Former champion Daniil Medvedev crashed out of the US Open in the first round, losing to France’s Benjamin Bonzi 6-3, 7-5, 6-7(5), 0-6, 6-4. The defeat marked Medvedev’s second consecutive opening-round loss to Bonzi at a Grand Slam and left the Russian with only one match victory across the four majors this season. Tension peaked late in the third set when a photographer stepped onto the court, prompting chair umpire Greg Allensworth to allow Bonzi another first serve. Medvedev protested the decision, taunted the New York crowd and delayed play for roughly six minutes before eventually smashing his racket after the five-set defeat. Tournament officials later imposed $42,500 in fines on Medvedev—US$30,000 for unsportsmanlike conduct and US$12,500 for racket abuse—reducing his US$110,000 appearance cheque by almost 40%. The incident drew widespread criticism. Six-time major winner Boris Becker said the world No. 13 "needs professional help," while analyst Patrick McEnroe suggested the 29-year-old should consider ending his season early. Bonzi, who advances to face Marcos Giron, said Medvedev’s behaviour "crossed a line" and intensified the atmosphere on Louis Armstrong Stadium.