Alexander Zverev won the men's tennis gold medal for Germany, beating Karen Khachanov 6-3, 6-1 at the Ariake Tennis Center in Tokyo.

The 24-year-old, who hasn't won a Grand Slam title&nbsp;was in sublime form in the one hour and 19 minutes challenge to turn into the first German man to win a single Olympic gold.&nbsp;

It was a slim challenge for the world number five, who procured his spot here by stunning the World no.1 Novak Djokovic in Friday's semi-final.&nbsp;

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Karen Khachanov didn't look good since the beginning. He was broken in his subsequent service game of the match, on the other hand in the second set's second game, and could offer not many solutions to Alexander Zverev's fearsome armory of winners.&nbsp;

Karen Khachanov was slammed by aces, amazing forehand, crushes, and backhands.&nbsp;His opposition developed into the match, hollering in pleasure after one shocking backhand winner down the line.

The greatest unsettling influence to his quiet beat was a German banner, fluttering distractingly in his eye line in an early service game.&nbsp;

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World number five Alexander Zverev won the greatest title of his profession when he squashed Russian Karen Khachanov 6-3 6-1 on Sunday to win the men's singles gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics.&nbsp;

This will probably go down as the best of Alexander Zverev's profession up until now, overshadowing his ATP finals win of 2018. Karen Khachanov's silver is added to the imitation Russian count, with bronze going to Spain's Pablo Carreño Busta, who beat Novak Djokovic by winning the third-place game on Saturday.

Alexander Zverev won the men's tennis gold medal for Germany, beating Karen Khachanov 6-3, 6-1 at the Ariake Tennis Center in Tokyo. The 24-year-old, who hasn't won a Grand Slam title was in sublime form in the one hour and 19 minutes challenge to turn into the first German man to win a single Olympic gold.

Alexander Zverev won the men's tennis gold medal for Germany, beating Karen Khachanov 6-3, 6-1 at the Ariake Tennis Center in Tokyo. The 24-year-old, who hasn't won a Grand Slam title was in sublime form in the one hour and 19 minutes challenge to turn into the first German man to win a single Olympic gold. It was a slim challenge for the world number five, who procured his spot here by stunning the World no.1 Novak Djokovic in Friday's semi-final. ALSO READ: Watch: Tokyo 2020 Olympics — Novak Djokovic smashes racket during bronze medal match Karen Khachanov didn't look good since the beginning. He was broken in his subsequent service game of the match, on the other hand in the second set's second game, and could offer not many solutions to Alexander Zverev's fearsome armory of winners. Karen Khachanov was slammed by aces, amazing forehand, crushes, and backhands. His opposition developed into the match, hollering in pleasure after one shocking backhand winner down the line. The greatest unsettling influence to his quiet beat was a German banner, fluttering distractingly in his eye line in an early service game. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Australia deserved mixed doubles bronze, says Ashleigh Barty World number five Alexander Zverev won the greatest title of his profession when he squashed Russian Karen Khachanov 6-3 6-1 on Sunday to win the men's singles gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics. This will probably go down as the best of Alexander Zverev's profession up until now, overshadowing his ATP finals win of 2018. Karen Khachanov's silver is added to the imitation Russian count, with bronze going to Spain's Pablo Carreño Busta, who beat Novak Djokovic by winning the third-place game on Saturday.

Tokyo 2020: Alexander Zverev beats Karen Khachanov to win gold in tennis men's singles

Novak&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;hopes of becoming the first man to complete the Golden Slam were dashed on Friday after he was unexpectedly beaten by Germany's Alexander Zverev in the singles semi-finals at the Tokyo Games on Friday.

The Serbian's 1-6 6-3 6-1 defeat also ended his dream of winning an Olympic singles gold medal, the only major honour missing from his long list of accolades.

The world number one had arrived in Tokyo gunning for the Golden Slam -- winning all four majors and Olympic gold in the same year -- after triumphing at the Australian Open, Roland Garros and Wimbledon in 2021.

Djokovic, who won singles bronze at the 2008 Beijing Games, appeared to be on course for an easy victory on Friday when he claimed the opening set for the loss of just one game and then went up a break midway through the second.

But world number five Zverev managed to find another gear, breaking back and reeling off eight games in a row to take the set and take a commanding lead in the decider.

Zverev sealed the victory with a winner to become the first German man to make an Olympic tennis final since Tommy Haas won silver at the Sydney Games in 2000.

He will play Karen Khachanov of the Russian Olympic Committee in the championship match.

Novak Djokovic hopes of becoming the first man to complete the Golden Slam were dashed on Friday after he was unexpectedly beaten by Germany's Alexander Zverev in the singles semi-finals at the Tokyo Games on Friday.

Novak Djokovic hopes of becoming the first man to complete the Golden Slam were dashed on Friday after he was unexpectedly beaten by Germany's Alexander Zverev in the singles semi-finals at the Tokyo Games on Friday. The Serbian's 1-6 6-3 6-1 defeat also ended his dream of winning an Olympic singles gold medal, the only major honour missing from his long list of accolades. The world number one had arrived in Tokyo gunning for the Golden Slam -- winning all four majors and Olympic gold in the same year -- after triumphing at the Australian Open, Roland Garros and Wimbledon in 2021. Djokovic, who won singles bronze at the 2008 Beijing Games, appeared to be on course for an easy victory on Friday when he claimed the opening set for the loss of just one game and then went up a break midway through the second. But world number five Zverev managed to find another gear, breaking back and reeling off eight games in a row to take the set and take a commanding lead in the decider. Zverev sealed the victory with a winner to become the first German man to make an Olympic tennis final since Tommy Haas won silver at the Sydney Games in 2000. He will play Karen Khachanov of the Russian Olympic Committee in the championship match.

Tokyo Olympics, Tennis: Djokovic's Golden Slam dreams dashed by Zverev

World number five Alexander Zverev will make his debut in the deferred 2020 Games – with the tennis event set to start on July 24. Zverev will be seeded fourth in the men's singles draw behind Novak Djokovic, Daniil Medvedev, and Stefanos Tsitsipas.&nbsp;

Addressing a German magazine,&nbsp;Zverev said he has loved playing under the German flag and that he would gun for glory in Tokyo. He trusts he is one of the top picks to win the gold medal in the men's singles event.&nbsp;

"I have already said several times that I am going to Tokyo in order to get a medal for Germany. It does not mean at all that I am going to win, but it is true that I see myself as the one of the favorites for the gold medal," said Zverev.&nbsp;

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He said the support he will receive from fans back in Germany will make playing at the Olympics a special memory.&nbsp;

"I love Germany. I always very, very much like to play for my country. It’s even more emotional when you know that everyone is cheering at home," he added.&nbsp;

The 24-year-old sees himself 'as someone who always has a chance against the World No.1 ahead of the Tokyo Olympics.&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic is a top choice to win the Olympic gold medal, having won the Australian Open, French Open, and Wimbledon titles this year. But, according to Zverev, playing aggressive tennis will be the way to beat the favourite at the Olympics.&nbsp;

"To defeat a player like Djokovic you have to do things that very few players can do. You have to outrun Nole and dominate him. I see myself as someone who may have a chance to beat him. If you play like him, you will lose. You have to play at a high level and hope that he is not successful that day," he said.

World number five Alexander Zverev will make his debut in the deferred 2020 Games – with the tennis event set to start on July 24. Zverev will be seeded fourth in the men's singles draw behind Novak Djokovic, Daniil Medvedev, and Stefanos Tsitsipas.

World number five Alexander Zverev will make his debut in the deferred 2020 Games – with the tennis event set to start on July 24. Zverev will be seeded fourth in the men's singles draw behind Novak Djokovic, Daniil Medvedev, and Stefanos Tsitsipas. Addressing a German magazine, Zverev said he has loved playing under the German flag and that he would gun for glory in Tokyo. He trusts he is one of the top picks to win the gold medal in the men's singles event. "I have already said several times that I am going to Tokyo in order to get a medal for Germany. It does not mean at all that I am going to win, but it is true that I see myself as the one of the favorites for the gold medal," said Zverev. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics 2020: Two Olympic athletes test positive for COVID-19, say organisers He said the support he will receive from fans back in Germany will make playing at the Olympics a special memory. "I love Germany. I always very, very much like to play for my country. It’s even more emotional when you know that everyone is cheering at home," he added. The 24-year-old sees himself 'as someone who always has a chance against the World No.1 ahead of the Tokyo Olympics. Novak Djokovic is a top choice to win the Olympic gold medal, having won the Australian Open, French Open, and Wimbledon titles this year. But, according to Zverev, playing aggressive tennis will be the way to beat the favourite at the Olympics. "To defeat a player like Djokovic you have to do things that very few players can do. You have to outrun Nole and dominate him. I see myself as someone who may have a chance to beat him. If you play like him, you will lose. You have to play at a high level and hope that he is not successful that day," he said.

Tokyo Olympics: 'I see myself as one of the favourites for gold medal', says tennis star Alexander Zverev

The business of trying to win your first Grand Slam title can be a tough one as Alexander Zverev is all too aware. 
 
Despite being only 24, the German, seeded fourth at Wimbledon, is playing in his 24th Grand Slam tournament and so far it has been a slow grind. 
 
It looked like he was going to claim the long-predicted first major when he led Dominic Thiem by two sets in last year`s U.S. Open final, only to go down in five. 
 
Yet while being an elite tennis professional is a serious business, there can still be some fun days at the office, as was the case against the aptly-named Tennys Sandgren on Thursday. 
 
At times, Zverev`s 7-5 6-2 6-3 win over the American looked like an exhibition match with both players laughing and joking and interacting with the fans on Court Two. 
 
It was a welcome relief from the intensity that usually comes with a Grand Slam clash and there were hints of comedy as Sandgren was docked a point after a ball fell out of his pocket while he was running towards the net. 
 
"I`ve got a spare pair of shorts if you want," Zverev said to Sandgren, who kept up a running commentary during the match. 
 
There will be more serious days ahead for Zverev, but on Thursday, at least, he could enjoy himself. 
 
"I think it`s not common to have days like that, matches like that," Zverev, who has yet to drop a set in two commanding wins, told reporters. "But Tennys has a very good sense of humour. I think the British crowd have a great sense of humour. 
 
"You can`t really do that if the crowd doesn`t have a great sense of humour. I do enjoy those kind of moments. 
 
"Grand Slams are so serious, our sport is very, very serious because if you lose focus for a second the match can turn around very quickly. But I believe that (some humour) is also very good for our sport." 
 
The clean-hitting German was always in command of an entertaining tussle once he broke Sandgren`s serve at 5-5 in the first set. From then on it was one-way traffic as Zverev reached the third round for the fourth time. 
 
Sandgren entertained the crowd with some good-natured banter and could only chuckle when he made a complete mess of a Zverev miss-hit to go down a double break in the second set. 
 
The German faced only one break point in the match and has yet to drop a set. He will face another American in the next round -- either 31st seed Taylor Fritz or Steve Johnson. 
 
"For a second round, I played very decent tennis. But I also do know that there will be guys, there will be opponents, who will not let me play this well and who will try to break my rhythm, who will try to break my game up," Zverev said. 
 
"Those are the kind of moments where I will need to step up and play even better."

The business of trying to win your first Grand Slam title can be a tough one as Alexander Zverev is all too aware. Despite being only 24, the German, seeded fourth at Wimbledon, is playing in his 24th Grand Slam tournament and so far it has been a slow grind.

The business of trying to win your first Grand Slam title can be a tough one as Alexander Zverev is all too aware. Despite being only 24, the German, seeded fourth at Wimbledon, is playing in his 24th Grand Slam tournament and so far it has been a slow grind. It looked like he was going to claim the long-predicted first major when he led Dominic Thiem by two sets in last year`s U.S. Open final, only to go down in five. Yet while being an elite tennis professional is a serious business, there can still be some fun days at the office, as was the case against the aptly-named Tennys Sandgren on Thursday. At times, Zverev`s 7-5 6-2 6-3 win over the American looked like an exhibition match with both players laughing and joking and interacting with the fans on Court Two. It was a welcome relief from the intensity that usually comes with a Grand Slam clash and there were hints of comedy as Sandgren was docked a point after a ball fell out of his pocket while he was running towards the net. "I`ve got a spare pair of shorts if you want," Zverev said to Sandgren, who kept up a running commentary during the match. There will be more serious days ahead for Zverev, but on Thursday, at least, he could enjoy himself. "I think it`s not common to have days like that, matches like that," Zverev, who has yet to drop a set in two commanding wins, told reporters. "But Tennys has a very good sense of humour. I think the British crowd have a great sense of humour. "You can`t really do that if the crowd doesn`t have a great sense of humour. I do enjoy those kind of moments. "Grand Slams are so serious, our sport is very, very serious because if you lose focus for a second the match can turn around very quickly. But I believe that (some humour) is also very good for our sport." The clean-hitting German was always in command of an entertaining tussle once he broke Sandgren`s serve at 5-5 in the first set. From then on it was one-way traffic as Zverev reached the third round for the fourth time. Sandgren entertained the crowd with some good-natured banter and could only chuckle when he made a complete mess of a Zverev miss-hit to go down a double break in the second set. The German faced only one break point in the match and has yet to drop a set. He will face another American in the next round -- either 31st seed Taylor Fritz or Steve Johnson. "For a second round, I played very decent tennis. But I also do know that there will be guys, there will be opponents, who will not let me play this well and who will try to break my rhythm, who will try to break my game up," Zverev said. "Those are the kind of moments where I will need to step up and play even better."

