In the deciding set, momentum swung in Thiem’s favour when he smacked a forehand winner down the line to break Federer and take a 6-5 lead.

He fell on his back and covered his face with his hands when Federer, who had been bidding for a record sixth Indian Wells title and 101st tournament victory overall, sent a shot into the net on match point.

The 25-year-old Thiem will rise four places to a career-high world number four on Monday.