World No. 11 Daniil Medvedev‘s troubled history with clay courts reached a new low after a shocking first-round loss to Great Britain’s Cameron Norrie at the 2025 French Open. The Russian ace, always forthcoming with his opinions about the red clay, gave a typically blunt post-match interview that highlighted his frustration.
Medvedev, clearly agitated after the four-set loss (3-6, 7-5, 6-3, 6-2), did not mince words in his press conference. “Honestly, man. I might skip the clay season next year,” he said, shaking his head. “F*ck clay.”
This unfiltered statement, while not shocking to those who know Medvedev’s troubled career on the surface, went viral within a few hours. The 2021 US Open champion has notoriously struggled to adjust to clay, frequently at odds with its slower pace, higher bounce, and longer rallies.
While there has been some improvement in recent times, including a semi-final appearance at the 2023 Monte Carlo Masters, Medvedev has never fully adjusted to the surface. His latest loss to Norrie could be the last straw as he is contemplating skipping the entire clay season.
This year’s early departure follows a trend of disappointing performances at Roland Garros for the 28-year-old. Aside from a quarterfinal showing in 2021, Medvedev has not been able to make a significant run in Paris, typically facing massive upsets or unable to cope with the surface’s specific requirements.
Whether or not he acts on the threat, Medvedev’s future remains uncertain. His outburst is not merely a matter of individual disdain for the surface, but also an indication of deep frustration with performance that has consistently failed to live up to his high expectations.
In the meantime, fans and commentators alike will watch intently for how Medvedev readjusts his calendar to skip clay season once and for all.
