'Daniil Medvedev utilizes pirate websites for US Open match streaming amidst Disney-Charter controversy'

Top-ranked tennis player Daniil Medvedev admits to using "pirate websites" to stream U.S. Open matches due to ongoing disputes between companies.

In a recent press conference, top-ranked men's tennis player Daniil Medvedev revealed that he has resorted to using "pirate websites" to stream U.S. Open matches due to an ongoing dispute between the Walt Disney Co. and Charter Communications, the owner of Spectrum. Medvedev, who emerged as the 2021 U.S. Open champion, made this admission after his Round of 16 victory over Australia's Alex de Minaur.

During the post-match press conference, Medvedev was asked if he planned to watch the quarterfinal matches between Novak Djokovic and American Taylor Fritz, as well as Frances Tiafoe and fellow American Ben Shelton. In response, Medvedev humorously stated, "Funny, I was waiting for this question because I guess in a lot of hotels they have Spectrum. So, I cannot watch it on TV anymore." He further explained, "I don't know if it's legal or illegal, but I have to find a way because I cannot watch it on TV. So, I go on the internet and probably this, how you call it, pirate websites or something, I watch tennis there."

According to the Associated Press, approximately 15 million cable TV subscribers have been left without access to ESPN and other Disney-affiliated networks due to a dispute over a new distribution deal. Medvedev expressed his frustration, stating, "I have no other choice," and mentioned that he would resort to watching the matches on his phone if an agreement is not reached.

As of Tuesday, no deal had been reached, leaving viewers uncertain about accessing the matches. Medvedev's next quarterfinal matchup is against Russian tennis player Andrey Rublev on Wednesday.

It is unfortunate that Medvedev, as a top-ranked tennis player, is facing difficulties in watching the matches due to the ongoing dispute between Walt Disney Co. and Charter Communications. However, his resourcefulness in using alternative methods, such as "pirate websites," to stream the matches reflects his determination and passion for the sport. The lack of access to ESPN and other Disney-affiliated networks has left millions of cable TV subscribers without the ability to watch the U.S. Open, highlighting the impact of this dispute on sports fans. Hopefully, a resolution can be reached soon so that viewers can enjoy the matches without any disruptions.

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