Former US Open champion Daniil Medvedev admits that he would rather be playing in the inaugural United Cup ahead of the Australian Open later this month.
Medvedev and all other Russian players are currently suspended from participating in team events run by the tennis’ governing bodies. The ban came into effect last March in response to Russia launching their military operation against Ukraine. Belarus, whose government is accused of backing Russia, has also been banned from competition.
It is a frustrating situation for Monaco-based Medvedev who says he is disappointed but accepts there is nothing he can do. Rafael Nadal, who beat the former world No.1 in last year’s Australian Open final, is playing in the United Cup, as well as two-time Grand Slam finalist Casper Ruud.
“I would definitely prefer to play the United Cup,” Medvedev told reporters on Sunday.
“We would definitely be good favourites. But it is what it is, and I’m happy to be here in Adelaide playing in this tournament.
“I completely understand why we are not playing Davis Cup or United Cup and team competitions where we would represent our country.
“Hopefully, I can play the individual events. I play what I can play, so here I can play Adelaide, and I’m really happy about it. I want to show my best tennis.”
The 26-year-old will begin his 2023 season at the Adelaide International which will be headlined by Novak Djokovic who is playing in Australia for the first time since getting deported by the government less than 12 months ago. The two players could clash in the semi-finals in Adelaide which will be their 13th Tour meeting. Djokovic currently leads their head-to-head 8-4.
“I’m motivated to be in the (Adelaide) semis – and if it’s Novak there, it’s great,” Medvedev said.
“If it’s somebody else who beats him, I don’t care much. I just want to be in the semi-finals to start, and I don’t care who I play.”
Other players to look out for in Adelaide include Felix Auger-Aliassime who won three consecutive titles in October. Rising star Holger Rune, Jannik Sinner and Andrey Rublev are also taking part.
Medvedev is hoping to improve on his 2022 performance when he won 45 out of 64 matches played on the Tour. However, he is currently on an eight-match losing streak against top-10 players.
Medvedev will play Lorenzo Sonego in the first round.
