WATCH: Daniil Medvedev fake cries after Andrey Rublev lauds him after Dubai Open final

July 20, 2024

In a record-breaking final, Daniil Medvedev defeated friend and compatriot, Andrey Rublev to clinch the Dubai Open title. This was his third consecutive ATP Tour championship in three weeks. Medvedev also increased his winning streak to 14 matches. In addition, he has also increased his total tally of titles to 18.

Medvedev and Rublev have been friends since their childhood days. Their long-time relationship was apparent during the trophy ceremony. The pair engaged in some banter with each other. They also said some heartfelt words, expressing their mutual respect. As Rublev praised the former World No.1, Daniil was so touched that he ‘cried’.

Andrey started his speech by reiterating his struggles during the second-round match. He went on to commend the US Open winner on his three consecutive titles. Medvedev has won in Qatar, Rotterdam, and now Dubai in three weeks. Rublev said that he was ‘completely destroyed’ in the final and lauded him for his achievements.

He also stated that Daniil is a real ‘champion’ as well as an ‘inspiration’ for all the players on tour. Furthermore, Rublev has great respect for Medvedev as well. After he spoke about Daniil’s childhood and the struggle he faced, the interviewer was sure that Medvedev appreciated his words. Andrey sarcastically said that maybe he didn’t like his words.

He further teased Medvedev asking him, ” Did you cry a bit?”. On cue, the camera spanned towards the champion, and he ‘shed’ a few tears to appease his friend and competitor. The crowd loved the interaction as they laughed along with Medvedev at his antics. Suffice it to say, the duo shares much love and respect for each other.

Also read: Daniil Medvedev inspired by Maria Sharapova’s journey to conquer clay

Andrey Rublev gives advice to face Djokovic and Nadal

According to Andrey Rublev, in order to stand a chance against Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, you must be at your very best. The Russian advised players on competing against them both. Rublev has one victory over Djokovic, who he defeated in the Belgrade final in 2022. On the other hand, Rublev has one win and two losses against Nadal.

At a press conference during the 2023 Dubai Open, Rublev stated, “When you face players like Novak or Rafa, you have to have a perfect day. You have to put everything in, everything clicks, both mentally and physically”. He also said that the reason for their dominance is that they take advantage of the opponents very quickly, giving them a drastic upper hand.