Medvedev openly stated he dislikes HEAD balls, claiming the timer rule allows some to exploit loopholes, implicitly criticizing Nadal.

Russian star Daniil Medvedev criticized the tournament balls and the controversial timer rule in a post-match press conference, using sharp language and even citing Nadal as an example to highlight perceived double standards in rule enforcement.

Known as a meticulous "ball critic" in tennis, Medvedev expressed strong dissatisfaction with certain brands of balls after the match.

“As I understand, Penn is under HEAD, and I really dislike HEAD balls,” Medvedev stated bluntly. “I clearly said after Rotterdam that after hitting these balls for two minutes, they are no longer round.” He further compared, “Dunlop balls are not my favorite, but at least they are round. That matters a lot to me.”

These remarks quickly sparked heated discussions among fans. Some joked online, “Unbelievable! How can he tell the balls aren’t round?” Others pointed out that top players are extremely sensitive to ball feel; deformation affects spin and bounce, so Medvedev’s complaint isn’t nitpicking.

Beyond equipment grievances, Medvedev also targeted the timer rule heavily promoted by ATP in recent years. He believes this rule, intended to speed up play, is too subjective in practice and has become a tool for some players to exploit.

“This is a very tricky issue. The timer is too subjective,” Medvedev described a common match scenario. “You play a 40-shot rally, ending with a shot to the corner… When you look at the timer, only five seconds remain. I think: what just happened?”

He observed that some players exploit rule loopholes to gain extra seconds of rest. “Some players abuse this, gaining a few seconds. They claim issues with their ball toss or similar things.” Medvedev didn’t name anyone, but his next comments clearly hinted.

To illustrate the point vividly, Medvedev mentioned Nadal’s example. The Spanish legend is famous for his fixed, somewhat lengthy pre-serve routines (like adjusting shorts, smoothing hair, touching his face), often putting him near the time limit.

The Russian player remarked with slight sarcasm that if the timer rule exists, it should be enforced impartially. “I hope the umpire applies the rule equally strictly in such situations.” The implication is that referees often show leniency towards habitual longer-preparation players like Nadal while being stricter with others.

This statement unsurprisingly caused a stir in tennis circles. Some fans supported Medvedev on social media: “He’s telling the truth; rules should apply equally to all.” But Nadal’s supporters countered: “Rafa’s actions are consistent habits, not intentional delays; referees understand.”

Currently, ATP has not responded to Medvedev’s comments. However, discussions about ball standards and timer enforcement are clearly becoming another hot topic in tennis.(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Lu Xiaotian)