World No.3 Daniil Medvedev commenced his US Open journey with a resounding win over Hungarian Attila Balázs. The Russian won 6-1 6-1 6-0, blasting 41 winners while committing just 13 unforced errors in the match, which lasted a mere 1 hour and 14 minutes.
After his swift victory, Daniil Medvedev participated in a post-match interview where he addressed questions about his high-profile compatriots playing in the tournament.
Daniil Medvedev talks about Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic
“That’s probably the fastest three-set match I played,” Medvedev said following his swift victory over Balázs
The world No.3 then delivered words of admiration for Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic, emphasising the importance of concentrating on his own game and striving to attain the achievements.
Daniil Medvedev was asked if he’s flying under the radar bc of Alcaraz & Djokovic:
“I don’t care. It’s normal that Carlos & Novak are the biggest names. They’re farther in the points, more GS. This year they played some amazing finals.. My goal is to try to play well & get… pic.twitter.com/ZQAbr3wX0J
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) August 29, 2023
When asked whether he would prefer to face Novak Djokovic or Carlos Alcaraz, Medvedev remained composed. “Alcaraz. I can’t play in the finals. So, perhaps in the semi-finals. The significant players are Carlos and Novak. They need to win their matches to meet me. However, my focus is on winning my matches and seeing how it progresses,” stated the rangy Russian.
Daniil Medvedev easily secured victory about 12 hours after Djokovic’s straightforward win in his return to the US Open. He showcased the same impressive form he displayed when he defeated Djokovic for the 2021 US Open title, preventing the Serbian from achieving the first calendar-year grand slam in men’s tennis since 1969.
Medvedev had previously reached the final in 2019, where he lost to Rafael Nadal before claiming his first major two years later.
The world No.3 possesses a powerful serve and the endurance to chase down opponents’ shots. His swift forehand and baseline strategy prevent opponents from closing in on him. In comparison to Djokovic’s exceptional ball retrieval skills and Alcaraz’s rapid footwork, the Russian remains steadfast and adept at counterpunching when necessary.
Daniil Medvedev discloses his plans to win
Discussing his strategy within the confines of the Arthur Ashe Stadium, the self-proclaimed hard court specialist expressed his appreciation for the ample space offered by the US Open hard courts. “My goal is try to win.”, Medvedev said.
“I hold a lot of memories. I have won a lot of games here. Especially in 2019, a lot of space here. Would love to play here or in other stadiums. The further we go the more chance I have to play here.”
“I feel New York loves me. I enjoy playing here and enjoy everything about it. It’s the biggest arena. Night sessions at US Open are pretty special.”, Medvedev said.
His determination to win was evident against Balázs, who struggled to contain the Russian’s prowess. At every opportunity, Daniil Medvedev broke the lower-ranked Hungarian. The solitary bright moment for Balázs occurred when he executed a forehand cross-court shot to secure a point while Medvedev led 5-0 in the third set. With his fate nearly sealed, Balázs raised his hands in triumph, drawing cheers from the crowd and applause from Daniil Medvedev.
Following his defeat by Carlos Alcaraz in the Wimbledon semi-finals, Medvedev’s path to the US Open has been steady, if not great. He reached the quarterfinals of the Canadian Open and the round of 16 in Cincinnati. But he has showcased some of his finest performances at Flushing Meadows, reaching the final in 2019, semi-finals in 2020, and winning it in 2021.
