Medvedev Criticizes Umpire, Mentions Nadal in Tien Match Remarks

Daniil Medvedev recently showcased his fiery temperament during the fourth round of the Shanghai Masters. Facing 19-year-old Learner Tien, Medvedev experienced intense frustration amidst the humid Shanghai climate. As he battled cramping issues, he also struggled with the ATP’s regulations on medical timeouts.

Frustration on the Court

In a crucial moment at the end of the second set, Medvedev found himself in a heated exchange with umpire Mohamed Lahyani. He lost the second set in a tiebreak, scoring 6-7 [1-7], which fueled his anger.

• Medvedev voiced his displeasure with a time violation issued by Lahyani.
• He expressed his frustration by invoking his experiences with Rafael Nadal, claiming he had waited for Nadal for extended periods during their matches.

Comments on Nadal’s Serve Timing

Medvedev’s rant included specific criticisms of Nadal’s play style. He recounted how, despite serving and waiting for his opponent, Nadal had rarely been penalized for timing violations. He stated, “I am going to call a time violation on the first occasion,” when serving against future opponents.

The energetic exchange concluded with another official attempting to explain advancements in technology since Nadal’s era. However, Medvedev remained unconvinced.

Progress in the Shanghai Masters

Despite the controversy, Medvedev bounced back to secure a win in the third set, finishing with a score of 6-4. This victory advanced him to the quarterfinals of the Shanghai Masters.

Medvedev and Nadal’s Rivalry

A glance at Medvedev’s match history against Nadal reveals their competitive rivalry. They have faced each other six times between 2019 and 2022, with Nadal holding a 5-1 lead in their encounters.

As Medvedev prepares for his next match against Alex de Minaur on October 10, he looks to build on his momentum in the Shanghai Masters after a tumultuous round against Tien.