Tennis star Daniil Medvedev vented his frustration by smashing a net-mounted camera with his racket during a challenging first-round match at the Australian Open on Wednesday, January 15.
The world No. 5 eventually secured a hard-fought five-set victory over Thailand’s Kasidit Samrej, winning 6-2, 4-6, 3-6, 6-1, 6-2. However, the match proved far more difficult than expected against the 418th-ranked wildcard.
Tensions peaked at the end of the third set when Samrej served to take a 2-1 lead in the match. During the game, Samrej benefited from a lucky net cord, forcing Medvedev to scramble and ultimately miss a cross-court winner.
As Samrej apologized for the fortunate shot, Medvedev directed his frustration at a small camera mounted at the center of the net, smashing both the camera and his racket.
The chair umpire issued Medvedev a warning for racket abuse, and the Russian star went on to lose the third set. Samrej, making his Grand Slam debut, appeared poised for a potential upset.
Despite the setback, Medvedev regained his composure and rallied to secure the victory in five sets.
During his post-match interview, Medvedev, now in good spirits, chose not to address his outburst. Instead, he praised his opponent’s impressive performance.
“If he plays like this every match, his life can be good – money, girls, casino, whatever,” Medvedev joked. “I wish he could play like this every match.”
Medvedev, a three-time Grand Slam finalist and last year’s Australian Open runner-up, advances to face 19-year-old American Learner Tien in the second round.
