Daniil Medvedev could ditch video-game celebration after winning another Slam

In Melbourne, Australia, during the first round of the Australian Open on January 14, 2025, Daniil Medvedev displayed frustration by using his racket to smash a camera mounted on the net. Facing wildcard Kasidit Samrej from Thailand, ranked 418th, Medvedev found himself trailing in the third set, which led to his outburst. After losing a crucial point, Medvedev's anger boiled over, causing him to swing at the camera and break his racket. Despite this moment of rage, Medvedev managed to rebound, winning the match 6-2, 4-6, 3-6, 6-1, 6-2. His performance was initially shaky, dropping two consecutive sets, but he claimed twelve of the last fifteen games after breaking his racket. This match was significant as it marked Medvedev's return to competitive play after taking time off to welcome his second child. The incident received immediate attention, especially since it occurred during a Grand Slam match. Medvedev's frustration was compounded by the fact that he was facing an opponent making his Grand Slam debut and one who was ranked much lower than him. He received a code violation from the chair umpire for racket abuse and was met with both boos and support from the crowd, reflecting the mixed reactions athletes often face during tense moments. Following the match, Medvedev humorously reflected on his desire to play longer matches, stating that he thrives on the court and joked about needing a minimum of three hours to find his rhythm. This humorous self-reflection contrasted with his earlier explosive action, showcasing the complexity of emotions athletes experience during high-stakes competitions. With this victory, Medvedev advanced in the tournament, which he hoped would lead to redeeming his past failures in previous finals at the Australian Open.