The pivotal moment unfolded late in the fifth set, as Bonzi, ranked 51st in the world, served for the match at 5-4. A photographer inadvertently stepped onto the court between serves, halting play and triggering a six-minute delay. The chair umpire, Greg Allensworth, controversially reset Bonzi’s serve to a first serve instead of a second, infuriating Medvedev. The Russian confronted the umpire, shouting, “Are you a man? Why are you shaking?” The crowd at Louis Armstrong Stadium erupted, with boos and jeers echoing as order was restored.
The interruption only heightened the tension. Medvedev, energized by the commotion, saved match point and broke Bonzi to level the set. He then edged a tiebreak to force a fourth set, where he delivered a dominant 6-0 performance as Bonzi appeared to struggle physically and took a medical timeout. Despite the Frenchman’s apparent knee issues and the relentless booing from the stands, Bonzi regrouped for the deciding set.
Ultimately, Bonzi sealed the victory with a stunning backhand, sending Medvedev to his chair in frustration where he smashed his racket—a moment widely shared on social media, including Medvedev’s official Instagram. “It was crazy. I may have got some new fans, but also some new non-fans,” Bonzi said after the match. “The energy was crazy. Thanks to all who were booing. Thanks for the energy.”
Medvedev, who has also suffered early exits at the French Open and Wimbledon this year—including a four-set defeat to Bonzi at Wimbledon—voiced his anger in the press conference. He clarified that his frustration was directed at the umpire’s decision, not the photographer. “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, for his part, felt Medvedev crossed a line by inciting the crowd. “He went with the crowd crazy. Honestly, I never saw that. The rule is the rule. The guy went on the court between two serves. It’s not my call to say first serve,” Bonzi said, defending his conduct.
With this upset, Bonzi advances to the second round, while Medvedev faces more questions about his form and temperament during a turbulent 2025 season. For full match statistics and further details, visit the Daniil Medvedev profile on ESPN.