Key Takeaways
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Daniil Medvedev advances to the third round of the US Open
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Russian star uses a movie metaphor to describe his role on tour
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Medvedev wants to be seen as the “bad guy” until the twist reveals he is the true hero
A cinematic perspective
After reaching the third round in New York, Daniil Medvedev offered a playful reflection when asked about his role if the US Open were a movie. “It’s super easy. For about 50% of the movie, you know this kind of movie where you don’t know what the ending is and you try to guess who is the bad guy… I wanna be the guy who you’re gonna watch the movie and almost til the end think he’s a bad guy, he’s not good. Then at the last second of the movie you understand that he was the best guy ever,” Medvedev explained.
Embracing the villain’s mask
Medvedev’s comments highlight his willingness to embrace the perception of being a controversial figure on court, only to reveal his true qualities through resilience and success. His metaphor reflects the way he often polarizes crowds but ultimately earns respect with his performances.
Focus on the bigger picture
The Russian star’s remarks underline his awareness of narrative and perception in tennis. By framing himself as the misunderstood hero, Medvedev shows both humor and self-awareness, reinforcing his unique personality on the tour.
With his place secured in the third round, Medvedev continues his campaign at Flushing Meadows, determined to prove that beyond the theatrics and crowd reactions, his tennis makes him one of the central figures of the tournament.
Medvedev after reaching US Open Round 3
“If the U.S. Open was a movie would you rather play the hero or the villain?”
Daniil: “It’s super easy. For about 50% of the movie, you know this kind of movie where you don’t know what the ending is and you try to guess who is the bad… pic.twitter.com/cAEcMKeDUh
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) September 2, 2026
ATP U.S. Open - Daniil Medvedev's projected path
Medvedev at the U.S. Open, ranking, and results in 2026
Now ranked no.8, Medvedev owns a 33-15 record in 2026. Daniil is now competing at the U.S. Open where he bested the world no.91 Hugo Gaston 6-4 6-2 6-4 and the world no.731 Sebastian Gorzny 6-1 6-3 7-5.
Daniil Medvedev will come up against the world no.29 Arthur Rinderknech in the 3rd round. The head to head is 1-1.
Daniil has won 2 titles in 2026 in Brisbane and Dubai.
Daniil won 23 titles in his career: 12 on hard courts, 1 on clay courts, 9 on indoor courts and 1 on grass courts. (See the list of his titles)
