Daniil Medvedev Weighs in on ATP Finals Wild Cards Amid Novak Djokovic Chase

As the battle for qualification spots at the ATP Finals intensifies, former tournament champion Daniil Medvedev has offered a clear perspective on whether legendary players should receive wild cards if they fail to qualify on points. Novak Djokovic, a record seven-time champion of the season-ending event, currently sits 11th in the Live ATP Race to Turin, outside the qualification cut-off.

Speaking during a press conference at the Almaty Open, Medvedev addressed whether exceptional players like Djokovic should be handed direct entry into the tour finals. While many other tennis tournaments routinely offer wild cards to former champions, Medvedev argued that the prestigious year-end event should maintain its strict qualification standards without adding new regulations.

"No, I think no wild cards," Medvedev stated during the media session. He pointed out that the current rulebook already provides a specific pathway for Grand Slam champions who finish outside the top eight. "The only thing, it is a wild card in a way: if you win a Slam and you're not in the top eight, you get a spot, so that's kind of a wild card already. I think this rule is good, and they should not add any other rule."

Djokovic currently holds 2,840 points, sitting 319 points outside the qualification positions. To secure his spot in Turin, the Serbian star needs to overtake competitors such as Alex de Minaur, who has 2,880 points, and Rafael Jodar, who holds 3,159 points. Despite his current standing, Medvedev expressed confidence that Djokovic still has a strong opportunity to make up ground during his remaining matches.

"Look, Novak still has two tournaments to try to make it, and in Beijing he played great. I didn't see any of his matches in Shanghai. He has his chances," Medvedev remarked. He added that if the veteran champion manages to qualify, he will be welcomed by everyone on tour, noting that Djokovic has confirmed his intention to participate if he earns his place.

Medvedev is also actively fighting for his own position and aiming to rack up crucial ranking points during his title defense at the Almaty Open. The Russian player made a dominant start in Kazakhstan, defeating Sho Shimabukuro 6-2, 6-1 in just 52 minutes to advance through the early rounds.

Reflecting on his performance and his current objectives, Medvedev noted the contrast between his campaign this year and his victory at the tournament last season. "I was in a bit of a different position last year; I hadn't won a title in a long time, so, for sure, especially coming into the final, I was a bit nervous. Here, it's a bit different, but I'm chasing some other goals which require winning matches; I'm just trying my best and feeling great so far," he explained.

With the Swiss Indoors and the Paris Masters still ahead on the tennis calendar, the final stretch of the season offers high stakes for multiple top competitors. Djokovic is set to resume his push for Turin at the Swiss Indoors beginning on Monday, October 26, while Medvedev continues his journey in Almaty against French player Terence Atmane.