Rafael Nadal beat Daniil Medvedev in the Australia Open final on Sunday to win a men`s record 21st Grand Slam title.

The following is a timeline charting how Nadal, playing in what is considered to be the greatest era of men`s tennis, surpassed the haul of Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.

2003: Federer became the newest entrant into the Grand Slam club with the first of his eight Wimbledon titles, beating Mark Philippoussis in the final.

Tally: Federer 1

2004: The Swiss flexed his muscles by winning three majors -- the Australian Open, Wimbledon and the U.S. Open.

Tally: Federer 4

2005: While Federer defended his Wimbledon and U.S. Open titles, Nadal burst on to the scene with his first French Open title beating Mariano Puerta in the final.

Tally: Federer 6; Nadal 1

2006: Federer`s domination continued as he won three majors, including beating Nadal in the Wimbledon final, but Nadal laid the foundation for his claycourt reign with his second French Open title.

Tally: Federer 9; Nadal 2

Reda Also |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-beats-daniil-medvedev-to-win-austraian-open-2022-bags-record-21st-grand-slam-title-449020">&nbsp;Rafael Nadal beats Daniil Medvedev to win Austraian Open 2022, bags record 21st Grand Slam title</a>

2007: The seemingly unstoppable Federer repeated his feat from the previous year but the French Open title continued to elude him as Nadal thwarted him in the final for a second straight year.

Tally: Federer 12; Nadal 3

2008: Djokovic hit the big time with his maiden major, beating Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in the Australian Open final. After his French Open triumph, Nadal stunned Federer in the Wimbledon final but the Swiss responded by winning the U.S. Open.

Tally: Federer 13; Nadal 5; Djokovic 1

2009: Nadal won his first hardcourt Grand Slam title, edging out Federer in five sets in the Australian Open final. However, Nadal`s 31-match winning streak at Roland Garros ended in the fourth round, allowing Federer to claim his only French crown.

Nadal was unable to defend his Wimbledon title as he was forced to pull out with knee problems. The Swiss went on to claim his record 15th major at Wimbledon, surpassing Pete Sampras` record tally.

Tally: Federer 15; Nadal 6; Djokovic 1

2010: Federer started the year by winning the Australian Open for a fourth time. But it turned out to be Nadal`s finest campaign as he swept the next three majors. He defeated Djokovic in the U.S. Open final to complete a career Grand Slam.

Tally: Federer 16; Nadal 9; Djokovic 1

2011: The Big Two became the Big Three as Djokovic won 10 titles in 2011, including three majors at the Australian Open, Wimbledon and the U.S. Open. Meanwhile, Nadal reclaimed his French Open crown for his 10th major title overall.

Tally: Federer 16; Nadal 10; Djokovic 4

Read Also |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/intruder-halts-play-in-australian-open-final-between-rafael-nadal-and-daniil-medvedev-449005">&nbsp;Intruder halts play in Australian Open final between Rafael Nadal and Daniil Medvedev</a>

2012: Djokovic overcame Nadal in the longest Grand Slam final in the Open Era to win his third Australian Open title. 
Nadal continued his dominant run at Roland Garros to add another major title to his tally, while Federer won a record-extending 17th major at Wimbledon.

Tally: Federer 17; Nadal 11; Djokovic 5

2013: Djokovic won his third straight Australian Open by defeating Andy Murray in the final. While Federer struggled with a back injury, Nadal finished the year as number one after defending his French Open crown and adding another U.S. Open title to his tally.

Tally: Federer 17; Nadal 13; Djokovic 6

2014: Again Federer failed to add to his Grand Slam tally as Nadal won his ninth French Open title, equalling Sampras` total of 14 slams. Djokovic defeated Federer in the Wimbledon final.

Tally: Federer 17; Nadal 14; Djokovic 7

2015: Djokovic accelerates, winning the Australian Open, Wimbledon and U.S. Open and also became only the second man to defeat Nadal at the French Open when he beat the Spaniard in the quarter-finals, only to lose to Stan Wawrinka in the final.

Tally: Federer 17; Nadal 14; Djokovic 10

2016: Djokovic defended his Australian Open crown before winning his maiden French Open title, making him the holder of all four majors -- a feat the media dubbed the "Nole Slam". Nadal and Federer were both plagued by injuries during the season and failed to add to their Grand Slam hauls.

Tally: Federer 17; Nadal 14; Djokovic 12

2017: Federer won his 18th slam -- and his first since Wimbledon 2012 -- with a thrilling five-set victory over Nadal in the Australian Open final.

Nadal cemented his place as the greatest claycourter in history when he secured a record 10th title in Roland Garros. Federer became the first man to win Wimbledon eight times with victory over Marin Cilic in the final, before Nadal clinched his third U.S. Open title. Djokovic missed the second part of the year with an elbow problem.

Tally: Federer 19; Nadal 16; Djokovic 12

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-barbara-krejcikova-and-katerina-siniakova-fight-back-to-win-womens-doubles-title-448925">Australian Open: Barbara Krejcikova and Katerina Siniakova fight back to win women's doubles title</a>

2018: Federer won his sixth Australian Open to become only the fourth player after Margaret Court, Serena Williams and Steffi Graf to win 20 or more major singles titles. Nadal extended his winning run at Roland Garros, before Djokovic earned his first major in more than two years at Wimbledon.

A third triumph in New York ensured Djokovic had equalled Sampras` tally of 14 majors and was now only behind Federer and Nadal in the all-time list.

Tally: Federer 20; Nadal 17; Djokovic 14

2019: Nadal closes to within one of Federer`s total as he maintained his stranglehold at the French Open and beat rising Russian Daniil Medvedev to win the U.S. Open.

Djokovic won a third successive major and a seventh Australian Open with a dominant straight sets win over Nadal and saved two match points against Federer to win a fifth Wimbledon title in a five-set classic.

Tally: Federer 20; Nadal 19; Djokovic 16

2020: Djokovic reeled off another Australian Open title but was thrashed 6-0 6-2 7-5 in the Roland Garros final by Nadal who moved alongside Federer for the first time with a record-equalling 20th men`s major title. With Nadal and Federer absent from the U.S. Open, Djokovic missed an opportunity to close the gap on his rivals after being disqualified from his fourth-round match for accidentally hitting a ball at a line judge.

Tally: Federer 20; Nadal 20; Djokovic 17

2021: Djokovic appears set to eclipse Nadal and Federer as he stormed to a ninth Australian Open title, beat Nadal in the French Open semi-final before downing Greece`s Stefanos Tsitsipas in the final and outclassed Italian Matteo Berrettini in the Wimbledon final.

Victory over Medvedev in the U.S. Open final would have sealed a first men`s calendar year Grand Slam since Rod Laver in 1969, and the lead in the G.O.A.T (greatest of all time) race, but the Serbian was surprisingly beaten. 
Nadal missed the second half of the year with a foot injury while Federer was also sidelined by a knee injury.

Tally: Federer 20, Nadal 20, Djokovic 20

2022: Nadal admitted that he was just pleased to be playing in Melbourne after fearing his foot injury might end his career. But with Djokovic deported after his visa was cancelled and Federer absent through injury, the Spaniard rolled back the years, becoming the first man to win 21 Grand Slam titles by beating Medvedev to claim the Australian Open for the first time since 2009.

Tally: Nadal 21, Federer 20, Djokovic 20

Rafael Nadal beat Daniil Medvedev in the Australia Open final on Sunday to win a men`s record 21st Grand Slam title. The following is a timeline charting how Nadal, playing in what is considered to be the greatest era of men`s tennis, surpassed the haul of Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.

Rafael Nadal beat Daniil Medvedev in the Australia Open final on Sunday to win a men`s record 21st Grand Slam title. The following is a timeline charting how Nadal, playing in what is considered to be the greatest era of men`s tennis, surpassed the haul of Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic. 2003: Federer became the newest entrant into the Grand Slam club with the first of his eight Wimbledon titles, beating Mark Philippoussis in the final. Tally: Federer 1 2004: The Swiss flexed his muscles by winning three majors -- the Australian Open, Wimbledon and the U.S. Open. Tally: Federer 4 2005: While Federer defended his Wimbledon and U.S. Open titles, Nadal burst on to the scene with his first French Open title beating Mariano Puerta in the final. Tally: Federer 6; Nadal 1 2006: Federer`s domination continued as he won three majors, including beating Nadal in the Wimbledon final, but Nadal laid the foundation for his claycourt reign with his second French Open title. Tally: Federer 9; Nadal 2 Reda Also | Rafael Nadal beats Daniil Medvedev to win Austraian Open 2022, bags record 21st Grand Slam title 2007: The seemingly unstoppable Federer repeated his feat from the previous year but the French Open title continued to elude him as Nadal thwarted him in the final for a second straight year. Tally: Federer 12; Nadal 3 2008: Djokovic hit the big time with his maiden major, beating Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in the Australian Open final. After his French Open triumph, Nadal stunned Federer in the Wimbledon final but the Swiss responded by winning the U.S. Open. Tally: Federer 13; Nadal 5; Djokovic 1 2009: Nadal won his first hardcourt Grand Slam title, edging out Federer in five sets in the Australian Open final. However, Nadal`s 31-match winning streak at Roland Garros ended in the fourth round, allowing Federer to claim his only French crown. Nadal was unable to defend his Wimbledon title as he was forced to pull out with knee problems. The Swiss went on to claim his record 15th major at Wimbledon, surpassing Pete Sampras` record tally. Tally: Federer 15; Nadal 6; Djokovic 1 2010: Federer started the year by winning the Australian Open for a fourth time. But it turned out to be Nadal`s finest campaign as he swept the next three majors. He defeated Djokovic in the U.S. Open final to complete a career Grand Slam. Tally: Federer 16; Nadal 9; Djokovic 1 2011: The Big Two became the Big Three as Djokovic won 10 titles in 2011, including three majors at the Australian Open, Wimbledon and the U.S. Open. Meanwhile, Nadal reclaimed his French Open crown for his 10th major title overall. Tally: Federer 16; Nadal 10; Djokovic 4 Read Also | Intruder halts play in Australian Open final between Rafael Nadal and Daniil Medvedev 2012: Djokovic overcame Nadal in the longest Grand Slam final in the Open Era to win his third Australian Open title. Nadal continued his dominant run at Roland Garros to add another major title to his tally, while Federer won a record-extending 17th major at Wimbledon. Tally: Federer 17; Nadal 11; Djokovic 5 2013: Djokovic won his third straight Australian Open by defeating Andy Murray in the final. While Federer struggled with a back injury, Nadal finished the year as number one after defending his French Open crown and adding another U.S. Open title to his tally. Tally: Federer 17; Nadal 13; Djokovic 6 2014: Again Federer failed to add to his Grand Slam tally as Nadal won his ninth French Open title, equalling Sampras` total of 14 slams. Djokovic defeated Federer in the Wimbledon final. Tally: Federer 17; Nadal 14; Djokovic 7 2015: Djokovic accelerates, winning the Australian Open, Wimbledon and U.S. Open and also became only the second man to defeat Nadal at the French Open when he beat the Spaniard in the quarter-finals, only to lose to Stan Wawrinka in the final. Tally: Federer 17; Nadal 14; Djokovic 10 2016: Djokovic defended his Australian Open crown before winning his maiden French Open title, making him the holder of all four majors -- a feat the media dubbed the "Nole Slam". Nadal and Federer were both plagued by injuries during the season and failed to add to their Grand Slam hauls. Tally: Federer 17; Nadal 14; Djokovic 12 2017: Federer won his 18th slam -- and his first since Wimbledon 2012 -- with a thrilling five-set victory over Nadal in the Australian Open final. Nadal cemented his place as the greatest claycourter in history when he secured a record 10th title in Roland Garros. Federer became the first man to win Wimbledon eight times with victory over Marin Cilic in the final, before Nadal clinched his third U.S. Open title. Djokovic missed the second part of the year with an elbow problem. Tally: Federer 19; Nadal 16; Djokovic 12 Read Also | Australian Open: Barbara Krejcikova and Katerina Siniakova fight back to win women's doubles title 2018: Federer won his sixth Australian Open to become only the fourth player after Margaret Court, Serena Williams and Steffi Graf to win 20 or more major singles titles. Nadal extended his winning run at Roland Garros, before Djokovic earned his first major in more than two years at Wimbledon. A third triumph in New York ensured Djokovic had equalled Sampras` tally of 14 majors and was now only behind Federer and Nadal in the all-time list. Tally: Federer 20; Nadal 17; Djokovic 14 2019: Nadal closes to within one of Federer`s total as he maintained his stranglehold at the French Open and beat rising Russian Daniil Medvedev to win the U.S. Open. Djokovic won a third successive major and a seventh Australian Open with a dominant straight sets win over Nadal and saved two match points against Federer to win a fifth Wimbledon title in a five-set classic. Tally: Federer 20; Nadal 19; Djokovic 16 2020: Djokovic reeled off another Australian Open title but was thrashed 6-0 6-2 7-5 in the Roland Garros final by Nadal who moved alongside Federer for the first time with a record-equalling 20th men`s major title. With Nadal and Federer absent from the U.S. Open, Djokovic missed an opportunity to close the gap on his rivals after being disqualified from his fourth-round match for accidentally hitting a ball at a line judge. Tally: Federer 20; Nadal 20; Djokovic 17 2021: Djokovic appears set to eclipse Nadal and Federer as he stormed to a ninth Australian Open title, beat Nadal in the French Open semi-final before downing Greece`s Stefanos Tsitsipas in the final and outclassed Italian Matteo Berrettini in the Wimbledon final. Victory over Medvedev in the U.S. Open final would have sealed a first men`s calendar year Grand Slam since Rod Laver in 1969, and the lead in the G.O.A.T (greatest of all time) race, but the Serbian was surprisingly beaten. Nadal missed the second half of the year with a foot injury while Federer was also sidelined by a knee injury. Tally: Federer 20, Nadal 20, Djokovic 20 2022: Nadal admitted that he was just pleased to be playing in Melbourne after fearing his foot injury might end his career. But with Djokovic deported after his visa was cancelled and Federer absent through injury, the Spaniard rolled back the years, becoming the first man to win 21 Grand Slam titles by beating Medvedev to claim the Australian Open for the first time since 2009. Tally: Nadal 21, Federer 20, Djokovic 20

Rafael Nadal's incredible journey to a men's record 21 Grand Slam titles

A protester jumped on to the court and interrupted play at a crucial stage of the Australian Open men`s singles final between Russian world number two Daniil Medvedev and Rafa Nadal of Spain at Melbourne Park on Sunday.

Security officials promptly made a human shield around the players as some others dragged the person, who appeared to carry a banner reading "abolish refugee detention", off the court at the Rod Laver Arena.

Nadal was attempting to save a break point while serving at 5-3 up in the second set as the person fell awkwardly from the stands behind Medvedev`s end of the court, halting play for a few minutes.

Read Also |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-barbara-krejcikova-and-katerina-siniakova-fight-back-to-win-womens-doubles-title-448925">&nbsp;Australian Open: Barbara Krejcikova and Katerina Siniakova fight back to win women's doubles title</a>

The Spaniard, who is chasing a 21st Grand Slam title, went on to lose the game and the second set in a tiebreaker.

Earlier this month, protesters criticised Australia`s harsh asylum policies when top-ranked Novak Djokovic was held in an immigration detention hotel after his visa was revoked on his arrival at Melbourne.

The Serbian was eventually deported from the country after a court upheld the government`s decision to cancel his visa, capping days of drama over Australia`s COVID-19 entry rules and his unvaccinated status.

A protester jumped on to the court and interrupted play at a crucial stage of the Australian Open men`s singles final between Russian world number two Daniil Medvedev and Rafa Nadal of Spain at Melbourne Park on Sunday.

A protester jumped on to the court and interrupted play at a crucial stage of the Australian Open men`s singles final between Russian world number two Daniil Medvedev and Rafa Nadal of Spain at Melbourne Park on Sunday. Security officials promptly made a human shield around the players as some others dragged the person, who appeared to carry a banner reading "abolish refugee detention", off the court at the Rod Laver Arena. Nadal was attempting to save a break point while serving at 5-3 up in the second set as the person fell awkwardly from the stands behind Medvedev`s end of the court, halting play for a few minutes. Read Also | Australian Open: Barbara Krejcikova and Katerina Siniakova fight back to win women's doubles title The Spaniard, who is chasing a 21st Grand Slam title, went on to lose the game and the second set in a tiebreaker. Earlier this month, protesters criticised Australia`s harsh asylum policies when top-ranked Novak Djokovic was held in an immigration detention hotel after his visa was revoked on his arrival at Melbourne. The Serbian was eventually deported from the country after a court upheld the government`s decision to cancel his visa, capping days of drama over Australia`s COVID-19 entry rules and his unvaccinated status.

