Medvedev: "Beating Nadal on clay is the biggest challenge today"

The Russian said Rafael Nadal's impeccable record on clay means the current world no 2 can win at least a Grand Slam every year.

Daniil Medvedev said beating Nadal on clay is the biggest challenge in tennis currently.

Nadal has an impeccable record on clay and has a 59-8 record in clay tournament finals. In fact, he has lost only twice in best-of-five-set matches on clay.

Medvedev has credited the Spaniard's domination on clay to his ability to stay injury free on the surface. And said Nadal's expertise on clay makes him a favourite in the Roland Garros tournament.

“Yes, it is true that Rafa has an advantage called Roland Garros. You can keep winning there if your injuries are kind," Medvedev told Marca.

"You never know when they can arrive and any little detail counts. I have not played against him on clay. It is not the best surface for me. But of course, when you look at the percentage of Nadal victories on the surface in general and Roland Garros in particular, it can definitely be described as the biggest challenge today."

The new year isn't going as intended for Medvedev. The current world no 5 lost in the round of 16 against Stan Wawrinka in the Australian Open. He has also lost to Vasek Pospisil after two sets in the Round of 32 of the Rotterdam Open.

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