Daniil Medvedev Retires China Open Semifinal After Code Violation Dispute

Daniil Medvedev retired from his China Open semi-final against Learner Tien due to severe cramping, after a heated confrontation with umpire Adel Nour who issued him a code violation for lack of effort. Medvedev, visibly struggling physically, vehemently disputed the violation and accused the referees of trying to intimidate him despite his efforts to continue playing. The Russian demanded the match supervisor come to the court and argued that he was giving his best effort, expressing frustration over what he perceived as unfair treatment following his recent behavioral improvements after a US Open fine. Despite briefly continuing the match, Medvedev ultimately retired while trailing 5-7, 7-5, 4-0, handing Tien a walkover victory and a spot in the final against Jannik Sinner. The incident highlighted Medvedev's ongoing challenges with on-court temper and physical fitness, while marking a breakthrough moment for the 19-year-old American Tien. Medvedev's reaction and retirement sparked debate about the fairness of the umpire's decision and the application of the 'best effort' rule in such circumstances.