Daniil Medvedev’s bid at the Madrid Open came to an abrupt halt as he was forced to retire from his quarter-final match against Jiri Lehecka due to injury.
The world number four received treatment on the upper part of his right leg while leading 3-2 in the first set and again later in the set. Despite trying to play through the discomfort, Medvedev eventually decided he could not continue.
Describing the moment of injury, Medvedev explained, “When I ran, I wanted to run faster and faster during the movement, and suddenly felt my hip blocked.” He expressed uncertainty whether it was a muscle strain or spasm and consulted with the physiotherapist about the severity of the injury. Ultimately, he felt unable to play at full capacity and decided to retire from the match.
Hopefully see you on court very soon Daniil ❤️@jirilehecka advances to his first ever Masters 1000 semi-final as Medvedev is forced to retire due to injury@MutuaMadridOpen | #MMOPEN pic.twitter.com/ApBJTDk3Ix
— ATP Tour (@atptour) May 2, 2024
Medvedev’s injury adds to the list of top players struggling with fitness concerns ahead of the French Open. Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner withdrew from his quarter-final match due to a hip injury, while world number three Carlos Alcaraz competed with a right forearm problem. The uncertainty surrounding Medvedev’s injury leaves his participation in upcoming tournaments, including the Rome Masters where he is scheduled to defend his title, in doubt.
With the French Open looming on May 26, Medvedev faces an anxious wait to determine the extent of his injury and the potential impact on his participation in the upcoming tournaments.