"Money, girls, casino, whatever" - Daniil Medvedev predicts big future for Steph Curry-fan Kasidit Samrej after Australian Open 1R scare

Daniil Medvedev predicted a big future for his Australian Open first-round opponent Kasidit Samrej. The Thai tennis player, who is a fan of NBA star Steph Curry, pushed the Russian to the limits but eventually lost in a five-set thriller 2-6, 6-4, 6-3, 1-6, 2-6.

On Tuesday, January 14, Medvedev commenced his Australian Open campaign against World No. 418 Samrej. What was touted to be a straightforward affair for the Russian started that way as he won the first set but it went downhill for him straight after.

The underdog Thai bagged back-to-back sets and looked on his way to a major upset. However, after smashing his racket in the net camera and relieving his frustrations, Medvedev came back a stronger competitor and completed the turnaround losing just three games in the last two sets.

During his post-match on-court interview, the 28-year-old had humorous but positive words for his Thai opponent. Medvedev said:

"But yeah, if he plays like this every match, his life can be good. Money, girls, casino, whatever if he plays like this every match. If he doesn’t then he’s not gonna have it. Maybe not in tennis, he’s gonna make it otherwise!"

Samrej, the first Thai player in a Grand Slam main draw since 2012, recently trained with Novak Djokovic, who offered valuable advice on his serve.

A lifelong Steph Curry fan, Samrej is inspired by the basketball star’s precision as he embarked on his breakthrough at the Australian Open.

The three-time Australian Open runner-up, Medvedev, returned to action after a hiatus to celebrate the birth of his second child. Daniil and his wife, Daria, who already share a two-year-old daughter, Alisa, welcomed their second daughter, Victoria, earlier this month.

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Daniil Medvedev jokes about playing "more tennis" as he completes another five-setter at the Australian Open

Daniil Medvedev at the 2025 Australian Open - Source: Getty

Runner-up to Jannik Sinner in Melbourne last year, Daniil Medvedev played five five-setters en route to the final at the 2024 Australian Open. His 2025 campaign has also started with an over-three-hour-long five-setter. Talking about it during the post-match interview, Medvedev said:

"I know I play better when I play more tennis. So I was like Why play 1 hour and 30 minutes? I need minimum 3 hours at least."

Moreover, the Russian signed the camera, writing:

"5 sets ❤."

In the second round, Daniil Medvedev has been drawn against another young challenger. He will take on Learner Tien who defeated Camilo Carabeli 4-6, 7-6, 6-3, 5-7, 6-4 in the first round.