On-court rivalry doesn’t necessarily have to cast a shadow on the players’ personal lives. Recent scenes ahead of the ATP Finals in Turin once again showcased how professional rivals can be something entirely separate from the personal friendship between players. Andrey Rublev was seen having a wholesome moment with his Goddaughter Alicia before stepping onto the court to face off against her father Daniil Medvedev seeking his 15th ATP Singles title.
Medvedev and Rublev have been friends since their childhood. The duo also has a long professional history where they have met each other several times in different tournaments. However, the two Russian tennis stars share a unique bond that has led Rublev to be a crucial character in Alicia’s Christening ceremony.
Rublev’s “aww” moment with childhood friend and rival Daniil’s daughter
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Daniil and Andrey were slated to face off against each other for the Turin ATP Finals. Last year, Rublev had triumphed over his colleague, making this year’s match all the more hyped. Moments ahead of the match, Rublev was seen backstage playing with Alicia Medvedev. Andrey was all smiles as he and the little one played with a tennis ball.
Alicia was being held by her mother Daria Medvedeva but the little girl wasn’t one to stay put for too long. She had a lot to say to Rublev and her mother and babbled on in undecipherable language. However, her godfather made sure all his attention was on Alicia, despite prepping his mind for the imminent clash against Medvedev.
Both Medvedev and Rublev are among the top 10 tennis stars in the world right now. Given their history, this year’s Turin ATP Finals was highly anticipated. However, Rublev’s lighthearted actions ahead of the match were pretty cute and fans couldn’t have hoped for a better beginning. Rublev lost to Medvedev in straight sets but the wholesome moment didn’t fade out to the match result.
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Some on-court reports from Daniil Medvedev and Andrey Rublev’s Turin ATP Finals
This November Turin witnessed a different Medvedev when he beat Andrey Rublev by 6-4 6-2 during the Turin ATP Finals. Andrey Rublev who ranked 5th in the world, tried to give his best fight but saw a downfall during the first half of the match. Although he pulled quite a great defense in the second half, ultimately his childhood buddy Daniil Medvedev beat him to victory.
Now this is not the first time these two tennis stalwarts met on the court this year. Previously in the Dubai Open final, Medvedev beat Rublev. Rublev also faced a defeat against his friend at the U.S. Open quarter-finals. It truly seemed like a marvelous year for Medvedev, isn’t it?
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However, despite all the on-court rivalry, these two tennis stars brought an amazing display of love and affection to the world. As a result, fans are now truly moved. What do you think?
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