Let’s hope that Daniil Medvedev never changes when he’s on a tennis court. The charismatic – and occasionally controversial Russian has been causing a stir again this afternoon.
The Australian Open finalist was taking on Gael Monfils in the Monte Carlo Masters. He defeated the Frenchman 6-2, 6-4 and set up a game with compatriot Karen Khachanov in the last 16.
Medvedev showed some scintillating form during his latest match-up. He was edging towards his very best and he looks determined to end his wait for another major this season.
However, there was a flash point in this match. It came during the first set and it meant that we saw the good, the bad and the ugly of Medvedev in this contest.
What Daniil Medvedev said to umpire during Monte Carlo Masters
Medvedev is never shy in saying what he really thinks and he let the umpire have both barrels today. However, he also found time to shake hands and make-up with the official at the end.
Medvedev said to Swedish official Mohamed Lahyani that he thought one of his calls was wrong. Their exchange went as follows, according to The Tennis Letter:
Lahyani: “I saw it catching the back.”
Medvedev: “How can you apologise? I lose the freaking game. You guys are getting ridiculous. With Hawk-Eye live you don’t see anything.”
This clash involved the 2021 US Open champion punching and pushing his umbrella and he clearly wasn’t happy.
However, all was good at the end and after Medvedev came from 1-4 down in the second set he was keen to apologise to the umpire.
Medvedev said: “Let’s see maybe I was wrong.”
Medvedev is good for the game of tennis
There aren’t enough characters in tennis and Medvedev is one player that you can never, ever take your eye off.
The player has been to four major finals, winning just one of them and he will definitely be keen to add some to his portfolio.
Medvedev won the Tour Finals in 2020 and on his day, the 28-year-old can mix it with the very best players in the world.
Some might argue that his antics on the court with Lahyani earlier today are a little bit unsavoury and he will make some enemies.
However, on this occasion, he did apologise and as long as he stays within the parameters of the rules, we think Medvedev is good for the sport.
Reaching the Australian Open final has clearly lit the fire in his belly again and we wouldn’t put it past Medvedev to win a major this year.
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