Medvedev set to meet Humbert in semis, aiming to retain Dubai title

Reigning champion Daniil Medvedev beats Davidovich Fokina at Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships to take one step closer to emulating Federer’s 2015 feat

Dubai: In the thrilling semifinals of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships on February 29, 2024, Daniil Medvedev secured his spot after a commanding victory against Alejando Davidovich Fokina, clinching a 6-2, 6-3 win. This triumph not only extended his unbeaten streak to eight matches at the Dubai Tennis Stadium but also positioned him closer to a historic back-to-back win, a feat last achieved by Roger Federer in 2015.

Medvedev showcased his mastery on Centre Court, breaking his opponent’s serve four times with an array of powerful forehands, precise slices, and deft drop shots, amassing 15 winners while limiting unforced errors to just six. Despite facing challenges, including windy conditions, Medvedev’s resilience and a stroke of luck, including four instances where the net cord favored him, propelled him forward.

Now, Medvedev, a 20-time ATP event winner, sets his sights on defending his title, a milestone yet to be achieved in his career. His next opponent in the semifinals will be France’s Ugo Humbert, who overcame Hubert Hurkacz in a hard-fought battle. Humbert, with a head-to-head advantage of 2-1 against Medvedev, anticipates an intense matchup.

Meanwhile, former finalist Andrey Rublev advances to the final four following Sebastian Korda’s retirement due to injury. Rublev, aiming for a third consecutive Dubai final, faces Kazakhstan’s Alexander Bublik, who recently broke into the top 20 rankings.

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The Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, organized by Dubai Duty Free and patronized by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, promises more exhilarating matches.