Daniil Medvedev advanced from a very complicated match against Martin Landaluce 1-6, 6-4, 7-5, in which the Spaniard seriously troubled the Russian, but ultimately the experience of the former world No. 1 prevailed. The Russian prepares to challenge Jannik Sinner’s unstoppable streak in the Rome Open semifinals.
It was an especially difficult duel for the world No. 9, who had to suffer and recover from a break down in the third set against a notable Landaluce. Medvedev returns to the semifinals of a Masters 1000 for the 18th time in his career and for the second time in Rome, where he won the title in 2023.
“He played unreal at the beginning,” Medvedev said about his opponent Landaluce – currently world No. 94 and who will rise almost 30 positions in the ATP Ranking to No. 65 next Monday. “If he plays like he did in the first set of every match, he will be Top 5 by the end of the year, in Turin… When you’re young, it’s tough to play a full match like this, so I just fought. I’m happy that I managed to seal the victory.”
Medvedev failed to convert three match points on return at 5-4, but kept his composure until the final minutes. After going up 6-5, he earned a break to love – taking advantage of the tension that had built up on his opponent.
“I am happy to have won such a tough match. On clay, I feel there are more swings, more momentum shifts, so I'm pleased to have fully returned to the match after the first set, and also to have come back after a slow start in the third,” commented Medvedev about Landaluce. “In the end, I felt I was playing better than him, whether due to physical or perhaps tennis-related reasons.
"I was not able to capitalize on all the opportunities I had before, but I'm content to have given my all and ultimately clinched the victory.”"
Medvedev and Landaluce exchange words after tense Rome clash
A particular moment occurred during the exchange between both players at the net. After the handshake, television cameras captured the comments they shared after two hours and 24 minutes of play.
“Great battle,” Medvedev told his opponent while greeting him after the match.
“Sorry for the ball (smash),” said Landaluce, apologizing for a recent shot that unintentionally hit Medvedev a few points earlier.
“Oh yes! There’s no problem. I was annoyed at the time, but it was to win the point,” Medvedev replied with a smile. “Good fight, good fight.”
Medvedev now prepares for his duel against Jannik Sinner this Friday in the semifinals, in which the Italian leads the head-to-head 9–7. Although it appears close, Sinner has won 9 of their last 10 encounters. However, this will be the first time they face each other on clay courts.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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