Intruder halts play in Australian Open final between Rafael Nadal and Daniil Medvedev

World number one Ashleigh Barty said it was a `little bit surreal` after she won the Australian Open women`s title on Saturday night by defeating Danielle Collins in the final.

The top-seed became the first home winner of the Australian Open since Chris O`Neil in Kooyong in 1978 after holding off maiden Grand Slam finalist Danielle Collins 6-3 7-6(2) in Melbourne.

"It was a little bit surreal," she said afterward, as per wtatennis.com. "I think I didn`t quite know what to do or what to feel, and I think just being able to let out a little bit of emotion, which is a little bit unusual for me. Being able to celebrate with everyone who was there in the crowd, the energy was incredible tonight."

"Being able to understand how much work my team and I have done behind the scenes and over the last few years, to get to this point to be able to have this opportunity was really special. I think it just kind of all came out at once - a really, really special moment," she continued.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-2022-nick-kyrgios-thanasi-kokkinakis-clinch-mens-doubles-title-448795">Australian Open 2022: Nick Kyrgios, Thanasi Kokkinakis clinch men's doubles title</a>

Barty`s Australian Open victory is her third Grand Slam title after winning Roland Garros in 2019 and Wimbledon last year.

"I honestly just thought how lucky am I that I`ve got so many people here that love me for me, and got to experience this with me. Because I was gutted when mum and dad and some of my team couldn`t be there in Paris and in London."

"I think to be able to have almost everyone here was really, really special, and to do it at home and to be able to do it with them experience it with them was really special. Yeah, mum was always going to be the first one that I gave a hug to," the world number one added.

The 25-year-old didn`t lose a set en route to lifting the Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup for the first time and extended her head-to-head record over Collins to four wins from their five encounters.

World number one Ashleigh Barty said it was a `little bit surreal` after she won the Australian Open women`s title on Saturday night by defeating Danielle Collins in the final.

World number one Ashleigh Barty said it was a `little bit surreal` after she won the Australian Open women`s title on Saturday night by defeating Danielle Collins in the final. The top-seed became the first home winner of the Australian Open since Chris O`Neil in Kooyong in 1978 after holding off maiden Grand Slam finalist Danielle Collins 6-3 7-6(2) in Melbourne. "It was a little bit surreal," she said afterward, as per wtatennis.com. "I think I didn`t quite know what to do or what to feel, and I think just being able to let out a little bit of emotion, which is a little bit unusual for me. Being able to celebrate with everyone who was there in the crowd, the energy was incredible tonight." "Being able to understand how much work my team and I have done behind the scenes and over the last few years, to get to this point to be able to have this opportunity was really special. I think it just kind of all came out at once - a really, really special moment," she continued. Read Also | Australian Open 2022: Nick Kyrgios, Thanasi Kokkinakis clinch men's doubles title Barty`s Australian Open victory is her third Grand Slam title after winning Roland Garros in 2019 and Wimbledon last year. "I honestly just thought how lucky am I that I`ve got so many people here that love me for me, and got to experience this with me. Because I was gutted when mum and dad and some of my team couldn`t be there in Paris and in London." "I think to be able to have almost everyone here was really, really special, and to do it at home and to be able to do it with them experience it with them was really special. Yeah, mum was always going to be the first one that I gave a hug to," the world number one added. The 25-year-old didn`t lose a set en route to lifting the Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup for the first time and extended her head-to-head record over Collins to four wins from their five encounters.

'Little bit surreal': Ashleigh Barty after historic Australian Open triumph

Activists handing out “Where is Peng Shuai” T-shirts at the Australian Open say they will take their campaign to other grand slams and not cease until they are satisfied of the Chinese tennis player’s safety.

Activists hand out “Where is Peng Shuai” t-shirts at Australian Open

Thanasi Kokkinakis and Nick Kyrgios clinched the Australian Open men`s doubles title on Saturday evening. The crowd`s favourites defeated fellow Aussies Matthew Ebden and Max Purcell 7-5, 6-4 to lift the trophy at the Rod Laver Arena.

Kokkinakis and Kyrgios are the first wild cards to win the event in the Open Era and the first wild cards to triumph at any major since Wimbledon in 2012, when Jonathan Marray and Frederik Nielsen were victorious.

Heavy hitting from Kokkinakis and Kyrgios off the ground proved too much in the big moments in their one-hour, 35-minute victory. Purcell saved the first championship point at 3-5 in the second set with a big serve out wide.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-where-is-peng-shuai-t-shirts-handed-out-to-fans-at-melbourne-park-448739">Australian Open: 'Where is Peng Shuai?' T-shirts handed out to fans at Melbourne Park</a>

But in the next game, Kyrgios held to love. The champions completed their victory when Kokkinakis punched a backhand volley through the middle of the court for a winner.

Kokkinakis and Kyrgios are the first all-Australian men`s doubles champions at the Australian Open since Todd Woodbridge and Mark Woodforde triumphed in 1997.

Thanasi Kokkinakis and Nick Kyrgios clinched the Australian Open men`s doubles title on Saturday evening. The crowd`s favourites defeated fellow Aussies Matthew Ebden and Max Purcell 7-5, 6-4 to lift the trophy at the Rod Laver Arena.

Thanasi Kokkinakis and Nick Kyrgios clinched the Australian Open men`s doubles title on Saturday evening. The crowd`s favourites defeated fellow Aussies Matthew Ebden and Max Purcell 7-5, 6-4 to lift the trophy at the Rod Laver Arena. Kokkinakis and Kyrgios are the first wild cards to win the event in the Open Era and the first wild cards to triumph at any major since Wimbledon in 2012, when Jonathan Marray and Frederik Nielsen were victorious. Heavy hitting from Kokkinakis and Kyrgios off the ground proved too much in the big moments in their one-hour, 35-minute victory. Purcell saved the first championship point at 3-5 in the second set with a big serve out wide. Read Also | Australian Open: 'Where is Peng Shuai?' T-shirts handed out to fans at Melbourne Park But in the next game, Kyrgios held to love. The champions completed their victory when Kokkinakis punched a backhand volley through the middle of the court for a winner. Kokkinakis and Kyrgios are the first all-Australian men`s doubles champions at the Australian Open since Todd Woodbridge and Mark Woodforde triumphed in 1997.

Australian Open 2022: Nick Kyrgios, Thanasi Kokkinakis clinch men's doubles title

Activists handed out 1,000 "Where is Peng Shuai?" T-shirts to spectators ahead of the Australian Open women's final Saturday to highlight concern for the Chinese tennis star.

More than a week after security staff ordered activists inside the precinct to remove the shirts, the protesters returned with a thousand more to give to those arriving at Melbourne Park.

"We've handed out hundreds of T-shirts now for free and there's a lot of people going to the final wearing these shirts. They're excited," Drew Pavlou, one of the protest organisers, told AFP.

Pavlou said all the shirts had been handed to attendees as they filed into the park, in the hope of beaming the message onto screens around the world during the final.

Read Also |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashleigh-barty-beats-danielle-collins-to-end-44-year-long-wait-for-home-australian-open-champion-448730">&nbsp;Ashleigh Barty beats Danielle Collins to end 44-year-long wait for home Australian Open champion</a>

"We just want Peng Shuai to be able to speak freely. We want for her to be able to travel outside China and speak to the press without Chinese government minders controlling that."

But as the final began, the live broadcast's brief glimpses of the crowd offered little sign of the shirts — although several were spotted by an AFP photographer inside the Rod Laver Arena.

Peng, the former doubles world number one, is absent from Melbourne and there are fears for her wellbeing after she alleged online in November that she had been "forced" into sex by a Chinese former vice-premier during a years-long on-and-off relationship.

Her allegation was quickly censored and the 36-year-old was not heard from for nearly three weeks, before reappearing in public in China. But there are still concerns as to whether she is free.

Saturday's protest comes after the tournament chief Craig Tiley changed the competition's stance on "political" clothing -- deciding to allow the shirts inside as long as demonstrators remained peaceful.

Those who stopped to speak with Pavlou outside expressed concern for Peng's safety.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/21-or-22-rafael-nadal-daniil-medvedev-fight-for-history-in-australian-open-final-448687">21 or 2/2? Rafael Nadal, Daniil Medvedev fight for history in Australian Open final</a>

"No, I think if she was fine we would have seen her in person at possibly some tennis events," spectator Karen Gibson said.

In late December after Peng had reappeared in public, she denied making the allegation to Singaporean Chinese-language newspaper Lianhe Zaobao.

"I would like to stress a very important point: I have never said nor written anything accusing anyone of sexually assaulting me," the 35-year-old said in footage apparently filmed on a phone at a sports event in Shanghai.

However, the comments did not ease worries at the Women's Tennis Association, which has been widely praised for its stance on Peng, demanding to hear from her directly and suspending tournaments in China.

Leading players at the Australian Open have on several occasions said they still hope to hear from Peng so they can be assured of her safety.

Activists handed out 1,000 "Where is Peng Shuai?" T-shirts to spectators ahead of the Australian Open women's final Saturday to highlight concern for the Chinese tennis star.

Activists handed out 1,000 "Where is Peng Shuai?" T-shirts to spectators ahead of the Australian Open women's final Saturday to highlight concern for the Chinese tennis star. More than a week after security staff ordered activists inside the precinct to remove the shirts, the protesters returned with a thousand more to give to those arriving at Melbourne Park. "We've handed out hundreds of T-shirts now for free and there's a lot of people going to the final wearing these shirts. They're excited," Drew Pavlou, one of the protest organisers, told AFP. Pavlou said all the shirts had been handed to attendees as they filed into the park, in the hope of beaming the message onto screens around the world during the final. Read Also | Ashleigh Barty beats Danielle Collins to end 44-year-long wait for home Australian Open champion "We just want Peng Shuai to be able to speak freely. We want for her to be able to travel outside China and speak to the press without Chinese government minders controlling that." But as the final began, the live broadcast's brief glimpses of the crowd offered little sign of the shirts — although several were spotted by an AFP photographer inside the Rod Laver Arena. Peng, the former doubles world number one, is absent from Melbourne and there are fears for her wellbeing after she alleged online in November that she had been "forced" into sex by a Chinese former vice-premier during a years-long on-and-off relationship. Her allegation was quickly censored and the 36-year-old was not heard from for nearly three weeks, before reappearing in public in China. But there are still concerns as to whether she is free. Saturday's protest comes after the tournament chief Craig Tiley changed the competition's stance on "political" clothing -- deciding to allow the shirts inside as long as demonstrators remained peaceful. Those who stopped to speak with Pavlou outside expressed concern for Peng's safety. Read Also | 21 or 2/2? Rafael Nadal, Daniil Medvedev fight for history in Australian Open final "No, I think if she was fine we would have seen her in person at possibly some tennis events," spectator Karen Gibson said. In late December after Peng had reappeared in public, she denied making the allegation to Singaporean Chinese-language newspaper Lianhe Zaobao. "I would like to stress a very important point: I have never said nor written anything accusing anyone of sexually assaulting me," the 35-year-old said in footage apparently filmed on a phone at a sports event in Shanghai. However, the comments did not ease worries at the Women's Tennis Association, which has been widely praised for its stance on Peng, demanding to hear from her directly and suspending tournaments in China. Leading players at the Australian Open have on several occasions said they still hope to hear from Peng so they can be assured of her safety.

Australian Open: 'Where is Peng Shuai?' T-shirts handed out to fans at Melbourne Park

World No. 2 tennis player Daniil Medvedev has said he has faith in his capabilities, adding that there wasn`t any pressure on him ahead of the Australian Open title showdown against Spanish stalwart Rafael Nadal on Sunday.

Nadal is aiming to become the first player in history to win 21 singles Grand Slams and break a tie with Swiss ace Roger Federer and Serbian world No. 1 Novak Djokovic who all are currently on 20 majors each.

Medvedev booked his place in Sunday`s final with a 7-6(5), 4-6, 6-4, 6-1 victory over fourth-seeded Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas on Friday. The Russian is aiming to become the first male player to follow his maiden major crown with his second at the next Grand Slam event, after beating Novak Djokovic in the 2021 US Open final.

"I really don`t have much pressure. I know what I`m capable of when I`m playing well. I know that I can beat anybody," Medvedev was quoted as saying by atptour.com after the semifinal win. "The second round against (Australia`s) Nick (Kyrgios) was a tight one. But it gave me a lot of confidence in my own power, in my own tennis.

Read Also |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/21-or-22-rafael-nadal-daniil-medvedev-fight-for-history-in-australian-open-final-448687">&nbsp;21 or 2/2? Rafael Nadal, Daniil Medvedev fight for history in Australian Open final</a>

"I know (after the US Open) that I`m capable of winning seven matches in a row and the last one against Novak was epic. So, I knew before this tournament that it is possible. That is what I`m trying to prove."

This fortnight the 13-time tour-level titlist has edged Kyrgios, Maxime Cressy of the US and Tsitsipas in four sets, while he saved a match point en route to his five-set victory against Felix Auger-Aliassime of Canada in the quarterfinals. His two other wins here came against Switzerland`s Henri Laaksonen and Botic van de Zandschulp of the Netherlands.

It is a run the 25-year-old Medvedev has enjoyed as he aims to go one step further this year in Melbourne compared to a year ago, when he lost to Djokovic in the final.

"It`s been great (the run at the Australian Open). It`s definitely been emotional. It started with the match against Nick (Kyrgios), which was just emotional in all aspects. I think it started there and this energy kept on going with different ones in every match. Some matches were mad. The Felix match was just crazy in terms of tennis and the score. My matches with Stefanos are always emotional. It`s been a great run and I`m happy that I have the chance to win the title on Sunday."

The second seed will compete in his fourth major final when he plays Nadal on Sunday. It will be the second time the world No. 2 has faced the Spaniard in the final of a Grand Slam, after losing to him in a five-set thriller at the US Open in 2019.

Medvedev`s other two meetings at this stage of a major came against Djokovic.

"They are really strong," Medvedev said about the `Big 3` (Federer, Nadal and Djokovic). "It`s really tough to get into the final, and I always have them there waiting for me. But it`s fun. When I was eight or 10 years old I was playing against the wall and I was imagining that it was Rafa on the other side, or Roger (Federer). Novak was still not yet there.

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"Now I have the chance to play a second time (against Nadal). (The) first one was close, an epic one. I`m going to try to prepare well, and (I) need to show my best, because that`s what I took of the three finals that I played before, that you have to do better than 100 per cent in order to win."

On the challenge of facing Nadal, Medvedev added, "(It will probably be a) physical match. Rafa likes to drag people into long rallies. I like it too. I think it is going to be a great battle. But again, I remember last year`s final in Australia, even if it was against a different opponent. I`m going to try to be more ready, more focused, fighting more, and give it everything I have in terms of tennis, both physically and mentally."

World No. 2 tennis player Daniil Medvedev has said he has faith in his capabilities, adding that there wasn`t any pressure on him ahead of the Australian Open title showdown against Spanish stalwart Rafael Nadal on Sunday.

