During the China Open semifinal in Beijing, Daniil Medvedev faced an unexpected physical breakdown while competing against American rising star Learner Tien. After splitting the first two sets, Medvedev began to experience intense cramping that ultimately forced him to retire from the match.
A Controversial Code Violation
As Medvedev struggled to move during the third set, chair umpire Adel Nour issued a code violation for lack of effort. The Russian, visibly frustrated, confronted the umpire and match supervisor Roland Herfel, questioning the decision and defending his commitment to the match.
“I’m giving my best effort, so why the hell is he saying I’m not giving best effort? I’m telling you I’m giving my best efforts, who are you to decide for me? Who are you? What’s your name?”
Medvedev Describes the Physical Toll
Following the match, Medvedev opened up about the extent of his physical struggles. He described a cascading series of cramps that affected multiple muscle groups, beginning during play and continuing into the locker room.
“Cramps started in the hand, went into the leg, the glutes, then in the locker room my abs cramped as well. It was more mental than physical. I’ve rarely experienced this..maybe 3 times in my whole career. It’s quite painful”
Looking Ahead to Shanghai
Despite the setback in Beijing, Medvedev remained focused on his upcoming campaign at the Shanghai Masters. Entering the tournament as the 16th seed, he was scheduled to face Czech qualifier Dalibor Svrcina in the opening round. Medvedev had previously defeated Svrcina at the Canadian Open earlier in the season.
ATP Shanghai - Daniil Medvedev's projected path
Daniil Medvedev in 2025
Currently the world no.18, Daniil played his last match on the 4th of October when he capitulated to Unknown Player bye in the 1st round in Shanghai (draw).
This year the Russian has managed to achieve a 30-20 win-loss record. Daniil Medvedev’s most significant result of this year was getting to the final in Halle.
ATP Shanghai - Learner Tien's projected path
Tien in Shanghai, ranking, and results in 2025
Ranked no.36 (career-high), Learner has managed to achieve a composed 31-23 win-loss record in 2025. Learner is playing at the moment in Shanghai where he managed to beat the world no.47 Miomir Kecmanovic 4-6 6-3 6-4.
Learner Tien will play the world no.38 Corentin Moutet in the 2nd round on Saturday at 5:30 pm on COURT 4. Their record is 1-1.
Tien was the finalist in Beijing (China Open).
Daniil Medvedev and Learner Tien clashed against each other only 2 times. Their current head to head is 2-0 for Tien.