A couple of days back, Andy Murray said that he was in the "bad books" at home as he lost his wedding ring in California, which was tied to the laces of his shoes. British tennis star <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-andy-murrays-plea-over-stolen-wedding-ring-sums-up-the-plight-of-every-married-man-418912">gave details of the incident</a>, issuing a plea as he asked for help in recovering the missing items.&nbsp;

Murray had said that his shoes reeked so badly as he decided to leave them under the vehicle outside his hotel in California overnight to dry them out overnight. However, the 'idiotic' decision led to them being stolen.&nbsp;

Murray, who married Kim Sears in 2015, is finally in "back in the good books" now with his wife after his wedding ring and stinky were returned to him. "Little update for everyone. Would you believe it?" Murray said before taking a big whiff of the footwear. "They still absolutely stink but the shoes are back, the wedding ring is back, and I'm back in the good books," he added.

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The shoes are back. 👟 
The ring is back. 💍 
 
Let’s go, <a href="https://twitter.com/andy_murray?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@andy_murray</a>!!! 💪<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BNPPO21?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BNPPO21</a> <a href="https://t.co/hA5VKX98mm">pic.twitter.com/hA5VKX98mm</a>
— ATP Tour (@atptour) <a href="https://twitter.com/atptour/status/1446237870574825502?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Murray is currently in California for the Indian Wells tournament, where sealed a comfortable 6-3, 6-2 win over Frenchman Adrian Mannarino in the first round of the Indian Wells tournament on Friday (October 8).

The Briton was happy with his performance, firing five aces and striking 19 winners to secure his first victory at the Indian Wells since 2016, but said the missing items dilemma before the match nearly pushed him to contact the police.&nbsp;

"'So basically the day after we realised they were, let's say, misplaced or someone had moved them, I went and I spoke to the lost and found a couple times at the hotel that day. They said they'd found nothing," Murray said.&nbsp;

"I spoke to security. They said they found nothing. I was like, 'Well, they're gone'. I was going to file a police report to try to get them back or to increase my chance of getting them back," he added.&nbsp;

Murray will face 18-year-old Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz in the second round.&nbsp;

A couple of days back, Andy Murray said that he was in the "bad books" at home as he lost his wedding ring in California, which was tied to the laces of his shoes.

A couple of days back, Andy Murray said that he was in the "bad books" at home as he lost his wedding ring in California, which was tied to the laces of his shoes. British tennis star gave details of the incident, issuing a plea as he asked for help in recovering the missing items. Murray had said that his shoes reeked so badly as he decided to leave them under the vehicle outside his hotel in California overnight to dry them out overnight. However, the 'idiotic' decision led to them being stolen. Murray, who married Kim Sears in 2015, is finally in "back in the good books" now with his wife after his wedding ring and stinky were returned to him. "Little update for everyone. Would you believe it?" Murray said before taking a big whiff of the footwear. "They still absolutely stink but the shoes are back, the wedding ring is back, and I'm back in the good books," he added. ALSO READ | US Open champion Emma Raducanu sent packing by world No. 100 at Indian Wells The shoes are back. 👟 The ring is back. 💍 Let’s go, @andy_murray!!! 💪#BNPPO21 pic.twitter.com/hA5VKX98mm — ATP Tour (@atptour) October 7, 2021 × Murray is currently in California for the Indian Wells tournament, where sealed a comfortable 6-3, 6-2 win over Frenchman Adrian Mannarino in the first round of the Indian Wells tournament on Friday (October 8). The Briton was happy with his performance, firing five aces and striking 19 winners to secure his first victory at the Indian Wells since 2016, but said the missing items dilemma before the match nearly pushed him to contact the police. "'So basically the day after we realised they were, let's say, misplaced or someone had moved them, I went and I spoke to the lost and found a couple times at the hotel that day. They said they'd found nothing," Murray said. "I spoke to security. They said they found nothing. I was like, 'Well, they're gone'. I was going to file a police report to try to get them back or to increase my chance of getting them back," he added. Murray will face 18-year-old Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz in the second round.

Lost and found: Andy Murray's wedding ring remains in headline as he reaches second round at Indian Wells

British tennis star Andy Murray issued a plea after his shoes and wedding ring were stolen in California as he is now in the "bad books" at home. The incident pretty much sums up the plight of every married man in the world.&nbsp;

Murray, who is currently in California for the Indian Wells tournament, revealed in a&nbsp;video posted by ATP's Twitter handel, that an 'idiotic' decision to dry his sweaty shoes led to them being stolen.&nbsp;

The three-time Grand Slam winner said that he left his tennis shoes underneath his car to dry out overnight in front of the hotel room, but they had vanished when he returned in the morning.&nbsp;

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Murray, who married Kim Sears in 2015, has played with his wedding ring attached to one of his laces as he can't play while wearing it in his finger.&nbsp;

That's exactly&nbsp;happened when he took part in a practice session ahead of his opener in the Indian Wells tournament against Frenchman Adrian Mannarino.

He said that when his physio asked about his wedding band, then he realised he had left the ring tied to his footwear.&nbsp;

Watch the video here:

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🎾 <a href="https://twitter.com/andy_murray?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@andy_murray</a> needs your help! 
 
His tennis shoes have been stolen and, attached to them, is his wedding ring. Oops.<a href="https://t.co/4bBDDlels6">pic.twitter.com/4bBDDlels6</a>
— The Sportsman (@TheSportsman) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheSportsman/status/1446057351761563648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"Last night after dinner in Indian Wells, I got back in the car to go back to the hotel and it didn't smell great. I'd left my tennis shoes in there ... it's been like 38-39 degrees so the shoes are damp, sweaty and smelly," Murray said in the video.

Murray said he left his shoes underneath the car to avoid the "stink" in his room but when he got back to the car in the morning they were gone.

"I decided when I got back to the hotel that the shoes needed some air, I needed to dry them out a bit ... I have no balcony in my room and didn't want to leave them in my room to stink the room out.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-man-of-many-talents-rohit-sharma-imitates-mi-legends-shares-video-on-instagram-watch-418679">IPL 2021: Man of many talents! Rohit Sharma imitates MI legends, shares video on Instagram - WATCH</a>

"So I thought I'm going to leave the shoes under the car ... overnight. When I got back to the car in the morning the shoes were gone. I had to go to a local pro shop to buy different shoes to what I normally wear ... which isn't the end of the world but not ideal.

"I was preparing for my practice when my physio said to me 'where's your wedding ring?' And I was like 'oh no' .... So yeah, my ring has been stolen as well. Needless to say I'm in the bad books at home so I want to try and find it."

British tennis star Andy Murray issued a plea after his shoes and wedding ring were stolen in California as he is now in the "bad books" at home. The incident pretty much sums up the plight of every married man in the world.

British tennis star Andy Murray issued a plea after his shoes and wedding ring were stolen in California as he is now in the "bad books" at home. The incident pretty much sums up the plight of every married man in the world. Murray, who is currently in California for the Indian Wells tournament, revealed in a video posted by ATP's Twitter handel, that an 'idiotic' decision to dry his sweaty shoes led to them being stolen. The three-time Grand Slam winner said that he left his tennis shoes underneath his car to dry out overnight in front of the hotel room, but they had vanished when he returned in the morning. ALSO READ | If Pakistan beat India in T20 World Cup, PCB to get blank cheque: Ramiz Raja reveals investor's BIG claim Murray, who married Kim Sears in 2015, has played with his wedding ring attached to one of his laces as he can't play while wearing it in his finger. That's exactly happened when he took part in a practice session ahead of his opener in the Indian Wells tournament against Frenchman Adrian Mannarino. He said that when his physio asked about his wedding band, then he realised he had left the ring tied to his footwear. Watch the video here: 🎾 @andy_murray needs your help! His tennis shoes have been stolen and, attached to them, is his wedding ring. Oops.pic.twitter.com/4bBDDlels6 — The Sportsman (@TheSportsman) October 7, 2021 × "Last night after dinner in Indian Wells, I got back in the car to go back to the hotel and it didn't smell great. I'd left my tennis shoes in there ... it's been like 38-39 degrees so the shoes are damp, sweaty and smelly," Murray said in the video. Murray said he left his shoes underneath the car to avoid the "stink" in his room but when he got back to the car in the morning they were gone. "I decided when I got back to the hotel that the shoes needed some air, I needed to dry them out a bit ... I have no balcony in my room and didn't want to leave them in my room to stink the room out. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Man of many talents! Rohit Sharma imitates MI legends, shares video on Instagram - WATCH "So I thought I'm going to leave the shoes under the car ... overnight. When I got back to the car in the morning the shoes were gone. I had to go to a local pro shop to buy different shoes to what I normally wear ... which isn't the end of the world but not ideal. "I was preparing for my practice when my physio said to me 'where's your wedding ring?' And I was like 'oh no' .... So yeah, my ring has been stolen as well. Needless to say I'm in the bad books at home so I want to try and find it."

Watch: Andy Murray's plea over 'stolen' wedding ring sums up the plight of every married man

Inordinately long toilets breaks or medical timeouts at critical moments could soon be a thing of the past in men's tennis with the ATP Tour planning to impose stricter rules, a source at the men's governing body told Reuters.

The practice has long been a bugbear of players, most recently at the US&nbsp;Open where Stefanos Tsitsipas was accused of gamesmanship by Andy Murray for taking a lengthy trip to the bathroom at a critical point in their first-round match.

The Greek world number three, who won the match, denied the charge and said he had broken no rules as there were no time limits on bathroom breaks.

"There will be a change to the rules for bathroom breaks and on-court medical timeouts as well," an ATP source told Reuters.

"I hope that before the next season begins in January, we will have a stricter rule when it comes to toilet breaks and medical timeouts."

Murray was furious with Tsitsipas after the Greek's break ran close to eight minutes, with the Briton saying the disruption had an impact on the outcome of the match.

In his next match, Tsitsipas left for the locker room for more than seven minutes after losing the third set, and was jeered by the Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd on his return.

"I think it's getting to the point where it's definitely becoming a big issue," the source added. "It's been an issue for a long time but we are taking quite a serious approach now to try and change it."

Former US&nbsp;Open champion Sloane Stephens, who sits on the WTA players council, said players who took extended bathroom breaks were guilty of gamesmanship and called for governing bodies to change rules.

An ATP spokesperson said during the tournament that a review of rules around toilet breaks, as well as medical time outs, had been an area of focus and remained a work in progress.

The WTA said that it was "always open to conversation and evolving rules if changes are necessary".

Alexander Zverev, who objected to Tsitsipas leaving the court during their Cincinnati semi-final last month, said the Greek's behaviour at Flushing Meadows was "unacceptable".

However, Tsitsipas found support from world number one Novak Djokovic.

"I've got to stand for Stefanos Tsitsipas," Djokovic said at the US&nbsp;Open. "I don't think he's doing anything wrong. I support him.

"The rule is not clear. Of course you can argue it's all relative, everyone sees it differently.

"This was a hot topic last couple of weeks. I think he didn't deserve that much attacks that he was getting in the media from everyone."

Inordinately long toilets breaks or medical timeouts at critical moments could soon be a thing of the past in men's tennis with the ATP Tour planning to impose stricter rules, a source at the men's governing body told Reuters.

Inordinately long toilets breaks or medical timeouts at critical moments could soon be a thing of the past in men's tennis with the ATP Tour planning to impose stricter rules, a source at the men's governing body told Reuters. The practice has long been a bugbear of players, most recently at the US Open where Stefanos Tsitsipas was accused of gamesmanship by Andy Murray for taking a lengthy trip to the bathroom at a critical point in their first-round match. The Greek world number three, who won the match, denied the charge and said he had broken no rules as there were no time limits on bathroom breaks. "There will be a change to the rules for bathroom breaks and on-court medical timeouts as well," an ATP source told Reuters. "I hope that before the next season begins in January, we will have a stricter rule when it comes to toilet breaks and medical timeouts." Murray was furious with Tsitsipas after the Greek's break ran close to eight minutes, with the Briton saying the disruption had an impact on the outcome of the match. In his next match, Tsitsipas left for the locker room for more than seven minutes after losing the third set, and was jeered by the Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd on his return. "I think it's getting to the point where it's definitely becoming a big issue," the source added. "It's been an issue for a long time but we are taking quite a serious approach now to try and change it." Former US Open champion Sloane Stephens, who sits on the WTA players council, said players who took extended bathroom breaks were guilty of gamesmanship and called for governing bodies to change rules. An ATP spokesperson said during the tournament that a review of rules around toilet breaks, as well as medical time outs, had been an area of focus and remained a work in progress. The WTA said that it was "always open to conversation and evolving rules if changes are necessary". Alexander Zverev, who objected to Tsitsipas leaving the court during their Cincinnati semi-final last month, said the Greek's behaviour at Flushing Meadows was "unacceptable". However, Tsitsipas found support from world number one Novak Djokovic. "I've got to stand for Stefanos Tsitsipas," Djokovic said at the US Open. "I don't think he's doing anything wrong. I support him. "The rule is not clear. Of course you can argue it's all relative, everyone sees it differently. "This was a hot topic last couple of weeks. I think he didn't deserve that much attacks that he was getting in the media from everyone."

Lengthy toilet breaks may soon be thing of the past

Tennis ace Roger Federer has opened up over speculations and the expected timing of his return to the courts. Since Federer withdrew from the ATP Toronto and Cincinnati Masters due to fitness concerns, there have been talks over his participation in the US Open.&nbsp;

The 20-time Grand Slam champion had reached the Wimbledon quarter-finals this year but had also pulled out from the Tokyo Olympics due to a knee injury.&nbsp;

"I'm fine. I was on holiday. I haven't done anything for a while because of my knee. I had to stop everything after Wimbledon," Federer told Blick newspaper while addressing his return.&nbsp;

"This week, I have to meet my doctors and my team, and then we will see what happens next. For now, everything is still a bit uncertain."

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The 40-year-old Federer, who has only played 13 matches in 2021, said he was learning to adjust to the fact that recovering from niggles takes two weeks rather than two days.&nbsp;

The US Open gets underway on August 30 but Federer, whose last Slam title came at the 2018 Australian Open, did not say whether he would be taking part in the last of the year's four majors.

"It was different before. The questions were simple: what is my place in the ranking? What will my next tournament be?", he said.

"Today, it's more difficult: how do I feel when I start training again? What are my goals? How to reconcile all this with the family? What does the rest of the team say?

