Daniil Medvedev was pushed to the brink but ultimately demonstrated why experience and mental resilience remain decisive at Grand Slam level, surviving a dramatic five-set battle against Hungary’s Fabian Marozsan at the Australian Open.
Despite entering the match as a heavy favorite, Medvedev was forced into a deep test after a blistering start from his younger opponent threatened to produce one of the tournament’s early surprises.
Marozsan strikes first with fearless aggression
Marozsan began the match with remarkable intensity, refusing to be overawed by Medvedev’s status or recent form. The Hungarian claimed the opening set in a tight tie-break before capitalizing on momentum in the second, edging a series of break exchanges to take a two-set lead.
When Marozsan broke serve early in the third set, the upset suddenly appeared within reach. His aggressive shot-making and willingness to step inside the baseline kept Medvedev under constant pressure.
Medvedev shifts gears at the critical moment
Facing elimination, Medvedev responded immediately, breaking back and gradually raising the tempo of the match. A hard-fought 7–5 third set proved to be the turning point, allowing the former world No. 1 to regain control and confidence.
From there, the momentum swung decisively. Medvedev dominated the fourth set 6–0, exposing fatigue and hesitation in Marozsan’s game as the physical and mental demands of the contest intensified.
Experience decides the fifth set
The decisive set followed a familiar pattern. Medvedev struck first with a crucial break, briefly saw Marozsan respond, and then broke again to establish a commanding 5–3 lead. Serving with authority and composure, Medvedev closed out the match to secure a hard-earned victory.
The win extends Medvedev’s unbeaten run in 2026 to seven matches, following his title triumph in Brisbane and early success in Melbourne. More importantly, it reinforced his ability to withstand pressure and recover from adversity — a trait that continues to define champions at the highest level.
This match unfolded during a demanding Australian Open Day 6, as the tournament moved closer to its decisive stages in Melbourne.
By si.robi – Medvedev MCM23 (4), CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=132685289
By si.robi – Maroszan WMQ23, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=134832124