 "Novak Djokovic echoed Daniil Medvedev's statement on future generation of tennis players. AP / Reuters")
Novak Djokovic backed Daniil Medvedev’s witty take on the up and coming stars of tennis during the ongoing 2025 Australian Open tournament in Melbourne. After Medvedev defeated Thailand’s Kasidit Samrej 6-2, 4-6, 3-6, 6-1, 6-2 to reach the second round of the Australian Open on Tuesday, the Russian hailed his opponent’s determination, saying: “If he plays like this every match.. his life can be good. Money, girls, casino… whatever."
Australian Open 2025 | Top contenders, draws, prize money, live streaming and all you need to know
Djokovic, too, was made to sweat against Portugal’s Jaime Faria, with the Serbian overcoming with a score of 6-1, 6-7 (4-7), 6-3, 6-2 to reach the third round of the season’s first Grand Slam. “In the wise words of Mr Medvedev, if the future generation plays this way they are going to have everything. Money, girls, casino," Djokovic said after the match, recalling Medvedev’s statement. “I just love that statement, I have to say it," the 24-time Grand Slam winner added.
Medvedev will face American teenager Learner Tien in the second round on Thursday, whereas Djokovic will face Czechia’s Tomas Machac on Friday. Djokovic is eyeing a record-extending 11th title in Melbourne. He had beaten I ndian-American teenager Nishesh Basavareddy in the first round.
Djokovic had gone down 4-6 in the first set against Nishesh, but bounced back to win the next three sets. Djokovic won that match with a score of 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-2.
Djokovic and Murray chat mid-match thanks to coaching pods
During his first round match against Nishesh Basavareddy, Novak Djokovic was able to chat with his new coach Andy Murray thanks to the newly-introduced coaching pods. The coaching pods have been set up at opposite corners of the court, with a maximum of four support staff members being allowed.
Djokovic said he was thrilled to have Murray on the courtside. “Obviously, thrilled to have him in my corner… I must say, it was a little bit of a strange experience to have him right courtside in my box. We played for over 20 years against each other on the highest level, and it’s great to have him on the same side of the net," he said.