In a gritty display at the Australian Open, Daniil Medvedev overcame early resistance from Jesper de Jong to secure his spot in the next round. The Russian, who recently claimed the Brisbane title, prevailed 7-5, 6-2, 7-6(2) after nearly three hours on Margaret Court Arena.
Medvedev’s 2026 season remains unblemished at 6-0, bolstered by converting seven break points from 13 chances. His return game was lethal, though the match tested his resolve: he lost breaks in the opener and couldn’t seal the decider on serve. Clutch play in the tiebreak turned the tide.
De Jong, world No. 73, put up a fight in sluggish conditions that broke serves frequently. But Medvedev’s poise in key moments, honed from past high-stakes battles, proved decisive.
Reflecting on a rollercoaster 2025 with only one major trophy, Medvedev rebuilt form via an end-of-year Almaty conquest. This result positions him firmly as a contender. ‘Straight sets after last year’s first-round flops feels great,’ he noted afterward.
The second round pits him against Quentin Halys of France, victor over Alejandro Tabilo. Medvedev’s form suggests he’s gearing up for glory Down Under.