Daniil Medvedev's search for a first ATP title since May 2023 will continue after falling short in the Shanghai Masters semi-final. The former champion entered the closing stages of the event in fine form.
The Russian made changes in his coaching staff and showed renewed consistency while posting back-to-back deep runs in Beijing and Shanghai. However, he missed an opportunity to achieve much more!
With Arthur Rinderknech and Valentin Vacherot standing between him and a Masters 1000 crown. Medvedev had a nice opportunity to finally lift a trophy after missing it at the previous 50 tournaments!
However, he experienced a 4-6, 6-2, 6-4 loss to Rinderknech in two and a half hours, allowing the Frenchman to arrange a stunning Masters 1000 final against his cousin.
Arthur provided aggressive shot-making and relentless energy, taking the pivotal points and sending the 2019 champion packing. Despite another strong campaign, Daniil left Shanghai with mixed feelings.
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He acknowledged the progress made under his new team but could not hide his frustration at letting a golden opportunity slip away, especially against opponents with far less experience on the notable stage.
The Russian's performance across both Chinese events has been encouraging. It marked improved focus and more efficient shotmaking after a challenging stretch earlier in the season.
However, the disappointment of missing out on a final appearance lingered for the former world no. 1. Fatigue also played a role after three demanding weeks on the Asian swing.
It left Medvedev drained rather than emotional about the defeat. With three weeks of action left in the ATP Race to Turin, Daniil is not in a good position for qualifying for the ATP Finals.
Things could have been much better with the Shanghai Masters title, but the Russian keeps battling. He remains on next week's ATP 250 Almaty entry list, although it would not be surprising to see him withdraw and prepare for Vienna and Paris.
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"So far, everything is positive. I played well in Beijing and Shanghai, beating some good opponents. Of course, I'm disappointed with the semi-final loss because I could have played much better.
Especially because I have more experience than Arthur or Valentin in these kinds of matches. However, Arthur played well today, fighting hard from start to finish and even in the first set, which I won.
It happens, and I hope I can do better next time. To be completely honest, I'm so tired at the moment that I'm neither sad nor happy," Daniil Medvedev said.
