In-form Russian Daniil Medvedev has spoken on his title showdown with Austrian Dominic Thiem in the ATP Finals.
Medvedev, who upset Rafael Nadal to storm into the final of the season-ending event, said it’s good for tennis that he and Thiem will be vying for the title.
Daniil Medvedev, Dominic Thiem starting to leave their mark in men’s tennis
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He said it also points to how they are starting to leave their mark on men’s tennis.
Speaking ahead of the title clash on Sunday, Medvedev said, “I think it’s super for tennis. We are starting to get to take our marks.”
— Daniil Medvedev (@DaniilMedwed) November 22, 2020
Rating his opponent highly, the big Russian said Thiem, on current form, would prove to be a tough competitor for him in the final.
“Dominic won his first Slam (US Open) and is playing unbelievable tennis right now. (It’s) not going to be easy,” Medvedev said.
Medvedev holds hundred percent record at ATP Finals 2020
With four wins out of four, the Russian is the only player to have a hundred percent record in the tournament.
He said he hopes to keep his good form going as he would need every bit of it to tame the Austrian.
“Hopefully I can play good like this. I, for sure, can cause him some troubles,” Medvedev said.
Their last meeting came at the semi-final of the US Open, with the Russian going down to Thiem.
Thank you so much @DjokerNole ! Such big honour to compete with you at the highest level 🎾 https://t.co/TTSe5cFMX6
— Dominic Thiem (@ThiemDomi) November 21, 2020
A great game of tennis awaits: Medvedev on final with Thiem
A finalist last year, Thiem opened his campaign with a win over defending champion Stefanos Tsitsipas.
He knocked out top-seed Novak Djokovic in an edge-of-seat thriller to make the title round.
Medvedev said he was mindful of the threat that the Austrian poses to his final chances.
“Dominic (is) an amazing player. I think it’s going to be great tennis tomorrow,” the Russian said.
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The finalists have known each other since their junior days and even had a practice-hit together in London.
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Trailing by a set and down a break, the Russian dished out scintillating tennis to turn the tables on Nadal.
The loss condemned the Spaniard to yet another barren run at the event in his 10th attempt.