I am playing bad, admits Daniil Medvedev after first-round exit at US Open

Daniil Medvedev admitted he is playing badly and even worse in crucial situations after he was stunned by Benjamin Bonzi in the opening round of the US Open at the Louis Armstrong Stadium on Sunday night. The Frenchman registered a thrilling 6-3, 7-5, 6-7(5), 0-6, 6-4 win against the former World No.1.

The match was full of drama, and Medvedev’s behaviour on the court was questioned by many experts. In the third set, Bonzi had a match point when a photographer entered the court and Medvedev lashed out at the chair umpire. The drama caused a delay of almost six minutes and Medvedev was able to stay alive in the contest.

But in the end, it was Bonzi who prevailed as Medvedev hit 64 unforced errors.

“I’m playing bad and in important moments, even worse,” Medvedev said of his 2025 Grand Slam season. “Everything: serve, return, volley, whatever… I just need to play better, and I’m going to try to do it next year.”

Earlier in the season, Medvedev suffered a second-round exit at the Australian Open after he was beaten by Learner Tien. Subsequently, Medvedev suffered a first-round exit at the Roland Garros after he was bested by Cameron Norrie. The Russian had also failed to go past Bonzi at Wimbledon, again suffering a first-round exit.

Bonzi was delighted to get over the line after all the drama that unfolded on the court.

“It’s a very important win, it’s my first Grand Slam with Nico, our first week together,” Bonzi said on court after the victory. “I gave all my heart on the court and I have the win today.

“I’m very proud of myself, the scenario of the match, the match point in the third. Then Daniil playing great and taking full advantage in the fourth. It’s kind of crazy, this match. For me it’s like my best victory ever. It’s very special to do it here.”

Bonzi will next take on Marcos Giron in the second round on Wednesday.