Djokovic beats Medvedev to book final spot in Adelaide despite injury scare
ATP
The 2023 Adelaide International 1 featured one of the best possible semi-final matchups as two former ATP World No. 1 players met.
Novak Djokovic took on Daniil Medvedev as both players were yet to lose a set in Australia this year. The Serbian previously defeated Constant Lestienne, Quentin Halys, and Denis Shapovalov.
Medvedev, on the other hand, bested Lorenzo Sonego, Miomir Kecmanovic, and compatriot Karen Khachanov on his way to the semi-finals of the ATP 250 tournament in Adelaide.
Djokovic started well in the first set as he broke his opponent already in the fourth game and soon enjoyed a three-game lead at 4-1. He then faced a break point in the seventh game, leading 4-2, but his opponent couldn't break him, and the Serbian increased his lead to 5-2.
However, Djokovic seemingly struggled with a thigh injury. As a result, he took a medical timeout, which saw him being treated for 10 minutes. Eventually, the Serbian returned to the court, able to continue competing, and won the first set 6-3.
In the second set, both players were really solid on their serves, and for a moment, it seemed that a tie-break would be needed to decide it. Medvedev is a great serve, also thanks to his height. On the other hand, Djokovic is a great server despite his height.
The 21-time Grand Slam champion showed his returning qualities as well to break his opponent to get a 4-3 lead. In the next game, Djokovic faced two break points from Medvedev, but his shots didn't let him down when he needed it and increased the lead to 5-3.
Both players then held their serve comfortably and so Djokovic won the match 6-3, 6-4 in an hour and 24 minutes to book a final spot at the 2023 Adelaide International 1. In the final, he will meet Sebastian Korda.
