Medvedev Slapped with Hefty $42,500 Fine for US Open Outburst
The 2025 US Open has already delivered its share of drama, but few moments have ignited as much discussion as Daniil Medvedev's recent on-court meltdown. The former world No. 1 was hit with a substantial $42,500 fine for unsportsmanlike conduct and racket abuse following his first-round loss, a penalty that accounts for over a third of his tournament earnings. This incident has once again put the spotlight on player temperament and the pressures of Grand Slam tennis.
The Controversial Incident Against Benjamin Bonzi
The contentious events unfolded during Medvedev's opening-round match against France's Benjamin Bonzi. The crucial moment arrived in the third set, with Bonzi serving for the match. A photographer inadvertently wandered onto the court, causing a brief interruption. Chair umpire Greg Allensworth subsequently allowed Bonzi to retake his first serve, a decision that visibly infuriated Medvedev.
Medvedev immediately confronted Allensworth, sparking a heated exchange that halted play for over six minutes. During this time, the Russian star engaged with the crowd, urging them to chant for a "second serve" and publicly questioning the umpire's motivation, shouting, "He wants to go home, guys. He doesn't like to be here. He gets paid by the match, not by the hour". Despite winning the third and fourth sets after the disruption, Medvedev ultimately fell to Bonzi in a five-set thriller: 6-3, 7-5, 6-7 (5), 0-6, 6-4.
Breakdown of the Penalty
The US Open tournament referee, Jake Garner, levied two separate fines against Medvedev:
- $30,000 for unsportsmanlike conduct
- $12,500 for racket abuse
The racket abuse charge stemmed from Medvedev repeatedly smashing his racket against his sideline chair after the match concluded, completely destroying the equipment. The total fine of $42,500 significantly impacts his $110,000 prize money from the tournament, underscoring the severity of the penalties for on-court misbehavior.
A Pattern of Outbursts
This isn't Daniil Medvedev's first brush with disciplinary action. Known for his fiery personality, the 2021 US Open champion has a history of similar incidents. Previous fines and warnings for racket smashing and verbal altercations with officials and crowds have marked his career. While his intensity is often a driving force in his game, these repeated outbursts raise questions about emotional control under pressure.
Key Takeaways from the Medvedev Incident:
- Daniil Medvedev received a $42,500 fine at the 2025 US Open for unsportsmanlike conduct and racket abuse.
- The incident occurred during his first-round match against Benjamin Bonzi, triggered by an umpire's decision after a photographer's intrusion.
- Medvedev publicly challenged the umpire and later destroyed his racket.
- The fine represents a significant portion of his tournament earnings.
- This adds to a history of on-court disciplinary issues for the Russian tennis star.
The incident serves as a stark reminder that even top-tier athletes are held to a high standard of conduct, and emotional reactions, however understandable in the heat of competition, can carry a heavy price. As the US Open continues, all eyes will be on the remaining players to maintain composure as the stakes grow higher.