I adapted my game better, and that is why I took the match. In general, I am really, really happy with the things that I have done today.”

— Carlos Alcaraz (ATP)

“I love playing here. I love being here so, so much. I think that is why I am playing relaxed, playing calm, chilling, trying to enjoy every time I step on the court.”

— Carlos Alcaraz (ATP)

What’s next

Alcaraz's next match will be against 26th seed Arthur Rinderknech, whom he has defeated in all 5 of their previous meetings.

The takeaway

Alcaraz's dominant win over Dimitrov to start his Indian Wells campaign shows he is in top form and poised to defend his title at this prestigious ATP Masters 1000 event. The young Spaniard's continued success will only further cement his status as one of the rising superstars of men's tennis.