Sydney (AFP)

Novak Djokovic ended up defeating Russian Daniil Medvedev in three sets (6-1, 5-7, 6-4) Saturday in Sydney, bringing a second point to Serbia synonymous with advancement to the final of the 'ATP Cup.

Earlier, the first single was won by Dusan Lajovic (34th) at the expense of Karen Khachanov (17th) in two innings (7-5, 7-6 (7/1)).

Serbia secured their qualification even before the double during which the Russians failed to save the honor. Nikola Cacic and Viktor Troicki have indeed won against the pair made up of Teymuraz Gabashvili and Konstantin Kravchuk 6-4, 7-6 (7/2).

The world N.2 Djokovic had to seriously fight to dismiss Medvedev, 5th world and revelation of the 2019 season during which he notably reached the final of the US Open.

"It was an exceptional match, with a lot of exhausting rallies and (exchanges). Daniil Medvedev showed why he is one of the best players in the world today", reacted the Serbian champion Djokovic, who gave up participate in the Adelaide tournament next week.

"It is difficult to give up (Medvedev) at the end of the court. In addition, he is tall and has good service. It was my most difficult match since the recovery," added the Belgradois, who had already dropped a set during the quarterfinals against the Canadian Denis Shapovalov.

The winner of 16 Grand Slam trophies had lost the first round before reversing the situation not without difficulty in front of the young wolf of 20 years, completing the game in the tie-break (4-6, 6-1, 7-6 (7 / 4)).

In the final of this first edition of the ATP Cup on Sunday, Djokovic and his compatriots will face Australia from Nick Kyrgios or Spain from world No.1 Rafael Nadal, who were opposed in the other semi-final that day.

© 2020 AFP