Mеdvedev ends Djokovic’s winning streak to set up all-Russian final

Daniiel Medvedev defeated Novak Djokovic 6-4, 6-4 on Friday, handing the world number one’s first loss of the year, to reach the Dubai Tennis Championships’ final.

Miraculous from Medvedev 🤯

This titanic duel has just produced THE point of the week!@DDFTennis | #DDFTennis | @DaniilMedwed pic.twitter.com/buAD8xvFef

— ATP Tour (@atptour) March 3, 2023

The third seed stood deep behind the baseline to soak up the Serbian’s ball-striking and sealed the victory in one hour and 35 minutes.

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Medvedev committed just 12 unforced errors compared to 38 from Djokovic, unbeaten in 20 games since November, and he was rapid around the court, chasing down a number of drop shots.

“When you play against Novak you just have to play your best,” Medvedev said.

“Kind of hope he doesn’t play his best on the day because when he plays his best, well he has 22 Grand Slams, so even if you play your best, it is going to be tough, not sure you win.

“I managed to play a higher level than him today. In the second set I didn’t face one break point, but there were so many 30/30 games. But I managed to stay composed, and I am happy to be in the final tomorrow.”

Medvedev will play against his compatriot Andrey Rublev in tomorrow’s final.