Resurgent Daniil Medvedev Wins First Title in Over Two Years
Nineteen of the Russian's twenty-one championships have been achieved on hard surfaces
A resurgent Medvedev won his initial trophy for over two years with success over opponent Moutet in the Almaty Open title decider.
The athlete, a former number one, has endured a difficult year, winning just one win at the big events and experiencing a meltdown at the US Open.
The player's inconsistency on the professional circuit - and difficulties with his serve in specific - caused him dropping out of the world's top 10 and eventually splitting with long-term coach Cervara.
Now training with his coach and his other coach, he has steadily advanced in the last few weeks - peaking in a closely contested three-set triumph over opponent Moutet.
It is Medvedev's initial title since the 2023 Rome Masters and maiden on a hard court from spring of the previous year.
The win also indicates the Russian has won 21 victories at 21 different events.
"This marks the first occasion I am participating in a event with my two daughters together, so to secure a title is especially meaningful," commented tennis professional Medvedev.
"This championship is in honour of my child my daughter, because the maiden victory I achieved when my first daughter my daughter was born was for her."
The tennis star, the past champion, had lost his last six finals, featuring in that event earlier this year.
Medvedev's retrieving play style and frequent outbursts on the playing surface had prompted commentators to question if his ability to play at the highest level was finished.
However the 29-year-old has altered his approach in the last few weeks, attempting to approach the net and compete assertively, reinforced by an improved service.
He recovered from a disadvantage in the opening set against the tricky opponent, securing 4 of the last five points to gain the advantage.
Both players swapped service breaks in the second set before the Frenchman, attempting for his initial ATP Tour victory, took control to create a final set.
Moutet rescued four initial break points in a close third set before the Russian secured a break to 15 to serve for the match.
Fittingly, Medvedev earned victory with a rally at the front of the court, with the Frenchman unable to manage a volley after over two and a half hours.
