Carlos Alcaraz ended Jannik Sinner’s 19-match unbeaten run to arrange a closing in opposition to Daniil Medvedev at Indian Wells.
Australian Open winner Sinner was 2-1 up within the first set when the match was interrupted by a three-hour rain delay.
The Italian gained the opener once they resumed earlier than Spaniard Alcaraz fought again to assert a 1-6 6-3 6-2 victory.
Russia’s Medvedev additionally got here again from a set all the way down to win his semi-final 1-6 7-6 (7-3) 6-2 in opposition to American Tommy Paul.
The ultimate can be a repeat of final 12 months’s which Alcaraz gained comfortably.
“To have the ability to finish one thing like this, it is unimaginable for me,” mentioned world quantity two Alcaraz, 20, about halting Sinner’s streak.
“I stayed sturdy mentally – I believe that is a very necessary half on this sport.
“This sort of match, a set down taking part in in opposition to somebody that is taking part in an unbelievable sport – I am actually pleased with the issues I’ve performed.
“I modified my fashion somewhat bit, I modified my sport somewhat bit, and I believe it labored very, very nicely,”
Sinner’s requirements slipped within the third set, when he hit eight of his 15 unforced errors, whereas Alcaraz solely made two unforced errors within the decider.
“It is for certain not the ending that I needed, however taking part in in opposition to him is all the time robust,” mentioned world quantity three Sinner, 22.
“I attempted to play good tennis, which I’ve performed, particularly within the first set.
“Then I made a few errors. The momentum modified. He raised his degree.”
Alcaraz can be aiming to win his first title since Wimbledon final 12 months when he takes on Medvedev.
“I do know what occurred final 12 months so I will strive my finest to attempt to flip this round, to play higher, to play stronger, extra on the strains, hit extra aces, stuff like this,” mentioned the 28-year-old Russian.
“Hopefully I will do it.”
