Russian tennis player Daniil Medvedev could be fined for an incident that occurred during the first round of the Australian Open, as reported by Tennis Channel.
The athlete, who reached the tournament's final last year, won a five-set match against Thailand's Kasidit Samrej, who is ranked 418th in the world, with scores of 6:2, 4:6, 3:6, 6:1, 6:2. In the third set, during the final game, Medvedev hit the net multiple times with his racket, damaging not only the racket but also the net and the camera attached to it. As a result, the match was temporarily halted for equipment repairs, and Medvedev received a warning for unsportsmanlike behavior.
The athlete could face a fine of up to $50,000, if the racket damage is included. If the incident is categorized as unsportsmanlike conduct, the fine could increase to $100,000. Medvedev will also be required to cover the cost of the damaged camera.
After the match, the tennis player expressed hope that the fine would be minor. Today, January 16, he will play in the second round of the tournament against 19-year-old American Learner Tien.
Djokovic Breaks Record for Grand Slam Matches Played Sinner: If the Drug Testing Protocol Has Issues, It's Not My Fault Tsitsipas Unexpectedly Eliminated in First Round of Australian Open