Daniil Medvedev is currently navigating a pivotal juncture in his career, particularly after a challenging 2025 season that saw him drop to No. 18 in the PIF ATP Rankings. As he prepares for the Lynk & Co Hangzhou Open, Medvedev’s focus has shifted toward revitalizing his performance and seizing opportunities to reclaim his spot among the elite in tennis.
A significant change has accompanied this shift as Medvedev has recently parted ways with his longstanding coach Gilles Cervara. This decision came on the heels of his early exit from the US Open, where he lost to Benjamin Bonzi in the opening round. In an interview prior to the Hangzhou Open, Medvedev shared his insights about working with new coaches Thomas Johansson and Rohan Goetzke. He expressed enthusiasm about embarking on what he described as “an interesting new project in my career.”
Medvedev’s candid remarks reveal the introspective nature of his approach at this stage. “It’s not been an easy decision,” he acknowledged, highlighting the challenging dynamics of professional sports and the necessity for adaptation and evolution. “But I’m happy to try with them for the remainder of the season and then for the next season; I’m going to see how it goes.” His willingness to embrace change reflects an understanding that growth often comes from challenging moments.
Returning to the court after a short break, Medvedev emphasized the importance of mental and physical recharge. He mentioned that he did not pick up a racket for approximately two weeks following the US Open, a strategic move designed to reset his mind and body. “I had a very good week of practice last week. I played some of my best tennis this year, maybe my best tennis,” he stated with caution but optimism.
Training in Monte-Carlo, Medvedev embraced an intense practice regime to prepare for the upcoming Asian Swing. The season has seen him struggle, with a record of 26 wins and 18 losses, highlighting the inconsistencies that have plagued his game throughout the year. However, his recent practice sessions have reignited a sense of hope, suggesting that a return to form may be on the horizon. “If I’m going to be able to [reproduce this performance] on the court,” he noted, “I’m going to be able to win tournaments or play good tennis, and that’s most important for me.”
As Medvedev gears up for his debut match against either qualifier Nishesh Basavareddy or veteran Marin Cilic, anticipation surrounds his potential resurgence. His second-seeded ranking at the Hangzhou Open underscores the recognition of his talent and the expectations that accompany it. Upcoming matches will provide an opportunity for him to demonstrate the effectiveness of his new coaching arrangement and validate the adjustments he has made in his training and approach.
The tennis community is keenly observing these developments, as Medvedev’s journey unfolds against a backdrop of aspiration and competitive resolve. The question of whether he can convert this “interesting new project” into tangible success remains central to his narrative this season. His candid reflections serve as inspiration not only for himself but also for many athletes facing personal and professional challenges.
In conclusion, Daniil Medvedev stands at a crucial crossroads in his career. By embracing new coaching relationships and taking time to realign his focus, he is poised to embark on this new chapter with renewed strength and clarity. The upcoming tournaments will reveal whether this strategic change will help him reclaim his position among the tennis world’s elite. As fans and analysts await his performance in Hangzhou, the plot thickens, adding a layer of intrigue and excitement to Medvedev’s ongoing journey in professional tennis.
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