Wimbledon: Fun day at the office for Zverev as he reaches third round

Alexander Zverev avenged his defeat by Dominic Thiem in last year's U.S. Open final in clinical fashion on Saturday, beating the Austrian 6-3 6-4 to reach the final of the Madrid Open.

Zverev, who beat top seed and tournament favourite Rafa Nadal in straight sets in the quarter-finals on Friday, will meet Matteo Berrettini in Sunday's final after the Italian beat Norway's Casper Ruud 6-4 6-4 in the second semi-final.

Germany's Zverev, who was champion in Madrid in 2018, made a strong start, breaking Thiem early in each set in what turned out to be a routine victory, despite a swirling wind at Caja Magica.

"I'm quite happy to win this one," fifth seed Zverev said in a courtside interview. "We've had some fantastic matches. I think we played the biggest matches in the world.

"We've played Masters finals, Grand Slam finals, we're still developing, we're going to go on for a few more years and hopefully we'll play a few more amazing matches.

"I'm definitely looking forward to playing in another big (Grand Slam) final and I hope I can turn it my way this time."

Thiem held an 8-2 head-to-head advantage over Zverev coming into the semi-final, winning their last four meetings, including his come-from-behind victory at last year's U.S. Open where he claimed his first major title.

The third seed's only defeat to Zverev on clay was in the final in Madrid two years ago, but he never really settled into his stride on Saturday, struggling with his first serve and making 20 unforced errors, including three double faults.

Zverev, on the other hand, sent down six aces and 25 winners as he cruised to victory.

"It was a little bit of a weirder match than against Rafa," the German added. "I feel like the conditions were difficult. It was clearly windy today. Sometimes (that's) not easy but I'm definitely happy with the win."

Eighth seed Berrettini, who has dropped only one set in the tournament, will be aiming to win his maiden ATP Masters 1000 title against Zverev on Sunday.

"I saw him (Zverev), he's playing really good," said Berrettini, who sent down five aces against Ruud.

"He beat Rafa (Nadal) and Dominic (Thiem), probably the best players on clay. It's going to be a challenging match."

Alexander Zverev avenged his defeat by Dominic Thiem in last year's U.S. Open final in clinical fashion on Saturday, beating the Austrian 6-3 6-4 to reach the final of the Madrid Open.

Alexander Zverev avenged his defeat by Dominic Thiem in last year's U.S. Open final in clinical fashion on Saturday, beating the Austrian 6-3 6-4 to reach the final of the Madrid Open. Zverev, who beat top seed and tournament favourite Rafa Nadal in straight sets in the quarter-finals on Friday, will meet Matteo Berrettini in Sunday's final after the Italian beat Norway's Casper Ruud 6-4 6-4 in the second semi-final. Germany's Zverev, who was champion in Madrid in 2018, made a strong start, breaking Thiem early in each set in what turned out to be a routine victory, despite a swirling wind at Caja Magica. "I'm quite happy to win this one," fifth seed Zverev said in a courtside interview. "We've had some fantastic matches. I think we played the biggest matches in the world. "We've played Masters finals, Grand Slam finals, we're still developing, we're going to go on for a few more years and hopefully we'll play a few more amazing matches. "I'm definitely looking forward to playing in another big (Grand Slam) final and I hope I can turn it my way this time." Thiem held an 8-2 head-to-head advantage over Zverev coming into the semi-final, winning their last four meetings, including his come-from-behind victory at last year's U.S. Open where he claimed his first major title. The third seed's only defeat to Zverev on clay was in the final in Madrid two years ago, but he never really settled into his stride on Saturday, struggling with his first serve and making 20 unforced errors, including three double faults. Zverev, on the other hand, sent down six aces and 25 winners as he cruised to victory. "It was a little bit of a weirder match than against Rafa," the German added. "I feel like the conditions were difficult. It was clearly windy today. Sometimes (that's) not easy but I'm definitely happy with the win." Eighth seed Berrettini, who has dropped only one set in the tournament, will be aiming to win his maiden ATP Masters 1000 title against Zverev on Sunday. "I saw him (Zverev), he's playing really good," said Berrettini, who sent down five aces against Ruud. "He beat Rafa (Nadal) and Dominic (Thiem), probably the best players on clay. It's going to be a challenging match."

Alex Zverev puts on Madrid masterclass to book Berrettini clash in final

Rafa Nadal was knocked out of the Madrid Open quarter-finals stage 6-4 6-4 by German Alex Zverev on Friday.

Nadal, a five-time winner in the Spanish capital, was the favourite and top seed having lifted the Barcelona Open trophy last month but played below par on a sweltering spring day.

Zverev struggled in the opening exchanges, finding himself 4-2 down before breaking Nadal twice to turn the match on its head and take the first set.

The fifth-seeded German then powered ahead in the second, breaking Nadal's serve again and holding out to seal a career-first win on clay against the Spaniard.

He will take on third seed Dominic Thiem in Saturday's semi-final after the Austrian overcame John Isner 3-6 6-3 6-4.

Later on Friday, Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan plays fellow qualifier, Casper Ruud, from Norway while eighth seed Matteo Berrettini of Italy faces Chilean 16th seed, Cristian Garin.

Rafa Nadal was knocked out of the Madrid Open quarter-finals stage 6-4 6-4 by German Alex Zverev on Friday. Nadal, a five-time winner in the Spanish capital, was the favourite and top seed having lifted the Barcelona Open trophy last month but played below par on a sweltering spring day.

Rafa Nadal was knocked out of the Madrid Open quarter-finals stage 6-4 6-4 by German Alex Zverev on Friday. Nadal, a five-time winner in the Spanish capital, was the favourite and top seed having lifted the Barcelona Open trophy last month but played below par on a sweltering spring day. Zverev struggled in the opening exchanges, finding himself 4-2 down before breaking Nadal twice to turn the match on its head and take the first set. The fifth-seeded German then powered ahead in the second, breaking Nadal's serve again and holding out to seal a career-first win on clay against the Spaniard. He will take on third seed Dominic Thiem in Saturday's semi-final after the Austrian overcame John Isner 3-6 6-3 6-4. Later on Friday, Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan plays fellow qualifier, Casper Ruud, from Norway while eighth seed Matteo Berrettini of Italy faces Chilean 16th seed, Cristian Garin.

Rafa Nadal defeated by Zverev in Madrid Open quarters

World number seven Alexander Zverev recovered from an uncertain start to beat Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-4 7-6 (3) in a thrilling Mexican Open final in Acapulco on Saturday and land his 14th ATP title.

The 23-year-old German lost the final of the hardcourt tournament to Nick Kyrgios in 2019 and quickly went 4-1 down to the Greek top seed on Sunday, at one point completely missing the ball when attempting an overhead smash.

Tsitsipas was unable to maintain the level of tennis he displayed in the first five games, however, and second seed Zverev worked his way back into the contest, reeling off the last five games to seal the set.

Zverev broke for 5-4 in an equally tight second set and served for the title but Tsitsipas saved a championship point and put the contest back on serve when his German opponent double-faulted.

The set tiebreak was again studded with lengthy rallies and Zverev prevailed 7-3 on his third championship point when he pounced on a Tsitsipas drop shot and pounded the ball past the Greek into the back of the court.

"This week has been one of the most fun I have had in recent months, the tournament showed that the public can attend sporting events," Zverev said to the cheers of the crowd after receiving the trophy.

"When I have my chances, I need to close it out against these top players because normally they won't give you a second chance. I thought I played extremely well in the tiebreak, I'm happy with how it went."

Tsitsipas, who has reached semi-finals at the Australian Open and Rotterdam this year, conceded that the better player had won in the end.

"I did everything I could, but Alex was superior," the 22-year-old world number five said.

World number seven Alexander Zverev recovered from an uncertain start to beat Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-4 7-6 (3) in a thrilling Mexican Open final in Acapulco on Saturday and land his 14th ATP title.

World number seven Alexander Zverev recovered from an uncertain start to beat Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-4 7-6 (3) in a thrilling Mexican Open final in Acapulco on Saturday and land his 14th ATP title. The 23-year-old German lost the final of the hardcourt tournament to Nick Kyrgios in 2019 and quickly went 4-1 down to the Greek top seed on Sunday, at one point completely missing the ball when attempting an overhead smash. Tsitsipas was unable to maintain the level of tennis he displayed in the first five games, however, and second seed Zverev worked his way back into the contest, reeling off the last five games to seal the set. Zverev broke for 5-4 in an equally tight second set and served for the title but Tsitsipas saved a championship point and put the contest back on serve when his German opponent double-faulted. The set tiebreak was again studded with lengthy rallies and Zverev prevailed 7-3 on his third championship point when he pounced on a Tsitsipas drop shot and pounded the ball past the Greek into the back of the court. "This week has been one of the most fun I have had in recent months, the tournament showed that the public can attend sporting events," Zverev said to the cheers of the crowd after receiving the trophy. "When I have my chances, I need to close it out against these top players because normally they won't give you a second chance. I thought I played extremely well in the tiebreak, I'm happy with how it went." Tsitsipas, who has reached semi-finals at the Australian Open and Rotterdam this year, conceded that the better player had won in the end. "I did everything I could, but Alex was superior," the 22-year-old world number five said.

Zverev beats Tsitsipas to win Mexican Open in Acapulco thriller

Alexander Zverev rallied from a set down to beat dangerous Canadian Denis Shapovalov and open his season with a fighting victory in the ATP Cup, while in-form Matteo Berrettini steered Italy into the semi-finals on Wednesday.

The seventh-ranked German had to dig deep for his 6-7 (5/7), 6-3, 7-6 (7/4) win to seal the tie, but gained valuable court time ahead of another crack at a first Grand Slam trophy at the Australian Open starting next week.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Zverev, who fell agonisingly short in the US Open final last year to Dominic Thiem, said having his brother Mischa as team captain had helped him.

"All the players enjoy having him as captain, he's been fantastic in training as well. It's just great to have him here," he said.

Germany's Jan-Lennard Struff upset Milos Raonic 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (7/2) in the opening match and Canada are now out after a second narrow loss for Shapovalov, who pushed Novak Djokovic hard in their Group A clash on Tuesday.

Djokovic's defending champions beat Canada 2-1 in their opener on Tuesday and will play Germany on Thursday for a place in the semis.

<h2>- Berrettini delivers -</h2>

Italy became the first nation into the last four by beating France to follow their opening win against Austria in Group C.

Fabio Fognini won just five games in his ATP Cup opener on Tuesday against Denis Novak, but bounced back to battle past Benoit Paire 6-1, 7-6 (7/2) and give Italy a 1-0 lead.

Berrettini, tipped by Djokovic as among the new generation capable of winning a Grand Slam, clinched the tie with a comfortable 6-4, 6-2 victory over Gael Monfils, ranked a place below him at 11.

"I was ready for any score. I kept going," said Berrettini, who recovered from going down an early break in the first set. "I thought about my weapons and that's how I won the match.

"It's a great team, great guys. We are enjoying on court, but off court as well," he added. "I think when you're playing for your country, for your team, it's something special."

Russia, the only nation playing with two top 10 stars in Daniil Medvedev and Andrey Rublev, could also make the semis if they beat Kei Nishikori's Japan in their evening clash in Group D.

Hosts Australia, who lost to Rafael Nadal's Spain in their opening Group B tie, face a Greek team spearheaded by Stefanos Tsitsipas on Wednesday evening.

Serbia overcame Spain in the final of the inaugural and hugely popular tournament last year in Sydney -- launched as a rival to the Davis Cup.

It has been slimmed down from 24 teams to 12 this year due to the coronavirus over five days at Melbourne Park with $7.5 million at stake, rather than the multi-city format employed in 2020.

Alexander Zverev rallied from a set down to beat dangerous Canadian Denis Shapovalov and open his season with a fighting victory in the ATP Cup, while in-form Matteo Berrettini steered Italy into the semi-finals on Wednesday.

