US Open Chaos: Medvedev’s Match Disrupted by Photographer
BREAKING: The US Open erupted into chaos today as a photographer stormed onto the court during a pivotal moment in Daniil Medvedev’s first-round match, bringing the game to a shocking halt. The disruption occurred just as Medvedev faced match point against Frenchman Benjamin Bonzi, leading to a spectacular meltdown from the former champion.
The incident unfolded at Louis Armstrong Stadium as Bonzi was serving for the match with a scoreline of 6-3 7-5 5-4. Just moments before his second serve, the photographer entered the court, prompting chair umpire Greg Allensworth to reverse Bonzi’s serve back to his first. This unexpected interruption ignited an explosive reaction from Medvedev, who demanded, “Are you a man? Are you a man? Why are you shaking?” as he stormed toward the umpire’s chair.
Fans filled the stadium with jeers, whistles, and boos, refusing to allow Bonzi to serve in peace. The match was halted for nearly six minutes as the atmosphere intensified. The USTA later confirmed that the photographer was escorted off the court and had their credentials revoked.
Incredibly, the disruption seemed to rejuvenate Medvedev, who rallied to fend off match point and broke back to level the set at 5-5. He then edged the tiebreak, forcing a fourth set. The 2021 champion transformed his performance, handing Bonzi a 6-0 defeat in that set, while his opponent took a medical timeout for a knee issue amid continued boos from the crowd.
As the match progressed into a tense final set, both players exchanged multiple breaks of serve. Bonzi was cheered on by his box with shouts of “Courage!” and “Allez!” as he finally sealed the victory with a stunning backhand, winning the match 6-4 in the fifth set. Medvedev, visibly frustrated, smashed his racket in defeat.
In his post-match comments, Bonzi, now ranked 51 in the world, described the experience as “crazy,” expressing gratitude to the crowd for their energy, saying, “I may have got some new fans, but also some new non-fans.” This victory marks Bonzi’s third consecutive win over Medvedev in their Grand Slam meetings, all of which have ended in the first round.
With this loss, Medvedev becomes the first former champion to exit the tournament this year. His early departure adds to a dismal year in major tournaments, where he has only progressed past the second round once.
As the US Open continues, fans are left to wonder how such unexpected incidents might impact future matches. Medvedev’s reaction and Bonzi’s resilience will certainly be moments to discuss as the tournament unfolds.
