A tense US Open match between French player Benjamin Bonzi and Russia’s Daniil Medvedev ended in controversy after a photographer’s intrusion disrupted the game. Bonzi, who had a commanding lead in the third set, ultimately triumphed over the 13th seed in an intense and elongated conflict stretching over three hours and 45 minutes. The match took a caustic turn when a photo journalist inadvertently stepped onto the court, an event deemed “outside interference” by chair umpire Greg Allensworth, prompting the awarding of a replay to Bonzi on a key serve. This decision incensed Medvedev, who accused Allensworth of not wanting to be there and questioned his integrity in front of a disruptive crowd. The delay significantly affected Bonzi’s composure, providing Medvedev the momentum to force a tiebreak, but ultimately the Frenchman regained his footing to win in five sets, proving a dramatic test of nerves against a former champion. Medvedev, who once found energy in crowd jeers, reacted passionately to this defeat, smashing his racket in frustration, and leaving Flushing Meadows after a year of underwhelming performances in major tournaments.
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/sports/2025/8/25/daniil-medvedev-exits-us-open-after-photographer-incident-on-match-point?traffic_source=rss