Alexander Zverev rallied from a set down to beat dangerous Canadian Denis Shapovalov and open his season with a fighting victory in the ATP Cup, while in-form Matteo Berrettini steered Italy into the semi-finals on Wednesday. The seventh-ranked German had to dig deep for his 6-7 (5/7), 6-3, 7-6 (7/4) win to seal the tie, but gained valuable court time ahead of another crack at a first Grand Slam trophy at the Australian Open starting next week. Zverev, who fell agonisingly short in the US Open final last year to Dominic Thiem, said having his brother Mischa as team captain had helped him. "All the players enjoy having him as captain, he's been fantastic in training as well. It's just great to have him here," he said. Germany's Jan-Lennard Struff upset Milos Raonic 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (7/2) in the opening match and Canada are now out after a second narrow loss for Shapovalov, who pushed Novak Djokovic hard in their Group A clash on Tuesday. Djokovic's defending champions beat Canada 2-1 in their opener on Tuesday and will play Germany on Thursday for a place in the semis. - Berrettini delivers - Italy became the first nation into the last four by beating France to follow their opening win against Austria in Group C. Fabio Fognini won just five games in his ATP Cup opener on Tuesday against Denis Novak, but bounced back to battle past Benoit Paire 6-1, 7-6 (7/2) and give Italy a 1-0 lead. Berrettini, tipped by Djokovic as among the new generation capable of winning a Grand Slam, clinched the tie with a comfortable 6-4, 6-2 victory over Gael Monfils, ranked a place below him at 11. "I was ready for any score. I kept going," said Berrettini, who recovered from going down an early break in the first set. "I thought about my weapons and that's how I won the match. "It's a great team, great guys. We are enjoying on court, but off court as well," he added. "I think when you're playing for your country, for your team, it's something special." Russia, the only nation playing with two top 10 stars in Daniil Medvedev and Andrey Rublev, could also make the semis if they beat Kei Nishikori's Japan in their evening clash in Group D. Hosts Australia, who lost to Rafael Nadal's Spain in their opening Group B tie, face a Greek team spearheaded by Stefanos Tsitsipas on Wednesday evening. Serbia overcame Spain in the final of the inaugural and hugely popular tournament last year in Sydney -- launched as a rival to the Davis Cup. It has been slimmed down from 24 teams to 12 this year due to the coronavirus over five days at Melbourne Park with $7.5 million at stake, rather than the multi-city format employed in 2020.

Zverev battles to ATP Cup win over Shapovalov, Italy reach semis

German ace Alexander Zverev will commence his 2021 season under a new head coach after parting ways with Spaniard David Ferrer, the world number seven confirmed on social media.

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Ferrer was added in Zverev's coaching staff in the middle of the 2020 season after which the player reached his maiden Grand Slam final at the U.S. Open, where he went down to Dominic Thiem after winning the first two sets.&nbsp;

The German ended the 2020 season on a high after he picked up two ATP titles in Cologne and also made the final of the ATP Masters 1000 event in Paris.&nbsp;

"I would like to thank David for the months we have shared, the times on and off the court, wishing him only the best in the future," Zverev wrote on his Instagram account.

"I also want to thank his family for giving me the chance to spend precious weeks with David during these difficult times. I have tremendous respect for the way David played and coaches tennis."

He will kick off the 2021 season at the team-based ATP Cup which will be played at Melbourne Park a week before the Australian Open is held at the same venue from February 8.

"I had to decide by the end of the year; I spoke to Alexander and told him that I preferred not to continue working with him in 2021," Ferrer told tennis website Punto de Break.

"There wasn't a particular reason or anything; I just thought the time wasn't right. Everything is fine between us ... I'm not the right person to help Alexander at the moment."

German ace Alexander Zverev will commence his 2021 season under a new head coach after parting ways with Spaniard David Ferrer, the world number seven confirmed on social media.

German ace Alexander Zverev will commence his 2021 season under a new head coach after parting ways with Spaniard David Ferrer, the world number seven confirmed on social media. ALSO READ: American ace Amanda Anisimova tests positive for coronavirus: Reports Ferrer was added in Zverev's coaching staff in the middle of the 2020 season after which the player reached his maiden Grand Slam final at the U.S. Open, where he went down to Dominic Thiem after winning the first two sets. The German ended the 2020 season on a high after he picked up two ATP titles in Cologne and also made the final of the ATP Masters 1000 event in Paris. "I would like to thank David for the months we have shared, the times on and off the court, wishing him only the best in the future," Zverev wrote on his Instagram account. "I also want to thank his family for giving me the chance to spend precious weeks with David during these difficult times. I have tremendous respect for the way David played and coaches tennis." He will kick off the 2021 season at the team-based ATP Cup which will be played at Melbourne Park a week before the Australian Open is held at the same venue from February 8. "I had to decide by the end of the year; I spoke to Alexander and told him that I preferred not to continue working with him in 2021," Ferrer told tennis website Punto de Break. "There wasn't a particular reason or anything; I just thought the time wasn't right. Everything is fine between us ... I'm not the right person to help Alexander at the moment."

German ace Alexander Zverev parts ways with coach Ferrer ahead of 2021 season

Russia's Daniil Medvedev defeated German ace Alexander Zverev 5-7, 6-4, 6-1 on Sunday to win the Paris Masters making it his eighth career title and third at a Masters event.

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This is Medvedev's second win against Zverev in seven matches, and his previous victory against the imposing German was also in a Masters final last year in Shanghai.

"I'm sure we'll play many more matches together. We've known each other since we were 10, it's great the journey we're having," Zverev said. "I hope I can do even better next year."

This is Medvedev's first final and title in 2020, whereas, Zverev was playing his third final after winning back-to-back tournaments in Cologne, Germany.

Both players may&nbsp;face each other again at the season-ending ATP Finals in London from November 15-22.

"At the end of the second set I was tired. I was dead. The third set was always going to be very difficult for me," Zverev said. "Once you get a little bit tired against him, he wears you down. He wears you down even more. He makes you run, he makes you move. He’s very composed."

"We will see how it goes with London. I’m happy with my tennis," Zverev said. "I just need to maybe recover a little bit physically."

Russia's Daniil Medvedev defeated German ace Alexander Zverev 5-7, 6-4, 6-1 on Sunday to win the Paris Masters making it his eighth career title and third at a Masters event.

Russia's Daniil Medvedev defeated German ace Alexander Zverev 5-7, 6-4, 6-1 on Sunday to win the Paris Masters making it his eighth career title and third at a Masters event. Also read: Rafael Nadal joins elite list after completing 1000 career wins This is Medvedev's second win against Zverev in seven matches, and his previous victory against the imposing German was also in a Masters final last year in Shanghai. "I'm sure we'll play many more matches together. We've known each other since we were 10, it's great the journey we're having," Zverev said. "I hope I can do even better next year." This is Medvedev's first final and title in 2020, whereas, Zverev was playing his third final after winning back-to-back tournaments in Cologne, Germany. Both players may face each other again at the season-ending ATP Finals in London from November 15-22. "At the end of the second set I was tired. I was dead. The third set was always going to be very difficult for me," Zverev said. "Once you get a little bit tired against him, he wears you down. He wears you down even more. He makes you run, he makes you move. He’s very composed." "We will see how it goes with London. I’m happy with my tennis," Zverev said. "I just need to maybe recover a little bit physically."

Daniil Medvedev beats Alexander Zverev to win his first Paris Masters final

German tennis player Alexander Zverev said on Wednesday that accusations by an ex-girlfriend that he attacked her last year were "not true".

The world number seven insisted last week in a social media post that claims made by Olga Sharypova that he tried to "strangle" her while at last year's US Open were "unfounded" and made him "very sad".

"I have said everything on my Instagram. There is nothing else I can add right now," Zverev said after his 6-2, 6-2 Paris Masters second-round win over Miomir Kecmanovic at Bercy Arena.

"I'm here. I'm here to play tennis. I mean, the relationship, as I said, has been over for a very long time.

"I'm enjoying my time on court. I have said everything. They are not true, and there is nothing more I can say right now."

Zverev has been in good form in recent weeks, winning back-to-back titles on home soil in Cologne, having also reached his maiden Grand Slam final at this year's US Open, where he lost in five sets to Dominic Thiem.

Sharypova did not initially name Zverev in her Instagram post about the alleged abuse, but later confirmed to Russian media that she was referring to her fellow 23-year-old.

Sharypova claimed also that her head was hit against a wall and that she was forced to flee a hotel barefoot.

"I'm here to play tennis," added Zverev. "I have been doing that well the last few weeks... Since the comeback of the season, and I want to continue doing that.

"There is obviously a little bit of things going on."

Zverev will face Frenchman Adrian Mannarino in the Paris third round on Thursday.

German tennis player Alexander Zverev said on Wednesday that accusations by an ex-girlfriend that he attacked her last year were "not true". The world number seven insisted last week in a social media post that claims made by Olga Sharypova that he tried to "strangle" her while at last year's US Open were "unfounded" and made him "very sad".

German tennis player Alexander Zverev said on Wednesday that accusations by an ex-girlfriend that he attacked her last year were "not true". The world number seven insisted last week in a social media post that claims made by Olga Sharypova that he tried to "strangle" her while at last year's US Open were "unfounded" and made him "very sad". "I have said everything on my Instagram. There is nothing else I can add right now," Zverev said after his 6-2, 6-2 Paris Masters second-round win over Miomir Kecmanovic at Bercy Arena. "I'm here. I'm here to play tennis. I mean, the relationship, as I said, has been over for a very long time. "I'm enjoying my time on court. I have said everything. They are not true, and there is nothing more I can say right now." Zverev has been in good form in recent weeks, winning back-to-back titles on home soil in Cologne, having also reached his maiden Grand Slam final at this year's US Open, where he lost in five sets to Dominic Thiem. Sharypova did not initially name Zverev in her Instagram post about the alleged abuse, but later confirmed to Russian media that she was referring to her fellow 23-year-old. Sharypova claimed also that her head was hit against a wall and that she was forced to flee a hotel barefoot. "I'm here to play tennis," added Zverev. "I have been doing that well the last few weeks... Since the comeback of the season, and I want to continue doing that. "There is obviously a little bit of things going on." Zverev will face Frenchman Adrian Mannarino in the Paris third round on Thursday.

Zverev again says domestic assault allegations 'not true'

Alexander Zverev pledged to bounce back from his bitterly disappointing loss in the final of the US Open on Sunday to capture a Grand Slam one day.

The 23-year-old German went two sets and a break up in his first Grand Slam final before losing in five sets to Austria's Dominic Thiem.

"I was super close to being a Grand Slam champion. I was a few games away, maybe a few points away," a dejected Zverev told reporters.

"For me what upset me the most is not the third set, it's the fifth set," when he was serving for the championship at 5-3.

"I had a lot of chances in the fifth set and didn't use them," he added.

The second seeded Thiem beat the fifth seed Zverev 2-6, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 7-6 (8/6) in 4hr 2min.

It was the first time in the US Open's Open era history that a player had recovered from losing the opening two sets to win the title.

It was also the first time the final had been settled by a tie-break.

Zverev said it hurt to lose in the manner he did.

"Obviously being two sets to love and a break up in a Grand Slam final then losing is not easy," he told reporters.

Zverev's debut appearance in the last-two of a tennis major came after he reached the semi-finals of the Australian Open earlier this year.

Zverev said the rawness of the Flushing Meadows defeat meant it was too soon to say whether he had taken any positives from going a step further.

"That question is probably two, three days too early to ask right now," he said.

But the German, who came into the tournament ranked seventh in the world, added that he was sure he would capture a tennis major in the future.

"I'm 23 years old. I don't think it's my last chance. I do believe that I will be a Grand Slam champion at some point," he said.

Alexander Zverev pledged to bounce back from his bitterly disappointing loss in the final of the US Open on Sunday to capture a Grand Slam one day. The 23-year-old German went two sets and a break up in his first Grand Slam final before losing in five sets to Austria's Dominic Thiem.

Alexander Zverev pledged to bounce back from his bitterly disappointing loss in the final of the US Open on Sunday to capture a Grand Slam one day. The 23-year-old German went two sets and a break up in his first Grand Slam final before losing in five sets to Austria's Dominic Thiem. "I was super close to being a Grand Slam champion. I was a few games away, maybe a few points away," a dejected Zverev told reporters. "For me what upset me the most is not the third set, it's the fifth set," when he was serving for the championship at 5-3. "I had a lot of chances in the fifth set and didn't use them," he added. The second seeded Thiem beat the fifth seed Zverev 2-6, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 7-6 (8/6) in 4hr 2min. It was the first time in the US Open's Open era history that a player had recovered from losing the opening two sets to win the title. It was also the first time the final had been settled by a tie-break. Zverev said it hurt to lose in the manner he did. "Obviously being two sets to love and a break up in a Grand Slam final then losing is not easy," he told reporters. Zverev's debut appearance in the last-two of a tennis major came after he reached the semi-finals of the Australian Open earlier this year. Zverev said the rawness of the Flushing Meadows defeat meant it was too soon to say whether he had taken any positives from going a step further. "That question is probably two, three days too early to ask right now," he said. But the German, who came into the tournament ranked seventh in the world, added that he was sure he would capture a tennis major in the future. "I'm 23 years old. I don't think it's my last chance. I do believe that I will be a Grand Slam champion at some point," he said.

