Daniil Medvedev Slams ATP in ‘Formula 1’ Comparison

Daniil Medvedev has launched a scathing attack on the ATP, claiming the organization “don’t know where they are going” in the wake of Denis Shapovalov’s controversial default. The Canadian star was defaulted from his Washington quarter-final match against Ben Shelton last week following an altercation with a crowd member.

The incident has sparked widespread debate, with many questioning the ATP’s handling of the situation. Shapovalov was defaulted despite uncertainty surrounding what had been said to him to provoke a response, and what his response had been. Moreover, Shelton was already three match points up at the time, making the default seem harsh.

Shapovalov has received widespread support from his fellow ATP professionals, who feel he was treated unfairly. The ATP has since announced that Shapovalov will not be stripped of prize money or ranking points, but will still be fined for a code violation.

Medvedev, the 2021 US Open champion, has become the latest player to defend Shapovalov. Speaking ahead of his Canadian Open campaign, Medvedev expressed his support for his fellow player and criticized the ATP’s handling of the situation.

Medvedev believes the ATP needs to make things “clearer” for players, particularly regarding crowd behavior. He accused the organization of making tennis too much like “Formula 1 or football,” where crowd behavior is often overlooked.

The Russian player’s comments highlight the growing frustration among players with the ATP’s decision-making. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the ATP will respond to Medvedev’s criticisms and the wider concerns of the tennis community.