Daniil Medvedev is on a roll, having made it to his fifth consecutive final at the Miami Masters. Despite admitting that clay is his least favorite surface, Medvedev says he will still try his best during the upcoming European clay season.
Medvedev’s victory over Karen Khachanov in the Miami Masters semifinals secured his fifth consecutive final, following his appearances in Rotterdam, Doha, Dubai, and Indian Wells. Although he’s been in great form over the past month and a half, Medvedev recognizes the challenges that lie ahead with the start of the clay season in Europe.
“I think I made six finals [in a row] in 2019, so I have some margin,” Medvedev said in a post-match interview. “It’s a pity it is clay season next up, but I am going to try. I am really happy with my results so far but it is not over. I have to believe in myself. I know I am capable of winning big titles. I know I can play well and beat anybody.”
Medvedev is currently ranked No. 2 in the world and has his sights set on winning his first Grand Slam title. His run of consecutive finals puts him in good stead, and he believes he has what it takes to win against the best players in the world.
“For sure, Carlos [Alcaraz] is on fire right now, but you can’t win 100 matches in a row, you can win maybe 40 or 45, whatever Novak [Djokovic] did. At one moment, someone is going to put the water on the fire. It might be Sinner today, it might be me on Sunday, it might be someone else next tournament. You have to believe in yourself. You have to try your best. I am going to enjoy their match and be prepared for the winner.”
Medvedev is scheduled to begin his clay season at the Monte Carlo Masters, which starts on April 9th. Although he hasn’t had much success on clay, with his only notable result being a semifinal appearance in Monte Carlo in 2019, Medvedev remains optimistic about his chances.
“I am going to try my best,” he said. “I am not saying I am going to win it, but I am going to try my best, and we will see what happens.”
With his impressive run of form and unwavering belief in himself, Medvedev is definitely one to watch in the upcoming clay season. Fans and pundits alike will be eagerly anticipating his performance in Monte Carlo and beyond.