Bublik edges Khachanov to book Medvedev semifinal in Almaty
Alexander Bublik came back from a set down to defeat Karen Khachanov 4-6, 7-6 (5), 7-6 (5) in Almaty. Defending champion Daniil Medvedev advanced by beating Terence Atmane 6-4, 6-4 without conceding a break point. Bublik and Medvedev will meet for a place in the final.
Bublik reached the quarterfinals without completing a match this week: a first-round bye was followed by a walkover when Fabian Marozsan withdrew ill. He then struck 21 aces and marked ten years since deciding to represent Kazakhstan. Khachanov, the 2024 champion, had saved five match points in his previous match.
Medvedev faced no break points, converted two of eight chances, and now leads Atmane 3-0. He is sixth in the Race to Turin and two victories from his first successful title defense. Against Bublik he holds a 6-1 head-to-head lead, but Bublik won their latest meeting in the 2025 Halle final.
The result may lift local interest in Almaty’s tournament, especially with Bublik, a Kazakhstan representative, reaching the semifinals. A marquee matchup against Medvedev could draw casual fans and boost attendance or viewing, while giving younger players a visible home favorite to follow. For Medvedev, a title defense could strengthen his standing in the season-long race, affecting rankings and sponsorship attention. These effects are likely modest and short-term, centered on fans, organizers, and the players’ professional prospects.