World No. 2 tennis player Daniil Medvedev has said he has faith in his capabilities, adding that there wasn`t any pressure on him ahead of the Australian Open title showdown against Spanish stalwart Rafael Nadal on Sunday. Nadal is aiming to become the first player in history to win 21 singles Grand Slams and break a tie with Swiss ace Roger Federer and Serbian world No. 1 Novak Djokovic who all are currently on 20 majors each. Medvedev booked his place in Sunday`s final with a 7-6(5), 4-6, 6-4, 6-1 victory over fourth-seeded Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas on Friday. The Russian is aiming to become the first male player to follow his maiden major crown with his second at the next Grand Slam event, after beating Novak Djokovic in the 2021 US Open final. "I really don`t have much pressure. I know what I`m capable of when I`m playing well. I know that I can beat anybody," Medvedev was quoted as saying by atptour.com after the semifinal win. "The second round against (Australia`s) Nick (Kyrgios) was a tight one. But it gave me a lot of confidence in my own power, in my own tennis. Read Also | 21 or 2/2? Rafael Nadal, Daniil Medvedev fight for history in Australian Open final "I know (after the US Open) that I`m capable of winning seven matches in a row and the last one against Novak was epic. So, I knew before this tournament that it is possible. That is what I`m trying to prove." This fortnight the 13-time tour-level titlist has edged Kyrgios, Maxime Cressy of the US and Tsitsipas in four sets, while he saved a match point en route to his five-set victory against Felix Auger-Aliassime of Canada in the quarterfinals. His two other wins here came against Switzerland`s Henri Laaksonen and Botic van de Zandschulp of the Netherlands. It is a run the 25-year-old Medvedev has enjoyed as he aims to go one step further this year in Melbourne compared to a year ago, when he lost to Djokovic in the final. "It`s been great (the run at the Australian Open). It`s definitely been emotional. It started with the match against Nick (Kyrgios), which was just emotional in all aspects. I think it started there and this energy kept on going with different ones in every match. Some matches were mad. The Felix match was just crazy in terms of tennis and the score. My matches with Stefanos are always emotional. It`s been a great run and I`m happy that I have the chance to win the title on Sunday." The second seed will compete in his fourth major final when he plays Nadal on Sunday. It will be the second time the world No. 2 has faced the Spaniard in the final of a Grand Slam, after losing to him in a five-set thriller at the US Open in 2019. Medvedev`s other two meetings at this stage of a major came against Djokovic. "They are really strong," Medvedev said about the `Big 3` (Federer, Nadal and Djokovic). "It`s really tough to get into the final, and I always have them there waiting for me. But it`s fun. When I was eight or 10 years old I was playing against the wall and I was imagining that it was Rafa on the other side, or Roger (Federer). Novak was still not yet there. Read Also | 'I don't feel safe': Emma Raducanu terrified by stalker who visited her home thrice, stole her father's shoe "Now I have the chance to play a second time (against Nadal). (The) first one was close, an epic one. I`m going to try to prepare well, and (I) need to show my best, because that`s what I took of the three finals that I played before, that you have to do better than 100 per cent in order to win." On the challenge of facing Nadal, Medvedev added, "(It will probably be a) physical match. Rafa likes to drag people into long rallies. I like it too. I think it is going to be a great battle. But again, I remember last year`s final in Australia, even if it was against a different opponent. I`m going to try to be more ready, more focused, fighting more, and give it everything I have in terms of tennis, both physically and mentally."

Have faith in my capabilities; there is no pressure ahead of Australian Open final against Nadal: Medvedev

Ashleigh Barty lived up to the home favourite tag at the Australian Open 2022 as she became the first Australian to win the home Open after a long wait of 44 years on Saturday (January 29). Barty defeated 27th seeded American Danielle Collins 6-3, 7-6(2) at Melbourne Park in the final to lift the women's singles trophy. It was a dominant performance from Barty, who came back from 5-1 down in the second set to win the final in straight sets.

The Australian remained in brilliant form throughout the tournament and got the better of the likes of Jessica Pegula and Madison Keys to enter the final of the Australian Open 2022. Despite being burdened by history in the final clash, Barty was up for the challenge and dominated the proceedings in the first set. She won the first set comfortably by 6-3 after forcing Collins into errors.

However, Collins made a superb comeback in the second set and showcased why she has been deemed as one of the future superstars of the game by attaining a 5-1 lead. Barty, who hadn't dropped a set in the tournament, was on the verge of losing her perfect record. The Australian fought back and went on to win the tie-break to clinch the second set 7-6(2) to secure the women's singles crown.

Barty managed to keep her perfect record of not dropping a set at the Australian Open 2022 intact as she became the first Australian after&nbsp;Chris O’Neil (1978) to become a home champion at the Aus Open. This is the third Grand Slam title for Barty, who had won the Wimbledon title last year and the French Open crown in 2019.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/rafael-nadal-on-cusp-of-historic-21st-grand-slam-a-look-at-his-journey-in-australian-open-2022-so-far-448534">Rafael Nadal on cusp of historic 21st Grand Slam: A look at his journey in Australian Open 2022 so far</a>

Collins, 28, was playing his first Grand Slam final but showcases incredible composure against a seasoned campaigner in Barty. She almost took the second set away from the Australian before a raging fightback. Collins is set to make it to the top ten rankings for the first time after her best-ever run in a Grand Slam.

“It’s been one of my favourite experiences. You guys have been nothing short of exceptional. You relaxed me and forced me to play my best tennis," said Barty thanking the crowd after her memorable victory.

“This is just a dream come true. I’m so proud to be an Aussie," she added.

Ashleigh Barty lived up to the home favourite tag at the Australian Open 2022 as she became the first Australian to win the home Open after a long wait of 44 years on Saturday (January 29).

Ashleigh Barty lived up to the home favourite tag at the Australian Open 2022 as she became the first Australian to win the home Open after a long wait of 44 years on Saturday (January 29). Barty defeated 27th seeded American Danielle Collins 6-3, 7-6(2) at Melbourne Park in the final to lift the women's singles trophy. It was a dominant performance from Barty, who came back from 5-1 down in the second set to win the final in straight sets. The Australian remained in brilliant form throughout the tournament and got the better of the likes of Jessica Pegula and Madison Keys to enter the final of the Australian Open 2022. Despite being burdened by history in the final clash, Barty was up for the challenge and dominated the proceedings in the first set. She won the first set comfortably by 6-3 after forcing Collins into errors. However, Collins made a superb comeback in the second set and showcased why she has been deemed as one of the future superstars of the game by attaining a 5-1 lead. Barty, who hadn't dropped a set in the tournament, was on the verge of losing her perfect record. The Australian fought back and went on to win the tie-break to clinch the second set 7-6(2) to secure the women's singles crown. Barty managed to keep her perfect record of not dropping a set at the Australian Open 2022 intact as she became the first Australian after Chris O’Neil (1978) to become a home champion at the Aus Open. This is the third Grand Slam title for Barty, who had won the Wimbledon title last year and the French Open crown in 2019. Also Read: Rafael Nadal on cusp of historic 21st Grand Slam: A look at his journey in Australian Open 2022 so far Collins, 28, was playing his first Grand Slam final but showcases incredible composure against a seasoned campaigner in Barty. She almost took the second set away from the Australian before a raging fightback. Collins is set to make it to the top ten rankings for the first time after her best-ever run in a Grand Slam. “It’s been one of my favourite experiences. You guys have been nothing short of exceptional. You relaxed me and forced me to play my best tennis," said Barty thanking the crowd after her memorable victory. “This is just a dream come true. I’m so proud to be an Aussie," she added.

Ashleigh Barty beats Danielle Collins to end 44-year-long wait for home Australian Open champion

Since Wimbledon ended last July, there's been so much discussion in tennis about the first man to win 21 Grand Slam titles. 
The focus has been almost entirely on Novak Djokovic's bid; almost none of it on Rafael Nadal.

With the first Grand Slam title of 2022 to be determined Sunday, it's Nadal who is just one win away. 
He'll play the Australian Open final against U.S. Open champion Daniil Medvedev, who is aiming for back-to-back major titles and his own, albeit smaller, piece of history.

So long in the making, so many months off the tour for Nadal, and so much drama around Djokovic's deportation the night before his Australian Open title defense was due to begin, makes the race for 21 so much more compelling. 
Nadal, only last month, wasn't even sure if he'd get to Australia after long hours of frustrating and intensive rehabilitation on his foot injury that can never be fully fixed, and a bout of COVID-19. 
"For me, it's all about the Australian Open more than anything else", Nadal said.

Being very honest, for me its much more important to have the chance to play tennis than win the 21, no 
Nadal is tied for the record, 20, with the absent Djokovic ? a nine-time Australian Open champion who had his visa revoked for failing to meet the country's strict COVID-19 requirements ? and Roger Federer, who still recovering from right knee surgery.

Nadal moved to 20 with his French Open title in 2020. Federer, now 40, has been stuck on 20 since winning the 2018 Australian title. Djokovic moved from 17 to 20 with titles in Australia, Roland Garros and Wimbledon in 2021. He was one win victory from making it to 21 ? and completing a calendar-year Grand Slam until he lost to Medvedev in the U.S. Open final.

Read Also |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-open-how-can-you-be-so-bad-daniil-medvedev-slams-chair-umpire-during-stefanos-tsitsipas-face-off-watch-448585">&nbsp;Aus Open: How can you be so bad? Daniil Medvedev slams chair umpire during Stefanos Tsitsipas face-off - Watch</a>

Yeah, I'm going to play again against one of the greatest. And what's funny, again, I'm going to play somebody going for their 21st Slam,&nbsp;Medvedev said in an on-court TV interview after his heated semifinal win over Stefanos Tsitsipas. 
I guess Rafa was watching (the U.S. Open final) near the TV . . . I don't know who he was cheering for. I think Novak will be watching this one, also!"

Medvedev lost to Nadal in five sets in the 2019 U.S. Open final ? his first at a Grand Slam ? and lost to Djokovic in straight sets in the 2021 Australian Open final, before beating the Serbian star in straight sets at New York in September.

Any debate about which of the Big Three players will be considered the greatest of all isn't a concern for him. 
?It's great rivalry between them,? Medvedev said. "I'll be honest . . . It's not me going for the 21st, not me trying to break these records. I'm going for my second one.

I know what Rafa is going for, I knew what Novak was going for. I'm not going to say Oh, yeah, I am trying not to listen about this.' But it's kind of their thing, not mine. I'm just there to try to win the final."

Nadal is also trying to block out all the noise. He's said more than once that this Australian Open is his primary focus, and his life's work and meaning ultimately won't be overshadowed by who finishes up with the most major titles.

He hasn't changed anything about his ultra competitiveness on the court which, he says, is embedded in his DNA. But he's more conscious now of being grateful for being&nbsp;&nbsp;back on tour after times when he thought a foot problem might prematurely end his tennis career.

Because that's makes me more happy in terms of general life .. To be able to do the thing that I like to do more than achieving another Grand Slam,&nbsp;he said.

Read Also |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/djokovic-will-be-watching-the-australian-open-final-says-medvedev-after-booking-clash-with-nadal-448549">&nbsp;Djokovic will be watching the Australian Open final, says Medvedev after booking clash with Nadal</a>

Life, it's about happiness and what make me happy. It's about just having the chance to do what I like to do. 
Medvedev had an angry outburst at a chair umpire during a changeover in the semifinals, and then recovered his composure to beat Tsitispas.

He described as emotional" his run in Australia, which included dealing with a hostile crowd in his second-round win over Nick Kyrgios, and having to save a match point and rally from two sets down to beat Felix Auger-Aliassime in a nearly five-hour quarterfinal.

After defeating Denis Shapovalov in a long quarterfinal, Nadal had a comparatively stress-free 6-3, 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 win over seventh-seeded Matteo Berrettini, who lost the Wimbledon final to Djokovic last year. Nadal skipped Wimbledon after losing to Djokovic in the French Open semifinals, and he didn't play at all after August.

Nadal even shed tears after confirming a spot in a Grand Slam final for the 29th time. 
Since winning the title here in 2009, he lost in classic five-set finals to Djokovic in '12 and Federer five years later. His other losses were to Stan Wawrinka (2014) and Djokovic (2019).

I have been a little unlucky (here) in my career with some injuries (and) I played some amazing finals with good chances," he said. 
"I feel very lucky that I won once. I never thought about another chance in 2022.

Since Wimbledon ended last July, there's been so much discussion in tennis about the first man to win 21 Grand Slam titles. The focus has been almost entirely on Novak Djokovic's bid; almost none of it on Rafael Nadal.

Since Wimbledon ended last July, there's been so much discussion in tennis about the first man to win 21 Grand Slam titles. The focus has been almost entirely on Novak Djokovic's bid; almost none of it on Rafael Nadal. With the first Grand Slam title of 2022 to be determined Sunday, it's Nadal who is just one win away. He'll play the Australian Open final against U.S. Open champion Daniil Medvedev, who is aiming for back-to-back major titles and his own, albeit smaller, piece of history. So long in the making, so many months off the tour for Nadal, and so much drama around Djokovic's deportation the night before his Australian Open title defense was due to begin, makes the race for 21 so much more compelling. Nadal, only last month, wasn't even sure if he'd get to Australia after long hours of frustrating and intensive rehabilitation on his foot injury that can never be fully fixed, and a bout of COVID-19. "For me, it's all about the Australian Open more than anything else", Nadal said. Being very honest, for me its much more important to have the chance to play tennis than win the 21, no Nadal is tied for the record, 20, with the absent Djokovic ? a nine-time Australian Open champion who had his visa revoked for failing to meet the country's strict COVID-19 requirements ? and Roger Federer, who still recovering from right knee surgery. Nadal moved to 20 with his French Open title in 2020. Federer, now 40, has been stuck on 20 since winning the 2018 Australian title. Djokovic moved from 17 to 20 with titles in Australia, Roland Garros and Wimbledon in 2021. He was one win victory from making it to 21 ? and completing a calendar-year Grand Slam until he lost to Medvedev in the U.S. Open final. Read Also | Aus Open: How can you be so bad? Daniil Medvedev slams chair umpire during Stefanos Tsitsipas face-off - Watch Yeah, I'm going to play again against one of the greatest. And what's funny, again, I'm going to play somebody going for their 21st Slam, Medvedev said in an on-court TV interview after his heated semifinal win over Stefanos Tsitsipas. I guess Rafa was watching (the U.S. Open final) near the TV . . . I don't know who he was cheering for. I think Novak will be watching this one, also!" Medvedev lost to Nadal in five sets in the 2019 U.S. Open final ? his first at a Grand Slam ? and lost to Djokovic in straight sets in the 2021 Australian Open final, before beating the Serbian star in straight sets at New York in September. Any debate about which of the Big Three players will be considered the greatest of all isn't a concern for him. ?It's great rivalry between them,? Medvedev said. "I'll be honest . . . It's not me going for the 21st, not me trying to break these records. I'm going for my second one. I know what Rafa is going for, I knew what Novak was going for. I'm not going to say Oh, yeah, I am trying not to listen about this.' But it's kind of their thing, not mine. I'm just there to try to win the final." Nadal is also trying to block out all the noise. He's said more than once that this Australian Open is his primary focus, and his life's work and meaning ultimately won't be overshadowed by who finishes up with the most major titles. He hasn't changed anything about his ultra competitiveness on the court which, he says, is embedded in his DNA. But he's more conscious now of being grateful for being back on tour after times when he thought a foot problem might prematurely end his tennis career. Because that's makes me more happy in terms of general life .. To be able to do the thing that I like to do more than achieving another Grand Slam, he said. Read Also | Djokovic will be watching the Australian Open final, says Medvedev after booking clash with Nadal Life, it's about happiness and what make me happy. It's about just having the chance to do what I like to do. Medvedev had an angry outburst at a chair umpire during a changeover in the semifinals, and then recovered his composure to beat Tsitispas. He described as emotional" his run in Australia, which included dealing with a hostile crowd in his second-round win over Nick Kyrgios, and having to save a match point and rally from two sets down to beat Felix Auger-Aliassime in a nearly five-hour quarterfinal. After defeating Denis Shapovalov in a long quarterfinal, Nadal had a comparatively stress-free 6-3, 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 win over seventh-seeded Matteo Berrettini, who lost the Wimbledon final to Djokovic last year. Nadal skipped Wimbledon after losing to Djokovic in the French Open semifinals, and he didn't play at all after August. Nadal even shed tears after confirming a spot in a Grand Slam final for the 29th time. Since winning the title here in 2009, he lost in classic five-set finals to Djokovic in '12 and Federer five years later. His other losses were to Stan Wawrinka (2014) and Djokovic (2019). I have been a little unlucky (here) in my career with some injuries (and) I played some amazing finals with good chances," he said. "I feel very lucky that I won once. I never thought about another chance in 2022.

21 or 2/2? Rafael Nadal, Daniil Medvedev fight for history in Australian Open final

Rafael Nadal stands just one step away from creating history after defeating Matteo Berrettini in the semi-final of the Australian Open 2022 on Friday (January 28). The Spaniard has been in sensational form so far in the tournament and is eyeing a historic major title Down Under. Nadal defeated Berrettini 6-3 6-2 3-6 6-3 in what was a hard-fought semi-final encounter at the Rod Laver Arena.

