Daniil Medvedev’s struggles at the Paris Masters continued as the World No. 5 suffered yet another early exit, marking his fourth consecutive defeat at the tournament. Medvedev, who previously triumphed at the Paris Masters in 2020 and reached the final in 2021, has since encountered a series of setbacks in the French capital. After narrowly losing to Alex de Minaur and Grigor Dimitrov in the past two editions, the Russian fell victim this year to an inspired Alexei Popyrin, who secured a thrilling 6-4, 2-6, 7-6 victory over Medvedev in a two-and-a-half-hour contest. Popyrin’s win marked his 11th career victory against a top-10 player and his sixth of the season, underscoring his remarkable improvement in 2024.
The final set was a roller-coaster of momentum shifts, with Popyrin initially leading 4-1 before Medvedev clawed his way back into contention. The Russian even had a chance to break and potentially close out the match, earning four break points in the ninth game, but Popyrin held his nerve, saving all four. The match culminated in a nail-biting tiebreak, where Popyrin secured three mini-breaks to edge out the former champion, claiming one of the biggest wins of his career and sending Medvedev packing.
### Key Stats in Popyrin’s Win Over Medvedev
Although Medvedev managed to score three points more than Popyrin throughout the match, he failed to capitalize on the most critical moments. Interestingly, Medvedev hit a personal high of 14 double faults—a factor that significantly impacted his ability to maintain control. Despite these setbacks, the Russian maintained slightly better statistics on both his first and second serves, winning more points in those areas than his opponent. Medvedev managed to defend seven of the ten break points he faced and converted four of his own out of 13 opportunities. Still, even with these stats, he couldn’t avoid defeat, underscoring how Popyrin’s resilience paid off when it mattered.
Popyrin’s aggressive approach led to 31 winners and 50 unforced errors, showing his determination to dictate play even when it resulted in a high error count. Medvedev, typically known for his consistency, played a more controlled game, recording 28 winners and 36 errors. Medvedev’s effectiveness from the baseline was notable, often gaining the upper hand in longer rallies. However, Popyrin’s net play made a difference, with the Australian claiming 31 points at the net compared to Medvedev’s nine, proving decisive in this hard-fought match.
### Popyrin’s Resilience Shines in Set One
The match opened with Medvedev making a strong start, breaking Popyrin in the third game after targeting his backhand. Medvedev quickly consolidated his lead with a solid hold in the fourth game, pushing ahead and looking in control. But Popyrin wasn’t ready to back down. He held serve at love in the fifth game, displaying confidence that signaled he was ready to fight. In the sixth game, Popyrin launched an impressive offensive on Medvedev’s serve, generating three break points with a well-timed smash winner. Medvedev struggled under the pressure, committing back-to-back double faults that allowed Popyrin to level the score.
From there, the Australian capitalized on his momentum, holding at love in the seventh game and taking the lead. Medvedev faced continued pressure in the eighth game, defending four break points to keep himself in the set. Serving to stay in the set at 4-5, Medvedev saved two set points but ultimately succumbed after committing another double fault. Popyrin closed out the first set 6-4 in 45 minutes, securing an early advantage that set the tone for the rest of the match.
### Medvedev Responds Strongly in Set Two
Facing elimination, Medvedev raised his level in the second set. The 2020 champion appeared more focused and effective, winning his opening service games and leveling the score at 2-2 with a hold at love. Popyrin’s game began to falter, and he found himself playing against three break points in the fifth game. Medvedev took full advantage, breaking his opponent and consolidating the lead with another comfortable service game. By this stage, Medvedev looked in command, even securing a second break in the seventh game after another strong passing shot at the net. Medvedev served out the set 6-2, pushing the match into a deciding third set after an hour and 22 minutes.
### A Thrilling Decider with Popyrin Prevailing in the Tiebreak
The final set saw both players elevate their intensity. Popyrin clinched the opening game after a series of tense exchanges and broke Medvedev in the fourth game, taking advantage of yet another double fault from the Russian. Holding his own serve in the following game, Popyrin raced to a 4-1 lead, putting himself within striking distance of a memorable victory. However, Medvedev showcased his fighting spirit, breaking back in the seventh game as Popyrin sent a forehand wide.
The ninth game proved to be one of the most critical moments of the match. Medvedev created four break points that could have swung the momentum entirely in his favor, but Popyrin held steady, saving each one and keeping his nose in front. The set progressed to a tiebreak after both players comfortably held serve. In the tiebreak, Popyrin took an early lead with a forehand winner and then won several quick points. Medvedev managed to keep the tiebreak close, but a crucial double fault at 4-5 handed Popyrin two match points. The Australian seized the opportunity, closing out the match with a well-executed volley at the net, marking one of the most significant victories of his career.
### Moving Forward: What’s Next for Both Players
For Medvedev, this latest defeat at the Paris Masters highlights a need for reflection as he looks to bounce back from a season plagued by inconsistent results and injury challenges. Despite his success in 2020 and 2021, Paris has become a challenging venue for him, and he will likely look to make adjustments before his next appearance. Medvedev’s recent struggles with double faults and inconsistency in high-pressure situations suggest areas he may focus on improving in the off-season.
Meanwhile, for Popyrin, this victory serves as a testament to his growth and resilience on the ATP Tour. With 11 wins against top-10 players under his belt, including six this season alone, the Australian is establishing himself as a dangerous competitor against the world’s best. His aggressive style and improved net play make him a formidable opponent, and he will look to build on this victory as he continues his ascent in the rankings.