Australian Open 2022: Daniil Medvedev draws inspiration from Novak Djokovic

Daniil Medvedev confessed that Novak Djokovic inspired his amazing quarter-final comeback to beat Felix Auger-Aliassime at Australian Open 2022, boos greeted the mention of the nine-time champion.

At the Australian Open 2022, Daniil Medvedev was facing defeat, two sets behind. Felix Auger-Aliassime, the man across the net, was putting on a show of his life. All faith seemed to be extinguished. But afterwards, out of the shadows, a question came to him: "What would Novak do?"

It worked like magic, whatever it was. Another night at Melbourne Park saw the absolute favourite pushed over the edge of defeat before recovering to win by 6-7 (4) 3-6 7-6 (2) 7-5 6-4. It seemed like he depicted a rematch of last year's semi-final against Stefanos Tsitsipas.

Subsequently, he thanked world no. 1 for giving him the confidence he required to turn things around. In Medvedev's words, "I was not playing my best and Felix was playing unbelievable, serving unbelievable, I didn't really know what to do. I don't know if you're going to like this but I told myself, 'What would Novak do?' What came into my mind, I just thought, 'OK, I'm going to make him work. If he wants to win it, he's going to have to fight until the last point'. I managed to raise my level." Following Djokovic's expulsion, Medvedev had done a good job of carrying the title of favourite. Although, it was evident from the beginning of this match that the Russian sensation would have his work cut out for him.

Read also: Australian Open 2022: Australian government cancels Djokovic's visa once again

A brief and crisp review of the match

Despite a crushing defeat in the semi-finals against Medvedev, Auger-Aliassime, 21, has started 2022 with new steel, helping Canada to the ATP Cup title. The 21-year-old Canadian was razor-sharp and laser-focused from the start. He served exceptionally well and pushed his forehand from behind, but he also produced a considerably more thoughtful match than he had previously. He shockingly won most medium and long rallies in the opening two sets, establishing a two-set advantage.

In the third set, though, with defeat looming, Medvedev gradually became the most concentrated and lethal variant of himself. He refined his return game, reduced his mistakes, and eventually started to dominate Auger-Aliassime's service and volley games. Hence, Medvedev conquered the match with his fine smashes and sharp winners.

The upcoming barrier

After such a tough win, Medvedev is to face Stefanos Tsitsitpass in the semi finale on Friday. Afterwards, the winner of the encounter will face either Matteo Berrettini or Rafael Nadal in the prestigious final match.

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