Daniil Medvedev says the date of the Northern Palmyra Trphies made it "convenient" for him to take part in St. Petersburg exhibition, and admits the fact that he could also bring his family and spend some time with them in the city also contributed to his decision.
This weekend, Medvedev returned to St. Petersburg for the first time in five years and he is competing at a mixed team exhibition tournament. The 2021 US Open champion's decision to sign up for a Russian exhibition didn't sit well with some. But the 29-year-old has no regrets as he wants to have some good time and also entertain the local crowd.
Medvedev: There are many reasons for my decision to play St. Petersburg exhibition
"Actually, there are many reasons. One of the main ones is that it's a tournament anyway, even if it's an exhibition one. And when you plan them, you choose which ones to play. The most convenient time is mid-to late December. Otherwise, you simply won't have enough time to rest and prepare for the next season," the former world No. 1 told Championat.
"There are many reasons. But the most important thing is that I arrived early, with my family. We're having a great time here. And even though it's an exhibition tournament, I'll try to play my best to please the Russian publicboth in the stadium and on TV. And I'm very happy to be back here."
At the Northern Palmyra Open, Medvedev is sharing the same group with Karen Khachanov, Veronika Kudermetova and Yulia Putintseva. Alexander Bublik, Tallon Griekspoor, Anastasia Potapova and Diana Shnaider were placed in the other group.
Meanwhile, Medvedev played regularly at the ATP 250 tournament in St. Petersburg while it was still a part of the ATP calendar. The Russian made five consecutive appearances in St. Petersburg between 2016 and 2020, and won the title in 2019.
