Toni Nadal Demands the Authorities to take Strict Action on Daniil Medvedev’s ‘Regrettable’ Actions During US Open Meltdown

Daniil Medvedev made headlines on the opening day of the US Open after a fiery exit against Benjamin Bonzi. The former champion lost in five sets but drew more attention for his behavior than the tennis itself. Facing match point in the third set, he argued with the umpire and provoked the crowd, which caused a seven-minute delay. After the defeat, he smashed his rackets in frustration.

His outburst came at a steep cost. Medvedev was fined nearly £32,000 ($42,500) — with £22,200 ($30,000) for unsportsmanlike conduct and another £9,200 ($12,500) for racket abuse. Still, Toni Nadal, Rafael Nadal’s uncle, argued that the penalties were too light. Writing in El País, he said tennis authorities should take stronger measures against such behavior. Nadal said on El Pais column:

The time has come for tennis authorities to consider penalizing players for breaking a racket on court. We must question why this act is becoming increasingly common in our sport. I have never seen a table tennis player break a paddle or a golfer take it out on their club after making a mistake. Medvedev’s performance was regrettable…I am surprised that a player of Daniil’s caliber is unable to control his nerves.

Toni Nadal also criticized the crowd’s role in the chaotic match. On set point in the first set, Bonzi was distracted when a photographer entered the court. The umpire awarded him a first serve again, sparking Medvedev’s angry confrontation. The jeers from the stands only added to the tension, leaving Bonzi to serve under heavy pressure after several minutes of disruption. He added:

Tennis players are increasingly unable to control their frustration. This is the world we live in, where we don’t concern ourselves with applauding rudeness or outbursts. And for this, there is no sporting punishment.

Though Bonzi managed to steady himself and eventually won 6-3, 7-5, 6-7, 0-6, 6-4, the match was marred by controversy. Medvedev’s repeated racket smashing after the loss only fueled criticism. Toni has since called out both the Russian’s actions and the atmosphere in the stadium, arguing that neither showed the respect the sport deserves.

Daniil Medvedev splits with long-term coach

Former World No.1 Daniil Medvedev has ended his long partnership with coach Gilles Cervara after a disappointing stretch at the Grand Slam events. The split came shortly after his first-round exit at the US Open, where frustration once again overshadowed his tennis. Both men confirmed the decision on Instagram, sharing messages of gratitude for their years of success together.