"I don’t find it difficult to support others": Daniil Medvedev reconciles with Alexander Zverev after past criticism
ATP
Daniil Medvedev has put his ‘feud’ with Alexander Zverev
behind as they team up for the Laver Cup. Two of the top players in recent
years have had a complicated rivalry, with cross-criticism following several of
their matches, where Medvedev leads the head-to-head 12-7 (2-1 in finals).
This time, they are teammates in Team Europe, captained by
Bjorn Borg, during the Laver Cup. The World No. 2 and World No. 5 are among
their team’s main assets and are preparing for the third day of competition,
where both must win to keep their team’s hopes alive.
The relationship between Medvedev and Zverev has been rocky,
especially after their clash at the 2023 Monte Carlo Masters, where the Russian
claimed a grueling 3-6, 7-5, 7-6(7) victory.
“He is one of the most unfair players in the world. I take
fair play and sportsmanship very seriously. He doesn’t. He takes a toilet break
when it’s not allowed anymore,” Zverev said after the match. “There are a
thousand situations where, when I start playing better, he tries to pull
something. I’m extremely disappointed in him as an athlete.”
Medvedev downplayed Zverev’s comments, stating the German
often says ‘strange things’ in the press: “Sascha lives in his own world. I’ve
had like five players come up to me in the locker room and say, ‘Come on
Daniil, why are you so unfair?’” he said, smiling. “When he loses, you can
probably find 25 interviews where he says something strange,” the former World
No. 1 added. “When he says someone lacks fair play, you think, okay, great.
Take a look at yourself in the mirror.”
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While united as teammates in Berlin, Zverev and Medvedev aim
to leave their issues behind. During the pre-tournament press conference with
the entire team present, the German remarked, “Normally, we always meet in the
final rounds of a tournament and give everything to beat each other. Now, we’re
here as a team with one goal: to win the Laver Cup.”
Medvedev was asked about his past disagreements with Zverev
and another teammate, Stefanos Tsitsipas. “I don’t find it difficult to support
others,” said the 28-year-old. “We’ve played a few matches, there were
arguments, and someone said something in the press. And that’s fine,” said the
2021 US Open champion. “But a month later, it’s forgotten!”
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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