The 2019 US Open final is upon us with first time finalist Daniil Medvedev facing the three-time US Open champion Rafael Nadal. Damian Kust, Steen Kirby and Jim Smith offer their predictions.
Rafael Nadal vs Daniil Medvedev
Damian: Medvedev is a counterpart of Bianca Andreescu – he just can’t lose. Well, in this match he can and probably will. The matchup against Nadal is by far the toughest out of the big 3 for him and although it probably won’t be as easy as the Rogers Cup final, there’s not much the Russian can do. Needless to say, he needs to get out there with an all or nothing mindset and go out of his skin to stay aggressive. Once he allows Nadal to take the initiative and run him around, it will be over, especially when you consider he has a serious thigh muscle problem. Giving him a set because he’s way too good not to have a chance here or there. Nadal in 4
Jim: Nadal will be the heavy favourite going into this match and rightly so. Medvedev has battled magnificently throughout the fortnight and has had a great summer, but was demolished by Nadal in their last meeting. He has also never before played a Grand Slam final. Possibly, if he gets off to a fast start in the match may he trouble Nadal, but ultimately this looks set to be a comfortable outing for the great Spaniard. Nadal in 4
Steen: Medvedev has continued his career changing Summer and his constant upward trajectory hasn’t slowed yet. The Russian has overcome concerns about fatigue and fitness, and a number of determined opponents to reach his first career Grand Slam final. Nadal will be his toughest opponent however, the experienced Spanish battler is a heavy favorite with the oddsmakers as he holds a 1-0 h2h and hasn’t dropped a set all tournament in New York. Medvedev is capable of beating Rafa but I’m not sold he can maintain a high enough level in his first slam final to win under pressure. Nadal in 5
Rafael Nadal vs Daniil Medvedev Main Photo:
