The Rod Laver Arena was in tune for a game that was expected a lot, especially due to the presence of the controversial local tennis player.
Despite the preference of the capacity, the Russian knew how to prevail in the first set in a tie break taking the set 7-6 (1). In the second set the tone did not change much and the 2021 finalist again prevailed against his rival, this time with a score of 6-4.
The public prompted Nick, who knew how to raise his level, break and assert the difference to take the third set, with a score of 6-4.
In the fourth set, already with an important playing time, the Russian knew how to assert all the rhythm that he has been having for months and won 6-2.
The game of Daniel It did not vary much from usual, with accurate shots from the bottom and the occasional drop. He knew how to put 21 aces, against 17 of his rival on duty.
With his first serve he won 85% of the points, while with the second it dropped considerably to 57%.
Thus, the maximum favorite will now face the Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp, who comes from advancing after abandoning Richard Gasquet. If he wins, the current world number 2 will face the winner of the game between Christopher O’connell and Maxime Cressy.
The only precedent between the Russian and the Dutch corresponds to the quarterfinals of the 2021 US Open, where the champion of that tournament, that is Medvedev, won in four sets.
boos
After the game and the required interview at the stadium, Medvedev was booed, however he knew how to get out of the bad moment asking for respect for Jim Courier, who was in charge of the interview.
The Russian acknowledged that he had to remain calm, while being booed between the first and second serves.
“I just want to play my best tennis and from there see if I can achieve something big”, fueled for what’s to come.
The future of Kyrgios
Kyrgios put up a fight, despite arriving with a long inactivity, more precisely from the Laver Cup, held in September last year.
In the first round, the Australian was able to clearly beat Liam Broady in straight sets, demonstrating an interesting level and a great connection with the public.
As for the game this Thursday, Nick again showed off his skills, however the physical did not respond to him with the running of the game.
Now we will see what happens with the talented tennis player, who on several occasions spoke of his lack of motivation. It is known that he refuses to play on clay and may make appearances in Miami or Indian Wells.
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