Somdev backs Medvedev to end Big 3’s dominance

Like many analysts, Somdev, expert panellist on Sony Pictures Sports Networks live studio show for Australian Open, was mightily impressed with the gangling Russian's consistency on the North American hard courts towards the end of last season.

Whereas the other younger crop, notably Alexander Zverev, have flattered to deceive, the 23-year-old Medvedev has amply demonstrated that he has what it takes to succeed at the highest level.

Somdev also predicted that the reigning world number one, Rafael Nadal, will either match or even go past his long-time rival Roger Federer's record of 20 Grand Slams in 2020.

On the rise of Medvede I believe this will be a breakthrough season for him because he had reached the final of the US Open taking Rafael Nadal to five sets. That’s really hard to do in itself. He made it to nine finals last season tying with Novak Djokovic but the thing that stands out about him is his mindset. I enjoyed watching him battle against the New York crowd apart from his opponents. He has that killer instinct and he doesn’t care about who he is playing against and focuses only on his performance. I like someone who has that kind of work ethic and professionalism. He certainly has the ability to trouble the Big 3 or even maybe become one of them by the end of the year.

On Nadal breaking Federer's GS tally: I see him surpassing Roger Federer’s tally. He is undoubtedly a favourite for the French Open. He won two Slams last year. But all said and done, I believe Djokovic will end up with the most number of Slams. And don’t count Federer out. He is still playing good tennis. This year will probably be his best chance to win another Slam. He was unlucky not to have won last year’s Wimbledon. He will be dangerous in Melbourne with the quick courts. He has always enjoyed playing there.