TENNIS ace Daniil Medvedev retired from his China Open semi-final against Learner Tien after accusing the umpire of trying to “intimidate” him.
The 29-year-old was forced to withdraw from the match in the third set with the score 5-7 7-5 4-0 in his opponent’s favour.
Medvedev had been cramping for most of the match and struggled to return any ball that did not fall within his reach.
He was given a warning for a “lack of effort” after being aced with a routine serve down the centre of the court.
The Russian then argued with the umpire before saying: “You don’t talk now.”
A supervisor had attempted to get involved before Medvedev continued his rant.
He said: “You prefer that I retire? Say to the guys and the cameras that you prefer I retire. I’m giving my best effort so why the hell are you saying I’m not giving my best effort.
“Who are you to decide for me? Who are you? What’s your name?”
Medvedev continued: “Why is every referee in the world trying to intimidate me? I didn’t say one word.
“After US Open I’m trying to be good and this guy is doing that? I’m supposed to act good?
“Why are you trying to intimidate me? What’s your problem with me?”
Medvedev – who was referring to his US Open meltdown over a photographer – was able to play two more games after the outburst before calling it quits.
It meant that 19-year-old Tien reached his first ATP Tour final.
He will face world No1 Jannik Sinner on Wednesday.
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