The final is set at the ATP Brisbane International, and it will pit the former world #1 and top seed Daniil Medvedev against a surging Brandon Nakashima, who hasn’t dropped a set all week. The Russian player is looking to win his 22nd title at a 22nd different event, while Nakashima is eyeing his first tour-level title since 2022. As always, we at LWOT will offer the prediction for this match, but who will win?
ATP Brisbane Final Prediction
Daniil Medvedev vs Brandon Nakashima
Head-to-head: Medvedev 2-0 Nakashima
Daniil Medvedev showed some resurgence towards the end of last season and has looked close to his old self so far this week. These are positive signs for him and make him a dangerous prospect at the Australian Open. His second serve is still shaky, but his first serve has held up under pressure, and he is hitting his forehand with intent. But most importantly, his mentality so far has been great, which can be an issue with him.
Brandon Nakashima has played like a top 20 player this week, and it’s been a great start to the season for the American player. He is in his first ATP final since 2022 and will be looking to end his title drought after confident victories over Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, Quentin Halys, Raphael Colligno and his compatriot Alexander Kovacevic. Nakashima’s serve has been super strong all week, and he will need to bring that level against Medvedev, who is one of the best returners on the tour.
Nakashima has the firepower to hurt Medvedev, especially on the Russian’s second serve, but Medvedev’s defense and elite return can suffocate and extract errors from the American’s racquet. Medvedev is an expert in putting extra balls in play, which gives him the edge when the match gets tight. Medvedev should have just about enough to win this one in a closely fought contest and get the title.
Prediction: Medvedev in 3
Main photo credit: Mike Frey-USA TODAY Sports
