19 of Daniil Medvedev's twenty-one championships have been earned on hardcourt
A comeback the Russian player claimed his maiden championship for nearly 30 months with a win over Frenchman Moutet in the Almaty Open final.
The athlete, a former top-ranked player, has experienced a challenging period, achieving just a single victory at the Grand Slams and experiencing a meltdown at the American major.
His unpredictability on the professional circuit - and difficulties with his serving in specific - led to him exiting of the world's top 10 and ultimately parting ways with former trainer his previous coach.
Currently training with Thomas Johansson and Rohan Goetzke, he has gradually advanced in the recent weeks - peaking in a closely contested three-set win over Frenchman Moutet.
This represents his maiden title following the Rome competition and first on a hard court since spring of 2023.
Victory also means Medvedev has achieved 21 titles at twenty-one distinct events.
"For the first time I'm at a tournament with my two daughters simultaneously, so to secure a championship is really nice," commented world number 14 Medvedev.
"This victory is in tribute of my child Victoria, because the first title I achieved when my child her name was born was for her."
The athlete, the former major winner, had failed in his last six title deciders, comprising in Halle earlier this year.
His defensive play style and recurring emotional displays on court had prompted observers to wonder if his ability to play at the top level was over.
Yet the athlete has implemented adjustments in recent weeks, striving to advance forward and play aggressively, supported by an enhanced service.
Medvedev recovered from a break down in the first set against the difficult Frenchman, taking 4 of the concluding five points to go ahead.
The pair traded service breaks in the second set before Moutet, attempting for his maiden professional title, seized the initiative to push for a decider.
Moutet defended four early-game chances in a competitive third set before the champion broke to 15 to serve for the match.
Fittingly, Medvedev clinched victory with a rally at the net, with the Frenchman incapable to manage a return after two hours and 38 minutes.