"I am much more enthusiastic than before, the attitude is different. It's really completely different from 10 years ago."&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

Tennis ace Roger Federer has opened up over speculations and the expected timing of his return to the courts. Since Federer withdrew from the ATP Toronto and Cincinnati Masters due to fitness concerns, there have been talks over his participation in the US Open.

Tennis ace Roger Federer has opened up over speculations and the expected timing of his return to the courts. Since Federer withdrew from the ATP Toronto and Cincinnati Masters due to fitness concerns, there have been talks over his participation in the US Open. The 20-time Grand Slam champion had reached the Wimbledon quarter-finals this year but had also pulled out from the Tokyo Olympics due to a knee injury. "I'm fine. I was on holiday. I haven't done anything for a while because of my knee. I had to stop everything after Wimbledon," Federer told Blick newspaper while addressing his return. "This week, I have to meet my doctors and my team, and then we will see what happens next. For now, everything is still a bit uncertain." ALSO READ | Tennis: Stefanos Tsitsipas making noise in Toronto with Big Three absent The 40-year-old Federer, who has only played 13 matches in 2021, said he was learning to adjust to the fact that recovering from niggles takes two weeks rather than two days. The US Open gets underway on August 30 but Federer, whose last Slam title came at the 2018 Australian Open, did not say whether he would be taking part in the last of the year's four majors. "It was different before. The questions were simple: what is my place in the ranking? What will my next tournament be?", he said. "Today, it's more difficult: how do I feel when I start training again? What are my goals? How to reconcile all this with the family? What does the rest of the team say? "I am much more enthusiastic than before, the attitude is different. It's really completely different from 10 years ago." (with inputs from agencies)

Tennis ace Roger Federer says return date 'still a bit uncertain'

Stefanos Tsitsipas said on Sunday coaching during matches still takes place on the ATP Tour and that rules in place banning such instruction need to be changed. 
 
Tsitsipas, speaking in Toronto where he is the third seed for the Masters 1000 hardcourt event, feels there needs to be a way to allow communication between coaches and players that is not overly intrusive to the flow of a match. 
 
"Some referees have been catching the coaches that have been coaching, some others haven't," said Tsitsipas. "It has been there all these years, it's never going to change, it's not going to stop. 
 
"My opinion on that is that coaching should be allowed, there should be certain regulations and certain ways to enhance it into players performance without it becoming too much." 
 
The issue of players receiving instruction during matches came to the forefront at the 2018 U.S. Open final when Serena Williams was warned by the chair umpire after her coach gestured from the stands during the showdown against Naomi Osaka. 
 
The penalty infuriated Williams and she was later docked a point and a game for further code violations before falling in straight sets. 
 
In 2020, the WTA decided existing rules were difficult to regulate and so decided to allow, on a trial basis, coaching from the stands. 
 
While such moves may upset traditionalists, Tsitsipas feels the game needs to evolve. 
 
"What's the point of having a coach with you if you can't get the whole benefit out of it," said Tsitsipas. 
 
"I know tennis is a sport where you get to make the decisions and you can decide for yourself, but sometimes an eye from the outside it can always help and maybe change certain outcomes of matches." 
&nbsp;

Stefanos Tsitsipas said on Sunday coaching during matches still takes place on the ATP Tour and that rules in place banning such instruction need to be changed. Tsitsipas, speaking in Toronto where he is the third seed for the Masters 1000 hardcourt event, feels there needs to be a way to allow communication between coaches and players that is not overly intrusive to the flow of a match.

Stefanos Tsitsipas said on Sunday coaching during matches still takes place on the ATP Tour and that rules in place banning such instruction need to be changed. Tsitsipas, speaking in Toronto where he is the third seed for the Masters 1000 hardcourt event, feels there needs to be a way to allow communication between coaches and players that is not overly intrusive to the flow of a match. "Some referees have been catching the coaches that have been coaching, some others haven't," said Tsitsipas. "It has been there all these years, it's never going to change, it's not going to stop. "My opinion on that is that coaching should be allowed, there should be certain regulations and certain ways to enhance it into players performance without it becoming too much." The issue of players receiving instruction during matches came to the forefront at the 2018 U.S. Open final when Serena Williams was warned by the chair umpire after her coach gestured from the stands during the showdown against Naomi Osaka. The penalty infuriated Williams and she was later docked a point and a game for further code violations before falling in straight sets. In 2020, the WTA decided existing rules were difficult to regulate and so decided to allow, on a trial basis, coaching from the stands. While such moves may upset traditionalists, Tsitsipas feels the game needs to evolve. "What's the point of having a coach with you if you can't get the whole benefit out of it," said Tsitsipas. "I know tennis is a sport where you get to make the decisions and you can decide for yourself, but sometimes an eye from the outside it can always help and maybe change certain outcomes of matches."

Tennis: Stefanos Tsitsipas calls for coaching to be allowed during matches

French Open champion Iga Swiatek said securing a spot in the top 10 of the world rankings was evidence her game had become more consistent after the Pole struggled with some 'frustrating'&nbsp;results following her maiden Grand Slam triumph last year.

Swiatek, who turns 20 at the end of the month, demolished former world number one Karolina Pliskova 6-0 6-0 on Sunday in Rome to win her first WTA 1000 title and climbed six spots to number nine in the world on Monday.

"It is pretty crazy and I'm really proud of myself that I'm actually starting to be more consistent because that was my goal from the beginning," Swiatek told reporters.

"Actually, I feel right now that I am doing huge progress in that matter."

Swiatek went from being a largely unknown teenager to acquiring celebrity status in October when she became Poland's first Grand Slam singles champion and the youngest woman to win the title since Monica Seles in 1992.

Following her, Roland Garros win she skipped the rest of the 2020 season, and the Adelaide International had been her only title this year before Sunday.

She lost in the fourth round of 2021 Australian Open and also made early exits at the WTA 1000 events in Miami and Madrid.

"It was actually a bit frustrating after French Open because sometimes you can't see the result of your work," said Swiatek, who last week called herself a "perfectionist".

"Obviously winning a Grand Slam is great, but after that comes rankings, and this year it was different.

"So I'm really proud that I'm going to have in my resume that I'm top 10 because I always wanted that. I also want to be consistent. So right now our goal is to keep me in that place and go further."

French Open champion Iga Swiatek said securing a spot in the top 10 of the world rankings was evidence her game had become more consistent after the Pole struggled with some 'frustrating' results following her maiden Grand Slam triumph last year.

French Open champion Iga Swiatek said securing a spot in the top 10 of the world rankings was evidence her game had become more consistent after the Pole struggled with some 'frustrating' results following her maiden Grand Slam triumph last year. Swiatek, who turns 20 at the end of the month, demolished former world number one Karolina Pliskova 6-0 6-0 on Sunday in Rome to win her first WTA 1000 title and climbed six spots to number nine in the world on Monday. "It is pretty crazy and I'm really proud of myself that I'm actually starting to be more consistent because that was my goal from the beginning," Swiatek told reporters. "Actually, I feel right now that I am doing huge progress in that matter." Swiatek went from being a largely unknown teenager to acquiring celebrity status in October when she became Poland's first Grand Slam singles champion and the youngest woman to win the title since Monica Seles in 1992. Following her, Roland Garros win she skipped the rest of the 2020 season, and the Adelaide International had been her only title this year before Sunday. She lost in the fourth round of 2021 Australian Open and also made early exits at the WTA 1000 events in Miami and Madrid. "It was actually a bit frustrating after French Open because sometimes you can't see the result of your work," said Swiatek, who last week called herself a "perfectionist". "Obviously winning a Grand Slam is great, but after that comes rankings, and this year it was different. "So I'm really proud that I'm going to have in my resume that I'm top 10 because I always wanted that. I also want to be consistent. So right now our goal is to keep me in that place and go further."

Tennis: Iga Swiatek adds top-10 ranking to her resume

Andy Murray has decided to miss the French Open as he continues to recover from a groin injury and he will focus on the grasscourt swing instead, British media reported on Saturday.

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He&nbsp;won't contend at Roland Garros this year in the wake of experiencing some inconvenience during the ATP Masters 1000 occasion in Rome and will rather endeavour to get back to singles during the impending grass season and Wimbledon.

The former world number one has not played a singles match since March when he pulled out of the Miami Open due to a groin injury. He made a comeback in Rome at the Italian Open but only played in the doubles competition where he was knocked out in the last 16.

Murray ranked 123rd in the world after long layoffs due to hip injuries was set to enter the qualifying rounds for the French Open as he waited for organizers to decide on whether he would receive a wildcard.

The 34-year-old Scot, a three-time Grand Slam champion, was expected to make his singles comeback at claycourt tournaments in either Geneva or Lyon next week but his name was not on the list of wildcards.&nbsp;Five months into the season, Murray has competed in singles at only two ATP tournaments and he has admitted to his morale faltering after so many days in rehab at home. It seems imperative that he is ready to compete in three weeks.

The grasscourt swing begins next month.

Wimbledon, a tournament Murray has won twice, begins on June 28.

Andy Murray has decided to miss the French Open as he continues to recover from a groin injury and he will focus on the grasscourt swing instead, British media reported on Saturday.

Andy Murray has decided to miss the French Open as he continues to recover from a groin injury and he will focus on the grasscourt swing instead, British media reported on Saturday. ALSO READ: 'What dreams are made of': Schmeichel hails Leicester history makers He won't contend at Roland Garros this year in the wake of experiencing some inconvenience during the ATP Masters 1000 occasion in Rome and will rather endeavour to get back to singles during the impending grass season and Wimbledon. The former world number one has not played a singles match since March when he pulled out of the Miami Open due to a groin injury. He made a comeback in Rome at the Italian Open but only played in the doubles competition where he was knocked out in the last 16. Murray ranked 123rd in the world after long layoffs due to hip injuries was set to enter the qualifying rounds for the French Open as he waited for organizers to decide on whether he would receive a wildcard. The 34-year-old Scot, a three-time Grand Slam champion, was expected to make his singles comeback at claycourt tournaments in either Geneva or Lyon next week but his name was not on the list of wildcards. Five months into the season, Murray has competed in singles at only two ATP tournaments and he has admitted to his morale faltering after so many days in rehab at home. It seems imperative that he is ready to compete in three weeks. The grasscourt swing begins next month. Wimbledon, a tournament Murray has won twice, begins on June 28.

Andy Murray to skip French Open and prepare for grass court season

Roger Federer is a legend for the world, but for the people of his country, the tennis ace's status is even higher than that.To celebrate the tennis great's achievements, Federer's home country, Switzerland, is pondering postponing the National Day by a week&nbsp;to August 8, 2021,&nbsp;&nbsp;the day Federer turns 40. And, the people taking the lead are the Swiss parliamentarians.

The nation is keen to honour the legend and former world No. 1 by giving a gift, which no country in the world would have given its sporting hero. It all started in the Swiss Parliament where several lawmakers launched an initiative on social media to honour Federer in its own unique way. Soon, the move gained momentum among his legion of fans and very soon it became the talking point of the nation of more than eight million. 
 
This is not the first time the European country is planning to shower affection and gratitude on the tennis great. Switzerland made a grand gesture in Federer's honour when he became the first living person to receive a Swiss stamp after the 2007 Wimbledon triumph. And in 2020, when the world was reeling under the Covid-19 pandemic, Federer received his own 20-franc silver coin from Swissmint. 
 
Now the 39-year-old player in the twilight of his career, Federer's achievement might again be recognised one more time with the National Day being postponed by a week. While the founding of the Swiss Confederacy is celebrated on August 1, this year it could be moved to August 8, to coincide with the eight-time Wimbledon champion's birthday. 
 
Even as the move gains momentum, Federer, currently world No. 6 on ATP, is busy charting his return to ATP Tour action after a knee surgery. And, then he also plans to take a shot at Olympic glory in Tokyo.

Roger Federer is a legend for the world, but for the people of his country, the tennis ace's status is even higher than that.To celebrate the tennis great's achievements, Federer's home country, Switzerland, is pondering postponing the National Day by a week to August 8, 2021, the day Federer turns 40.

Roger Federer is a legend for the world, but for the people of his country, the tennis ace's status is even higher than that.To celebrate the tennis great's achievements, Federer's home country, Switzerland, is pondering postponing the National Day by a week to August 8, 2021, the day Federer turns 40. And, the people taking the lead are the Swiss parliamentarians. The nation is keen to honour the legend and former world No. 1 by giving a gift, which no country in the world would have given its sporting hero. It all started in the Swiss Parliament where several lawmakers launched an initiative on social media to honour Federer in its own unique way. Soon, the move gained momentum among his legion of fans and very soon it became the talking point of the nation of more than eight million. This is not the first time the European country is planning to shower affection and gratitude on the tennis great. Switzerland made a grand gesture in Federer's honour when he became the first living person to receive a Swiss stamp after the 2007 Wimbledon triumph. And in 2020, when the world was reeling under the Covid-19 pandemic, Federer received his own 20-franc silver coin from Swissmint. Now the 39-year-old player in the twilight of his career, Federer's achievement might again be recognised one more time with the National Day being postponed by a week. While the founding of the Swiss Confederacy is celebrated on August 1, this year it could be moved to August 8, to coincide with the eight-time Wimbledon champion's birthday. Even as the move gains momentum, Federer, currently world No. 6 on ATP, is busy charting his return to ATP Tour action after a knee surgery. And, then he also plans to take a shot at Olympic glory in Tokyo.

Switzerland could shift its national day to Roger Federer's birthday

Winners of ATP’s top awards for 2020 were announced and Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, Tiafoe were among the players named.&nbsp;

Serbian ace Djokovic had a prolific 2020 season and ended No. 1 for a record-equaling sixth time after winning four titles including a record eighth Australian Open.

US Open winners Mate Pavic and Bruno Soares are the doubles No. 1s.

Swiss tennis player Roger Federer played only six singles all year, was the singles fans’ favourite for a record-extending 18th straight year.&nbsp;

Spaniard Nadal won the Stefan Edberg Sportsmanship Award for the third year straight and fourth time overall after winning a 13th Roland Garros crown.&nbsp;

Russia's Andrey Rublev was the most improved in rising after witnessing a jump from rank 23 to career-best 8 after winning five titles, more than anyone else on the tour.

Newcomer of the year went to 17-year-old Carlos Alcaraz, who won three Challengers.

Vasek Pospisil is the comeback player of the year after undergoing back surgery in 2019. The Canadian reached two finals and rose to No. 61 after dropping to No. 150 in 2019.

