The pair split the first two sets before Daniil Medvedev outlasted the the veteran physically to win 6-7(8), 6-4, 6-1.

Stan Wawrinka reminded fans that he can still compete with the best players in the world despite being 40 years of age, which is something Medvedev admires.

What does Daniil Medvedev think of Stan Wawrinka?

Wawrinka became one of the most feared players on tear as he overwhelmed opponents with his relentless power during his peak.

This is something Medvedev experienced on two occasions after losing to the Swiss player at the 2020 Australian Open and 2022 Moselle Open.

The pair split their first four meetings with two wins apiece, but Medvedev claimed his third win against Wawrinka in Rotterdam. Post-match, Medvedev provided a glowing assessment of the former world number three.

“He played good, but it’s Stan, he always plays good. Of course, he is not at his peak when he was winning Grand Slams,” he said. “I never played him when he was at this level, and it’s a pity because I would love it as a challenge.

“I am pretty sure there would be some matches where he would chop me, and somewhere I would fight. Stan is also an amazing guy. In my opinion, he is one of the humblest, nicest guys on Tour.”

Who is Daniil Medvedev’s next opponent at the Rotterdam Open?

Medvedev came from a set down to beat Wawrinka and claim just his second win of 2025.

This ensured he will continue his quest to try the Rotterdam Open for the second time in three seasons.

“When you have some confidence, you win some sets which you should lose. When you don’t have the confidence, you lose some sets which you should win,” Medvedev added.

“I was like ‘I’m not playing so bad at the moment’, so if I continued to push and try to play better it could work out, and I am happy that it did. Hopefully I can play better and better in the next matches.”

He will play qualifier Mattia Bellucci in the next round who beat teenager Mees Rottgering to set up a contest against the former World number one.

Related Topics