Daniil Medvedev admits he is looking forward to taking time away from the Tour after losing his opening match at the ATP Finals on Sunday.
Medvedev, who won the season-ending event in 2020, fell in straight sets to Taylor Fritz after producing a lackluster performance where he lost his cool twice. He hit three double faults in a row to drop the opening set and then received a code violation for smashing his racket. Later in the match, he was issued with a point penalty after deliberately striking an on-court microphone with his racket. Medvedev’s second action was triggered by a winning lob from Fritz which saw the American break in the second set.
“I get angry, frustrated. This time completely with myself, not with anyone. Just with myself. Very frustrated.” Medvedev told reporters in Turin.
Against Fritz, Medvedev engaged in some lengthy rallies that lasted beyond 15 shots with the American coming out on top in most of them. Something he linked to the types of balls being used. The former US Open champion has been one of the most vocal critics of the ball quality on Tour and previously spoke about the possibility that it could be linked to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The balls make it so that everyone can do it now. So not at all surprised,” he said of playing long rallies.
“I have this every day for like two, three years. Every practice is a struggle. Every match is a struggle. I was holding for a long time. Now I feel zero pleasure of being on the court. So no surprise at all about the match today.”
Medvedev still has a shot of qualifying for the semi-finals in Turin but is somewhat relaxed about his chances. Saying in his press conference he would still be happy if he was knocked out in the group stages with the off-season approaching.
“100%. It’s the first time I say it,” he replied when asked if he is hoping for the season to end.
“(The) ATP Finals are not easy for me. But like I always fight. I’m a good fighter. I am still 4 in the world. Might be 5 if Taylor plays good here (in Turin).
“I’m sure a lot of guys would like it. But now I’m tired to fight. I’m tired to fight against something (the tennis balls being used) that doesn’t depend on myself.
“Today I had my chances. I’ll have them in the next matches. If it doesn’t work out, I go on holiday. I’m happy.”
Looking ahead to 2025, Medvedev will be defending a lot of points at the Australian Open after reaching the final in January. The 28-year-old admits he has work to do in the coming weeks, including coming up with a plan to deal with his hatred for the balls being used.
“I feel like I still can win against a lot of players. I could have won the match today being maybe in better shape or even being just a bit more lucky and not hitting for sure three double-faults.” Medvedev explained.
“I feel like I’m at a big disadvantage, but I need to do something with it.
“I’m going to work a lot on pre-season to try to find some solutions, for sure.”
At the ATP Finals, Medvedev will next play Alex de Minaur on Tuesday.
