Medvedev at a Crucial Juncture: Charting His ‘Adult Career’
The 20-time tour champion shares insights on his coaching transition and more.
October 04, 2025
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Daniil Medvedev steps into Shanghai with a 30-20 season record.
By ATP Staff
Daniil Medvedev hasn’t lost his competitive spirit; he’s simply in search of a new flame.
At the age of 29, the 20-time titleholder finds himself at a pivotal moment in his career, eager to reclaim the confidence and consistency that once saw him rise to World No. 1 in the PIF ATP Rankings. He is embarking on this journey with new perspectives by his side.
After an extensive 50-tournament stretch without a title, following an impressive five wins within the first five months of 2023, Medvedev has parted ways with his longtime coach Gilles Cervara. He has now teamed up with Thomas Johansson and Rohan Goetzke.
“Making this decision wasn’t easy,” the 2021 US Open champion revealed to ATP Media at the Rolex Shanghai Masters, a tournament he clinched in 2019. “However, I’m nearly 30, and I felt it was the right moment for a change in my adult career. Back when I started with Gilles, I was still quite young, and it was more influenced by my parents. Now, taking charge of my own direction feels refreshing.”
Cervara had been a constant support for Medvedev since he broke onto the ATP Tour. However, after a challenging year where he only won one match across the four Grand Slams, the 2022 US Open champion took a two-week break from the court and announced his decision to part ways with Cervara. During this time, he adopted a rejuvenated mindset in his coaching quest.
“Your needs evolve as you transition from your 20s to your 30s,” Medvedev explained in an exclusive interview with ATPTour.com. “In your 20s, you often require guidance, but as you grow older, it’s about discovering your own path again.”
Medvedev is vocal about the qualities he seeks in his team.
“It’s crucial for my coach to be an attentive listener,” he stated. “Having that connection is paramount in this line of work. I’ve struck a great rapport with Thomas and Rohan, enjoying both our time on and off the court. They’re not afraid to speak up when necessary.”
This blend of serious focus and cheeky humor has long characterized the unpredictable Medvedev. Following a first-round exit at the US Open, he famously tossed six racquets to eager fans after having vehemently smashed another from his chair. This chaotic episode was revealing—Medvedev was at a boiling point.
“It stemmed from a sense of desperation,” he reflected. “Yet, I thought, ‘The fans will probably enjoy this.’ I initially thought I was out of racquets, not realizing I still had one left. I was undeniably frustrated—not only with the result but with how I felt and behaved on the court.”
“I needed to release that frustration—though perhaps not on the court. I was cramping and unable to stand. It was indeed a moment of desperation, signaling I was ready for a fresh start.”
Arriving in Shanghai, Medvedev carries the momentum of a semi-final finish in Beijing, despite facing cramps that prompted his retirement against Learner Tien at the ATP 500. However, he is enthusiastic to kickstart his journey at his beloved tournament.
“Beijing was significant for me, and I aim to make further progress here in Shanghai. I have a deep appreciation for China and always look forward to returning.”
“Since my first visit, this has been the best event I’ve experienced outside the Grand Slams,” stated the 16th seed. “That’s just my personal view, but it’s genuinely my favorite tournament. I cherish returning here and can share a wealth of positive experiences about the venue, the courts, and the atmosphere.”
Medvedev will launch his Shanghai campaign against Czech qualifier Dalibor Svrcina on Saturday, the final match on Grandstand 2, which this year features a new retractable roof.
