During a lighthearted interview at the Cincinnati Open, Daniil Medvedev and Iga Swiatek shared laughs over a nickname Swiatek once gave him: “pretzel.” The name, inspired by Medvedev’s unconventional movements on court, especially his forehand, was coined during a 2021 video chat with their shared sponsor, Tecnifibre. Medvedev admitted he found it funny and even carries a pretzel-shaped dampener in his bag, though he prefers the flame design that nods to his US Open win.
Mutual Admiration and Playful Banter
The two Grand Slam champions showed genuine respect for each other’s games. When asked what skill they’d steal from one another, Medvedev praised Swiatek’s consistency and ability to hit strong shots without missing. He explained that their quirky techniques stem from a shared goal: getting the ball in play, no matter how awkward the motion. Swiatek, in turn, admired Medvedev’s powerful serve and his deep return position, joking that she’s started to return from further back—though not quite as far as him.
Off-Court Chemistry
Their camaraderie extended beyond the interview. Sharing a sponsor has led to joint promotional events and even a humorous attempt to play padel against professionals. Their easy rapport and shared sense of humor made the interview a fan favorite, highlighting not just their athletic prowess but their personalities as well.
Daniil Medvedev in 2025
Ranked no.15, Medvedev played his last match on the 10th
of August when he surrendered to Unknown Player bye in the 1st round in Cincinnati (draw).This season the Russian has achieved a composed 26-16 record. Daniil Medvedev’s best accomplishment of the present season was getting to the final in Halle.
Swiatek in Cincinnati, ranking, and results in 2025
Now the world no.3, Iga owns a 45-12 match record in 2025. Swiatek is currently playing in Cincinnati where she ousted the world no.45 Anastasia Potapova 6-1 6-4.
Iga Swiatek will compete against the world no.27 Marta Kostyuk in the 3rd round. Their current record is 3-0 for Swiatek.
Iga has won 1 title in 2025 in Wimbledon. The Pole got to the final in Australia (United Cup) and in Bad Homburg (Bad Homburg Open).
Iga won 24 titles in her career: 13 on hard courts, 10 on clay courts and 1 on grass courts. (See the list of her titles)