Tiafoe was given the Arthur Ashe Humanitarian Award for his social activity. The American auctioned signed memorabilia to Athletes for COVID-19 Relief and posted a video that united the Black tennis community in the wake of George Floyd’s killing.&nbsp;

Winners of ATP’s top awards for 2020 were announced and Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, Tiafoe were among the players named. Serbian ace Djokovic had a prolific 2020 season and ended No.

Winners of ATP’s top awards for 2020 were announced and Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, Tiafoe were among the players named. Serbian ace Djokovic had a prolific 2020 season and ended No. 1 for a record-equaling sixth time after winning four titles including a record eighth Australian Open. US Open winners Mate Pavic and Bruno Soares are the doubles No. 1s. Swiss tennis player Roger Federer played only six singles all year, was the singles fans’ favourite for a record-extending 18th straight year. Spaniard Nadal won the Stefan Edberg Sportsmanship Award for the third year straight and fourth time overall after winning a 13th Roland Garros crown. Russia's Andrey Rublev was the most improved in rising after witnessing a jump from rank 23 to career-best 8 after winning five titles, more than anyone else on the tour. Newcomer of the year went to 17-year-old Carlos Alcaraz, who won three Challengers. Vasek Pospisil is the comeback player of the year after undergoing back surgery in 2019. The Canadian reached two finals and rose to No. 61 after dropping to No. 150 in 2019. Tiafoe was given the Arthur Ashe Humanitarian Award for his social activity. The American auctioned signed memorabilia to Athletes for COVID-19 Relief and posted a video that united the Black tennis community in the wake of George Floyd’s killing.

Djokovic, Nadal, Federer: Winners of ATP awards for 2020

ATP Tour on Thursday released an update of its calendar for 2021 revising the first seven weeks of the season and announced that the Australian Open will kick-off on February 8, three weeks later than scheduled.

The main draw of the Australian Open was originally about to commence on January 18, however, the organisers of Tennis Australia have been in drawn-out negotiations with local government over Covid-19 health measures.

Tennis Australia was not immediately available for comment.&nbsp;

According to ATP release, men’s qualifying for the Australian Open would take place in Doha from January 10-13 before players relocated to Melbourne to enter quarantine.

The ATP tournament that was supposed to be held in Adelaide but has been moved to Melbourne to be played in the week commencing January 31 alongisde another men’s tournament in the city.

A shortened version of the ATP Cup men’s team tournament will take place in Melbourne from February 1-5 before the Grand Slam begins on the following Monday.

The Tennis season will kickoff with tournaments in Delray Beach, Florida and Antalya in Turkey before preparations for Melbourne Park begin.

ATP Tour on Thursday released an update of its calendar for 2021 revising the first seven weeks of the season and announced that the Australian Open will kick-off on February 8, three weeks later than scheduled.

ATP Tour on Thursday released an update of its calendar for 2021 revising the first seven weeks of the season and announced that the Australian Open will kick-off on February 8, three weeks later than scheduled. The main draw of the Australian Open was originally about to commence on January 18, however, the organisers of Tennis Australia have been in drawn-out negotiations with local government over Covid-19 health measures. Tennis Australia was not immediately available for comment. According to ATP release, men’s qualifying for the Australian Open would take place in Doha from January 10-13 before players relocated to Melbourne to enter quarantine. The ATP tournament that was supposed to be held in Adelaide but has been moved to Melbourne to be played in the week commencing January 31 alongisde another men’s tournament in the city. A shortened version of the ATP Cup men’s team tournament will take place in Melbourne from February 1-5 before the Grand Slam begins on the following Monday. The Tennis season will kickoff with tournaments in Delray Beach, Florida and Antalya in Turkey before preparations for Melbourne Park begin.

Australian Open to commence on February 8: ATP

Rafael Nadal's dream of winning the ATP Finals title ended as the Spanish ace was beaten by Russia's Daniil Medvedev 3-6 7-6(4) 6-3 in a thrilling semi-final clash on Saturday.

Rafael Nadal's dream of winning the ATP Finals title ended as the Spanish ace was beaten by Russia's Daniil Medvedev 3-6 7-6(4) 6-3 in a thrilling semi-final clash on Saturday. Also read: Novak Djokovic reaches ATP Finals semis, Rafael Nadal showdown still on This is Medvedev's first career win against 20 time Grand Slam-winner Nadal. The Russian will now face Austrian Dominic Theim who defeated world no. 1 Djokovic. Medvedev enters the finals as the favourite because he is the only player to maintain a 100 per cent win record in his group. The Russian also defeated Djokovic. Medvedev was off to a good start but Nadal came from behind to win the opening set. However, The Russian was too good for the Spaniard. In the second set, Nadal tried to swing his way back to the match but the Russian managed to break to love. A flukey forehand winner helped Medvedev move 5-3 ahead in the tiebreaker and he took full advantage to set up a decider. Nadal appeared to be feeling the pace in a tense final set and some sensational winners allowed Medvedev to grab the crucial break of serve in the seventh game. Two games later Nadal dumped a backhand in the net to hand Medvedev a landmark victory. (Inputs from Reuters)

ATP Finals: Daniil Medvedev beats Rafael Nadal in a thrilling semi-finals clash

London's farewell edition of the ATP Finals could still have its dream climax after world number one Novak Djokovic beat Alexander Zverev 6-3 7-6(4) to seal a last-four spot on Friday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-heading-premier-league-managers-want-headers-to-be-curbed-if-it-leads-to-dementia-344394" hreflang="en">No heading! Premier League managers want headers to be curbed if it leads to dementia</a>

Defeat by Russian Daniil Medvedev had left the five-time champion needing to beat Germany's Zverev to avoid a group stage exit and he obliged with a relatively comfortable win.

Djokovic will finish second in the Tokyo Group, named after the first edition of the season-ending tournament 50 years ago, and with Spanish world number two Rafa Nadal finishing second in the London Group, they have avoided a semi-final clash.

The 33-year-old Serb will face U.S. Open champion Dominic Thiem in Saturday's semi-final, when Nadal plays Medvedev.

Sunday's final will end the tournament's memorable 12-year stay in London before it re-locates to Turin.

Djokovic was pummelled 6-3 6-3 by an inspired Medvedev on Wednesday, but was much sharper against Zverev, another one of the new generation trying to barge the old guard off stage.

"In contrast to the match against Daniil I found the right shots at the right time," he said. "I have tremendous respect for Sascha, a great player and not easy to return 140mph first serves. It was anybody's game for most of the match."

Djokovic was soundly beaten by Zverev in the 2018 final, a match played out in an electrifying atmosphere in front of 18,000 fans. This time the arena was empty because of the COVID-19 lockdown, a surreal backdrop for a match with so much riding on it for both men.

Despite the flat feel, Djokovic was quickly into game-mode and when world number seven Zverev double-faulted to drop serve in his first service game he seized control.

Zverev dug in his heels in the second set but missed a chance for an early break before recovering from a couple of double faults to fend off a break point in the following game.

Djokovic looked edgy at times and twice had to hold serve to avoid being dragged into a third set.

But the 17-time Grand Slam champion raised the intensity level in the tiebreak, edging 5-3 ahead with a fizzing backhand pass. He brought up two match points with a hefty first serve before pressurising Zverev into an error to complete victory.

Djokovic is bidding to equal Roger Federer's record of six ATP Finals titles, while Nadal seeks a first.

Round-robin action concludes later on Friday with Medvedev looking to complete a sweep of the group by beating Argentine debutant Diego Schwartzman who cannot progress.

London's farewell edition of the ATP Finals could still have its dream climax after world number one Novak Djokovic beat Alexander Zverev 6-3 7-6(4) to seal a last-four spot on Friday.

London's farewell edition of the ATP Finals could still have its dream climax after world number one Novak Djokovic beat Alexander Zverev 6-3 7-6(4) to seal a last-four spot on Friday. Also read: No heading! Premier League managers want headers to be curbed if it leads to dementia Defeat by Russian Daniil Medvedev had left the five-time champion needing to beat Germany's Zverev to avoid a group stage exit and he obliged with a relatively comfortable win. Djokovic will finish second in the Tokyo Group, named after the first edition of the season-ending tournament 50 years ago, and with Spanish world number two Rafa Nadal finishing second in the London Group, they have avoided a semi-final clash. The 33-year-old Serb will face U.S. Open champion Dominic Thiem in Saturday's semi-final, when Nadal plays Medvedev. Sunday's final will end the tournament's memorable 12-year stay in London before it re-locates to Turin. Djokovic was pummelled 6-3 6-3 by an inspired Medvedev on Wednesday, but was much sharper against Zverev, another one of the new generation trying to barge the old guard off stage. "In contrast to the match against Daniil I found the right shots at the right time," he said. "I have tremendous respect for Sascha, a great player and not easy to return 140mph first serves. It was anybody's game for most of the match." Djokovic was soundly beaten by Zverev in the 2018 final, a match played out in an electrifying atmosphere in front of 18,000 fans. This time the arena was empty because of the COVID-19 lockdown, a surreal backdrop for a match with so much riding on it for both men. Despite the flat feel, Djokovic was quickly into game-mode and when world number seven Zverev double-faulted to drop serve in his first service game he seized control. Zverev dug in his heels in the second set but missed a chance for an early break before recovering from a couple of double faults to fend off a break point in the following game. Djokovic looked edgy at times and twice had to hold serve to avoid being dragged into a third set. But the 17-time Grand Slam champion raised the intensity level in the tiebreak, edging 5-3 ahead with a fizzing backhand pass. He brought up two match points with a hefty first serve before pressurising Zverev into an error to complete victory. Djokovic is bidding to equal Roger Federer's record of six ATP Finals titles, while Nadal seeks a first. Round-robin action concludes later on Friday with Medvedev looking to complete a sweep of the group by beating Argentine debutant Diego Schwartzman who cannot progress.

Novak Djokovic reaches ATP Finals semis, Rafael Nadal showdown still on

19-year-old Jannik Sinner has become the youngest player to win an ATP Tour title in more than 12 years after clinching Sofia Open title on Saturday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nadal-cruises-at-atp-finals-as-thiem-takes-revenge-against-tsitsipas-343415">Nadal cruises at ATP Finals as Thiem takes revenge against Tsitsipas</a>

The Italian ace defeated Vasek Pospisil of Canada 6-4, 3-6, 7-6 (3) in the summit clash to win his first ATP title. This was Pospisil's first attempt to win the ATP finals too.&nbsp;

"It is a great feeling ending the year with a tournament win," said Sinner as per the ATP Tour website. "Now I think the hard work is going to start once more… I hope I am going to start even better next year than I did this year," he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-reverts-after-novak-djokovic-replicates-iconic-siu-celebration-343479" hreflang="en">Cristiano Ronaldo reverts after Novak Djokovic replicates iconic 'Siu' celebration</a>

Japan's Kei Nishikori was the last player to have lifted a tour-level trophy at a younger age than Sinner. Nishikori won his maiden ATP Tour title as an 18-year-old at the 2008 Delray Beach Open.

With a win in Sofia, Jannik marks an end to a memorable 2020 campaign during which he claimed three top 10 wins and finished the year with a 19-11 record. He has entered the top 40 of the ATP rankings on Monday after earning rank no. 37.&nbsp;

19-year-old Jannik Sinner has become the youngest player to win an ATP Tour title in more than 12 years after clinching Sofia Open title on Saturday. Also read: Nadal cruises at ATP Finals as Thiem takes revenge against Tsitsipas The Italian ace defeated Vasek Pospisil of Canada 6-4, 3-6, 7-6 (3) in the summit clash to win his first ATP title.

19-year-old Jannik Sinner has become the youngest player to win an ATP Tour title in more than 12 years after clinching Sofia Open title on Saturday. Also read: Nadal cruises at ATP Finals as Thiem takes revenge against Tsitsipas The Italian ace defeated Vasek Pospisil of Canada 6-4, 3-6, 7-6 (3) in the summit clash to win his first ATP title. This was Pospisil's first attempt to win the ATP finals too. "It is a great feeling ending the year with a tournament win," said Sinner as per the ATP Tour website. "Now I think the hard work is going to start once more… I hope I am going to start even better next year than I did this year," he added. Also read: Cristiano Ronaldo reverts after Novak Djokovic replicates iconic 'Siu' celebration Japan's Kei Nishikori was the last player to have lifted a tour-level trophy at a younger age than Sinner. Nishikori won his maiden ATP Tour title as an 18-year-old at the 2008 Delray Beach Open. With a win in Sofia, Jannik marks an end to a memorable 2020 campaign during which he claimed three top 10 wins and finished the year with a 19-11 record. He has entered the top 40 of the ATP rankings on Monday after earning rank no. 37.

19-year-old Jannik Sinner becomes youngest in 12 years to clinch ATP title

World no. 1 Novak Djokovic is looking forward to winning the ATP Finals at London's O2 Arena for a record-equalling sixth time.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-recovered-dominic-thiem-starts-preparations-for-atp-finals-341919" hreflang="en">Tennis: Recovered Dominic Thiem starts preparations for ATP Finals</a>

The Serbian has had a successful 2020 season as he won Australian Open. He won 39 matches against just three losses this season. Novak also clinched his record-tying sixth year-end No. 1 finish in the ATP Rankings.

As long as the Nitto ATP Finals is concerned, Novak looks relaxed as he has won the event five times before. The win is one fewer than Roger Federer.&nbsp;

"Coming into the tournament knowing I already clinched the year-end No. 1 release some of the pressure definitely, but at the same time it doesn’t change what I hope to achieve in this tournament and why I’m here," Djokovic said at the tournament’s media day Friday. "I really want to win every single match that I get to play and try to get my hands on the trophy and I want this trophy as much as anyone here…

"I’m really hoping that I can end the season in the best possible way and the success that I had previously here in the past 10 years helps me feel more comfortable and confident about myself on the court."

Novak Djokovic will begin his campaign against Diego Schwartzman. "He never played on this court but that probably is kind of releasing him from any pressure that he has to do well," said Djokovic, 33. "Diego is in great form this year, it’s been the best season of his life, he deserves to be part of this tournament. I have lots of respect for him, he’s a fierce competitor [and] one of the quickest players on the Tour."

World no. 1 Novak Djokovic is looking forward to winning the ATP Finals at London's O2 Arena for a record-equalling sixth time. Also read: Tennis: Recovered Dominic Thiem starts preparations for ATP Finals The Serbian has had a successful 2020 season as he won Australian Open.

