Daniil Medvedev’s latest match at the Six Kings Slam had everything—big names, big plays, and a massive check for Medvedev, despite losing in straight sets to Jannik Sinner. Medvedev, baffled and visibly frustrated on the court, fell 6-0, 6-3 to the World No. 1 in a mere 68 minutes. But he walked away with a staggering $1.5 million, thanks to the minimum payout awarded to all players in this non-ATP sanctioned event. The payoff didn’t go unnoticed, especially as fans took to social media to share their reactions.
Tennis fans on X (formerly Twitter) had a field day with the irony. The Tennis Letter’s post, “Medvedev made 1.5 million for his 68-minute loss… $21,739 per minute, $362 per second,” quickly went viral, sparking a mix of admiration and mockery. One user quipped, “1.5 million is the going price for just showing up 🥂 Medvedev is deserving 👏 Rules are Rules 😉.” Another teased, “Daniil just came for the check and dipped. He said he got mouths to feed 🤣.”
While the $1.5 million minimum payout for participants in the tournament raised eyebrows, it’s small change compared to the $6 million prize awaiting the champion—no ranking points, just pure cash. Medvedev, currently ranked No. 5 in the world, has been candid in the past about how tennis prize money dwindles after taxes, travel, and team expenses, which he once explained, “leave very little for the players themselves.”
Still, fans haven’t let up on Medvedev’s recent dry spell, with some calling his prize excessive. One user wrote, “So excessive and ridiculous,” while another took a lighter jab, “Not too bad. Could’ve kept it within 60 mins tho.” Despite deep runs in major tournaments this season, Medvedev has missed out on titles, a trend fans hope he can reverse as the season progresses. For now, he’s left with a hefty check and a storm of social media reactions.
