Daniil Medvedev, known for his candid remarks, has once again voiced his frustration with the court conditions at Indian Wells. The tournament, which has long been characterized by its slow, gritty surface, recently switched from Plexipave to Laykold courts. This change was intended to bring the event in line with other major tournaments like the US Open and Miami Open, which also use Laykold surfaces.

Despite the switch, Medvedev has expressed that the new surface seems even slower than before. During a practice session, he was heard exclaiming, “As slow as this court!”. This sentiment echoes his previous criticisms of the Indian Wells courts, where he famously called the conditions a “disgrace” in 2023.

This is what he said: it’s okay, I like Indian Wells, I even like the courts now, but they seem to be almost slower than before, very slow. I don’t know what other players think, but as I said, I just had two days, jet lagged.

So you’re not very, how you say, when you don’t see the things maybe in the right way. So I won’t be able to tell you that I’m sure what I’m saying.

But, yeah, I played two days, and they seemed very, very slow, so let’s see how it plays during the tournament.

And I didn’t see the difference. Like, today I accidentally, my racquet fell down from my hand, I didn’t throw it (smiling), really, and from the low height, and the grip was completely, you know, torn, just because of how rough the court is, and when it’s rough it’s slow.”

The slow playing conditions at Indian Wells have always been a topic of discussion among players. The unique climate and altitude of the desert location contribute to the high bounce and slower pace of the courts. While some players, like Taylor Fritz, the 2022 champion, believe that the transition to Laykold might require some adjustments, they acknowledge that Indian Wells has always played differently from other hard-court events.

The reactions to the new surface have been mixed. Aryna Sabalenka, currently ranked world number one, welcomes the change, expecting it to suit her powerful game. On the other hand, Carlos Alcaraz, known for his inventive shot-making, expressed confusion and dissatisfaction over the unexpected shift from the traditionally slower surfaces. Elena Rybakina observed minimal differences, noting that environmental factors still affect the bounce.

As the tournament progresses, players will continue to adapt to the new conditions. The slow, gritty nature of Indian Wells remains a defining characteristic, and the best players will find a way to adjust and thrive, regardless of the surface changes.

Daniil Medvedev in 2025

Currently the world no.6, the Russian played his last match on the 27^th of February when he lost to world no.43 Tallon Griekspoor 2-6 7-6(7) 7-5 in the quarter in Dubai (draw).

Presently, during this year the Russian has a composed 8-5 record. Daniil Medvedev’s most significant accomplishment of this year was getting to the semifinal in Marseille.

He is also scheduled to play in Miami (Miami Open) on the 17th of March and Miami (Miami Open) on the 19th of March.

Andrey Rublev in 2025

Now ranked no.8, the Russian played his last match on the 25^th of February when he was overcome by world no.59 Quentin Halys 3-6 6-4 7-6(5) in the 1^st round in Dubai (draw).

At the moment, during this season Andrey owns a 9-5 record. Rublev conquered 1 title in Doha.

Daniil Medvedev and Andrey Rublev squared off 10 times. The head to head is 8-2 for Medvedev.