Medvedev’s Shocking US Open Meltdown Leads to Epic Defeat
Daniil Medvedev’s 2025 US Open campaign ended in dramatic fashion, as an explosive meltdown during his first-round match against Benjamin Bonzi derailed the former champion. The Russian star, known for his fiery on-court demeanor, lost control after a photographer disrupted play at a critical moment—a moment that shifted the match’s momentum and left fans stunned.
The Incident That Changed Everything
In a match already filled with tension, Medvedev’s frustration boiled over at a pivotal moment. Trailing in the third set at 5-4, with Bonzi serving for the match, a photographer abruptly walked onto the court between serves. Chair umpire Greg Allensworth ruled that Bonzi should receive another first serve, triggering an outburst from Medvedev.
The 2021 champion erupted, gesturing angrily at the umpire and inciting the New York crowd, which quickly turned raucous in his support. The six-minute delay rattled Bonzi, who was unable to close out the match immediately. Though Medvedev staged a furious comeback, forcing a fifth set, Bonzi ultimately prevailed in an epic 6-3, 7-5, 6-7 (5-7), 0-6, 6-4 victory.
Medvedev’s Emotional Outburst and Crowd Reaction
I just expressed my emotions, my unhappiness with the decision, and then the crowd did what they did without me asking them to, Medvedev said afterward. It was fun to witness.
Indeed, the crowd response was unlike anything seen at Flushing Meadows in recent years. Fans chanted, jeered, and cheered unpredictably, creating an electric—but chaotic—atmosphere. Bonzi later admitted, The energy was wild. I have never experienced anything like that. It was so difficult to play, so noisy. But I tried to stay calm—it was not easy.
The photographer at the center of the controversy was immediately escorted out of Louis Armstrong Stadium, and his tournament credentials were revoked.
A Pattern of Drama in New York
This wasn’t Medvedev’s first volatile moment at the US Open. In 2019, he embraced the role of a villain, trolling fans with sarcastic celebrations before winning them over in a thrilling final against Rafael Nadal. By 2021, he had fully won the crowd, defeating Novak Djokovic for his first Grand Slam title—complete with a humorous celebratory fall.
But this year, his emotions spiraled. After the match, Medvedev sat motionless in his chair, smashing his racket against the bench before breaking down in tears. When asked if he considered retiring mid-match, he admitted, Not today, but when I’m finishing my career, you never know where you want to do it. Today I was, like, ‘this could be a nice place to do it.’
What’s Next for Medvedev?
With this defeat, Medvedev has now lost in the first round of three consecutive Grand Slams—an alarming slump for a player once ranked world No. 1. His furious reaction and emotional post-match comments have raised concerns about his mental resilience and future in the sport.
Will this be a turning point for Medvedev? Or is this the beginning of a prolonged struggle? One thing is certain: his unpredictability ensures he remains one of tennis’s most compelling figures.
Final Thoughts
Medvedev’s US Open meltdown was a perfect storm of frustration, crowd involvement, and high-stakes drama. The incident will be remembered as one of the most chaotic moments in recent tournament history—yet another example of why Medvedev is never far from the spotlight.
