Benjamin Bonzi delivered a stunning upset against Daniil Medvedev during their match at the U.S. Open on Sunday night. The match, held at Louis Armstrong Stadium, was marked by a controversial moment involving a photographer who entered the court just as Bonzi was serving for match point in the third set.
The incident occurred when Bonzi was leading 5-4. Chair umpire Greg Allensworth instructed the photographer to leave the court, which resulted in Bonzi receiving an additional first serve due to the disruption. This decision infuriated Medvedev, who was already on the brink of elimination. The No. 13 seed reacted by yelling at the umpire, gesturing to the crowd, and smashing his racquet multiple times on the court and bench.
Former U.S. Open champion Andy Roddick commented on the situation, saying, "This is just Meddy being Meddy. He loses it and … if I was critical, it would be hypocritical." Roddick recalled Medvedev's previous meltdowns, noting that fans eventually grew to appreciate him.
Despite the outburst, Medvedev rallied to win the next two sets, forcing a fifth set. However, Bonzi ultimately triumphed with a score of 6-3, 7-5, 6-7 (5), 0-6, 6-4, eliminating Medvedev from the tournament early. Medvedev's only Grand Slam title came in 2021 at the U.S. Open, where he defeated Novak Djokovic. He reached the finals again in 2023 but lost to Djokovic in straight sets.
Roddick defended Medvedev's actions, stating, "What other sports is it unsportsmanlike if you just break your own stuff? That's his racket, he can break it if he wants." He added that as long as it does not affect the opponent, it is acceptable behavior.
In other matches on Sunday, American players showcased strong performances. Ben Shelton won his match in straight sets, while Taylor Fritz defeated wildcard entry Emilio Nava. Roddick expressed hope that one of the 23 American men in the draw could end the title drought, noting the talent of players like Shelton, Fritz, Tommy Paul, and Frances Tiafoe.
On the women's side, Jessica Pegula secured a victory against Egypt's Mayar Sherif in her first-round match at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Roddick highlighted the strength of American women in tennis, stating, "Let's be very clear, the women have never stopped winning."
The day also featured 19-year-old Learner Tien competing against four-time U.S. Open champion Djokovic, who won the match 6-1, 7-6 (3), 6-2. Coverage of the U.S. Open continues Monday at 11:30 a.m. ET on ESPN.