Daniil Medvedev’s coach reveals horrifying emotions during the Russian’s tough defeat to Rafael Nadal in the 2022 Australian Open final
Daniil Medvedev had a two set lead and three break point chances against Rafael Nadal in the 2022 Australian Open final.
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Rafael Nadal and Daniil Medvedev (via X)
The 2022 Australian Open final brought immense joy to Rafael Nadal’s fans worldwide as the Spaniard came back from two sets down to defeat Daniil Medvedev and win his 21st Grand Slam title. While it was a thrilling moment for one fanbase, it was a devastating experience for the other.
Medvedev’s team still wonders what might have been if the Russian had managed to close out the match. His coach, Gilles Cervara, has shared how painful it was to witness the 2021 US Open champion collapse in the Australian Open final after being in a commanding position.
When Daniil lost to Nadal in 2022, I was ready to jump from the 60th floor. I had similar feelings against Sinner. But on the other hand, I understood that in this tournament, Daniil had been to hell and back.
Gilles Cervara said on Championat
Surprisingly, Medvedev faced a similar heartbreak two years later in another Australian Open final, this time against Jannik Sinner. The Russian once again led by two sets, but the Italian mounted a stunning comeback, winning the last three sets to claim his first Grand Slam title.
Medvedev has now reached three Australian Open finals but is still chasing a title at the Rod Laver Arena. In addition to the two painful five-set losses, he also lost the 2021 final to Novak Djokovic in straight sets. However, he redeemed himself later that year by defeating Djokovic in the US Open final to claim his maiden Grand Slam title.
Daniil Medvedev’s strange but consistent 2024 season
Daniil Medvedev had a strong 2024 season, finishing in the ATP top 5. However, he may still feel unsatisfied with his year. While he remains one of the best players in the world, he hasn’t been able to challenge the top names consistently.
The Russian didn’t win a title this year but reached two major finals at the Australian Open and Indian Wells, along with four semifinals in Dubai, Miami, Wimbledon, and Beijing.
Medvedev’s consistency has been impressive, except during the American hardcourt swing after the Olympics. However, he has struggled against Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, two players who have outpowered him in key matches. His defensive, counterpunching style is still effective against most opponents, but he has yet to find a solution against the aggressive games of Sinner and Alcaraz.
To improve, Medvedev will rely on the guidance of his coaching team. Gilles Simon, known for his high tennis IQ, is now a co-coach and may help Medvedev adjust his strategies. Meanwhile, Gilles Cervara, Medvedev’s long-time coach, will continue to play a key role in keeping him composed in pressure moments. Medvedev also needs to regain consistency on his serve to have better results.
One of Medvedev’s best wins this year came in the Australian Open semifinals. He faced Alexander Zverev, who had just beaten Alcaraz and quickly took a two-set lead. Medvedev was on the edge of defeat, just two points from losing, but he fought back to win 5-7, 3-6, 7-6(4), 7-6(5), 6-3 and reach his third Melbourne final. It was a testament to his resilience and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations.
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Fahad Hamid
(593 Articles Published)