Medvedev advances without drama at US Open

NEW YORK: One year after a notable first-round collapse, former US Open champion Daniil Medvedev entered the second round of the tournament in Flushing Meadows on Sunday with a calm demeanor. The seventh-seeded Russian defeated Hugo Gaston of France 6-4, 6-2, 6-4 in two hours and 14 minutes. Reflecting on his progress since last week's loss to Martin Damm in Winston-Salem, Medvedev expressed satisfaction with his play, stating, "I felt like I did everything I wanted to do well. I finished the match strong. I started the match strong. I'm really glad the way I played."

Last week's match proved particularly challenging for Medvedev, who contemplated quitting tennis and picking up pickleball during an on-court interview. He faced questions about this potential career change, but remains focused on his current performance. After the match, Medvedev acknowledged that the past couple of weeks were tough, but emphasized that he managed to produce a high level of tennis. He noted that he started and finished the match well, expressing overall contentment with his play.

This scenario starkly contrasts with last year's US Open, where Medvedev lost his composure in the first round against France's Benjamin Bonzi. Angered by a photographer's unauthorized entry onto the court, Medvedev erupted in the third set, leading to a five-set loss. As a result, he was fined US$42,500 by tennis authorities. Following the match, Medvedev parted ways with his coach.