Daniil Medvedev Reacts to Being the Favorite Player of John McEnroe at Australian Open 2021

Following a tough five-set victory over Filip Krajinovic in the third round, Daniil Medvedev is through to the second week of the Australian Open 2021. His style of play is unique, and thus many legends are big fans of his game. One such legend is John McEnroe.

McEnroe said that Medvedev is one of his favorite players to watch. And reacting to the compliment, Medvedev expressed his gratitude and called McEnroe an idol.

“Yeah, for sure. I mean, when John says some good things about me it just makes me happy because when I was, I couldn’t watch him play I was too young, but he’s an idol, for many, many kids.”

Such an endorsement ahead of the round of 16 will only boost the Russian star’s confidence.

Daniil Medvedev on what he inferred from John McEnroe’s comments

In his post-match interview, Medvedev was brimming with positivity and said that if legends were speaking good about him, it means he is doing the right things. Medvedev who is pursuing his maiden Grand Slam is certainly doing the right things. He did not get flustered despite surrendering his two-set lead and got the job done.

“He’s a legend of our sport. And I mean, what else can I say when somebody like him says something good about you means you’re doing things right.”

McEnroe had described Medvedev as a “chess master”. And his old school style and strategic play flattered the American.

“I’d like to see a guy like Medvedev, I think he’s like a chess master to me. He’s basically my favorite guy to watch now because he just plays like old school a little bit. He’s strategizing, he’s thinking ahead. These are the type of guys that we need and that we’re going to be seeing.” 

In Australia, Medvedev has remained unbeaten with an ATP Cup triumph already in his kitty. Furthermore, with his third-round victory, the Russian finds himself in the second week of the Australian Open for the third time in a row.

More importantly, Medvedev has extended his win streak to 17. During this streak, he has won the Paris Masters, ATP Finals, and the ATP Cup. Now, he is en route to a possible Aussie Open triumph as well. Hence, there is no doubt over why seven-time Grand Slam champion, John McEnroe, is a fan of Medvedev.

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