‘I’m more like Novak when I was younger’: Daniil Medvedev stumbles upon similarities with Novak Djokovic
World No. 4 Daniil Medvedev recently found himself in a tough spot as he prepares for his clay debut for the season. Ahead of his second-round clash at the 2024 Monte Carlo Masters, the Russian was asked about his favorite player of all time, and it became difficult for him to pick one.
While the upcoming generation usually picks one of the Big 4, Medvedev didn’t single out any one of them. He rather showed his respect to the quartet by claiming he grew up ‘playing their tennis’. The Russian also claimed that he wanted to create his path and having an idol would have made the task difficult.
The former World No. 1 also paid his respect to compatriot Marat Safin. Medvedev remembered how he managed to catch Safin’s matches despite having school the next day. But despite the answer, he maintained his stance of having no one favorite player.
The Monte Carlo press, however, remained adamant on getting an answer. They twisted the question, asking for his favorite in terms of the playing style. Medvedev eventually gave in. He drew a parallel between himself and Novak Djokovic, finding himself far different from both Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer.
Stylistically, I’ll say that in some ways I’m more like Novak when he was younger. I think that his tennis is different now than at the beginning of his career. Rafa is left-handed and Roger plays tennis, which is far from mine. Therefore – Djokovic. said Daniil Medvedev, speaking in the press conference.
Medvedev and Djokovic have created one of the biggest rivalries in recent times. The two have contested in big finals, including Grand Slam events. The two also share some other common traits, like getting on the nerves of the crowd and using that energy to motivate themselves to come back in the match and win it.
Daniil Medvedev points out why Novak Djokovic deserves to be respected
Djokovic, despite his on-court fiery personality, has often shown his humble side outside the tennis court. He has been hailed as one of the most humble athletes globally. Despite widespread criticism, he remains honest and genuine when it comes to treating fans.
Nole’s story of taking Medvedev on his private jet for Davis Cup matches is quite famous. During the conference in Monte Carlo, the Russian was asked if he had ever extended a similar invitation to an upcoming player and Medvedev was at his candid best in answering it.
I can’t say that I do something the same way as someone else. I always do what I think is right. But I remember this moment very much. I also trained with Novak. The plane arrived when I was already in the top 100. said Medvedev
The World No. 4 did, however, point out how the Serb’s behavior has remained the same irrespective of Medvedev’s ranking. For the quality of treating every colleague of his with equal respect, the Russian felt it was long due that Djokovic be given fair treatment.
And when I was only in the top 400, Djokovic called me to work. He always treated me with the same respect – no matter how old I was or what place I was in the ranking. He treats many people this way, and it deserves respect. concluded Medvedev
Djokovic has started his campaign in Monte Carlo with a straight-set second-round win over Roman Safiullin. As for Medvedev, he will now take on Gael Monfils in his first match at the Masters event. Monfils staged a brilliant 6-7(9), 6-3, 7-5 comeback against Aleksander Vukic to reach the second round yesterday.