In an epic battle that stretched just shy of three hours, Daniil Medvedev overcame home favorite Alexander Zverev in a nail-biting 7-6(3), 6-7(1), 6-4 semifinal at the 2025 Halle Open, securing his first final appearance in over a year. The match marked the 20th chapter in one of tennis’ most intense modern rivalries—and their first-ever clash on grass.
đźź© Medvedev Holds His Nerve on Grass
Medvedev looked poised for a straight-set win after clinching the first-set tiebreak and going up a break in the second. But Zverev fought back valiantly, saving three match points and taking the second set in a dominant tiebreak. The Russian, however, dug deep in the decider—breaking early, surviving four break points in a critical hold at 3-1, and maintaining composure to seal the match in two hours and 59 minutes.
“I could have done better when I had the break in the second set,” Medvedev admitted. “But I’m happy I stayed composed in the third to save those break points.”
This win marks Medvedev’s first victory over a Top 3 opponent since Wimbledon 2024, and it propels him into his 39th career ATP final. He now leads Zverev 13-7 in their head-to-head, including 12-2 since 2020.
🔥 Final Test: Medvedev vs Bublik
Standing in Medvedev’s way is Alexander Bublik, the unpredictable Kazakh who rallied past Karen Khachanov 4-6, 7-6(5), 6-4 in the other semifinal. Bublik, who won this ATP 500 event in 2023, fired 18 aces and held strong under pressure, saving key break points in both the second and third sets.
“This was the biggest title of my career,” Bublik said, “and now I have a shot at a second one.”
While Medvedev leads their head-to-head 6-0, this will be their first meeting on grass, a surface where Bublik thrives. With both players seeking redemption—Medvedev from a 15-month final drought and Bublik aiming for his second Halle crown—the 2025 final is set to be a blockbuster.
🔄 Medvedev Back in the Top 10
Regardless of the outcome, Medvedev’s Halle run guarantees him a return to the ATP Top 10 on Monday—further proof that the former World No. 1 is regaining his championship form on all surfaces.
Stay tuned for the Halle final showdown—a battle of two Alexanders, with history, redemption, and grass-court glory on the line.
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