Nadal got off to a brilliant start in the semi-final, taking the first set 6-3 against the big Italian before clinching the second set 6-2 in a dominant fashion. The Spaniard ended up making a double fault in the third set, his first of the day as Berrettini eventually managed to catch up.

Berrettini managed to turn a corner in the third set as he took three straight set points to bounce back and take the third set 6-3. However, Nadal's experience and his exceptional skills helped him turn the game in his favour in the final fourth set as he&nbsp;secured a place in the final.

Nadal, who is currently tied on 20 singles Grand Slam titles with rivals Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic, can move past the duo when he takes on the winner of the second semi-final between Daniil Medvedev and Stefanos Tsitsipas.

Nadal has made it to the final of the Australian Open five times so far in his career and his only triumph came in 2009 when he got the better of arch-rival Federer. Nadal has lost in his last four appearances at the Australian Open final and will be hoping to set the record straight this time around.

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Nadal is aware of his final losses in the last four appearances but is grateful to have made it to yet another summit clash where he is aiming to give his best and go past rivals Federer and Djokovic, who are both not part of this year's Australian Open due to different reasons.

“For me, it’s all about the Australian Open more than anything else. It is just an amazing event that as I said a couple of days ago now, I have been a little bit lucky in my career with some injuries. At times I play good finals against Novak in 2012and Roger in 2017. I was lucky to win once in 2009 but I never thought about another chance&nbsp;in 2022. Just enjoy the victory today and after that try my best," said Nadal after his semi-final victory over &nbsp;Berrettini on Friday.

Rafael Nadal stands just one step away from creating history after defeating Matteo Berrettini in the semi-final of the Australian Open 2022 on Friday (January 28).

Rafael Nadal stands just one step away from creating history after defeating Matteo Berrettini in the semi-final of the Australian Open 2022 on Friday (January 28). The Spaniard has been in sensational form so far in the tournament and is eyeing a historic major title Down Under. Nadal defeated Berrettini 6-3 6-2 3-6 6-3 in what was a hard-fought semi-final encounter at the Rod Laver Arena. Nadal got off to a brilliant start in the semi-final, taking the first set 6-3 against the big Italian before clinching the second set 6-2 in a dominant fashion. The Spaniard ended up making a double fault in the third set, his first of the day as Berrettini eventually managed to catch up. Berrettini managed to turn a corner in the third set as he took three straight set points to bounce back and take the third set 6-3. However, Nadal's experience and his exceptional skills helped him turn the game in his favour in the final fourth set as he secured a place in the final. Nadal, who is currently tied on 20 singles Grand Slam titles with rivals Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic, can move past the duo when he takes on the winner of the second semi-final between Daniil Medvedev and Stefanos Tsitsipas. Nadal has made it to the final of the Australian Open five times so far in his career and his only triumph came in 2009 when he got the better of arch-rival Federer. Nadal has lost in his last four appearances at the Australian Open final and will be hoping to set the record straight this time around. Also Read: Novak Djokovic set to return next month in Dubai ATP 500 tournament after Aus Open saga Nadal is aware of his final losses in the last four appearances but is grateful to have made it to yet another summit clash where he is aiming to give his best and go past rivals Federer and Djokovic, who are both not part of this year's Australian Open due to different reasons. “For me, it’s all about the Australian Open more than anything else. It is just an amazing event that as I said a couple of days ago now, I have been a little bit lucky in my career with some injuries. At times I play good finals against Novak in 2012and Roger in 2017. I was lucky to win once in 2009 but I never thought about another chance in 2022. Just enjoy the victory today and after that try my best," said Nadal after his semi-final victory over Berrettini on Friday.

Rafael Nadal beats Matteo Berrettini to enter Australian Open final, closes in on record 21st Grand Slam

On Friday (January 28), the two semi-finals of the men's singles took place in the Australian Open, in Melbourne. While Rafael Nadal beat Italy's Matteo Berrettini in four sets, Russia's Daniil Medvedev went past Greek player Stefanos Tsitsipas to setup a riveting final face-off with the Spaniard.&nbsp;

Medvedev produced a near flawless performance versus Tsitsipas, winning 7-6(5), 4-6, 6-4, 6-1 in a high-quality match. While the Russian was challenged by the runners-up of the last year's French Open, the 2021's US Open champion Medvedev had all the answers against Tsitsipas to proceed to the finale.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-open-daniil-medvedev-takes-down-stefanos-tsitsipas-sets-up-final-clash-vs-rafael-nadal-448437">Aus Open: Daniil Medvedev takes down Stefanos Tsitsipas, sets up final clash vs Rafael Nadal</a>

During the clash, Tsitsipas was receiving coaching instructions at regular intervals from his father, who was present in the stand. Thus, this&nbsp;irked Medvedev. The Russian&nbsp;lost his cool and fumed at the chair umpire. In a video shared on social media platform Twitter, Medvedev can be heard saying, "His father can talk about every point. Are you stupid? His father can talk about every point. Answer my question. Can his father talk about every point?"

“Oh my God, how can you be so bad in the semifinal of a Grand Slam? Look at me! I’m talking to you!"&nbsp;said Medvedev. At this point, the umpire Jaume Campistol intervened and responded by asking, "What do you want?”&nbsp;

Medvedev continued saying, "To give him coaching [violation] because his father is talking every point.&nbsp;“Do you understand Greek? Next time it should be a code violation because he’s speaking Greek. If you don’t, you are a - how can I call it - small cat.” Here's the video of Medvedev's rant:

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/djokovic-will-be-watching-the-australian-open-final-says-medvedev-after-booking-clash-with-nadal-448549">Djokovic will be watching the Australian Open final, says Medvedev after booking clash with Nadal</a>

Medvedev will now gear up to face Nadal in the summit clash. He had earlier denied World No. 1 player Novak Djokovic from winning a record 21 Grand Slam titles during the US Open final last year. This time around, the Russian will be eager to stop Nadal from setting an all-time record of 21 Grand Slam titles. At present, Nadal, Djokovic and Roger Federer remain tied at 20 Grand Slam titles each.

On Friday (January 28), the two semi-finals of the men's singles took place in the Australian Open, in Melbourne. While Rafael Nadal beat Italy's Matteo Berrettini in four sets, Russia's Daniil Medvedev went past Greek player Stefanos Tsitsipas to setup a riveting final face-off with the Spaniard.

On Friday (January 28), the two semi-finals of the men's singles took place in the Australian Open, in Melbourne. While Rafael Nadal beat Italy's Matteo Berrettini in four sets, Russia's Daniil Medvedev went past Greek player Stefanos Tsitsipas to setup a riveting final face-off with the Spaniard. Medvedev produced a near flawless performance versus Tsitsipas, winning 7-6(5), 4-6, 6-4, 6-1 in a high-quality match. While the Russian was challenged by the runners-up of the last year's French Open, the 2021's US Open champion Medvedev had all the answers against Tsitsipas to proceed to the finale. ALSO READ | Aus Open: Daniil Medvedev takes down Stefanos Tsitsipas, sets up final clash vs Rafael Nadal During the clash, Tsitsipas was receiving coaching instructions at regular intervals from his father, who was present in the stand. Thus, this irked Medvedev. The Russian lost his cool and fumed at the chair umpire. In a video shared on social media platform Twitter, Medvedev can be heard saying, "His father can talk about every point. Are you stupid? His father can talk about every point. Answer my question. Can his father talk about every point?" “Oh my God, how can you be so bad in the semifinal of a Grand Slam? Look at me! I’m talking to you!" said Medvedev. At this point, the umpire Jaume Campistol intervened and responded by asking, "What do you want?” Medvedev continued saying, "To give him coaching [violation] because his father is talking every point. “Do you understand Greek? Next time it should be a code violation because he’s speaking Greek. If you don’t, you are a - how can I call it - small cat.” Here's the video of Medvedev's rant: pic.twitter.com/JTXFQYM6Rt — ‎‎‎‎‎ tennis gifs media acc (@tennisgifsmedia) January 28, 2022 × "If you don't call it, you are a small cat?" "Medvedev vs Tsitsipas pic.twitter.com/WS7yPXJGtb — Llama Says☄🌠🚀 (@funnyzeitgist) January 28, 2022 × ALSO READ | Djokovic will be watching the Australian Open final, says Medvedev after booking clash with Nadal Medvedev will now gear up to face Nadal in the summit clash. He had earlier denied World No. 1 player Novak Djokovic from winning a record 21 Grand Slam titles during the US Open final last year. This time around, the Russian will be eager to stop Nadal from setting an all-time record of 21 Grand Slam titles. At present, Nadal, Djokovic and Roger Federer remain tied at 20 Grand Slam titles each.

Aus Open: How can you be so bad? Daniil Medvedev slams chair umpire during Stefanos Tsitsipas face-off - Watch

The world number two Daniil Medvedev on Friday quipped that Novak Djokovic will be watching Sunday`s Australian Open final as the Russian takes on Rafael Nadal in the summit clash.

The 20-time Grand Slam champion Spaniard is now one match away from becoming the greatest major champion in history after defeating Matteo Berrettini in the first men`s semi-final of AO 2022.

In the other semi-final at Rod Laver Arena, the second seed Medvedev demonstrated a mixture of quality and grit under the lights on Rod Laver Arena, overcoming fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas 7-6(5), 4-6, 6-4, 6-1 in a high-quality match to set up a final showdown against Nadal.

Medvedev lost his first Grand Slam final to Rafa Nadal in the 2019 US Open final before beating Djokovic in the 2021 US Open final. Notably, the Serbian was also chasing the record 21st Grand Slam in that final against Medvedev.

"I am going to play again against one of the greatest. What is funny is that I`m going to play again someone who`s going for the 21st Grand Slam. I guess last time Rafa was watching the TV, I don`t know who he was cheering for but I think Novak will be watching this one also," Medvedev said during his on-court interview.

Medvedev showed various emotions during his semi-final victory, talking about that he said: "To be honest, I don`t think the emotions helped me to win this match. Many times in the past I have lost a match because of this. I lost too much energy. As soon as I did it, it was a big mistake. I lost some energy and I had to refocus. I tried my best and I am glad it worked."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/rafael-nadal-on-cusp-of-historic-21st-grand-slam-a-look-at-his-journey-in-australian-open-2022-so-far-448534">Rafael Nadal on cusp of historic 21st Grand Slam: A look at his journey in Australian Open 2022 so far</a>

About his semi-final match, the Russian said: "Some matches are very even. I missed some balls at a few moments where I could have got a break and he missed a few at the start of the third set. Then from 5-4 in the third [set] I just found some momentum and started to read his serve and put every ball in. I hit some very important passing shots and his energy went down because of this and my energy went up."

"Grand Slam finals are special and I can remember the final against Rafa at the [2019] US Open. It was my first final and we played for about five hours. We have played a few matches since then and I am ready," the world number two added.

The world number two Daniil Medvedev on Friday quipped that Novak Djokovic will be watching Sunday`s Australian Open final as the Russian takes on Rafael Nadal in the summit clash.

The world number two Daniil Medvedev on Friday quipped that Novak Djokovic will be watching Sunday`s Australian Open final as the Russian takes on Rafael Nadal in the summit clash. The 20-time Grand Slam champion Spaniard is now one match away from becoming the greatest major champion in history after defeating Matteo Berrettini in the first men`s semi-final of AO 2022. In the other semi-final at Rod Laver Arena, the second seed Medvedev demonstrated a mixture of quality and grit under the lights on Rod Laver Arena, overcoming fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas 7-6(5), 4-6, 6-4, 6-1 in a high-quality match to set up a final showdown against Nadal. Medvedev lost his first Grand Slam final to Rafa Nadal in the 2019 US Open final before beating Djokovic in the 2021 US Open final. Notably, the Serbian was also chasing the record 21st Grand Slam in that final against Medvedev. "I am going to play again against one of the greatest. What is funny is that I`m going to play again someone who`s going for the 21st Grand Slam. I guess last time Rafa was watching the TV, I don`t know who he was cheering for but I think Novak will be watching this one also," Medvedev said during his on-court interview. Medvedev showed various emotions during his semi-final victory, talking about that he said: "To be honest, I don`t think the emotions helped me to win this match. Many times in the past I have lost a match because of this. I lost too much energy. As soon as I did it, it was a big mistake. I lost some energy and I had to refocus. I tried my best and I am glad it worked." Also Read: Rafael Nadal on cusp of historic 21st Grand Slam: A look at his journey in Australian Open 2022 so far About his semi-final match, the Russian said: "Some matches are very even. I missed some balls at a few moments where I could have got a break and he missed a few at the start of the third set. Then from 5-4 in the third [set] I just found some momentum and started to read his serve and put every ball in. I hit some very important passing shots and his energy went down because of this and my energy went up." "Grand Slam finals are special and I can remember the final against Rafa at the [2019] US Open. It was my first final and we played for about five hours. We have played a few matches since then and I am ready," the world number two added.

Djokovic will be watching the Australian Open final, says Medvedev after booking clash with Nadal

On Friday (January 28), the two men's singles semi-finals of the Australian Open will be held in Melbourne. While Rafael Nadal will take on Italy's Matteo Berretini in the first semi-final, Greek player Stefanos Tsitsipas will lock horns with Daniil Medvedev in the second semi-final later in the day. The stage is set for a riveting end to the first Grand Slam of the year with all four semi-finalists looking in fine form to walk away with the title.

Speaking of Nadal, he is the most experienced of the lot and will leave no stone unturned to become the first-ever male tennis player to reach to 21 Grand Slam titles. His closest rivals Roger Federer and World No. 1 Novak Djokovic are also on 20 major titles each, however, the Swiss maestro didn't participate in the mega event Down Under whereas Djokovic's Covid-19 vaccination issue forced him to be deported ahead of the marquee tournament in Melbourne.

Hence, Nadal will not leave this golden opportunity to get to the magical 21 Grand Slam titles. Nonetheless, he has a new rival standing in his way before the final. Italy's Berretini isn't a pushover by any means and will give a tough fight to the Spaniard for a place in the summit clash. Both the semi-finalists are heading into the last four by fighting it hard in the quarters. While the Italian emerged on top of&nbsp;Gael Monfils in the quarters, in a five-set thriller, Nadal also didn't have it easy versus Denis Shapovalov to win, 6-3, 6-4, 4-6, 3-6, 6-4.

Similarly, Russian player Medvedev was also involved in a humdinger of a quarter-final whereas Tsitsipas had it easy versus Jannik Sinner; winning in straight sets.

Ahead of the two semis, WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo had a quick interaction with Indian tennis coach Nandan Bal. The veteran coach shared his take on two semi-finals. Beginning with Nadal-Berretini clash, Nandan said, "With Djokovic and Roger both not playing, Nadal is the only one from the Big Three. That being said, hats off to him and his fitness to be still trying hard and competing in the semis. Only difference is that he is surrounded by bunch of guys who are less than 25.&nbsp;The quality of tennis (in the men's quarters) has been top-notch. These three young guys will be there for long. They are so full of promise. These players -- such as Medvedev, Tsitsipas,&nbsp;Berretini and the likes -- should be the nucleus for the next ten years."

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ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-set-to-return-next-month-in-dubai-atp-500-tournament-after-aus-open-saga-448157">Novak Djokovic set to return next month in Dubai ATP 500 tournament after Aus Open saga</a>

On the first semis, Nandan picked the Italian as the one who will have the edge. He said, "First of all, on paper without Nadal is the favourite. However, I have my reservations on that. Berretini is ten years younger. He has got the legs. Also, when was the last time we saw Nadal lose two sets on the trot after leading by two? For him to lose that third or fourth set, it was an indication that the age is catching up, fitness or his mind is also catching up. Somebody like a Berretini is got to keep pushing Nadal. Two back-to-back five-sets will be a huge challenge for Nadal."

Shifting his focus to the second semis, Nandan pointed out, "At this point of time, Medvedev is the favourite. He was out of form but yet found his way to come back and win the quarters (winning a five-set thriller versus Felix Auger Aliassime). Once he got the momentum, he took off and won. Champions know how to work their way. Till they get their rhythm back, they will keep fighting hard and once they do, they do not give others any chance. "&nbsp;

The 62-year-old Nandan Bal added, "Medvedev has come across so mentally tough. I think Tsitsipas is going to have the crowd on his side following Medvedev's recent press. But like I said, Medvedev is the next toughest guy after Novak Djokovic."

