Carlos Alcaraz will play Jannik Sinner in the China Open final after cruising past Daniil Medvedev in straight sets.
The Spanish world number three needed 88 minutes to seal a 7-5 6-3 win against his opponent who needed two medical timeouts for treatment on his left leg.
It is the 21-year-old’s eighth successive victory since his shock second-round defeat by Botic van de Zandschulp at the US Open.
World number one and defending champion Sinner reached the final with a 6-3 7-6 (7-3) win over Chinese wildcard Bu Yunchaokete.
The Italian, 23, is competing in Beijing after the World Anti-Doping Agency (Wada) said on Saturday that it was appealing against the decision to clear him of blame after he twice tested positive for a banned substance.
Wada said last month’s ruling by an independent tribunal to find Sinner had no fault or negligence was “not correct under the applicable rules”.
It has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (Cas) and said the player should be banned for “between one and two years”.
Sinner’s defence said he was inadvertently contaminated by the banned substance by his physiotherapist, Giacomo Naldi and when Wada’s decision was announced, he said he was “surprised” by the decision to appeal.
Carlos Alcaraz defeated Daniil Medvedev in a thrilling semifinal match to secure his place in the final against Jannik Sinner. This victory was a testament to Alcaraz’s resilience and skill, particularly after his coach confirmed that the young Spaniard had been dealing with minor physical issues leading up to the match.
Alcaraz, the reigning world No. 1, showcased his remarkable athleticism and shot-making ability throughout the contest. From the outset, he demonstrated his intent by breaking Medvedev’s serve early, setting the tone for a competitive showdown. Despite Medvedev’s reputation as a formidable opponent, known for his strategic play and powerful groundstrokes, Alcaraz managed to dictate the pace of the match. His aggressive play forced Medvedev into uncomfortable positions, ultimately disrupting the Russian’s rhythm.
The first set was closely contested, with both players exchanging powerful serves and groundstrokes. Alcaraz displayed his characteristic flair with a series of breathtaking winners that left the crowd in awe. Medvedev, however, was relentless, using his experience to claw back into the match. After a tense tiebreak, Alcaraz edged ahead, taking the first set and gaining crucial momentum.
In the second set, Medvedev came out firing, looking to level the match. His powerful serve and deep returns kept Alcaraz on the back foot. Yet, Alcaraz’s resolve shone through. Despite the physical strain, he executed key shots under pressure, showcasing his mental fortitude. A pivotal moment arrived when Alcaraz broke Medvedev’s serve at a crucial juncture, swinging the momentum back in his favor.
As the match progressed, it became clear that Alcaraz’s conditioning and determination played a vital role. He fought through fatigue, and his ability to maintain focus in high-stakes moments was remarkable. With each passing game, he increased his aggression, culminating in a final break that secured his victory.
With this win, Alcaraz sets the stage for an exciting final against Jannik Sinner, a rising star and fierce competitor in his own right. Both players have shown extraordinary talent and tenacity, making this final highly anticipated. Alcaraz, eager to defend his title and continue his ascent in the tennis world, will face a formidable challenge in Sinner, who has proven he can compete with the best. The stage is set for an electrifying showdown that promises to captivate tennis fans around the globe.
The US Open champion has admitted to having sleepless nights over the issue but his win over the Chinese world number 96 is his 15th win in a row and sets up a 10th meeting against his Spanish rival.
“It’s a very delicate moment, very difficult, very different,” said Sinner, who is seeking a seventh ATP Tour title in 2024.
“So every victory for me is a great sign.”
The pair met in the last four 12 months ago with Sinner emerging victorious but Alcaraz leads the head-to-head 5-4 after winning both meetings in 2024, most recently a five-set semi-final at the French Open in June..
“It’s going to be a tough match,” Sinner went on. “We know each other very well but every match is different. I’m happy to be in the final.”
Elsewhere, Britain’s Dan Evans beat Alex Bolt of Australia 6-2 1-6 7-5 in the final round of qualifying for the Shanghai Masters.
The world number 176 will play Thiago Seyboth Wild of Brazil in the first round on Wednesday.
Billy Harris was beaten 7-5 2-6 6-4 by Beibit Zhukayev but gained a first-round spot as a lucky loser and the world number 104 will play Italy’s Mattia Bellucci in his maiden appearance in the main draw at a Masters 1000 event.
Compatriot Jack Draper withdrew from the event on Monday because of an abdominal injury.
