Photographer Causes Delay at U.S. Open Match, Medvedev Erupts

NEW YORK – There was chaos at the U.S. Open Sunday night when Daniil Medvedev‘s 6-3, 7-5, 6-7(5), 0-6, 6-4 defeat to Benjamin Bonzi was delayed for six minutes after a photographer entered the court prematurely.

France’s Bonzi was leading against former world No. 1 adn U.S. Open champion Medvedev on Louis Armstrong Stadium, 6-3, 7-5, 5-4, when he missed a frist serve. At that moment, a photographer walked onto the court, seemingly believing the match was over. Because of this interruption, umpire Greg Allensworth allowed Bonzi a second chance at his first serve, instead of forcing a second serve.

The USTA later confirmed to The Athletic that the photographer’s tournament credentials were revoked and thay were escorted from the court by security.

Medvedev, known for his emotional play and ability to engage the crowd, strongly protested the umpire’s decision and urged the audience to voice their disapproval.

He claimed Allensworth “wanted to leave” because he gets “paid by the match, not by the hour,” and shouted toward the camera: “Reilly Opelka was right!” and “What did Reilly Opelka say?”

This was a reference to comments made by American player Reilly Opelka in February, stating that Allensworth “shouldn’t have a job or should be sidelined for about four weeks, maybe learn a thing or two,” after penalizing Opelka for swearing at a spectator at the Dallas Open.

INSANE scenes in the Medvedev & Bonzi match at US Open

A cameraman was trying to leave after Bonzi missed his 1st serve.

The umpire gave Bonzi a 1st serve.

daniil: “are you a man? Are you a man? why are you shaking? What’s wrong huh? Guys he wants to leave. He gets paid by… pic.twitter.com/nzlqgoWxre

– The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) September 3, 2023