Daniil Medvedev’s Australian Open campaign ended in the second round, but his behavior on the court has stolen headlines. The three-time Melbourne runner-up was fined a staggering $76,000 for multiple offenses during his two matches at the tournament, adding to the Russian’s reputation for controversy and theatrics.
Net camera destruction and a meltdown in round one
In his opening-round match against Kasidit Samrej, Medvedev required five sets to secure a hard-fought victory. Frustrations boiled over when Samrej went two sets to one ahead, prompting Medvedev to smash his racket repeatedly against the net camera. The camera proved sturdier than his racket, which broke during the tirade.
Speaking about the incident, Medvedev quipped, “I was surprised how strong the net camera was. It outlasted my racket!”
The net camera destruction earned him a $10,000 fine and set the stage for further fireworks.
Racket throwing and rule-breaking in round two
In the second round, Medvedev faced 17-year-old Learner Tien in another grueling five-setter, ultimately falling 3-6, 6-7, 7-6, 6-1, 6-7. Tien’s composure outlasted Medvedev’s volatility, with the Russian hurling his racket across the court in frustration.
Medvedev also argued with the chair umpire during the match and compounded his issues by skipping the mandatory post-match press conference, a breach of tournament rules.
The collective fines for his second-round antics totaled $66,000, bringing his overall penalty to $76,000.
A costly tournament for Medvedev
The fines wiped out a significant portion of Medvedev’s Australian Open earnings. While he pocketed $124,000 in prize money, his misbehavior left him with less than half that amount.
A pattern of controversy
This isn’t the first time Medvedev has courted controversy. Known for his unique personality, he has delivered moments of both entertainment and bewilderment. At the 2023 ATP Finals, Medvedev sarcastically dropped his racket repeatedly to mock the umpire, following a code violation. He even attempted to return a serve with the wrong side of his racket in the same match.
Kyrgios blames the schedule, but is it really the issue?
Nick Kyrgios recently suggested the packed tennis calendar is responsible for players’ frustrations, including Medvedev’s, calling the schedule “absurd.” However, Medvedev’s history of outbursts suggests these incidents are less about the calendar and more about his fiery temperament.
A rocky start to 2025
Medvedev hasn’t lifted a title since the 2023 Italian Open, a drought uncharacteristic of the former World No. 1. His Australian Open exit and erratic behavior have raised questions about whether this marks a temporary slump or a deeper issue as he navigates the new season.
For now, Medvedev remains one of the sport’s most polarizing figures—unpredictable, entertaining, and always in the spotlight.