I’m here to help Medvedev if he needs me – Rublev

In the wake of his antics at the US Open, Daniil Medvedev should be able to open up emotionally, according to his close friend Andrey Rublev.

In a first-round defeat by France’s Benjamin Bonzi, former world number one Medvedev cut a desperate and distant figure, raising questions about his mental state.

The Russian-born 29-year-old reacted furiously to a perceived injustice when faced with a third set match point, causing a ferocious New York crowd to yell at the chair umpire.

After eventually falling into a chaotic fifth set and eventually losing the match, Medvedev brutally and demoralized a racquet before sat dejectedly on his chair for a while.

Boris Becker, a six-time Grand Slam champion, advised the player to “seek professional help” as a result of Medvedev’s actions.

Rublev responded, “I don’t know if he wants to change and needs help he has me, a lot of other friends and family that will help him,” adding that he had no idea.

However, if Medvedev approaches Rublev, he is well-equipped to offer wise counsel.

Since meeting as aspiring young Russian players, Medvedev has chosen 27-year-old Rublev to be his godfather for his children. The two have since become close friends.

Rublev regularly practices with a psychologist to get over his mental health issues, which included the aggressive assault on himself on the court with his hands or racquet.

After winning his US Open first-round match on Monday, Rublev said, “I haven’t spoken to him yet.”

I’m going to text him because it was a difficult loss, but I think he needs to wait.