Federer, Nadal, Djokovic and Murray snubbed as Medvedev names toughest opponent

Daniil Medvedev snubbed the Big Four as he named the toughest opponent he’s faced in his career.

The former world No. 1 will be back in action at the Laver Cup later this week, where he is set to join forces with his rivals on Team Europe.

One of his team-mates will be Carlos Alcaraz - the man Medvedev believes is the toughest he’s played.

Ahead of the Laver Cup, some of Medvedev’s recent comments about Alcaraz have resurfaced. They last faced each other at Wimbledon, where the Russian upset world No. 1 Jannik Sinner before losing to Alcaraz in the semi-final.

Afterwards, Medvedev declared: “Probably in my career, he’s [the] toughest opponent I have faced.” It’s a bold statement given that the world No. 5 has faced Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray.

The Russian has never beaten Federer. He has a 1-5 head-to-head with Nadal and a 5-10 record against Djokovic. But he still believes Alcaraz proves the biggest challenge.

Medvedev was also keen to learn how to beat the Spaniard, adding: “I’m going to try to raise my level next time I play Carlos, try to do something new, something better.” And he will have the perfect opportunity this weekend.

The 28-year-old will be on the same side of the net as Alcaraz when they compete at the Laver Cup. It will give him a real insight into Alcaraz’s game as they will practice together and could even join forces in doubles.

Alcaraz has never played in the Federer-founded team tournament, while Medvedev’s only appearance came three years ago. The Russian is looking forward to the unique chance to spend time with his rivals over the course of the week in Berlin.