Daniil Medvedev found himself at the center of controversy just days after his explosive US Open meltdown that cost him far more than a tennis match. The No. 13 seed’s heated confrontation with officials during his first-round loss has now hit him where it really hurts: his wallet. What started as frustration over a questionable call spiraled into a nearly six-minute spectacle that left fans buzzing and tournament officials reaching for their penalty book.
How Did the US Open Incident Get Daniil Medvedev in Trouble?
Medvedev’s ire was sparked when chair umpire Greg Allensworth called for Benjamin Bonzi’s first serve to be replayed after a cameraman entered the court and interrupted his match-point serve in the third set. The decision sparked loud jeers from the crowd, but it only escalated Medvedev’s fury.
The 29-year-old Russian approached the umpire while encouraging the spectators to keep jeering. He was also heard accusing Allensworth of rushing through the match and suggesting he was paid per match rather than by the hour.
The crowd erupted as Allensworth urged them to let the play continue. However, Medvedev spurred their boos at Louis Armstrong Stadium, which echoed for nearly six minutes and brought play to a complete halt.
Daniil Medvedev was visibly upset after a camera person walked on the court at match point. pic.twitter.com/5wnVf2GSFm
— ESPN (@espn) August 25, 2025
The match eventually continued after the extended delay, but the disruption cost Bonzi the fourth set. Despite this advantage, the Frenchman returned stronger and secured a 6-3, 7-5, 6-7(5), 0-6, 6-4 triumph to secure his second consecutive Grand Slam win over the Russians. Medvedev not only faced yet another first-round Grand Slam exit this season, but his actions later led to substantial financial penalties.
Recent reports confirm that the former US Open champion was fined $42,500, representing 38.6% of his $110,000 US Open prize money, for his meltdown on Sunday. His troubles didn’t end there, as he also received a $30,000 fine for unsportsmanlike conduct and a $12,500 fine for racquet and equipment abuse.
Breaking:
Daniil Medvedev has been fined $42,500 for his meltdown in his #USOpen first round loss on Sunday, 38.6% of his $110,000 prize money.
$30,000 for unsportsmanlike conduct and $12,500 for abuse of racquets/equipment.
— Ben Rothenberg (@BenRothenberg) August 27, 2025
It is worth noting that Medvedev’s emotions continued to boil over even after the match concluded, as he was seen smashing his racket on the court while sitting on the sidelines, visibly frustrated with the outcome.
What Explanation Did Daniil Medvedev Give After His First Round US Open Controversy?
Medvedev shared his side of the story upon reflecting on his conduct after the match. He clarified that he was not angry at the photographer but frustrated with the umpire’s decision to replay the serve.
“I was not upset with the photographer… it was nothing special. Every time there’s a sound from the stands between serves, there is never a second serve. But, well, that helped me get back into the match. It was a fun moment to live. I wasn’t upset with the photographer. I was upset with the decision,” he said in his post-match press conference.
Medvedev says he wasn’t upset with the photographer in the Bonzi match, he was upset with the umpire’s decision, ‘Every time there’s a sound from the stands between serves, there is never a 2nd serve’
“Can you just explain the origins of what made you upset?
Daniil: “I was not… pic.twitter.com/gXw9K8HfyK
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) August 25, 2025
Medvedev’s first-round loss at the US Open marked his third consecutive early exit in Grand Slam events during the 2025 season, following similar disappointing results at the French Open and Wimbledon. His best showing this season remains a second-round finish at the Australian Open, far below his established championship level. Still, he will be eager to bounce back and improve his performance in upcoming tournaments as he looks to regain his form.
