Medvedev Fined After Fiery US Open Exit

Former US Open champion Daniil Medvedev has been hit with a heavy fine following his dramatic first-round elimination in New York, Sport360NG reports.

The 29-year-old Russian, who lifted the title in 2021, crashed out after a tempestuous defeat to France’s Benjamin Bonzi, with his frustration boiling over after a mid-match disturbance involving a court-side photographer.

The United States Tennis Association confirmed Medvedev has been sanctioned a total of $42,500 (around £31,500). The penalty includes $30,000 for unsportsmanlike conduct and a further $12,500 for smashing his racket against a courtside chair. The punishment wipes out roughly 40% of his prize money from the opening round.

The flashpoint came late in the third set as Bonzi prepared to serve at 5-4. A photographer strayed onto the court between the Frenchman’s first and second serves, prompting umpire Greg Allensworth to allow a replay of the first serve. Medvedev, furious with the decision, stormed towards the chair umpire, whipping the New York crowd into a frenzy as he protested.

Play was halted for over six minutes while order was restored, and although Bonzi initially faltered, Medvedev forced the match into a deciding set before eventually succumbing in five.

Visibly distraught, Medvedev vented his anger by destroying a racquet before slumping in his chair in silence. Asked about the incident afterwards, he admitted he expected the repercussions:

“I’m getting a big enough fine, so if I speak, I’m in big trouble,” he said.