On Friday (January 28), the two men's singles semi-finals of the Australian Open will be held in Melbourne. While Rafael Nadal will take on Italy's Matteo Berretini in the first semi-final, Greek player Stefanos Tsitsipas will lock horns with Daniil Medvedev in the second semi-final later in the day.

On Friday (January 28), the two men's singles semi-finals of the Australian Open will be held in Melbourne. While Rafael Nadal will take on Italy's Matteo Berretini in the first semi-final, Greek player Stefanos Tsitsipas will lock horns with Daniil Medvedev in the second semi-final later in the day. The stage is set for a riveting end to the first Grand Slam of the year with all four semi-finalists looking in fine form to walk away with the title. Speaking of Nadal, he is the most experienced of the lot and will leave no stone unturned to become the first-ever male tennis player to reach to 21 Grand Slam titles. His closest rivals Roger Federer and World No. 1 Novak Djokovic are also on 20 major titles each, however, the Swiss maestro didn't participate in the mega event Down Under whereas Djokovic's Covid-19 vaccination issue forced him to be deported ahead of the marquee tournament in Melbourne. Hence, Nadal will not leave this golden opportunity to get to the magical 21 Grand Slam titles. Nonetheless, he has a new rival standing in his way before the final. Italy's Berretini isn't a pushover by any means and will give a tough fight to the Spaniard for a place in the summit clash. Both the semi-finalists are heading into the last four by fighting it hard in the quarters. While the Italian emerged on top of Gael Monfils in the quarters, in a five-set thriller, Nadal also didn't have it easy versus Denis Shapovalov to win, 6-3, 6-4, 4-6, 3-6, 6-4. Similarly, Russian player Medvedev was also involved in a humdinger of a quarter-final whereas Tsitsipas had it easy versus Jannik Sinner; winning in straight sets. Ahead of the two semis, WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo had a quick interaction with Indian tennis coach Nandan Bal. The veteran coach shared his take on two semi-finals. Beginning with Nadal-Berretini clash, Nandan said, "With Djokovic and Roger both not playing, Nadal is the only one from the Big Three. That being said, hats off to him and his fitness to be still trying hard and competing in the semis. Only difference is that he is surrounded by bunch of guys who are less than 25. The quality of tennis (in the men's quarters) has been top-notch. These three young guys will be there for long. They are so full of promise. These players -- such as Medvedev, Tsitsipas, Berretini and the likes -- should be the nucleus for the next ten years." × ALSO READ | Novak Djokovic set to return next month in Dubai ATP 500 tournament after Aus Open saga On the first semis, Nandan picked the Italian as the one who will have the edge. He said, "First of all, on paper without Nadal is the favourite. However, I have my reservations on that. Berretini is ten years younger. He has got the legs. Also, when was the last time we saw Nadal lose two sets on the trot after leading by two? For him to lose that third or fourth set, it was an indication that the age is catching up, fitness or his mind is also catching up. Somebody like a Berretini is got to keep pushing Nadal. Two back-to-back five-sets will be a huge challenge for Nadal." Shifting his focus to the second semis, Nandan pointed out, "At this point of time, Medvedev is the favourite. He was out of form but yet found his way to come back and win the quarters (winning a five-set thriller versus Felix Auger Aliassime). Once he got the momentum, he took off and won. Champions know how to work their way. Till they get their rhythm back, they will keep fighting hard and once they do, they do not give others any chance. " The 62-year-old Nandan Bal added, "Medvedev has come across so mentally tough. I think Tsitsipas is going to have the crowd on his side following Medvedev's recent press. But like I said, Medvedev is the next toughest guy after Novak Djokovic."

EXCLUSIVE | Nandan Bal opines on Aus Open men's singles' semi-final fixtures, hints at mega event's winner

Daniil Medvedev will play Rafa Nadal for the Australian Open title on Sunday after a stirring victory over Greek fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in the semi-final on Friday. The Russian world number two reached the Australian Open decider for the second year in succession by defeating Tsitsipas 7-6(5) 4-6 6-4 6-1. Should Medvedev defeat the Spanish great, he will become the first man in the Open era to win his first two Grand Slam titles in succession after his triumph in New York last September.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-beats-matteo-berrettini-to-enter-australian-open-final-closes-in-on-record-21st-grand-slam-448328">Rafael Nadal beats Matteo Berrettini to enter Australian Open final, closes in on record 21st Grand Slam</a>

The Russian denied Novak Djokovic the calendar Grand Slam in the U.S. Open final and will now seek to stop Nadal from setting an all-time men`s record of 21 Grand Slam titles.

Daniil Medvedev will play Rafa Nadal for the Australian Open title on Sunday after a stirring victory over Greek fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in the semi-final on Friday.

Daniil Medvedev will play Rafa Nadal for the Australian Open title on Sunday after a stirring victory over Greek fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in the semi-final on Friday. The Russian world number two reached the Australian Open decider for the second year in succession by defeating Tsitsipas 7-6(5) 4-6 6-4 6-1. Should Medvedev defeat the Spanish great, he will become the first man in the Open era to win his first two Grand Slam titles in succession after his triumph in New York last September. ALSO READ | Rafael Nadal beats Matteo Berrettini to enter Australian Open final, closes in on record 21st Grand Slam The Russian denied Novak Djokovic the calendar Grand Slam in the U.S. Open final and will now seek to stop Nadal from setting an all-time men`s record of 21 Grand Slam titles.

Aus Open: Daniil Medvedev takes down Stefanos Tsitsipas, sets up final clash vs Rafael Nadal

France`s Kristina Mladenovic and Croatian Ivan Dodig swept to a 6-3 6-4 victory against local duo Jaimee Fourlis and Jason Kubler to claim the Australian Open mixed doubles crown at Melbourne Park on Friday.

Playing under a closed roof on Rod Laver Arena due to rain, Mladenovic and Dodig got off to a solid start, securing a vital break at 4-3 before closing out the set after some big serving from the Frenchwoman.

The Australian wildcard pairing were broken again early in the second set as Dodig`s exquisite play at the net proved too good for Fourlis on serve. The 22-year-old, however, made amends right away and forced Dodig into an error to get the break back and level at 2-2.

Momentum swung back quickly to Mladenovic and Dodig, however, and they secured another break before a fine angled volley from Mladenovic gave the fifth-seeded pair their first Grand Slam title together.

It was a third Grand Slam mixed doubles title for Mladenovic, while Dodig now has four.

"We texted each other many times to play mixed. What a way to end our first time playing together," said Mladenovic, who last won the mixed doubles at the Australian Open with Daniel Nestor in 2014.

"I didn`t play mixed for a long time. To partner with Ivan... he`s an amazing singles player, in my opinion. Now he`s showing his skills all around the court in doubles."

Dodig, who partnered Filip Polasek to clinch the men`s doubles last year, said their styles suited each other.

"I had the experience of playing with a couple of different partners. (Kristina) is playing very good from deuce, very good forehand. A little bit easier for me to adapt to her game. I think we are just a great match together," said the 37-year-old.

France`s Kristina Mladenovic and Croatian Ivan Dodig swept to a 6-3 6-4 victory against local duo Jaimee Fourlis and Jason Kubler to claim the Australian Open mixed doubles crown at Melbourne Park on Friday.

France`s Kristina Mladenovic and Croatian Ivan Dodig swept to a 6-3 6-4 victory against local duo Jaimee Fourlis and Jason Kubler to claim the Australian Open mixed doubles crown at Melbourne Park on Friday. Playing under a closed roof on Rod Laver Arena due to rain, Mladenovic and Dodig got off to a solid start, securing a vital break at 4-3 before closing out the set after some big serving from the Frenchwoman. The Australian wildcard pairing were broken again early in the second set as Dodig`s exquisite play at the net proved too good for Fourlis on serve. The 22-year-old, however, made amends right away and forced Dodig into an error to get the break back and level at 2-2. Momentum swung back quickly to Mladenovic and Dodig, however, and they secured another break before a fine angled volley from Mladenovic gave the fifth-seeded pair their first Grand Slam title together. It was a third Grand Slam mixed doubles title for Mladenovic, while Dodig now has four. "We texted each other many times to play mixed. What a way to end our first time playing together," said Mladenovic, who last won the mixed doubles at the Australian Open with Daniel Nestor in 2014. "I didn`t play mixed for a long time. To partner with Ivan... he`s an amazing singles player, in my opinion. Now he`s showing his skills all around the court in doubles." Dodig, who partnered Filip Polasek to clinch the men`s doubles last year, said their styles suited each other. "I had the experience of playing with a couple of different partners. (Kristina) is playing very good from deuce, very good forehand. A little bit easier for me to adapt to her game. I think we are just a great match together," said the 37-year-old.

Australian Open 2022: Kristina Mladenovic and Ivan Dodig bag mixed-doubles crown

Ash Barty ended a long drought by reaching the Australian Open final with a 6-1, 6-3 win over unseeded Madison Keys. She still has one to go. Barty is the first Australian woman to reach the singles final of her home Grand Slam tournament since Wendy Turnbull in 1980. No Australian has won the title since Chris O'Neil in 1978.

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The top-ranked Barty conceded only 17 games on her way to the semifinals and continued her strong form with another dominating performance against 2017 U.S. Open runner-up Keys. Barty has won major titles on grass at Wimbledon and clay at the French Open and is one win away from adding another on a hard court.

Ash Barty ended a long drought by reaching the Australian Open final with a 6-1, 6-3 win over unseeded Madison Keys. She still has one to go. Barty is the first Australian woman to reach the singles final of her home Grand Slam tournament since Wendy Turnbull in 1980.

Ash Barty ended a long drought by reaching the Australian Open final with a 6-1, 6-3 win over unseeded Madison Keys. She still has one to go. Barty is the first Australian woman to reach the singles final of her home Grand Slam tournament since Wendy Turnbull in 1980. No Australian has won the title since Chris O'Neil in 1978. ALSO READ | WATCH: World No. 1 Ashleigh Barty shows off her cricketing skills ahead of Aus Open semi-finals The top-ranked Barty conceded only 17 games on her way to the semifinals and continued her strong form with another dominating performance against 2017 U.S. Open runner-up Keys. Barty has won major titles on grass at Wimbledon and clay at the French Open and is one win away from adding another on a hard court.

Australian Open: World No. 1 Ashleigh Barty beats Madison Keys to reach final, achieves elite feat

Ashleigh Barty is set to compete with America's Madison Keys in the semi-finals of the Australian Open 2022 in the women's singles category. Ahead of the mouth-watering clash, the Aussie star showcased her cricketing skills on the sidelines of the showpiece event Down Under.

For the unversed, the World No. 1 Barty is a former professional cricketer as well.&nbsp;The Aussie had taken&nbsp;a break from her tennis career in 2014. In 2015, she took part in the Women's Big Bash League and turned up for the Brisbane Heat, a popular franchise having teams in both men's and women's BBL.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-matteo-berrettini-edges-past-gael-monfils-in-five-set-thriller-to-face-rafael-nadal-in-sfs-447536">Australian Open: Matteo Berrettini edges past Gael Monfils in five-set thriller, to face Rafael Nadal in SFs</a>

Barty didn't have a lengthy cricketing career, where she only played a total of 10 matches with a high score of 39&nbsp;for the Heat. She returned back to tennis and&nbsp;the No. 1 player continues to win hearts on the court. Recently, she recently flaunted her cricketing skills during the ongoing Aus Open:

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Our top seed <a href="https://twitter.com/ashbarty?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashbarty</a> isn't too bad with the bat, either!🏏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> · <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2022</a> · <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AOActive?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AOActive</a> <a href="https://t.co/waloT7yT8E">pic.twitter.com/waloT7yT8E</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1486168844553318400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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🇦🇺 <a href="https://twitter.com/ashbarty?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashbarty</a> has bowling skills to boot🏏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> · <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2022</a> · <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AOActive?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AOActive</a> <a href="https://t.co/PfjprtLujl">pic.twitter.com/PfjprtLujl</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1486169991510900737?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Meet <a href="https://twitter.com/ashbarty?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashbarty</a>, the wicketkeeper 🏏 
 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> · <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2022</a> · <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AOActive?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AOActive</a> <a href="https://t.co/fe45schNU2">pic.twitter.com/fe45schNU2</a>
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Reflecting back on her brief cricketing career, Barty had said in an interview in 2019, "It truly was an amazing period of my life. I met an amazing group of people who couldn't care less whether I could hit a tennis ball or not. They accepted me, and they got to know Ash Barty. They got to know me. I still have those relationships to this very day. I got an amazing amount of messages over the last couple of days from those cricket girls who were some of my best friends."

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Barty, on Tuesday, defeated Jessica Pegula 6-2, 6-0 to advance to her fourth Grand Slam semi-final. She is on the cusp of creating history by becoming the first Aussie woman to clinch the Australian Open title in Melbourne since Chris O'Neil (1978). She will face Madison on Thursday for a spot in the final.

Ashleigh Barty is set to compete with America's Madison Keys in the semi-finals of the Australian Open 2022 in the women's singles category. Ahead of the mouth-watering clash, the Aussie star showcased her cricketing skills on the sidelines of the showpiece event Down Under.

Ashleigh Barty is set to compete with America's Madison Keys in the semi-finals of the Australian Open 2022 in the women's singles category. Ahead of the mouth-watering clash, the Aussie star showcased her cricketing skills on the sidelines of the showpiece event Down Under. For the unversed, the World No. 1 Barty is a former professional cricketer as well. The Aussie had taken a break from her tennis career in 2014. In 2015, she took part in the Women's Big Bash League and turned up for the Brisbane Heat, a popular franchise having teams in both men's and women's BBL. ALSO READ | Australian Open: Matteo Berrettini edges past Gael Monfils in five-set thriller, to face Rafael Nadal in SFs Barty didn't have a lengthy cricketing career, where she only played a total of 10 matches with a high score of 39 for the Heat. She returned back to tennis and the No. 1 player continues to win hearts on the court. Recently, she recently flaunted her cricketing skills during the ongoing Aus Open: Our top seed @ashbarty isn't too bad with the bat, either!🏏#AusOpen · #AO2022 · #AOActive pic.twitter.com/waloT7yT8E — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 26, 2022 × 🇦🇺 @ashbarty has bowling skills to boot🏏#AusOpen · #AO2022 · #AOActive pic.twitter.com/PfjprtLujl — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 26, 2022 × Meet @ashbarty, the wicketkeeper 🏏 #AusOpen · #AO2022 · #AOActive pic.twitter.com/fe45schNU2 — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 26, 2022 × Reflecting back on her brief cricketing career, Barty had said in an interview in 2019, "It truly was an amazing period of my life. I met an amazing group of people who couldn't care less whether I could hit a tennis ball or not. They accepted me, and they got to know Ash Barty. They got to know me. I still have those relationships to this very day. I got an amazing amount of messages over the last couple of days from those cricket girls who were some of my best friends." ALSO READ | Sania Mirza to hang up her boots: Here's how much money Indian star has earned in her illustrious career Barty, on Tuesday, defeated Jessica Pegula 6-2, 6-0 to advance to her fourth Grand Slam semi-final. She is on the cusp of creating history by becoming the first Aussie woman to clinch the Australian Open title in Melbourne since Chris O'Neil (1978). She will face Madison on Thursday for a spot in the final.

WATCH: World No. 1 Ashleigh Barty shows off her cricketing skills ahead of Aus Open semi-finals

Top seed Daniil Medvedev battled back from two sets down and saved a match point against Canada`s Felix Auger-Aliassime to reach the Australian Open semi-finals with a 6-7(4) 3-6 7-6(2) 7-5 6-4 victory on Wednesday.

The 25-year-old Russian had his back firmly up against the wall for much of an absorbing contest as Auger-Aliassime produced some stunning tennis on Rod Laver Arena.

But he simply refused to lie down as he overturned a two-set deficit for only the second time in his career to set up a Friday semi-final against Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas.