'I will be a Grand Slam champion,' says Zverev after US Open loss

Austria’s Dominic Thiem became country's second Grand Slam singles champion as he defeated Alexander Zverev in the US Open final on Sunday.

After dropping the opening two sets against Alexander Zverev — Thiem slowly but surely turned things around for a 2-6, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 7-6 (6) victory across more than four hours to earn his first major championship, performing the greatest comeback in men's Major finals since Roland Garros 2004 to earn tennis glory.

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That winning feeling 😀<a href="https://twitter.com/ThiemDomi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ThiemDomi</a> I <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/7Gy9SFaTJY">pic.twitter.com/7Gy9SFaTJY</a>
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It marked the first time in the US Open's Open Era history that a player had recovered from losing the opening two sets to win the title.

The 27-year-old became the youngest Grand Slam champion and first maiden Grand Slam champion since Marin Cilic in 2014.&nbsp;

Thiem has played three Grand Slam finals - losing twice to Rafael Nadal in the French Open and once to Novak Djokovic in the Australian Open.

(With inputs from agencies)

Austria’s Dominic Thiem became country's second Grand Slam singles champion as he defeated Alexander Zverev in the US Open final on Sunday. After dropping the opening two sets against Alexander Zverev — Thiem slowly but surely turned things around for a 2-6, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 7-6 (6) victory across more than four hours to earn his first major championship, performing the greatest comeback in men's Major finals since Roland Garros 2004 to earn tennis glory.

Austria’s Dominic Thiem became country's second Grand Slam singles champion as he defeated Alexander Zverev in the US Open final on Sunday. After dropping the opening two sets against Alexander Zverev — Thiem slowly but surely turned things around for a 2-6, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 7-6 (6) victory across more than four hours to earn his first major championship, performing the greatest comeback in men's Major finals since Roland Garros 2004 to earn tennis glory. That winning feeling 😀@ThiemDomi I #USOpen pic.twitter.com/7Gy9SFaTJY — US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 14, 2020 × It marked the first time in the US Open's Open Era history that a player had recovered from losing the opening two sets to win the title. The 27-year-old became the youngest Grand Slam champion and first maiden Grand Slam champion since Marin Cilic in 2014. Thiem has played three Grand Slam finals - losing twice to Rafael Nadal in the French Open and once to Novak Djokovic in the Australian Open. (With inputs from agencies)

US Open 2020 men's final: Dominic Thiem wins first grand slam title

Fifth seed Alexander Zverev defeated Borna Coric in four sets to reach the US Open semi-finals on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The German overcame the 27th-seeded Croatian 1-6, 7-6 (7/5), 7-6 (7/1), 6-3 in 3hr 25min inside Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Zverev, seeking a maiden Grand Slam title, will play either 12th seed Canadian Denis Shapovalov or Spain's 20th seed Pablo Carreno Busta for a place in the final.

The 23-year-old Zverev said he stepped on the gas after finding himself a set down, and 4-2 behind in the second set.

"I just started playing maybe a little bit more aggressive because if I would have played the way I played it's not the level for a quarter-final match of a Grand Slam," he said.

"I just started playing better. I was a little bit more consistent and as well, my serve got better.

"I thought to myself I'm down 6-1, 4-2, I have nothing to lose at the moment," Zverev added.

Zverev performed well when kept his first serves in play. He smashed 18 aces, while the 23-year-old Coric could only make five.

The world number seven struggled with consistency at times, however.

He hit 12 double faults, ten more than Coric.

Zverev won 76 percent of first serve points compared to just 41 percent on his second serve.

The German hit far more winners than the Croatian though, 52 to 37.

It was a close contest, with Zverev accumulating 136 points in total, just four more than Coric.

The disqualification of top seed Novak Djokovic on Sunday blew the men's competition at Flushing Meadows wide open.

His departure means the US Open will crown a first-time Grand Slam winner on Sunday.

In Wednesday's quarter-final matches, second seed Dominic Thiem plays Australia's Alex de Minaur and third seed Daniil Medvedev takes on Russian compatriot Andrey Rublev.

Fifth seed Alexander Zverev defeated Borna Coric in four sets to reach the US Open semi-finals on Tuesday. The German overcame the 27th-seeded Croatian 1-6, 7-6 (7/5), 7-6 (7/1), 6-3 in 3hr 25min inside Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Fifth seed Alexander Zverev defeated Borna Coric in four sets to reach the US Open semi-finals on Tuesday. The German overcame the 27th-seeded Croatian 1-6, 7-6 (7/5), 7-6 (7/1), 6-3 in 3hr 25min inside Arthur Ashe Stadium. Zverev, seeking a maiden Grand Slam title, will play either 12th seed Canadian Denis Shapovalov or Spain's 20th seed Pablo Carreno Busta for a place in the final. The 23-year-old Zverev said he stepped on the gas after finding himself a set down, and 4-2 behind in the second set. "I just started playing maybe a little bit more aggressive because if I would have played the way I played it's not the level for a quarter-final match of a Grand Slam," he said. "I just started playing better. I was a little bit more consistent and as well, my serve got better. "I thought to myself I'm down 6-1, 4-2, I have nothing to lose at the moment," Zverev added. Zverev performed well when kept his first serves in play. He smashed 18 aces, while the 23-year-old Coric could only make five. The world number seven struggled with consistency at times, however. He hit 12 double faults, ten more than Coric. Zverev won 76 percent of first serve points compared to just 41 percent on his second serve. The German hit far more winners than the Croatian though, 52 to 37. It was a close contest, with Zverev accumulating 136 points in total, just four more than Coric. The disqualification of top seed Novak Djokovic on Sunday blew the men's competition at Flushing Meadows wide open. His departure means the US Open will crown a first-time Grand Slam winner on Sunday. In Wednesday's quarter-final matches, second seed Dominic Thiem plays Australia's Alex de Minaur and third seed Daniil Medvedev takes on Russian compatriot Andrey Rublev.

Alexander Zverev beats Borna Coric to reach US Open semi-finals

Broadcaster ESPN claimed a new world record for attendance at a tennis match on Saturday, with more than 42,000 people watching Germany's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../atp-finals-dominic-thiem-into-finals-with-win- over-zverev-262686">Alexander Zverev</a> go down 6-3, 4-6, 2-6 to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../atp-finals-novak-djokovics-hopes-crushed-as- roger-federer-serves-up-a-masterclass-262232">Roger Federer</a> in an exhibition match in Mexico City.

That smashed an almost decade-old record of 35,681 set at an exhibition game between Belgian Kim Clijsters and Serena Williams in Belgium in 2010.

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B5PBsE8FGOK/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">An absolute magical evening in Mexico City, Gracias to all 42’517 people that came to set a new world record. This one is for you, Viva Mexico ❤️❤️❤️❤️</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/rogerfederer/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Roger Federer</a> (@rogerfederer) on <time datetime="2019-11-24T04:29:04+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Nov 23, 2019 at 8:29pm PST</time>
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ESPN put the exact number of fans in Mexico City’s bullring at 42,517.

Even before Saturday's match, Federer had announced his intention to set a new world record for attendance when he meets Rafael Nadal in an exhibition match in South Africa in February.

That duel will be staged at the Cape Town Stadium, which has a capacity of 55,000. It will also have the draw of a preceding doubles

Broadcaster ESPN claimed a new world record for attendance at a tennis match on Saturday, with more than 42,000 people watching Germany's Alexander Zverev go down 6-3, 4-6, 2-6 to Roger Federer in an exhibition match in Mexico City.

Broadcaster ESPN claimed a new world record for attendance at a tennis match on Saturday, with more than 42,000 people watching Germany's Alexander Zverev go down 6-3, 4-6, 2-6 to Roger Federer in an exhibition match in Mexico City. That smashed an almost decade-old record of 35,681 set at an exhibition game between Belgian Kim Clijsters and Serena Williams in Belgium in 2010. View this post on Instagram An absolute magical evening in Mexico City, Gracias to all 42’517 people that came to set a new world record. This one is for you, Viva Mexico ❤️❤️❤️❤️ A post shared by Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) on Nov 23, 2019 at 8:29pm PST × ESPN put the exact number of fans in Mexico City’s bullring at 42,517. Even before Saturday's match, Federer had announced his intention to set a new world record for attendance when he meets Rafael Nadal in an exhibition match in South Africa in February. That duel will be staged at the Cape Town Stadium, which has a capacity of 55,000. It will also have the draw of a preceding doubles

Roger Federer and Alexander Zverev exhibition match breaks world attendance record

Dominic Thiem was at his dominant best as he dismantled defending champion Alexander Zverev 7-5 6-3 on Saturday to storm into the final of the season-ending <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-knocked-out-from-atp-finals-despite-win-over-stefanos-tsitsipas-zverev-through-to-semis-262521">ATP finals</a>.

Austrian Thiem, 26, will face Greek youngster Stefanos Tsitsipas on Sunday for the top prize at London's O2 Arena after he dispatched six-times champion Roger Federer.

There was little to separate the players until the 12th game when a tense Zverev suddenly tightened up and double-faulted on set point to hand his rival the set.

Zverev, who began this year's tournament in superb fashion by beating Rafael Nadal in a group clash, flung his racket across the court in frustration.

Thiem, who has played glorious tennis this week despite suffering with a cold, looked the more solid player and broke the big-serving Zverev to take a 4-2 lead in the second set.

Zverev had a chance to break back but world number five Thiem held firm to consolidate.

Serving for the match, Thiem closed out victory on his first match point with a forehand passing shot down the line.

Thiem is the first Austrian to reach the final of the ATP's exclusive year-ender in its 50-year history and it will be a fitting end to a superb season which caught fire after hiring former Olympic champion Nicolas Massu as coach.

He has won five titles including his first Masters 1000 crown at Indian Wells. He also reached his second successive French Open final, losing to Nadal.

Looking ahead to the clash with 21-year-old debutant Tsitsipas, Thiem said: "One handed back-handed finals, I guess! We are both offensive players, he is very attractive to watch, I love to watch him and I am looking forward to playing him again.

"And I'm happy to be playing again here tomorrow in front of this amazing atmosphere." 
&nbsp;

Dominic Thiem was at his dominant best as he dismantled defending champion Alexander Zverev 7-5 6-3 on Saturday to storm into the final of the season-ending ATP finals.

Dominic Thiem was at his dominant best as he dismantled defending champion Alexander Zverev 7-5 6-3 on Saturday to storm into the final of the season-ending ATP finals. Austrian Thiem, 26, will face Greek youngster Stefanos Tsitsipas on Sunday for the top prize at London's O2 Arena after he dispatched six-times champion Roger Federer. There was little to separate the players until the 12th game when a tense Zverev suddenly tightened up and double-faulted on set point to hand his rival the set. Zverev, who began this year's tournament in superb fashion by beating Rafael Nadal in a group clash, flung his racket across the court in frustration. Thiem, who has played glorious tennis this week despite suffering with a cold, looked the more solid player and broke the big-serving Zverev to take a 4-2 lead in the second set. Zverev had a chance to break back but world number five Thiem held firm to consolidate. Serving for the match, Thiem closed out victory on his first match point with a forehand passing shot down the line. Thiem is the first Austrian to reach the final of the ATP's exclusive year-ender in its 50-year history and it will be a fitting end to a superb season which caught fire after hiring former Olympic champion Nicolas Massu as coach. He has won five titles including his first Masters 1000 crown at Indian Wells. He also reached his second successive French Open final, losing to Nadal. Looking ahead to the clash with 21-year-old debutant Tsitsipas, Thiem said: "One handed back-handed finals, I guess! We are both offensive players, he is very attractive to watch, I love to watch him and I am looking forward to playing him again. "And I'm happy to be playing again here tomorrow in front of this amazing atmosphere."

ATP Finals: Dominic Thiem into finals with win over Zverev

For the second time in three days at the ATP Finals, Rafael Nadal fought off one of the game's rising powers but beating Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas proved in vain as his semi-final hopes vanished on Friday.

The indomitable Spaniard delighted his fans in the 02 Arena as he recovered from losing the opening set to beat Tsitsipas 6-7(4) 6-4 7-5, after which he was presented with a huge trophy for sealing the end-of-year number one ranking.

Sadly for Nadal, and all those who were looking forward to him taking on Roger Federer in Saturday's semi-finals, Germany's defending champion Alexander Zverev had not read the script.

The round-robin format at the ATP Finals throws up some complicated scenarios. None more so than Friday.