World no. 1 Novak Djokovic is looking forward to winning the ATP Finals at London's O2 Arena for a record-equalling sixth time. Also read: Tennis: Recovered Dominic Thiem starts preparations for ATP Finals The Serbian has had a successful 2020 season as he won Australian Open. He won 39 matches against just three losses this season. Novak also clinched his record-tying sixth year-end No. 1 finish in the ATP Rankings. As long as the Nitto ATP Finals is concerned, Novak looks relaxed as he has won the event five times before. The win is one fewer than Roger Federer. "Coming into the tournament knowing I already clinched the year-end No. 1 release some of the pressure definitely, but at the same time it doesn’t change what I hope to achieve in this tournament and why I’m here," Djokovic said at the tournament’s media day Friday. "I really want to win every single match that I get to play and try to get my hands on the trophy and I want this trophy as much as anyone here… "I’m really hoping that I can end the season in the best possible way and the success that I had previously here in the past 10 years helps me feel more comfortable and confident about myself on the court." Novak Djokovic will begin his campaign against Diego Schwartzman. "He never played on this court but that probably is kind of releasing him from any pressure that he has to do well," said Djokovic, 33. "Diego is in great form this year, it’s been the best season of his life, he deserves to be part of this tournament. I have lots of respect for him, he’s a fierce competitor [and] one of the quickest players on the Tour."

ATP FINALS: Novak Djokovic eyes record-equaling win to end year on high

Austrian Dominic Thiem said he has recovered from a foot injury he suffered during a tournament in Vienna and will travel to London this week to take part in the season-ending ATP Finals.

US&nbsp;Open champion Thiem struggled with blisters during the Vienna Open last month and his title defence at his home tournament ended when he lost in the quarter-finals.

The world number three subsequently pulled out of the Paris Masters to give himself time to recover for the ATP Finals, which is played between the top eight men's single players and doubles teams and will be held in London from Nov. 15-22.

"Nothing is quiet in fall – the last weeks have been busy," the 27-year-old said in a post on his website.

"After losing in the quarter-final at my home tournament in Vienna I recovered from my foot injury. It took me two, three days to recover, then I started my preparation for the final in London at the O2-Arena."

Thiem went down narrowly to Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas in the final of last year's tournament after defeating Alexander Zverev in the semi-finals and Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic in the group stages.

"On Wednesday I am leaving for London with a 'mini-team'. The final goal of 2020, the memories of last year are nice!" he said.

Last week, Thiem's home country reported record number of infections from the novel coronavirus. The capital Vienna witnessed a lone gunman kill four people in a rampage on Monday.

Thiem called the attack "very, very sad" and said his coach was close to the scene.

"It was a week with thousands of thoughts in my mind. My coach Nicolas Massu literally experienced the atrocious terror attack in Vienna, was close having dinner at a restaurant and was locked up until 2:30 at night," Thiem said.

Austrian Dominic Thiem said he has recovered from a foot injury he suffered during a tournament in Vienna and will travel to London this week to take part in the season-ending ATP Finals.

Austrian Dominic Thiem said he has recovered from a foot injury he suffered during a tournament in Vienna and will travel to London this week to take part in the season-ending ATP Finals. US Open champion Thiem struggled with blisters during the Vienna Open last month and his title defence at his home tournament ended when he lost in the quarter-finals. The world number three subsequently pulled out of the Paris Masters to give himself time to recover for the ATP Finals, which is played between the top eight men's single players and doubles teams and will be held in London from Nov. 15-22. "Nothing is quiet in fall – the last weeks have been busy," the 27-year-old said in a post on his website. "After losing in the quarter-final at my home tournament in Vienna I recovered from my foot injury. It took me two, three days to recover, then I started my preparation for the final in London at the O2-Arena." Thiem went down narrowly to Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas in the final of last year's tournament after defeating Alexander Zverev in the semi-finals and Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic in the group stages. "On Wednesday I am leaving for London with a 'mini-team'. The final goal of 2020, the memories of last year are nice!" he said. Last week, Thiem's home country reported record number of infections from the novel coronavirus. The capital Vienna witnessed a lone gunman kill four people in a rampage on Monday. Thiem called the attack "very, very sad" and said his coach was close to the scene. "It was a week with thousands of thoughts in my mind. My coach Nicolas Massu literally experienced the atrocious terror attack in Vienna, was close having dinner at a restaurant and was locked up until 2:30 at night," Thiem said.

Tennis: Recovered Dominic Thiem starts preparations for ATP Finals

Australian tennis ace Nick Kyrgios called the ATP "selfish" on Thursday for going ahead with plans for the US Open despite country's coronavirus situation and nation-wide anti-racism protests.&nbsp;

Kyrgios said that it is too early to begin the Grand Slam. The Aussie joined other players including Novak Djokovic for expressing disagreement on the move.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The ATP is trying to make the US Open go ahead. Selfish with everything going on at the moment. Obviously Covid, but also with the riots, together we need to overcome these challenges before tennis returns in my opinion. <a href="https://t.co/tEHPvr4miB">https://t.co/tEHPvr4miB</a>
— Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) <a href="https://twitter.com/NickKyrgios/status/1270963096022994944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"The ATP is trying to make the US Open go ahead. Selfish with everything going on at the moment," Kyrgios said on Twitter.&nbsp;

"Obviously Covid, but also with the riots. Together we need to overcome these challenges before tennis returns in my opinion."

"Obviously Covid, but also with the riots. Together we need to overcome these challenges before tennis returns in my opinion."

Earlier, Novak Djokovic said that he might skip his tour to North America and will restart his tennis season in Europe, he complained about "severe" measures being put in place at the US Open.&nbsp;

He said: "Most of the players I've talked to so far have a rather negative view of the possibility of going."

Spanish tennis ace and reigning US Open champion Rafa Nadal expressed similar feelings. Top-ranked woman Ashleigh Barty has also voiced caution about resuming tennis too soon.

Australian tennis ace Nick Kyrgios called the ATP "selfish" on Thursday for going ahead with plans for the US Open despite country's coronavirus situation and nation-wide anti-racism protests.

Australian tennis ace Nick Kyrgios called the ATP "selfish" on Thursday for going ahead with plans for the US Open despite country's coronavirus situation and nation-wide anti-racism protests. Kyrgios said that it is too early to begin the Grand Slam. The Aussie joined other players including Novak Djokovic for expressing disagreement on the move. The ATP is trying to make the US Open go ahead. Selfish with everything going on at the moment. Obviously Covid, but also with the riots, together we need to overcome these challenges before tennis returns in my opinion. https://t.co/tEHPvr4miB — Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) June 11, 2020 × "The ATP is trying to make the US Open go ahead. Selfish with everything going on at the moment," Kyrgios said on Twitter. "Obviously Covid, but also with the riots. Together we need to overcome these challenges before tennis returns in my opinion." "Obviously Covid, but also with the riots. Together we need to overcome these challenges before tennis returns in my opinion." Earlier, Novak Djokovic said that he might skip his tour to North America and will restart his tennis season in Europe, he complained about "severe" measures being put in place at the US Open. He said: "Most of the players I've talked to so far have a rather negative view of the possibility of going." Spanish tennis ace and reigning US Open champion Rafa Nadal expressed similar feelings. Top-ranked woman Ashleigh Barty has also voiced caution about resuming tennis too soon.

Nick Kyrgios calls ATP 'selfish' for going ahead with US Open

The Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) has paired up with Sporting Chance and Headspace to help players and its staff deal with mental health problems and health issues during the times of coronavirus.

The Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) has paired up with Sporting Chance and Headspace to help players and its staff deal with mental health problems and health issues during the times of coronavirus. This tennis season had come to halt since March due to the coronavirus pandemic and will be set to remain suspended till July. Due to the shutdown, players at the lower level have faced difficulties as they solely depended on tournament winnings of the chance to earn a living. The uncertainty over the resumption of the sport has left many players anxious. ATP chairman Andrea Gaudenzi released a statement on the website which read: "Being mentally strong is just as important as physical strength in tennis and looking after the mental health of our players and staff is a key priority for us." "Everyone has been adapting to periods of self-isolation and decreased physical activity during the pandemic, but this can have a particularly detrimental effect on professional athletes who are used to particular training structure and playing day in day out." Sporting Chance was founded by former England and Arsenal captain Tony Adams which helps with emotional welfare and addictive disorders, it also gives players access to therapists experienced in working with elite athletes. He said: "The challenges that all sports and sports professionals are experiencing in the light of this pandemic will be affecting all of us in different ways." "Holding out our hand to those in need at this time is important to me and working with organisations like the ATP is a pleasure – well done Tennis!" The other partner Headspace will provide free subscriptions to ATP players and employees, giving them access to all 1200+ hours of meditation and mindfulness content. (With inputs from agency)

Tennis: ATP pairs up with Sporting Chance and Headspace to help players with mental health

Swiss tennis ace Roger Federer on Wednesday took to Twitter to propose&nbsp;an idea for a merger of the men's and women's association.&nbsp;

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Just wondering…..am I the only one thinking that now is the time for men’s and women’s tennis to be united and come together as one?
— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer/status/1252922285096423424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The men's division in the game is headed by the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) whereas the women's division is headed by Women's Tennis Association (WTA).&nbsp;

The 20-time Grand Slam winner said that "probably should have happened."&nbsp;

Roger Federer posted a series of tweets elaborating&nbsp;his proposal&nbsp; as he&nbsp;said: "We can come out of this with two weakened bodies or one stronger body."

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It probably should have happened a long time ago, but maybe now is really the time. 
These are tough times in every sport and we can come out of this with 2 weakened bodies or 1 stronger body. <a href="https://t.co/30SbbAla5g">https://t.co/30SbbAla5g</a>
— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer/status/1252931040399839233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Federer added: "I am not talking about merging competition on the court but merging the two governing bodies that oversee the men's and women's professional tours."

"It's too confusing for the fans when there are different ranking systems, different logos, different websites, different tournament categories."

The American tennis legend Billie Jean King was one of the first to voice his support to Federer's idea, he said: "The WTA on its own was always Plan B. I'm glad we are on the same page. Let's make it happen."

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I agree, and have been saying so since the early 1970s. One voice, women and men together, has long been my vision for tennis. 
 
The WTA on its own was always Plan B. 
 
I’m glad we are on the same page. 
 
Let’s make it happen. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OneVoice?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OneVoice</a> <a href="https://t.co/FHbQHLiY6v">https://t.co/FHbQHLiY6v</a>
— Billie Jean King (@BillieJeanKing) <a href="https://twitter.com/BillieJeanKing/status/1252953431414919168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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King played a major role in the creation of WTA.&nbsp;

Federer's long-time on-pitch rival and 19-time Grand Slam winner Rafael Nadal too joined the movement. He said: "It would be great to get out of this world crisis with the union of men's and women's tennis in only one organisation."

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Hey <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> as you know per our discussions I completely agree that it would be great to get out of this world crisis with the union of men's and women's tennis in one only organisation 🎾👍🏻 <a href="https://t.co/fTCfvMiU4G">https://t.co/fTCfvMiU4G</a>
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal/status/1252957445342846978?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Many leading ladies in the game came forward to support Roger Federer's idea. These ladies included Simona Halep and Serena Williams.&nbsp;

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Just wondering…..am I the only one thinking that now is the time for men’s and women’s tennis to be united and come together as one?
— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer/status/1252922285096423424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Tennis has been on a halt since early March due to the on-going coronavirus pandemic. Players have been on a social media spree ever since and have shared various videos of them training or enjoying life with their loved ones.&nbsp;

Swiss tennis ace Roger Federer on Wednesday took to Twitter to propose an idea for a merger of the men's and women's association. Just wondering…..am I the only one thinking that now is the time for men’s and women’s tennis to be united and come together as one?

Swiss tennis ace Roger Federer on Wednesday took to Twitter to propose an idea for a merger of the men's and women's association. Just wondering…..am I the only one thinking that now is the time for men’s and women’s tennis to be united and come together as one? — Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) April 22, 2020 × The men's division in the game is headed by the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) whereas the women's division is headed by Women's Tennis Association (WTA). The 20-time Grand Slam winner said that "probably should have happened." Roger Federer posted a series of tweets elaborating his proposal as he said: "We can come out of this with two weakened bodies or one stronger body." It probably should have happened a long time ago, but maybe now is really the time. These are tough times in every sport and we can come out of this with 2 weakened bodies or 1 stronger body. https://t.co/30SbbAla5g — Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) April 22, 2020 × Federer added: "I am not talking about merging competition on the court but merging the two governing bodies that oversee the men's and women's professional tours." "It's too confusing for the fans when there are different ranking systems, different logos, different websites, different tournament categories." The American tennis legend Billie Jean King was one of the first to voice his support to Federer's idea, he said: "The WTA on its own was always Plan B. I'm glad we are on the same page. Let's make it happen." I agree, and have been saying so since the early 1970s. One voice, women and men together, has long been my vision for tennis. The WTA on its own was always Plan B. I’m glad we are on the same page. Let’s make it happen. #OneVoice https://t.co/FHbQHLiY6v — Billie Jean King (@BillieJeanKing) April 22, 2020 × King played a major role in the creation of WTA. Federer's long-time on-pitch rival and 19-time Grand Slam winner Rafael Nadal too joined the movement. He said: "It would be great to get out of this world crisis with the union of men's and women's tennis in only one organisation." Hey @rogerfederer as you know per our discussions I completely agree that it would be great to get out of this world crisis with the union of men's and women's tennis in one only organisation 🎾👍🏻 https://t.co/fTCfvMiU4G — Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) April 22, 2020 × Many leading ladies in the game came forward to support Roger Federer's idea. These ladies included Simona Halep and Serena Williams. Just wondering…..am I the only one thinking that now is the time for men’s and women’s tennis to be united and come together as one? — Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) April 22, 2020 × Tennis has been on a halt since early March due to the on-going coronavirus pandemic. Players have been on a social media spree ever since and have shared various videos of them training or enjoying life with their loved ones.

