In an epic quarter-final showdown at Rod Laver Arena, World No. 3 Daniil Medvedev secured his spot in the Australian Open semi-finals by overcoming the resilient Hubert Hurkacz. The intense match lasted three hours and 59 minutes, with Medvedev clinching victory with a 7-6, 2-6, 6-3, 5-7, 6-4 scoreline.
This marks Medvedev’s eighth Major semi-final appearance and his third consecutive one since Wimbledon. His next challenge will be against either Carlos Alcaraz or Alexander Zverev in the semi-final clash.
Despite Hubert Hurkacz’s commendable performance, firing 16 aces and outplaying Medvedev in winners, the Russian proved more effective in crucial moments. Medvedev managed to convert four breaks out of nine opportunities, while Hurkacz created 15 break chances but could only convert five.
The first set saw both players engaged in a fluid battle, with Medvedev securing a crucial break in the opening game. Although Hurkacz fought back to level, Medvedev’s solid performance in the tiebreak earned him the set. Hurkacz responded strongly, claiming the second set with a break in the opening game and maintaining the momentum to level the overall score.
The third set witnessed Medvedev taking a 3-0 lead after scoring a break in the second game. Despite Hurkacz’s resistance, Medvedev closed out the set, taking a 2-1 lead in sets. In the fourth set, Medvedev secured an early break but faced a late resurgence from Hurkacz, who forced a decider by breaking at 6-5.
The fifth set remained tightly contested until Medvedev crucially broke in the seventh game, securing a 5-3 advantage. Despite Hurkacz’s efforts to extend the battle with a love hold, Medvedev closed out the match with a 5-4 victory, booking his place in the semi-finals.
Medvedev’s resilience and strategic play in crucial moments highlight his determination to secure the Australian Open title. The upcoming semi-final promises another thrilling chapter in his quest for Grand Slam success.
