Hamad Medjedovic, a rising Serbian talent mentored by Novak Djokovic, shocked former world number one Daniil Medvedev with a commanding 6-3, 6-2 victory to reach the final of the Marseille Open on Saturday.
The 21-year-old, ranked 96th in the world, secured his first-ever win over a top-10 opponent and will face defending champion Ugo Humbert of France in Sunday’s final.
“I think I played one of my best matches of the week,” said Medjedovic. “I am really happy. I delivered on my tactics, had a great performance, and I am really happy to be through.”
Medjedovic’s early career has been supported by Djokovic, with the 24-time Grand Slam winner covering his travel and coaching expenses.
For Medvedev, currently ranked eighth, it was another disappointing result in an underwhelming season, following early exits at the Australian Open and in Rotterdam.
Humbert booked his place in the final by defeating Belgium’s Zizou Bergs 6-4, 6-4.
“It is not easy to achieve back-to-back finals. I won last year, so it is a different pressure. I am in the final again and super proud,” said Humbert.
