Daniil Medvedev scores impressive straight-set win to reach fourth round of US Open

Then there was another one.

At this year's US Open, Daniil Medvedev is the last survivor of one of the most exclusive clubs in tennis.

The 28-year-old Russian, ranked number 5 in the world, defeated Italy's Flavio Cobolli (number 31) in straight sets 6-3, 6-4, 6-3 in the third round at Arthur Ashe Stadium on Saturday night and is the only remaining former US Open champion in the men's singles.

Medvedev will next face Portuguese Nuno Borges, who is ranked 34th in the world.

“The game was fun,” said Medvedev. “It was pretty crowded for that late. I enjoyed it.”

Medvedev won the 2021 US Open by defeating the legendary Novak Djokovic – last year’s champion – who lost in the third round this year to Australian No. 28 Alexei Popyrin.

World number one Carlos Alcaraz, who won the 2022 US Open, lost in the second round to unseeded Dutchman Botic van de Zandschuld.

“For me, surprises are not really important,” said Medvedev. “This means that the conditions are a bit difficult, so the favorites may have less room to maneuver [for error] against the other guys. I just have to be more careful. If I play good tennis, I can win the whole thing. If I don't play well, I can lose against anyone.”

In addition to his victory at the 2021 US Open, Medvedev – who is one of the most colorful personalities on the tour – has also reached the final of the tournament two other times.

Djokovic got revenge against Medvedev in last year's final, and Rafael Nadal defeated him in the 2019 final. Medvedev also made it to the semifinals in 2020.

At the US Open he played most of his best tennis.

With Saturday's win, he improved his all-time US Open record to 32-6, and has now reached the fourth round in each of the last six years.

Medvedev's serve was dominant – he won 81 percent of his first serves and recorded nine aces to two from Cobolli.

On Saturday the two met for the first time.

However, Medvedev has a 2-0 record against Borges, with both matches taking place this year.

“He is a very tough opponent,” said Medvedev. “I played against him for the first time at the Australian Open and he surprised me with his power. A very aggressive player. Not an easy match.”