World No. 2 Daniil Medvedev hit the practice courts here as the countdown to the multi-nation ATP Cup—the first tournament in the New Year—began, with the Russian keen to help his country defend the trophy.

The US Open champion, who is spearheading Russia’s title defence, had a session with Australia’s Alex de Minaur, whom he will meet next week in group play. The 2020 ATP Finals champion returned again mid-afternoon on Tuesday for another session with 20-year-old Australian Rinky Hijikata, who is ranked 375th on the ATP.