Extraordinary scenes at Flushing Meadows
Daniil Medvedev’s US Open ended in dramatic and controversial fashion as the 2021 champion fell to Benjamin Bonzi in the first round. The Russian, already trailing in the match, was left furious when a photographer mistakenly entered the court during a crucial moment at match point.
The incident occurred with Bonzi serving at 5-4 in the third set. As the Frenchman missed his first serve, a cameraman walked onto the court, forcing umpire Greg Allensworth to allow a replay of the point with a fresh first serve. Medvedev exploded in protest, whipping up the crowd and triggering a six-minute delay.
Medvedev loses composure, Bonzi holds nerve
Although Bonzi initially lost focus amid the chaos and failed to close out the match, he eventually regained control and sealed a stunning five-set victory: 6-3, 7-5, 6-7 (5-7), 0-6, 6-4. The contest stretched close to 1am in New York, with the atmosphere in Louis Armstrong Stadium turning electric as boos rained down from the stands.
Medvedev later admitted he let his emotions show but denied deliberately encouraging the hostile crowd: “I just expressed my emotions, my unhappiness with the decision, and then the crowd did what they did without me asking them too much. It was fun to witness.”
Photographer removed, credential revoked
The photographer, believed to be seeking a spot in the long-lens pit, was quickly escorted away by security. The United States Tennis Association confirmed afterwards that his credential had been revoked for the remainder of the 2025 US Open.
A disastrous season continues
For Medvedev, who has managed just one Grand Slam match win all year, the bizarre episode capped a season of frustration. Once a regular title contender, the Russian’s latest meltdown highlighted both his volatility and the fine margins that continue to shape his declining fortunes on the biggest stages.
