Medvedev's epic battle against Alcaraz paves the way to US Open Final duel with Djokovic

Daniil Medvedev defeated the defending champion, Carlos Alcaraz, 7-6(3), 6-1, 3-6, 6-3, and is now vying for his second US Open title against Novak Djokovic.

The young Spanish player had hoped to return to the final at Flushing Meadows to defend the title he won in 2022. With a streak of 12 consecutive victories at the US Open, Alcaraz showcased his strength in the quarterfinals by sweeping past Alexander Zverev 6-3, 6-2, 6-4.

World No. 3, Daniil Medvedev, also arrived with high ambitions in the tournament where he claimed his only Grand Slam title in 2021. The Russian advanced to the quarterfinals by defeating his close friend, world No. 8 Andrey Rublev, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4.

In the beginning, it was Alcaraz who took the initiative, especially capitalizing on Medvedev's low first-serve percentage (only 57% compared to 'Carlitos' 83%). Medvedev had trouble closing out his service games and saved two break points against him in the fourth game to maintain parity.

Gradually, the Russian improved his service precision, although he could do little against Alcaraz's service, who did not face any break points against him during the set.

With the score level, they reached the tie-break, with Medvedev's solidity in returning becoming increasingly noticeable. The Russian took a 4-3 lead and secured two consecutive mini-breaks to close out the set 7-6(3).

The advantage gave Medvedev a boost, and he returned in the second set, displaying even better tennis. The 27-year-old athlete improved his service and reduced unforced errors compared to Alcaraz, who struggled against the impeccable level of the Russian. Medvedev only lost two points on his serve and secured two breaks to claim the second set 6-2. Few would have expected Medvedev to dominate the world No. 1 so convincingly, but 'Carlitos' had more to show and played a great third set.

The Spanish player secured the first break in the fourth game, which was enough to maintain his service and take the set 6-3.

An explosive start to the fourth set had Alcaraz with three break points in his favor, but he couldn't capitalize on them. In the sixth game, 20 points were played, and finally, Medvedev secured the break on his second chance.

Alcaraz had three break points in his favor when Medvedev was serving at 5-3, but the Russian ultimately saved them and capitalized on his fourth match point to seal the victory.

On Sunday, the final will feature the same protagonists as in 2021, with Medvedev and Djokovic, where the trophy was claimed by the Russian with a score of 6-4, 6-4, 6-4.