Daniil Medvedev Compares Mackenzie McDonald’s Style to Roger Federer at Australian Open 2021

Daniil Medvedev is always a treat to watch for all the audible self-talk that he engages in. That didn’t change during his third-round 6-3 6-3 4-6 3-6 6-0 victory over Filip Krajinovic. It was a match with no crowd, but it was an impressive spectacle, anyway.

The Serbian 28th seed made a great comeback after two-sets down to take advantage of a visibly frustrated Medvedev. However, he lost all that rhythm in the final set and blew away an otherwise courageous performance.

Daniil Medvedev showed ‘he is watching’

In the post-game on-court interview, the 4th seeded Russian had some interesting responses to the questions. First, he revealed how his coach left early because he knew Daniil was sure to win. Second, he praised his fourth-round opponent by saying, “He plays Roger style”.

Medvedev‘s third-round victory was also his first-ever win in a five-setter, and that came in style. Throughout the match, even when he was leading 2-0, the Russian was losing his calm whenever he lost a point.

He had Daria Medvedev in the stands as the sole support whilst battling with the frustration over the beeping machine attached to the net, among other things. However, after taking some medical treatment, the star player won the decisive set in a jiffy. 

Also recommended – WATCH: Coach Gilles Cervara Leaves Daniil Medvedev’s Box After Disappointing Set at Australian Open 2021

Who is the Russian’s next opponent?

Mackenzie McDonald is an American player who upset the 22nd seed Borna Coric in four sets to advance at AO 2021. His most notable recent game came against Rafael Nadal in the second round of French Open 2020. Although he lost it 1-6 0-6 3-6 to the King of Clay, it gave him some exposure in playing the big guys.

Mackenzie has a controlling forehand and can hit very rough flat punches. Perhaps this is why Daniil compared him with Roger Federer in the first place. The 25-year-old American even responded to his upcoming opponent’s praise. 

His third-round win over Lloyd Harris showed that he can play big serves and that he will put up a good fight against the hot-headed Russian. So what do you think, can Mackenzie pull an upset here? Let us know in the comments.

Read also – Daniil Medvedev Joins Federer, Nadal and Djokovic in an Incredible Stat