Russian tennis star Daniil Medvedev has been talking about a mindful approach to the game, focusing on self-improvement on the court to gain better control over his emotions.
He explains that working with his former mental coach has helped him grow as a person, with benefits that extend well beyond the service line. The gains include a maturity that translates into better performances on court, helping him win titles and achieve stronger results overall.
Medvedev emphasizes that this is a lifelong journey. His aim is to be remembered not just for moments of frustration but also for the constructive aspects of his play and his character. He notes that the work is ongoing and essential to his career progression, a sentiment he has shared in discussions with Championship.com.
At the Masters Series event currently taking place in the United States, specifically at the Indian Wells tournament, Medvedev is recalled for a memorable encounter with Belarusian rival Ilya Ivashko. In that exchange, Medvedev momentarily paused a match to address a broadcast issue, choosing to take a quick break instead of continuing under the immediate pressure of pace. The moment highlighted his willingness to navigate on-court challenges with a plan, even when the setting felt tense to him.
In a candid reflection before returning to play, Medvedev spoke about the tempo on the court. He noted that his strategic approach sometimes means slowing the pace deliberately to align with the speed of the match. He described the court as a factor in his timing, indicating that he values measured play and a patient buildup rather than rushing through points. The referee advised a calmer approach to speed, a reminder that pros are expected to manage pace and composure on every surface. Medvedev responded by reaffirming his stance on hardcourts and the specific conditions he faces, emphasizing that court characteristics should not dictate mood or behavior. His focus remained on executing his game plan with discipline and consistency. (Citation: Championship.com)
Additionally, the broader tennis world has been watching how players from Russia and Belarus navigate major events like Wimbledon and other UK tournaments. The British Lawn Tennis Association has outlined participation guidelines that affect these players, signaling how the sport continues to adapt to changing international contexts. This evolving landscape underscores the importance of mental resilience, adaptability, and compliance with tournament rules for athletes competing across multiple surfaces and venues. (Citation: Championship.com)