Ninth seed Auger-Aliassime, 21, was the dominant player in the first set and despite a wobble when serving at 6-5 he won a tiebreak courtesy of some uncharacteristic Medvedev errors.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/australian-open-stefanos-tsitsipas-thrashes-jannik-sinner-to-reach-semifinals-447744">Australian Open: Stefanos Tsitsipas thrashes Jannik Sinner to reach semifinals</a>

Auger-Aliassime cruised through the second set against a subdued Medvedev to move to within a set of a first career win against the Russian and a second Grand Slam semi-final.

Medvedev was hanging on towards the end of the third set as Auger-Aliassime sensed victory but managed to close out a tiebreak after a shower caused the roof to be closed.

Auger-Aliassime had a match point in the 10th game of the fourth set after a Medvedev double-fault but the Russian responded with huge serving to stay alive.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/australian-open-iga-swiatek-holds-off-kaia-kanepi-to-reach-the-semis-447738">Australian Open: Iga Swiatek holds off Kaia Kanepi to reach the semis</a>

Medvedev then broke serve in the next game and held his own to extend the match into a decider -- finally seizing the initiative with an early break as the match entered its fifth hour.

Auger-Aliassime had one last chance when he earned a break back point trailing 4-3 but Medvedev snatched away the opportunity with a timely ace.

Serving for the match, Medvedev showed some cracks in his armour as he went down 15-40, but rattled off four consecutive points to claim victory after four hours and 42 minutes.

Top seed Daniil Medvedev battled back from two sets down and saved a match point against Canada`s Felix Auger-Aliassime to reach the Australian Open semi-finals with a 6-7(4) 3-6 7-6(2) 7-5 6-4 victory on Wednesday.

Top seed Daniil Medvedev battled back from two sets down and saved a match point against Canada`s Felix Auger-Aliassime to reach the Australian Open semi-finals with a 6-7(4) 3-6 7-6(2) 7-5 6-4 victory on Wednesday. The 25-year-old Russian had his back firmly up against the wall for much of an absorbing contest as Auger-Aliassime produced some stunning tennis on Rod Laver Arena. But he simply refused to lie down as he overturned a two-set deficit for only the second time in his career to set up a Friday semi-final against Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas. Ninth seed Auger-Aliassime, 21, was the dominant player in the first set and despite a wobble when serving at 6-5 he won a tiebreak courtesy of some uncharacteristic Medvedev errors. Read Also | Australian Open: Stefanos Tsitsipas thrashes Jannik Sinner to reach semifinals Auger-Aliassime cruised through the second set against a subdued Medvedev to move to within a set of a first career win against the Russian and a second Grand Slam semi-final. Medvedev was hanging on towards the end of the third set as Auger-Aliassime sensed victory but managed to close out a tiebreak after a shower caused the roof to be closed. Auger-Aliassime had a match point in the 10th game of the fourth set after a Medvedev double-fault but the Russian responded with huge serving to stay alive. Read Also | Australian Open: Iga Swiatek holds off Kaia Kanepi to reach the semis Medvedev then broke serve in the next game and held his own to extend the match into a decider -- finally seizing the initiative with an early break as the match entered its fifth hour. Auger-Aliassime had one last chance when he earned a break back point trailing 4-3 but Medvedev snatched away the opportunity with a timely ace. Serving for the match, Medvedev showed some cracks in his armour as he went down 15-40, but rattled off four consecutive points to claim victory after four hours and 42 minutes.

Australian Open: Daniil Medvedev edges past Felix Auger-Aliassime in riveting battle, enters semis

Madison Keys faces the biggest test of her resurgence when she meets Ash Barty in the Australian Open semi-finals on Thursday, as the American aims to end the top seed`s bid to delight home fans by winning an elusive title.

Keys, who reached the last-four in 2015, will play in her first Grand Slam semi-final in four years having emerged from the "dark pit of despair" she had fallen into due to the pressure she put on herself to perform at the highest level.

"I know I`m going to feel nervous... excited. I know all of those feelings are going to be there," Keys said of her previous semi-final appearances at majors. "But it`s also a completely different situation, time and person.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/australian-open-stefanos-tsitsipas-thrashes-jannik-sinner-to-reach-semifinals-447744">Australian Open: Stefanos Tsitsipas thrashes Jannik Sinner to reach semifinals</a>

"I think you take the experience that you have from those moments and you try to apply it, but you also know that it`s going to be a completely different challenge."

Keys can expect a tough time against a ruthless Barty, who is chasing a third Grand Slam title to add to her French Open and Wimbledon crowns, and also become the first local player since Chris O`Neil in 1978 to triumph at Melbourne Park.

Danielle Collins takes on former Roland Garros champion Iga Swiatek in the other semi-final, looking to secure a first win over the seventh seed and break into the top 10 of the world rankings.

Madison Keys faces the biggest test of her resurgence when she meets Ash Barty in the Australian Open semi-finals on Thursday, as the American aims to end the top seed`s bid to delight home fans by winning an elusive title.

Madison Keys faces the biggest test of her resurgence when she meets Ash Barty in the Australian Open semi-finals on Thursday, as the American aims to end the top seed`s bid to delight home fans by winning an elusive title. Keys, who reached the last-four in 2015, will play in her first Grand Slam semi-final in four years having emerged from the "dark pit of despair" she had fallen into due to the pressure she put on herself to perform at the highest level. "I know I`m going to feel nervous... excited. I know all of those feelings are going to be there," Keys said of her previous semi-final appearances at majors. "But it`s also a completely different situation, time and person. Read Also | Australian Open: Stefanos Tsitsipas thrashes Jannik Sinner to reach semifinals "I think you take the experience that you have from those moments and you try to apply it, but you also know that it`s going to be a completely different challenge." Keys can expect a tough time against a ruthless Barty, who is chasing a third Grand Slam title to add to her French Open and Wimbledon crowns, and also become the first local player since Chris O`Neil in 1978 to triumph at Melbourne Park. Danielle Collins takes on former Roland Garros champion Iga Swiatek in the other semi-final, looking to secure a first win over the seventh seed and break into the top 10 of the world rankings.

Australian Open: Madison Keys faces Ashleigh Barty hurdle to enter final

Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas will be hoping it is third time lucky in an Australian Open semi-final after his scintillating 6-3 6-4 6-2 victory against Jannik Sinner in the last eight on Wednesday at Rod Laver Arena.

The fourth seed, a semi-finalist in Melbourne in 2019 and 2021, was stretched to five sets by Taylor Fritz on Monday but showed no signs of fatigue in a match that started in blazing sunshine but finished under the roof after a storm hit.

The 23-year-old will play the winner of the quarter-final between Russian Daniil Medvedev and Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime later on Wednesday.

With Melbourne`s big Greek population, Tsitsipas has always drawn strong support at the Australian Open and it was the same again in the clash against Sinner.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/australian-open-iga-swiatek-holds-off-kaia-kanepi-to-reach-the-semis-447738">Australian Open: Iga Swiatek holds off Kaia Kanepi to reach the semis</a>

"I think my humility helped a lot today. I knew I was going on the court facing a very good player. I tried to focus on my best shots and it paid off more than I thought," he said in his on-court interview.

"Once again, stepping on to that court, having the crowd support, it is truly unbelievable."

A finalist at Roland Garros last year, Tsitsipas was troubled by elbow problems at the end of last season and was concerned he might not be able to play in Australia.

"I am pretty sure my doctor is watching right now. He has been sending me texts after every single game," he said.

"He said `I don`t expect to see you playing in Australia`. But I proved him wrong. I am happy I have found the right man to bring me back even stronger."

Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas will be hoping it is third time lucky in an Australian Open semi-final after his scintillating 6-3 6-4 6-2 victory against Jannik Sinner in the last eight on Wednesday at Rod Laver Arena.

Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas will be hoping it is third time lucky in an Australian Open semi-final after his scintillating 6-3 6-4 6-2 victory against Jannik Sinner in the last eight on Wednesday at Rod Laver Arena. The fourth seed, a semi-finalist in Melbourne in 2019 and 2021, was stretched to five sets by Taylor Fritz on Monday but showed no signs of fatigue in a match that started in blazing sunshine but finished under the roof after a storm hit. The 23-year-old will play the winner of the quarter-final between Russian Daniil Medvedev and Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime later on Wednesday. With Melbourne`s big Greek population, Tsitsipas has always drawn strong support at the Australian Open and it was the same again in the clash against Sinner. Read Also | Australian Open: Iga Swiatek holds off Kaia Kanepi to reach the semis "I think my humility helped a lot today. I knew I was going on the court facing a very good player. I tried to focus on my best shots and it paid off more than I thought," he said in his on-court interview. "Once again, stepping on to that court, having the crowd support, it is truly unbelievable." A finalist at Roland Garros last year, Tsitsipas was troubled by elbow problems at the end of last season and was concerned he might not be able to play in Australia. "I am pretty sure my doctor is watching right now. He has been sending me texts after every single game," he said. "He said `I don`t expect to see you playing in Australia`. But I proved him wrong. I am happy I have found the right man to bring me back even stronger."

Australian Open: Stefanos Tsitsipas thrashes Jannik Sinner to reach semifinals

French Open winner Iga Swiatek managed to temper her frustrations and rally from a set and a break down in brutal heat to overpower Estonian Kaia Kanepi 4-6 7-6(2) 6-3 on Wednesday to reach her first Australian Open semi-final.

Poland`s Swiatek will next meet 27th-seeded American Danielle Collins, who earlier defeated Frenchwoman Alize Cornet 7-5 6-1, for a place in Saturday`s final at Melbourne Park.

In their first career meeting, Swiatek wasted breakpoint chances in each of Kanepi`s first three service games and it was the Estonian who converted her first chance in the seventh game to nose ahead.

Swiatek saved four setpoints in the ninth game that lasted 16 minutes but could not stop Kanepi from taking the opener on her ninth opportunity after another lengthy game.

"In the first set I had so many breakpoints, I felt like I missed my chances because she broke me on her first breakpoint," Swiatek said on court.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/australian-open-matteo-berrettini-edges-past-gael-monfils-in-five-set-thriller-to-face-rafael-nadal-in-sfs-447536">Australian Open: Matteo Berrettini edges past Gael Monfils in five-set thriller, to face Rafael Nadal in SFs</a>

"I was pretty annoyed. That was a mistake because I should have been focused on the future, on the next ball."

Kanepi, 36, appeared set to progress beyond the last eight at a Grand Slam for the first time when she broke early in the second, with a frustrated Swiatek slapping herself and slamming her racquet on court.

The Estonian did most of the damage with her powerful double-handed backhand, leaving Swiatek rooted to the spot and watching helplessly as the winners screamed past.

But the 2020 Roland Garros champion, who committed 12 double faults in the match, regained her composure and raised her level in a second set tiebreaker to level the contest at 1-1.

Swiatek suffered two more breaks in the decider but managed to break 115th-ranked Kanepi four times. She showed some incredible defence on her second match point, sealing the three-hour contest when Kanepi sent a backhand wide for her 62nd unforced error.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/australian-open-sania-mirza-rajeev-ram-bow-out-lose-quarterfinal-clash-in-straight-sets-447390">Australian Open: Sania Mirza-Rajeev Ram bow out, lose quarterfinal clash in straight sets</a>

"I`m really glad that I have my voice because I was shouting so loud," Swiatek said. 
"This match was crazy and without the energy in the stadium, I think it would`ve been really hard to win it."

While Kanepi admitted to feeling a "bit heavy" in her legs in the third set, Swiatek was unflustered in the sweltering conditions and said she would be ready for the last-four clash against Collins on Thursday.

"My main concern is if the sun is going to be bothering me during the serve," Swiatek told reporters. "So I didn`t really care that it`s hot and humid.

"I know that I`m physically really prepared, and I hoped that she`s going to be more tired in the end. I actually wanted to prolong some ... rallies to make her more tired because I have big trust in myself in terms of my physical shape."

French Open winner Iga Swiatek managed to temper her frustrations and rally from a set and a break down in brutal heat to overpower Estonian Kaia Kanepi 4-6 7-6(2) 6-3 on Wednesday to reach her first Australian Open semi-final.

French Open winner Iga Swiatek managed to temper her frustrations and rally from a set and a break down in brutal heat to overpower Estonian Kaia Kanepi 4-6 7-6(2) 6-3 on Wednesday to reach her first Australian Open semi-final. Poland`s Swiatek will next meet 27th-seeded American Danielle Collins, who earlier defeated Frenchwoman Alize Cornet 7-5 6-1, for a place in Saturday`s final at Melbourne Park. In their first career meeting, Swiatek wasted breakpoint chances in each of Kanepi`s first three service games and it was the Estonian who converted her first chance in the seventh game to nose ahead. Swiatek saved four setpoints in the ninth game that lasted 16 minutes but could not stop Kanepi from taking the opener on her ninth opportunity after another lengthy game. "In the first set I had so many breakpoints, I felt like I missed my chances because she broke me on her first breakpoint," Swiatek said on court. Read Also | Australian Open: Matteo Berrettini edges past Gael Monfils in five-set thriller, to face Rafael Nadal in SFs "I was pretty annoyed. That was a mistake because I should have been focused on the future, on the next ball." Kanepi, 36, appeared set to progress beyond the last eight at a Grand Slam for the first time when she broke early in the second, with a frustrated Swiatek slapping herself and slamming her racquet on court. The Estonian did most of the damage with her powerful double-handed backhand, leaving Swiatek rooted to the spot and watching helplessly as the winners screamed past. But the 2020 Roland Garros champion, who committed 12 double faults in the match, regained her composure and raised her level in a second set tiebreaker to level the contest at 1-1. Swiatek suffered two more breaks in the decider but managed to break 115th-ranked Kanepi four times. She showed some incredible defence on her second match point, sealing the three-hour contest when Kanepi sent a backhand wide for her 62nd unforced error. Read Also | Australian Open: Sania Mirza-Rajeev Ram bow out, lose quarterfinal clash in straight sets "I`m really glad that I have my voice because I was shouting so loud," Swiatek said. "This match was crazy and without the energy in the stadium, I think it would`ve been really hard to win it." While Kanepi admitted to feeling a "bit heavy" in her legs in the third set, Swiatek was unflustered in the sweltering conditions and said she would be ready for the last-four clash against Collins on Thursday. "My main concern is if the sun is going to be bothering me during the serve," Swiatek told reporters. "So I didn`t really care that it`s hot and humid. "I know that I`m physically really prepared, and I hoped that she`s going to be more tired in the end. I actually wanted to prolong some ... rallies to make her more tired because I have big trust in myself in terms of my physical shape."

Australian Open: Iga Swiatek holds off Kaia Kanepi to reach the semis

World number seven Matteo Berrettini beats Gael Monfils of France 6-4, 6-4, 3-6, 3-6, 6-2 in a match that lasted for three hours and 49 minutes to enter the men`s singles semi-final here at the Rod Laver Arena on Tuesday. The Wimbledon finalist will now face 20-time grand slam champion Rafael Nadal for a place in the final. The seventh seed Italian Berrettini started off on a confident note breaking the Frenchman Monfils in the fifth game of the first set to take the lead. From there on Berrettini held his serves to win the opening set 6-4.

Matteo Berrettini got a great opportunity in the second set to take an early lead as he had two break points taking a 15-40 lead. But Gael Monfils held his nerve save those breakpoints and the Frenchman saved three break points in the game to win it. In the fourth game, Berrettini saved four breakpoints and the game went to 10 duece. Finally, there was a break of serve in the seventh game Berrettini broke Monfils to take a lead and went on to win the set by a similar score of 6-4 taking a two-set lead.Just when it seemed that Berrettini could take away the match Monfils made a comeback.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-sania-mirza-rajeev-ram-bow-out-lose-quarterfinal-clash-in-straight-sets-447390">Australian Open: Sania Mirza-Rajeev Ram bow out, lose quarterfinal clash in straight sets</a>

In the fifth game, Berrettini conceded a double fault to give Monfils a break as the Frenchman took a 4-2 lead and went on to win the set 6-3 as the match went to the fourth set.Gael Monfils got the momentum and the Frenchman broke Berrettini in the fifth and ninth game to win the set 6-3 and make it two sets apiece as his wife. The fifth and final set the Italian made a roaring comeback breaking Berrettini twice in the first and third game to take the race to a 4-0 lead ultimately winning the set 6-2 as well as the match. The Italian will now face 20-time grand slam champion Rafael Nadal in the final.

World number seven Matteo Berrettini beats Gael Monfils of France 6-4, 6-4, 3-6, 3-6, 6-2 in a match that lasted for three hours and 49 minutes to enter the men`s singles semi-final here at the Rod Laver Arena on Tuesday.

