Australian Open runner-up Daniil Medvedev has opened up on champion Novak Djokovic behind the scenes, revealing how the world number one treated him when he was coming through the tennis ranks.
The Russian fourth seed was destroyed 7-5 6-2 6-2 by Djokovic in the Australian Open final at Rod Laver Arena on Sunday night - losing his second Grand Slam decider in his career after being defeated by Rafael Nadal in the 2019 US Open.
Despite his stern expression during speeches from tennis officials and sponsors, Medvedev showed his affection for Djokovic by telling a story when it was turn to speak as runner-up.
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The 25-year-old glanced warmly toward the 18-time Grand Slam champion as he recalled when the duo practised together while Medvedev was developing his game.
"I first practised with Novak when I was like (ranked) 500, 600 in the world in Monaco," Medvedev said during his runner-up acceptance speech.
"He was already No.1. Just won Wimbledon. I thought, ‘OK, he’s not going to speak to me’ or something, because the guy was a God for me. I came there...
"Because I was shy, I didn’t speak. He was asking the questions, talking to me like a friend. I was really surprised.
"It never changed since I was 600 in the world or four in the world - you’re a great sport, great person. So congratulations."
In winning his ninth Australian Open title, from nine finals in the event, Djokovic has been forced to answer criticism over the legitimacy of his injury, while he was also involved in an ongoing spat with Australian star Nick Kyrgios.
However, the Serbian looked absolutely chuffed with the praise of his personality by Medvedev and he believes the defensive baseliner will win a Grand Slam in the near future.
"I would like to return nice words to Daniil. First of all, class act," Djokovic said.
"You’re a great guy. Great person. You’re a great guy. Great person.
Djokovic then turned comedian to the laughs of the crowd: "You know, we used to spend more time together. We used to practise more in Monaco. You’re not calling me anymore in the last few years.
"But it’s nice to see that you were thinking good things about me. Thank you so much.
"I really like Daniil as a person, off the court he’s great. Always very friendly. Very outgoing. On the court, he’s definitely one of the toughest players that I ever faced in my life.
"It’s a matter of time when you hold a Grand Slam (title) that’s for sure. If you don’t mind waiting a few more years."
