Monte Carlo Masters 2019: Novak Djokovic vs Daniil Medvedev preview and prediction

A match-up between two players having contrasting styles of play is always interesting to watch. But how interesting will a match be if an aggressor plays against an aggressor or a defender against a defender?

The answer - if both the players are in good form, that match-up will be even more exciting. That's because the mental aspect of the game comes into play, with each player displaying a very high level of intensity in his bid to go one-up over a player whose style is similar to their own.

Novak Djokovic and Daniil Medvedev are all set to meet for the fourth time in the quarter-finals of the Monte Carlo Masters tomorrow, which is a classic case of two similar players squaring off against each other. And even though the odds are in favor of Djokovic,he could face a stiff fight from Medvedev.

This will be their first ever meeting on clay; their previous matches were played on hardcourts and grass.

Djokovic came close to his best in a comfortable victory over young American Taylor Fritz, whereas Medvedev had to fight hard to earn a victory over Tsitsipas in three sets.

The duo faced each other in 2019 for the first time in the fourth round of the Australian Open. It was a cracker of match which pushed Djokovic to his limit, even though it got over in four sets. In fact, this was one of just two matches where the Serb dropped a set in the tournament.

Both Djokovic and Medvedev have exceptional backhands, which are considered to be one of the best among their respective peers. Lengthy rallies without too many winners should be expected in this match; it is going to be a tussle of backhands, with frequent cross-court exchanges and out-of-nowhere drop shots.

Since this is a claycourt, there won't be a lot of winners or service aces. Instead, there will likely be some grueling exchanges as both of them try to squeeze out errors from each other.

Because of the experience factor and his ability to play well on the big points, Djokovic might seem like the favorite. But Medvedev won't lack for motivation; if he wants to announce himself to his peers and declare to the world that he is here to stay, there cannot be a better opponent than Djokovic to register a statement victory against.

Match Prediction: Daniil Medvedev to win in three sets.