If you’ve ever watched a tennis match and wondered why one guy looks like he’s playing on a miniature court while everyone else looks normal, you’re probably watching Daniil Medvedev. He’s a bit of an anomaly. Most guys that tall move like they’re stuck in mud, but he glides.
So, let's get right to it. How tall is Medvedev? Officially, the ATP lists him at 1.98 meters, which translates to exactly 6 feet 6 inches.
That’s a big deal. Usually, once you hit the 6’6” mark, you’re classified as a "serve bot"—someone who just bombs aces and hopes for a tiebreak because they can't run. Medvedev didn't get that memo. He’s a defensive wall. He covers the baseline like a 6-foot-tall speedster, except he has the wingspan of a small aircraft.
The Tallest World No. 1 Ever
In February 2022, something historic happened. Medvedev hit the top spot in the ATP rankings. Why does that matter for his height? Because he became the tallest World No. 1 in the history of men’s tennis. Before him, the record belonged to Marat Safin and Yevgeny Kafelnikov, both of whom stood around 6’4”. Medvedev basically reset the ceiling for what a top-ranked player looks like.
Honestly, it’s kinda weird when you see him next to guys like Carlos Alcaraz or even Novak Djokovic. Djokovic is roughly 6’2”, and he’s considered "tall" by normal standards. But standing next to Medvedev, Novak looks almost average. It’s those extra four inches that allow Daniil to get his racket on balls that would be winners against anyone else.
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Is He Actually 6'6"? The Great Height Debate
There is always a bit of locker room talk about whether athletes are lying about their height. Some people swear he looks taller.
If you put him next to Alexander Zverev—who is also listed at 6’6”—they look pretty much identical. However, when he stands near 6’11” Reilly Opelka, the difference is massive.
- Medvedev: 6'6" (198 cm)
- Zverev: 6'6" (198 cm)
- Hurkacz: 6'5" (196 cm)
- Djokovic: 6'2" (188 cm)
The "octopus" nickname isn't just because he's tall; it's because of his limbs. His arms are incredibly long. This makes him look even more imposing when he’s stretching for a wide forehand. Sometimes it feels like he can reach the sideline from the middle of the court without even taking a full step.
Why His Height is a Tactical Cheat Code
Being 6'6" gives you a physics advantage on the serve. It’s all about the angle. Since he's hitting the ball from a higher contact point, he can hit down into the box more aggressively.
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But here’s the kicker: Medvedev doesn’t just rely on power. He uses that height to create awkward, flat shots. Most tall players hit with a lot of topspin to keep the ball in. Medvedev hits it flat—like he's slapping the ball with a wet noodle.
It’s frustrating to play against. Ask anyone on tour. They hate it. Because he’s so tall, he doesn’t have to work as hard to generate pace, but his height also means he can sit deep behind the baseline—sometimes nearly touching the back wall—and still have the reach to track down drop shots.
The Weight Factor
You can't talk about his height without mentioning his build. He is lanky. The official stats usually put him around 83 kg (182 lbs).
For a 6’6” guy, that’s incredibly light. This "skinny legend" physique is exactly why he doesn’t suffer from the same knee and ankle issues that plague other giants like Juan Martín del Potro. He isn't carrying a ton of muscle mass, which keeps him light on his feet and allows him to survive those five-hour marathons in the Australian Open heat.
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Basically, he has the height of a center in basketball but the engine of a marathon runner.
Looking Ahead: Can He Stay on Top?
As we move through the 2026 season, Medvedev’s height remains his greatest asset and his biggest challenge. Tall players often see their movement drop off first as they hit their late 20s. Daniil is 29 now. So far, the "Octopus" is still moving just fine.
If you're looking to improve your own game based on the Medvedev model, don't just try to grow six inches—that's impossible. Instead, look at his return position. He uses his reach to stand far back, giving himself time to see the ball. If you're tall and struggling with fast serves, try backing up. Give your long limbs time to unfold.
Keep an eye on his upcoming matches at the majors. Whether he's winning or losing, he’s always the most interesting—and the tallest—tactician on the court. Check the official ATP live scores during his next tournament to see how that reach-to-court-coverage ratio is holding up against the younger, faster generation.