Revitalized Medvedev Claims First Championship in 882 Days
Nineteen of the Russian's 21 victories have been earned on hardcourt
A comeback Medvedev secured his first championship for 882 days with a win over Frenchman Moutet in the Almaty Open final.
The Russian, a former world number one, has experienced a challenging period, winning just a single victory at the big events and suffering a meltdown at the American major.
His inconsistency on the professional circuit - and difficulties with his service game in particular - led to him exiting of the elite rankings and finally splitting with former mentor Gilles Cervara.
Currently collaborating with Johansson and Rohan Goetzke, the tennis star has consistently improved in the last few weeks - culminating in a closely contested 7-5 4-6 6-3 triumph over Frenchman Moutet.
It is the player's first championship following the Rome competition and maiden on a hard court from March of the previous year.
Success also means he has secured 21 victories at 21 distinct events.
"This marks the first occasion I am participating in a tournament with my children simultaneously, so to secure a title is particularly special," commented ranked player the champion.
"This title is in tribute of my second daughter her name, because the first title I achieved when my first daughter Alisa was delivered was for her."
The athlete, the former major winner, had lost his past six title deciders, featuring in the German tournament previously this season.
Medvedev's defensive approach and frequent emotional displays on court had caused some to wonder if his capacity to compete at the top level was over.
Yet the athlete has implemented adjustments in recent weeks, attempting to come to the net and compete aggressively, reinforced by an better service.
The champion recovered from a deficit in the opening set against the difficult Moutet, taking 4 of the concluding five points to go ahead.
The competitors swapped breaks in the following set before the Frenchman, attempting for his initial ATP Tour championship, took control to create a third set.
Moutet defended 4 early opportunities in a tight third set before Medvedev won the break to fifteen to close out the victory.
Suitably, the winner clinched the title with a rally at the net, with his opponent failing to manage a volley after a lengthy match.
