Yuki Bhambri’s impressive run at the Indian Wells Masters ended in the semifinals as he and Swedish partner Andre Goransson lost to the cousins Arthur Rinderknech and Valentin Vacherot in a three-set thriller.
Bhambri, making his first semifinal appearance at a Masters 1000 event, had earlier powered through the draw without dropping a set. The duo defeated high-profile teams including Daniil Medvedev and Learner Tien, Novak Djokovic and Stefanos Tsitsipas, and the Russian pair of Andrey Rublev and Karen Khachanov. Their momentum carried them into the desert showdown against the French-Monegasque cousins.
The semifinal began with Rinderknech and Vacherot edging the first set 7-5. Bhambri and Goransson fought back in the second, forcing a tiebreaker and levelling the match. The deciding 10-point match tiebreak saw the cousins capitalise on their chemistry, closing out the contest 10-5. Despite generating 11 break point chances, Bhambri and Goransson managed to convert only one, which proved costly.
For Bhambri, the result marked progress from his quarterfinal finish at Indian Wells in 2025. The 33-year-old continues to chase a landmark title, remaining a consistent presence on the doubles circuit. His performance in California showcased resilience and skill, reinforcing his reputation as a veteran capable of challenging the best.
Awaiting Rinderknech and Vacherot in the final are Guido Andreozzi of Argentina and Manuel Guinard of France.
