- Andy Murray will face former world number one Daniil Medvedev in Qatar Open final on Saturday
- Andy Murray had already overcome Lorenzo Sonego, Alexander Zverev and Alexandre Muller in deciding sets before reaching his first ATP semi-final since June 2022.
Andy Murray will face former world number one Daniil Medvedev in Qatar Open final after defeating Jiri Lehecka in a dramatic match.
Andy Murray, who won against Jiri 6-0 3-6 7-6 (8-6), was on the brink of defeat when he roared with delight into his fifth final in Doha. The crowd rose to their feet as the 35-year-old Briton reached his first final overall since June 2022.
Andy Murray. Photo/ Good Word News.
Meanwhile, Daniil Medvedev reached the final after beating second seed Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-4 7-6 (9-7) later on Friday. The 2021 US Open champion secured victory over Felix in straight sets for the second week in a row, having defeated him in Rotterdam a few days ago.
Andy Murray’s Dramatic Comeback
Andy Murray had already overcome Lorenzo Sonego, Alexander Zverev and Alexandre Muller in deciding sets before reaching his first ATP semi-final since June 2022.
Murray stormed out of the blocks to win the first set in a fashionable manner, 6-0, in just 33 minutes. He dropped just six points to his serve hence putting himself in a strong position. However, Jiri Lehecka was not letting him win easily as responded in emphatic fashion.
The talented Czech youngster raced to a 4-1 lead, saving two break points and afterwards serving out the set to force a decider. He won the second set 6-3.
In the deciding set, Andy Murray cut a frustrated figure, shouting at himself and his support box while 2-1 down. Jiri raced to a 40-0 lead before a netted backhand, Murray’s passing winner and a thumping forcehand forced deuce. The set became level after a wide shot from Lehecka.
Andy Murray, who had the momentum, calmly held serve before a composed tie-break performance earned him a spot in the Qatar Open final.
Speaking after his win, Murray said that his match against Jiri is one of the most amazing turnarounds he has had.
“That was one of the most amazing turnarounds I’ve had in my career. He obviously had the three match points at 5-4, but also when I was serving at 5-3. And I just don’t know [how]. I knew it was probably his first time serving for a final, so I had to make sure I tried to keep the pressure on at the end, because I know how difficult it is to serve matches like that out. But I have no idea how I managed to turn that one around to be honest.” Sky Sports quotes Andy Murray.
Daniil Medvedev Happy To Face Andy Murray
Andy Murray will be looking for a win as he faces Daniil Medvedev on the Qatar Open final, which will be played on Saturday. The Russian delivered a rock-solid performance to prevail 6-4 7-6 (9-7) against Auger-Aliassime in the semi-finals.
Daniil Medvedev. Photo/ tennisnet.com.
Speaking after the win, Daniil said that he is happy to face Murray who has been unbelievable this week.
“It’s unbelievable [what Murray has done this week]. As soon as someone arrives at match point, that’s where the match starts. So I have to be at my best from the first to the last point tomorrow to try to beat him. He’s a legend. He’s playing better and better, I feel like, not only here but in general. This is amazing to see. He’s fighting. Today was just unbelievable, the way he won, so I’m really happy to face him tomorrow.” Daniil Medvedev said, as per ATP Tour.
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