Medvedev, about his match with Alcaraz: "I believe he has a good opportunity"

Streaming W100 Charlottesville live tennis

🎾 Mary Stoiana vs Anastasia Tikhonova

1. Sign up with Bet365 here
2. Make your first deposit of at least €5
3. Go to the “Live” section and watch every match

Watch the match on Bet365

 PUBLICIDAD

Register at bet365, deposit €5 or more into your account and you will receive 100% of your eligible deposit in Bet Credits (up to €100). New customers only. Terms apply. Winnings do not include the value of Bet Credits. Maximum prizes, game restrictions, time limits and terms apply. Registration required.

With his morale intact and confidence sky-high, Daniil Medvedev will face the ultimate challenge of playing against Carlos Alcaraz in the semifinals of Indian Wells 2026. This matchup promises to be another thrilling episode in the intense rivalry between the Russian and the Spaniard. After a controversial victory over Jack Draper, Medvedev appeared at a press conference ready to share his thoughts.

Renewed excitement and a level of play reminiscent of his best times are the ingredients fueling optimism around Daniil Medvedev. It seems like he is rediscovering his essence and feeling good about himself once again. Knocking on the door of the top 10 persistently, Medvedev has regained the consistency in his baseline game and the magical balance between solidity and aggressiveness that makes him a tough opponent for anyone. During the press conference, he touched on the controversial situation with Jack Draper and the upcoming clash with Carlos Alcaraz in the semifinals of Indian Wells 2026.

This is what Medvedev said before facing Alcaraz in Indian Wells 2026

Clarifying the controversy with Jack Draper

The bizarre and controversial situation that unfolded at a crucial moment of the match, which could have been pivotal for Medvedev to win in straight sets, triggered a deep displeasure from the British player, who made his feelings known to Daniil on the court. Medvedev was asked about it and spoke candidly about all that transpired, viewing it with a clear mind.

"Now that I have more information, I acknowledge that I should have requested the review earlier than I did, without waiting for the point to end. Nevertheless, his movements distracted me. You can see I could do much better on my drive. I asked the umpire what I should have done, and she allowed me to request the video review; then she made the decision. Was I distracted a lot? No. Was I slightly distracted? Yes. Was it enough for them to give me the point? I don't know," he said.

"I have a good relationship with Jack. I don't think this incident influenced the outcome. In fact, I told the chair umpire that if she didn't consider the distraction enough, then it should be 15-15 and we keep playing. I don't feel good about what happened, but I also don't think I cheated. There have been decisions in my career that have harmed me, so getting one in my favor is okay," stated the Russian.

Feelings with his coaching team

Asked about the most significant changes in his tennis and mentality since parting ways with Gilles Cervara and joining his current coaching team led by Thomas Johansson, Medvedev was clear. "There haven't been many changes in terms of tennis because I know what I need to do to play well, but having a different perspective. I needed a change, and it's working wonderfully. I also think it's great to know that he was an elite tennis player because it helps me understand things that happen to me," he explained.

Expectations for his battle with Alcaraz

They have faced each other 8 times, with a favorable 6-2 record for the Spaniard, and Medvedev has not beaten him since the semifinals of the US Open 2023. "Right now, I feel that I'm playing excellent tennis. I don't want to jump to conclusions saying it's the best tennis of my life, but the fact that the court here is slightly faster and the balls are different makes me think that I have a great opportunity to showcase my best performance against Carlos. I know he is the toughest possible opponent, alongside Sinner, and I'll need to give my best to win," expressed an excited Daniil Medvedev about his progress in Indian Wells 2026.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Medvedev, sobre su duelo con Alcaraz: "Creo que tenga una buena oportunidad"