In a revealing post-match interview at the Shanghai Masters, Daniil Medvedev offered a candid glimpse into his recent triumph, his evolving relationship with a new coach, and the ongoing battle for mental clarity on the court.
Navigating the `Mirror Match`
The fourth round of the Shanghai Masters saw World No. 18 Daniil Medvedev secure a hard-fought victory against Learner Tien, a match he described with an intriguing analogy. “It felt a bit like playing against a mirror,” Medvedev mused after his 7/6(6), 6/7(1), 6/4 win. However, this reflection wasn`t entirely perfect.
“There`s probably something to that, though he serves a bit worse than I do,” Medvedev explained. “Perhaps if he were right-handed and played this style of tennis, it would be easier for me. I serve better than him, and we`d play the same tennis, but my serve would give me an edge. But because he`s left-handed, it puts me in uncomfortable positions.”
This tactical observation highlights Medvedev`s analytical approach, even amidst the heat of competition. The subtle nuances of handedness and serving prowess become critical factors in high-stakes matches, transforming a seemingly similar opponent into a unique challenge.
A Fresh Start with a New Team
The victory against Tien wasn`t just another win; for Medvedev, it marked a significant milestone with his new coaching team. After a season that perhaps didn`t begin as he`d hoped, there`s a tangible sense of renewal.
“I`m just happy to start winning with the new team,” he stated. He recounted an intense week of training in Monaco where his performance was “unreal – I was playing better than in all my recent matches.” The challenge, as always, is translating that practice court brilliance into match-day consistency. “It takes time to bring that onto the court in actual matches. I`m glad that with each match, I`m playing better and better. That`s the most important thing. Next season, we can hope for the best.” This measured optimism speaks to the gradual process of recalibrating performance at the elite level.
The Unpredictable Temperament: Understanding Coach Johansson
Medvedev`s on-court demeanor is as much a part of his persona as his unconventional playing style. Known for his emotional outbursts and expressive gestures, he was asked about his new coach, Thomas Johansson, adapting to these theatrics.
“We`ll see,” Medvedev responded with a smile. “I didn`t insult anyone, and I think he understands everything because he`s coached completely different players in the women`s tour, with different temperaments. Some had very strong temperaments. It`s certainly not David Goffin,” he added with a laugh, subtly poking fun at his own fiery nature compared to the famously calm Belgian. “But all the others could say something, as he himself was a player and understands everything. It wasn`t against him. I just didn`t know what to do.”
This frank admission offers a window into the mind of a professional athlete grappling with intense pressure. His emotional displays are not necessarily directed at his team or opponent, but rather a visible manifestation of his internal struggle when facing uncertainty on the court. It`s a candid moment that underscores the human element behind the athletic facade, and the necessary empathy from a coach who`s been in the trenches himself.
The Persistent Battle of the Mind
Mental fortitude has been a recurring theme in Medvedev`s season. Previously, he`d admitted his “brains aren`t allowing him to win,” and his former coach, Gilles Cervara, suggested it was “something more than mental and human. Daniil himself knows this and only he can overcome it.” When pressed on what happened mentally this year, Medvedev chose a philosophical approach.
“That`s the beauty of tennis, that you don`t know for sure,” he mused. “There can be many conjectures. I could name 10 reasons why things are this way this season, but I won`t. I could really come up with 10. That`s like excuses. But the fact is, what is, is. I`m glad I`m playing better and better.”
This refusal to dwell on past “excuses” is a potent sign of growth. Instead, Medvedev focuses squarely on the present and the tangible improvements. His path forward is clear: sustained effort. “If I continue to play like I did in Monaco in training and now, I can return to the Top 10 for a start, and then even higher. Everything in steps.”
Daniil Medvedev`s journey through the Shanghai Masters offers more than just match results. It`s a narrative of self-discovery, adaptation with a new mentor, and the relentless pursuit of peak performance, both physically and mentally. His candor paints a vivid picture of the complex world of professional tennis, where every win is a step, and every self-reflection a lesson learned.
Adrian Whitmore 
Rupert Hartwell