Inspired Alexander Bublik Ends Medvedev Streak to Win Second Halle Open Title
In an electrifying final at the Terra Wortmann Open in Halle, Germany, Alexander Bublik broke a personal curse and a losing streak against Daniil Medvedev to lift the trophy for the second consecutive year. With a 6-3, 7-6(4) victory, the 27-year-old Kazakhstani claimed his first-ever win over Medvedev in seven attempts, delivering a fearless performance filled with aggressive shot-making, gutsy drop shots, and big-time serving.
“Daniil, I’ve never even won a set against you. It’s a privilege to finally beat you,” said a visibly emotional Bublik during the trophy ceremony.
The final was a statement of mental and physical grit. Bublik stormed through the first set with a stunning 12-point streak and dug deep to overcome five double faults in the second. Medvedev, the 2024 Indian Wells finalist, seemed poised to push it to a decider, but uncharacteristic backhand errors in the tie-break opened the door for Bublik to slam it shut in 81 minutes.
The win continues a remarkable turnaround for Bublik, who had contemplated quitting the sport after Wimbledon 2023. He credited his coach for keeping him going:
“I was not enjoying it anymore. I told my coach we’d decide after Wimbledon if I should take a break. Now here I am—Roland Garros quarterfinalist and Halle champion. No words.”
After defeating World No. 1 Jannik Sinner in the second round and earning his fifth ATP Tour title, Bublik now joins legends like Roger Federer, Yevgeny Kafelnikov, and Tommy Haas as one of only four players to win the Halle title more than once.
Despite the loss, Medvedev’s performance saw him climb four spots to No. 14 in the PIF ATP Live Race to Turin.
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