Daniil Medvedev's quest for his first ATP title since May 2023 will continue after a tough semi-final loss at the Shanghai Masters to Arthur Rinderknech. The Russian had a massive chance to seek a notable title and end his drought.
He claimed the opening set against Rinderknech and missed many opportunities in the decider to end his run in the last four. Thus, he squandered a massive opportunity to add 1000 ATP points to his tally.
While he extended his negative streak to 51 ATP tournaments without an ATP title, Medvedev also plagued his chances of qualifying for the ATP Finals in Turin.
The former champion stands 15 in the ATP Race to Turin after Shanghai, over 1000 points behind Lorenzo Musetti, the last passengerfor Turin at the moment. Daniil admitted that Turin is no longer a realistic target.
The Russian explained that his energy reserves are low after a demanding season. Even the possibility of traveling to Italy as an alternate, although he remains far from that, does not appeal to him.
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The former world no. 1 wants to focus on recovery and a fresh push in Almaty, Vienna and Paris. Medvedev hopes to regain momentum during the indoor swing and wrap up his season on a positive note following two deep runs in Beijing and Shanghai.
Despite the challenges, he remains composed and grounded, determined to rediscover his best form rather than chase rankings. The Russian is the 2nd seed at the ATP 250 event in Almaty.
He will face Tristan Schoolkate or Adam Walton in the second round.
"If I had won Shanghai, of course, I would have had to think about the ATP Finals, because I would have been back in the race. However, as things now stand, its a long way off for me.
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The only problem is that I do not think I would go as a substitute, even as a first. Im tired; its been a difficult season. I will try to play well in Almaty, Vienna, Paris; whatever happens, happens," Daniil Medvedev said.
