Bellucci Stuns Medvedev in Rotterdam Upset

Rotterdam, Netherlands – Feb 6, 2025 – Italian qualifier Mattia Bellucci pulled off a stunning upset on Wednesday at the ABN AMRO Open in Rotterdam, defeating reigning champion Daniil Medvedev 6-3, 6-7(6), 6-3 in a riveting second-round clash.

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The 23-year-old Bellucci, ranked No. 92 in the world, played with an aggressive flair, unleashing blistering shots and unwavering tenacity. He consistently put pressure on Medvedev’s serve, converting 58 percent of points on the Russian’s second serve, according to Infosys ATP Stats. Bellucci showcased remarkable mental resilience, recovering from squandering a match point in the second-set tie-break to ultimately secure the victory.

Medvedev, who had struggled throughout the match, appeared rattled by Bellucci’s relentless attack. He repeatedly found himself on the defensive, struggling to regain control after dropping the first set. Despite saving six break points in the final set, Medvedev couldn’t overcome the determined Italian.

This is Bellucci’s second tour-level quarter-final and his first Top 10 win. It also marks Medvedev’s second straight early exit from the tournament following his Australian Open defeat to Learner Tien. This season, Medvedev has yet to register a victory over any player ranked within the top 150.

”I really tried to enjoy every minute of it,” Bellucci said after the match. “I tried to have fun on court and be myself as much as possible. I hit the serve and volley a bit and hit the underarm serve. I wanted to be myself and I saw him far back. I really think it is something I used to move him a little bit from there. I don’t want to be disrespectful. I felt I had to enjoy every moment of this match. This is a big result so I will enjoy it.”

Bellucci will next face either sixth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas or Dutchman Tallon Griekspoor in the quarter-finals.