Roger Federer proposes 'merger' of tennis associations, support pours in

Due to the global coronavirus pandemic, all the sporting events have come to a halt. Tennis has been on a pause since early March due to the infectious virus. But the authorities have come down to a date when the sport could return and that date is July 13.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-ace-novak-djokovic-refuses-to-get-vaccinated-for-covid-19-to-return-to-game-293575">Tennis Ace Novak Djokovic refuses to get vaccinated for COVID-19 to return to game</a>

However, there are no guarantees regarding the date yet. The game could still be on a halt for the whole of 2020 if the vaccine is not available for the pandemic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kobe-university-professor-very-pessimistic-about-olympics-being-held-in-2021-293566" hreflang="en">Kobe University professor 'very pessimistic' about Olympics being held in 2021</a>

World No. 1 Novak Djokovic during a live session with Fabio Fognini on Instagram has said that the game could restart at the regional level with no rank points. He said: “I think there will be more regional prize money tournaments. I think this is what’s going to happen very soon.”

“I don’t know what’s going to happen with quarantine. Spain, Italy, and all the other countries in the world will probably have different models (to come out of it).”

“It will be difficult to start the tour because our tour is every week in different countries.

“So I think there will be regional prize money tournaments, but probably not (rankings) points at the moment because it’s very complicated,” Novak added.&nbsp;

The All England Club announced after an emergency meeting that the event it refers to simply as The Championships is being scrapped for 2020. Wimbledon was scheduled to be played on the club's grass courts on the outskirts of London from June 29 to July 12.

Djokovic made a flying start to the 2020 season, winning the Aussie Open in January for his 17th grand slam title and stretched his winning run to 18 matches before the pandemic brought sports events across the world to a halt.&nbsp;

Serbian tennis ace Novak Djokovic had earlier opposed if it becomes compulsory for players to get vaccinated before they can begin competing once the tennis season resumes following the pause due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Due to the global coronavirus pandemic, all the sporting events have come to a halt. Tennis has been on a pause since early March due to the infectious virus. But the authorities have come down to a date when the sport could return and that date is July 13.

Due to the global coronavirus pandemic, all the sporting events have come to a halt. Tennis has been on a pause since early March due to the infectious virus. But the authorities have come down to a date when the sport could return and that date is July 13. Also read: Tennis Ace Novak Djokovic refuses to get vaccinated for COVID-19 to return to game However, there are no guarantees regarding the date yet. The game could still be on a halt for the whole of 2020 if the vaccine is not available for the pandemic. Also read: Kobe University professor 'very pessimistic' about Olympics being held in 2021 World No. 1 Novak Djokovic during a live session with Fabio Fognini on Instagram has said that the game could restart at the regional level with no rank points. He said: “I think there will be more regional prize money tournaments. I think this is what’s going to happen very soon.” “I don’t know what’s going to happen with quarantine. Spain, Italy, and all the other countries in the world will probably have different models (to come out of it).” “It will be difficult to start the tour because our tour is every week in different countries. “So I think there will be regional prize money tournaments, but probably not (rankings) points at the moment because it’s very complicated,” Novak added. The All England Club announced after an emergency meeting that the event it refers to simply as The Championships is being scrapped for 2020. Wimbledon was scheduled to be played on the club's grass courts on the outskirts of London from June 29 to July 12. Djokovic made a flying start to the 2020 season, winning the Aussie Open in January for his 17th grand slam title and stretched his winning run to 18 matches before the pandemic brought sports events across the world to a halt. Serbian tennis ace Novak Djokovic had earlier opposed if it becomes compulsory for players to get vaccinated before they can begin competing once the tennis season resumes following the pause due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Tennis will resume on regional level with no ranking points, predicts Novak Djokovic

The ATP announced Thursday it was suspending the men's tennis tour for six weeks "due to escalating health and safety issues" arising from the coronavirus pandemic.

All events on the ATP Tour and second-tier ATP Challenger Tour are cancelled until April 27.

The announcement came shortly after the cancellation of the Miami Open, which followed the axing of Indian Wells and postponement of the Fed Cup finals.

"This is not a decision that was taken lightly," said ATP chairman Andrea Gaudenzi.&nbsp;

"However, we believe this is the responsible action needed at this time in order to protect the health and safety of our players, staff, the wider tennis community and general public health in the face of this global pandemic.

"The worldwide nature of our sport and the international travel required presents significant risks and challenges in today's circumstances, as do the increasingly restrictive directives issued by local authorities."

The virus, which has so far infected more than 127,000 people&nbsp;globally and killed over 4,600, according to an AFP tally, is wreaking havoc on global sport.

The ATP announced Thursday it was suspending the men's tennis tour for six weeks "due to escalating health and safety issues" arising from the coronavirus pandemic.

The ATP announced Thursday it was suspending the men's tennis tour for six weeks "due to escalating health and safety issues" arising from the coronavirus pandemic. All events on the ATP Tour and second-tier ATP Challenger Tour are cancelled until April 27. The announcement came shortly after the cancellation of the Miami Open, which followed the axing of Indian Wells and postponement of the Fed Cup finals. "This is not a decision that was taken lightly," said ATP chairman Andrea Gaudenzi. "However, we believe this is the responsible action needed at this time in order to protect the health and safety of our players, staff, the wider tennis community and general public health in the face of this global pandemic. "The worldwide nature of our sport and the international travel required presents significant risks and challenges in today's circumstances, as do the increasingly restrictive directives issued by local authorities." The virus, which has so far infected more than 127,000 people globally and killed over 4,600, according to an AFP tally, is wreaking havoc on global sport.

ATP suspends men's tour for six weeks over coronavirus

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../djokovic-sweeps-past-nadal-in-atp-cup-final- 273816">Djokovic</a>'s Serbia came from behind to defeat Nadal's Spain to lift the prestigious ATP cup in the Rosewell Arena, Sydney.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-novak-djokovic-concerned-about-smoke-at-australian-open-as-bushfires-continue-to-blaze-272187">ATP: Novak Djokovic concerned about smoke at Australian Open as bushfires continue to blaze</a>

Roberto Bautista handed a straight-set defeat to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../nadals-spain-to-meet-djokovics-serbia-in-atp- cup-final-273650">Dusan Lajovic</a> (7-5, 6-1) in the first match of the tie. Spain lead by 1-0 over Serbia.

Scores tied after Novak Djokovic returned the favour by defeating Rafael Nadal (6-2, 7-6) in the most anticipated match of the evening. &nbsp;

As a tie-breaker, the doubles team clashed with each other. Serbia's Djokovic and Victor Troicki faced Spain's Feliciano Lopez and Pablo Carreno-Busta. Team Serbia beat Team Spain in straight sets 6-3, 6-4 to win the cup.&nbsp;

The winning team got $15,000,000 as a cash prize.

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Welcome to the HISTORY books! 
 
Hoist that 🏆 high, 🇷🇸 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamSerbia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamSerbia</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATPCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ATPCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/f81tbbCQdL">pic.twitter.com/f81tbbCQdL</a>
— ATPCup (@ATPCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/ATPCup/status/1216368145096679425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Serbia defeated Russia and Spain defeated Australia 3-0 to reach the finals.&nbsp;

Spain neared a knockout in the Quarters against Belgium when World number 7 David Goffin had defeated World number 1. But they avoided an upset when they won the tie-breaker doubles match.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-belguims-david-goffin-keeps-hope-alive-after-shocker-against-spains-rafael-nadal-273449">ATP: Belguim's David Goffin keeps hope alive after shocker against Spain's Rafael Nadal</a>

24 countries took part in this competition that lasted 10 days. Fans across the three cities of Brisbane, Perth, and Sydney were entertained.&nbsp;

ATP had promised A$100 per ace in the tournament and a total of 1,322 aces were served in the cup. so a total of A$132,200 were donated to Tennis Australia’s Aces for Bushfire Relief initiative. Nick Kyrgios served most number (69) of aces in tournament. &nbsp;

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Drumroll, please! 🥁 
 
After 32 aces were hit on Day 10, our grand total for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATPCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ATPCup</a> is 1,322. This means $132,200 was raised for&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/RedCrossAU?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@redcrossau</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Aces4BushfireRelief?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Aces4BushfireRelief</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATPCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ATPCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/FMivFRWBUg">pic.twitter.com/FMivFRWBUg</a>
— ATPCup (@ATPCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/ATPCup/status/1216434671212539910?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ATP players donated A$725,000 to WWF’s Australian Wildlife and Nature Recovery Fund.

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A big <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATPCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ATPCup</a> announcement! ❤️<a href="https://twitter.com/atptour?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@atptour</a> players have made a $725,000 donation to <a href="https://twitter.com/WWF_Australia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WWF_Australia</a> and Nature Recovery Fund as part of the bushfire relief efforts. <a href="https://t.co/dkJGYLxyU6">pic.twitter.com/dkJGYLxyU6</a>
— ATPCup (@ATPCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/ATPCup/status/1216372120403529728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Djokovic's Serbia came from behind to defeat Nadal's Spain to lift the prestigious ATP cup in the Rosewell Arena, Sydney. Also read: ATP: Novak Djokovic concerned about smoke at Australian Open as bushfires continue to blaze Roberto Bautista handed a straight-set defeat to Dusan Lajovic (7-5, 6-1) in the first match of the tie.

Djokovic's Serbia came from behind to defeat Nadal's Spain to lift the prestigious ATP cup in the Rosewell Arena, Sydney. Also read: ATP: Novak Djokovic concerned about smoke at Australian Open as bushfires continue to blaze Roberto Bautista handed a straight-set defeat to Dusan Lajovic (7-5, 6-1) in the first match of the tie. Spain lead by 1-0 over Serbia. Scores tied after Novak Djokovic returned the favour by defeating Rafael Nadal (6-2, 7-6) in the most anticipated match of the evening. As a tie-breaker, the doubles team clashed with each other. Serbia's Djokovic and Victor Troicki faced Spain's Feliciano Lopez and Pablo Carreno-Busta. Team Serbia beat Team Spain in straight sets 6-3, 6-4 to win the cup. The winning team got $15,000,000 as a cash prize. Welcome to the HISTORY books! Hoist that 🏆 high, 🇷🇸 #TeamSerbia#ATPCup pic.twitter.com/f81tbbCQdL — ATPCup (@ATPCup) January 12, 2020 × Serbia defeated Russia and Spain defeated Australia 3-0 to reach the finals. Spain neared a knockout in the Quarters against Belgium when World number 7 David Goffin had defeated World number 1. But they avoided an upset when they won the tie-breaker doubles match. Also read: ATP: Belguim's David Goffin keeps hope alive after shocker against Spain's Rafael Nadal 24 countries took part in this competition that lasted 10 days. Fans across the three cities of Brisbane, Perth, and Sydney were entertained. ATP had promised A$100 per ace in the tournament and a total of 1,322 aces were served in the cup. so a total of A$132,200 were donated to Tennis Australia’s Aces for Bushfire Relief initiative. Nick Kyrgios served most number (69) of aces in tournament. Drumroll, please! 🥁 After 32 aces were hit on Day 10, our grand total for the #ATPCup is 1,322. This means $132,200 was raised for @redcrossau.#Aces4BushfireRelief | #ATPCup pic.twitter.com/FMivFRWBUg — ATPCup (@ATPCup) January 12, 2020 × ATP players donated A$725,000 to WWF’s Australian Wildlife and Nature Recovery Fund. A big #ATPCup announcement! ❤️@atptour players have made a $725,000 donation to @WWF_Australia and Nature Recovery Fund as part of the bushfire relief efforts. pic.twitter.com/dkJGYLxyU6 — ATPCup (@ATPCup) January 12, 2020 ×

ATP: Djokovic's Serbia beats Nadal's Spain to lift the cup

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../nadals-spain-to-meet-djokovics-serbia-in-atp- cup-final-273650">Novak Djokovic</a> swept past long-time rival Rafael Nadal in a battling display at the ATP Cup final Sunday to lay down a marker ahead of the Australian Open.

Also read:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-novak-djokovic-concerned-about-smoke-at-australian-open-as-bushfires-continue-to-blaze-272187">ATP: Novak Djokovic concerned about smoke at Australian Open as bushfires continue to blaze</a>

The Serbian world number two blasted the top-ranked Spaniard off court 6-2 in the first set before a much tighter 7-6 (7/4) second set.

It left the final of the inaugural team event finely poised at 1-1 after Spain's reliable Roberto Bautista Agut caned Dusan Lajovic 7-5, 6-1.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/djokovic-and-nadal-rally-for-merger-of-atp-cup-and-davis-cup-271915">Nadal</a> and Djokovic were both expected back on the court to play the decisive doubles rubber that will decide which country wins the 24-nation tournament.

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LOOK AT THE PASSION! 
 
🇷🇸 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamSerbia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamSerbia</a> take the opening set of the deciding doubles 6-3! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATPCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ATPCup</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DjokerNole</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/troicki_viktor?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@troicki_viktor</a><a href="https://t.co/kXjPgki8Un">pic.twitter.com/kXjPgki8Un</a>
— ATP Tour (@atptour) <a href="https://twitter.com/atptour/status/1216350866745131008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Every time I get to play Rafa we get to play a lot of exciting points. There were some incredible exchanges today," said Djokovic.

"I started off the match perfectly, everything worked. I'm just really glad I held my nerve in the end."

Djokovic, warming up for his bid to win an eighth Australian Open crown this month, went into the clash at Sydney's Ken Rosewall Arena leading their head-to-head 28-26.

But the statistics did not tell the full story.

The Serb had won nine of their past 12 contests and been dominant over the years on hard courts,&nbsp;including a comfortable win against Nadal in the Australian Open final last year.

He showed his intent immediately, breaking Nadal in the opening game when the Spaniard netted a backhand, and there was no let-up.

His driving groundstrokes and deft touches proved too much with Nadal's serve constantly under siege as Djokovic delivered a booming ace to wrap up the set.

Nadal lifted to another level in the second set and it was an intense affair, with Djokovic saving five break points in a crucial sixth game.

It went to a tiebreaker where a crunching backhand down the line from the Serb gave him the break he needed to complete the victory.

Novak Djokovic swept past long-time rival Rafael Nadal in a battling display at the ATP Cup final Sunday to lay down a marker ahead of the Australian Open. Also read: ATP: Novak Djokovic concerned about smoke at Australian Open as bushfires continue to blaze The Serbian world number two blasted the top-ranked Spaniard off court 6-2 in the first set before a much tighter 7-6 (7/4) second set.

