Adam Walton shocked third-round predictions by defeating Daniil Medvedev in the first round of the 2026 French Open on May 26 in Paris. The Australian wildcard won 6-2, 1-6, 6-1, 1-6, 6-4 on Court Suzanne Lenglen, ending Medvedev's campaign early in a match that lasted about three hours and 22 minutes [1, 2, 3].
Medvedev, the former world number one seeded sixth at Roland Garros, has now exited in the first round seven times in his ten appearances at the tournament [4, 5]. He expressed frustration with his struggles on the slow clay courts and the modern style of play that has become more physically intense. "It's very tough for me to get the rhythm going. First round is the toughest one," he said, but added he will continue to compete at Grand Slams and may adjust his tournament schedule next year to improve results [4, 5].
The 27-year-old Walton, ranked 97th in the world and from Brisbane, credited his previous win over Medvedev at the 2025 Cincinnati Open for confidence. "It’s huge. That win in Cincinnati definitely gave me the belief. I believed and I’m really excited right now," Walton said [2]. He also welcomed the hot weather during the match, saying, "We grew up in the heat. I really like it when it’s hot in Paris," as temperatures reached 32 degrees Celsius [2].
Medvedev spoke about considering playing lead-up tournaments before Grand Slams next year, a change from his usual preparation routine. "Maybe I should consider playing a tournament before. I usually don't do that before Grand Slams, but when it doesn't work, why not?" he said [4].
Walton will next face American Zachary Svajda, who defeated fellow Australian Alexei Popyrin in the first round [1, 2, 3]. The match ended one of the early surprises of the tournament and left Medvedev reflecting on his future clay court approach.
