‘I Didn’t Play With Women’s Balls’ – Daniil Medvedev Contradicts With the Likes of Iga Swiatek While Voicing Support for the US Open Ball

Daniil Medvedev has had a mixed 2022 season. Although he reached the Number 1 ranking in men’s singles, he has managed to win just a solitary title this year, the ATP 250 title in Los Cabos. Further, he had to miss the Wimbledon Championships after the tournament banned Russian and Belarusian players.

The 26-year-old is currently in Cincinnati to participate in the Western and Southern Open. After his third-round victory, Medvedev talked about the balls used at the US Open Series.

Daniil Medvedev backs the balls used in Cincinnati

Recently, Iga Swiatek strongly criticized the different balls used for men and women at the US Open Series. However, Medvedev had contrasting views about it. Talking about this during the post-match press conference after his third-round victory, Medvedev said, “The only slam, really? Oh, I didn’t know. I thought it’s more tournaments where they have different balls. They usually like make it a little bit like here it’s red for women, so when you practice together, you know.”

READ MORE: VIDEO: Security Stops Heated Situation Between Daniil Medvedev and Fans After ‘Loser’ Chants

Further, he added, “I’m actually surprised it’s the only slam. I thought it’s much more, many more times like this. I didn’t play with women’s balls so I have nothing to say, I have no idea what’s the difference. Me, I like Wilson US Open balls, so if it’s because it’s different to women, I’m happy, but, yeah, not much more to say.”

Medvedev defeats Denis Shapovalov in Cincinnati

Recently, the reigning US Open champion overcame the challenge of Canada’s Denis Shapovalov in the third round of the Western and Southern Open in Cincinnati. It was a dominant performance by Medvedev, as he knocked out Shapovalov in straight sets, 7-5 7-5, in a match lasting an hour and 46 minutes.

Watch this story: When Mike Tyson supported Serena Williams for her US Open meltdown against Naomi Osaka

It is a timely return to form for the 26-year-old, who will look to defend his US Open crown later this month. In the quarterfinals in Cincinnati, Medvedev will take on the local hero, Taylor Fritz.