ATP admits to 'error' in Daniil Medvedev best effort warning

Daniil Medvedev argues with the chair umpire and tournament referee. (Getty/Fred Lee)

The ATP has confirmed that former world No.1 Daniil Medvedev wrongly received a "best effort" warning during his eventual retirement at the China Open.

Medvedev, 29, led American Learner Tien 7-5, 5-3 in the semi-finals of the 500-tier event, but cramps suddenly took over the Russian's body and hindered his ability to perform.

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As he remained almost static while trailing 0-1, 15-30 and 15-40 in the third set, chair umpire Adel Nour handed Medvedev a code violation warning for not giving his best effort.

Furious at the lack of compassion and understanding, Medvedev walked up to the umpire and spoke to one of the tournament organisers.

"Why is every referee in the world trying to intimidate me?" the 2021 US Open champion said.

"If I tell him something bad, I get disqualified, but what am I supposed to tell this guy?"

After Nour argued that Medvedev showed no movement, the latter replied: "Say it in the camera that you prefer that guys retire.

"I can talk to you for 10 minutes, and maybe I'm not cramping after 10 minutes. I'm giving my best efforts, so why the hell is he not giving best effort? Who are you to decide for me? Who are you? What's your name?"

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According to the ATP rules: "A player shall use his best efforts during the match when competing in a tournament. Violation of this section shall subject a player to a fine up to $40,000 for each violation (at 500-level)."

However, Medvedev will avoid a fine after an ATP spokesperson clarified the incident.

"Upon reviewing the incident during Daniil Medvedev's semi-final match in Beijing, ATP Officiating has determined that the 'Best Efforts' code violation was issued in error. This was communicated to Medvedev and his team following the match, and no fine will be imposed," the statement read.

Medvedev eventually retired from the match down 0-4 in the third set.

In the first round of the 2025 US Open, a complete meltdown cost him A$65,000 for unsportsmanlike conduct.

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