Tsitsipas had already qualified for the semi-finals courtesy of wins over Daniil Medvedev and Zverev, while Nadal needed a win and for Medvedev to beat Zverev in the night match.

Had that happened he would have topped the group. Instead, Zverev's clinical 6-4 7-6(4) win relegated Nadal to third despite also having two wins. Tsitsipas won the group while Zverev took second place courtesy of his head-to-head advantage over Nadal who he beat impressively on Monday.

Perhaps it had been asking too much for the 23-year-old Medvedev to save him. After all, Nadal beat the Russian in an epic US Open final, came back from 1-5 down in the third set to beat him here on Wednesday and then his win over Tsitsipas effectively ended Medvedev's slim semi-final chances.

The Russian won more matches (59) then any other player this year but was not at his best against Zverev and went home from his London debut with three losses.

Tsitsipas must now recover from his near three-hour loss to Nadal to face Federer in Saturday's first semi-final before Zverev takes on Austrian Dominic Thiem.

Super happy

Federer's win to knock out Novak Djokovic on Thursday meant Nadal will end the year as number one for the fifth time.

But the Herculean effort he put in to beat Tsitsipas suggested he really wanted to get his hands on the ATP Finals trophy for the first time after finishing runner-up in 2010 and 2013.

At least Nadal signed off in style. After winning a 12th French Open this year and the US&nbsp;Open and reaching the final at the Australian Open and semi-final at Wimbledon, few could deny him his trophy celebration on Friday.

"Honestly, what can I say? I am super happy," Nadal, the oldest man to finish a year ranked number one, told the crowd. "After all the things that I went through in my career in terms of injuries, I never thought at the age of 33 and a half that I will have this trophy in my hands again."

Tsitsipas had not dropped a set before Friday and duly took the opening set with an ace to clinch a tiebreak.

Nadal was never going down without a fight though and began to play with a frightening intensity in the second set, pumping himself up with roars of "Vamos" after winning key points.

Tsitsipas saved break points at 2-2 and 3-3 but Nadal was now in hunting mode and at 4-4 he finally cornered his prey to break for the first time.

The final set went with serve as the two players slugged it out from the baseline but Tsitsipas blinked first, dropping serve at 5-5 when Nadal forced a volley error.

Nadal then held serve for victory but rather than prepare for a 41st clash with Federer he can instead focus on next week's revamped Davis Cup Finals.

Tsitsipas, whose all-court style has made such an impression on his debut, might rue the energy expended in going toe-to-toe with the game's greatest warrior.

"I wanted to win but probably wasn't willing to die on the court for that, my main focus is doing well in the semi-finals," he said. "I did leave something in the tank."

World number one doubles pair Juan Sebastian Cabal and Robert Farah scraped into the semi-finals after beating German duo Kevin Krawietz and Andreas Mies 7-6(7) 6-2 for their first group win. They will face Raven Klassen and Michael Venus.

For the second time in three days at the ATP Finals, Rafael Nadal fought off one of the game's rising powers but beating Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas proved in vain as his semi-final hopes vanished on Friday.

For the second time in three days at the ATP Finals, Rafael Nadal fought off one of the game's rising powers but beating Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas proved in vain as his semi-final hopes vanished on Friday. The indomitable Spaniard delighted his fans in the 02 Arena as he recovered from losing the opening set to beat Tsitsipas 6-7(4) 6-4 7-5, after which he was presented with a huge trophy for sealing the end-of-year number one ranking. Sadly for Nadal, and all those who were looking forward to him taking on Roger Federer in Saturday's semi-finals, Germany's defending champion Alexander Zverev had not read the script. The round-robin format at the ATP Finals throws up some complicated scenarios. None more so than Friday. Tsitsipas had already qualified for the semi-finals courtesy of wins over Daniil Medvedev and Zverev, while Nadal needed a win and for Medvedev to beat Zverev in the night match. Had that happened he would have topped the group. Instead, Zverev's clinical 6-4 7-6(4) win relegated Nadal to third despite also having two wins. Tsitsipas won the group while Zverev took second place courtesy of his head-to-head advantage over Nadal who he beat impressively on Monday. Perhaps it had been asking too much for the 23-year-old Medvedev to save him. After all, Nadal beat the Russian in an epic US Open final, came back from 1-5 down in the third set to beat him here on Wednesday and then his win over Tsitsipas effectively ended Medvedev's slim semi-final chances. The Russian won more matches (59) then any other player this year but was not at his best against Zverev and went home from his London debut with three losses. Tsitsipas must now recover from his near three-hour loss to Nadal to face Federer in Saturday's first semi-final before Zverev takes on Austrian Dominic Thiem. Super happy Federer's win to knock out Novak Djokovic on Thursday meant Nadal will end the year as number one for the fifth time. But the Herculean effort he put in to beat Tsitsipas suggested he really wanted to get his hands on the ATP Finals trophy for the first time after finishing runner-up in 2010 and 2013. At least Nadal signed off in style. After winning a 12th French Open this year and the US Open and reaching the final at the Australian Open and semi-final at Wimbledon, few could deny him his trophy celebration on Friday. "Honestly, what can I say? I am super happy," Nadal, the oldest man to finish a year ranked number one, told the crowd. "After all the things that I went through in my career in terms of injuries, I never thought at the age of 33 and a half that I will have this trophy in my hands again." Tsitsipas had not dropped a set before Friday and duly took the opening set with an ace to clinch a tiebreak. Nadal was never going down without a fight though and began to play with a frightening intensity in the second set, pumping himself up with roars of "Vamos" after winning key points. Tsitsipas saved break points at 2-2 and 3-3 but Nadal was now in hunting mode and at 4-4 he finally cornered his prey to break for the first time. The final set went with serve as the two players slugged it out from the baseline but Tsitsipas blinked first, dropping serve at 5-5 when Nadal forced a volley error. Nadal then held serve for victory but rather than prepare for a 41st clash with Federer he can instead focus on next week's revamped Davis Cup Finals. Tsitsipas, whose all-court style has made such an impression on his debut, might rue the energy expended in going toe-to-toe with the game's greatest warrior. "I wanted to win but probably wasn't willing to die on the court for that, my main focus is doing well in the semi-finals," he said. "I did leave something in the tank." World number one doubles pair Juan Sebastian Cabal and Robert Farah scraped into the semi-finals after beating German duo Kevin Krawietz and Andreas Mies 7-6(7) 6-2 for their first group win. They will face Raven Klassen and Michael Venus.

Rafael Nadal knocked out from ATP Finals despite win over Stefanos Tsitsipas, Zverev through to semis

Six-times Grand Slam champion Boris Becker will captain Germany at next year's inaugural ATP Cup, while fellow former world number ones Marat Safin and Thomas Muster will lead Russia and Austria at the nation-based tournament.

Becker, who won his first major title at Wimbledon in 1985, was chosen by world No. 7 Alexander Zverev to captain Germany, who are drawn in Group F alongside Greece, Canada and hosts Australia and play their matches in Brisbane.

The 24-nation ATP Cup will take place from Jan. 3-12 in Brisbane, Perth, and Sydney.

"We have a strong chance in an extremely competitive section of the draw," Becker said in an ATP Cup media release.

"Playing against the very best and representing your country sets the tone, sets the sport. I think we're going to see amazing tennis."

Safin, who won the U.S. Open in 2000 and the centenary Australian Open five years later, will lead a Russian team that includes world No. 4 Daniil Medvedev and No. 17 Karen Khachanov.

"We have a real chance of winning the first Cup with the caliber of players we have on the Russian side and I'll be doing everything I can to make that happen from the bench," he said.

Russia faces Italy, the United States, and Norway in Group D and will play their group games in Perth.

Muster, who claimed the world's top ranking in 1996 after winning the French Open the previous year, was chosen as captain by world No. 5 Dominic Thiem and welcomed the opportunity to lock horns with his former adversaries.

"The ATP Cup brings some old rivals together as captains," he said. "The cream of tennis is competing across Australia and the playing field is incredibly strong, I feel very excited to be part of it all."

The winners of the six groups and the two best second-placed finishers reach the ATP Cup Finals in Sydney. Each tie comprises two singles and one double match.

Six-times Grand Slam champion Boris Becker will captain Germany at next year's inaugural ATP Cup, while fellow former world number ones Marat Safin and Thomas Muster will lead Russia and Austria at the nation-based tournament.

Six-times Grand Slam champion Boris Becker will captain Germany at next year's inaugural ATP Cup, while fellow former world number ones Marat Safin and Thomas Muster will lead Russia and Austria at the nation-based tournament. Becker, who won his first major title at Wimbledon in 1985, was chosen by world No. 7 Alexander Zverev to captain Germany, who are drawn in Group F alongside Greece, Canada and hosts Australia and play their matches in Brisbane. The 24-nation ATP Cup will take place from Jan. 3-12 in Brisbane, Perth, and Sydney. "We have a strong chance in an extremely competitive section of the draw," Becker said in an ATP Cup media release. "Playing against the very best and representing your country sets the tone, sets the sport. I think we're going to see amazing tennis." Safin, who won the U.S. Open in 2000 and the centenary Australian Open five years later, will lead a Russian team that includes world No. 4 Daniil Medvedev and No. 17 Karen Khachanov. "We have a real chance of winning the first Cup with the caliber of players we have on the Russian side and I'll be doing everything I can to make that happen from the bench," he said. Russia faces Italy, the United States, and Norway in Group D and will play their group games in Perth. Muster, who claimed the world's top ranking in 1996 after winning the French Open the previous year, was chosen as captain by world No. 5 Dominic Thiem and welcomed the opportunity to lock horns with his former adversaries. "The ATP Cup brings some old rivals together as captains," he said. "The cream of tennis is competing across Australia and the playing field is incredibly strong, I feel very excited to be part of it all." The winners of the six groups and the two best second-placed finishers reach the ATP Cup Finals in Sydney. Each tie comprises two singles and one double match.

Tennis: Becker, Safin and Muster named ATP Cup team captains

Debutant <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-finals-tsitsipas-gets-win-he-craved-over-medvedev-261546">Stefanos Tsitsipas</a> crushed defending champion <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-finals-alexander-zverev-tastes-first-victory-over-rafael-nadal-261539">Alexander Zverev</a> 6-3 6-2 on Wednesday to book his place in the last four of the&nbsp;ATP&nbsp;Finals&nbsp;with a match to spare.

The 21-year-old, the first Greek player to qualify for the elite eight-man season-ender, backed up his opening round-robin win over Daniil Medvedev with another virtuoso performance at the O2 Arena and is yet to lose a set.

His emphatic victory secured a top-two place in the group and left Zverev, world number one Rafael Nadal and Medvedev scrapping to join him in Saturday's semi-finals.

A year ago Tsitsipas was winning the NextGen title in Milan -&nbsp;the&nbsp;ATP's showcase event for up-and-coming players -&nbsp;and in his two matches so far in London, he has bolstered the impression that he has the game to start collecting Grand Slam titles.

His swashbuckling all-court game, with a booming serve, aggressive groundstrokes, deft volleys and silky movement have made him an instant crowd favourite at the O2 Arena.

All those weapons were on display against Zverev in what was the youngest, in terms of combined age, match at the&nbsp;ATP&nbsp;Finals&nbsp;since Andy Murray played Juan Martin del Potro in 2009.

Zverev's last three matches at the O2 were straight-sets victories over Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Nadal -- a trio with 55 Grand Slam titles between them.

But the form of Monday's group-stage win over Nadal deserted him as Tsitsipas, with whom he is said to have a frosty relationship, beat him for the fourth time in five matches.

Tsitsipas broke in the eighth game when Zverev opted to follow in a weak second serve and made a mess of a low volley.

From that point on it was one-way traffic.

Zverev's level tailed off alarmingly in the second set and Tsitsipas wrapped things up with an ace.

Tsitsipas later revealed he had needed a painkilling injection in a foot injury.

Yet despite having already reached the semis, he will not take his foot off the gas against Nadal on Friday when he could knock the Spaniard out.

"I'm going to give it my all. I'm going to try to give my soul, and I think it's also a very good challenge for me in order to prepare for more difficult matches in the semi-finals," he said. "It's going to educate me, and I'm going to try to get and absorb as much as I can from that."

Debutant Stefanos Tsitsipas crushed defending champion Alexander Zverev 6-3 6-2 on Wednesday to book his place in the last four of the ATP Finals with a match to spare.

