Carlos Alcaraz‘s athleticism was yet again displayed at the China Open, as he raced past Daniil Medvedev to reach the summit clash. While the thrilling encounter captivated fans, Daniil Medvedev took everyone by surprise with his post-match comments. The Russian superstar concluded his post-match presser on a productive note – quite an unusual sighting, knowing that he seldom reserves an encouraging word or two after losing such a nerving contest.

Alcaraz was drawn against Meddy in the semifinal of the Beijing event. The Spaniard spent the summer enduring a dropped form and lamenting over several shock defeats after his Paris Olympics heartbreak. However, he prevailed from the shadow of that to lock in for a successful Asian hardcourt campaign. The 21-year-old reached the final four of the China Open without dropping a set. Amazingly, he maintained his impressive run against Medvedev as well, outfoxing the former World No. 1 in straight sets, 7-5, 6-3. The aftermath of the showdown, however, witnessed an unknown yet heartwarming side to Medvedev.

Talking in the post-match presser, Medvedev heaped praises on the Chinese fans for supporting him. Confirming that it is “rare” for him to iterate such unusual comments, the Russian sensation noted that despite the tough loss, he felt at home with the environment in Beijing. “Great. I love it in China, love Chinese fans. I feel like they love me. That’s probably one of not many places in the world.It was a fun match to play. Also, it’s rare that I’m going to say something like this after a defeat. But it was a fun match to play. I enjoyed it. Looking forward to what’s next.”

For those unaware, Medvedev’s outbursts and heated confrontations with hecklers and tournament officials have often landed him in trouble. That’s often associated with his demeanor and outlandish behavior and the Russian finds himself at the receiving end of criticism. However, his statement after the China Open semi-final was refreshing and heart-warming.

As for Alcaraz, his latest victory extended his head-to-head record against Meddy to 6-2. The four-time Grand Slam champion reflected on his hard-fought triumph in Beijing.

With the ATP Finals approaching, Carlos Alcaraz is looking to thwart his arch-rival Jannik Sinner‘s chances to come out on top. Currently second in the live race to Turin, the Spaniard trails Sinner by 2860 points. And the Italian sensation is what stands between him and the Beijing title. Alcaraz will look to bring his A-game to the fore in the final, but before that, he reserved a few words to term his resilience and impeccable showing in China.

The Spaniard said, “You have to keep fighting. You should focus on yourself and your tennis, so that’s what I tried to do. I was still playing the same way I had played until that point in the match. I didn’t lose the focus in that moment, so I’m really happy that I kept pushing.”

In a bid to decorate his laudable resume further, Alcaraz will clash against Sinner in Beijing’s title decider on Wednesday, October 2. Lifting the trophy won’t be easy though. The World No. 1 is fresh off his US Open glory and has maintained a stellar form – he is quite a threat to Alcaraz’s chances. Who do you think will win the China Open title? Let us know in the comments below.