Daniil Medvedev is back in his villain role.
The Russian toyed with the Australian Open crowd in his on-court interview after defeating Nick Kyrgios in the second round of the season’s first Grand Slam. He also said that the fans “probably just have a low IQ.”
Medvedev was jeered throughout his four-set win and it continued in a post-match interview with TV analyst and two-time Australian Open champ, Jim Courier, who asked the Russian how he kept his emotions in check.
“That is the only choice when you get booed between first and second serve. You have to stay calm and win the match,” Medvedev said.
Courier said he believes that the fans are actually chanting “suuuuu,” as a reference to Cristiano Ronaldo’s cheer, and not booing the players.
“Sorry, I can’t hear you. Show some respect for Jim Courier,” Medvedev said.
Daniil Medvedev in his post-match interview with Jim Courier at the Australian Open.REUTERS“Thank you, guys. Let him speak, please. If you respect somebody, at least respect Jim Courier. What I was saying is … I cannot hear him, guys.”
The boisterous crowd also bothered Kyrgios, who they were trying to encourage.
“Can you please stop screaming out while I’m f–king serving,” the controversial Australian screamed at his fans during the first set.
With Novak Djokovic deported, the 25-year-old Medvedev is the favorite to win the event after winning his first Grand Slam at the US Open in September.
Daniil Medvedev of Russia reacts after winning his second-round match over Nick Kyrgios.EPAThis isn’t the first time Medvedev has dealt with an enraged crowd. During his run to the 2019 US Open finals, he frequently egged on the Flushing Meadows crowd during matches and in on-court interviews.
Medvedev ultimately won their approval in an epic five-set loss in the finals to Rafael Nadal. He still has work to do in Melbourne to become a fan favorite, though.
