ATP BRISBANE. By Emiliano Naftali
Daniil Medvedev appears to be steadily reconnecting with the version of himself that once ruled the ATP Tour. The former world No. 1 and 2021 US Open champion claimed the title at the ATP 250 Brisbane International, marking a confident start to his 2026 season and signaling a return to form.
Ranked No. 13 in the world, the Russian defeated American Brandon Nakashima (No. 33) 6-2, 7-6(1) in the final, combining his trademark defensive solidity with improved efficiency at key moments. The victory earned Medvedev his first title of the season and offered encouraging signs after a period of inconsistency by his lofty standards.
During the trophy ceremony, Medvedev shared an emotional moment off the court, dedicating the title to his daughter. “My daughter had her birthday while I was here,” he said. “I dedicate this to her—her first year.”
Once a dominant force on hard courts, Medvedev reached the pinnacle of the sport by winning the US Open in 2021 and contesting six Grand Slam finals overall. In recent seasons, however, fluctuating results and physical challenges saw him slip down the rankings, moving away from the elite group he had long been part of.
Now, Brisbane may represent a turning point. Medvedev will arrive at the 2026 Australian Open ranked No. 12, with little pressure in terms of points to defend after a second-round exit in 2025. That scenario presents a valuable opportunity to climb back into the Top 10, a goal that suddenly looks attainable given his renewed confidence and form.
As the first Grand Slam of the year approaches, Medvedev’s performance in Brisbane suggests that his trademark consistency and competitive edge are once again very much alive—and that the Russian could be ready to reassert himself among the game’s elite.