Daniil Medvedev’s first-round exit from the US Open has sparked widespread discussion, not just about his loss, but also about his behavior during the match. The former world number one has been making headlines for all the wrong reasons, and now, tennis legend John McEnroe has weighed in on the situation.

John McEnroe Shares What He Would Have Done Against Medvedev

During an appearance on the Nothing Major podcast, McEnroe discussed the incident involving Medvedev and a photographer that disrupted Medvedev’s match against Benjamin Bonzi. The controversy occurred on match point for Bonzi, with the umpire eventually awarding a first serve back to the Frenchman after the disruption.

When asked about how he would have handled the situation, McEnroe said, ““If I was Bonzi about three minutes into the six or seven minute break I would have put up the ball and said I don’t even need a first serve. Here is the ball, second serve. I am going to win anyway. Medvedev probably would have missed the return, we wouldn’t be talking about this.”“

John McEnroe Doubts Medvedev’s Ability to Rebound

McEnroe also shared his thoughts on Medvedev’s recent form, admitting that he is not sure if the Russian will ever return to his best. ““He already has tapped out months ago. I have been worried about his level because he doesn’t know what the hell he is doing at this point to me. For a guy that is that good on hard courts… This cemented it, how little confidence that he has in anything. But I was sort of hoping, I have got to admit and not at Bonzi’s expense as he showed a lot of balls to me at the end, but I was sort of hoping that Medvedev would win that. He has got to get his act together but I am not sure he can. I think he is so lost right now I am not sure what is going to happen with him in the future. I have always liked Daniil and there is something about the US Open which brings out the best and worst of him.”“

Medvedev Fined for Unsportsmanlike Conduct and Racket Abuse

Medvedev was fined $42,500 for his actions at the US Open, which is a greater fine than John McEnroe ever received. McEnroe’s biggest fine came after his actions at the 1987 US Open, where he was fined $17,500 and suspended for two months.

Medvedev is set to begin the Asian swing at the ATP 250 event in Hangzhou, where he will look to put this incident behind him.

Did John McEnroe Ever Face Similar Controversies?

Yes, John McEnroe was known for his on-court outbursts and controversies during his playing days. His $17,500 fine at the 1987 US Open was one of the highest fines of his career.

What is Medvedev’s Next Tournament After US Open?

Medvedev is set to play at the ATP 250 event in Hangzhou, China, following the US Open.