Daniil Medvedev's US Open Outburst: Racket Smashing and Controversy

On August 24, 2025, Daniil Medvedev's match at the US Open turned chaotic when a photographer unexpectedly entered the court at a critical moment. The Russian tennis player was facing French competitor Benjamin Bonzi when play was halted, leading to a controversial decision by the chair umpire.

As Bonzi prepared for his second serve, the disruption prompted the umpire to allow him another first serve. This ruling ignited Medvedev's fury. “Are you a man? Are you a man? Why are you shaking?” he yelled at the umpire, visibly agitated.

Medvedev's frustration escalated as he continued, “He wants to go home, guys, he doesn’t like it here. He gets paid by the match, not by the hour.” The crowd responded with boos, and the match was paused for over six minutes while the situation unfolded.

Eventually, the photographer was escorted out of Louis Armstrong Stadium, with the United States Tennis Association confirming that his credentials had been revoked. Once play resumed, Bonzi capitalized on the disruption, ultimately defeating Medvedev with a score of 6-3, 7-5, 6-7 (5), 0-6, 6-4.

After the match, Medvedev was seen in a fit of rage, smashing his racket multiple times before exiting the court. Bonzi reflected on the atmosphere, stating, “It was crazy. I may have got some new fans, but also some new non-fans. The energy was crazy. Thanks to all who were booing. Thanks for the energy.”

Ranked No. 51 in the world, Bonzi remarked that he had never experienced anything like it, noting the overwhelming noise from the crowd. Medvedev's defeat marked him as the first former champion to exit this year's tournament.

In a post-match press conference, Medvedev attempted to clarify his outburst. “I wasn’t upset with the photographer; I was upset with the decision,” he explained. “Every time there’s a sound from the stands between serves, there’s never a second serve. But the umpire gave him a first serve. That’s what made me angry.”

Despite his frustration, Medvedev acknowledged the crowd's passion. “I thought, ‘I’m losing the match.’ I didn’t break him once... I got emotional,” he said. He even mused about potentially ending his career with a match at the US Open, expressing his love for New York and appreciation for the crowd's support.

Bonzi, however, had a different perspective on the incident. “Daniil started it, and he put oil on the fire,” he stated. “The rule is the rule. The guy went on the court between two serves. It’s not my call to say first serve. I felt I didn’t do anything bad in the match to receive this treatment.”

The 2025 US Open commenced on August 24 and will conclude on September 7.