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Patrick Mouratoglou explains why Daniil Medvedev’s unusual technique works

Originally posted on HITC | By Cameron Greenlees | Last updated Mar 20, 2026 12:58 PM ET

Why Daniil Medvedev’s unorthodox technique works so well, according to Patrick Mouratoglou

Daniil Medvedev has built a reputation as one of the standout players of his era.

Even with the sport shaped by legends like Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, as well as emerging stars like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, Medvedev’s record holds up remarkably well.

He owns 23 tour-level titles, including a US Open victory, which remains his only Grand Slam title to date.

Some fans, especially those new to the sport, often question how Medvedev manages such high performance levels with what appears to be a very unconventional technique. Patrick Mouratoglou recently shed some light on why it works for him.

Mouratoglou breaks down why Medvedev’s game works

Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images

Speaking on Instagram, Mouratoglou said: “It’s strange to see Medvedev at a high level, if you don’t know him, because of his game style, because of his technique, and of course, his technique is really unique.

“I would not advise this to anybody, and I think if I tried to play like him, I cannot put the ball in. What is important with the technique is to think this way. First, can I accelerate the ball? Very important.

“If I need to accelerate the ball, can I? How much can I do it? And second, in every situation that I’m in, does my technique allow me to have an answer? Do I have an answer on low balls with my forehand?

“Do I have an answer on balls at hip level, on balls between hip and shoulder, and over the shoulder? Do I have the answer on fast balls? Do I have the answer when I’m moved and I have to hit that shot?

“Do I have an answer when I need to counterpunch or an answer when I need to accelerate the ball that has no power?

“And if you’re able to do all that, then there is no problem with your technique. Whether it looks good or not good in the eyes of the specialists doesn’t matter.”

Daniil Medvedev’s first opponent at the Miami Open

After reaching the final of Indian Wells, Medvedev will look to carry that form into his opening match in Miami.

The Russian won the Miami Open in 2023 but hasn’t matched that run since. He lost in the semifinals in 2024 and went out early last year in the second round.

This time around, he’ll begin his campaign against either Aleksandar Kovacevic or Rei Sakamoto.

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

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