Daniil Medvedev faced a late-night scare at the U.S. Open but managed to overcome Australian opponent Christopher O’Connell with a final score of 6-2, 6-2, 6-7(6), 6-2. While Medvedev comfortably took the first two sets, O’Connell’s spirited performance in the third set posed a significant challenge.
The match’s atmosphere was a stark contrast to their previous encounter in 2020, played in an empty arena due to COVID-19 restrictions. This time, the Louis Armstrong Stadium was filled with energy, and the crowd’s support for O’Connell was palpable, with chants of “Aussie, Aussie, Aussie, Oi, Oi, Oi.”
Medvedev initially broke O’Connell’s serve to secure the first two sets and appeared to be cruising to victory. However, O’Connell tapped into the crowd’s enthusiasm and managed to take the third set to a tiebreak, capitalizing on a shaky moment when Medvedev double-faulted.
Drawing on his experience as the 2021 U.S. Open champion, Medvedev regrouped and broke O’Connell early in the fourth set. He maintained his lead, preventing any comeback from the Australian.
Medvedev’s resilience and ability to respond to challenges bode well for his quest in this year’s U.S. Open.
