Russian · Moscow, Russia · Born 11 February 1996US Open champion and world number one — the most unconventional game style at the elite level.
Daniil Medvedev was born in Moscow, Russia in 1996. He won the US Open in 2021 — defeating Novak Djokovic in the final to deny him the calendar Grand Slam — and reached the Australian Open final three times, losing twice to Djokovic and once to Jannik Sinner. He reached world number one in 2022. He won the ATP Finals three times. His playing style — flat, high-speed baseline tennis with unconventional body language and post-match behaviour that borders on performance art — has made him one of the most discussed personalities on tour. His crowd interactions — simultaneously mocking and entertaining — generated viral moments that extended tennis's reach beyond its traditional audience. He has been part of the most competitive era in men's tennis, consistently performing at Grand Slam level while being surrounded by the Federer-Nadal-Djokovic and Alcaraz-Sinner generations.
Defeating Novak Djokovic in the 2021 US Open final to prevent the Serbian from completing the calendar Grand Slam.
How They Played
Medvedev employs a defensive baseline game built around exceptional court coverage and tactical awareness. His unconventional technique includes a flat, penetrating backhand and the ability to hit winners from seemingly impossible defensive positions. He excels at neutralizing aggressive opponents through consistent depth and precise shot placement.
Lasting Impact
Medvedev helped break the dominance of the Big Three in men's tennis, becoming the first new Grand Slam champion in years. His analytical approach and mental toughness have influenced a new generation of strategic-minded players.
Career Honours
- US Open (2021)
- ATP Finals 3x
- World No.1
- Davis Cup (Russia 2021)
Russian Athletes