Has a multi-cultural background. His great-grandparents were Russians who fled the Tsar and emigrated to America. Immigration officials there did not like the family name of Mednikov – so it was changed for them to Mednick. Born in America of an American father and a Swedish mother and he went to live in Sweden at the age of eight. He soon acquired a good friend in Christian Hardin, who went on to win The Amateur Championship at Royal Porthcawl. Knocked out in one of the earlier rounds, he caddied for Hardin for the rest of the week, and he also caddied for him in the Masters Tournament at Augusta National the following April. Had a distinguished amateur career before turning professional in 1989. But a back injury halted his progress and spent time on the Challenge Tour before reclaiming his card at the 2001 Qualifying School finals, where he finished 31st. Ensured a return trip would not be necessary with victory in the 2002 North West of Ireland Open at Ballyliffin Golf Club. Will play on The 2006 European Tour on a medical exemption after suffering back problems and missing most of 2005.