Daniil Medvedev sparked mayhem at the U.S. Open after a disputed umpire call involving a court photographer led to crowd chaos and a dramatic loss.
Medvedev Meltdown Triggers Mayhem at U.S. Open
A fiery clash in New York
Russian tennis star Daniil Medvedev was at the centre of chaos during his first-round match at the U.S. Open in New York on Sunday, after a controversial umpire decision involving a court photographer spiraled into a dramatic scene that left fans and players stunned.
How the controversy unfolded
The drama began late in the third set against France’s Benjamin Bonzi, when a photographer stepped onto the court during match point. Chair umpire Greg Allensworth ruled the interruption warranted a replay of Bonzi’s first serve, a standard call in tennis. Medvedev, however, erupted in protest, accusing the umpire of weakness and taunting him in front of the crowd.
Crowd reaction and escalating tension
As Medvedev’s anger grew, so did the crowd’s. For more than six minutes, Arthur Ashe Stadium echoed with boos and chants of “second serve,” as the Russian star blew kisses, egged on fans, and clashed with officials. Even his wife, Daria Medvedeva, appeared distraught, holding her head in her hands amid the mayhem.
The match result and aftermath
Despite rallying to extend the match, Medvedev ultimately fell to Bonzi in a five-set thriller: 6-3, 7-5, 6-7(5), 0-6, 6-4. The Russian vented his frustration by smashing rackets—one hurled into the crowd—before exiting the tournament. Bonzi later admitted he considered walking off the court, saying the atmosphere had become too hostile.
Medvedev defends his actions
In a post-match press conference, Medvedev downplayed the controversy, insisting his anger was directed at the umpire’s decision, not the photographer. “I just expressed my emotions,” he said, calling the crowd’s rowdy reaction “fun to witness.”
Why it matters for the U.S. Open
The U.S. Open, long known for its lively and unpredictable crowds, has seen similar flare-ups in past years. Medvedev himself has a history of clashing with fans at Flushing Meadows, cementing his reputation as one of the sport’s most polarizing figures. This latest meltdown, however, has reignited debate over player behaviour, fan involvement, and the volatile atmosphere that makes the New York Grand Slam unlike any other.
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