After favorite Rafael Nadal clearly won the first set, Sebastian Korda surprisingly hit back in the second set.
The world number 38. turned the game around and also led in the third set after two breaks, seemingly uncatchable with 5:2. However, the American showed nerves when he served himself.
Nadal, in turn, fought back with three straight game wins – but remained vulnerable. When the score was 5: 5, the Australian Open champion had to fend off another break ball from Korda.
ATP Indian Wells
Medvedev wins first game as world number one
2 HOURS AGO
The decision was made in the tie-break, in which the record Grand Slam champion had the upper hand 7:3 and ended the match after 2:29 hours with the first match point in his favour. Next opponent is Daniel Evans. The Briton clearly prevailed 6-2, 6-0 against Federico Coria from Argentina.
Medvedev leaves nothing to chance
The best scenes – that’s how Medvedev’s first match went as number one
In the round of 32, the winner of the game between Filip Krajinovic and Gaël Monfils is now waiting for Medvedev.
Final: Nadal defeats Medvedev after 5:24 hours – highlights
ATP Miami
Nadal makes surprising decision: no fight against final curse
4 HOURS AGO
ATP Indian Wells
The best scenes – that’s how Medvedev’s first match went as number one
AN HOUR AGO
