Two of the other leading chances on Nadal’s side of the draw, Russians Medvedev and Andrey Rublev, got their campaigns off to a strong start with straight sets wins. The top 10 pair are match-hardened after driving Russia to the ATP Cup title last weekend. Medvedev is riding a 15-match winning streak after claiming the ATP Finals title.
“I’m feeling confident. Winning almost everything in straight sets is important, so I’m feeling confident about myself,” said Medvedev.Medvedev won last year’s ATP Finals with wins over Novak Djokovic, Nadal and Dominic Thiem and continued his impressive form at the ATP Cup in Melbourne as Russia put in an unbeaten performance.
His stocks in Melbourne continue to rise after eliminating Canada’s Vasek Pospisil, 6-2, 6-2, 6-4 at Margaret Court Arena. But a question about possible favouritism for the Melbourne title, especially with Djokovic on the other side, was ably answered.“Yeah, I get asked this question a lot, so if people consider me as a favourite, it’s actually a good job“I’m happy that I’m part of them right now. But you know, you need to win seven matches.
“That’s 18 sets more you need to win, which is a lot. It’s like nine three-set matches, so I’ll take it step by step.” Countryman and seventh seed Rublev defeated German world No.102 Yannick Hanfmann, 6-3, 6-3, 6-4, off the court on John Cain Arena in one hour and 42 minutes.
scottspits SMHsport Yawn.