Volatile fourth seed Daniil Medvedv flew into a rage for the second match running on Thursday, loudly protesting what he perceived as a mistaken line call moments before losing to Karen Khachanov at the Monte Carlo Masters.
Medvedev unhesitatingly unleashed his feelings on chair umpire Carlos Bernades in the 6-3, 7-5 third-round loss to 15th seed Khachanov, twice a Roland Garros quarter-finalist.
The outburst was the second in as many days for Medvedev, who also protested in vain in a similar situation during his Wednesday win over Gael Monfils.
Khachanov remained focused and was able to serve out victory to move into a quarter-final against Stefanos Tsitsipas, who beat Alexander Zverev 7-5, 7-6 (3).
“I know Daniil can get out of his mind sometimes in tough moments,” longtime rival Khachanov said.
“Emotions can take over – he lost it a little bit today. From my side, I had to stay focused – he’s not going to give you those points and will keep on fighting.
“If I had made one or two mistakes he could have been back in business.”
He advanced with 22 winners and 26 unforced errors, while Medvedev boiled over on his least favourite surface, striking 29 unforced errors.
The match began with four breaks of serve before Khachanov quickly recovered his rhythm.
“We were both a little nervous at the start. I’m happy I relaxed a bit and started to play better.
“It’s a short transition from hardcourts, the first week is about getting rhythm. I’ve been winning clay matches but not going deep into tournaments.
“I tried to give him more spin, move him outside the (side) lines. I know he doesn’t like to play on clay and that gave me some extra confidence in my pocket.”
Khachanov will be playing his eighth Masters quarter-finals after earning his first defeat of a Top 5 player this season.
