Revitalized Medvedev Secures First Trophy in 882 Days
Nineteen of Medvedev's twenty-one titles have been won on hard surfaces
A resurgent Medvedev claimed his maiden championship for over two years with a win over opponent Moutet in the competition title decider.
The Russian, a ex- world number one, has endured a difficult period, managing just a single victory at the Grand Slams and experiencing a meltdown at the American major.
The player's unpredictability on the professional circuit - and difficulties with his service game in particular - caused him dropping out of the world's top 10 and eventually splitting with long-time trainer Cervara.
Currently working with Johansson and Rohan Goetzke, Medvedev has gradually advanced in the recent weeks - peaking in a closely contested 7-5 4-6 6-3 win over opponent Moutet.
It is Medvedev's initial trophy after the Italian tournament and maiden on a hard court since that period of the previous year.
The win also indicates the Russian has won 21 victories at 21 distinct competitions.
"This marks the first occasion I am participating in a tournament with my two daughters together, so to secure a trophy is particularly special," stated tennis professional Daniil Medvedev.
"This title is in dedication of my younger daughter Victoria, because the first title I won when my child her name was born was for her."
Medvedev, the past champion, had lost his last six championship matches, featuring in the German tournament previously this season.
His retrieving play style and recurring outbursts on the playing surface had led some to question if his ability to play at the top level was over.
Yet the 29-year-old has altered his approach in the last few weeks, striving to come to the net and play positively, reinforced by an improved serve.
He came back from a disadvantage in the initial set against the difficult opponent, securing 4 of the final five games to take the lead.
Both players traded service breaks in the second set before the Frenchman, bidding for his first professional victory, took control to create a final set.
Moutet rescued 4 early-game opportunities in a close third set before the Russian secured a break to that score to secure the win.
Suitably, the winner clinched victory with a rally at the front of the court, with Moutet failing to control a return after two hours and 38 minutes.
