Daniil Medvedev enjoying Jannik Sinner rivalry despite another loss

Daniil Medvedev, aged 28, expressed his enjoyment of the intensifying rivalry with world number one Jannik Sinner, 23, despite suffering a defeat in the quarterfinals of the US Open on Wednesday.

This year, the Russian has faced Sinner four times, experiencing losses in the Australian Open final and the Miami Masters semi-finals, while achieving victory in the Wimbledon quarterfinals.

"Recently, it has been challenging for me, but in comparison to some of the matches I played against him last year when he began to gain the upper hand, I felt I was making the right moves. Unfortunately, I was unable to execute them effectively," stated Medvedev, currently ranked fifth in the world, following his defeat with scores of 6-2, 1-6, 6-1, 6-4.

"I appreciate it. Having significant rivalries like this motivates me to improve, and while I may lose at times, I also win. I will strive to perform better in the future, which is all I can do."

Medvedev maintains a slight edge in their head-to-head record at 7-6, although Sinner has claimed victory in six of their last seven encounters.

"He ranks among the best players globally, and he rightfully holds that position," Medvedev remarked.

"Competing against him is challenging. He has a keen sense of the game and often selects the appropriate shot at critical moments."

Medvedev noted that his performances, including reaching the Australian Open final, advancing to the fourth round of the French Open, the semi-finals at Wimbledon, and the quarterfinals at Flushing Meadows, indicate a "quite good" year in Grand Slam tournaments.

The 28-year-old, whose sole major title remains his 2021 US Open victory, emphasized his commitment to working diligently to bridge the gap with the top players, acknowledging that the landscape of competition has evolved since the beginning of his career.

"There have always been formidable opponents," he stated. "Previously, it was players like Rafa (Nadal), Roger (Federer), and Novak (Djokovic); now it includes Carlos (Alcaraz), Jannik, and others."

"One must practice rigorously, seek to enhance their game, and aim to overcome them."