Novak Djokovic swept past long-time rival Rafael Nadal in a battling display at the ATP Cup final Sunday to lay down a marker ahead of the Australian Open. Also read: ATP: Novak Djokovic concerned about smoke at Australian Open as bushfires continue to blaze The Serbian world number two blasted the top-ranked Spaniard off court 6-2 in the first set before a much tighter 7-6 (7/4) second set. It left the final of the inaugural team event finely poised at 1-1 after Spain's reliable Roberto Bautista Agut caned Dusan Lajovic 7-5, 6-1. Nadal and Djokovic were both expected back on the court to play the decisive doubles rubber that will decide which country wins the 24-nation tournament. LOOK AT THE PASSION! 🇷🇸 #TeamSerbia take the opening set of the deciding doubles 6-3! #ATPCup | @DjokerNole | @troicki_viktorpic.twitter.com/kXjPgki8Un — ATP Tour (@atptour) January 12, 2020 × "Every time I get to play Rafa we get to play a lot of exciting points. There were some incredible exchanges today," said Djokovic. "I started off the match perfectly, everything worked. I'm just really glad I held my nerve in the end." Djokovic, warming up for his bid to win an eighth Australian Open crown this month, went into the clash at Sydney's Ken Rosewall Arena leading their head-to-head 28-26. But the statistics did not tell the full story. The Serb had won nine of their past 12 contests and been dominant over the years on hard courts, including a comfortable win against Nadal in the Australian Open final last year. He showed his intent immediately, breaking Nadal in the opening game when the Spaniard netted a backhand, and there was no let-up. His driving groundstrokes and deft touches proved too much with Nadal's serve constantly under siege as Djokovic delivered a booming ace to wrap up the set. Nadal lifted to another level in the second set and it was an intense affair, with Djokovic saving five break points in a crucial sixth game. It went to a tiebreaker where a crunching backhand down the line from the Serb gave him the break he needed to complete the victory.

Djokovic sweeps past Nadal in ATP Cup final

American qualifier Jennifer Brady claimed the first top 10 wins of her career with an upset 6-4 7-6(4) straight-sets victory over world number one&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/djokovic-and-nadal-rally-for-merger-of-atp-cup-and-davis-cup-271915">Ash&nbsp;Barty</a> on Thursday to advance to the Brisbane International quarter-finals.

With the tournament moving into the Pat Rafter Arena at the Queensland Tennis Centre following the end of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-cup-kicks-off-with-shapovalov-win-271903">ATP Cup</a> group stage, Brady had to contend with not only the Australian top seed, who was given a bye to the last-16, but also a vociferous home crowd.

Barty, who had never dropped a set to Brady in two encounters last year, was unable to muster a single break point while the American needed only one break of serve in the opening set before sealing the result in the second set tiebreak.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/djokovic-and-nadal-rally-for-merger-of-atp-cup-and-davis-cup-271915">Djokovic and Nadal rally for merger of ATP Cup and Davis Cup</a>

"I'm very happy to get the win," Brady said in a post-match interview. "Ash&nbsp;is obviously a great player and a great person.

"It's a little bit surreal. I'm super stoked and I'm shaking a little bit, but I really played well today."
<img alt="Jenifer Brady" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9d1fe49f-651e-46b3-bced-708dab1f98b4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_39.jpg" />
Barty, who exited the tournament in the first round in 2018, struck more winners than Brady but the 16 unforced errors opened the door for her American opponent who wrapped up the match in 91 minutes.

Brady, who beat <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sharapova-to-return-next-month-as-brisbane-wildcard-271149">Maria Sharapova</a> in the first round after coming through three qualifiers, became the fourth American to qualify for the quarter-finals after Madison Keys, Alison Riske and Danielle Collins.

American qualifier Jennifer Brady claimed the first top 10 wins of her career with an upset 6-4 7-6(4) straight-sets victory over world number one Ash Barty on Thursday to advance to the Brisbane International quarter-finals.

American qualifier Jennifer Brady claimed the first top 10 wins of her career with an upset 6-4 7-6(4) straight-sets victory over world number one Ash Barty on Thursday to advance to the Brisbane International quarter-finals. With the tournament moving into the Pat Rafter Arena at the Queensland Tennis Centre following the end of the ATP Cup group stage, Brady had to contend with not only the Australian top seed, who was given a bye to the last-16, but also a vociferous home crowd. Barty, who had never dropped a set to Brady in two encounters last year, was unable to muster a single break point while the American needed only one break of serve in the opening set before sealing the result in the second set tiebreak. Also Read: Djokovic and Nadal rally for merger of ATP Cup and Davis Cup "I'm very happy to get the win," Brady said in a post-match interview. "Ash is obviously a great player and a great person. "It's a little bit surreal. I'm super stoked and I'm shaking a little bit, but I really played well today." Barty, who exited the tournament in the first round in 2018, struck more winners than Brady but the 16 unforced errors opened the door for her American opponent who wrapped up the match in 91 minutes. Brady, who beat Maria Sharapova in the first round after coming through three qualifiers, became the fourth American to qualify for the quarter-finals after Madison Keys, Alison Riske and Danielle Collins.

Tennis: Barty stunned by qualifier Brady in straight sets in Brisbane

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-novak-djokovic-concerned-about-smoke-at-australian-open-as-bushfires-continue-to-blaze-272187">Novak Djokovic</a> braved extreme humidity to beat tricky French opponent Gael Monfils 6-3 6-2 and later helped Serbia win the doubles as they progressed at the inaugural&nbsp;ATP&nbsp;Cup team event in Brisbane on Monday.

Spain's world number one <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-once-again-claims-no-1-spot-in-rankings-novak-djokovic-slips-259888">Rafa Nadal</a> was also in punishing mood ahead of this month's Australian Open as he dismantled Uruguay's Pablo Cuevas 6-2 6-1 in Perth to seal their tie.

Roberto Bautista Agut had given the Spaniards the lead after an equally one-sided 6-1 6-2 win over Franco Roncadelli in the $15 million&nbsp;ATP&nbsp;Cup, which features 24 nations competing in Perth, Brisbane and Sydney over 10 days.

Djokovic had a 15-0 head-to-head record against Monfils before Monday's clash and, after surviving an initial onslaught from his opponent, made sure the record remained blemish free.

The Serb saved nine break points while converting the three he had against Monfils, who finished 2019 in the top 10, to square the tie after the temperamental Benoit Paire had given France the lead by overcoming Dusan Lajovic 6-2 6-7(6) 6-4.

"It was definitely one of the most humid conditions I have ever had in my career," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-guides-serbia-into-davis-cup-quarter-finals-263723">Djokovic</a> said in a courtside interview. "I mean, tonight was brutal.

"Obviously playing Gael is never easy. You are coming into the court knowing that you are going to have a lot of exchanges, a lot of rallies. He is a great fighter and a great friend of mine, so I wish him all the best. Tough luck today."

Djokovic returned to court with Viktor Troicki to clinch the deciding doubles match against Nicolas Mahut and Edouard Roger-Vasselin 6-3 6-7(5) 10-3.

The 2-1 result ensured Serbia will finish as Group A winners and become the second team to qualify for the quarter-finals after Australia booked their place as Group F winners on Sunday.

Fit-again South African Kevin Anderson earlier won his first match since returning to competitive tennis with a 6-0 6-3 success against Chile's Cristian Garin.

Anderson, runner-up at the 2017 US&nbsp;Open and Wimbledon a year later, played only five tournaments last year due to injury before undergoing knee surgery in September.

The 33-year-old lost 7-6(5) 7-6(6) to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/djokovic-and-nadal-rally-for-merger-of-atp-cup-and-davis-cup-271915">Djokovic</a> in his return to action on Saturday, his first match since the third round of Wimbledon in July, but proved too good for Garin.

The former world number five did not face a break point against Garin, sealing the tie for South Africa.

Austria's world number four Dominic Thiem also bounced back from his season-opening loss against Croat Borna Coric by beating Diego Schwartzman 6-3 7-6(3) to help set up a 3-0 win over Argentina.

Croatia's Marin Cilic, the US&nbsp;Open champion in 2014, followed up Saturday's win against Austrian Dennis Novak with a 7-6(8) 6-4 win over 20-year-old Kacper Zuk of Poland.

Cilic converted only one of his 13 break points but the win in Sydney was enough to set up Croatia's second victory at the event after they defeated Austria 3-0.

Japan also completed their second win as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/andy-murray-leads-britain-to-opening-davis-cup-win-spain-reach-last-eight-263586">Yoshihito Nishioka</a> and Go Soeda emerged victorious in their singles matches to seal the tie against Georgia in Perth.

Novak Djokovic braved extreme humidity to beat tricky French opponent Gael Monfils 6-3 6-2 and later helped Serbia win the doubles as they progressed at the inaugural ATP Cup team event in Brisbane on Monday.

Novak Djokovic braved extreme humidity to beat tricky French opponent Gael Monfils 6-3 6-2 and later helped Serbia win the doubles as they progressed at the inaugural ATP Cup team event in Brisbane on Monday. Spain's world number one Rafa Nadal was also in punishing mood ahead of this month's Australian Open as he dismantled Uruguay's Pablo Cuevas 6-2 6-1 in Perth to seal their tie. Roberto Bautista Agut had given the Spaniards the lead after an equally one-sided 6-1 6-2 win over Franco Roncadelli in the $15 million ATP Cup, which features 24 nations competing in Perth, Brisbane and Sydney over 10 days. Djokovic had a 15-0 head-to-head record against Monfils before Monday's clash and, after surviving an initial onslaught from his opponent, made sure the record remained blemish free. The Serb saved nine break points while converting the three he had against Monfils, who finished 2019 in the top 10, to square the tie after the temperamental Benoit Paire had given France the lead by overcoming Dusan Lajovic 6-2 6-7(6) 6-4. "It was definitely one of the most humid conditions I have ever had in my career," Djokovic said in a courtside interview. "I mean, tonight was brutal. "Obviously playing Gael is never easy. You are coming into the court knowing that you are going to have a lot of exchanges, a lot of rallies. He is a great fighter and a great friend of mine, so I wish him all the best. Tough luck today." Djokovic returned to court with Viktor Troicki to clinch the deciding doubles match against Nicolas Mahut and Edouard Roger-Vasselin 6-3 6-7(5) 10-3. The 2-1 result ensured Serbia will finish as Group A winners and become the second team to qualify for the quarter-finals after Australia booked their place as Group F winners on Sunday. Fit-again South African Kevin Anderson earlier won his first match since returning to competitive tennis with a 6-0 6-3 success against Chile's Cristian Garin. Anderson, runner-up at the 2017 US Open and Wimbledon a year later, played only five tournaments last year due to injury before undergoing knee surgery in September. The 33-year-old lost 7-6(5) 7-6(6) to Djokovic in his return to action on Saturday, his first match since the third round of Wimbledon in July, but proved too good for Garin. The former world number five did not face a break point against Garin, sealing the tie for South Africa. Austria's world number four Dominic Thiem also bounced back from his season-opening loss against Croat Borna Coric by beating Diego Schwartzman 6-3 7-6(3) to help set up a 3-0 win over Argentina. Croatia's Marin Cilic, the US Open champion in 2014, followed up Saturday's win against Austrian Dennis Novak with a 7-6(8) 6-4 win over 20-year-old Kacper Zuk of Poland. Cilic converted only one of his 13 break points but the win in Sydney was enough to set up Croatia's second victory at the event after they defeated Austria 3-0. Japan also completed their second win as Yoshihito Nishioka and Go Soeda emerged victorious in their singles matches to seal the tie against Georgia in Perth.

Djokovic, Nadal march on with convincing wins at ATP Cup

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/djokovic-and-nadal-rally-for-merger-of-atp-cup-and-davis-cup-271915">Novak Djokovic</a> said Australian Open organisers should consider delaying the first <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-cup-2020-tennis-innovative-24-team-tournament-to-begin-from-january-3-271406">Grand Slam</a> of the year if haze from bushfires raging around the country threatens players' health.

The opening major of 2020 is due to start at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fuelled-by-high-temperatures-and-strong-winds-australian-bushfires-continues-rage-272114">Melbourne</a> Park on January 20 and the city was blanketed by smoke from blazes burning to the east on Saturday, compromising air quality.

Djokovic, president of the ATP players council, said in the early hours of Sunday that any delay would be a last resort, but it needed to be discussed.

"I mean, it's fair from you to say that (ask the question)," he said when pressed on the matter in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-cup-kicks-off-with-shapovalov-win-271903">Brisbane</a>, where he is playing for Serbia in the inaugural ATP Cup team event.

"Obviously, you have to always&nbsp;because of some extreme weather and conditions, you just have to consider it.

"But I think that's probably the very, very last option for anything. I think they're going to try to do anything to not delay in terms of days and when it starts.

"I mean, and I understand why, but if it comes down to those conditions affecting the health of players, I think we should definitely consider it."

Catastrophic <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-firefighters-get-brief-reprieve-as-death-toll-rises-272175">bushfires</a> have been raging in Australia for weeks, leaving 24 dead and hundreds of properties destroyed.

Tennis officials last week took the unprecedented decision to relocate the Canberra International, an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-cup-2020-tennis-innovative-24-team-tournament-to-begin-from-january-3-271406">ATP</a> Challenger 125 event and on the women's ITF World Tennis Tour, which serves as a stepping stone to the full tour.

They said play would not have been possible in the Australian capital which has been choked by smoke, with the tournament now due to start Monday at Bendigo in Victoria state.

Djokovic said he had experienced air quality issues at tournaments in China, but the bushfires had created an unprecedented situation.

The Serbian superstar said he not spoken to Tennis Australia chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-prize-pool-jumps-to-49-million-biggest-gains-for-early-rounds-269945">Craig Tiley</a> "but people from my team have".

"They're obviously tracking the situation every single day as it's evolving and hopefully calming down with the smoke and fires," he said.

"I think they will, if it continues the same way and if the quality of air is affected.&nbsp;I think Tennis Australia probably will be forced to, I think, create some rules about it.

"I mean, it's tough for them because scheduling has to be respected in terms of play and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sharapova-to-return-next-month-as-brisbane-wildcard-271149">Australian Open</a> starts at a certain time, so there's a lot of different things involved.&nbsp;

"But health is a concern for me and for anybody."

He said the ATP players' council was due to meet before the Australian Open and the issue would be on the agenda.

Novak Djokovic said Australian Open organisers should consider delaying the first Grand Slam of the year if haze from bushfires raging around the country threatens players' health.