World number seven Matteo Berrettini beats Gael Monfils of France 6-4, 6-4, 3-6, 3-6, 6-2 in a match that lasted for three hours and 49 minutes to enter the men`s singles semi-final here at the Rod Laver Arena on Tuesday. The Wimbledon finalist will now face 20-time grand slam champion Rafael Nadal for a place in the final. The seventh seed Italian Berrettini started off on a confident note breaking the Frenchman Monfils in the fifth game of the first set to take the lead. From there on Berrettini held his serves to win the opening set 6-4. Matteo Berrettini got a great opportunity in the second set to take an early lead as he had two break points taking a 15-40 lead. But Gael Monfils held his nerve save those breakpoints and the Frenchman saved three break points in the game to win it. In the fourth game, Berrettini saved four breakpoints and the game went to 10 duece. Finally, there was a break of serve in the seventh game Berrettini broke Monfils to take a lead and went on to win the set by a similar score of 6-4 taking a two-set lead.Just when it seemed that Berrettini could take away the match Monfils made a comeback. ALSO READ | Australian Open: Sania Mirza-Rajeev Ram bow out, lose quarterfinal clash in straight sets In the fifth game, Berrettini conceded a double fault to give Monfils a break as the Frenchman took a 4-2 lead and went on to win the set 6-3 as the match went to the fourth set.Gael Monfils got the momentum and the Frenchman broke Berrettini in the fifth and ninth game to win the set 6-3 and make it two sets apiece as his wife. The fifth and final set the Italian made a roaring comeback breaking Berrettini twice in the first and third game to take the race to a 4-0 lead ultimately winning the set 6-2 as well as the match. The Italian will now face 20-time grand slam champion Rafael Nadal in the final.

Australian Open: Matteo Berrettini edges past Gael Monfils in five-set thriller, to face Rafael Nadal in SFs

Tennis Australia is facing a backlash for banning "Where is Peng Shuai" t-shirts at the Australian Open. Speaking exclusively to WION, activist Max Mok and Drew Pavlou shared how the police bullied and intimidated those who were wearing the t-shirts. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Tennis Australia faces backlash for ban on Peng Shuai T-shirts

Daniil Medvedev has tapped into the energy of the crowd at Melbourne Park by playing both hero and villain, while the world number two`s mind games have also earned him comparisons with American great Jimmy Connors.

Similarly to his run to the U.S. Open final in 2019, where the Russian antagonised fans at Flushing Meadows early on before ultimately winning them over, Medvedev has engaged with crowds at the Australian Open in his four victories so far.

The 25-year-old, who plays Felix Auger-Aliassime in a quarter-final on Wednesday, criticised fans for emulating Cristiano Ronaldo`s famous "Siuuu!" goal celebration during a match and later said some had a "low IQ".

But after his third-round triumph over Botic van de Zandschulp, the U.S. Open champion was trying to win them over once again.

"Every good relationship must have its ups and downs, so I think it`s good, it`s entertaining, and I think it`s real. There is some relationship going on," he said.

Roger Rasheed, who has coached players such as Lleyton Hewitt, Gael Monfils and Grigor Dimitrov, said Medvedev was skilful in using the reactions of fans to his advantage.

"It is powerful if you can use it and absorb it, but it has also hurt people in the past because they feel the heat of all of that and the emotions of it, and because it is so high-octane, you can actually get too wound up," he said.

"Some people can`t emotionally stay stable through that time. Some people raise their level and it gets a bit too intense for them. It is quite a balancing act.

"Then there are players who rise and love that space and they use it. Daniil is one of them."

Craig O`Shannessy, a strategy analyst working with Australian player Alexei Popyrin, said Medvedev had mastered a double-act on the court.

"He does both sides of that equation probably better than anyone at the moment," he said.

"I mean, (Nick) Kyrgios is another guy who does it. It is not easy to play the hero and the villain, but Medvedev pulls it off.

"He injects himself into that negativity with the crowd, but that still helps pick him up. Then he will do the opposite and get the crowd on his side, which will help elevate him emotionally as well."

Rasheed said crowds liked that Medvedev spoke his mind, a trait which Swedish great Mats Wilander said the Russian shared with Connors.

Medvedev`s description of fourth-round opponent Maxime Cressy`s style as "so boring" was similar to the way Connors used to provoke opponents, added Wilander, a three-time Australian Open champion.

"It was very unusual for a player to say what Daniil (said) out loud and then confess to the fact that, `Yeah. I was trying to get into his head,`" Wilander said on Eurosport.

"In the 80s, there was one particular player ... Jimmy Connors who definitely tried to get into his opponents` head. It`s very honest from Medvedev."

Daniil Medvedev has tapped into the energy of the crowd at Melbourne Park by playing both hero and villain, while the world number two`s mind games have also earned him comparisons with American great Jimmy Connors.

Daniil Medvedev has tapped into the energy of the crowd at Melbourne Park by playing both hero and villain, while the world number two`s mind games have also earned him comparisons with American great Jimmy Connors. Similarly to his run to the U.S. Open final in 2019, where the Russian antagonised fans at Flushing Meadows early on before ultimately winning them over, Medvedev has engaged with crowds at the Australian Open in his four victories so far. The 25-year-old, who plays Felix Auger-Aliassime in a quarter-final on Wednesday, criticised fans for emulating Cristiano Ronaldo`s famous "Siuuu!" goal celebration during a match and later said some had a "low IQ". But after his third-round triumph over Botic van de Zandschulp, the U.S. Open champion was trying to win them over once again. "Every good relationship must have its ups and downs, so I think it`s good, it`s entertaining, and I think it`s real. There is some relationship going on," he said. Roger Rasheed, who has coached players such as Lleyton Hewitt, Gael Monfils and Grigor Dimitrov, said Medvedev was skilful in using the reactions of fans to his advantage. "It is powerful if you can use it and absorb it, but it has also hurt people in the past because they feel the heat of all of that and the emotions of it, and because it is so high-octane, you can actually get too wound up," he said. "Some people can`t emotionally stay stable through that time. Some people raise their level and it gets a bit too intense for them. It is quite a balancing act. "Then there are players who rise and love that space and they use it. Daniil is one of them." Craig O`Shannessy, a strategy analyst working with Australian player Alexei Popyrin, said Medvedev had mastered a double-act on the court. "He does both sides of that equation probably better than anyone at the moment," he said. "I mean, (Nick) Kyrgios is another guy who does it. It is not easy to play the hero and the villain, but Medvedev pulls it off. "He injects himself into that negativity with the crowd, but that still helps pick him up. Then he will do the opposite and get the crowd on his side, which will help elevate him emotionally as well." Rasheed said crowds liked that Medvedev spoke his mind, a trait which Swedish great Mats Wilander said the Russian shared with Connors. Medvedev`s description of fourth-round opponent Maxime Cressy`s style as "so boring" was similar to the way Connors used to provoke opponents, added Wilander, a three-time Australian Open champion. "It was very unusual for a player to say what Daniil (said) out loud and then confess to the fact that, `Yeah. I was trying to get into his head,`" Wilander said on Eurosport. "In the 80s, there was one particular player ... Jimmy Connors who definitely tried to get into his opponents` head. It`s very honest from Medvedev."

Daniil Medvedev playing both hero and villain at Australian Open

Rafa Nadal drew within two wins of a record 21st Grand Slam title on Tuesday after claiming a five-set thriller against Denis Shapovalov to grind into the Australian Open semi-finals for the seventh time. On a steamy afternoon at Rod Laver Arena, Nadal suffered a huge scare as Shapovalov roared back from two sets down but the warrior Spaniard found another gear in the decider to prevail 6-3 6-4 4-6 3-6 6-3.

"I was completely destroyed after that," Nadal said on-court after the match, which lasted four hours and eight minutes.

"It`s amazing, honestly, to be in the semi-finals ... For me it`s everything to be able to play one more time here in the Rod Laver Arena."

Nadal narrowly avoided a repeat of last year`s quarter-final in Melbourne when he was sent packing by Stefanos Tsitsipas after taking a two-set lead. Two months ago, the sixth seed wondered whether his career was finished as he struggled to come back from a foot injury, but he will now prepare for his 36th Grand Slam semi-final against Matteo Berrettini or Gael Monfils.

Alarm bells were ringing for the record bid when the 35-year-old dropped the fourth set and exited the court for a medical time-out. But he returned to break Shapovalov in the second game of the decider and kept the Canadian at arm`s length to the finish.

After pushing a volley wide on match-point, Shapovalov turned and smashed his racket into the court in anguish. 
A beaming Nadal spread his arms wide, leant back and pointed to the corners of the stadium, soaking up one of his finer wins at Melbourne Park.

"We can create histories ... but the real truth is that two months ago, we didn`t know if we will be able to be back on Tour at all," he said.

"So here I am. For me it`s just a present of life that I`m here playing tennis again." 
Shapovalov was brave in defeat but will rue the head start he gave Nadal and later on, the double-fault served at 1-0 down in the final set that gifted the Spaniard three break points.

The hot-tempered Canadian tried everything he could think of as he struggled earlier in the match, demanding Nadal receive a code violation for not taking to the court quickly enough at the start of the second set.

"Are you kidding me? You guys are all corrupt," the 14th seed snapped at the chair umpire when denied satisfaction. 
Shapovalov hung in, though, and pounced when Nadal gifted three set points in the third set with a horror service game.

He stepped in and thrashed a stunning cross-court thunderbolt off his backhand to claim the third set, turning the match on its head.

Shapovalov was transformed as Nadal grew sluggish, earning a code violation for breaching the serve clock at 2-1 in the fourth set. After dropping serve and falling 4-1 behind, Nadal called for a trainer, pointed to his stomach and took a tablet.

Wielding his one-handed backhand like a wand, Shapovalov served out the set and seemed certain to repeat the Tsitsipas stunner.

But three break points slipped through his fingers in the decider, allowing Nadal to forge clear and keep the record bid alive.

Rafa Nadal drew within two wins of a record 21st Grand Slam title on Tuesday after claiming a five-set thriller against Denis Shapovalov to grind into the Australian Open semi-finals for the seventh time.

Rafa Nadal drew within two wins of a record 21st Grand Slam title on Tuesday after claiming a five-set thriller against Denis Shapovalov to grind into the Australian Open semi-finals for the seventh time. On a steamy afternoon at Rod Laver Arena, Nadal suffered a huge scare as Shapovalov roared back from two sets down but the warrior Spaniard found another gear in the decider to prevail 6-3 6-4 4-6 3-6 6-3. "I was completely destroyed after that," Nadal said on-court after the match, which lasted four hours and eight minutes. "It`s amazing, honestly, to be in the semi-finals ... For me it`s everything to be able to play one more time here in the Rod Laver Arena." Nadal narrowly avoided a repeat of last year`s quarter-final in Melbourne when he was sent packing by Stefanos Tsitsipas after taking a two-set lead. Two months ago, the sixth seed wondered whether his career was finished as he struggled to come back from a foot injury, but he will now prepare for his 36th Grand Slam semi-final against Matteo Berrettini or Gael Monfils. Alarm bells were ringing for the record bid when the 35-year-old dropped the fourth set and exited the court for a medical time-out. But he returned to break Shapovalov in the second game of the decider and kept the Canadian at arm`s length to the finish. After pushing a volley wide on match-point, Shapovalov turned and smashed his racket into the court in anguish. A beaming Nadal spread his arms wide, leant back and pointed to the corners of the stadium, soaking up one of his finer wins at Melbourne Park. "We can create histories ... but the real truth is that two months ago, we didn`t know if we will be able to be back on Tour at all," he said. "So here I am. For me it`s just a present of life that I`m here playing tennis again." Shapovalov was brave in defeat but will rue the head start he gave Nadal and later on, the double-fault served at 1-0 down in the final set that gifted the Spaniard three break points. The hot-tempered Canadian tried everything he could think of as he struggled earlier in the match, demanding Nadal receive a code violation for not taking to the court quickly enough at the start of the second set. "Are you kidding me? You guys are all corrupt," the 14th seed snapped at the chair umpire when denied satisfaction. Shapovalov hung in, though, and pounced when Nadal gifted three set points in the third set with a horror service game. He stepped in and thrashed a stunning cross-court thunderbolt off his backhand to claim the third set, turning the match on its head. Shapovalov was transformed as Nadal grew sluggish, earning a code violation for breaching the serve clock at 2-1 in the fourth set. After dropping serve and falling 4-1 behind, Nadal called for a trainer, pointed to his stomach and took a tablet. Wielding his one-handed backhand like a wand, Shapovalov served out the set and seemed certain to repeat the Tsitsipas stunner. But three break points slipped through his fingers in the decider, allowing Nadal to forge clear and keep the record bid alive.

Rafael Nadal survives Denis Shapovalov scare in five-set thriller to enter Australian Open semi-finals

The Australian Open organisers have decided to revoke the ban on 'Where is Peng Shuai?' T-shirts after a severe global backlash. The move comes after a couple of fans were recently asked to remove their T-shirts featuring the message in support of the Chinese tennis star at Melbourne Park. The video of the incident had gone viral on social media leading to a global outcry.

In the video shared by an activist on social media, two fans wearing a T-shirt with Shuai's face on the front and the message - 'Where is Peng Shuai?' on the back were asked to remove them by the security staff at the venue. They were also carrying banners with the same message which were also confiscated by the security officials.

Chinese tennis star Shuai had gone missing for weeks after accusing former Chinese vice-premier Zhang Gaoli of sexually assaulting her. She made the accusations in a social media post which was taken down just 30 minutes after being shared but soon went viral on social media.&nbsp;

Shuai has since reappeared in public but there remain concerns over her safety with several tennis stars also expressing their support for her during the ongoing Australian Open. On Tuesday (January 25), Tennis Australia's chief executive Craig Tiley announced that fans will be allowed to wear T-shirts with messages supporting Shuai at the Australian Open.

"If someone wants to wear a T-shirt and make a statement about Peng Shuai that's fine," Tiley quoted as saying in The Sydney Morning Herald. However, he insisted that banners will still not be allowed as "it really takes away from the comfort and safety of the fans".

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-martina-navratilova-says-tennis-australia-capitulating-to-china-over-peng-shuai-447076">Australian Open: Martina Navratilova says Tennis Australia capitulating to China over Peng Shuai</a>

Tennis Australia had faced intense criticism for their move of banning T-shirts with messages supporting Shuai after the video of the supporters being asked to remove their shirts and banners had gone viral last week. Many had suggested that the Australian Open organisers were bowing to pressure from a major Chinese sponsor.

After disappearing for weeks, Shuai had made her first public appearance during a media interview in December this year. She had refused making sexual assault allegations against the former Chinese vice-premier in the interview and claimed that her post was 'misunderstood'.

 
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The Australian Open organisers have decided to revoke the ban on 'Where is Peng Shuai?' T-shirts after a severe global backlash. The move comes after a couple of fans were recently asked to remove their T-shirts featuring the message in support of the Chinese tennis star at Melbourne Park.

The Australian Open organisers have decided to revoke the ban on 'Where is Peng Shuai?' T-shirts after a severe global backlash. The move comes after a couple of fans were recently asked to remove their T-shirts featuring the message in support of the Chinese tennis star at Melbourne Park. The video of the incident had gone viral on social media leading to a global outcry. In the video shared by an activist on social media, two fans wearing a T-shirt with Shuai's face on the front and the message - 'Where is Peng Shuai?' on the back were asked to remove them by the security staff at the venue. They were also carrying banners with the same message which were also confiscated by the security officials. Chinese tennis star Shuai had gone missing for weeks after accusing former Chinese vice-premier Zhang Gaoli of sexually assaulting her. She made the accusations in a social media post which was taken down just 30 minutes after being shared but soon went viral on social media. Shuai has since reappeared in public but there remain concerns over her safety with several tennis stars also expressing their support for her during the ongoing Australian Open. On Tuesday (January 25), Tennis Australia's chief executive Craig Tiley announced that fans will be allowed to wear T-shirts with messages supporting Shuai at the Australian Open. "If someone wants to wear a T-shirt and make a statement about Peng Shuai that's fine," Tiley quoted as saying in The Sydney Morning Herald. However, he insisted that banners will still not be allowed as "it really takes away from the comfort and safety of the fans". Also Read: Australian Open: Martina Navratilova says Tennis Australia capitulating to China over Peng Shuai Tennis Australia had faced intense criticism for their move of banning T-shirts with messages supporting Shuai after the video of the supporters being asked to remove their shirts and banners had gone viral last week. Many had suggested that the Australian Open organisers were bowing to pressure from a major Chinese sponsor. After disappearing for weeks, Shuai had made her first public appearance during a media interview in December this year. She had refused making sexual assault allegations against the former Chinese vice-premier in the interview and claimed that her post was 'misunderstood'.

