Daniil Medvedev has gradually developed a rivalry with Novak Djokovic and things became more clear when the Russian clinched the Us Open title after beating Djokovic in the finals. Former Australian Doubles champions Todd Woodbridge believes that if Medvedev wins the upcoming Australian Open it won’t be a surprise for the tennis world.
The former World No 1 highlights how Medevedev’s confidence comes from his inner self belief. Therefore he feels that the Russian should believe in himself and take that approach when he reaches Melbourne for the Australian Open.
“Daniil Medvedev seems to believe that it’s just a matter of time. Winning the US Open wasn’t a surprise to him, and I don’t think winning an Australian Open would be a surprise at all,” Woodbridge said. “I think he thinks it should be his.”
Woodbridge also added how he has seen many players pretend to be confident in facing the big stars but he feels that Medvedev’s confidence is very genuine. “I’ve seen people look the part and try to throw out this air of confidence and invincibility, but for me that’s always a bit of a front,” Woodbridge said. “With Medvedev, I just see it as this inward confidence. And I liked that about him.”
Woodbridge also spoke about this year’s Australian Open where Medvedev was in his element but could not clinch the trophy as he was taken aback by the magnitude of the event. He feels that it was a learning curve for the Russian and hopefully he will use that to clinch the title this time.
The former Doubles champion credited Medvedev for developing his maturity. Woodbridge was impressed with the Russian’s demeanour in his US Open win against Djokovic this year. He points out the Russian’s intelligence in figuring out Djokovic’s state of mind and then reacting to it was immense.
“There’s a maturity there that comes with a really good mental attitude and an ability to look at the other end of the court to understand what’s happening mentally from your opponent,” Woodbridge concluded.
In preparation for the Grand Slam Down Under, Medvedev will feature in the ATP Cup. The 25-year-old will go up against the likes of Matteo Berrettini, Ugo Humbert and Alex de Minaur in the group stage.
