Daniil Medvedev made an impressive opening round showing at the US Open by defeating Hugo Gaston 6-4, 6-2, 6-4 in straight sets in round one of competition. This victory was especially significant given Medvedev’s early departure at several US swing tournaments before this success at US Open; yet unexpectedly made an offhand statement about possible retirement while responding to earlier speculation concerning switching careers to pickleball.
“Unfortunately, tennis takes too much of my energy and time,” Medvedev explained during his on-court interview after the match. If not for tennis being such an intensive activity, perhaps something else like pickleball would appeal more. Unfortunately though, tennis is now my full-time job so for now – until 37 and a half – let me just enjoy my tennis play before taking another path later on in my life’s path!
Medvedev had recently drawn attention with his remarks at the Winston-Salem Open, where he withdrew from the mixed doubles event at the US Open to compete instead. Results at that tournament were disappointing as he lost in the Round of 32 to Martin Damm, 7-5, 6-3. During the match, a frustrated Medvedev expressed dissatisfaction with tennis, stating it was the worst sport in the world and even mentioned a potential career in pickleball.
“Maybe I should start a career in pickleball. Not too late. With Jock Sock… in doubles. Every sport on this planet is better [than tennis], man. Even curling right now,” he remarked during a changeover.
Despite these comments, it seems unlikely that Medvedev will be leaving tennis anytime soon. He clarified that he still enjoys playing full-time and intends to continue competing for several more years. His previous statements appeared to stem from frustration over recent early losses, especially considering he was the No. 1 seed at the Winston-Salem Open.
Coming into the US Open, expectations for Medvedev were low given his prior results. However, he successfully advanced past the first round this time, a stark contrast to last year’s tournament when he suffered a first-round defeat to Benjamin Bonzi. That match included a notorious outburst from Medvedev after Bonzi was granted a replacement first serve on match point due to a photographer stepping onto the court prematurely.
Medvedev responded to Bonzi’s victory with mockery toward his chair umpire: “He wants to go home. He doesn’t like being here; his salary comes out of match fees only!” After Bonzi won in five sets, Medvedev became visibly upset, breaking his racket on the ground before leaving with his wife from the stands – leading to him receiving an unsportsmanlike conduct fine of $42,500 from USTA officials.
Medvedev may have avoided an early exit at Flushing Meadows this year, yet how far he progresses remains to be seen.