Daniil Medvedev recently discussed the rising popularity of Jannik Sinner in Italy, expressing that the 23-year-old deserved all the accolades and endorsements he has received. This statement came following Medvedev’s exit from the ATP Finals after a crucial defeat to Sinner in their last round-robin match.
The encounter between Medvedev and Sinner was a must-win match for the Russian, but the Italian triumphed convincingly with a 6-3, 6-4 victory. This win ensured Sinner maintained a perfect record in the round-robin stage of the ATP Finals for the second consecutive year, highlighting his dominance on the tour. Meanwhile, it marked the third occasion out of six appearances where Medvedev has failed to progress beyond the group stage in this prestigious year-end event.
During the post-match press conference, Medvedev was asked to reflect on Sinner’s popularity within Italy. He acknowledged that Sinner’s success and widespread recognition, including lucrative endorsements, were well-earned. “No, I think it’s great,” Medvedev stated, referring to Sinner’s fame and marketability. “But I would wonder if he would live in Italy how it would be because he doesn’t. It’s a little bit easier. Yeah, I mean, I think he deserves it. Like everything: the contracts, advertisements, whatever. He’s a good-looking No. 1 in the world, wins a lot of tournaments. Very young, which is always attractive.”
Medvedev’s remarks also touched on the bright future Sinner appears to have in front of him. “He’s 23. He has maybe 13, 14 years ahead of him where he can play, play, win, win. So it’s normal. I think he feels fine with it. So why should I be sorry for him?” he added, acknowledging Sinner’s potential longevity in the sport and his current status as one of tennis’s biggest stars.
Sinner’s victory over Medvedev further tilted the head-to-head record between the two players, with the Italian now leading 8-7. The 2024 season alone has seen the two players face off six times, with Sinner dominating most of their encounters. Medvedev has managed just one victory over the Italian this year, which came in the quarterfinals at Wimbledon. In that match, Medvedev edged out Sinner in a marathon five-setter, 6-7(7), 7-6(4), 6-4, 2-6, 6-3, securing a spot in the semifinals of the grass-court Grand Slam for the second consecutive year.
However, Sinner’s overall performance against Medvedev in 2024 has been nothing short of stellar. Their battle in the Australian Open final saw Medvedev initially take control, winning the first two sets. But Sinner’s resilience shone through as he mounted a stunning comeback to win 3-6, 3-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-3, capturing his maiden Grand Slam title. This victory marked a significant milestone in Sinner’s career and further solidified his reputation as one of the sport’s elite competitors.
The two players also clashed in the US Open quarterfinals, where Sinner once again demonstrated his superior form, defeating Medvedev 6-2, 1-6, 6-1, 6-4. In fact, throughout the 2024 season, Sinner has consistently bested Medvedev, winning all but one of their matches in straight sets.
Reflecting on the significance of his victory over Medvedev in Turin, Sinner expressed gratitude to the fans and emphasized the importance of each match as he advanced in the tournament. The Italian, now firmly established as the World No. 1, noted how the ATP Finals held special meaning for him and how each win helped to build momentum for the next challenge. “We have played many times this year and know how to challenge each other. He served very well today, but I managed to stay focused,” Sinner said. “I’m happy with how I played, and now it’s time to shift focus to the semifinals.”
Sinner’s next match will see him compete in the ATP Finals semifinal against the runner-up of the John Newcombe Group. With the form he has displayed throughout the season and his consistent performances against top-tier opponents like Medvedev, expectations are high for the young Italian to continue his impressive run and possibly capture another major title. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how far Sinner can go, given his relentless drive, skill, and composure under pressure.
Medvedev, despite his disappointment at exiting the ATP Finals early, spoke with respect and acknowledgment of Sinner’s capabilities and impact on the sport. The rivalry between these two elite players promises to continue captivating tennis enthusiasts in the years to come, as they both strive to leave their mark on the sport’s history.