Can Positivity Propel Medvedev to Break His Grand Slam Losing Streak?

Daniil Medvedev, a three-time runner-up at the Australian Open, has begun his 2026 campaign on a high note by winning his first-round match against Dutch player Jesper de Jong. This victory marks a significant turnaround for Medvedev, who had faced a difficult year in Grand Slam tournaments, suffering early exits at the French Open, Wimbledon, and the US Open in 2025. His renewed focus on positivity both on and off the court appears to be paying off, as he aims to improve his performance and regain his standing in the tennis world.

Last updated: 18 January 2026 (BST)

What’s happening now

As the 2026 Australian Open unfolds, Daniil Medvedev is making headlines not just for his performance but also for his attitude. After a challenging previous season, he seems to be embracing a more positive mindset, which has contributed to his successful start in Melbourne. Medvedev’s first-round win over de Jong, with a score of 7-5, 6-2, 7-6 (7-2), indicates both his skill and his determination to break free from the struggles that plagued him in 2025.

Key takeaways

Medvedev defeated Jesper de Jong in the first round of the Australian Open.
This victory marks his first Grand Slam win since a series of first-round exits in 2025.
He is focusing on maintaining a positive attitude on the court.

Timeline: how we got here

The past year has been tumultuous for Daniil Medvedev, marked by highs and lows that have influenced his current performance. Key dates include:

1 January 2025: Medvedev began the year ranked fifth in the world.
August 2025: Suffered first-round exits at the US Open, leading to a split with coach Gilles Cervara.
October 2025: Won the Almaty Open for his first title in 882 days.
January 2026: Started the Australian Open with a victory over Jesper de Jong.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Medvedev's recent performance indicates a shift in his mindset, showcasing his focus on positivity which he claims is helping him perform better. His win in the first round suggests he is rediscovering his form as he aims for a deep run in the tournament.

What was already established

Previously, Medvedev faced significant challenges, including three consecutive first-round exits in Grand Slam tournaments in 2025, which prompted a need for change in his coaching setup and mental approach. His struggles were often attributed to his mental state rather than physical issues.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For tennis fans in the UK, Medvedev's return to form is a positive development, especially with high-profile matches being broadcast live. The excitement around the Australian Open contributes to the sporting culture and provides entertainment for households during the winter months.

Businesses and jobs

Medvedev's ascent in the tournament can boost viewership and engagement, which benefits broadcasters and sponsors. Increased interest in tennis can lead to more jobs in sports media and event management as well.

Policy and regulation

The Australian Open is governed by strict regulations regarding player conduct and mental health support, and Medvedev's focus on positivity aligns with broader discussions in the sport about mental well-being for athletes.

Numbers that matter

6: Medvedev's current match record for the 2026 season.
882: Days without a title prior to winning the Almaty Open in October 2025.
18: Medvedev's ranking at his lowest point in 2025.

Definitions and jargon buster

Grand Slam: The four major tournaments in tennis: Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and US Open.
ATP: Association of Tennis Professionals, the governing body of men's tennis.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As the Australian Open progresses, Medvedev will need to maintain his momentum, focusing on each match as it comes, particularly with his next challenge against Quentin Halys.

Medium term (1–6 months)

If he continues to perform well, Medvedev could regain a higher ranking and potentially qualify for key tournaments, including the ATP Finals later in the year.

Signals to watch

Performance against higher-ranked opponents in upcoming rounds.
Changes in his coaching team and their impact on his game.
Overall ranking shifts as the season progresses.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay updated on Medvedev's matches and performance statistics.
Engage with tennis-related content to understand the sport better.

Don’t

Underestimate the impact of mental health on athlete performance.
Ignore the importance of coaching changes in an athlete's career.

Checklist

Follow Medvedev's progress in the Australian Open.
Monitor news on player mental health initiatives.
Keep track of ATP rankings and tournament schedules.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Medvedev's recent success is promising, it is important to note that his past struggles may resurface. The unpredictability of sports performance means that mental resilience will be crucial as he faces tougher opponents in the tournament. Additionally, the impact of coaching changes can take time to materialise fully.

Bottom line

Daniil Medvedev's victory in the first round of the Australian Open signals a potential resurgence in his career, driven by a focus on positivity and a refreshed coaching team. As he progresses in the tournament, both fans and analysts will be watching closely to see if he can sustain this momentum and reclaim his place among the top players in tennis.

FAQs

How has Daniil Medvedev's mindset changed recently?

Medvedev is focusing on being more positive on the court, which he believes has improved his performance and mental state during matches.

What were Medvedev's struggles in 2025?

He faced early exits in all Grand Slam tournaments and dropped significantly in the ATP rankings, which he attributes to mental challenges rather than physical issues.

Who is Medvedev's next opponent in the Australian Open?

Medvedev will face Quentin Halys of France in the next round of the Australian Open following his first-round victory.