In his Mann Ki Baat address on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi appreciated Russian tennis player Daniil Medvedev’s humility, simplicity and maturity. He even went on to urge everyone to hear Medvedev’s speech and try and gain something out of it.

Modi especially wanted the youth of the country to watch Medvedev’s speech which he made after he lost to Rafael Nadal in the finals of 2019 US Open. He also added that people across all age groups and from all walks of life can learn from Medvedev’s humble address.

“Just see how on the one hand, victory in the US open was discussed; on the other, runner up Daniil Medvedev’s speech was equally doing the rounds in public discourse, especially on social media. Hence I too heard the speech and watched the match. The sheer simplicity and maturity displayed by the 23-year-old Daniil Medvedev touched everyone. It surely stirred me,” Modi said in his Mann Ki Baat address.

“Moments before this speech, he had suffered defeat at the hands of tennis legend Rafael Nadal, 19 times grand slam winner. An event such as this would have pushed anyone towards remorse and despair; in the case of Medvedev, there was no sign of the slightest pallor on his countenance.

“Rather, his expression lit up the faces of those watching him with meaningful smiles. He won hearts with his humility and simplicity; the epitome of the spirit of sportsmanship in the truest sense that he is, in letter and spirit.

“Spectators welcomed his reflections with warmth and fervour. He also touched upon Nadal being the inspiring force in tennis for millions of young people, adding how difficult it was to face him in the game,” Modi added.

Modi also was quick to highlight the sportsman spirit of Rafael Nadal too.

“The way Medvedev heaped praise on his opponent after a defeat in a fierce duel makes him a living example of the true essence of the spirit of sportsmanship. Of course, on the other hand, champion Nadal too showered glowing praise on Daniil’s game. The display of the indomitable ardour of the defeated and the sheer humility of the victorious in the same frame was a sight to behold.”

“If you haven’t heard Medvedev’s speech yet, I shall urge you, especially young friends to watch this video. It holds much for people across the age and class spectra to see and learn,” Prime Minister Modi added.