US Open 2019: Nadal to face Medvedev in final
What's the story
Rafael Nadal's quest for a fourth US Open Slam title was on track after he overcame Matteo Berrettini in the semi-final. The Spaniard sealed the encounter 7-6 (8-6), 6-4, 6-1. He will meet Russia's Daniil Medvedev in Sunday's final. Medvedev overcame Grigor Dimitrov 7-6 (7-5), 6-4, 6-3 in straight sets at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Here are the details.
Nadal Slams
Classy Nadal in search for a career 19th Grand Slam
33-year-old Nadal showed his class after saving two set points in the opener. From there on, it was one-way traffic against the 23-year old Berrettini. Nadal is vying for a 19th career Grand Slam honor. A win on Sunday will see him close down on Roger Federer (20 Slams). The Spaniard is the hot favorite to win the US Open at Flushing Meadows.
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I was a little bit lucky in the tie-break: Nadal
"I was a little bit lucky in the tie-break but I survived and then finally I had the break and after that, the match completely changed. I played with more calm and was more aggressive," said Nadal.
Medvedev
Medvedev has been a delight to watch
Medvedev has been in hot form this year. The Russian was touted to be a challenger for the trophy outside the big three. He has what it takes to do well. Medvedev had lost Washington and Montreal finals in recent times. He fought back to win the Cincinnati Masters. He has reached all four finals in US hard courts to show his true attributes.
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Medvedev reflects on his stunning victory
"I felt he was much closer to the first set, but I won and that changed the momentum of the match," said Medvedev. He has managed to win 20 of the last 22 matches.
Finale
A grand finale on the cards
Medvedev could put up a strong challenge against Nadal. He is the youngest male Grand Slam finalist for nine years. This is set to be his seventh final appearance of the year and a fourth successive one. Nadal will be eager to produce his best show. He has been in fine form and the experience could come to his rescue here.