Tennis-Medvedev destroys net camera in huge scare against Thai wildcard

Tennis - Australian Open - Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia - January 14, 2025 Russia's Daniil Medvedev applauds his opponent during his first round match against Thailand's Kasidit Samrej REUTERS/Francis Mascarenhas

MELBOURNE (Reuters) - Daniil Medvedev destroyed his racket and a net camera in a mid-match meltdown as he survived a huge scare against Thai wildcard Kasidit Samrej to reach the Australian Open second round on Tuesday.

The frustrated Russian whacked his racket five times into the net after dropping serve in the third set before rallying to claim the match 6-2 4-6 3-6 6-1 6-2 in the afternoon sun at Rod Laver Arena.