A bizarre incident disrupted the second-round action at the US Open inside the Louis Armstrong Stadium in New York when a pair of birds perched on top of the net during an ongoing rally. As the match progressed, chair umpire Timo Janzen halted play right after Daniil Medvedev struck a winning forehand shot, ordering the point to be replayed. The decision sparked immediate frustration from Medvedev, who loudly protested on court and described the call as one of the most absurd moments of his professional career.
How the Bird Intrusion Unfolded on Court
The unusual episode occurred during the second set while Medvedev was holding a 4-1 lead during opponent Sebastian Gorzny's service game. During an intense exchange of shots, two small birds landed directly on the upper cord of the net. Despite the unexpected guests, both players continued the rally for several strokes. However, just as Medvedev unleashed a decisive forehand winner to secure the point, one of the birds suddenly took flight. Chair umpire Timo Janzen immediately called a let and instructed both players to stop, disallowing Medvedev's winning shot.
Daniil Medvedev Expresses Sharp Discontent
Medvedev was visibly astonished by the umpire's timing and decision to order a replay of a point he believed he had already won. Addressing the call, Medvedev expressed his complete disbelief, stating that he had never witnessed a more ridiculous ruling in his entire life. He noted that when the birds originally settled on the net, he expected the umpire to pause play right away. Since play was allowed to proceed, Medvedev continued focusing on the point, only for the umpire to intervene loudly right when his winning shot landed.
A Rare Halt in Grand Slam Play
Disruptions caused by wildlife sitting directly on court equipment remain extremely rare in major Grand Slam tournaments. Although Medvedev maintained firm control over the match rhythm with his second-set lead, the sudden interruption generated brief tension and widespread surprise among spectators at Louis Armstrong Stadium. The moment quickly became a major talking point of the tournament day, highlighting the unpredictable factors that can occasionally intervene in elite tennis competition.
