S Poddar
Daniil Medvedev’s title defense in Dubai was cut short after he was defeated by Tallon Griekspoor in an intense encounter. The Russian defending champion had four match points within his reach but was unable to convert them, thereby letting his opponent mount an incredible comeback.
The 47th-ranked Dutchman staged a remarkable 2-6, 7-6(7), 7-5 win on Medvedev’s meltdown. Frustration got the better of the world number six, who was at loggerheads with chair umpire Adel Nour. The argument between the two intensified after Medvedev complained that the official was showing “double standards” towards Russian players. But Nour categorically rubbished the allegations, saying he treats all players equally.
As the pressure grew, Griekspoor kept his cool in the deciding set and was able to claim victory on his fourth match point. In contrast, Medvedev’s anger was clear as he refused to shake hands with the umpire at the conclusion of the match.
Griekspoor’s journey to the semi-finals has been nothing short of spectacular. He had already overcome a nervy first-round match against Roman Safiullin, saving three match points before moving through. He then defeated defending champion Ugo Humbert, laying the foundation for his encounter with Medvedev. He next plays Stefanos Tsitsipas to qualify for the final.
Tsitsipas, the fourth seed, fought his way past Italy’s Matteo Berrettini in an arduous battle. The Greek star won 7-6(5), 1-6, 6-4, his first semi-final since last July. Griekspoor recognized the size of his win over Medvedev, calling the Russian an “unbelievable player and competitor.” He conceded that fortune favored him in his win, especially in the deciding second-set tie-break, but in the end, his grit brought him across the line.
Elsewhere in the competition, Felix Auger-Aliassime extended his tour-leading form by collecting his Tour-high 15th victory of the season. The Canadian beat previous US Open champion Marin Cilic 6-4, 3-6, 6-2 to reach the semi-finals. Auger-Aliassime, the world’s 21st-ranked player, has been in mesmerizing form this year and has already won titles in Adelaide and Montpellier.
His next test is provided by French qualifier Quentin Halys, who produced a fighting comeback to beat Italian lucky loser Luca Nardi. Halys, who was a set and a break down, demonstrated great spirit to come back and win 2-6, 6-3, 7-6(5). His giant-killing trail has been the biggest talking point of the tournament so far, having beaten ninth-ranked former winner Andrey Rublev in the first round.
With the semi-finals set, the tournament promises even more thrilling matchups. Griekspoor aims to continue his dream run against Tsitsipas, while Auger-Aliassime looks to extend his impressive season against the resilient Halys. As Dubai’s best battle for glory, the action on the court is far from over.
