Musetti Advances to ATP Masters 1000 Quarter-Final for Fifth Time

ROME: In a compelling display of skill, Lorenzo Musetti defeated Daniil Medvedev with a score of 7-5, 6-4, securing his place in the Italian Open quarter-final here at the Foro Italico on Tuesday.

Musetti asserted control early in the first set and maintained his advantage, leaving Medvedev struggling to respond. His consistency in baseline rallies was evident, committing only 15 unforced errors compared to Medvedev’s 26.

At 4:38 p.m. local time, the Foro Italico experienced significant rainfall. Despite the downpour that sent spectators scurrying for shelter, Musetti and Medvedev continued their match.

Musetti sealed the match point with a delicate drop shot that barely cleared the damp clay surface.

The 23-year-old demonstrated composure throughout the match, ensuring that his debut week in the world’s top 10 rankings would be marked by another strong performance in a major tournament, following his final appearance in Monte Carlo and semi-final showing in Madrid.

However, the match saw further drama when the chair umpire paused play just as Musetti was approaching victory.

Upon resumption, Musetti picked up where he left off at 7-5, 5-4, 40-30, needing just one more point to reach his fifth ATP Masters 1000 quarter-final and his third of the season.

The Italian clinched the crucial point by winning a 13-stroke rally, securing his first-ever victory against the Russian player.

The Italian player boasts an impressive record of 21 wins in his last 25 matches on clay and currently holds a career-high ranking of No. 9 in the ATP Rankings this week.

Additionally, Hubert Hurkacz’s match against Miami champion Jakub Mensik was also suspended due to the inclement weather, with Hurkacz leading 7-6(5), 4-6, 3-2.