Russian tennis star Daniil Medvedev found himself at the centre of a storm during his US Open second-round clash against Australia's Christopher O'Connell, but the drama wasn't solely contained within the lines of the court.
In a moment that quickly went viral, the 2021 champion launched into a furious tirade against a courtside photographer, his temper flaring in the intense New York humidity. The incident occurred during a critical phase of the match on the famed Arthur Ashe Stadium.
'I Will Hit You With The Racket'
Visibly agitated, Medvedev approached the chair umpire and issued a stark warning aimed at the photographer. 'If I hit him with the racket, it's his fault. Not my fault. I'm going to say it right now. If I hit him, it's his fault. He's looking at me every time I'm serving.'
The world number three continued his protest, demanding official intervention. 'Can you tell him, please, to not look at me? When I'm serving, he cannot look at me. I have the right.'
A History of On-Court Explosions
This is not the first time Medvedev's fiery temperament has made headlines. The Russian is known for his passionate, and sometimes combustible, demeanour during high-pressure matches. His ability to channel frustration into his game is as renowned as his blistering groundstrokes.
Despite the mid-match drama, Medvedev managed to regain his composure to secure a hard-fought victory in four sets: 6-2, 6-2, 6-7(6), 6-2. The win books his place in the next round as he continues his quest for a second US Open title.
