Daniil Medvedev labelled Australian Open fans as ‘stupid’ after growing frustrated with the Down Under trend of Cristiano Ronaldo ’s trademark celebration.
The world number two grew frustrated as those in attendance continued to imitate the Portuguese forward’s celebration - which Andy Murray thought was booing - during his clash with home favourite Nick Kyrgios.
Medvedev saw off Kyrgios in four sets, winning 7-6 (7-1) 6-4 4-6 6-2 before expressing his disappointment with those inside the Rod Laver Arena.
“I came to win this match and I am happy that I managed to do it,” Medvedev told 1992 and 1992 Australian Open champion Jim Courier in his on-court interview. “That’s the only choice when you are booed between first and second serves.”
The crowd continued to imitate the ‘Siu’ sound during the interview, to which Medvedev - the highest-ranked player at the tournament after Novak Djokovic was sensationally deported - snapped back.
The 25-year-old said: “Guys, I can’t hear him. Please show respect for Jim Courier. He won here. Thank you.
“On the games I lost on the break points - it’s tough to play.
“It’s just a little disappointing when they are making so much noise between first and second serves, I guess some people just have a low IQ.”
The Russian then signed the TV camera as is tradition, and signed it ’siuuu’ as he fired another shot at the Australian crowd. Unlike British tennis icon Murray, Medvedev knew what the noise was as he is a huge fan of football.
Medvedev famously won the US Open last year and celebrated by flopping to the floor as he recreated a FIFA celebration.
While Medvedev performed well to defeat, it was yet another chapter to the enigmatic book that is Kyrgios after the Aussie lost his temper.
Kyrgios showcased his ability with a fine display against Liam Broady in round one - including an underarm tweeter serve - but he struggled against Medvedev, and lost his cool late in the match.
The 26-year-old was warned early in the match about his time-keeping after he pushed the 25-second limit by ambling to get his towel. Kyrgios then became embroiled in an argument with the chair umpire, leading the player to utter: “No one cares what you say.”
After Kyrgios mocked the umpire by sprinting the baseline, he showed off his tremendous skill by landing a sensational volley and forehand winner to send the crowd into raptures.
However, Medvedev held serve to move to 5-2 in the fourth set and Kyrgios lost his temper, smashing his racket against the court as he was docked a point.
Medvedev will face Dutch star Botic van de Zandschlup in the third round.
