Medvedev survives Hurkacz in quarterfinal thriller to reach Toronto semifinals

It was a long Friday night for Daniil Medvedev, as the top seed was forced to rally from a set deficit to battle past Hubert Hurkacz and advance to the semifinals at the National Bank Open (Rogers Cup).

The World No.2 required two hours and 16 minutes to pull off the 2-6 7-6(6) 7-6(5) victory, overcoming some superb play by his Polish opponent. Both men are known for their big serves and powerful groundstrokes, but it was Hurkacz who held his composure to earn two early breaks and escape with the first set.

Despite his subpar play in the opening set, Medvedev was able to regroup and extend the second set to a tiebreak. It was here that his experience in extreme situations was on display, as the Russian kept his cool to clinch the second set.

The final set saw no breaks of serve, as Hurkacz managed to hold serve despite facing pressure from his opponent. After saving two match points, the seventh seed extended the match to another tiebreak. With a spot in the semifinals on the line, it was Medvedev who prevailed, sealing the victory with his 23rd ace.

The top seed will face the winner between American John Isner and 11th seed Gael Monfils, with a place in the final on the line.