Sam Querrey Attributes Daniil Medvedev's Rise to No. 1 to His 'Ugly Game'

Former American tennis player Sam Querrey attributes Daniil Medvedev's ascent to world number one to his unconventional and effective playing style, which he describes as an "ugly game." Medvedev broke the 18-year dominance of the "Big Four" (Djokovic, Nadal, Federer, Murray) when he first took the top spot in 2022. Querrey highlights Medvedev's exceptional returning ability, awkward ball striking, and strong defensive skills for a player of his height (6'6"). Unlike many tall players whose success is primarily driven by powerful serves, Medvedev's serve is not his most defining feature, allowing him to create uncomfortable rallies for opponents. The article also reviews Medvedev's performance in the 2026 season, noting a strong start with titles in Brisbane and Dubai, despite some inconsistent results in other tournaments. Currently, Medvedev is preparing for a significant match against Jannik Sinner in the Italian Open semi-finals, aiming to continue his resurgence after a difficult 2025 campaign. This analysis provides insight into how tactical versatility and mental resilience can overcome traditional aesthetic expectations in professional tennis.