Novak Djokovic said Australian Open organisers should consider delaying the first Grand Slam of the year if haze from bushfires raging around the country threatens players' health. The opening major of 2020 is due to start at Melbourne Park on January 20 and the city was blanketed by smoke from blazes burning to the east on Saturday, compromising air quality. Djokovic, president of the ATP players council, said in the early hours of Sunday that any delay would be a last resort, but it needed to be discussed. "I mean, it's fair from you to say that (ask the question)," he said when pressed on the matter in Brisbane, where he is playing for Serbia in the inaugural ATP Cup team event. "Obviously, you have to always because of some extreme weather and conditions, you just have to consider it. "But I think that's probably the very, very last option for anything. I think they're going to try to do anything to not delay in terms of days and when it starts. "I mean, and I understand why, but if it comes down to those conditions affecting the health of players, I think we should definitely consider it." Catastrophic bushfires have been raging in Australia for weeks, leaving 24 dead and hundreds of properties destroyed. Tennis officials last week took the unprecedented decision to relocate the Canberra International, an ATP Challenger 125 event and on the women's ITF World Tennis Tour, which serves as a stepping stone to the full tour. They said play would not have been possible in the Australian capital which has been choked by smoke, with the tournament now due to start Monday at Bendigo in Victoria state. Djokovic said he had experienced air quality issues at tournaments in China, but the bushfires had created an unprecedented situation. The Serbian superstar said he not spoken to Tennis Australia chief Craig Tiley "but people from my team have". "They're obviously tracking the situation every single day as it's evolving and hopefully calming down with the smoke and fires," he said. "I think they will, if it continues the same way and if the quality of air is affected. I think Tennis Australia probably will be forced to, I think, create some rules about it. "I mean, it's tough for them because scheduling has to be respected in terms of play and the Australian Open starts at a certain time, so there's a lot of different things involved. "But health is a concern for me and for anybody." He said the ATP players' council was due to meet before the Australian Open and the issue would be on the agenda.

ATP: Novak Djokovic concerned about smoke at Australian Open as bushfires continue to blaze

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-angry-djokovic-regains-calm-to-see-off-shapovalov-challenge-191382">Denis&nbsp;Shapovalov</a>&nbsp;won the&nbsp;battle&nbsp;of the up-and-comers against Greek Stefanos&nbsp;Tsitsipas&nbsp;to clinch Canada's opening tie in the inaugural&nbsp;ATP&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;men's team event in Brisbane on Friday.

The baby-faced left-hander, 20, handed Canada an unassailable 2-0 lead in the tie with a 7-6(6) 7-6(4) victory in the second rubber against world number six&nbsp;Tsitsipas&nbsp;at the Patrick Rafter Arena.

Canada went up 1-0 when Felix Auger-Aliassime claimed a breezy 6-1-6-3 victory over Michail Pervolarakis for the first win in the $15 million&nbsp;ATP&nbsp;Cup, which features 24 nations contesting in Perth, Brisbane and Sydney over 10 days.

The participating teams for the event have been determined by the singles ranking of their best player. Six of the top seven players in the world, barring Swiss great <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/federer-and-zverev-mexico-city-match-breaks-world-attendance-record-264207">Roger Federer</a>, have arrived in Australia.

The event, however, did not get off to the best possible start with the organisers playing a wrong national anthem for Moldova ahead of their tie against Belgium in Sydney.

Belgium's number two singles player and captain Steve Darcis won the rubber with a 6-4 6-7(4) 7-5 win against Alexander Cozbinov before world number 11 David Goffin settled the tie in the team's favour by defeating Radu Albot 6-4 6-1.

"At the start of the Moldova vs Belgium match we mistakenly played the wrong national anthem for Moldova," the organisers said on the official Twitter handle for the&nbsp;ATP&nbsp;Cup. "We are sincerely sorry and have apologised personally to Team Moldova."

The 21-year-old&nbsp;Tsitsipas&nbsp;was considered the favourite going into the match against&nbsp;Shapovalov&nbsp;having defeated Roger Federer and Dominic Thiem to win the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-cup-2020-tennis-innovative-24-team-tournament-to-begin-from-january-3-271406">ATP</a>&nbsp;Finals in November.

But&nbsp;Shapovalov, who played brilliantly to lead Canada to its first Davis&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;final in November where they eventually went down to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nadal-murray-honoured-at-atp-awards-269400">Rafael Nadal</a>'s Spain, was the better player on the big points against the Greek.

After more than two hours of power-hitting from two of the&nbsp;ATP's most exciting&nbsp;next&nbsp;generation players in a match in which there was no break of serves,&nbsp;Shapovalov&nbsp;converted his first matchpoint when&nbsp;Tsitsipas&nbsp;double faulted on his serve.

"It's definitely a huge win for me,"&nbsp;Shapovalov&nbsp;said in an on-court interview. "Obviously, he had an unbelievable end to the season and he's definitely one of the top players in the world right now. He's got a great game.

"So to beat a guy like this in the first match of the year, it's really special for me. It means a lot.

"I think today it was just a couple points here and there, just tried to keep playing my game, keep playing every single point and wait for my chances and I just think that I took advantage really well in the tie-breaks."

Denis Shapovalov won the battle of the up-and-comers against Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas to clinch Canada's opening tie in the inaugural ATP Cup men's team event in Brisbane on Friday.

Denis Shapovalov won the battle of the up-and-comers against Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas to clinch Canada's opening tie in the inaugural ATP Cup men's team event in Brisbane on Friday. The baby-faced left-hander, 20, handed Canada an unassailable 2-0 lead in the tie with a 7-6(6) 7-6(4) victory in the second rubber against world number six Tsitsipas at the Patrick Rafter Arena. Canada went up 1-0 when Felix Auger-Aliassime claimed a breezy 6-1-6-3 victory over Michail Pervolarakis for the first win in the $15 million ATP Cup, which features 24 nations contesting in Perth, Brisbane and Sydney over 10 days. The participating teams for the event have been determined by the singles ranking of their best player. Six of the top seven players in the world, barring Swiss great Roger Federer, have arrived in Australia. The event, however, did not get off to the best possible start with the organisers playing a wrong national anthem for Moldova ahead of their tie against Belgium in Sydney. Belgium's number two singles player and captain Steve Darcis won the rubber with a 6-4 6-7(4) 7-5 win against Alexander Cozbinov before world number 11 David Goffin settled the tie in the team's favour by defeating Radu Albot 6-4 6-1. "At the start of the Moldova vs Belgium match we mistakenly played the wrong national anthem for Moldova," the organisers said on the official Twitter handle for the ATP Cup. "We are sincerely sorry and have apologised personally to Team Moldova." The 21-year-old Tsitsipas was considered the favourite going into the match against Shapovalov having defeated Roger Federer and Dominic Thiem to win the ATP Finals in November. But Shapovalov, who played brilliantly to lead Canada to its first Davis Cup final in November where they eventually went down to Rafael Nadal's Spain, was the better player on the big points against the Greek. After more than two hours of power-hitting from two of the ATP's most exciting next generation players in a match in which there was no break of serves, Shapovalov converted his first matchpoint when Tsitsipas double faulted on his serve. "It's definitely a huge win for me," Shapovalov said in an on-court interview. "Obviously, he had an unbelievable end to the season and he's definitely one of the top players in the world right now. He's got a great game. "So to beat a guy like this in the first match of the year, it's really special for me. It means a lot. "I think today it was just a couple points here and there, just tried to keep playing my game, keep playing every single point and wait for my chances and I just think that I took advantage really well in the tie-breaks."

2020 ATP Cup kicks off with Denis Shapovalov win

&nbsp;Former world number one <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../andy-murray-beats-stan-wawrinka-to-win-first- title-since-hip-surgery-257186">Andy&nbsp;Murray</a>&nbsp;is&nbsp;excited&nbsp;to&nbsp;see&nbsp;what&nbsp;he&nbsp;can&nbsp;achieve over the&nbsp;next&nbsp;couple&nbsp;of&nbsp;years&nbsp;after returning to the tour following hip resurfacing surgery but he will not be setting any lofty targets.

The 32-year-old Briton looked on the verge of ending his career at the start of the year but after undergoing surgery in January, he has returned in impressive fashion.

After initially playing doubles at Queen's Club, where he won the title alongside Feliciano Lopez, and Wimbledon,&nbsp;Murray&nbsp;has exceeded expectations on the singles court and won the title in Antwerp last month, beating Stan Wawrinka in the final.

Murray, ranked 125th, will end his season at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../tennis-raonic-withdraws-from-canadas-davis- cup-team-261552">Davis Cup</a> Finals&nbsp;next&nbsp;week before turning his thoughts to&nbsp;next&nbsp;year's Australian Open having thought this year's appearance in Melbourne was probably his last.

"I'm very lucky I get that chance again in January if I stay fit in the&nbsp;next&nbsp;couple&nbsp;of months and it'll be fun to&nbsp;see&nbsp;what&nbsp;I&nbsp;can&nbsp;do,"&nbsp;Murray&nbsp;told British media on Tuesday.

"It has been an up and down few&nbsp;years&nbsp;but I feel like I'm coming through the other side of it and&nbsp;excited&nbsp;to&nbsp;see&nbsp;what&nbsp;I&nbsp;can&nbsp;do over the&nbsp;next&nbsp;couple&nbsp;of&nbsp;years.

"It's difficult to say exactly where I am. I'm not where I was when I was 25 but I don't expect to be and don't need to be (in order) to be competitive at the highest level. That's why I'm&nbsp;excited."

Murray's European Open title in Antwerp, his first since March 2017, has given him the belief that he could beat the likes of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../atp-finals-federer-eyes-djokovic-after- rebounding-against-berrettini-261773">Rafael Nadal</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../atp-finals-federer-eyes-djokovic-after- rebounding-against-berrettini-261773">Novak Djokovic</a> -- a notion that would have appeared impossible a few months ago.

"I know if I played against the top players tomorrow there would be a very small chance of me winning that match," he said. "But I do feel I could win.

"That's one of the performance goals I want -- when I go out on court against all of the players I want to feel like I have a chance of winning."

Murray, whose wife Kim gave birth to their third child a few weeks ago, says the main priority is to continue playing pain free and enjoying the battle.

"I'm not going to set a target of top 10 or trying to make the semis of a Grand Slam because I've done all of that before and I don't need that," he said.

"So if I'm 30 in the world or 70 in the world but I'm still enjoying it and still enjoying the preparations and training and I feel competitive then that would be success for me."

Former world number one Andy Murray is excited to see what he can achieve over the next couple of years after returning to the tour following hip resurfacing surgery but he will not be setting any lofty targets.

Former world number one Andy Murray is excited to see what he can achieve over the next couple of years after returning to the tour following hip resurfacing surgery but he will not be setting any lofty targets. The 32-year-old Briton looked on the verge of ending his career at the start of the year but after undergoing surgery in January, he has returned in impressive fashion. After initially playing doubles at Queen's Club, where he won the title alongside Feliciano Lopez, and Wimbledon, Murray has exceeded expectations on the singles court and won the title in Antwerp last month, beating Stan Wawrinka in the final. Murray, ranked 125th, will end his season at the Davis Cup Finals next week before turning his thoughts to next year's Australian Open having thought this year's appearance in Melbourne was probably his last. "I'm very lucky I get that chance again in January if I stay fit in the next couple of months and it'll be fun to see what I can do," Murray told British media on Tuesday. "It has been an up and down few years but I feel like I'm coming through the other side of it and excited to see what I can do over the next couple of years. "It's difficult to say exactly where I am. I'm not where I was when I was 25 but I don't expect to be and don't need to be (in order) to be competitive at the highest level. That's why I'm excited." Murray's European Open title in Antwerp, his first since March 2017, has given him the belief that he could beat the likes of Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic -- a notion that would have appeared impossible a few months ago. "I know if I played against the top players tomorrow there would be a very small chance of me winning that match," he said. "But I do feel I could win. "That's one of the performance goals I want -- when I go out on court against all of the players I want to feel like I have a chance of winning." Murray, whose wife Kim gave birth to their third child a few weeks ago, says the main priority is to continue playing pain free and enjoying the battle. "I'm not going to set a target of top 10 or trying to make the semis of a Grand Slam because I've done all of that before and I don't need that," he said. "So if I'm 30 in the world or 70 in the world but I'm still enjoying it and still enjoying the preparations and training and I feel competitive then that would be success for me."

Andy Murray excited to see what next couple of years can bring

Andy Murray claimed his first ATP title since having career-saving hip surgery as he fought off Stan Wawrinka in an engrossing duel in the European Open final in Antwerp on Sunday.

Former world number one Murray, who appeared on the brink of retirement after losing in the first round of the Australian Open in January, battled back from a set and a break down to win 3-6 6-4 6-4.

In the first final between the pair for 11 years it was 34-year-old Wawrinka, who has also suffered injury problems, who appeared on course for victory when he had points for a double break in the second set, having powered through the first.

But Murray, 32, who opted to have hip resurfacing surgery after the Australian Open and only returned to court in June, initially in doubles, displayed his old fighting qualities and no sign of any physical problems as he roared back to claim a 46th career title.

The deciding set was littered with service breaks but Murray crucially saved breakpoints at 4-4 and then pounced when Wawrinka served in the next game, sealing the title as his tiring Swiss opponent blazed a forehand wide.

"It's amazing to be back playing against Stan in a final like that, he was playing unbelievable," Murray, who appeared close to tears at the end, said on court.

"I never expected to be in this position so I'm very happy. Stan was hitting winners from everywhere but I managed to hang in there. This is one of my biggest wins after everything."

Murray's last title came in Dubai in March 2017 when he was still the top-ranked player in the world.

The Scot is attempting to defy conventional wisdom as no player has ever returned from such a hip procedure to the top levels in singles. He has been picking up encouraging victories of late and reached the quarter-finals of the China Open but Wawrinka was by far his biggest win since returning.

Wawrinka, who had knee surgery two years ago, broke Murray's serve in the second game of the match and dominated many of the rallies with his backhand punching holes in Murray's guard.

Two backhand winners gave Wawrinka a break for 2-1 in the second set and he then had Murray 15-40 down at 1-3.

Murray survived through and became increasingly fired-up as Wawrinka's serve began to cool off.

He broke back, then saved a breakpoint at 4-4 when he challenged an "out" call on a forehand before winning the replayed point and letting out a huge roar.

Two rasping backhands secured Murray the set on Wawrinka's serve and the decider was a real scrap between the old warriors.

Murray had more in the tank though as he took his career record over Wawrinka to 12-8.

The Scot is about to become a father for the third time and joked that his family has grown since his enforced time away from the match court.

"I've got a third one coming so I will have three kids under four years old," Murray said.

"When I have been off Tour my family has got bigger so I need to get back on the road so we don't get out of control."

