Medvedev topples Nishikori in Barcelona semi

BARCELONA: Japan’s Kei Nishikori missed his chance to reach another final at the Barcelona Open as he lost 6-4, 3-6, 7-5 Saturday to Daniil Medvedev.

Fourth seed Nishikori had reached the final of the Catalan clay-court event three times, winning in 2014 and 2015 but losing the 2016 final to Rafael Nadal.

“He played very aggressive and was better today on the clay,” Nishikori said.

“It was a close match, he played well at the right moments.”

Asia’s top player won’t get the chance for revenge this year.

The players exchanged breaks in the third set before the seventh-seeded Medvedev seized the first match point to break in the 12th game and win the baseline battle.

Medvedev took the first set but smashed a racket as Nishikori levelled by winning the second. Nishikori broke in the first game in the third set, but the Russian soon hit back for 2-2.

Nishikori saved three break points in the sixth game but Medvedev turned the momentum in an instant in the 12th game.

He sent a winning forehand down the line for a match point and immediately converted for victory when Nishikori hit the net with a return.

Nishikori came into the match after beating Medvedev in January’s Brisbane final, a success which ended a 51-tournament title drought for the Japanese ace.

In spite of defeat, Nishikori remained pleased with his progress on clay ahead of upcoming Masters events in Madrid and Rome.

“I’m happy with how I’m playing. Even today, I played well,” he said.

“I’ve got my confidence back again on clay. It was important for me to do well this week.

“I want to be ready for the next big events.”

Medvedev, who shook some salt into his mouth during a third-set changeover just to spark his tiring muscles - apparently not for cramping - said his game remained in top gear despite falling behind a break to Nishikori.

“I felt ahead of him mentally in the final set,” said Medvedev. “This match shows I’m able to play well on clay against the top 10 guys. I’m feeling strong physically and mentally,” he added.