‘I’m sure Djokovic will be watching’ – Daniil Medvedev makes cheeky reference to 21st Slam role reversal
After ousting Stefanos Tsitsipas to reach the Australian Open final, Daniil Medvedev spoke about how he thinks Novak Djokovic will be backing him to stop Rafael Nadal from taking the men’s Slam record.
The world number two is into his second Australian Open final and fourth Slam final overall as he will fight for consecutive Slam titles.
Like at the US Open in September, Medvedev will be facing a player on the verge of breaking the men’s Major tally record, that being Djokovic in New York and Nadal in Melbourne.
“I’m going to play again against one of the greatest [in Nadal],” Medvedev told Jim Courier in his post-match interview.
“And what’s funny is again I’m going to play someone going for the 21st Slam.
“So, I guess last time [with the US Open] Rafa was watching near the TV.
“I don’t know who he was cheering for but I think Novak will be watching this one in two days also!”
“I’m ready, I know that Rafa is a very strong player.
“I will need to show my best to try to win this match.”
Medvedev also faced Nadal in his first ever Slam final, coming at the 2019 US Open, with the Spaniard triumphing there for his 19th Major title.
Before the men’s final on Sunday, women’s world number one Ashleigh Barty will be looking to write some home Slam history by ending the 44-year wait for an Australian singles champion in Melbourne.
She takes on American Danielle Collins on Saturday, and Courier asked Medvedev if he would be watching the match.
“Well, depends what time. 7:30? Well I usually eat dinner at 8:15 so I guess I’ll watch the start!”
Courier then responded: “I’m trying to set you up to win this (Australian) crowd over here and you’re just kicking it!”
Realising his mistake, Medvedev replied: “I’m going to watch it on my phone guys, I’m going to watch it, I’m going to watch it!”
“There you go!” Jim added.
“Thanks Jim, thanks,” Medvedev finished.
? Read >> Breaking tennis news
? Follow >> 24/7 LIVE scores
? Free >> Receive our legendary newsletter
? Join >> Tennishead CLUB, the world’s only virtual tennis club
? Social >>Facebook, Twitter, Instagram & YouTube
? Order >> World’s best tennis magazine
? Shop >> Lowest price tennis gear from our trusted retail partner