Becker calls for professional help after Medvedev's US Open meltdown
Tennis legend Boris Becker has suggested that Daniil Medvedev requires professional assistance following what the six-time Grand Slam champion described as a dramatic outburst during the Russian's shocking first-round exit at the US Open on Sunday.
The former world number one's defeat came at the hands of French qualifier Benjamin Bonzi in a five-set thriller, losing 6-3 7-5 6-7(5) 0-6 6-4 at Louis Armstrong Stadium. However, it was Medvedev's emotional breakdown during the third set that captured widespread attention and sparked debate throughout the tennis community.
The pivotal moment occurred when the 2021 US Open champion was facing match point and appeared headed for a straight-sets elimination. A photographer's unauthorized movement onto the court coincided with Bonzi's first serve attempt, prompting the chair umpire to award the Frenchman a replay of his first serve due to the disruption.
This decision triggered an explosive reaction from the 13th-seeded Medvedev, who launched into an extended confrontation with the match official while simultaneously engaging with the crowd in a manner that prevented his opponent from continuing play. The incident dominated coverage of what should have been celebrated as a remarkable comeback victory for the unseeded Bonzi.
Becker took to social media platform X to express his concerns about the Russian's behavior, sharing footage of Medvedev destroying his racket after the match concluded. "We call this 'public meltdown' ... I think he needs professional help?!?" the German former world number one posted.
Renowned coaching expert Brad Gilbert endorsed Becker's assessment while pointing to a pattern of similar incidents involving the Russian player. "He did the same thing after his loss in Washington DC, was a complete meltdown there too," Gilbert observed. "Unfortunately the brain is getting the better of him after losing these close matches the last few months. I agree he definitely needs some help."
Following the match, Medvedev attempted to clarify his position regarding the controversial third-set incident, emphasizing that his frustration stemmed from the officiating decision rather than the photographer's presence. "I think nothing special. Every time there is a sound from the stands between the serves, there is never a second serve. But well, it helped me get back into the match," he explained. "It was a fun moment to live. I was not upset with the photographer. I was upset with the decision."
Television analyst Patrick McEnroe, brother of seven-time Grand Slam winner John McEnroe, suggested that the Russian player's complicated relationship with New York audiences over recent years indicates he may benefit from an extended break from competition. The former professional player recommended that Medvedev consider stepping away from tournament play for the remainder of the season to regain his composure and perspective.
Despite the widespread criticism, Medvedev did find support from an unexpected source. Australian player Nick Kyrgios, known for his own controversial moments on court, defended his colleague on social media. "Medvedev is the best," Kyrgios posted, offering solidarity with the embattled Russian.
SportsLigue