"No matter what form Rafa is in, you're still scared": Rafael Nadal still has fear factor on clay says Daniil Medvedev
ATP
Daniil
Medvedev commented on Rafael Nadal's form following the Spaniard's victory over
Alex De Minaur in the second round of the Madrid Open. The 22-times Grand Slam
champion had suffered a comprehensive defeat to the Australian just a week
earlier at the Barcelona Open, but this time he got his revenge with a
straight-sets win, advancing to the third round of the tournament.
At the
same time, world No. 4 Medvedev was playing against Italian Matteo Arnaldi,
struggling in a three-set battle to secure victory. The former US Open champion
will face the 25th seed Sebastian Korda in the round of 32. During the press
conference before the match, he was asked about Nadal's current form after
securing his best win since 2022.
Medvedev analyzes Nadal's form after Madrid victory
Medvedev
wasn't too surprised by Nadal's victory and praised the Spaniard, saying that
regardless of how Nadal feels, challenging him is always a daunting task: “No
matter what form Rafa is in or how he’s feeling, when he steps especially on
clay, I would say even it doesn’t matter if it’s clay or hardcourt, but
specially on clay.. you’re still scared.”
“You’re
still scared of Rafa that wins 80 matches & loses 1, something like this. And
he proved it today you know (against De Minaur). I didn’t see the match, I was
playing at the same time but, 2 hours he managed to win so probably feeling
better and better,”
Nadal will play against the world No. 91 Pedro Cachin at Madrid Open third round
“(He
is) definitely dangerous, so let’s see how he does further on. If he can play
better and better I think it’s good, it’s going to be very fun and tough for
other players,” the Russian former world No. 1 added.
Nadal
(No. 512) will play in the third round of the tournament on Monday at the
Manolo Santana court against the Argentine Pedro Cachin (No. 91), who surprised
in the second round by defeating the American Frances Tiafoe (No. 23).
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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