The turning point came late in the third set as Bonzi served for the match. A photographer unexpectedly stepped onto the court during Bonzi’s second serve on match point, forcing play to be halted. Chair umpire Greg Allensworth awarded Bonzi a first serve after the interruption, which infuriated Medvedev. The Russian, already trailing, confronted the umpire and accused him of unfairness, igniting jeers and boos from the Louis Armstrong Stadium crowd. The incident caused a six-minute delay, with both players visibly unsettled.
Despite the chaos, Medvedev managed to save match point, broke back, and won the third-set tiebreak to force a fourth set. Riding the momentum, he dominated the fourth set 6-0 as Bonzi took a medical timeout for a knee concern. The crowd continued to be vocal, targeting Bonzi during his service games.
In a tense final set, Bonzi regained composure, encouraged by his team, and sealed victory with a backhand winner. Medvedev responded by smashing his racket in frustration. Post-match, Bonzi admitted the hostile atmosphere was unlike anything he had experienced, saying, “It was crazy. I may have got some new fans, but also some new non-fans. Thanks to all who were booing. Thanks for the energy.”
Medvedev, who becomes the first former champion eliminated from this year’s tournament, expressed frustration at the umpire’s decision, stating, “I wasn’t upset with the photographer, I was upset with the decision. Every time there’s a sound between serves, it’s not a first serve. But the umpire gave him a first serve. That’s what made me angry.”
With this result, Medvedev’s disappointing run at majors in 2025 continues—he has reached the second round just once this year. Bonzi advances, while the US Open crowd witnessed one of the most chaotic and memorable matches in recent tournament history.
For full match details and official updates, visit the US Open News page or follow @atptour for more coverage.