ALMATY – Daniil Medvedev claimed victory at the Almaty Open, defeating Georgia’s Nikoloz Basilashvili 6-7 (6-8), 6-1, 6-3 in the final, marking his successful title defense from 2022. This win further establishes Medvedev’s strong form as he approaches the end of the tennis season.
With recent titles at the Hangzhou Open and impressive runs to the semi-finals at both the China Open and the Shanghai Masters, Medvedev stated, “If I can keep playing at the level I’m playing right now, I’ll have my chances to beat basically any opponent, and that gives you the chance to win tournaments.”
Medvedev’s participation in the Almaty tournament was uncertain following the physical demands of his tournament run in China. However, he committed to the event, a decision that has likely secured his place in the ATP Finals in Turin.
He reflected on the competition, acknowledging the constant challenge from skilled opponents: “You can always face someone who plays well. For example, Rafa played a great match against me in Shanghai. I won the match here, but Nikoloz played a great set against me.” Medvedev noted how Basilashvili could have altered the match’s outcome had he won the second set.
As the world No. 5, Medvedev enters a crucial part of his season, anticipating his upcoming matches in Vienna, Paris, and the ATP Finals. His performance positions him as a top contender for the European indoor circuit, especially following the absence of defending champion Jannik Sinner, who is sidelined due to injury.
Medvedev’s recent triumph in Almaty marks his fourth title this year, and it is notable for being the first time he has successfully defended a title he won the previous year. He expressed satisfaction with this achievement, stating, “Today it’s a double feeling…a title is always a title, but it is very nice, because it had never happened to me before.”
As the tournament wraps up, Medvedev looks ahead to Vienna, aiming to build on his recent successes and solidify his standing in the ATP rankings.
