Daniil Medvedev, the 2024 Australian Open finalist, endured a tense and emotional match in the first round of this year’s tournament, securing a hard-fought victory over Thai wild card Kasidit Samrej. Medvedev's intense on-court frustration led to an outburst, but he ultimately recovered to win in five sets, 6-2, 4-6, 3-6, 6-1, 6-2.
Frustration leads to a fiery outburst
Medvedev, who had arrived in Australia later than planned due to the recent birth of his second child, found himself in serious trouble against the world No. 418 Samrej.
The young Thai player, making his Grand Slam debut, held a 2-1 lead in sets after winning the third set dominantly. In a moment of frustration, Medvedev repeatedly struck his racket against the middle of the net, destroying a camera attached there, as he struggled to find his rhythm.
Samrej’s physical struggles open door for Medvedev
Despite his earlier dominance, Samrej began to show signs of physical fatigue. Much like American teenager Nishesh Bavareddy, who had led Novak Djokovic in a close match earlier in the tournament, Samrej’s energy started to fade, and Medvedev seized the opportunity. The Russian quickly regrouped, overwhelming Samrej with his power and precision, winning the last two sets with ease.
Medvedev reflects on his victory
After the match, Medvedev shared his thoughts on his performance and his struggles earlier in the match. "I know I play better when I play more tennis," he said.
"Why play one hour 30? Minimum three hours." Reflecting on his earlier difficulties, he added, "Second and third set, I couldn't touch the ball. Full power, everything in. I didn't know what to do. If he plays like this every match, his life can be good. Money, girls, casino."
Samrej’s impressive debut and Medvedev’s new energy
Samrej earned his wild card entry by winning the Asia-Pacific Wild Card Play-off and had been training with Novak Djokovic in Thailand before the event. Despite his loss, his performance demonstrated his potential on the big stage.
For Medvedev, the win is a sign of positive momentum. After a challenging second half of last season, he expressed that the birth of his second child has given him a renewed sense of energy. "It only gives me good energy," he said. "In the end of last year, this match, I probably would have lost it. New year, new energy, at least for now. I'm happy to have won this match."
Medvedev’s victory in this five-set battle against Kasidit Samrej demonstrates his resilience and ability to overcome frustration. As he continues his journey in the Australian Open, Medvedev will look to build on the new energy and motivation brought by his family’s latest addition.