An enthralling tussle between Novak Djokovic and Daniil Medvedev ended at one set all in Astana following “a strange pop” in the Russian’s adductor muscle.
Medvedev had recently won his first grand slam title, defeating Djokovic in the US Open final to thwart the Serb’s bid for a calendar-year grand slam, and as Djokovic exacted a measure of revenge with a three-set victory in Paris-Bercy, it seemed likely their rivalry would dominate the men’s game in 2022.
Stefanos Tsitsipas came through 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 against Andrey Rublev of Russia. Having started the stronger, Rublev, seeded fifth, slowly imploded as he was reeled in by the Greek, repeatedly whacking himself in the thigh with his racket after dropping serve to concede the second set. The Russian continued to berate himself in the decider, repeatedly voicing his frustration to his box.
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“It went my way towards the end,” said Tsitsipas, the third seed. “I stayed completely within my game.
“It was not easy, being a set down. To have to deal with a very good opponent on the other side of the net made it an extremely physically battle. I am pleased with myself for being so determined to make it work so well.”
Tsitsipas will be seeking his first title at ATP 500 level after eight losing final appearances.
“I wouldn’t say I have choked in any of them,” said the 24-year-old. “I’d say it’s just bad luck that I haven’t been able to get a victory in one of them.”