As part of an innovative effort at an ATP 500 tournament in Dubai, an attempt was made to raise the game through technology by implementing a VAR-like video review system aimed at maintaining fairness within tennis matches. Unfortunately for Daniil Medvedev however, who found himself frustrated with this technology during a match.
Medvedev made an excellent start in Dubai, beating Jan-Lennard Struff and Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard before encountering trouble against Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, where he believed his opponent may have come in contact with the net and requested a video review; only to discover that there wasn’t enough footage showing it definitively whether Perricard had or hadn’t.
This incident led to Medvedev expressing his frustration humorously in a post-match press conference. He questioned the effectiveness of a net camera costing $60,000 if it failed to provide clear evidence in such situations. Recalling an incident at the Australian Open where he received a fine for damaging a similar camera, Medvedev’s comments showcased his wit and critical viewpoint on the implementation of costly technology in the sport.
Following the match, Medvedev took to social media to share his thoughts, employing humor and irony to highlight his stance on the matter. This gesture underscored his dissatisfaction with technological glitches that impact the game’s outcomes.
Medvedev was nevertheless impressive during his visit to Dubai. Despite an unexpected hiccup in their second match against Mpetshi Perricard (6-4, 6-4), and proved his ability to deal with powerful serves while maintaining his own strong service game – qualities which led him directly into reaching the quarterfinals for the third year running.
Looking ahead, Medvedev will face Tallon Griekspoor in the quarterfinals, continuing his pursuit of his first Grand Slam since winning Rome 2023’s ATP Masters 1000 event. Medvedev continues to draw admiration with both his on-court skills as well as engaging personality off the court.