Andrey Rublev offers to help Daniil Medvedev after public meltdown during US Open first-round defeat against Benjamin Bonzi
ByTNT UK
Updated 26/08/2025 at 14:57 GMT+1
Andrey Rublev has rushed to the defence of his under-fire compatriot Daniil Medvedev, claiming his close friend should feel free to express his emotions following his public meltdown at the US Open. Medvedev, a former world No. 1, has now suffered three successive first-round defeats at Majors for the first time in his career having lost 6-3 7-5 6-7(5) 0-6 6-4 to Benjamin Bonzi on Sunday.
Daniil Medvedev
Image credit: Getty Images
Daniil Medvedev has drifted outside the top 10 for the first time since early in 2023 - but his most recent early exit in the US Open will be remembered for his third-set antics, with the Russian refusing to go quietly as he launched a scathing attack against the umpire Greg Allensworth.
The 2021 champion was furious at the decision to replay Benjamin Bonzi's first serve on match point after a photographer wandered onto Louis Armstrong Stadium court.
Incensed by a perceived injustice, Medvedev hurled abuse at Allensworth but despite rallying to force a deciding set, he would eventually succumb to defeat.
While words of sympathy came from Australian Nick Kyrgios on social media, Medvedev's behaviour led to six-time Grand Slam champion Boris Becker advising the player to "seek professional help".
"We call this 'public meltdown' ... I think he needs professional help?!?" Becker said on X, sharing a video of Medvedev smashing his racket after the match had concluded.
When Becker's assessment was put to world No. 15 and compatriot Andrey Rublev, however, he remarked: "I don't know - if he wants to change and needs help he has me, a lot of other friends and family that will help him.
"But it's his life and his decision what he needs to do. Only he knows what is happening."
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Rublev is in a good position to offer advice as the 27-year-old, who is the godfather to Medvedev's children, turned to a psychologist to help overcome his own mental health struggles.
"I haven't spoke to him yet," Rublev added after winning his US Open first-round match on Monday.
"I think he needs to take some time because it was a tough loss for him, but I will text him.
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Highlights: Bonzi beats Medvedev in fiery clash as Djokovic prevails
Video credit: SNTV
"The year he's had in the Slams [winning only one match] has not been easy for him."
Elite coach Brad Gilbert agreed with Becker's post, highlighting Medvedev's previous episodes of poor etiquette.
"He did the same thing after his loss in Washington DC, was a complete meltdown there too," Gilbert said.
"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."
Former player-turned analyst Patrick McEnroe said Medvedev, who has had an up and down relationship with the New York crowd over the years, needed some time away from the game to reset.
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Medvedev 'not upset with photographer' in 'fun' umpire controversy
Video credit: SNTV
"Medvedev needs to take the rest of the year off," he added.
After Sunday's match, Medvedev said his anger had nothing to do with the photographer but the chair umpire's decision.
"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 said.
"It was a fun moment to live. I was not upset with the photographer. I was upset with the decision."
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