Ajit Karn
Daniil Medvedev won his second ATP title in a week by defeating former world No. 1 Andy Murray
Daniil Medvedev defeated Andy Murray 6-4, 6-4 in the final of the Qatar Open on Saturday to win his second ATP title in a week. The 27-year-old world number eight, who won in Rotterdam seven days prior, defeated his 35-year-old opponent in Doha after the latter fought four three-set battles and survived eight match points.
Murray’s first serve was broken in each set by Medvedev, who remained unblemished in three matches against Murray. “A very difficult encounter; the wind was a bit stronger today, so it was difficult for both of us to find our cadence,” Medvedev said on court, while also complaining about the balls.
“Honestly, now that the tournament is over and I’ve triumphed, I believe that these balls are not suitable for hard courts.
“They altered something this year, and I dislike it. According to what I’ve heard, many other players are experiencing shoulder, elbow, and wrist pain.
“In Australia, I had forearm problems. I believe I struggled all week to find the ideal cadence with these balls, but I am pleased to have won.”
According to Medevedev, both athletes experienced “poor” periods during the match. Five aces were launched by the Russian, but he also committed five double faults. After errors, Murray continually yelled at himself and his support team.
Until he was serving with a 3-2 lead and two game points, it appeared that Medvedev would easily win the second set. Murray fought back and won the match with a superb backhand to even the score at 3-3.
At 4-4, Murray was dominating 40-0 in an attempt to pull off another upset, but the Scot allowed Medvedev back into the match for the decisive break that determined the champion.
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“Daniil is one of my favourite players to watch and one of the greatest on tour,” Murray said, recognising that he had experienced a “incredible week.”
Murray saved three match points in the first round and five against Jiri Lehecka of the Czech Republic in the semifinals.
