Dominic Thiem convinced of Medvedev's further major victories
Dominic Thiempaid tribute to Daniil Medvedev after his outstanding triumph at the US Open. And prophesied a few more major titles for the Russian.
by Michael Rothschädl
last edit: Sep 17, 2021, 09:30 pm
Somehow, on September 12th, things came full circle. Daniil Medvedev, who was a finalist in a major event for the third time in his career, demystified Novak Djokovic a few steps from his "Grand Slam" in the final of the US Open and was crowned major champion for the first time in his career.
So the story of the last Grand Slam tournament of the calendar year 2021, things looked different at the first major event of the season, when the Russian had to bow to the dominance of his Serbian opponent Down Under. At that time, the 25-year-old was seen by some as a slight favorite because of Djokovic's unconvincing performance, but in Flushing Meadows the majority were convinced that Djokovic would safely end the historic path to the "Grand Slam".
Thiem sees a special ability in Medvedev
The way in which Daniil Medvedev destroyed the industry leader's huge party in New York City made a lasting impression on the tennis scene. Dominic Thiem, in whose footsteps Medvedev followed with his victory at the US Open, sprinkled roses on the Russian: "I have no doubt that Daniil will win more Grand Slam tournaments," the Tennishead platform quoted the Austrian as saying.
While the Lichtenwörther had to give up a bit after his first major title and had to end the 2021 season due to a wrist injury before the US Open, his Russian opponent topped up his title account this season. "For me he is the best representative of the younger generation. He knows how to win games, he knows how to prepare for the big games," emphasized the 28-year-old.
That is precisely the reason why, according to Thiem, the Russian is definitely something to be asked about his pursuers Zverev and Tsitsipas: "He does not get restless or nervous," added Thiem. "He is one step further than Stefanos Tsitsipas or Alexander Zverev." The 2022 goal will of course be to take the lead again in the direct Grand Slam duel Daniil Medvedev.