Medvedev, Zverev Race Into Second Round At US Open

Former US Open champion Daniil Medvedev wasted little time in reaching the second round at the hard-court major on Tuesday, dispatching Hungarian Attila Balazs 6-1, 6-1, 6-0.

The third seed arrived in New York holding a modest 3-2 record at ATP Masters 1000 events in Toronto and Cincinnati, but quickly found his range on Arthur Ashe Stadium to earn his 50th tour-level win of the season after one hour and 16 minutes.

"It is always good to start well," Medvedev said. "I am happy with my performance. I am looking forward to the next matches and to play for as long as possible in New York. I hope I can play better and better each match as each one is going to be more difficult."

Medvedev was locked in from deep behind the baseline to limit opportunities for his Hungarian opponent. The World No. 3 committed just 13 unforced errors and did not face a break point to set a second-round meeting against Max Purcell or Christopher O’Connell.

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The 27-year-old holds fond memories at the US Open, having captured his maiden major title in 2021, when he beat Novak Djokovic in the final. Medvedev, who is chasing his second Slam crown this fortnight, has lifted four tour-level trophies on hard courts this year.

Medvedev now holds a 24-5 record at the US Open, earning more wins at the hard-court event than the three other majors (Australian Open 21, Wimbledon 13, Roland Garros 7).

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In other action, Alexander Zverev cruised past Aleksandar Vukic 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 to boost his Nitto ATP Finals qualification chances.

The 26-year-old, who reached the final in New York in 2020, won 86 per cent (50/58) of his first-serve points to advance after two hours and 11 minutes.

Zverev is currently eighth in the Pepperstone ATP Live Race To Turin (2,715) and knows a deep run at the hard-court major will increase his chances of qualifying for an event he has won twice (2018, '21). He will next meet Daniel Altmaier or Constant Lestienne.