Jannik Sinner has looked ruthless in this US Open. Having started the season on a high with the Australian Open title, the Italian has now set his sights on clinching the title at Flushing Meadows. But, his quest for a maiden Flushing Meadows crown stands threatened, considering the top seed will square off against Daniil Medvedev for a blockbuster quarterfinal rematch in New York on Thursday, September 5.

Jannik Sinner vs Daniil Medvedev: Preview

The No. 1 seed will enter the last eight on the back of a nervy win over home favorite Tommy Paul. After facing major resistance from the American star, an unfazed Sinner narrowly won the first two sets by executing break points better. Despite those challenges, the Italian maintained his level of play to down Paul in a breathtaking three-set showdown, 7-6(3), 7-6(5), 6-1.

Meanwhile, Medvedev dropped one of the coldest performances at the tournament and didn’t even give us a blanket. Having contested against Nuno Borges in the fourth round, the Russian superstar’s fearless gameplay helped navigate him through what was a one-way traffic. He secured a commanding straight-set victory over the Portuguese sensation with a score of 6-0, 6-1, 6-3.

Sinner vs Medvedev: Head-to-Head

Both players share an interesting rivalry. They’ve locked horns 12 times on the ATP Tour and last contested at Wimbledon. The No.  5 seed toppled the Italian pro in an epic five-set thriller. However, Sinner has won their other two encounters this year. As of now, the Russian leads Sinner 7-5 in their head-to-head, with the duo’s Grand Slam face-offs tied at 1-1.

• 2024 Wimbledon, QF: Medvedev 6-7(7), 6-4, 7-6(4), 2-6, 6-3
• 2024 Miami Open, SF: Sinner 6-1, 6-2
• 2024 Australian Open, Final: Sinner 3-6, 3-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-3
• 2023 Nitto ATP Finals, SF: Sinner 6-3, 6-7(4), 6-1
• 2023 Vienna Open, Final: Sinner 7-6(7), 4-6, 6-3
• 2023 Beijing Open, Final: Sinner 7-6(2), 7-6(2)
• 2023 Miami Open, Final: Medvedev 7-5, 6-3
• 2023 Rotterdam, Final: Medvedev 5-7, 6-2, 6-2
• 2022 Vienna Open, QF: Medvedev 6-4, 6-2
• 2021 Nitto ATP Finals, Round Robin: Medvedev 6-0, 6-7(5), 7-6(8)
• 2021 Marseille, QF: Medvedev 6-2, 6-4
• 2020 Marseille, R16: Medvedev 1-6, 6-1, 6-2

Prediction: Sinner to win in 5 sets

Boasting an impeccable 32-2 record on hardcourts this season, Jannik Sinner has become a force to be reckoned with at the US Open. The Italian’s stellar run in New York amid controversy and media scrutiny is nothing short of commendable. Moreover, his four of five titles have come on the hard courts, as he has consistently secured a QF spot in every event he has performed in. He also bagged the Cincinnati Masters crown before commencing his New York campaign. However, since his Australian Open triumph, Sinner hasn’t been able to improve his Slam results.

Flaunting a relentless aggression from the baseline, Sinner’s gameplay revolves around his exceptional shot-making. The Italian looks to finish points quickly and thrives on his flat-bouncing punishing serve. Notably, during his last encounter, the top seed registered 81% wins on his first serve while securing a healthy 56% on the second.

Medvedev, on the other hand, has enjoyed modest success this year. Despite historically playing some of his best tennis on the hard courts, the Russian star came to New York with a moderate 22-6 record. Furthermore, he is yet to win a title this season, having lost in Melbourne and Indian Wells. Regardless, he has displayed impressive form at the US Open. He also holds an exceptional 4-0 win record in the QF rounds of the Flushing Meadows event.

Arguably one of the best counter-punch players, Meddy’s defensive skills and tactical intelligence make him a tough nut to crack. Known to irk players with his unorthodox style, the No. 5 seed tests his rivals’ temperament by engaging in long rallies. But, his serves took a slight hit during his last contest. The 28-year-old fired 5 double faults and mustered merely 50% wins on break points.

Overall, this match is a toss-up and can go either way. However, considering Sinner’s newfound form on the hardcourts, chances are that the Italian capitalizes on the opportunity to advance and beats the No. 5 seed.