‘Win it!’ – Daniil Medvedev gets Nick Kyrgios blessing for Australian Open glory
Daniil Medvedev was calm and composed in what could have become a far more dramatic match against the Australian Open home showman Nick Kyrgios.
The world number two admitted he was deliberately composed on court against the maverick Australian, ensuring he was not goaded into boiling over by the partisan crowd.
After he defeated Kyrgios 7-6 (7-1), 6-4, 4-6, 6-2, Medvedev spoke with two-time Australian Open champion Jim Courier for his post-match interview.
“I came to win this match and I’m happy that I managed to do it,” Medvedev began when asked about his calm demeanour.
“That’s the only choice when you’re getting booed between first and second serve, it’s not easy so you just have to stay calm and win the match.”
When the crowd responded with the Cristiano Ronaldo ‘Siuuuuu!’ celebration that is taking over at the Australian Open, which many are perceiving as boos, Medvedev lost a little of his patience as he called for the fans to be quiet.
“Guys I can’t hear [Courier]. Please, show some respect for Jim Courier.
“He won here guys, thank you. Let him speak please guys if you respect somebody at least respect Jim Courier.
“It’s just tough to play [with the chanting].”
When courier asked if Medvedev feels he is in a good position to back up his US Open triumph with the title in Melbourne, the Russian said his game is there, but we should wait and see.
“The thing is that the game is probably ready, but then you have tough opponents like Nick Kyrgios!
“That’s why we love tennis. Any match, anything can happen.”
Kyrgios certainly backs Medvedev to go on and clinch back-to-back Major titles, urging him on at the net at the end of the match.
“Win it, win it, win it,” the Aussie said during the handshake.
Medvedev faces US Open quarter-final opponent Botic van de Zandschulp next, the only man to claim a set off the world number two on his run to the crown in New York.
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