Remember that time a friendly tennis practice turned into a full-blown rivalry? Daniil Medvedev opens up about the lingering tension with fellow US Open competitor Taylor Fritz, following a contentious cheating accusation. Their dynamic on the court is definitely one to watch, but what truly happened behind the scenes?
The intense world of professional tennis often sees rivalries ignite not just on the grand stage of tournaments, but also in the more private settings of practice courts. One such enduring tension has been a long-standing contention between Russian tennis star Daniil Medvedev and American competitor Taylor Fritz, a rivalry that has its roots in a surprising accusation of cheating during a practice session years ago, casting a shadow over their professional relationship.
The incident in question dates back to around 2018 or 2019, when both players were still establishing themselves on the ATP Tour. They often practiced together, even calling their own lines during drills, a common practice among pros preparing for major events like the US Open. What should have been a routine, uncompetitive hitting session, however, quickly turned contentious, laying the groundwork for a lasting strain between the two highly-ranked tennis players.
According to Medvedev, the practice session took a sour turn when Fritz, visibly frustrated, accused him of making questionable line calls. This accusation, seemingly minor in isolation, escalated into a significant point of contention, suggesting a deeper breakdown in trust and sportsmanship. The unresolved nature of this spat resurfaced publicly during a press conference at last year’s US Open, confirming that the initial friction had never truly dissipated.
During the conference, when probed about instances of cheating in practice, Daniil Medvedev openly shared this “funny story,” albeit with a hint of underlying seriousness. He recalled the specific details, emphasizing that at the time, neither player had reached their current prominence. Medvedev, known for his candidness, admitted to his general honesty on the court but conceded that sometimes, in the heat of a fast-paced game, a ball might not be seen perfectly.
The full extent of Fritz’s frustration became clear to Medvedev indirectly. His then-girlfriend, now wife, overheard Fritz discussing the practice with his coach. It was during this conversation that Fritz reportedly branded Medvedev a “cheat,” a stark accusation that undoubtedly impacted the nascent relationship between the two tennis players.
Despite the initial animosity, Daniil Medvedev clarified their current standing, stating, “We’re still not friends, but I think we’re in a good relationship.” This nuanced statement reflects a professional respect that has evolved over time, even if a close friendship remains elusive. It highlights the unique dynamics within the ATP Tour, where fierce competitors must often navigate personal differences while maintaining a professional decorum.
This ongoing tennis rivalry serves as a compelling subplot whenever the two stars clash at major tournaments like the US Open. While the past incident may continue to shape their interactions on court, their ability to maintain a “good relationship” off it speaks to the complex nature of elite sports competition, where personal history and professional conduct constantly intertwine.
