(VIDEO) Controversial scenes as Mattia Bellucci aims for Daniil Medvedev's body twice during shock ABN AMRO Open win
ATP
There was controversy at the ABN AMRO Open in Rotterdam on Wednesday as Daniil Medvedev was targeted twice and hit by Mattia Bellucci during their rallies in his shock defeat to the Italian in the second round.
The Italian aggressively hit the ball straight at his Russian opponent. It was also a shock given that Medvedev is known for his prowess on hard courts, is currently World No.7. While Bellucci is ranked significantly lower at World No.92. He had to go through qualifiers to get to the main draw.
Medvedev in his first round had to recover from a set down to defeat Stan Wawrinka, while Bellucci registered an easy win over Mees Rottgering.
Bellucci started the match taking the first set 6-3. In the second with the tie poised at 4-5, Medvedev looked to break the Italian and take the set. At 30-30 though, both players came to the net during the rally. To finish it, Bellucci hit the ball straight at Medvedev hitting him in the stomach.
The Italian raised his hand in apology but Medvedev gave him a glare. While the Russian was able to return. both shots, Bellucci won the point and also the match sealing it in a third set tie-break 6-3, 6-7(6), 6-3 in the end.
Mattia Bellucci aims for Daniil Medvedev’s body twice when at the net in the same game.
— edgeAI (@edgeAIapp) February 5, 2025
Hits him right at his stomach in the first one, quick Look from Medvedev 👀
Belluci saved 1 set point during the game.pic.twitter.com/eLAKeBEzxd
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