Medvedev Shows New Attitude in Australian Open Victory
Daniil Medvedev displayed a different side of himself at the Australian Open on Monday. The three-time finalist at Melbourne Park kept his emotions firmly under control during a straight-sets victory over Dutch qualifier Jesper de Jong. The match ended 7-5, 6-2, 7-6 (7/2) on a warm Margaret Court Arena.
A Conscious Effort to Stay Positive
The Russian player has made a deliberate decision to change his on-court behavior. "I've made a big push to try to be more positive on the court," Medvedev stated after the match. "So far I'm doing it well." This represents a significant shift for a player known for fiery outbursts in previous tournaments.
Last year at the same stage of the Australian Open, Medvedev received fines for damaging his racquet and a net camera during an emotional meltdown. This time, despite some tense moments when he was broken twice while serving for the match, he maintained his composure throughout.
Fresh Start with New Coaching Team
The world number twelve has undergone substantial changes in his professional setup. He recently parted ways with long-time coach Gilles Cervara. His current team now includes former Australian Open champion Thomas Johansson and Rohan Goetzke.
"It's a bit different so now it's a breath of fresh air," Medvedev explained about the coaching change. "I'm feeling good, I'm feeling great on court physically." The new arrangement appears to be working well as he arrived in Melbourne after winning the Brisbane International tournament.
Looking Forward, Not Backward
Medvedev prefers to focus on the present rather than dwell on past disappointments. "I don't really go too much into the past," he said. "What happened last year happened, and it's okay." Last season proved challenging with early exits at all four Grand Slam tournaments following his second-round departure in Melbourne.
The 2021 US Open champion has experienced both triumph and heartbreak at the Australian Open. He reached three of the last five finals here, falling to Novak Djokovic in 2021 and Rafael Nadal in a dramatic 2022 final. Last year, he suffered a crushing defeat to Jannik Sinner after leading by two sets.
Next Challenge Awaits
Medvedev now prepares to face French qualifier Quentin Halys in the second round. His performance against de Jong, while not completely convincing, demonstrated his commitment to maintaining a positive attitude regardless of match circumstances.
"I'm just trying to be positive on the court as I am in life, actually," Medvedev emphasized. He acknowledged that maintaining this new approach presents an ongoing challenge. "We don't know what's coming, but I'm trying."
The 29-year-old remains realistic about his career position. "I managed to finish the year like 12 or 13, which is, to be honest, it's great for many players," he noted. With his renewed mindset and fresh coaching team, Medvedev aims to make another deep run at the tournament where he has come so close to victory multiple times before.
