"He was on top of me" - Medvedev relieved about Rotterdam triumph v Sinner
ATP
Daniil Medvedev lost the first set against Jannik Sinner in the 2023 Rotterdam Open final, but he was able to turn the match around to win in three sets.
Sinner was very dangerous at the start of the final match in Rotterdam, but Medvedev stayed in it. That was crucial, as his opponent started struggling a bit, and the Russian won the match 5-7, 6-2, 6-2.
Speaking about his win after the match, Medvedev admitted that he was worse than Sinner at the start of the match. What mattered, though, was the result, which was victorious for the Russian player.
"It was a very tough match, I would say mentally for both of us, I think. Jannik was on top of me, especially in the first part of the first set. I managed to come back into the set even though, in my opinion, I was playing worse than him. Maybe that gave me some time to find my rhythm."
Winning a trophy this early in the season is great for Medvedev because he candidly admitted his frustration after the match to the media about the lack of good results lately.
He admitted that after losing his ranking, it was tough for him mentally. He was used to being at the top of the sport, and now, he had to grind his way back, which was challenging.
"It’s great because it’s still the beginning of the year. My third tournament of the year, and already a title. Last year I needed 12 tournaments or something like this. Beating great players, playing great here."
"Mentally it’s tough to come back after you [drop out] of the Top 10… I’m just happy to find my form and am looking forward to the next tournament and hopefully I can continue in this way"
