Andrey Rublev Offers Support to Daniil Medvedev After US Open Meltdown
Andrey Rublev offers emotional support to childhood friend Daniil Medvedev after his US Open meltdown.
“He's been struggling and he's struggling to face the music, right...?”
Andrey Rublev is offering support to his childhood friend Daniil Medvedev after Medvedev's emotional meltdown at the US Open. Medvedev lost to Frenchman Benjamin Bonzi in a chaotic match that showcased his frustration, including a tirade against the chair umpire and interactions with the jeering crowd.
Rublev's offer of help stems from their close relationship, which extends beyond tennis. The two Russians have known each other since they were kids, and Rublev is even the godfather to Medvedev's daughter, Alisa. This bond has led Rublev to express his willingness to help Medvedev deal with his emotions.
Medvedev's outburst has sparked a conversation about athlete mental health, highlighting the pressures and stresses that come with competing at the highest level. Rublev's support underscores the importance of having a network and prioritizing mental well-being in the sporting world.
Daniil Medvedev's match against Benjamin Bonzi at the US Open took a dramatic turn when a photographer walked onto the court as Bonzi was about to serve his second serve on match point. The umpire, Greg Allensworth, called a delay due to outside interference and awarded Bonzi a new first serve, sparking Medvedev's outrage.
Medvedev's frustration boiled over as he argued with the umpire, asking, “Are you a man? Are you a man? Why are you shaking? What's wrong huh?” He then turned to the crowd, gesturing for them to be louder, and shouted, “Guys, he wants to leave. He gets paid by the match, not by the hour.” The crowd responded with deafening cheers and jeers, making it difficult for Bonzi to serve.
Despite the chaos, Medvedev managed to prolong the match, winning the third set in a tiebreaker and taking the fourth set 6-0. However, Bonzi regained his composure and sealed the win in the fifth set. Medvedev's emotional breakdown continued after the match, smashing his racket in frustration.
Daniil Medvedev looking totally distraught after his loss to Bonzi at the U.S. open.
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) August 25, 2025
He’s smashing his racquet and just sitting on the court.
Brutal loss to swallow.
pic.twitter.com/CYvceKNR2M
The incident has sparked controversy, with some players, including Reilly Opelka and Taylor Fritz, criticizing the umpire's decision. Opelka called Allensworth the “worst ref” in the ATP, saying he almost changed the outcome of the match. The US Open has faced criticism for not providing a more controlled environment, especially given the high stakes and intense emotions involved in Grand Slam matches.
Andrey Rublev expressed his willingness to support Daniil Medvedev, saying, “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.” Rublev's offer of support stems from their long-standing friendship, having known each other since kindergarten.
Rublev is well-positioned to understand Medvedev's emotional struggles, having experienced his own share of on-court outbursts in the past. Like Medvedev, Rublev has previously lashed out in frustration, damaging his rackets during matches. This shared experience gives him insight into the challenges of managing emotions under pressure.
Andrey Rublev believes Daniil Medvedev needs time to process his recent struggles, especially after his tough loss at the US Open. “Only he knows what is happening,” Rublev said, emphasizing that Medvedev's approach to dealing with his emotions is a personal decision.
Rublev, who has known Medvedev since their kindergarten days, understands the emotional challenges he faces. Having experienced his own share of on-court outbursts, Rublev is empathetic towards Medvedev's situation. He plans to reach out to Medvedev, acknowledging the difficulties he's faced in the Grand Slams this year. “I think he needs to take some time because it was a tough loss, but I will text him. The year he's had in the Grand Slams hasn't been easy.”
As a friend and fellow tennis player, Rublev's support could be invaluable to Medvedev, who has been open about his emotional struggles in the past. Medvedev's recent behavior on court, including smashing his racket and expressing frustration, has sparked discussions about athlete mental health. Rublev's offer of support highlights the importance of having a strong network for athletes navigating high-pressure situations.
Daniil Medvedev's US Open exit to Benjamin Bonzi wasn't surprising given his struggles this year. Medvedev has won only one match at the majors in 2025, with his sole victory coming at the Australian Open in January. American player Frances Tiafoe believes Medvedev's frustration stems from his high expectations, saying, “He holds himself to a super high standard.” This self-pressure likely contributed to Medvedev's emotional outburst during the match against Bonzi.
Medvedev's recent performance has raised concerns about his form and future in the sport. After losing to Bonzi in the first round, Medvedev smashed his racket in frustration and later expressed regret over his loss, even momentarily considering retirement. This incident highlights the intense pressure faced by top athletes and the importance of prioritizing mental health.
“He's been struggling and he's struggling to face the music, right? He's struggling to face losing early and to guys he feels he should be beating.”
“Another side comes out. I hope to see him play to the level that he's capable of playing. It's been a super tough stretch.”
Andrey Rublev and Daniil Medvedev's friendship began when they were just kindergarteners, competing against each other in local Russian tournaments. Their bond grew stronger over the years, despite being rivals on the court. Rublev recalls their first meeting, saying Medvedev's intense emotions and competitive spirit left a lasting impression. Medvedev, known for his humor, jokes about their long-standing friendship, while Rublev highlights his kindness and generosity. Today, Rublev is even the godfather to Medvedev's daughter, Alisa, symbolizing the depth of their relationship.
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