Becker Urges Medvedev Professional Help After US Open Meltdown

Daniil Medvedev experienced a highly publicized meltdown during his US Open first-round loss to Benjamin Bonzi, marked by a tirade against umpire Gregory Allensworth and inciting the crowd to jeer, which delayed play for six minutes. The controversy began when a photographer inadvertently stepped onto the court, leading the umpire to allow Bonzi a second first serve, a decision that enraged Medvedev. Following his defeat, Medvedev smashed his racket multiple times and is expecting a heavy fine for his conduct, though he denied deliberately provoking the crowd. Six-time Grand Slam champion Boris Becker and coach Brad Gilbert publicly suggested that Medvedev needs professional help to manage his emotional outbursts, citing a pattern of recent meltdowns. Medvedev's close friend Andrey Rublev has offered support, emphasizing that Medvedev may seek help if he chooses, while former player Patrick McEnroe recommended Medvedev take the rest of the year off to reset. The incident has also resulted in the photographer being banned from the tournament for the remainder of the event.