Medvedev Comes Back to Reach Australian Open Round of 32: Form Revives as He Targets First Australian Open Title

On January 21, three-time Australian Open finalist and Russian star Medvedev faced a tough challenge from French player Alizé in the second round of the 2026 Australian Open men’s singles. After narrowly losing the first set tiebreak 9-11, he stayed composed and rallied to win the next three sets 6-3, 6-4, 6-2, completing a comeback that lasted over three hours and marking the seventh time in his career he has reached the Australian Open last 32.

The opening set was a fierce battle, with both players reaching a tiebreak. Medvedev led 9-8 in the breaker but squandered two service points, ultimately losing the set 9-11.However, from the second set onward, the rhythm shifted firmly in the Russian’s favor. He fired 35 winners throughout the match while keeping unforced errors tightly under 20, a highly efficient offensive display signaling a clear resurgence in his form.

Serving proved to be Medvedev’s cornerstone for victory: his first-serve points won reached an impressive 78%, with second-serve points won also at 62%. This dominant serving performance greatly limited his opponent’s chances to counterattack, leaving Alizé struggling to find break opportunities.

This win holds special significance for Medvedev: it marked his 30th main draw victory at the Australian Open, making him the eighth male player in the Open Era to reach this milestone. The Australian Open has indeed been a stronghold for him, having reached the finals three times in 2021, 2022, and 2024, consistently bringing out his best performances here.

“Last year wasn’t my best,” Medvedev admitted after the match. In the 2025 season, he managed just one win in Grand Slam tournaments, enduring a tough period. Yet this new season he has started strong with seven consecutive wins (including a title in Brisbane), breaking a four-major losing streak since last year’s Australian Open and showing marked improvement in mental stability.

Observant fans noticed Medvedev frequently employed drop shots and backhand cross-court winners during the match, demonstrating enhanced tactical variety. This evolution in his game means he no longer relies solely on baseline defense but uses diverse strategies to keep opponents off balance.

Off the court, Medvedev once again showed his unique sense of humor. “This is the first time in nearly two years I’ve reached the third round of a Grand Slam, and it feels great,” he joked in the post-match interview. Amusingly, when signing autographs, he wrote “Not 5 Sets,” poking fun at his previous tendency to play long five-set matches.

Reflecting on his poor form last year with only one Grand Slam win, he candidly said, “Opponents are improving, and I had chances, but my form was definitely off.” Regarding his current condition, he expressed strong confidence: “I’d be surprised if I got knocked out in the early rounds.” This self-assurance stems from trust in his new team and clear self-awareness.

Having advanced to the last 32, Medvedev will face Hungarian player Marosan in the third round, who he has never played before and could be a potential dark horse. “Every match requires full focus,” Medvedev stated, “there are no easy opponents in a Grand Slam.”

With his form improving and game evolving, Medvedev is once again considered a strong contender for the Australian Open title this year. His past successes at Melbourne Park combined with his current hot streak have fans eagerly anticipating his bid for his first career Australian Open championship. The former world No. 1 is steadily moving toward the ultimate prize on a familiar stage.(Source: Tennis Home Author: Mei)