BREAKING: The US Open was thrown into chaos on September 3, 2023, as a photographer unexpectedly entered the court during a crucial match point for former champion Daniil Medvedev. This shocking interruption led to a heated outburst from Medvedev and ultimately contributed to his shocking defeat against Frenchman Benjamin Bonzi with a final score of 6-3, 7-5, 6-7(5), 0-6, 6-4.
The disruption occurred while Bonzi was serving for the match at 5-4 in the third set. Just as he prepared to deliver his second serve, the photographer’s presence halted the game, prompting chair umpire Greg Allensworth to revert Bonzi to his first serve. This incident ignited an astonishing reaction from Medvedev, who shouted, “Are you a man? Why are you shaking?” as he confronted the umpire.
The match was paused for approximately six minutes amid a chorus of jeers and boos from the crowd at Louis Armstrong Stadium. Fans were clearly divided, some cheering for Bonzi while others voiced their support for Medvedev. Following the incident, the United States Tennis Association (USTA) confirmed that the photographer was removed from the venue and had his credentials revoked.
Despite the chaos, Medvedev managed to fend off a match point, leveling the set at 5-5 and pushing the contest into a tiebreak, which he won. However, the momentum shifted dramatically in the fourth set, where Medvedev delivered a “bagel” set to equalize the match. Bonzi, visibly rattled, took a medical timeout due to a knee issue, but the noise from the crowd intensified, with some fans targeting him during his serve.
In a nail-biting final set, both players exchanged multiple breaks, but Bonzi ultimately secured the victory with a stunning backhand, sealing the match and sending Medvedev into a furious rage as he smashed his racket in frustration.
“It was crazy. I may have got some new fans, but also some new non-fans,” said Bonzi, who has now defeated Medvedev in all three of their Grand Slam encounters, each time in the first round.
This loss marks Medvedev as the first former champion to exit this year’s tournament, capping a disappointing year for the Russian, who has only reached the second round at a major once.
Fans and analysts alike are left pondering the implications of this dramatic match. As the US Open continues, all eyes will be on Bonzi to see if he can maintain his momentum in the next round.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops!
