Facing the 3-time Australian Open finalist is no walk in the park. Especially when that player is former World No. 1 Daniil Medvedev. That’s the challenge Kasidit Samrej is experiencing at the Rod Laver Arena right now. After losing the first set, Samrej powered through as Medvedev struggled with his forehand and even delivered a double fault, allowing Samrej to win the second set. The 23-year-old continued to capitalize on Medvedev’s mistakes in the third set, but the former World No. 1 fought back, reclaiming control in the fourth with back-to-back aces. Building the tension of a thrilling match.

But as they headed into the fifth set, fatigue hit Samrej hard. At the end of the fourth set, he called for a medical timeout due to cramps in his left thigh. Quick to respond, the medical team administered pickle juice, responding to which an X user humorously noted, “Poor guy playing Medvedev is cramping (we’ve seen this from the kids before against the biggies). Doctor gives him… the thing. ‘Tastes like pickles.’ LOLOL Makes him gargle it. This sounds … disgusting.”

According to research, pickle juice is said to help relieve cramps by replenishing electrolytes and triggering a quick neuromuscular response—a zesty remedy many athletes swear by! But for those who aren’t fans of the taste, it’s certainly a tough experience at such a high-stakes event.

In the end, Medvedev capitalized on this moment to win the fifth set. Taking Samrej down by 6-2, 4-6, 3-6, 6-1, 6-2 and making his way to the next round to face Learner Tien. He’s well on his way to the top. This win certainly boosts his momentum, especially considering he missed practice sessions leading up to the tournament to welcome his second child this year—a personal highlight for him.

Medvedev makes an adorable announcement of new family addition

While many wondered why Daniil Medvedev was absent ahead of the Australian Open, the pro came back with the best answer. On January 7, he shared a heartwarming photo on Instagram, showcasing himself cradling the newborn while his elder daughter, Alisa, sat beside him. He captioned the post, “Happy 2025 ❤️,” radiating joy in the image.

The tennis community quickly rallied around the post, with congratulations pouring in from fellow players like Stan Wawrinka and Flavio Cobolli, who filled the comments with red heart emojis. Even former WTA star Garbine Muguruza chimed in with a sweet “Congrats,” highlighting the camaraderie within the sport. Medvedev’s personal life has been a source of joy for him and this new life update shows things are going well for him.

As Medvedev heads into the R2 as the fifth seed, all eyes are on him to deliver another spectacular performance. Having already been a finalist at the 2024, 2022, and 2021 Australian Open editions, there’s no saying he can’t do it. Who knows? He may even clinch his first AO title this year, fourth time’s a charm, right?