Carlos Alcaraz advanced to his first Vienna Open final after defeating Daniil Medvedev 6-4 7-6 (7-2) on Saturday. He will compete for the championship against Alex de Minaur, who secured an upset victory over Alexander Zverev.
Alcaraz Grabs Revenge Against Medvedev
The second seed claimed the opening set when Medvedev double-faulted on set point. The Russian competitor mounted a strong challenge in the second set, successfully forcing a tie-break.
With both competitors locked in a tight battle without a clear advantage, Alcaraz delivered a series of forceful groundstrokes during the tie-break to wrap up the win in 96 minutes. The triumph provided Alcaraz with a degree of redemption after Medvedev inflicted his first loss of the season during the Indian Wells semi-finals in March, while also halting the Russian player’s seven-match winning streak.
The result marked the 37th tour-level final of Alcaraz’s career and his fifth of the season, alongside extending his winning run at ATP 500 tournaments to 25 matches. Both Alcaraz and Medvedev have already secured their places for the upcoming ATP Finals next month.
De Minaur Upsets Zverev to Reach Final
De Minaur achieved one of the most significant wins of his career by overcoming world No 1 elect Zverev 6-4, 1-6, 7-6 (7-4) to book his first appearance in the Vienna final. The Australian lifted his indoor record for the year to 10-0, sustained his chances of qualifying for the ATP Finals, and reached the 23rd tour-level final of his career.
The victory brought an end to Zverev’s winning streak and prevented the German from taking the final position just days after confirmation that he would ascend to the top of the world rankings on Monday.
Alcaraz and De Minaur will square off in Sunday’s championship match, which is broadcast live on Sky Sports Tennis at 1pm.
