Medvedev fined over $42,000 for US Open meltdown and racket smash

Former US Open champion Daniil Medvedev has been fined a total of $42,500 for his behavior during a chaotic first-round exit from the tournament. The Russian star's meltdown was triggered by a courtside photographer who walked onto the court during a crucial moment in his match against France's Benjamin Bonzi.

The fine, issued by the United States Tennis Association, includes a $30,000 penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct and an additional $12,500 for smashing his racket against a chair. The total amount is a significant portion of the prize money he received for his first-round appearance.

The incident occurred as Medvedev faced a match point at 5-4 in the third set. A photographer encroached on the playing surface between Bonzi's first and second serves. An incensed Medvedev was furious when the umpire, Greg Allensworth, ruled that Bonzi should get another first serve. The former world number one then marched over to the official, inciting the New York crowd and creating a tense scene that delayed the match for over six minutes.

Although Bonzi was unable to serve out the victory in the chaotic atmosphere, Medvedev's comeback effort eventually fell short. After the match, a visibly frustrated Medvedev brutally destroyed his racket before leaving the court. When asked about a potential fine, Medvedev hinted at the punishment, stating, "I'm getting a big enough fine, so if I speak, I'm in big trouble, so I'm not going to speak."