Former world number one Daniil Medvedev saw his US Open 2025 campaign come to an ugly end after a dramatic five-set first-round loss to Benjamin Bonzi. The Russian star, who won the US Open title back in 2021, lost his cool during the heated contest, resulting in a fine that cost him more than one-third of his prize money.
Medvedev’s behaviour on court turned controversial after a disputed call involving chair umpire Greg Allensworth triggered an outburst. The Russian delayed play for over six minutes, engaging the crowd in a fiery back-and-forth exchange. His sarcastic remark about the umpire — claiming “He wants to go home, guys” — further escalated the situation, drawing boos and cheers in equal measure.
The USTA handed down a $42,500 penalty, including $30,000 for unsportsmanlike conduct and $12,500 for racket abuse, after Medvedev smashed his racket multiple times against his chair. The sanction significantly reduced his $110,000 prize money from the first-round appearance.
Speaking after the match, Medvedev admitted he expected the punishment, recalling how fellow player Reilly Opelka had faced a similar fine: “I’m getting a big enough fine, so if I speak, I’m in big trouble.”
The defeat marked the fourth consecutive Grand Slam first-round exit for Medvedev, capping off a disastrous 2025 season where his overall Slam record slumped to 1-4, compared to a strong 18-4 performance in 2024. Once a dominant figure inside the ATP top 10, Medvedev has now slipped outside for the first time in over six years.
Meanwhile, Benjamin Bonzi capitalized on the drama to secure a five-set win, later rallying from two sets down in the second round against Marcos Giron. He will now face fellow Frenchman Arthur Rinderknech in the third round.
