The pivotal moment occurred as Bonzi, serving for the match at 6-3, 7-5, 5-4, was interrupted by the photographer’s intrusion. Chair umpire Greg Allensworth’s decision to reset Bonzi’s serve to a first serve, rather than a second, prompted a heated outburst from Medvedev. The Russian, visibly incensed, confronted the umpire and rallied the crowd, who responded with loud jeers and boos that echoed throughout the stadium. Security quickly removed the photographer and revoked his credentials, but the atmosphere remained charged.
Despite the disruption, Medvedev managed to break back and win the third set in a tiebreak, then dominated the fourth set 6-0 as Bonzi took a medical timeout for a knee issue. However, Bonzi, ranked world No. 51, recovered his composure in the final set, drawing on the support of his team and the crowd’s energy to seal the win with a backhand winner. Medvedev, in a fit of frustration, smashed his racket at the conclusion of the match.
“It was crazy. I may have got some new fans, but also some new non-fans,” Bonzi commented after his victory, acknowledging the wild energy of the New York crowd. Medvedev, meanwhile, became the first former champion to exit this year’s tournament, continuing a challenging season at the majors where he has advanced past the second round only once. In his post-match remarks, Medvedev clarified his anger was directed at the umpire’s decision rather than the photographer, stating, “Every time there’s a sound from the stands between serves, there’s never a second serve. But the umpire gave him a first serve. That’s what made me angry.”
Bonzi later said he felt Medvedev’s behavior had escalated the situation, noting, “Daniil started it, and he put oil on the fire. The rule is the rule. The guy went on the court between two serves. It’s not my call to say first serve.”
This result adds to Medvedev’s recent struggles at major tournaments, following early exits at both the French Open and Wimbledon, where he also lost to Bonzi in four sets (Daniil Medvedev on ESPN). The upset underscores the unpredictability of the 2025 US Open draw and highlights Bonzi’s growing confidence on the Grand Slam stage.
For more details and match statistics, visit the official US Open site and follow updates on Medvedev’s season through his Instagram and the ATP Tour website.