Debutant Stefanos Tsitsipas crushed defending champion Alexander Zverev 6-3 6-2 on Wednesday to book his place in the last four of the ATP Finals with a match to spare. The 21-year-old, the first Greek player to qualify for the elite eight-man season-ender, backed up his opening round-robin win over Daniil Medvedev with another virtuoso performance at the O2 Arena and is yet to lose a set. His emphatic victory secured a top-two place in the group and left Zverev, world number one Rafael Nadal and Medvedev scrapping to join him in Saturday's semi-finals. A year ago Tsitsipas was winning the NextGen title in Milan - the ATP's showcase event for up-and-coming players - and in his two matches so far in London, he has bolstered the impression that he has the game to start collecting Grand Slam titles. His swashbuckling all-court game, with a booming serve, aggressive groundstrokes, deft volleys and silky movement have made him an instant crowd favourite at the O2 Arena. All those weapons were on display against Zverev in what was the youngest, in terms of combined age, match at the ATP Finals since Andy Murray played Juan Martin del Potro in 2009. Zverev's last three matches at the O2 were straight-sets victories over Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Nadal -- a trio with 55 Grand Slam titles between them. But the form of Monday's group-stage win over Nadal deserted him as Tsitsipas, with whom he is said to have a frosty relationship, beat him for the fourth time in five matches. Tsitsipas broke in the eighth game when Zverev opted to follow in a weak second serve and made a mess of a low volley. From that point on it was one-way traffic. Zverev's level tailed off alarmingly in the second set and Tsitsipas wrapped things up with an ace. Tsitsipas later revealed he had needed a painkilling injection in a foot injury. Yet despite having already reached the semis, he will not take his foot off the gas against Nadal on Friday when he could knock the Spaniard out. "I'm going to give it my all. I'm going to try to give my soul, and I think it's also a very good challenge for me in order to prepare for more difficult matches in the semi-finals," he said. "It's going to educate me, and I'm going to try to get and absorb as much as I can from that."

Tsitsipas thrashes Zverev to reach ATP semis

It proved quite a day for ending losing streaks at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-finals-djokovic-thrashes-berrettini-thiem-stuns-federer-261312">ATP Finals </a>on Monday as Alexander Zverev tasted a first victory over Rafael&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;after Stefanos Tsitsipas got the better of Russian bogeyman Daniil Medvedev.

Both Zverev and Tsitsipas walked out on the huge O2 Arena with 0-5 career records against their opponents but they turned the tables with a couple of dazzling displays.

Tsitsipas beat Medvedev 7-6(5) 6-4 before Germany's Zverev, the surprise title winner last year, thumped an out-of-kilter&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;6-2 6-4 to seal a rare hat-trick.

He might not have won a Grand Slam title yet but after beating <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-finals-federer-up-against-it-after-thiem-defeat-261316">Roger Federer</a> and Novak Djokovic in the semi-final and final last year, he opened his defence by outplaying&nbsp;Nadal.

The Spaniard, who took his major haul to 19 this year, has a patchy record at the tournament. He has never won the title, appeared only eight times despite qualifying on 15 occasions and on his last visit, in 2017, withdrew injured.

The world number one refused to blame an abdominal strain picked up this month in Paris for his poor showing.

"It was not a problem with the abdominal at all," the 33-year-old&nbsp;Nadal, who will face Medvedev in his second round-robin match in a repeat of the US&nbsp;Open final, told reporters.

"I did not feel pain. We can find reasons or excuses, but at the end of the day, all that really matters is I need to play much better in two days.

"I needed my best competitive spirit today, and I was not there in that way."

Zverev, 22, has salvaged what initially looked like being a poor year with a late-season flourish to qualify for the showpiece and he produced a confident display to dominate.

Serving regularly at 140mph and crunching angled groundstrokes, he gave&nbsp;Nadal's abdominals a thorough workout.

He took control by breaking in the fifth game and repeated the feat two games later when&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;blazed a wild forehand wide.

Some scintillating net play earned the German another break at the start of the second set. He stayed rock solid thereafter, not giving&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;even a sniff of a chance to make a comeback.

"It is obviously great," said the world number seven. "Everyone knows how much I have struggled the whole season. It means so much to be playing here again where I won my biggest title last season. It means everything to me."

In terms of&nbsp;Nadal's hopes of sealing the ATP year-end top ranking for a fifth time, nothing has changed.

He arrived in London with a 640-point lead over Djokovic. With 200 points for each group win, Djokovic cut that deficit on Sunday by thrashing Italian Matteo Berrettini.

Even if&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;suffered a recurrence of the injury or lost all of his group matches, Djokovic must still reach the final to overtake the Spaniard and match Pete Sampras's record of finishing a year as number one on six occasions.

Earlier on Monday a large crowd were treated to a high-quality duel between two players seemingly destined to be vying with Zverev for the games biggest prizes.

Tsitsipas gave a swashbuckling display against Medvedev in the first opening round-robin match between two debutants since 2007 and celebrated like he had won the title, a reaction perhaps born out of past friction between the two young guns.

"It means more than extra. It's a victory that I craved for a long time now," the 21-year-old Tsitsipas, the first Greek to qualify for the eight-man tournament, told reporters.

"Our chemistry definitely isn't the best that you can find on the Tour. It just happens with people that it's not that you can just like everyone." Tsitsipas plays Zverev on Wednesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-djokovic-has-world-number-one-nadal-in-his-sights-at-london-finale-260669">Five-time champion Djokovic</a> can close the gap further on&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;on Tuesday when he takes on Austrian Dominic Thiem.

It proved quite a day for ending losing streaks at the ATP Finals on Monday as Alexander Zverev tasted a first victory over Rafael Nadal after Stefanos Tsitsipas got the better of Russian bogeyman Daniil Medvedev.

It proved quite a day for ending losing streaks at the ATP Finals on Monday as Alexander Zverev tasted a first victory over Rafael Nadal after Stefanos Tsitsipas got the better of Russian bogeyman Daniil Medvedev. Both Zverev and Tsitsipas walked out on the huge O2 Arena with 0-5 career records against their opponents but they turned the tables with a couple of dazzling displays. Tsitsipas beat Medvedev 7-6(5) 6-4 before Germany's Zverev, the surprise title winner last year, thumped an out-of-kilter Nadal 6-2 6-4 to seal a rare hat-trick. He might not have won a Grand Slam title yet but after beating Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic in the semi-final and final last year, he opened his defence by outplaying Nadal. The Spaniard, who took his major haul to 19 this year, has a patchy record at the tournament. He has never won the title, appeared only eight times despite qualifying on 15 occasions and on his last visit, in 2017, withdrew injured. The world number one refused to blame an abdominal strain picked up this month in Paris for his poor showing. "It was not a problem with the abdominal at all," the 33-year-old Nadal, who will face Medvedev in his second round-robin match in a repeat of the US Open final, told reporters. "I did not feel pain. We can find reasons or excuses, but at the end of the day, all that really matters is I need to play much better in two days. "I needed my best competitive spirit today, and I was not there in that way." Zverev, 22, has salvaged what initially looked like being a poor year with a late-season flourish to qualify for the showpiece and he produced a confident display to dominate. Serving regularly at 140mph and crunching angled groundstrokes, he gave Nadal's abdominals a thorough workout. He took control by breaking in the fifth game and repeated the feat two games later when Nadal blazed a wild forehand wide. Some scintillating net play earned the German another break at the start of the second set. He stayed rock solid thereafter, not giving Nadal even a sniff of a chance to make a comeback. "It is obviously great," said the world number seven. "Everyone knows how much I have struggled the whole season. It means so much to be playing here again where I won my biggest title last season. It means everything to me." In terms of Nadal's hopes of sealing the ATP year-end top ranking for a fifth time, nothing has changed. He arrived in London with a 640-point lead over Djokovic. With 200 points for each group win, Djokovic cut that deficit on Sunday by thrashing Italian Matteo Berrettini. Even if Nadal suffered a recurrence of the injury or lost all of his group matches, Djokovic must still reach the final to overtake the Spaniard and match Pete Sampras's record of finishing a year as number one on six occasions. Earlier on Monday a large crowd were treated to a high-quality duel between two players seemingly destined to be vying with Zverev for the games biggest prizes. Tsitsipas gave a swashbuckling display against Medvedev in the first opening round-robin match between two debutants since 2007 and celebrated like he had won the title, a reaction perhaps born out of past friction between the two young guns. "It means more than extra. It's a victory that I craved for a long time now," the 21-year-old Tsitsipas, the first Greek to qualify for the eight-man tournament, told reporters. "Our chemistry definitely isn't the best that you can find on the Tour. It just happens with people that it's not that you can just like everyone." Tsitsipas plays Zverev on Wednesday. Five-time champion Djokovic can close the gap further on Nadal on Tuesday when he takes on Austrian Dominic Thiem.

ATP Finals: Alexander Zverev tastes first victory over Rafael Nadal

Alexander Zverev sealed a dramatic Laver Cup victory for Europe over Team World in Geneva on Sunday, as the German beat Milos Raonic in the deciding singles match.

The holders trailed 11-7 midway through the final day but Zverev, after Roger Federer had edged past John Isner, downed Raonic 6-4, 3-6, 10-4 to deny John McEnroe's visitors their maiden triumph in the third edition of the event.

Instead, Bjorn Borg's Europe made it three wins from three since the inaugural staging in 2017.

"Team World came once again very close but we won the right points and had maybe a little bit of luck," said captain Borg.

"I'm very proud of my team, they did a hell of a job. I'm a very happy captain."

After Rafael Nadal withdrew from Sunday's play with a hand injury, Isner and Jack Sock beat Federer and Stefanos Tsitsipas in the opening doubles encounter, before Taylor Fritz saw off Dominic Thiem to leave Team World one win from the trophy.

But Federer claimed a 6-4, 7-6 (7/3) victory over Isner to set up a winner-takes-all clash between Zverev and Raonic.

World number six Zverev took the first set courtesy of a break in game seven, with big-serving Canadian Raonic hitting back to force a super tie-break, saving four break points to serve out the second set.

But Zverev, selected by Borg ahead of Tsitsipas and Fabio Fognini for the first-ever Laver Cup decider, raced to victory as Raonic's serve deserted him.

The 22-year-old, who also clinched Europe's win last year by beating Kevin Anderson, fired a brilliant cross-court forehand past Raonic on his first match point.

"I've never played in something like that, it was unbelievable," said Zverev.

"It's very special, especially playing in front of those guys and them trusting me to play the last singles game. This event is something I hope to play in every single year of my career."

Europe will defend their title in 2020 at TD Garden in Boston from September 25-27.

Federer keeps Europe alive

Federer had to win a tense tie-break over world number 20 Isner to take three points in the penultimate match, smashing an ace on the final point to raise the roof in Geneva, after the American had somehow shot wide on the previous point with the court at his mercy.

"I'm thrilled that I was able to give something back to the team," said Federer.

"Obviously to see Rafa on the sidelines after having to pull out with an injury, it's great camaraderie I feel."

Team World had started the day 7-5 behind.

Fritz had earlier put Team World to within touching distance of a shock success with a 7-5, 6-7 (3/7), 10-5 win over Thiem.

The American, himself a replacement for the injured Nick Kyrgios, followed up Isner and Sock's 5-7, 6-4, 10-8 defeat of Federer and Tsitsipas with a surprise tie-break triumph over world number five Thiem.

"That was such a big match for Team World to win, we really needed that," said Fritz.

"This has to be one of the biggest wins of my career. It means so much more when you're playing for other people as well."

This year is the first time the tournament has been played since being added to the ATP Tour.

Europe won the 2018 edition 13-8 in Chicago.

Alexander Zverev sealed a dramatic Laver Cup victory for Europe over Team World in Geneva on Sunday, as the German beat Milos Raonic in the deciding singles match.

Alexander Zverev sealed a dramatic Laver Cup victory for Europe over Team World in Geneva on Sunday, as the German beat Milos Raonic in the deciding singles match. The holders trailed 11-7 midway through the final day but Zverev, after Roger Federer had edged past John Isner, downed Raonic 6-4, 3-6, 10-4 to deny John McEnroe's visitors their maiden triumph in the third edition of the event. Instead, Bjorn Borg's Europe made it three wins from three since the inaugural staging in 2017. "Team World came once again very close but we won the right points and had maybe a little bit of luck," said captain Borg. "I'm very proud of my team, they did a hell of a job. I'm a very happy captain." After Rafael Nadal withdrew from Sunday's play with a hand injury, Isner and Jack Sock beat Federer and Stefanos Tsitsipas in the opening doubles encounter, before Taylor Fritz saw off Dominic Thiem to leave Team World one win from the trophy. But Federer claimed a 6-4, 7-6 (7/3) victory over Isner to set up a winner-takes-all clash between Zverev and Raonic. World number six Zverev took the first set courtesy of a break in game seven, with big-serving Canadian Raonic hitting back to force a super tie-break, saving four break points to serve out the second set. But Zverev, selected by Borg ahead of Tsitsipas and Fabio Fognini for the first-ever Laver Cup decider, raced to victory as Raonic's serve deserted him. The 22-year-old, who also clinched Europe's win last year by beating Kevin Anderson, fired a brilliant cross-court forehand past Raonic on his first match point. "I've never played in something like that, it was unbelievable," said Zverev. "It's very special, especially playing in front of those guys and them trusting me to play the last singles game. This event is something I hope to play in every single year of my career." Europe will defend their title in 2020 at TD Garden in Boston from September 25-27. Federer keeps Europe alive Federer had to win a tense tie-break over world number 20 Isner to take three points in the penultimate match, smashing an ace on the final point to raise the roof in Geneva, after the American had somehow shot wide on the previous point with the court at his mercy. "I'm thrilled that I was able to give something back to the team," said Federer. "Obviously to see Rafa on the sidelines after having to pull out with an injury, it's great camaraderie I feel." Team World had started the day 7-5 behind. Fritz had earlier put Team World to within touching distance of a shock success with a 7-5, 6-7 (3/7), 10-5 win over Thiem. The American, himself a replacement for the injured Nick Kyrgios, followed up Isner and Sock's 5-7, 6-4, 10-8 defeat of Federer and Tsitsipas with a surprise tie-break triumph over world number five Thiem. "That was such a big match for Team World to win, we really needed that," said Fritz. "This has to be one of the biggest wins of my career. It means so much more when you're playing for other people as well." This year is the first time the tournament has been played since being added to the ATP Tour. Europe won the 2018 edition 13-8 in Chicago.

