Medvedev Loses First-Round US Open Match, Breaks Racquet After Controversy

Daniil Medvedev, a top contender and 2021 US Open champion, suffered a shocking first-round exit at the 2025 US Open after a five-set loss to Benjamin Bonzi. The match was marred by controversy when a photographer walked onto the court during a critical moment, leading the umpire to grant Bonzi another first serve, which enraged Medvedev and caused a six-minute delay. Medvedev vocally expressed his frustration, encouraging the crowd to boo and confronting the umpire, whom he accused of wanting to "go home." Despite rallying back from a near-defeat, Medvedev ultimately lost the match and responded with a dramatic emotional meltdown, aggressively smashing and destroying his racquet in disappointment. This loss capped off a difficult year for Medvedev in Grand Slam tournaments, with early exits at the Australian Open, Roland Garros, and Wimbledon. The incident and Medvedev's reaction have since gone viral, highlighting the intense pressure and frustration he faced during the tournament.