Medvedev and Tien Doubles Team Eliminated Early at Indian Wells

The highly anticipated pairing lost in the first round of the BNP Paribas Open.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The doubles team of Daniil Medvedev and Learner Tien, who have faced each other four times in the past year with Tien winning three matches, were eliminated in the first round of the Indian Wells BNP Paribas Open. The two players have spoken highly of each other, so fans were excited to see them team up, but they were not able to practice together beforehand due to travel issues.

Why it matters

Medvedev and Tien's early exit was disappointing for fans who were looking forward to seeing the friendly rivals team up. Their potential matchup in the singles tournament at Indian Wells is now the main focus, as they remain on opposite sides of the draw.

The details

Medvedev, the Dubai Open champion, was stuck in Dubai due to Middle East tensions and was not able to play in the Eisenhower Cup mixed doubles exhibition that kicked off the BNP Paribas Open. Tien was also dealing with physical issues, cramping up after a difficult singles match. The duo did not get to practice together, and at one point, Tien said he had not even seen Medvedev at Indian Wells yet.

  • Medvedev and Tien lost in the first round of the Indian Wells BNP Paribas Open.
  • Medvedev was stuck in Dubai and unable to participate in the Eisenhower Cup mixed doubles exhibition.

The players

Daniil Medvedev

A professional tennis player who is the current Dubai Open champion.

Learner Tien

A professional tennis player who has defeated Medvedev three times in their four previous matchups.

Michael Chang

Tien's coach, who is a former French Open champion.

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What’s next

Medvedev and Tien could potentially meet in the singles tournament at Indian Wells if they both make it to the final.

The takeaway

The early exit of the highly anticipated Medvedev-Tien doubles team was disappointing for fans, but their potential matchup in the singles tournament remains the main focus at Indian Wells.