Medvedev finds ATP’s decision “more logical” than Wimbledon’s one

Asked about his position on the points removal from Wimbledon by the ATP, Daniil Medvedev did not say who is right and wrong between the Tour and the Grand Slam tournament. But he said enough to give you an idea about his actual view

Russia’s Daniil Medvedev in action during his fourth round match at Wimbledon Image Credit: AI / Reuters / Panoramic

Cédric Rouquette

May 24, 2022

He’s one of the hottest names in conversation since Wimbledon decided to exclude players from Russia and Belarus as a consequence of the Ukraine invasion by the Russian troops. Daniil Medvedev will be denied an opportunity to play on grass in London but he will probably become No 1 again if the ATP Tour sticks to its decision to remove points from the tournament.

Asked his position in a context where all players are impacted by the decision and upset at not being consulted, Medvedev made a real Medvedev answer, softly political but letting everyone know his feelings.

“When I read the FAQ, on why the ATP took their decision, I founded what they say very logical”, said Daniil Medvedev, during a press conference on Tuesday, after beating Facundo Bagnis in the first round of the Roland-Garros.

The Russian added: “This is what I didn’t find in Wimbledon’s explanations. I’m not saying one’s decision is right, but at least, so far, when they explain it, I found the ATP more logical.”

If I’m No 1 because I can’t play it, of course, I’ll be gutted. But it is what it is, I can’t change one’s decision
Daniil Medvedev

The ATP wrote in their FAQ : “Our sport is built upon merit-based tournament entry and a level playing field for all players, free from discrimination. It was also important to avoid setting a precedent of unilateral decision-making by events. Our Tour can only operate and thrive as a viable sport under shared principles of governance.”

Medvedev still ready to play Wimbledon

Asked about his plans, the No 2 seed added that he was still keen on playing Wimbledon if any change happens.

Medvedev added : “I love playing on grass, I will play on grass after Roland-Garros (three tournaments outside UK, editor’s note). If I cannot, I will prepare for the next tournaments and follow what happens”.

Medvedev also knows he will probably be No 1 in the world, all things considered, if Novak Djokovic is not able to defend his 2,000 points from Wimbledon 2021.

“If I’m No 1 because I can’t play it, of course, I’ll be gutted. But it is what it is, I can’t change one’s decision,” Daniil Medvedev concluded.