Daniil Medvedev and Alexander Zverev have had contrasting starts to this season. While the Russian is on the verge of becoming World Number 1, Zverev has been inconsistent this season. Further, Medvedev came close to winning his second Grand Slam title, losing to Rafael Nadal in a five-setter thriller in the summit clash.
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An unusual incident happened yesterday at the Abierto Mexicano in Acapulco, Mexico. Zverev, after his defeat, was seemingly frustrated at some of the calls made by the umpire. He vented out his frustration, smashing the chair of the umpire. Further, he had to pay heavily for his actions, getting withdrawn, from the tournament. Medvedev has come out in support of his fellow player.
Daniil Medvedev backs Alexander Zverev
The Russian was answering some questions in the press conference when a journalist asked him to comment on this controversy. Medvedev said, “To be honest, I think the way we see the situation right now when we look back, I think it’s that’s what happened to me a few times. He made a mistake, he paid for it. From what he says he understand that he made the mistake and that’s the most important. People, no matter which job, which sport, everybody makes mistakes. Somebody less, somebody makes bigger ones, maybe more times.”
Further, the US Open champion added, “I think yeah, was definitely not nice what he did but he understands it also and he already got his punishment. So I don’t see much what I can actually say about this as I say you know from my point of view, I understand when you make mistakes but you regret it and next time you try not to make.”
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Earlier, Djokovic had similar opinions on this episode. The 20-time Grand Slam champion is in Dubai to participate in the Dubai Duty-Free Tennis Championships. The Serb said that everyone is a human being and can make mistakes.
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While Zverev is out from ATP 500 Acapulco, Medvedev has progressed smoothly so far. He will face Yoshihito Nishioka in the quarterfinals. Further, a potential re-match of the Australian Open final awaits Medvedev and Rafael Nadal in the semifinals. Can the Russian claim the top spot in the ATP rankings next week? Let us know your views in the comments below.