Daniil Medvedev fined $76,000 for behavior at Australian Open

Russian tennis star penalized for outbursts, racquet destruction, and skipping press conference.

Daniil Medvedev reacts during the Men's Singles Second Round match against Learner Tien of the United States on day five of the 2025 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 16, 2025, in Melbourne, Australia. Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images

By Randy Ahmad and Rachel Sumi

Russian tennis player Daniil Medvedev was handed a hefty fine of $76,000 on Saturday for his temperamental behavior during his Australian Open campaign. The world number five’s actions, which included destroying a net camera, throwing his racquet, and skipping a post-match press conference, prompted the substantial penalty.

Medvedev’s outburst came during his five-set victory over Thailand's Kasidit Samrej in the first round, where he was penalized $10,000 for his actions. In a moment of frustration, the Russian tennis star mangled his racquet and caused significant damage to a net camera. This was only the beginning of his controversial performance at the tournament.

The penalties grew more severe as Medvedev’s behavior escalated in his second-round match against 19-year-old qualifier Learner Tien. After crashing out of the match, Medvedev was fined an additional $66,000.

In this round, the Russian threw his racquet in anger, sending it skidding across the court toward an advertising panel near his bench. His frustration continued to grow as he argued with the umpire after being called out for repeated foot faults, a violation that often infuriates players.

Daniil Medvedev reacts as he throws his racket during the Men's Singles Second Round match against Learner Tien of the United States on day five of the 2025 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 16, 2025, in Melbourne, Australia. Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images

Medvedev’s conduct took another turn when he skipped the mandatory post-match press conference, a breach of tournament rules that further contributed to his financial penalty.

The Russian’s volatile behavior was in stark contrast to his recent success at the Australian Open. Medvedev had reached three of the last four finals, including a notable performance in 2024. However, his latest outing at the tournament saw him implode after leading by two sets, ultimately losing to Jannik Sinner.

Despite his past success, Medvedev's actions at this year’s event have drawn significant attention, raising questions about his temperament under pressure. As a result, his fine reflects not only the nature of his outbursts but also the expectations placed on high-ranking players like him at major tournaments.

Impact on Medvedev’s career

The fines and controversies surrounding Medvedev’s behavior at the Australian Open are likely to affect his reputation and possibly his standing in the tennis world. While his talent on the court is undeniable, his actions off the court are drawing scrutiny from fans and officials alike.

As Medvedev moves forward in his career, his ability to control his emotions during high-stakes matches may become a focal point for analysts and opponents. Whether these fines will have a lasting impact on his future performances remains to be seen, but the Australian Open has certainly highlighted the Russian’s volatile nature on the court.

Daniil Medvedev smashes a TV net camera with his racket after losing the third set against Kasidit Samrej of Thailand in the Men's Singles First Round match on day three of the 2025 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 14, 2025, in Melbourne, Australia. Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images

With his Australian Open campaign behind him, Medvedev will undoubtedly reflect on his behavior and its consequences. The world number five has long been regarded as one of the most talented and promising players in men’s tennis, but his on-court antics may influence his future in the sport.

Fans and tennis experts will be watching closely to see whether Medvedev can learn from his mistakes and regain his focus in upcoming tournaments. His next steps will reveal if he can control his temper and continue to thrive at the highest levels of the game.