Daniil Medvedev's victory over world No. 1 Jannik Sinner at Wimbledon on Tuesday marked the 36th men's match this year to go to five sets, setting a new professional era Grand Slam record. The Russian fifth seed triumphed in exactly four hours, securing his spot in the semifinals where he will face Spain's Carlos Alcaraz. Alcaraz, the defending champion, also experienced a five-set challenge in the third round against Frances Tiafoe but managed a more straightforward win over Tommy Paul on Tuesday.
With five men's singles matches remaining, it's likely there will be additional extended battles. Medvedev suggested that the numerous rain delays and the nature of grass courts might contribute to the frequency of five-set matches. "I don't know. Maybe the level is closer than before," Medvedev, 28, remarked to reporters. He added that grass surfaces often result in tight contests where a single break can determine a set's outcome, making straight-set victories rare.
The longest men's singles match this year featured Thanasi Kokkinakis defeating Felix Auger-Aliassime in a grueling five-set encounter lasting four hours and 38 minutes. As Wimbledon progresses, fans can expect more intense and prolonged matches as players vie for the prestigious title.
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