Russian tennis star and world number 4 Daniil Medvedev confirmed that he will play under the neutral flag at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

According to the rules of the International Tennis Federation (ITF), players from Russia and Belarus could take part in the upcoming Olympics, but only as neutrals without flags, emblems or anthems.

Russians and Belarusians were banned from international competitions following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Speaking before his Indian Wells match, Medvedev confirmed that he would be playing under the neutral flag at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

“If I can, I’m going to be there. I’m going to play singles and doubles. When I was in Tokyo it was an amazing experience. It was probably one of the biggest memories of my sporting life, which I was surprised (by) because in tennis, we tend to think that the Grand Slams are more important,” said Medvedev.

“About the neutral flag, I’ll follow the rules. If it’s under a neutral flag I’ll play under a neutral flag and I’m going to try to compete there, show good tennis and try to win, for sure,” Medvedev added.

Born in Moscow, Russia, Medvedev’s career took a significant upturn in 2018 when he clinched his first ATP title, setting the stage for a glittering career. By 2019, Medvedev had made an indelible mark by entering the top-10 rankings for the first time, following a spectacular run that included reaching six consecutive tournament finals, notably at the US Open.

Medvedev’s relentless pursuit bore fruit in 2021 when he won his first and till-date only Grand Slam title, clinching the US Open, denying Novak Djokovic in a memorable final.

This victory was a highlight in a career already adorned with 20 ATP Tour singles titles, including the 2020 Nitto ATP Finals and six Masters titles. His ability to win Masters Championships in six distinct locations underscores his adaptability and skill on various surfaces.

In February 2022, Medvedev became just the third Russian man to become the number 1 ranked men’s singles player in the world.

This year, he reached the final of the opening Grand Slam of the new season. However, he was undone by Italy’s Jannik Sinner in the final of the Australian Open to deny Medvedev his second Grand Slam title. This was the second timer that the Russian lost in the final of the Australian Open, succumbing to Rafael Nadal in the 2022 final despite being two sets up.