Daniil Medvedev apologised to Andrey Rublev moments after winning the Hangzhou Open title on Tuesday. The two Russian-born players, long-time friends, met in the final of the ATP 250 event near Shanghai as the top two seeds.
Medvedev won the opening set 7-5 and kept his composure to secure his 24th tour-level title in straight sets.
Warm exchanges at the trophy ceremony
After the match, the pair shared jokes and warm embraces during the ceremony. In his runner-up speech, Rublev said: “I don’t know what to say, because after so many years we’ve said so many things to each other.
“So I don’t know what else to say. I just want to congratulate you, say hi to you and your family. I hope we will have many more memories over the years and in the future. Congrats again for the title and good luck for the rest of the season.”
Medvedev replied: “There is always a tiny bit more on the line. I think I handled it well…
“I played good in the important moments and I’m really happy with my level.”
Title record and future plans
He added: “I think the same. I’m really happy to see you in the final, sorry that I served good today, but hopefully we can finish the season strong.”
Of his 24 titles, 23 have come in different locations. His only repeat win came at the ATP 500 in Dubai, where he triumphed in 2023 and 2026.
Looking ahead to facing Rublev again, Medvedev said: “We did a final of ATP 500, ATP 250, now time for one Masters 1000. And after in five years, a Slam!”
Asian swing continues
With the season drawing to a close, attention remains on the Asian swing. ATP 500 tournaments in Tokyo and Beijing are on the horizon, with a Masters 1000 in Shanghai before the end of October.