Alexander Zverev clinches Europe thrilling Laver Cup victory

Nadal wins, Osaka ousted on day 8 at US Open

From Naomi Osaka to Maria Sharapova, shocking upsets at Wimbledon'19 round one

Young guns Stefanos Tsitsipas and Alexander Zverev suffered shock first-round defeats at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-novak-djokovic-sweeps-through-under-keen-gaze-of-ivanisevic-232118">Wimbledon </a>on Monday as the sixth and seventh seeds were bundled out within an hour of each other.

Greek Tsitsipas entered the tournament tipped as the man most likely to challenge the authority of the big three but was beaten 6-4, 3-6, 6-4, 6-7(8), 6-3 by 89th-ranked Italian Thomas Fabbiano who produced an inspired display on Court Two.

Tsitsipas saved two match points in the fourth-set tiebreak but Fabbiano was relentless and when he broke in the seventh game of the decider with a cruel net cord, it was clear it was not going to be Tsitsipas's day.

"I wouldn't actually deserve the victory today even if I would have won because I didn't play well," the 20-year-old, who reached this year's Australian Open semi-final after beating Roger Federer, told reporters.

He found himself in good company through the exit door though as Germany's Zverev ran into Czech qualifier Jiri Vesely and was also sent packing, losing 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, 7-5.

The 22-year-old seemed on course for victory when he won the first set but the powerfully-built Vesely roared back.

Zverev, coached by Ivan Lendl, slipped when serving at 5-6, 15-30 in the fourth set, handing his opponent two match points, and netted a backhand volley to seal his fate.

"It was kind of a typical <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-stan-wawrinka-means-business-as-he-opens-with-easy-victory-232095">Grand Slam</a> match for me. I started off well, then one or two things don't go my way, and everything kind of a little bit falls apart," he said.

Young guns Stefanos Tsitsipas and Alexander Zverev suffered shock first-round defeats at Wimbledon on Monday as the sixth and seventh seeds were bundled out within an hour of each other.

Young guns Stefanos Tsitsipas and Alexander Zverev suffered shock first-round defeats at Wimbledon on Monday as the sixth and seventh seeds were bundled out within an hour of each other. Greek Tsitsipas entered the tournament tipped as the man most likely to challenge the authority of the big three but was beaten 6-4, 3-6, 6-4, 6-7(8), 6-3 by 89th-ranked Italian Thomas Fabbiano who produced an inspired display on Court Two. Tsitsipas saved two match points in the fourth-set tiebreak but Fabbiano was relentless and when he broke in the seventh game of the decider with a cruel net cord, it was clear it was not going to be Tsitsipas's day. "I wouldn't actually deserve the victory today even if I would have won because I didn't play well," the 20-year-old, who reached this year's Australian Open semi-final after beating Roger Federer, told reporters. He found himself in good company through the exit door though as Germany's Zverev ran into Czech qualifier Jiri Vesely and was also sent packing, losing 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, 7-5. The 22-year-old seemed on course for victory when he won the first set but the powerfully-built Vesely roared back. Zverev, coached by Ivan Lendl, slipped when serving at 5-6, 15-30 in the fourth set, handing his opponent two match points, and netted a backhand volley to seal his fate. "It was kind of a typical Grand Slam match for me. I started off well, then one or two things don't go my way, and everything kind of a little bit falls apart," he said.

Wimbledon: Young guns Stefanos Tsitsipas, Alexander Zverev suffer shock exits

American 15-year-old Cori Gauff stole the show on the opening day of Wimbledon with a debut victory over five-time champion and her inspiration Venus Williams.

Gauff, the youngest woman ever to survive the qualifying tournament, played like a seasoned performer as she clinically beat the 39-year-old great 6-4, 6-4 to earn a standing ovation from an enchanted Court One crowd.

"I wouldn't say I didn't expect to win the match. I knew that I was going to go out there and play the way I play," Gauff, who claimed victory on her fourth match point, told reporters.

"I wasn't surprised that I won. I mean, I was just overwhelmed at the end," Gauff said.

Her victory put everything else in the shade on an opening day full of shocks in both draws.

World number two and second seed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/second-seed-naomi-osaka-crashes-out-in-first-round-of-wimbledon-232123">Naomi Osaka</a> lost 7-6(4), 6-2 to dangerous Kazakh Yulia Putintseva who had also got the better of her in their recent match in Birmingham - a defeat that effectively cost Osaka the number one ranking.

US&nbsp;Open and Australian Open champion Osaka appeared close to tears when she spoke to the media later.

"Can I leave? I feel like I'm about to cry," the Japanese 21-year-old said.

French Open runner-up Marketa Vondrousova, the 16th seed, also bowed out but former world number ones Karolina Pliskova, Caroline Wozniacki, Simona Halep and Victoria Azarenka all made it safely through to the second round.

DJOKOVIC UNTROUBLED

Men's defending champion <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-novak-djokovic-sweeps-through-under-keen-gaze-of-ivanisevic-232118">Novak Djokovic</a> was untroubled as he began his quest for a fifth Wimbledon crown that would take him level on the all-time list with Swedish great Bjorn Borg.

The Serb, with former champion Goran Ivanisevic in his box, beat Germany's Philipp Kohlschreiber 6-3, 7-5, 6-3.

It was a bad day for two of the young guns expected to lead the new generation into a brave new era, however.

Sixth seed Alexander Zverev lost 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, 7-5 to Czech Jiri Vesely while Greek 20-year-old Stefanos Tsitsipas went down in five sets to Italian journeyman Thomas Fabbiano.

Tsitsipas, in particular, was highly-fancied to have a long run at the All England Club having reached the Australian Open semi-final this year but lost 6-4, 3-6, 6-4, 6-7(8), 6-3.

"He was just better than me today. I think the way I played, it should have been in three, not five. I don't know how I got to five. I guess with my fighting spirit, somehow I managed to win those two sets," he said.

Croatia's 40-year-old Ivo Karlovic, one of 47 men aged 30 or over in the men's singles, became the oldest man to play a first-round match in the Wimbledon singles since Ken Rosewall in 1975.

The giant Croat served 20 aces as he beat Andrea Arnaboldi in straight sets and will meet Fabbiano next.

Last year's runner-up Kevin Anderson cruised through in straight sets against Pierre-Hugues Herbert.

Eight-time champion Roger Federer and women's defending champion Angelique Kerber, as well as 23-time Grand Slam champion Serena Williams, start their campaigns on Tuesday.

American 15-year-old Cori Gauff stole the show on the opening day of Wimbledon with a debut victory over five-time champion and her inspiration Venus Williams. Gauff, the youngest woman ever to survive the qualifying tournament, played like a seasoned performer as she clinically beat the 39-year-old great 6-4, 6-4 to earn a standing ovation from an enchanted Court One crowd.

American 15-year-old Cori Gauff stole the show on the opening day of Wimbledon with a debut victory over five-time champion and her inspiration Venus Williams. Gauff, the youngest woman ever to survive the qualifying tournament, played like a seasoned performer as she clinically beat the 39-year-old great 6-4, 6-4 to earn a standing ovation from an enchanted Court One crowd. "I wouldn't say I didn't expect to win the match. I knew that I was going to go out there and play the way I play," Gauff, who claimed victory on her fourth match point, told reporters. "I wasn't surprised that I won. I mean, I was just overwhelmed at the end," Gauff said. Her victory put everything else in the shade on an opening day full of shocks in both draws. World number two and second seed Naomi Osaka lost 7-6(4), 6-2 to dangerous Kazakh Yulia Putintseva who had also got the better of her in their recent match in Birmingham - a defeat that effectively cost Osaka the number one ranking. US Open and Australian Open champion Osaka appeared close to tears when she spoke to the media later. "Can I leave? I feel like I'm about to cry," the Japanese 21-year-old said. French Open runner-up Marketa Vondrousova, the 16th seed, also bowed out but former world number ones Karolina Pliskova, Caroline Wozniacki, Simona Halep and Victoria Azarenka all made it safely through to the second round. DJOKOVIC UNTROUBLED Men's defending champion Novak Djokovic was untroubled as he began his quest for a fifth Wimbledon crown that would take him level on the all-time list with Swedish great Bjorn Borg. The Serb, with former champion Goran Ivanisevic in his box, beat Germany's Philipp Kohlschreiber 6-3, 7-5, 6-3. It was a bad day for two of the young guns expected to lead the new generation into a brave new era, however. Sixth seed Alexander Zverev lost 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, 7-5 to Czech Jiri Vesely while Greek 20-year-old Stefanos Tsitsipas went down in five sets to Italian journeyman Thomas Fabbiano. Tsitsipas, in particular, was highly-fancied to have a long run at the All England Club having reached the Australian Open semi-final this year but lost 6-4, 3-6, 6-4, 6-7(8), 6-3. "He was just better than me today. I think the way I played, it should have been in three, not five. I don't know how I got to five. I guess with my fighting spirit, somehow I managed to win those two sets," he said. Croatia's 40-year-old Ivo Karlovic, one of 47 men aged 30 or over in the men's singles, became the oldest man to play a first-round match in the Wimbledon singles since Ken Rosewall in 1975. The giant Croat served 20 aces as he beat Andrea Arnaboldi in straight sets and will meet Fabbiano next. Last year's runner-up Kevin Anderson cruised through in straight sets against Pierre-Hugues Herbert. Eight-time champion Roger Federer and women's defending champion Angelique Kerber, as well as 23-time Grand Slam champion Serena Williams, start their campaigns on Tuesday.

Wimbledon: 15-year-old Cori Gauff stuns idol Venus Williams to steal day one limelight

World number four Alexander Zverev's quest for a first title at the Halle Open came to a grinding halt as the two-times runner-up was stunned 3-6, 6-1, 7-6(3) by David Goffin in the quarter-finals on Friday.

Belgium's Goffin saved seven of 10 break points to overcome the tournament's second seed and home favourite in two hours and 16 minutes to set up a semi-final clash with Italy's Matteo Berrettini, who beat third seed Karen Khachanov 6-2, 7-6(4).

Although <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/halle-open-alexander-zverev-cruises-into-second-round-gael-monfils-ousted-228212&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj40-GjuPziAhXGeisKHdyEC30QFjABegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0-6IgsW1C3wUqbbi8PVUKS">Zverev </a>fired 14 aces in the match, his erratic serve was on display at the Gerry Weber Stadion as the 22-year-old made nine double faults to lose to Goffin for the first time in three meetings between the pair.

Goffin had a chance to seal the match in the third set at 5-4 but Zverev saved two match points to take it to a tiebreak, where the Belgian triumphed after winning all his service points.

Later, Roger Federer survived a mid-match scare to get past Spaniard Roberto Bautista Agut 6-3, 4-6, 6-4 and reach the last-four at Halle for a 15th time as he chases a 10th title in the tournament.

Up next for <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/halle-open-roger-federer-comes-through-tricky-jo-wilfried-tsonga-test-to-reach-quarters-229131&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj40-GjuPziAhXGeisKHdyEC30QFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2TaWABlb-WS6UAlQmfbd-S">Federer </a>is Frenchman Pierre-Hugues Herbert who progressed after defending champion Borna Coric was forced to retire from their quarter-final after dropping the opening set 7-5 due to a suspected back injury.

World number four Alexander Zverev's quest for a first title at the Halle Open came to a grinding halt as the two-times runner-up was stunned 3-6, 6-1, 7-6(3) by David Goffin in the quarter-finals on Friday.

