Russian tennis star Daniil Medvedev has been fined a total of $42,500 following a dramatic meltdown during his first-round match at the 2025 US Open. The penalty, which amounts to nearly 40% of his prize money for the round, underscores just how costly his outburst proved to be.
The incident unfolded during his match against France’s Benjamin Bonzi, when a photographer walked onto the court at a critical moment. After the umpire allowed the point to be replayed, Medvedev erupted in anger, confronting the official and rallying the crowd into the chaos. The match was delayed for more than six minutes as tensions escalated.
His frustration didn’t end there. After losing the match, Medvedev smashed his racket repeatedly against his chair on the sideline, further fueling the controversy. Tournament officials later confirmed the following penalties:
- $30,000 for unsportsmanlike conduct, including his tirade at the umpire and crowd incitement
- $12,500 for racket abuse, covering the violent destruction of his equipment
While Medvedev is no stranger to emotional flare-ups on court, this fine ranks among the costliest of his career. It also places him alongside some of the sport’s most infamous disciplinary moments, though still far below the six-figure fines handed to players like Novak Djokovic in 2020 or Serena Williams in 2009.
For Medvedev, the incident has sparked debate about emotional control at the elite level of the sport. Some fans defended his passion in the heat of competition, while others argued that such behavior disrespects both the game and its officials.
One thing is certain: at this year’s US Open, Medvedev’s outburst has left a bigger mark than his performance on court—and it came with a steep price tag.