Daniil Medvedev makes bold move ahead of 2025 French Open following early exit at Italian Open

Daniil Medvedev remains one of the top players on the ATP Tour, even if his recent performances haven’t reflected his usual standard. Determined not to fall behind rising stars like Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, and Casper Ruud, the Russian made a bold decision ahead of 2025 French Open, following his early exit at the Italian Open.

Medvedev’s Round of 16 loss in Rome came as a surprise. While his opponent played well, the match was marked by tension between Medvedev and the Italian crowd, an episode that may have disrupted the former world No. 1’s focus.

Now shifting gears for the second Grand Slam of the year, Medvedev is aiming to boost his chances at Roland Garros by taking an unexpected step: entering the doubles draw.

The move marks his return to doubles at the French Open after an eight-year absence. Organizers confirmed that Medvedev has entered the men’s doubles preliminary entry list alongside Brazil’s Marcelo Demoliner, potentially signaling a new strategy to sharpen his all-around game ahead of the singles competition.

Medvedev’s doubles appearances

With the possibility of playing doubles again at this year’s French Open, Medvedev appears eager to prove he still has what it takes. Falling out of the ATP’s top 10 may be one reason behind his decision to return to doubles, potentially as a way to refine aspects of his movement and overall game.

Medvedev has only played doubles twice at a Grand Slam, both in 2017. He made his debut at Roland Garros alongside James Cerretani, falling in the first round. Later that year, he reached the second round of the US Open with partner Mikhail Elgin before being eliminated.

Knowing that clay is not his strongest surface, the Russian star may be turning to doubles as a way to sharpen his skills during the clay-court season. With a slow start to the year, Medvedev is looking to prove he’s far from finished, and this could be a strategic step forward, after the Italian Open early exit.

Medvedev’s 2025 stats

So far in 2025, Medvedev has not reached the final of any Masters 1000 or Grand Slam event, highlighting the inconsistency that has plagued his season. His lone semifinal appearance stands in contrast to a disappointing early exit in the Round of 64 at the Australian Open.

His overall numbers also fall short of expectations. Through 28 matches, Medvedev has suffered 10 losses and has yet to claim a title, his last tournament win came in 2023. Statistically, he’s recorded 172 aces, 99 double faults, and converted just 40% of his break point opportunities.