Bhubaneswar: Daniil Medvedev achieved a significant milestone on Friday at the Rolex Shanghai Masters, defeating Alex de Minaur 6-4, 6-4 to reach his second ATP Masters 1000 semifinal of the season. This victory marked Medvedev’s 50th win against Top 10 opponents, underscoring his consistent excellence at the highest level of men’s tennis.
In a physically demanding match lasting one hour and 53 minutes, Medvedev demonstrated his resilience and skill. He struck 27 winners compared to de Minaur’s 16 and committed two fewer unforced errors (25 to 27). Medvedev’s serving was particularly effective in the second set, winning 15 of 16 first-serve points.
Reflecting on the match, Medvedev acknowledged the challenges posed by de Minaur’s relentless baseline play. “I was super tired and I knew against Alex, like against Learner, we would have long points,” Medvedev said. “I think in the third or fourth game we had a couple and I thought it was going to be a long day, but I am happy with the way I played.” He added, “I was really clutch in the important moments and hitting the ball great and putting him under pressure. The second set was tight but I found the best at the end. I am really happy with the level.”
Medvedev, who previously won the Shanghai title in 2019, is aiming to capture his 21st tour-level title and first since Rome in May 2023. In the semifinals, he will face Frenchman Arthur Rinderknech, who reached his first ATP Masters 1000 semifinal by defeating Felix Auger-Aliassime earlier in the day.
The Rolex Shanghai Masters runs from October 1–12, 2025, at the Qizhong Forest Sports City Arena.
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