Daniil Medvedev withstood 29 aces from former champion Milos Raonic to prevail 6-7(2), 6-3, 6-4, at the Brisbane International.
The fourth seed was pushed to his limits by his Canadian opponent during the 129-minute match. Medvedev, who his seeking his fourth ATP title this week, remained unbroken throughout the entire encounter after fending off all eight break points he faced. During the opener, the Russian successfully saved a trio of set points whilst trailing 4-5, but come unstuck in the tiebreaker. Nevertheless, the world No.16 continued to fight during the next two sets to record his second consecutive tour win over Raonic.
“It is always tough to play Milos, he is one of the toughest opponents on tour because the way he serves is unbelievable. So I knew I had to hold my serve, even if he had many opportunities (to break) I didn’t lose it once.” Said Medvedev.
“I’m happy with the match and of course with the win.”
During the clash, the 22-year-old hit 33 winners to 21 unforced errors on route to a place in the last four of the tournament. In comparison, a more hit-and-miss Raonic blasted an impressive 49 winners, but came unstuck with his 38 mistakes. It was a string of errors produced by Raonic at 4-4 in the final set that enable Medvedev to break and close the match out.
Reflecting on his latest win, the Russian explained that his method of changing position constantly whilst serving has been inspired by a match he played at Wimbledon last year. In total he won 70% of the points behind his serve and produced only three double faults.
“It started at Wimbledon. I was losing to Mannarino by two sets to love, he was playing unbelievable. So I started to choose different positions to serve and I came back and almost won the match.” He explained.
“I saw the serve was hurting him a bit, so until everybody starts to return it, I will keep doing it.”
Bidding to become the first male player from his country to reach the final of the tournament, Medvedev will play either Alex De Minaur or Jo-Wilfried Tsonga next. He defeated De Minaur twice last year, but lost to Tsonga in their only meeting back in 2017.
“They are both amazing players.” Said Medvedev.
“I think it is going to be a great match. I have no idea who is going to win. As soon as it (the match) finishes I will start to prepare to play my next opponent.” He added.
Medvedev is the second highest ranked player left in the draw after Kei Nishikori.
