Key Takeaways
- Daniil Medvedev stated that the ATP Finals should not introduce a wild-card entry system.
- The Russian highlighted that the existing provision for Grand Slam winners outside the top eight is already sufficient.
- Medvedev noted that Novak Djokovic still has opportunities to qualify on merit through remaining tour events.
Opposition to wild cards at the season finale
Daniil Medvedev has rejected the suggestion that Novak Djokovic or any other player should be awarded a wild card to participate in the ATP Finals. Speaking to the media after advancing to the quarterfinals of the ATP 250 event in Almaty, the 2020 tournament champion shared his perspective on qualification procedures.
Addressing whether special invitations should be introduced, the former world number one stated, “There should be no wild cards” at the prestigious year-end championship.
Existing qualification paths deemed sufficient
Medvedev explained that the current system already incorporates a mechanism to reward standout major champions who fall outside the primary cutoff. He noted that players outside the top eight who win a Grand Slam title already secure entry, remarking that “rule is good” and serves as an adequate safeguard without introducing traditional wild-card berths.
Djokovic still in contention for Turin
Despite ruling out special exemptions, Medvedev highlighted that Djokovic retains the capability to qualify on sporting merit through the standard ranking race. He noted that the Serbian competitor had displayed strong form in Beijing and maintains opportunities over his remaining scheduled events to amass the required points.
Medvedev emphasized that while players and fans would welcome Djokovic in Turin if he manages to qualify, failing to secure a place remains an accepted sporting outcome as the tour looks ahead to the following campaign.
ATP Almaty - Daniil Medvedev's projected path
Medvedev in Almaty, ranking, and results in 2026
Currently the world no.5, Medvedev achieved an overall 46-18 win-loss record in 2026. Medvedev is playing in Almaty where he conquered the world no.109 Sho Shimabukuro 6-2 6-1.
Daniil Medvedev will fight against the world no.98 Terence Atmane in the quarter on Friday at 3:30 pm on Center Court. Their head to head is 2-0 for Medvedev.
The Russian conquered 3 titles in 2026 in Brisbane, Dubai and Hangzhou.
Daniil won 24 titles in his career: 13 on hard courts, 1 on clay courts, 9 on indoor courts and 1 on grass courts. (See the list of his titles)
