medvedev had all the chances in the world in the 2nd set to go 1-1. Should have been Alcaraz vs Djokovic in the finals. Congrats to Djokovic still winning at this stage of his career
Both players play a style that limits risks and exploits their opponent’s weaknesses. Djoko was playing fine, Medvedev just forces him to play more aggressive than he would against any other player. I’d argue Medvedev is his worst matchup on a fast surface.
The second set was pivotal. After Novak took that set, Medvedev was deflated. Novak probably should have lost that set. Medvedev started to win most of the extended baseline rallies. Novak was running on fumes, but he was smart and started relying on serve and volley. Meddy forced him to play way more aggressively than he usually does. Djokovic was physically depleted but still found a way to win that set. His heart and fighting spirit won that set.
Medvedev was also gassed after his semi. Novak was fortunate with the draw. But after his tough 2021 draw, he deserved to have an easy one for once.