'Rafael Nadal was on top of his form', says Top 5

The 2020 edition of the US Open is destined to go down in history as one of the strangest and most controversial ever. Until a couple of months ago, hardly anyone would have imagined the holding of the New York Slam in relation to the health crisis that had hit the United States. The improvement in the global situation - combined with the extraordinary effort made by the USTA - allowed the tournament to take place in the bubble established in Flushing Meadows. The organizers had to collect numerous forfeits, some really heavy, like that of the reigning champion Rafael Nadal and the five-time champion Roger Federer (Ashleigh Barty, Simona Halep and Bianca Andreescu will also be missing from the women's side). There is great anticipation to see Daniil Medvedev at work, last year finalist after a memorable ride. The Russian narrowly missed the feat against Nadal by recovering two sets, but eventually had to surrender in the fifth.

Medvedev on Rafael Nadal

“It’s really different… I am sure it would feel another way if there was not COVID-19 in the world. Still, it feels great to be back. Hopefully, I can have a good tournament. Playing on Ashe [stadium court] the first match [in the] night session, even if there are no fans, I’m looking forward to it. Hopefully, I can show some great tennis, maybe make some new memories for myself" - Daniil Medvedev explained. The Russian already has a great memory in New York as he reached the final last year but he sadly lost there to Rafael Nadal in an absolute thriller. When asked if he still remembers it he said, “Sometimes I do remember it. It was a great match, great fight, great level. Against Rafa, he was on top of his form. I need to also remember this sometimes, just play the same tennis.” Medvedev didn't exactly shine in Cincinnati, where he took the title in 2019. After beating Marcos Giron and Aljaz Bedene quite easily, Daniil got Roberto Bautista-Agut reassembled in the quarter-finals. The US Open will miss Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, a factor that will increase the pressure on all other players. The pandemic situation caused havoc in the entire world. Its consequences have been alarming. “Safety was a priority for everybody (but) as soon as everybody really got the information on how it’s going to be here I think everybody decided to go.”

from Tennis World USA https://ift.tt/32JKf6V