World No. 11 Daniil Medvedev commented on the introduction of the electronic line calling system on clay courts. He recently won against Karen Khachanov at the start of the Monte Carlo Masters (7-5, 4-6, 6-4).
“It`s okay with me. There was one serve…”
“But actually, they sent us a video explaining that the bounce we see may not match Hawk-Eye. Because on clay, sometimes when the ball hits the end of the line, it kind of leaves a mark out. There have always been these arguments with the umpires; when he comes, you say: `Here is the mark, it’s out.` And he says: `It bounced off the line.` (Smiles.)
This has always been the case, so at least this is a computer, there`s nothing to argue with. It`s easier for me this way (smiles),” Medvedev said in an interview with the YouTube channel `More!`.
The Russian player also spoke about the fact that both opponents experienced physical difficulties, and together they made 17 breaks.
“This is clay, the first match. I would say that those who grew up on clay feel in their element. In the first match, they already know everything. Khachanov likes to play on clay, but in the first match it is always difficult – both physically, and to adapt to the stress, sliding.
Yes, I was tired in the third set, but we played for three hours, that`s normal. And two points before the end, my legs just gave out, cramps started. Actually, it helped me, because I realized that I can’t ‘roll’ anymore, I need to try to hit, and whatever happens. One shot hit the line, in the next rally I was able to put pressure. So cramps helped this time.
I felt that I was playing the way I needed to. Yes, really, there were small, poorly made decisions in important moments. But I felt that I was doing everything right, and I was really closer to winning in all three sets. I just felt that I needed to try, to push. In principle, there were no problems. Only one fan shouted at me under my arm during my serve (smiles) – well, I sent him little kisses after the match (laughs).”
