An unexpected ending to the game that, naturally, no one wanted. Daniil Medvedev retired at the end of the second set in the match against Novak Djokovic, valid for the Astana ATP 500 semifinal. After losing the tie-break, the Russian raised the white flag almost out of nowhere and handed victory to the Serbian, to the general astonishment of the crowd.
At first, the reason for the Muscovite’s withdrawal was not fully understood, who later explained what happened on the pitch at a press conference: «It is the second time in my life that I have withdrawn in this way due to a muscle strain.» .
On the second point of the tiebreaker I felt a strange little click in my adductor. At first I thought maybe it was just a cramp, but after the point I thought it was something more serious, «he said in front of the media.
Daniil’s statements were very forceful to try to make people understand the injury he was suffering: «During the tie-break I felt I could play five or ten more points, but that’s enough. I could have played one more set but I probably would have «. he lost a year and a half, instead of a month,” he added.
Medvedev explained how the path of retirement was the only viable one: «I really have no idea what is correct. If I had won, I would not have played the final in all probability. I said to myself: ‘Ok, I just have to try to score some points’ If I had managed to win I wouldn’t have been able to do anything, I would have retired.
My congratulations to Novak, who is still in great shape. Good luck for the final act”, concluded the Russian.
Djokovic wants to finish the season well
Speaking on the ‘Advantage Connors’ podcast recently, boxing legend Mike Tyson was asked about the players he followed on tour.
«Novak Djokovic, definitely, and Federer. Speaking of Djokovic, he’s recovered from all those injuries,» Tyson said. «You know, I love Djokovic personally, but I’m just a big fan of Federer. When he was at his best, he was always moving in the air.
He is smooth. He is very smooth. Nadal was everywhere. He is a great player, but he doesn’t look very good playing. Federer is smooth and very elegant. Novak Djokovic is my favorite right now. If he’s okay, I really like watching him.
He’s my favorite because the way he bounced back from injury and beat guys like Nadal and Federer is unbelievable. He is a true fighter,” Tyson said.
