Daniil Medvedev’s forehand, characterized by its open stance and unorthodox technique, continues to be a subject of debate within the tennis world. Although some view it as a flaw defying conventional wisdom, others recognize its effectiveness as a key component of his game.
Footage from the 2025 Rolex Shanghai Masters showcased the power of Medvedev’s forehand, leaving opponent Alejandro Davidovich Fokina with little response. This display of “pure perfection,” as described by commentators, highlights the shot’s capacity to dictate points and overwhelm adversaries.
Medvedev’s approach isn’t limited to raw power. In a February 25, 2025 match at the ATP Dubai tournament against Jan-Lennard Struff, he demonstrated a deceptive tactic, feigning a forehand smash before executing a drop shot. This “unorthodox but effective” maneuver underscored his ability to disrupt opponents’ expectations and exploit vulnerabilities.
Analysis of Medvedev’s technique reveals a unique groundstroke. Observed during practice in 2019, his method deviates from traditional approaches, yet consistently delivers results. A breakdown of his forehand in 10 frames further illustrates the intricacies of his swing.
Interestingly, Medvedev has noted a preference for returning serves traveling at higher speeds, stating that a 230 km/h serve is, surprisingly, easier to handle than one clocked at 190 km/h. This observation speaks to his exceptional reflexes and ability to anticipate and react to fast-paced shots.
Despite his success, Medvedev faced a setback in 2022 when he was forced to miss the Rolex Monte Carlo Masters due to a hernia operation. His return to the court following recovery has been closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
Recent results in Dubai have been mixed. While Medvedev secured a return winner against Tallon Griekspoor, he ultimately fell to Griekspoor in the quarterfinal, marking a significant upset. Felix Auger-Aliassime similarly achieved a notable victory in Dubai, defeating Marin Cilic in a deciding set.
