(Tennis news) third-best in the world Attila Balazs of Hungary was defeated easily by Medvedev in his campaign debut. The 2021 champion entered Flushing Meadows with only three victories in the North American hardcourt swing, so he was ready to play from the start.

To win the first game, the 27-year-old surrendered just one. In the second set, where the Russian assumed command of the match, the score was exactly the same. As Medvedev achieved his 50th victory of the year, the dominance continued in the third, with Balazs failing to win a match.

At Flushing Meadows, he is currently 24-5, having won the championship in 2017 and advanced to the 2019 championship match. Medvedev meant business once more in New York after taking home five victories this season, including a Masters 1000 victory.

The first round matchup between Max Purcell, a fellow countryman, and the 69th-ranked O’Connell was more difficult. Prior to Purcell cutting down the deficit, the 29-year-old took the first set in four sets and the second 6-3.

O’Connell improved to 16-17 for the season, though, by regaining control of the match in a close fourth set that went to a tiebreak.

The Australian is at 2-2 at Flushing Meadows, where his only victory came three years ago, after losing in qualifying at the Canadian Open and Cincinnati.

Head-to-Head

Both of Medvedev’s encounters with O’Connell have been victories, both on hard courts. The Russian prevailed in three sets in their most recent meeting, which occurred in the 2023 Doha quarterfinals.

Predictions 

Both Medvedev and O’Connell like dominating opponents from the back of the court, and they play games with comparable tactics, including as strong serves, strong hitting from either wing, and fluid mobility.

The Russian, however, prevails because of his greater expertise, dependability, and pedigree especially at the Slams, where he has a 65-24 record and one championship as well as his greater experience, consistency, and pedigree.

In contrast, O’Connell has never advanced past the third round and has just a 7-12 record in the Majors. Additionally, Medvedev is coming off a strong victory in the first round, one that took place in one hour and 16 minutes and featured 13 unforced errors and no break points surrendered. O’Connell’s number has been on the Russian, who ought to prevail once more.

Daniil Medvedev to win 3 sets.

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