The stage is set for another thrilling battle in the California desert as Tommy Paul and Daniil Medvedev gear up for a highly anticipated rematch at the BNP Paribas Open. Last year, Paul came agonizingly close to reaching his first Masters 1000 final, only to see his hopes dashed after an unfortunate injury derailed his momentum. Now, he has a golden opportunity to settle the score against Medvedev in front of a home crowd.
A Rivalry Reignited
In 2024, Paul was in command early against the former World No. 1, storming to a 4-0 lead in just 15 minutes. The American took the opening set and found himself on the verge of victory in the second-set tiebreak when disaster struck—an awkward landing on a forehand caused him to roll his left ankle. Despite receiving treatment, he couldn’t maintain his level, allowing Medvedev to escape with a 1-6, 7-6(3), 6-2 victory.
Medvedev acknowledged Paul’s dominance that day, admitting, “Tommy just showed everyone how to beat me, how to play on the lines, full power. He was playing unbelievably, and I didn’t know what to do. I just had to keep searching for solutions.”
Paul got a measure of revenge two months later, taking down Medvedev in straight sets at the Italian Open. Now, with their head-to-head standing at 3-1 in Medvedev’s favor, Paul is eager to tilt the balance further in his direction.
Paul’s Unfinished Business
Paul’s rise in the rankings has been nothing short of impressive. The New Jersey native broke into the ATP Top 10 in January and currently sits at No. 11, but he’s not resting on his laurels. After defeating former Indian Wells champion Cameron Norrie to reach the round of 16, Paul made it clear he’s still hungry for more.
“I’m going back to work,” Paul told Tennis Channel. “Just trying to get better, improve on everything a little bit, and move up the rankings even more.”
His coach, Brad Stine, believes Paul is just getting started. “There are still a lot of things he hasn’t accomplished yet,” Stine said. “He won his first ATP 500 title last year, but he hasn’t won a Masters 1000—I think he’s capable of doing that.”
Medvedev’s Road to Redemption
For Medvedev, the 2025 season has yet to yield a final appearance, and the No. 6-ranked Russian is eager to change that. A two-time Indian Wells finalist, Medvedev knows how tough Paul can be.
“Our styles cancel each other out,” Medvedev said. “He beat me in a good fashion in Rome, and our match here last year was crazy. I definitely expect another great battle.”
A Pivotal Clash with Big Stakes
With both players among the highest-ranked competitors in their half of the draw, Tuesday’s showdown could be a defining moment in the tournament. The winner will be in prime position to make a deep run—perhaps even all the way to Sunday’s final.
Indian Wells fans are in for a treat, as two of the ATP’s most dynamic competitors prepare for what promises to be a high-intensity battle. Who will seize the moment in the desert? Stay tuned.
source
