“A Fight Against Yourself”: Daniil Medvedev on Playing Unfavourable Conditions at Tokyo Olympics 2020

As the focus shifts to the Tokyo Olympics 2020, we had Daniil Medvedev in action. He won his opening round match against Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan. He won the match in straight sets, 6-4 7-6(8). However, there was one thing bothering the Russian. 

Daniil Medvedev was unhappy with the conditions. He was heard saying that he would be hit by sunstroke or start to feel cramped up. However, he did indicate he is a professional and he will get on with things, no matter how the conditions are. 

The 25-year-old player stated, “I think there will be a lot of cramps, and sunstroke too. But I don’t want to bemoan or criticize these conditions, it’s like that. Anyway, tennis is always a fight, a fight against yourself. I think, like they do in Mexico, the matches should maybe start at like 6 pm because the heat actually gets much lighter. We’re here and we know the matches will be early and you couldn’t practice at this time.”

Daniil Medevedev accepts the situation

Daniil had a suggestion, indicating they should hold the matches in the evenings. However, he accepts it would be a difficult task for the organizers. The Russian was not happy with the time given between changeovers. He felt the need to give an added 30 seconds as they do during the ATP tournaments that are conducted in Asia. 

The Australian Open finalist further added, “I don’t think they’re going to change it in the middle of the tournament, but that’s what can be done and the fact we have only one minute between changeovers is a joke. I think if you ask 200 tennis players here, I think 195 will say one minute is a joke and it should be 1:30 like it is in Asian tournaments.”

After winning his match, Medvedev will be seen tomorrow competing in the doubles, partnering with Aslan Karatsev. We wish them the best of luck in their upcoming events. 

Watch this story: Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, Serena Williams and Others Emotional Moments at Olympic Games