Daniil Medvedev says he has ‘a lot more to do’ to be remembered but is still ‘one of Mats Wilander’s favourites’
Daniil Medvedev was flattered and humble in his response to being labelled one of Mats Wilander’s favourite players after reaching the third round of Roland Garros.
The world number two defeated Serbian clay court specialist Laslo Djere 6-3, 6-4, 6-3 on Court Philippe-Chatrier.
After the match, former world number one and three-time Roland Garros champion Wilander conducted the on-court interview.
He opened by revealing that Medvedev is among his favourite players at the moment.
The Swede then asked if Medvedev realised how different he plays from other pros.
Medvedev began: “I’m really disappointed in you Mats.
“I thought I was going to speak French to the French crowd all the time.
“You have to progress in your French [Mats].
“No I’m joking!”
After a chuckle with the spectators and Mats, Medvedev continued: “Thanks a lot for these nice words.
“To hear this from one of the legends of the sport, it’s just nice to hear.
“Of course I have a lot more to do to be remembered more than right now.
“But I’m happy that people like you can say these words about me.”
Medvedev has arguably already cemented his place in the tennis history books.
Firstly, with his 2021 US Open title, and by becoming the 27th different man to be world number one since the inception of the ATP rankings in 1973.
On the battle today, the Russian said he believed Djere played better clay court tennis, but added he managed to fight on each point to put one more ball in the court against the Serb.
Medvedev further noted that despite the straight sets victory, his win took over two and a half hours to complete.
Though not reflected in the final score, this point is testament to the true level of resistance displayed by Djere.
Medvedev faces world number 31 Miomir Kecmanovic next for a place in the fourth round.
The crow favourite did get his chance to speak to the French fans in their language as Wilander handed over for the end of the interview.
Medvedev’s been practicing his French. 🇫🇷#StanSportAU #RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/rxn7qX0AkJ
— Stan Sport (@StanSportAU) May 26, 2022
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