We are in for two amazing men’s semifinal matches at the Australian Open this year. Our writers already shared their predictions for Novak Djokovic vs Jannik Sinner. But don’t sleep on this other blockbuster semifinal as well. Both Daniil Medvedev and Alexander Zverev are former Grand Slam finalists, with Medvedev winning the 2021 US Open. Which of these two men will reach the final? As always, we give your our thoughts on the match. Predicting this match are Jordan Reynolds, Jack Edward, Nurein Ahmed, Manuel Traquete, and Jim Smith. Who do you think will win?
Australian Open Men’s Semifinal Predictions
Daniil Medvedev vs Alexander Zverev
Jordan:
It is only early in the season, but Zverev’s victory against Carlos Alcaraz will surely be remembered as one of the most stunning of the season. Alcaraz said before the match he felt he had an advantage after the long matches Zverev had played, but the German proved those claims wrong. Can he he go a step further against Medvedev? The two-time runner-up in Melbourne had a five-set match himself in the last round. Yet, I am still backing him. Zverev thrived on being consistent against Alcaraz, but Medvedev will be happy to trade from the baseline and be patient. It is a different challenge for Zverev, and I think it could be one too many.
Prediction: Medvedev in 4
Jack:
It’s always been a close match-up but there is normally one winner. Since 2019, Medvedev has won 11 of their 14 meetings. If Medvedev pulls ahead, he carries that momentum into an unbreakable performance from the baseline coupled with a mammoth performance on serve. If he falls behind, he knows he can rely rely on the weaponry of Zverev breaking down. The Russian is in the world #6’s head and that’ll only be exacerbated over five sets.
Prediction: Medvedev in 4
Nurein:
Daniil Medvedev was pushed to his limits in Wednesday’s five-set quarterfinal win over Hubert Hurakcz. It is far from an ideal situation for the World No. 3, but the one saving grace is that Alexander Zverev has accumulated as much mileage earlier in the tournament. So, fatigue is unlikely to be a hindrance for Medvedev who is a supremely durable athlete. Anytime these two players lock horns, it is a battle, full of cat and mouse rallies with each one trying to outsmart the other. Zverev’s confidence is through the roof right now. And it is not just because he has won the most matches in 2024, but because he is buoyed from beating one of the tournament favorites to get here.
Prediction: Zverev in 5
Manuel:
This will be the 19th time Medvedev and Zverev face each other, but it is actually a first time matchup at Grand Slam level. Both players survived two very tough five-set matches this event and will be very motivated, especially Zverev after the way he beat Carlos Alcaraz in the quarterfinals. Medvedev tends to have the edge in this match, winning 11 of their last 14 matches after an 0-4 start. But the stakes are higher than ever here and nerves are likely to play a big part. It’s about as close to a 50/50 match as you can possibly get, but Medvedev tends to be a bit steadier in crucial moments of big matches.
Prediction: Medvedev in 5
Jim:
This is a tough match to call. Daniil Medvedev should be the heavy favourite – he is aiming to reach his third Australian Open final and his fifth overall at the Majors. Alexander Zverev has played just one so far in his career and he achieved that feat against a depleted field in New York in 2020 and even then he made hard work of it.
He also trails in the head-to-head, with the tide in their rivalry having very much turned since 2020. Still, his performance against Carlos Alcaraz in the last eight was quite superb whilst Medvedev’s showing against Hubert Hurkacz, who he scraped past in five, left much to be desired. Ultimately, however, the Russian will pose Zverev a very different challenge, denying him the pace and consistency he thrives on.
Prediction: Medvedev in 4
Main Photo Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
