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Daniil Medvedev says he has no regrets missing Six Kings Slam in Saudi Arabia

Originally posted on HITC | By Liam McMillen | Last updated Oct 16, 2025 2:53 PM ET

Daniil Medvedev has shared his thoughts on missing out on the Six Kings Slam in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Carlos Alcaraz is leading the way at this year’s event, aiming to win the trophy for the first time.

Jannik Sinner, Taylor Fritz, and Novak Djokovic are among those standing in his way, with Alexander Zverev and Stefanos Tsitsipas already eliminated early.

Medvedev took part in 2024 but a dip in form meant he missed out on qualifying for this year’s tournament and the prize money that comes with it.

While competing at an ATP 250 event in Almaty, Medvedev addressed missing out on a trip to Riyadh.

Medvedev content to play Almaty Open instead of Six Kings Slam

Medvedev has found some form again, reaching the semi-finals at both the Shanghai Masters and the China Open under new coach Thomas Johansson.

He’s aiming to break back into the top 10 before 2026 kicks off, a goal that’s taken him to the Almaty Open.

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Speaking at the Almaty Open in Kazakhstan, he said: “It’s actually a bit more complicated. First, as far as I know, it’s not $1.5 million per player — it depends on several factors.”

Medvedev lost to eventual winner Sinner in the first edition of the tournament back in 2024 but is not part of this year’s event.

This time around, he seems more interested in climbing up the rankings than playing an exhibition event.

“Since I’ve dropped in the rankings, I understood that I probably wouldn’t be invited because they usually take the top six – last year they only made an exception for Rafa [Nadal].

“So I entered the tournament in Kazakhstan, and once I commit to something, I follow through. Maybe there were some discussions elsewhere, but generally if I’ve agreed to play somewhere, I keep my word.”

“That’s why I’m here and don’t regret it. Besides, I need ranking points and real match play so we’ll try to deliver some good tennis.”

Medvedev’s approach to 2026 is already showing signs of maturity

After a difficult stretch in 2025, Medvedev is approaching the new season with a notably positive mindset.

It’s been a few years since he last played at the Almaty Open, which was held in Astana as an ATP 500 event back in 2022.

This year, Medvedev has turned to the tournament as part of his effort to rebuild his ranking. There have already been signs of improvement following his early exit from the US Open.

He enters as the second seed and has a genuine chance to claim his first title since 2023.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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