VIDEO: Reasons Why Daniil Medvedev Will Be facing monster fine for Australian Open meltdown that left opponent ‘shocked’

Daniil Medvedev’s opponent, Kasidit Samrej, admitted to being “shocked” after the Russian tennis star erupted mid-match during their Round 1 clash at the 2025 Australian Open. Medvedev, visibly frustrated by his opponent’s unexpected challenge, smashed his racquet against the net and struck a camera, which had to be replaced. This incident came as Samrej, ranked No. 418 in the world, was gaining momentum, having already taken the second and third sets after Medvedev won the first 6-2.

As Samrej edged closer to winning the third set, he won a point at the net against Medvedev, which triggered the Russian’s outburst. Fans at Rod Laver Arena booed him, and Samrej later confessed that the act had shaken him. “Honestly, I’ve seen him act like this before, but I was still a bit shocked,” Samrej said. “I lost the point right after that, but I tried to refocus.”

Medvedev, known for his mid-match meltdowns, had one of his most extreme outbursts yet, with commentators noting the mental toll it appeared to take on him. “Anyone who’s played the game understands the frustration he’s feeling,” said Mark Petchey on Nine’s coverage.

Despite the tantrum, Medvedev regrouped, saving two set points before Samrej eventually won the set. The camera replacement seemed to motivate the Russian, as he dominated the final two sets, winning 6-1, 6-2. Medvedev acknowledged the fine he would likely face, joking, “I hope it’s not too big,” before adding that the GoPro camera was surprisingly durable compared to his racquet. Medvedev’s next opponent will be Learner Tien.