To say that Andy Murray took the scenic route to the Qatar ExxonMobil Open final would be an understatement. If he wants to take one more step to the title, he will probably have to do it even more difficult and more improbable fashion.
Murray’s reward for a quartet of three-set victories–two in which he saved multiple match points–is a showdown with fellow former world No. 1 Daniil Medvedev in the championship match on Saturday evening. The 35-year-old Scot may not be playing on a full tank of energy, but he can’t be counted out following his exploits so far this week. Murray fought off three match points against Lorenzo Sonego in round one and five against Jiri Lehecka in the semis. Lehecka even led 40-0 on his own serve at 5-4 in the third set on Saturday.
Nonetheless, Murray battled into the Doha final for the fifth time in his career and will bid for his third title.
“It’s unbelievable [what Murray has done this week],” Medvedev praised. “As soon as someone arrives at match point, that’s where the match starts. So I have to be at my best from the first to the last point tomorrow to try to beat him.
“He’s a legend. He’s playing better and better I feel like; not only here, but in general. This is amazing to see. He’s fighting. Today was just unbelievable the way he won, so I’m really happy to face him tomorrow.”
Medvedev hasn’t exactly had an easy time of it in Doha, either. The world No. 8 went to 7-5 in the third set with Christopher O’Connell in the quarterfinals and then held off Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-4, 7-6(7) in the semis. His winning streak now stands at eight, also including last week’s Rotterdam triumph.
“Today and yesterday the matches were super close,” Medvedev admitted. “Confidence matters, because [Auger-Aliassime] had [three] set points. I managed to just stay in there and it was enough to win, but a very high-level match. (It took) two hours for two sets.”
Murray will have to get off to a fast start if he wants to have a chance, because Medvedev is the last person anyone wants to face in a three-hour baseline grind–especially on the heels of four three-set matches. The three-time major champion can be competitive, but asking him to complete this incredible run by pulling off a big upset is probably too much to ask.
Look for Medvedev to wear Murray down in the end and improve to 3-0 lifetime in the head-to-head series.
Pick: Medvedev in 3
Medvedev in two easy sets
“As soon as someone arrives at match point, that’s where the match starts.”
Medwed’s quick response in his post-match interview made me laugh and revealed how closely he watches his opponent’s matches.
I love both of the players, and they are both winners. We are lucky to watch these two guys.
https://ibb.co/x8QJMYZ
Its an interesting matchup but Ill be rooting for Andy ‘once the match starts’ and before and after.
Congrats on winning the WTA Dubai bracket, Al.
There is a new player this week in Jalep_Wildguess and Moo’s bracket named Cami. Welcome in, Cami. Great to have your company.
Great win for Krejcikova – Congrats! It’s good to see Krejcikova climbing the ranks back to where she should be.
Congrats to Medvedev for grabbing the title in Doha and returning to the ATP top ten.
Keep up the hard work, Andy Murray. It’s exciting to see you playing so well!
You called it! Barbora’s ROS was sensational, she dominated Iga too with her explosive forehand. Not a gr8 match but so pleased for B
Yes, Danii a step too far for Andy but he’s had a terrific week, whatever.
Go! Go! Go! Amazing Andy!
Margot,
Have you seen Andy’s draw for Dubai? He has to take on Hubi Hurkacz in the first round. I am going with Andy there, and Andy will meet Novak. The question is, do I pick Andy over Novak? Probably not yet, but it’s a big test for both.
I am still feeling happy about the progress Andy is making!
Rumours Andy’s injured. Dunno if true.
I had Alcaraz winning but with a thigh injury now got him going out early.So watch him win!
You won all the others !
February madness nearly over, and I wouldnt be surprised if Norrie/Alcaraz went out early next week.
Good chanec for Andy to beat Hurkacz
That is probably right about Norrie/Alcaraz, but I kept them where the first time I picked Acapulco, and I was too lazy to do a makeover.
Not quite.
Cami’s new name is in brackets; she knows their way around, came to the top in Rio, and won!
She will do it again, I predict 😀
I’ve liked Meddi ever since he took on the audience at the USOpen. Much the same as Andy when he used play a French man at RG.
A step too far for Andy, especially with no rest day. Meddi in 2.
Upset special Murray over Medvedev
Daniil in 3. Murray somehow makes it interesting.
The streak continues
https://ibb.co/VH2t0q9
I went all-in on Hurkacz.
https://ibb.co/6mgVSjq