Daniil Medvedev continued his impressive run at the 2023 Indian Wells, overcoming Alejandro Davidovich Fokina in a hard-fought quarterfinals match.
The windy conditions at Indian Wells proved challenging for both players. However, Medvedev's previous two victories over Davidovich Fokina seemed to bolster his confidence. While the Russian had suffered an ankle injury during his fourth-round triumph over Alexander Zverev, he showed no signs of discomfort during the quarterfinal clash.
The first set saw Medvedev take control early, breaking Davidovich Fokina's serve in the second game. With a flawless performance on his first serve points, Medvedev maintained his advantage and secured the set 6-3 in just 39 minutes.
Davidovich Fokina put up a valiant fight in the second set, creating break point opportunities in each of Medvedev's first four service games. However, the Spaniard struggled to capitalize on these chances, and a marathon seventh game ensued.
A slip by Medvedev led to a medical timeout for a thumb injury, further extending the game. Despite the interruption, Davidovich Fokina managed to hold his serve, keeping the set competitive.
The match took another twist when Medvedev required a second stoppage to adjust the tape on his thumb. Unfazed by the disruption, the Russian showcased his serving prowess by saving three break points and holding serve.
On his next service game, for the first time, Medvedev didn't face any break points and he made good use of it by putting extra effort to his next return game. In that, he got the crucial break to lead 6-5 and close up on the win against the Spaniard.
With a final hold of serve, Medvedev clinched the victory, 6-3, 7-5, booking a semifinal showdown against Frances Tiafoe, who defeated Cameron Norrie in another blockbuster earlier on the day.
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