Medvedev survives early Struff wobble to reach Marseille semi-finals

Medvedev, the top seed at the indoor hard-court event, emerged a 6-3 6-2 victor in just 78 minutes to keep his quest for a first ATP Masters 1000 title since 2023 alive.

But Struff started strongly in the contest, serving to love in the opening game before piling the pressure on Medvedev soon after with some brilliant crosscourt striking.

The German, however, was unable to make his opportunities count. Struff squandered two break points in both the fourth and sixth game, with Medvedev punishing that slip.

Medvedev cruised to the opening set by winning the final four games before finding his range in the second to halt the big serving of his opponent.

A crucial break of Struff's serve in the fourth game proved decisive, with Medvedev sealing his progression at the fourth time of asking after a spirited fightback from his opponent.

"I didn't start the match well, he had a lot of break points," said Medvedev. "I served good a couple of times. He made some mistakes. It's part of tennis.

"Then I managed to take control of the match and I feel like I was a little bit of a better player.

"But again, if the match in the beginning doesn't turn my side, we don't know what happens next. So, I’m happy to turn in my side."

Top seed, top form2021 champion @DaniilMedwed sweeps aside Struff 6-3 6-2 SF!@Open13 | #O13Provence pic.twitter.com/PehkWrU92Y

— ATP Tour (@atptour) February 14, 2025

After falling to second-round exits at the Australian Open and in Rotterdam to start his 2025 campaign, Medvedev's decision to receive a late wild card entry into the Marseille draw is paying off.

A champion in the south of France in 2021, Medvedev combined ruthless efficiency with a strong defensive showing to reach the semi-finals of the tournament, saving all five of the break points he faced while also winning 76% of his first serve points.