The Australian Open 2026 delivered pure drama as Daniil Medvedev clawed back from the brink to beat Fabian Marozsan 6-7(5), 4-6, 7-5, 6-0, 6-3, securing his spot in the fourth round. Down two sets and a break in the third, the Russian’s mental fortitude shone through in a contest lasting nearly four hours.
Marozsan started strong, using his rally endurance to outmaneuver Medvedev, who stood unusually deep. The world No. 47’s control in extended points frustrated the former champion early on. But Medvedev’s patience paid off; a pivotal break at 5-5 in set three sparked a nine-game tear that flipped the script entirely.
This marks Medvedev’s fifth Grand Slam win from two sets down, per ATP stats, and his 18th fourth-round entry in majors since 2017. Only the elite quartet of Djokovic, Zverev, Nadal, and Sinner surpass his sustained excellence at this stage.
‘I felt like he had me cornered, but I ramped up the intensity,’ Medvedev said afterward. Riding a hot streak of eight victories to open the year – capped by Brisbane glory – the 11th seed looks primed. Next up: American Learner Tien, fresh off beating Nuno Borges. Medvedev’s pedigree suggests dominance, but tennis’s unpredictability keeps fans hooked.