Russian tennis star Daniil Medvedev is one of the more controversial players on tour, as he is often prone to emotional outbursts during his matches that often go viral.
However, the former World No.1 has attributed his fiery nature to an unspoken aspect of his game, his competitive drive. When focused, Medvedev gives everything he has and has participated in some epic clashes during his rise to the top.
The 2021 US Open champion looked impressive in his second round win at the ongoing Qatar Open. Medvedev brushed past Belgian Zizou Bergs on Wednesday, recording a 6-2 6-1 victory as he booked his spot in the next round.
The Moscow native was in a good mood following his match, as he addressed his on-court interview with intensity and some of his trademark humor.
"What’s the most enjoyable thing about your tennis life at the moment?" asked the interviewer. "You’re battling, scrapping, and you’re a dad of two young kids."
“Competition. Competition is a drug," revealed Medvedev. "Competition is adrenaline. A lot of things I do even outside of tennis is a competition. Sometimes video games. Sometimes something less. Sometimes arguing with my wife who’s right.
"Competition is my life. I love it. Other than that, it’s gonna be tough to find more things to enjoy when you have two kids and when you’ve already played some years. Competition is the most important for me."
Awaiting Medvedev in the quarterfinals is Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime, who had a walkover victory over Marseille runner-up Hamad Medjedovic following the Serbian's withdrawal.
3️⃣0️⃣0️⃣ HARDCOURT WINS❗@DaniilMedwed has stormed to the milestone *300th* hardcourt win of his career, defeating Zizou Bergs, 6-2 6-1, to move into the quarterfinals in Doha. 🔥
— TENNIS (@Tennis) February 19, 2025
Medvedev is the FIRST man born in 1996 or later—or even 1992 or later—to reach 300 hardcourt wins: