A moment of sporting crossover hilarity unfolded at Melbourne Park, where the reactions of tennis star Daniil Medvedev said more than words ever could. The world number twelve was caught on camera watching Geelong Cats AFL midfielder Bailey Smith compete in the high-stakes 'One Point Slam' for a $1 million prize.
Medvedev's Disbelief at Smith's Forehand Fluff
From the men's locker room, Medvedev looked on in sheer disbelief as the fan-favourite footballer, known for his skills on the Aussie Rules field, overhit what should have been a simple forehand. That costly error saw Smith squander his shot at the life-changing cash, leaving the Russian tennis ace visibly shocked and perhaps contemplating a future career as a private coach for the athlete.
The Unassuming Champion's Fairytale Victory
The fortune instead went to a far more unlikely contender: unassuming Sydney tennis coach Jordan Smith. The 29-year-old, who has played since he was three, qualified via a state championship and then produced a run for the ages. His bombshell victory was sealed after he remarkably eliminated world number two Jannik Sinner en route to the final.
The crowd at Rod Laver Arena erupted when he beat Sinner, but the noise reached fever pitch when Smith defeated world number 117 Joanna Garland to be crowned the ultimate champion. "I can't even speak, it's unbelievable," a stunned Smith said on court. When asked about his plans for the million dollars, he hinted at sensible investments or buying a house with his girlfriend.
Medvedev Looming as Australian Open Dark Horse
While the One Point Slam provided the entertainment, Medvedev remains firmly focused on the main event. The three-time Australian Open finalist, fresh from winning the Brisbane International, is being tipped as a serious threat. Under Australian coach Rohan Goetzke, he has reportedly revamped his game.
He begins his campaign against Dutchman Jesper de Jong on January 18. US tennis great Andy Roddick is among those backing the Russian for a deep run, declaring, "Meddy is back... he's back in the conversation." After his reaction to Bailey Smith's tennis, all eyes will be on Medvedev's own on-court skills in the days to come.
