By Richard Pagliaro | @Tennis_Now | Wednesday, October 9, 2024
Photo: Daniel Pockett/Getty
The high chair is a hot spot when Daniel Medvedev is playing
Chair judges are used to taking heat from Medvedev at times.
More: WADA appeals sinner’s doping case, seeks ban for world number 1
During his 7-6(3), 6-3 victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas In Shanghai today, Medvedev clashed with chair umpire Fergus Murphy, as did his Greek opponent, who was hit with a time violation.
Medvedev then reflected on the pros and cons of arguing with arbitrators.
“I mean, I argue a lot with the referees,” Medvedev told media in Shanghai. “So I was just waiting and I knew that no, I just have to stay focused on myself because sometimes it’s not easy after, like, a break to regroup.
“Because actually what happens when you argue with the referee, sometimes it distracts you, not in a good way. I think that’s what happened.”
Although Medvedev’s spat was entirely mild compared to Frances Tiafoe’s F-bomb tirade at the umpire following his loss to Roman Safiullin in Shanghai on Tuesday, the 2021 US Open champion is pragmatic about his love of the art of debating.
Medvedev sees his arguments in court as a bit like wildfire. If you can control the emotional intensity, the argument can fuel competitive hell. If not, it can consume and burn you.
“Sometimes that gives you extra push to, like, Oh, my God, everybody’s against me,” Medvedev said. “So I knew I had to stay strong and I was able to serve well and win the break, so, yeah, very happy with my level.”
Unfolding drama @DaniilMedwed with a stunning forward pass to break
#RolexShanghaiMasters pic.twitter.com/DQWMN28w3e
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) October 9, 2024
How will Medvedev manage his excitement against world number 1 Jannik Sinner in a Shanghai quarter-final rematch of the Australian Open final?
The former No. 1 says he plans to bring the fire and fight the current World No. 1.
“With Sinner, yes, I mean, we’ve already played four times this year,” Medvedev said. “I think one was too easy for him, the other three were tougher, in some I played well.
“I’m going to bring the fight, I’m going to prepare tactically, mentally, physically. It’s going to be a tough match, so I hope my body feels good, and I’m ready, yeah, to bring the fight and go for it. ”
