Daniil Medvedev Fined $42,500 for US Open Meltdown

Daniil Medvedev was fined $42,500 by the U.S. Open on Wednesday for his on-court tirade. The Russian tennis star lost his first-round match against Benjamin Bonzi.

What happened?

The incident occurred when a photographer, Selcuk Acar, stepped onto the court at Louis Armstrong Stadium. Acar's media credential was later revoked for not following the rules of the grand slam.

Why it matters for Daniil Medvedev

Medvedev argued with chair umpire Greg Allensworth over the decision to give Bonzi another first serve. He smashed his racket until it was destroyed after the defeat. Medvedev told reporters he was not upset with the photographer, but with the decision.

What comes next?

The fine accounts for more than 38 percent of Medvedev's prize money from the match. Medvedev, 29, has had a tough 2025 major season, winning just one grand slam match. He won the 2021 U.S. Open, but has struggled this year. The U.S. Open stated that Acar disregarded instructions and improperly entered the court. Acar claimed he was "innocent" and a "victim" of the incident. Medvedev's fine includes $30,000 for unsportsmanlike conduct and $12,500 for racket abuse. The incident has sparked controversy in the tennis world. Medvedev's loss to Bonzi was a surprise, given his previous success at the U.S. Open. He will look to bounce back from the defeat and the fine. The 2025 US Open has been marked by controversy and surprises. Medvedev's fine is one of the largest of the tournament so far. He will hope to put the incident behind him and focus on his next match. The Russian tennis star has a lot to prove after a tough start to the 2025 season.