Bencic Powers Through to Indian Wells Third Round
Published: March 7, 2026
By 247sports.news Staff
Swiss Star Dominates in Straight Sets
Belinda Bencic (WTA 12) secured a comfortable victory over qualifier Storm Hunter (WTA 234) in the second round of the WTA 1000 Indian Wells tournament, winning 6-3, 6-2. The win propels Bencic into the third round, where she will face the winner of the match between Elise Mertens and Cristina Bucsa.
Match Recap
Hunter, who reached the second round after defeating world number 36 Magdalena Frech, proved no match for the in-form Bencic. The match lasted just over 30 minutes, with Bencic demonstrating her dominance. As reported by WTA Tennis, Bencic is looking to replicate past success at Indian Wells.
“Like five years ago in Adelaide where she lost 6-2 6-4 in their first confrontation, Storm Hunter did not have the means to oppose such an involved Belinda Bencic.”
blick.ch
Bencic’s performance marks a strong start to her campaign in the Californian desert, a tournament where she has previously enjoyed success, reaching the semi-finals in 2019 and the quarter-finals last year.
Looking Ahead
Bencic’s next opponent will present a tougher challenge. She will face either Elise Mertens (WTA 21) or Cristina Bucsa (WTA 31) on Monday. The Swiss player will be aiming to build on this momentum and make another deep run at Indian Wells.
Bencic has shown flashes of brilliance at the start of the year, and this victory could be the catalyst for a strong showing in the tournament. According to the WTA official website, Bencic’s career high ranking is No. 4, achieved on February 17, 2020.
Belinda Bencic: A Career Overview
- Current Ranking: No. 11 (as of February 9, 2026)
- Career High Ranking: No. 4 (February 17, 2020)
- Singles Titles: 10
- Olympic Gold Medal: 2020 Tokyo Olympics
- Prize Money: US$ 15,643,039
FAQ
What is Belinda Bencic’s current ranking?
As of February 9, 2026, Belinda Bencic is ranked No. 11 in the world.
Has Belinda Bencic ever won a Grand Slam title?
While she has not won a Grand Slam singles title, she won a gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
What are some of Belinda Bencic’s recent achievements?
In 2025, Bencic had a remarkable season, rising from No. 421 to No. 11 in the rankings and winning titles at Abu Dhabi and Tokyo.
