Media Blunder Triggers Medvedev Meltdown, US Open Exit
The US Open descended into drama on Sunday after a shocking incident disrupted Daniil Medvedev’s match. As he faced match point in the first round, a photographer stepped onto the court, halting play and sparking a furious reaction from the former champion. Medvedev completely lost his composure, and the chaos ultimately ended with his exit from the tournament in a five-set thriller against Frenchman Benjamin Bonzi.
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The Match Turns Chaotic
Medvedev, the 2021 US Open champion, fell 6-3 7-5 6-7(5) 0-6 6-4 to Bonzi, who at one stage considered walking off the court and even called for Medvedev to be disqualified. The pivotal moment came when Bonzi, serving for the match at 6-3 7-5 5-4, was interrupted by the photographer walking onto the surface just before his second serve.
Chair umpire Greg Allensworth reset Bonzi back to his first serve, and Medvedev erupted. Charging toward the chair, he shouted, “Are you a man? Why are you shaking?” His anger only grew as he accused the umpire of wanting to go home quickly and claimed the official was paid by the match, not by the hour.
Medvedev’s Outburst
Medvedev kept shouting at the umpire, demanding to know, “What did Reilly Opelka say?” He referenced Opelka’s past criticism of Allensworth after an incident at the Dallas Open. The match was stopped for nearly six minutes as boos, whistles, and jeers echoed through Louis Armstrong Stadium. Fans refused to stay silent so Bonzi could continue serving. Eventually, US Open security escorted the photographer out and revoked his credentials.
Djokovic Battles Through
Elsewhere, Novak Djokovic had his own struggles in the opening round despite winning in straight sets against young American Learner Tien. The 6-1 7-6(3) 6-2 scoreline looked straightforward, but the second set lasted a draining 82 minutes. The 38-year-old, drenched in sweat, saved a set point and needed a medical timeout for blister treatment before closing out the win. He now faces Zachary Svajda in round two.
Americans Off to a Strong Start
Taylor Fritz and Ben Shelton both advanced confidently. Fritz, last year’s finalist, overcame Emilio Nava 7-5 6-2 6-3, blasting 11 aces. Runner-up to Jannik Sinner last year, Fritz hopes to emulate Madison Keys and Coco Gauff, who both lifted Grand Slam trophies this season. American men, however, remain in search of a breakthrough, with no US male champion at Flushing Meadows since Andy Roddick’s 2003 victory.
