Cincinnati 17th August : Russian player Daniil Medvedev fought through an intense second-set battle to secure a 6-4, 7-5 win against Botic van de Zandschulp of the Netherlands and advance to the third round of the Western & Southern Open in Cincinnati. “The second set wasn’t as straight,” conceded Medvedev, who gave up the break advantage and snatched a set point serving in the second set.”The initial set was fantastic.The game was going well.I played three games in which I faced break points, but I was able to get a break in the opening game and that sufficed,” the Russian was quoted by atptour.com.
“The second set was quite well.He (van de Zandschulp) did not serve particularly well, and was committing lots of double mistakes.Thus, I tried to stay under the pressure and take my chances.
In the end I think I did a great job.Two breaks on these courts are enough to win.I could have done better with my serve.However, the first match was difficult, and I’m pleased that I made it but I’m hoping that I can improve my performance in the next games,” said Medvedev.
Van de Zandschulp continued to be plagued by inconsistent serve as he ended with 11 double-faults.
“It is something that happens to me (in) certain competitions,” Medvedev said of the Dutch player’s issues with serving.”You do not know the reason, you simply can’t put another serve in and I actually have done a few of them during the match.(in the final match).It could be that it was something with the balls becoming a bit weighty with the humidity.” Medvedev said.Medvedev.
Medvedev will next meet Montreal quarterfinalist Tommy Paul of the US or Denis Shapovalov of Canada, with the possibility of a repeat match with the Australian Nick Kyrgios looming in the final eight.
In the meantime, Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz breezed past home favorite Mackenzie McDonald 6-3, 6-2 in his second-round match, securing his first victory in his second Cincinnati appearance.
“I’m very satisfied with my performance today,” he said.”One of the goals in this tournament is to improve with the pressure.to be able to enjoy like I did at the beginning of the year and last year.
To be able to enjoy playing great tennis and to relax.I believe in this round I achieved it, and I’m very pleased with it.”
Third seeded in this match, Alcaraz will next face Marin Cilic.
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