Australian Open to revoke ban on 'Where is Peng Shuai?' T-shirts after severe backlash

Estonia`s Kaia Kanepi rallied from a set down to topple world number two Aryna Sabalenka 5-7 6-2 7-6(10) on Margaret Court Arena in a tight contest on Monday to reach the Australian Open quarter-finals for the first time.

Having surrendered the opening set for three matches in a row, Sabalenka took a one-set lead for the first time in Melbourne but was unable to build on it as her serving issues resurfaced once again.

The Belarusian committed 15 double faults in another error-strewn performance, five more than she had in her third-round win over Marketa Vondrousova.

Kanepi was gifted a double break early in the second set with back-to-back double faults from her 23-year-old opponent and did not waste the opportunity as she cruised to a 4-0 lead before taking the set.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/australian-open-rafael-nadal-gets-pumped-up-by-denis-shapovalov-clash-in-quarters-447206">Australian Open: Rafael Nadal gets pumped up by Denis Shapovalov clash in quarters</a>

The 36-year-old carried that momentum into the decider and looked set to go 5-3 up but Sabalenka saved four break points to hold for 3-4 and level it, before suffering a service meltdown again and hitting three double faults in four points.

Kanepi was made to work for her victory after being unable to close the match from 40-0 up as Sabalenka saved four matchpoints to break back, before the pair traded holds to take the deciding set into a tiebreaker.

The Estonian finally prevailed in the tiebreak, taking advantage of a string of unforced errors from Sabalenka to convert her fifth matchpoint and complete the upset.

"I think I would be more happy if I won after two, three matchpoints," Kanepi told reporters. "It was really close, I almost lost the match. 
"My hand was shaking when I started serving in that game. I didn`t make any first serves in, and that added to the pressure. 
"I almost didn`t (recover). I guess I was just lucky at the end. So close."

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/australian-open-stefanos-tsitsipas-moves-into-quarterfinals-with-win-over-taylor-fritz-447201">Australian open: Stefanos Tsitsipas moves into quarterfinals with win over Taylor Fritz</a>

Sabalenka expressed disappointment in her performance but said there were still positives to take from the defeat. 
"I had all the opportunities and I didn`t use it," Sabalenka said. "I would say I started well but I lost focus and it became really emotional. I couldn`t find a way back. 
"Compared to the beginning of the season, I`m really happy that I was able to kind of find the rhythm on my serve. So there is still something positive."

Kanepi will take on 2020 French Open champion Iga Swiatek, who beat Sorana Cirstea 5-7 6-3 6-3 earlier on Monday, for a place in the semi-finals.

The world number 115 has reached the quarter-finals of a Grand Slam on six previous occasions, most recently in the 2017 U.S. Open, but has never managed to progress beyond the last eight.

Estonia`s Kaia Kanepi rallied from a set down to topple world number two Aryna Sabalenka 5-7 6-2 7-6(10) on Margaret Court Arena in a tight contest on Monday to reach the Australian Open quarter-finals for the first time.

Estonia`s Kaia Kanepi rallied from a set down to topple world number two Aryna Sabalenka 5-7 6-2 7-6(10) on Margaret Court Arena in a tight contest on Monday to reach the Australian Open quarter-finals for the first time. Having surrendered the opening set for three matches in a row, Sabalenka took a one-set lead for the first time in Melbourne but was unable to build on it as her serving issues resurfaced once again. The Belarusian committed 15 double faults in another error-strewn performance, five more than she had in her third-round win over Marketa Vondrousova. Kanepi was gifted a double break early in the second set with back-to-back double faults from her 23-year-old opponent and did not waste the opportunity as she cruised to a 4-0 lead before taking the set. Read Also | Australian Open: Rafael Nadal gets pumped up by Denis Shapovalov clash in quarters The 36-year-old carried that momentum into the decider and looked set to go 5-3 up but Sabalenka saved four break points to hold for 3-4 and level it, before suffering a service meltdown again and hitting three double faults in four points. Kanepi was made to work for her victory after being unable to close the match from 40-0 up as Sabalenka saved four matchpoints to break back, before the pair traded holds to take the deciding set into a tiebreaker. The Estonian finally prevailed in the tiebreak, taking advantage of a string of unforced errors from Sabalenka to convert her fifth matchpoint and complete the upset. "I think I would be more happy if I won after two, three matchpoints," Kanepi told reporters. "It was really close, I almost lost the match. "My hand was shaking when I started serving in that game. I didn`t make any first serves in, and that added to the pressure. "I almost didn`t (recover). I guess I was just lucky at the end. So close." Read Also | Australian open: Stefanos Tsitsipas moves into quarterfinals with win over Taylor Fritz Sabalenka expressed disappointment in her performance but said there were still positives to take from the defeat. "I had all the opportunities and I didn`t use it," Sabalenka said. "I would say I started well but I lost focus and it became really emotional. I couldn`t find a way back. "Compared to the beginning of the season, I`m really happy that I was able to kind of find the rhythm on my serve. So there is still something positive." Kanepi will take on 2020 French Open champion Iga Swiatek, who beat Sorana Cirstea 5-7 6-3 6-3 earlier on Monday, for a place in the semi-finals. The world number 115 has reached the quarter-finals of a Grand Slam on six previous occasions, most recently in the 2017 U.S. Open, but has never managed to progress beyond the last eight.

Australian Open: Kaia Kanepi upsets Aryna Sabalenka to reach last eight in Melbourne

Rafa Nadal faces a tricky test in his quest for a men`s record 21st Grand Slam title when he takes on Denis Shapovalov in the Australian Open quarter-finals on Tuesday, but the Spaniard is relishing another battle with his fellow left-hander.

World number one Ash Barty steps up her bid to emulate Chris O`Neil and give Australia a first home women`s singles champion at Melbourne Park since 1978. Standing in her way is American 21st seed Jessica Pegula, who has never reached the semi-finals.

Nadal returned to action on the ATP Tour for the first time since Aug. 5 earlier this month and has slowly moved into top gear at the first major of the year, reaching the last eight after a gritty performance against Frenchman Adrian Mannarino.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/australian-open-stefanos-tsitsipas-moves-into-quarterfinals-with-win-over-taylor-fritz-447201">Australian open: Stefanos Tsitsipas moves into quarterfinals with win over Taylor Fritz</a>

The sixth seed expects another challenging encounter against Canadian Shapovalov, who beat him as a teenager in their first meeting on the hard courts at Montreal in 2017, although the 35-year-old has since improved the head-to-head record to 3-1.

"It`s going to be a tough one for me ... It`s a match to try my best, to play at my highest level if I want to have chances to go through," Nadal told reporters. "Yeah, I`m excited about it. I didn`t expect to be where I am weeks ago."

Resurgent American Madison Keys, a former U.S. Open runner-up, meets Czech fourth seed and French Open champion Barbora Krejcikova in an intriguing contest. Big-serving Italian seventh seed Matteo Berrettini takes on Frenchman Gael Monfils.

Rafa Nadal faces a tricky test in his quest for a men`s record 21st Grand Slam title when he takes on Denis Shapovalov in the Australian Open quarter-finals on Tuesday, but the Spaniard is relishing another battle with his fellow left-hander.

Rafa Nadal faces a tricky test in his quest for a men`s record 21st Grand Slam title when he takes on Denis Shapovalov in the Australian Open quarter-finals on Tuesday, but the Spaniard is relishing another battle with his fellow left-hander. World number one Ash Barty steps up her bid to emulate Chris O`Neil and give Australia a first home women`s singles champion at Melbourne Park since 1978. Standing in her way is American 21st seed Jessica Pegula, who has never reached the semi-finals. Nadal returned to action on the ATP Tour for the first time since Aug. 5 earlier this month and has slowly moved into top gear at the first major of the year, reaching the last eight after a gritty performance against Frenchman Adrian Mannarino. Read Also | Australian open: Stefanos Tsitsipas moves into quarterfinals with win over Taylor Fritz The sixth seed expects another challenging encounter against Canadian Shapovalov, who beat him as a teenager in their first meeting on the hard courts at Montreal in 2017, although the 35-year-old has since improved the head-to-head record to 3-1. "It`s going to be a tough one for me ... It`s a match to try my best, to play at my highest level if I want to have chances to go through," Nadal told reporters. "Yeah, I`m excited about it. I didn`t expect to be where I am weeks ago." Resurgent American Madison Keys, a former U.S. Open runner-up, meets Czech fourth seed and French Open champion Barbora Krejcikova in an intriguing contest. Big-serving Italian seventh seed Matteo Berrettini takes on Frenchman Gael Monfils.

Australian Open: Rafael Nadal gets pumped up by Denis Shapovalov clash in quarters

Fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas survived an attritional fourth-round battle with American Taylor Fritz on Monday, twice coming from a set behind to win 4-6 6-4 4-6 6-3 6-4 and reach the Australian Open quarter-finals.

At just past midnight on Rod Laver Arena the Greek ended Fritz`s resistance to set up a clash with Italian Jannik Sinner when he will be seeking to reach the semi-finals here for the third time in his career.

Tsitsipas looked out of sorts and edgy at times but his greater experience on the big stage eventually told as he got the decisive break in the fifth set before claiming victory.

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Fritz, playing in his first Grand Slam fourth round, converted only two of his 15 break points and will rue a missed opportunity to become the first American male to reach a Grand Slam quarter-final for two years.

"It was an epic match that`s all I can say, I gave everything out there on the court today," the 23-year-old said. "I`m proud of the way I fought.

"I`m overwhelmed. It`s too good to be true. I knew it was going to be physical, and I knew I had to be patient and in the end it paid off."

Fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas survived an attritional fourth-round battle with American Taylor Fritz on Monday, twice coming from a set behind to win 4-6 6-4 4-6 6-3 6-4 and reach the Australian Open quarter-finals.

Fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas survived an attritional fourth-round battle with American Taylor Fritz on Monday, twice coming from a set behind to win 4-6 6-4 4-6 6-3 6-4 and reach the Australian Open quarter-finals. At just past midnight on Rod Laver Arena the Greek ended Fritz`s resistance to set up a clash with Italian Jannik Sinner when he will be seeking to reach the semi-finals here for the third time in his career. Tsitsipas looked out of sorts and edgy at times but his greater experience on the big stage eventually told as he got the decisive break in the fifth set before claiming victory. Read Also | Australian Open: Jannick Sinner ousts Alex De Minaur to reach quarterfinals Fritz, playing in his first Grand Slam fourth round, converted only two of his 15 break points and will rue a missed opportunity to become the first American male to reach a Grand Slam quarter-final for two years. "It was an epic match that`s all I can say, I gave everything out there on the court today," the 23-year-old said. "I`m proud of the way I fought. "I`m overwhelmed. It`s too good to be true. I knew it was going to be physical, and I knew I had to be patient and in the end it paid off."

Australian open: Stefanos Tsitsipas moves into quarterfinals with win over Taylor Fritz

Italian Jannick Sinner reached the Australian Open quarter-finals for the first time with a convincing victory over local hope Alex de Minaur on Monday.

Sinner, who also reached the last eight on his French Open debut in 2020, came through a testing opening set to win 7-6(3) 6-3 6-4 in two hours and 35 minutes.

The 11th seed will play the winner of the clash between Greek fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas and American Taylor Fritz, who play later on Monday on Rod Laver Arena.

"In the beginning, I was serving well. He had more chances than me in the first set and after that, I tried to push a little bit more," Sinner said.

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"I have gained a lot of experience in the last couple of months and I think I have grown as a player and a person."

De Minaur had chances to break the Italian in the opening two service games but was unable to convert the opportunities. 
In the tiebreaker, Sinner was able to stretch away from his rival to gain the initial advantage in an opening set that lasted an hour and 11 minutes.

Sinner carried the momentum into the second set when breaking the 32nd-seeded Australian to lead 2-0 and broke his opponent`s serve again in the third set.

De Minaur broke back but Sinner`s brilliant shot-making proved too good for him.

Italian Jannick Sinner reached the Australian Open quarter-finals for the first time with a convincing victory over local hope Alex de Minaur on Monday. Sinner, who also reached the last eight on his French Open debut in 2020, came through a testing opening set to win 7-6(3) 6-3 6-4 in two hours and 35 minutes.

Italian Jannick Sinner reached the Australian Open quarter-finals for the first time with a convincing victory over local hope Alex de Minaur on Monday. Sinner, who also reached the last eight on his French Open debut in 2020, came through a testing opening set to win 7-6(3) 6-3 6-4 in two hours and 35 minutes. The 11th seed will play the winner of the clash between Greek fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas and American Taylor Fritz, who play later on Monday on Rod Laver Arena. "In the beginning, I was serving well. He had more chances than me in the first set and after that, I tried to push a little bit more," Sinner said. Read Also | Daniil Medvedev loses temper but beats Maxime Cressy to reach quarter-finals of Australian Open "I have gained a lot of experience in the last couple of months and I think I have grown as a player and a person." De Minaur had chances to break the Italian in the opening two service games but was unable to convert the opportunities. In the tiebreaker, Sinner was able to stretch away from his rival to gain the initial advantage in an opening set that lasted an hour and 11 minutes. Sinner carried the momentum into the second set when breaking the 32nd-seeded Australian to lead 2-0 and broke his opponent`s serve again in the third set. De Minaur broke back but Sinner`s brilliant shot-making proved too good for him.

Australian Open: Jannick Sinner ousts Alex De Minaur to reach quarterfinals

An agitated Daniil Medvedev teed off at the chair umpire and lost his cool in the heat before steadying to claim a 6-2 7-6(4) 6-7(4) 7-5 win over Maxime Cressy and book his second Australian Open quarter-final on Monday.

The Russian second seed found the American serve-and-volley exponent a tough nut to crack at Margaret Court Arena and his frustration spilled over after losing the third set.

Apparently refused a request to leave the court to freshen up, Medvedev barked at the French chair umpire Renaud Lichtenstein and complained that Cressy was spending too much time between serves.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/ashleigh-barty-makes-it-to-australian-open-quarterfinals-after-defeating-amanda-anisimova-446902">Ashleigh Barty makes it to Australian Open quarterfinals after defeating Amanda Anisimova</a>

Medvedev`s frustration only grew as eight break points slipped through his fingers in the fourth set before he finally slipped a forehand past the American in the 11th game to take his serve.

Medvedev wrapped up proceedings with a slew of huge serves before stepping in to thrash a forehand winner on match point. 
Last year`s finalist, Medvedev next meets Felix Auger-Aliassime for a place in the semi-finals.

An agitated Daniil Medvedev teed off at the chair umpire and lost his cool in the heat before steadying to claim a 6-2 7-6(4) 6-7(4) 7-5 win over Maxime Cressy and book his second Australian Open quarter-final on Monday.

An agitated Daniil Medvedev teed off at the chair umpire and lost his cool in the heat before steadying to claim a 6-2 7-6(4) 6-7(4) 7-5 win over Maxime Cressy and book his second Australian Open quarter-final on Monday. The Russian second seed found the American serve-and-volley exponent a tough nut to crack at Margaret Court Arena and his frustration spilled over after losing the third set. Apparently refused a request to leave the court to freshen up, Medvedev barked at the French chair umpire Renaud Lichtenstein and complained that Cressy was spending too much time between serves. Read Also | Ashleigh Barty makes it to Australian Open quarterfinals after defeating Amanda Anisimova Medvedev`s frustration only grew as eight break points slipped through his fingers in the fourth set before he finally slipped a forehand past the American in the 11th game to take his serve. Medvedev wrapped up proceedings with a slew of huge serves before stepping in to thrash a forehand winner on match point. Last year`s finalist, Medvedev next meets Felix Auger-Aliassime for a place in the semi-finals.

Daniil Medvedev loses temper but beats Maxime Cressy to reach quarter-finals of Australian Open

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