Italian Open: Daniil Medvedev wins 1st ever clay title ahead of French Open

Just a week before the marquee French Open, Daniil Medvedev defeated Denmark’s Holger Rune in straight sets to clinch his first-ever clay title at the Italian Open.

The 27-year-old Russian, who has had a considerably good run this season on clay, defeated Rune 7-5, 7-5 in a rain-delayed final in Rome.

Medvedev’s relationship with the clay court has always been rocky. The world no. 3 has previously also stated that he hated the surface.

After his win, Daniil said, ‘This one is special because I didn't think it was going to happen.’

This is the Russian’s 5th title of the 2023 season, making him one of the top contenders for the upcoming Roland Garros that commences on May 28.

The win at the Masters 1000 event means he will move up to second in the world rankings ahead of Roland Garros, splitting Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic, and can only meet either of the two in the final.

Also Watch: Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina wins Italian Open