Published By: Sayan Guha

When in Doubt, Smash It Out: Racket-Breaking Meltdowns at the US Open

Let’s be real—ever had one of those days where nothing works, and all you want to do is smash something? Turns out, pro tennis players feel the same way

Well, everyone has experienced it. Perhaps you've had a day when everything goes wrong and want to vent. Imagine doing it on a tennis court in front of the entire world. At the US Open, players unleash their fury, rackets fly, and history is made—sometimes not in the intended order.

Let's take a humorous look at some of the most iconic racket-smashing episodes in US Open history, from Serena's intense match to Kyrgios' spectacular racket tantrums. They're more relatable than you would imagine, I promise!

When you can't smash the ball, smash the racket!

You don't see Wimbledon doubles champion Harri Heliovaara slamming a racket like it's the only thing left daily. Things weren't quite going his way in a mixed-doubles match on Court 5 at the US Open 2024. He missed two effortless strokes, then did what many of us would give anything to do when we lose our cool: he destroyed his racket. And to be really honest? It was the most accurate hit he had that day.

Really, haven't we all faced similar moments? Even when you're making every effort, something falls short. Thus, instead of having an outburst (or perhaps even more than one), why not just go for a racket smash and learn from Heliovaara's example? Although it won't improve the grip on your forehand, indeed, it could feel nice.

Serena Williams: Fighting for more than just points

If you've watched tennis, you know that Serena Williams is more than simply a legend in the sport; she is a true warrior. However, everything went wrong against Naomi Osaka in the US Open final in 2018. Serena was under intense pressure to win her 24th Grand Slam championship. After being fined for a code infringement, she got into a furious disagreement with the umpire. One thing led to another, and suddenly, the racket was gone.


But Serena's racket smash was more than simply an act of anger. It was about defending something more significant. She believed how she was being treated was unjust, particularly in light of the fact that male players are frequently forgiven for similar outbursts.

Nick Kyrgios: A smash and a half

If you've ever watched Nick Kyrgios play, you know he's one of the most unpredictable players, which is why we like him and occasionally worry about his rackets. In 2022, Kyrgios lost his composure in a taxing five-set quarterfinal match against Karen Khachanov. Not only did he destroy one racket after the game, which went badly for him, but he smashed two. He attacked them as though they were his personal enemies.


And the truth is, Nick's feelings are never predictable while he's playing. You never quite know what to expect from him, whether he's screaming at his player box or throwing rackets into the air. He is similar to that buddy who is usually a tad too honest, and occasionally, that candour lands him in hot water.

Iga Swiatek: When forehands fail

Even the world's top players have a breaking point—ask Iga Swiatek. The Polish star's game wasn't going well during her 2024 quarterfinal match against Jessica Pegula. As the unintentional mistakes mounted, she committed another forehand blunder.

As many furious tennis players do, her racket slammed into the net. At that moment, her disbelief was virtually palpable through the TV. Usually a manifestation of her accuracy, her reliable racket became the object of her resentment.

We have experienced "racket smash" times, am I right? You feel like lashing out when everything doesn't seem to go your way despite your best efforts. You could be breaking the sentiment rather than the racket, though. Completely relatable.