Andy Murray claimed his first ATP title since having career-saving hip surgery as he fought off Stan Wawrinka in an engrossing duel in the European Open final in Antwerp on Sunday.

Andy Murray claimed his first ATP title since having career-saving hip surgery as he fought off Stan Wawrinka in an engrossing duel in the European Open final in Antwerp on Sunday. Former world number one Murray, who appeared on the brink of retirement after losing in the first round of the Australian Open in January, battled back from a set and a break down to win 3-6 6-4 6-4. In the first final between the pair for 11 years it was 34-year-old Wawrinka, who has also suffered injury problems, who appeared on course for victory when he had points for a double break in the second set, having powered through the first. But Murray, 32, who opted to have hip resurfacing surgery after the Australian Open and only returned to court in June, initially in doubles, displayed his old fighting qualities and no sign of any physical problems as he roared back to claim a 46th career title. The deciding set was littered with service breaks but Murray crucially saved breakpoints at 4-4 and then pounced when Wawrinka served in the next game, sealing the title as his tiring Swiss opponent blazed a forehand wide. "It's amazing to be back playing against Stan in a final like that, he was playing unbelievable," Murray, who appeared close to tears at the end, said on court. "I never expected to be in this position so I'm very happy. Stan was hitting winners from everywhere but I managed to hang in there. This is one of my biggest wins after everything." Murray's last title came in Dubai in March 2017 when he was still the top-ranked player in the world. The Scot is attempting to defy conventional wisdom as no player has ever returned from such a hip procedure to the top levels in singles. He has been picking up encouraging victories of late and reached the quarter-finals of the China Open but Wawrinka was by far his biggest win since returning. Wawrinka, who had knee surgery two years ago, broke Murray's serve in the second game of the match and dominated many of the rallies with his backhand punching holes in Murray's guard. Two backhand winners gave Wawrinka a break for 2-1 in the second set and he then had Murray 15-40 down at 1-3. Murray survived through and became increasingly fired-up as Wawrinka's serve began to cool off. He broke back, then saved a breakpoint at 4-4 when he challenged an "out" call on a forehand before winning the replayed point and letting out a huge roar. Two rasping backhands secured Murray the set on Wawrinka's serve and the decider was a real scrap between the old warriors. Murray had more in the tank though as he took his career record over Wawrinka to 12-8. The Scot is about to become a father for the third time and joked that his family has grown since his enforced time away from the match court. "I've got a third one coming so I will have three kids under four years old," Murray said. "When I have been off Tour my family has got bigger so I need to get back on the road so we don't get out of control."

Andy Murray beats Stan Wawrinka to win first title since hip surgery

Rising star Stefanos Tsitsipas only turned 21 last month and is the youngest player in the world's top 10 -- but he refuses to be intimidated.

Last weekend, the Greek tyro played doubles alongside Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal at the Laver Cup, the latest step in his fast ascent, although he lost both matches.

That daunting but ageing duo, along with Novak Djokovic, have reigned over men's tennis for 15 years, but Tsitsipas is not content to wait for them to retire before he takes his chance.

Along with the likes of Alexander Zverev and Daniil Medvedev, Tsitsipas is frequently mentioned among the new generation challenging the supremacy of the "Big Three".

"In order to get higher in the rankings, we have to surpass them and it's quite a difficult task," the world number seven told AFP at the Zhuhai Championships.

"But we are working on it, by 'we' I mean the young guys.

"As my slogan goes, don't wait for an opportunity, create it.

"So I like to go after that and I don't think it's right to wait because you kind of surrender when you wait."

Despite his tender years, Tsitsipas has already racked up more than $6 million in career earnings and won three ATP Tour titles. Two came this year.

He is the top seed in Zhuhai, southern China, where he was to play France's unseeded Adrian Mannarino later Thursday.

His life has changed as his fame has grown.

When Tsitsipas walks the streets of his native Greece, he is now surrounded and children there are beginning to take up tennis because of him.

It is perhaps a little fanciful, but a friend recently told him that he is now the most famous name in Greece behind Coca-Cola.

If that sounds boastful, Tsitsipas does not intend it to be.

"I don't know if it's true, but I hope it's not," he said.

"It's good, obviously, but it's too soon to be there, too soon," he repeated, adding that he still has "a lot to improve, a lot to achieve".

'A new star'

Tsitsipas, who lost to Nadal in the semi-finals of this year's Australian Open -- his best performance in a Grand Slam -- made another comparison about his swift rise that he is more comfortable with.

Again, the young Greek stressed that he was not trying to show off, "but people compare it to 1980 when Greece produced Nikos Galis, the basketball player, who at that time was the most popular, famous athlete in Greece.

"People keep telling me that over and over and over again."

If Galis, now 62, is part of Greece's sporting folklore, the floppy-haired Tsitsipas wants to be its future.

After losing to Djokovic in the final of the Madrid Open in May, the world number one told Tsitsipas: "You are definitely a new star in tennis."

The young Greek, whose parents were both tennis players and his father is now his coach, is at ease with that tag rather than intimidated by it.

"I am honoured that many players and people and everyone says that I'm the next thing because I remember years ago when no one would really talk about me," he said.

"It's nice to see that change and see myself growing as a player, and respected and also talked about."

Rising star Stefanos Tsitsipas only turned 21 last month and is the youngest player in the world's top 10 -- but he refuses to be intimidated. Last weekend, the Greek tyro played doubles alongside Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal at the Laver Cup, the latest step in his fast ascent, although he lost both matches.

Rising star Stefanos Tsitsipas only turned 21 last month and is the youngest player in the world's top 10 -- but he refuses to be intimidated. Last weekend, the Greek tyro played doubles alongside Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal at the Laver Cup, the latest step in his fast ascent, although he lost both matches. That daunting but ageing duo, along with Novak Djokovic, have reigned over men's tennis for 15 years, but Tsitsipas is not content to wait for them to retire before he takes his chance. Along with the likes of Alexander Zverev and Daniil Medvedev, Tsitsipas is frequently mentioned among the new generation challenging the supremacy of the "Big Three". "In order to get higher in the rankings, we have to surpass them and it's quite a difficult task," the world number seven told AFP at the Zhuhai Championships. "But we are working on it, by 'we' I mean the young guys. "As my slogan goes, don't wait for an opportunity, create it. "So I like to go after that and I don't think it's right to wait because you kind of surrender when you wait." Despite his tender years, Tsitsipas has already racked up more than $6 million in career earnings and won three ATP Tour titles. Two came this year. He is the top seed in Zhuhai, southern China, where he was to play France's unseeded Adrian Mannarino later Thursday. His life has changed as his fame has grown. When Tsitsipas walks the streets of his native Greece, he is now surrounded and children there are beginning to take up tennis because of him. It is perhaps a little fanciful, but a friend recently told him that he is now the most famous name in Greece behind Coca-Cola. If that sounds boastful, Tsitsipas does not intend it to be. "I don't know if it's true, but I hope it's not," he said. "It's good, obviously, but it's too soon to be there, too soon," he repeated, adding that he still has "a lot to improve, a lot to achieve". 'A new star' Tsitsipas, who lost to Nadal in the semi-finals of this year's Australian Open -- his best performance in a Grand Slam -- made another comparison about his swift rise that he is more comfortable with. Again, the young Greek stressed that he was not trying to show off, "but people compare it to 1980 when Greece produced Nikos Galis, the basketball player, who at that time was the most popular, famous athlete in Greece. "People keep telling me that over and over and over again." If Galis, now 62, is part of Greece's sporting folklore, the floppy-haired Tsitsipas wants to be its future. After losing to Djokovic in the final of the Madrid Open in May, the world number one told Tsitsipas: "You are definitely a new star in tennis." The young Greek, whose parents were both tennis players and his father is now his coach, is at ease with that tag rather than intimidated by it. "I am honoured that many players and people and everyone says that I'm the next thing because I remember years ago when no one would really talk about me," he said. "It's nice to see that change and see myself growing as a player, and respected and also talked about."

Stefanos Tsitsipas won't surrender in pursuit of tennis Big Three

Former world number one Andy Murray won his first ATP tour singles match in nearly nine months with a 6-3 6-7(6) 6-1 victory over American Tennys Sandgren in the opening round of the Zhuhai Championships on Tuesday.

Murray, whose last win on the tour came in Brisbane prior to the Australian Open, did win twice at the Rafa Nadal Open — a second-tier ATP Challenger Tour event — last month before opting to return to the ATP tour for the Asian swing.

"After the operation in January it's been difficult and it was undecided at times about whether I wanted to keep going or not," Murray told reporters after claiming his first win on the tour since a hip resurfacing procedure that threatened to end his career prematurely.

"But I'm really glad that I can actually get the win today and hopefully I'll be able to keep going.

"Tonight I was hitting the ball well, movement was I think pretty good... I served well. Obviously there's things that I feel I can do better, but it was definitely progress.

"Now I'm tired and fatigued. (My) muscles are tired from playing the match, but in terms of how my hip feels, that feels really good."

Murray made his return to the circuit during the grasscourt swing earlier this year but only played doubles before his singles comeback at the Cincinnati Masters and the Winston-Salem Open ended in first-round defeats.

The 32-year-old fired 13 aces and did not face a single breakpoint in the match that lasted two hours and 41 minutes in humid conditions.

Murray had the opportunity to win in straight sets when he had a match point at 6-5 in the second-set tiebreak, but Sandgren won the next three points to take it into the deciding set.

However, Sandgren struggled in the third set, dropping serve twice to give Murray a 4-0 lead and the American also needed a long medical timeout to have his foot strapped.

Sandgren, currently ranked 344 places above Murray, managed to hold serve once but it did not prevent a visibly exhausted Murray from serving out the match to set up a last-16 clash with seventh seed Alex De Minaur.

Former world number one Andy Murray won his first ATP tour singles match in nearly nine months with a 6-3 6-7(6) 6-1 victory over American Tennys Sandgren in the opening round of the Zhuhai Championships on Tuesday.

Former world number one Andy Murray won his first ATP tour singles match in nearly nine months with a 6-3 6-7(6) 6-1 victory over American Tennys Sandgren in the opening round of the Zhuhai Championships on Tuesday. Murray, whose last win on the tour came in Brisbane prior to the Australian Open, did win twice at the Rafa Nadal Open — a second-tier ATP Challenger Tour event — last month before opting to return to the ATP tour for the Asian swing. "After the operation in January it's been difficult and it was undecided at times about whether I wanted to keep going or not," Murray told reporters after claiming his first win on the tour since a hip resurfacing procedure that threatened to end his career prematurely. "But I'm really glad that I can actually get the win today and hopefully I'll be able to keep going. "Tonight I was hitting the ball well, movement was I think pretty good... I served well. Obviously there's things that I feel I can do better, but it was definitely progress. "Now I'm tired and fatigued. (My) muscles are tired from playing the match, but in terms of how my hip feels, that feels really good." Murray made his return to the circuit during the grasscourt swing earlier this year but only played doubles before his singles comeback at the Cincinnati Masters and the Winston-Salem Open ended in first-round defeats. The 32-year-old fired 13 aces and did not face a single breakpoint in the match that lasted two hours and 41 minutes in humid conditions. Murray had the opportunity to win in straight sets when he had a match point at 6-5 in the second-set tiebreak, but Sandgren won the next three points to take it into the deciding set. However, Sandgren struggled in the third set, dropping serve twice to give Murray a 4-0 lead and the American also needed a long medical timeout to have his foot strapped. Sandgren, currently ranked 344 places above Murray, managed to hold serve once but it did not prevent a visibly exhausted Murray from serving out the match to set up a last-16 clash with seventh seed Alex De Minaur.

Andy Murray battles to first singles win on tour since January in Zhuhai

French Open champion Ashleigh Barty survived a first-round scare at the US&nbsp;Open on Monday, staving off Kazakhstan's Zarina Diyas 1-6, 6-3 6-2 after struggling to find her footing as the action kicked off at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

The 25-year-old Diyas took five straight games in the first set, as the world No.2 committed a string of unforced errors and got in just 25 per cent&nbsp;of her first serves.

Barty was able to stop the pain midway through the second set, converting on a crucial break-point opportunity to take a 5-3 lead and reverse the momentum in what had been a one-sided match.

"Not the ideal start, not the perfect start, but it is what it is. We were able to find a way after that to get into the match and be more patient and really just kind of lock down and wait until I got the right balls and right patterns that I wanted," Barty told reporters.

"Particularly in that first set, (Diyas) was able to put the ball in an awkward position for me, in a position where I couldn't attack."

The 23-year-old Australian, who reached the fourth round here last year, appeared to be back on form by the third set, getting in nearly two-thirds of her first serves and firing off 12 winners.

Barty skyrocketed to fame in June when she became the first Australian woman in 46 years to win the French Open singles title after downing Czech teenager Marketa Vondrousova in straight sets.

She followed up that performance with a win at the Birmingham Classic and also enjoyed a brief stint atop the WTA singles rankings.

French Open champion Ashleigh Barty survived a first-round scare at the US Open on Monday, staving off Kazakhstan's Zarina Diyas 1-6, 6-3 6-2 after struggling to find her footing as the action kicked off at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

French Open champion Ashleigh Barty survived a first-round scare at the US Open on Monday, staving off Kazakhstan's Zarina Diyas 1-6, 6-3 6-2 after struggling to find her footing as the action kicked off at Arthur Ashe Stadium. The 25-year-old Diyas took five straight games in the first set, as the world No.2 committed a string of unforced errors and got in just 25 per cent of her first serves. Barty was able to stop the pain midway through the second set, converting on a crucial break-point opportunity to take a 5-3 lead and reverse the momentum in what had been a one-sided match. "Not the ideal start, not the perfect start, but it is what it is. We were able to find a way after that to get into the match and be more patient and really just kind of lock down and wait until I got the right balls and right patterns that I wanted," Barty told reporters. "Particularly in that first set, (Diyas) was able to put the ball in an awkward position for me, in a position where I couldn't attack." The 23-year-old Australian, who reached the fourth round here last year, appeared to be back on form by the third set, getting in nearly two-thirds of her first serves and firing off 12 winners. Barty skyrocketed to fame in June when she became the first Australian woman in 46 years to win the French Open singles title after downing Czech teenager Marketa Vondrousova in straight sets. She followed up that performance with a win at the Birmingham Classic and also enjoyed a brief stint atop the WTA singles rankings.

Ashleigh Barty survives first-round fright at US Open

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