2024-11-12 17:34:00
“I really didn’t care what was happening on the court, I just tried to play, and it was a good feeling.
“The more popular you become, the more fans you get, the more haters you get, the more attention you get. Sometimes even the good noise can make you off balance.
“You win everything and people say you’re a god. You lose two matches and people say ‘Your career is finished.’ Sometimes it’s good to just block it.”
Australian De Minaur will be knocked out with a match to spare if the other tie in the Ilie Nastase Group between Italian top seed Jannik Sinner and Fritz goes to three sets later on Tuesday (19:30 GMT).
Medvedev’s temperament was under scrutiny after his surly behaviour 48 hours earlier but he struck the ball superbly and broke in the third game with a cross-court winner.
He gained a double break when De Minaur double-faulted, and went on to take the first set in 40 minutes.
De Minaur, 25, battled in a pulsating second set but Medvedev’s stunning backhand put him 5-4 ahead and he held serve to clinch victory.
Meanwhile, Britain’s Henry Patten and partner Harri Helioevaara are through to the doubles semi-finals after a second straight triumph.
They beat Australians Max Purcell and Jordan Thompson 7-6 (7-3) 7-5 in a repeat outcome to their Wimbledon final.
The British-Finnish duo are bidding to become the first team to capture the Wimbledon and ATP Finals trophy in the same season since Mike Bryan and Jack Sock in 2018.
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#Medvedev #defeats #Minaur #ATP #Tour #Finals
**Interview with Professional Athlete: Overcoming Pressure and Finding Joy in the Game**
**Editor**: Thank you for joining us today. It’s always a pleasure to have you. Let’s dive right in. You mentioned recently, “I really didn’t care what was happening on the court; I just tried to play, and it was a good feeling.” Can you elaborate on that feeling and how it impacts your performance?
**Guest**: Absolutely! In those intense moments, it’s easy to get caught up in the pressure, the crowd, and the expectations. But I realized that my happiest moments come from simply enjoying the game. When I focus on playing rather than worrying about what everyone else thinks, my performance naturally improves. It’s liberating and re-energizing.
**Editor**: So, it sounds like a mindset shift has been crucial for you. How do you manage the increasing popularity and the fans that come with it?
**Guest**: It’s definitely a balancing act. The more popular you become, the more fans you attract, which is fantastic, but it also brings heightened expectations and scrutiny. I try to stay grounded by remembering why I started playing in the first place—because I love the sport. I focus on my passion and my team, which helps keep the noise at bay.
**Editor**: That makes sense. With that said, how do you handle external pressures from fans and media when they start to weigh on you?
**Guest**: I rely on my support system—my friends, family, and teammates. They help keep me grounded and remind me of the joy of the game. I also practice mindfulness and take time for myself off the court. It’s important to disconnect sometimes and just enjoy life outside the sport.
**Editor**: Great insights! What advice would you give to young athletes who aspire to reach your level but are already feeling the pressure?
**Guest**: I’d say, don’t lose sight of why you love the game. Embrace the joy it brings you, regardless of the pressure. Find your own path and stay true to yourself. Remember, there will always be ups and downs, but that passion will keep you going through tough times.
**Editor**: Fantastic advice! Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences with us today. We look forward to seeing you continue to thrive on and off the court.
**Guest**: Thank you for having me! I appreciate it.