Daniil Medvedev found himself at the center of another mid-match controversy when umpire Adel Nour handed him a “Best Efforts” code violation during the China Open semifinal.
The ATP later reviewed the incident and cleared the Russian of any wrongdoing, confirming he would face no fine or penalty. The update sparked a wave of reactions online, with many expressing their frustration toward Nour.
How Did Fans Respond After the ATP Overturned Daniil Medvedev’s China Open Code Violation?
Medvedev faced the USA’s Learner Tien in the semifinals of the ATP 500 event. The Russian stumbled out of the blocks, falling 0-3 in the first set, but rallied brilliantly to claim it 7-5. The second set saw constant shifts in control. Medvedev raced to a 3-0 lead with an early break, but Tien fought back relentlessly, exchanging breaks before eventually serving out the set 7-5.
The 29-year-old struggled physically after the second set, taking a medical timeout. In the third set, cramps left him barely able to move, but he battled on despite struggling to reach the ball. However, a contentious moment was yet to happen.
The second game of the third set sparked a controversy as Egyptian chair umpire Adel Nour gave Medvedev a “Best Efforts” code violation for remaining still during Tien’s serve. The Russian immediately protested, calling over supervisor Roland Herfel. He even confronted the umpire, questioning why he was being intimidated despite giving his absolute best on court.
The umpire’s code violation sparked controversy as it went against Medvedev; however, the ATP later overturned the decision and issued a statement.
“Upon reviewing the incident, the ATP Officiating has determined that the “Best Efforts” code violation was issued in error. This was communicated to Medvedev + his team following the match, and no fine will be imposed,” their statement read.
Amnesty for Daniil ! pic.twitter.com/pQSKuKwOtc
— Jon Wertheim (@jon_wertheim) September 30, 2025
Several fans later reacted to this update, expressing frustration with the umpire’s decision. One fan wrote:
“and what’s the fine for the umpire who stressed Daniil out needlessly?!”
and what’s the fine for the umpire who stressed Daniil out needlessly?!
— a girl in Brooklyn lovin’ (@agirlinbklyn) September 30, 2025
“As they should, it was infuriating and unfair!!!!!” another said.
“ATP should fine the inhumane umpire!” One chimed in.
A fan criticized the ATP for rarely publishing such updates on its official site, suggesting it’s a way to avoid accountability.
“I find it comical the ATP NEVER releases stuff like this on their own website – another way of hiding from any accountability and burying any potential controversies they are involved in,” they commented.
I find it comical the ATP NEVER releases stuff like this on their own website – another way of hiding from any accountability and burying any potential controversies they are involved in
— naturlselect84 (@naturlselect84) September 30, 2025
“I’m out of the loop on this particular matter but I am 100% certain that he brings so much to the sport that I can’t give his petty indiscretions much headspace unless they directly affect another person or fair gameplay,” one commented.
Another fan joked that Medvedev’s claims of biased refereeing have been proven right, reacting humorously to the ATP overturning his penalty.
“Medvedev’s conspiracy’s against refs have been vindicated lmao,” they said.
Medvedev had been in strong form throughout the tournament, dropping only one set in the semifinals. The 29-year-old holds a 30-20 win-loss record this season, and it remains to be seen whether he will compete in the upcoming Masters 1000 event in Shanghai.