World number four Alexander Zverev's quest for a first title at the Halle Open came to a grinding halt as the two-times runner-up was stunned 3-6, 6-1, 7-6(3) by David Goffin in the quarter-finals on Friday. Belgium's Goffin saved seven of 10 break points to overcome the tournament's second seed and home favourite in two hours and 16 minutes to set up a semi-final clash with Italy's Matteo Berrettini, who beat third seed Karen Khachanov 6-2, 7-6(4). Although Zverev fired 14 aces in the match, his erratic serve was on display at the Gerry Weber Stadion as the 22-year-old made nine double faults to lose to Goffin for the first time in three meetings between the pair. Goffin had a chance to seal the match in the third set at 5-4 but Zverev saved two match points to take it to a tiebreak, where the Belgian triumphed after winning all his service points. Later, Roger Federer survived a mid-match scare to get past Spaniard Roberto Bautista Agut 6-3, 4-6, 6-4 and reach the last-four at Halle for a 15th time as he chases a 10th title in the tournament. Up next for Federer is Frenchman Pierre-Hugues Herbert who progressed after defending champion Borna Coric was forced to retire from their quarter-final after dropping the opening set 7-5 due to a suspected back injury.

Halle Open: Alexander Zverev tumbles out of quarters after defeat by David Goffin

Roger Federer was made to work hard by <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/halle-open-nothing-to-lose-says-jo-wilfried-tsonga-ahead-of-roger-federer-clash-228891&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjokM299fniAhWD7GEKHU_EAOEQFjACegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0k5StyJlQHGNByiXCXauFw">Jo-Wilfried Tsonga</a> at the Halle Open on Thursday before he sealed a 7-6(5), 4-6, 7-5 victory in the second round to continue his charge towards a 10th title at the grasscourt tournament.

The 20-times Grand Slam winner, who is using the tournament to prepare for next month's <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/halle-open-roger-federer-begins-grasscourt-season-with-win-over-john-millman-228558&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjokM299fniAhWD7GEKHU_EAOEQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw14QoR62UxCyzgiEmtJZhqV">Wimbledon </a>championships, converted two out of four break points to come through a tight match in two hours and 16 minutes.

The 37-year-old Swiss, who has reached the Halle quarter-finals for a 17th time, next meets Roberto Bautista Agut who defeated Frenchman Richard Gasquet 6-1, 6-4.

Germany's Alexander Zverev, the runner-up in 2016 and 2017, stayed in the hunt for a first Halle title with a 6-3, 7-5 victory over Steve Johnson to set up a quarter-final against the unseeded David Goffin.

"I'm definitely happy with how things went," <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/halle-open-alexander-zverev-cruises-into-second-round-gael-monfils-ousted-228212&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjokM299fniAhWD7GEKHU_EAOEQFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1oh95QoFBjhf1AtNyxTjFa">Zverev</a>, who withdrew from the doubles competition on Tuesday due to a knee problem, said.

"Obviously my knee is still swollen but the pain is much less than it was a few days ago. I hope when the swelling goes out it will be much better,"&nbsp;Zverev said.

Belgium's Goffin, the 2017 ATP finals runner-up who has slipped to number 33 in the world, has lost his two meetings with second seed Zverev but both matches were played on clay.

Matteo Berrettini, who rallied past Italian compatriot Andreas Seppi 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, is seeking his third ATP title and second on grass following his success in Stuttgart last week.

Up next for Berrettini is Russian Karen Khachanov who has failed to defeat the big-hitting world number 22 in two previous attempts, including in the second round at Stuttgart.

Roger Federer was made to work hard by Jo-Wilfried Tsonga at the Halle Open on Thursday before he sealed a 7-6(5), 4-6, 7-5 victory in the second round to continue his charge towards a 10th title at the grasscourt tournament.

Roger Federer was made to work hard by Jo-Wilfried Tsonga at the Halle Open on Thursday before he sealed a 7-6(5), 4-6, 7-5 victory in the second round to continue his charge towards a 10th title at the grasscourt tournament. The 20-times Grand Slam winner, who is using the tournament to prepare for next month's Wimbledon championships, converted two out of four break points to come through a tight match in two hours and 16 minutes. The 37-year-old Swiss, who has reached the Halle quarter-finals for a 17th time, next meets Roberto Bautista Agut who defeated Frenchman Richard Gasquet 6-1, 6-4. Germany's Alexander Zverev, the runner-up in 2016 and 2017, stayed in the hunt for a first Halle title with a 6-3, 7-5 victory over Steve Johnson to set up a quarter-final against the unseeded David Goffin. "I'm definitely happy with how things went," Zverev, who withdrew from the doubles competition on Tuesday due to a knee problem, said. "Obviously my knee is still swollen but the pain is much less than it was a few days ago. I hope when the swelling goes out it will be much better," Zverev said. Belgium's Goffin, the 2017 ATP finals runner-up who has slipped to number 33 in the world, has lost his two meetings with second seed Zverev but both matches were played on clay. Matteo Berrettini, who rallied past Italian compatriot Andreas Seppi 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, is seeking his third ATP title and second on grass following his success in Stuttgart last week. Up next for Berrettini is Russian Karen Khachanov who has failed to defeat the big-hitting world number 22 in two previous attempts, including in the second round at Stuttgart.

Halle Open: Roger Federer comes through tricky Jo-Wilfried Tsonga test to reach quarters

World number five Alexander Zverev of Germany breezed into the second round of the Halle Open with a 6-4, 7-5 victory over Dutchman Robin Hasse on Monday.

Second-seeded <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-winner-rafael-nadal-still-lagging-novak-djokovic-in-rankings-226068&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj8w4iis_LiAhVKto8KHVPXBL0QFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2UK2hM5H0UGLMa9bRQ8nvS">Zverev </a>struggled on serve at times and finished with seven double faults but he fired 12 aces and converted four break points to advance after an hour and 45 minutes.

Russian third seed Karen Khachanov also progressed by winning 7-6(5),&nbsp;6-4 against Serbia's Miomir Kecmanovic -&nbsp;a late replacement for Damir Dzumhur who withdrew from the tournament.

However, there was an early upset when fifth seed Gael Monfils lost 7-6(6), 6-4 to French compatriot Pierre-Hugues Herbert.&nbsp;

Top seed <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-rafael-nadal-beats-roger-federer-to-reach-12th-final-225296&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjo1_ySs_LiAhXFpY8KHeQqB3UQFjAIegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3VkZEMX0axZZRxyVP2SJcd">Roger Federer</a> is in action on Tuesday against John Millman, who beat the Swiss at the US&nbsp;Open last year.

World number five Alexander Zverev of Germany breezed into the second round of the Halle Open with a 6-4, 7-5 victory over Dutchman Robin Hasse on Monday. Second-seeded Zverev struggled on serve at times and finished with seven double faults but he fired 12 aces and converted four break points to advance after an hour and 45 minutes.

World number five Alexander Zverev of Germany breezed into the second round of the Halle Open with a 6-4, 7-5 victory over Dutchman Robin Hasse on Monday. Second-seeded Zverev struggled on serve at times and finished with seven double faults but he fired 12 aces and converted four break points to advance after an hour and 45 minutes. Russian third seed Karen Khachanov also progressed by winning 7-6(5), 6-4 against Serbia's Miomir Kecmanovic - a late replacement for Damir Dzumhur who withdrew from the tournament. However, there was an early upset when fifth seed Gael Monfils lost 7-6(6), 6-4 to French compatriot Pierre-Hugues Herbert. Top seed Roger Federer is in action on Tuesday against John Millman, who beat the Swiss at the US Open last year.

Halle Open: Alexander Zverev cruises into second round, Gael Monfils ousted

French Open 2019: Know all the quarter-finalists of Men's singles

Alexander Zverev was made to work hard to reach the second round of the French Open with a 7-6 (7-4), 6-3, 2-6, 6-7 (5-7) 6-3 win over Australian John Millman on Tuesday.

The German fifth seed, looking for a major breakthrough on the Grand Slam stage, needed more than four hours to see off the world number 56 and set up a meeting with Swedish qualifier Mikael Ymer.

The 22-year-old Zverev, one of the leading figures of the sport's 'new generation', claimed his best result at a major when he reached the quarter-finals at Roland Garros last year.

For a moment, it seemed he could be sent packing on his first day on court.

Millman cancelled out Zverev's early break with the German winning the resulting tiebreak in the opener before sailing through the second set.

But Zverev never looked comfortable in changing conditions on Court Philippe Chatrier and he was overpowered in the third, Millman taking the tie into a fourth set with a powerful forehand winner.

Zverev stole his serve but Millman turned it around to force a tiebreak, which he won to take the match into a decider.

That did not please Zverev, who destroyed his racket in frustration.

But a timely break in the ninth game of the fifth set had him serve for the match. There were no nerves on display as Zverev ended the contest on his first match point.

Alexander Zverev was made to work hard to reach the second round of the French Open with a 7-6 (7-4), 6-3, 2-6, 6-7 (5-7) 6-3 win over Australian John Millman on Tuesday.

Alexander Zverev was made to work hard to reach the second round of the French Open with a 7-6 (7-4), 6-3, 2-6, 6-7 (5-7) 6-3 win over Australian John Millman on Tuesday. The German fifth seed, looking for a major breakthrough on the Grand Slam stage, needed more than four hours to see off the world number 56 and set up a meeting with Swedish qualifier Mikael Ymer. The 22-year-old Zverev, one of the leading figures of the sport's 'new generation', claimed his best result at a major when he reached the quarter-finals at Roland Garros last year. For a moment, it seemed he could be sent packing on his first day on court. Millman cancelled out Zverev's early break with the German winning the resulting tiebreak in the opener before sailing through the second set. But Zverev never looked comfortable in changing conditions on Court Philippe Chatrier and he was overpowered in the third, Millman taking the tie into a fourth set with a powerful forehand winner. Zverev stole his serve but Millman turned it around to force a tiebreak, which he won to take the match into a decider. That did not please Zverev, who destroyed his racket in frustration. But a timely break in the ninth game of the fifth set had him serve for the match. There were no nerves on display as Zverev ended the contest on his first match point.

French Open: Alexander Zverev defeats John Millman to enter second round

World number five Alexander Zverev continued his poor recent form as he crashed out of the Italian Open in the second round while Serena Williams had to pull out of the women's draw with a recurring knee injury on Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-good-to-be-back-serena-eases-to-victory-in-rome-return-218459&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwitm5nsgp3iAhXu6nMBHarRB7MQFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2l24bREUr0_M4_TxF61G52">Serena had beaten Swede Rebecca Peterson in straight sets on Monday</a> and was due to face sister Venus but the injury means her participation at the May 26-June&nbsp;French Open is in doubt.&nbsp;

Zverev, who has not got past the quarter-finals at any tournament since reaching the Acapulco final in early March, did little to suggest he could be a contender at Roland Garros after a 7-5, 7-5 defeat by home favourite Matteo Berrettini.&nbsp;

Roared on by a partisan home crowd at the Foro Italico, Berrettini took the opening three games before the German, 2017 champion and last year's runner-up, regained his composure.

Berrettini then saved five break points to take a 6-5 lead before the rattled Zverev, who beat the Italian in the same round last year, threw away the opening set with two unforced errors and a double fault.&nbsp;

They traded breaks early in the second before Zverev, who saved a match point in the 10th game, committed another flurry of errors, capped by a forehand into the net that handed Berrettini a memorable win.

"The environment was great, the match that I played was horrendous," said the 22-year-old Zverev.&nbsp;

World number five Alexander Zverev continued his poor recent form as he crashed out of the Italian Open in the second round while Serena Williams had to pull out of the women's draw with a recurring knee injury on Tuesday.

World number five Alexander Zverev continued his poor recent form as he crashed out of the Italian Open in the second round while Serena Williams had to pull out of the women's draw with a recurring knee injury on Tuesday. Serena had beaten Swede Rebecca Peterson in straight sets on Monday and was due to face sister Venus but the injury means her participation at the May 26-June French Open is in doubt. Zverev, who has not got past the quarter-finals at any tournament since reaching the Acapulco final in early March, did little to suggest he could be a contender at Roland Garros after a 7-5, 7-5 defeat by home favourite Matteo Berrettini. Roared on by a partisan home crowd at the Foro Italico, Berrettini took the opening three games before the German, 2017 champion and last year's runner-up, regained his composure. Berrettini then saved five break points to take a 6-5 lead before the rattled Zverev, who beat the Italian in the same round last year, threw away the opening set with two unforced errors and a double fault. They traded breaks early in the second before Zverev, who saved a match point in the 10th game, committed another flurry of errors, capped by a forehand into the net that handed Berrettini a memorable win. "The environment was great, the match that I played was horrendous," said the 22-year-old Zverev.

Italian Open: Injured Serena Williams withdraws, Alexander Zverev crashes out

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