Daniil Medvedev, the world’s No. 6 tennis player, had to prematurely conclude his journey in the 2023 Doha tournament. Despite showing prowess on the court compared to his previous performances, Medvedev’s campaign came to a halt during the quarterfinals. He was forced to retire after the first set against his competitor, Felix Auger-Aliassime.
Auger-Aliassime demonstrated his skills by grabbing the opening set 6-3, thanks to a double break. Medvedev made an abrupt exit, without the customary handshake with his opponent or the chair umpire. He later revealed the reason for his unexpected departure — food poisoning. He expressed his disappointment and hopes of recuperating in time for the ATP 500 event in Dubai scheduled for the following week.
Medvedev’s sudden retirement left his opponent, Auger-Aliassime, taken aback. There was no noticeable shortfall in Medvedev’s game, and he kept pace during the initial half of the set. However, after experiencing back-to-back breaks, Medvedev bowed out of the match just a half-hour in.
Auger-Aliassime showcased a stellar performance, forfeiting just four points in his service games. He successfully sidestepped break points and intensified the pressure on Medvedev, who initially served well and even led 3-2 before his game began to falter.
The opening match had Medvedev closing with a service winner, while Auger-Aliassime marked his presence with an ace in the second game, bringing the score to 1-1. Medvedev took the lead with three consecutive points in the third game. Auger-Aliassime responded with an ace in the fourth game and replicated this feat at 2-3 for a boost.
A turning point came at 3-3, when Auger-Aliassime took advantage of Medvedev’s costly double fault to convert a break chance. Auger-Aliassime furthered his lead to 5-3, following a backhand crosscourt winner in the eighth game. Medvedev’s momentum waned, and he struggled behind the initial shot in the ninth game.
Auger-Aliassime created two set points with a forced error and secured the set victory 6-3 with a forehand winner. This achievement was overshadowed by Medvedev’s unforeseen retirement.
Medvedev later stated, “Unfortunately, I had food poisoning. I’m very disappointed to end my run here in Doha like this as I feel like I was playing well. I look forward to coming back next year.” His fans will no doubt be eagerly awaiting his return to form in the forthcoming tournaments.