ATP Almaty Open 2026: Daniil Medvedev Reaches Final After Alexander Bublik Retires With Knee Injury

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Daniil Medvedev advanced to the Almaty Open 2026 final after Alexander Bublik retired with a knee injury during their semifinal on Saturday. The Russian won the opening set 6-3 before the third-seeded Kazakh was forced to withdraw, ending his hopes of reaching the championship match on home soil.

Medvedev, the defending champion and top seed, will face Georgian qualifier Nikoloz Basilashvili in Sunday’s final as he looks to retain his title. The former world No. 1 is one win away from defending an ATP Tour title for the first time in his career.

Alexander Bublik Retires Against Daniil Medvedev

Bublik appeared to be struggling with his movement from the opening games, with the knee issue affecting his ability to chase down shots. Medvedev secured an early break and maintained control of the opening set, losing only a handful of points on serve before closing it out 6-3.

The Kazakh retired at the end of the set, bringing a disappointing end to his campaign in front of the home crowd. Bublik had reached the semifinals after a hard-fought quarterfinal victory over Karen Khachanov, winning 4-6, 7-6(5), 7-6(5).

Medvedev expressed concern for his opponent after the match and acknowledged that he had noticed Bublik’s movement difficulties.

“I just hope it’s nothing serious. I could see from the beginning that he was struggling to move. I had to keep playing, but I hope he can come back as soon as possible,” Medvedev said.

Medvedev Sets Up Final Against Nikoloz Basilashvili

Medvedev will now meet Basilashvili, who defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas 4-6, 7-6(5), 6-3 in the other semifinal. The Georgian qualifier recovered after losing the opening set to secure his place in his first ATP Tour final since 2022.

The final presents Medvedev with an opportunity to continue his strong run of form and successfully defend the title he won in Almaty last year. He defeated Terence Atmane 6-4, 6-4 in the quarterfinals before facing Bublik.

Medvedev’s Strong Run Continues in 2026

Medvedev has been building momentum during the Asian swing. He won the title in Hangzhou and reached the semifinals in Beijing and at the Shanghai Masters before arriving in Kazakhstan. His victory over Atmane extended his record to 13 wins in 15 matches since the US Open.

The Russian has also been chasing a place at the ATP Finals in Turin, making every result during the closing stages of the season important. He currently holds 3,520 points.

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