Daniil Medvedev, a three-time Australian Open runner-up, prepared for this year’s first Grand Slam by clinching the Brisbane International title on Sunday. The Russian, ranked 13th in the world, displayed
his prowess against American Brandon Nakashima, securing a 6-2, 7-6 (7/1) victory in 96 minutes at Pat Rafter Arena, marking his 22nd ATP Tour title.
Medvedev dominated the first set, breaking Nakashima twice and setting himself up for an anticipated swift win. Although Nakashima mounted a comeback in the second set, forcing a tiebreak, Medvedev surged ahead with a 5-0 lead in the tiebreaker, effectively sealing the match.
Reflecting on his performance, Medvedev acknowledged Nakashima’s resilience, stating, “I started pretty strong but then Brandon found his way back, saved some match points then almost got it to a third set.”
The Australian Open is set to commence in Melbourne next Sunday, January 18. Medvedev expressed his satisfaction with his season’s start, recalling his previous final in Brisbane in 2019 and his determination to return and win. “I said then that I would try and come back and win it. I came back seven or eight years later and I’m happy to hold the trophy,” Medvedev said.
With AFP Inputs
