Despite the fact that the Russian intends to make the most of the season-opening event, Daniil Medvedev admitted on Sunday that he would rather play in the mixed teams United Cup than the Adelaide International.
Medvedev stated it was disappointing
Due to the invasion of Ukraine, the world number seven from Monte Carlo and his teammates cannot participate in the ATP-WTA United Cup. Medvedev stated that while it was disappointing, he had no options.
I would like to play the Assembled Cup,” said the Adelaide third seed behind Novak Djokovic and Felix Drill Aliassime. ” We would be great top picks. However, it is what it is, and I am delighted to be participating in this tournament in Adelaide.
“Ideally, I can play the individual occasions. I only play what I can play, so I’m thrilled to be able to play Adelaide here. I intend to exhibit my best tennis.
Medvedev, a finalist at the previous two Australian Opens, will face Lorenzo Sonego of Italy in the first match.
The former world number one admitted to experiencing the typical nervousness at the beginning of the year.
“Everyone seems to be a little bit nervous, which is normal,” I believe. “It’s really special to feel this way about the first tournament of the year,” he said.
“I like playing in Australia, so really looking forward to it” Medvedev has been beaten three times by Djokovic since winning the 2021 US Open. The Serb is back in Australia after being deported for trying to enter without a Covid vaccination exemption a year ago.
The 35-year-old is competing in Adelaide and is free to attempt to win a tenth title this month at Melbourne Park.
Medvedev stated, “I’m motivated to be in the (Adelaide) semis — and if Novak is there, it’s great.”
“I don’t really care if someone else beats him. I don’t care who I play; all I want is to begin in the semifinals.”
Medvedev, who won two titles last season, said that “you never know if he’s really injured” when Nick Kyrgios pulled out of the United Cup too late. The controversial Australian had said that Kyrgios had an injury.
“I would withdraw if I was playing in the United Cup and got hurt before the tournament.”