Taylor Fritz and Daniil Medvedev have firmly established themselves among the top players in men’s tennis. Despite their consistent performances and deep runs in major tournaments, one lingering question remains: Do they need to develop a stronger net game to reach the next level?
A Missing Piece in Their Game
Both Fritz and Medvedev have recently focused on improving their transition play, particularly their approach shots and volleys. However, the fact that this evolution is happening at a relatively late stage in their careers raises concerns. Players who are hesitant or uncomfortable at the net often compensate by overhitting from the baseline, leading to unforced errors and missed opportunities. This vulnerability was evident in their early exits at the 2025 Australian Open, where opponents systematically exposed their weaknesses in net play.
A Systemic Issue in Player Development?
The challenges faced by Fritz and Medvedev highlight a broader issue in player development. Modern coaching systems prioritize groundstrokes, fitness, and mental resilience, often at the expense of net skills. This trend has resulted in a generation of players who dominate from the baseline but struggle when forced to transition forward.
By contrast, rising stars like Carlos Alcaraz, Frances Tiafoe, Tommy Paul, Ben Shelton, and Sebastian Korda demonstrate the benefits of a more versatile playing style. Their ability to seamlessly integrate net play into their game gives them a competitive edge in high-pressure situations.
While neither Fritz nor Medvedev needs to transform into serve-and-volley specialists like Patrick Rafter or Stefan Edberg, a more well-rounded approach could be the key to unlocking their full potential. Developing a reliable net game could help them become more unpredictable, shorten points, and reduce physical strain over long matches.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 season progresses, it will be interesting to see if Fritz and Medvedev make significant strides in their transition play. Their success may depend on whether they can embrace a more aggressive, all-court approach rather than relying solely on their formidable baseline games.