France crashed out of the Davis Cup Friday when&nbsp;world No.3 Carlos Alcaraz beat Ugo Humbert 6-3, 6-3 in the second rubber in Valencia with a convincing display. Earlier, the defeat of Arthur Fils to Roberto Bautista 2-6, 7-5, 6-3 put France 1-0 down and&nbsp;Humbert was unable to revive the French against a solid Alcaraz in front of a home crowd.

Since the reform of the Davis Cup in 2019, France has never managed to get beyond the group stage.

Spain and Australia with two successes each have booked their ticket for the Final 8 in Malaga at the end of November and will compete for the head of this group B on Sunday.

"It was the goal since the beginning of the week, to qualify for Malaga," Alcaraz said. "I was really, really focused, I was on a really high level of tennis and it's one of the best matches that I've played this year.

"Seeing my last month, I needed this kind of match and I'm really happy with my performance today."

The United States booked their ticket to final eight series with a 3-0 win over Slovakia in Zuhai earlier Friday, with Germany also advancing.

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Mackenzie McDonald beat Lukas Klein 6-4, 6-3 in the opening singles rubber before Brandon Nakashima eased past Jozef Kovalik 6-3, 6-3 to give the Americans an unassailable 2-0 lead.

Austin Krajicek and Rajeev Ram then teamed up in the doubles to battle past Klein and Norbert Gombos 6-7 (4/7), 7-6 (7/4), 10-1.

Bob Bryan's US team, playing without top players including US Open runner-up Taylor Fritz and semi-finalist Frances Tiafoe, also beat Chile 3-0 earlier this week.

The US victory meant Group C rivals Germany also qualified for the Final 8 which will be held in Malaga in November 19-24.

Germany and the US will go head-to-head for top spot in their final group game on Saturday which will determine their seeding for Malaga.

Sixteen countries are competing in the group stage finals in four cities with the top two from each group advancing to the eight-team final.

"It means a lot," said 40th-ranked Nakashima. "To be able to be in this position right now, to be clinching that spot, it's very important for us."

The US, 32-times tournament winners, most recently in 2007, failed to progress out of the group stage finals last year after defeats to the Netherlands and Finland.

McDonald, ranked 149, has been returning from an injury-plagued season.

"I'm really proud of myself for performing well today and putting the team on the board," he said.

Later Friday, reigning champions Italy will bid for a second Group A win against Belgium in Bologna with Great Britain and Argentina playing in Group D in Manchester, England.

France crashed out of the Davis Cup Friday when world No.3 Carlos Alcaraz beat Ugo Humbert 6-3, 6-3 in the second rubber in Valencia with a convincing display. Earlier, the defeat of Arthur Fils to Roberto Bautista 2-6, 7-5, 6-3 put France 1-0 down and Humbert was unable to revive the French against a solid Alcaraz in front of a home crowd.

France crashed out of the Davis Cup Friday when world No.3 Carlos Alcaraz beat Ugo Humbert 6-3, 6-3 in the second rubber in Valencia with a convincing display. Earlier, the defeat of Arthur Fils to Roberto Bautista 2-6, 7-5, 6-3 put France 1-0 down and Humbert was unable to revive the French against a solid Alcaraz in front of a home crowd. Since the reform of the Davis Cup in 2019, France has never managed to get beyond the group stage. Spain and Australia with two successes each have booked their ticket for the Final 8 in Malaga at the end of November and will compete for the head of this group B on Sunday. "It was the goal since the beginning of the week, to qualify for Malaga," Alcaraz said. "I was really, really focused, I was on a really high level of tennis and it's one of the best matches that I've played this year. "Seeing my last month, I needed this kind of match and I'm really happy with my performance today." The United States booked their ticket to final eight series with a 3-0 win over Slovakia in Zuhai earlier Friday, with Germany also advancing. ALSO READ: Pep Guardiola ‘happy’ that Manchester City’s hearing into 115 charges to begin on Monday Mackenzie McDonald beat Lukas Klein 6-4, 6-3 in the opening singles rubber before Brandon Nakashima eased past Jozef Kovalik 6-3, 6-3 to give the Americans an unassailable 2-0 lead. Austin Krajicek and Rajeev Ram then teamed up in the doubles to battle past Klein and Norbert Gombos 6-7 (4/7), 7-6 (7/4), 10-1. Bob Bryan's US team, playing without top players including US Open runner-up Taylor Fritz and semi-finalist Frances Tiafoe, also beat Chile 3-0 earlier this week. The US victory meant Group C rivals Germany also qualified for the Final 8 which will be held in Malaga in November 19-24. Germany and the US will go head-to-head for top spot in their final group game on Saturday which will determine their seeding for Malaga. Sixteen countries are competing in the group stage finals in four cities with the top two from each group advancing to the eight-team final. "It means a lot," said 40th-ranked Nakashima. "To be able to be in this position right now, to be clinching that spot, it's very important for us." The US, 32-times tournament winners, most recently in 2007, failed to progress out of the group stage finals last year after defeats to the Netherlands and Finland. McDonald, ranked 149, has been returning from an injury-plagued season. "I'm really proud of myself for performing well today and putting the team on the board," he said. Later Friday, reigning champions Italy will bid for a second Group A win against Belgium in Bologna with Great Britain and Argentina playing in Group D in Manchester, England.

Davis Cup 2024: Carlos Alcaraz powers Spain to Last 8, USA, Australia and Germany also qualify

Carlos Alcaraz returned to action after his shock US Open loss to help Spain get off to a winning start in the Davis Cup on Wednesday. The 21-year-old French Open and Wimbledon winner was knocked out of the Flushing Meadows Grand Slam in the second round last month.

With time on his hands he made an impromptu trip to Monza to watch the Formula One Italian Grand Prix then was back on court in Valencia as Spain opened their group stage finals campaign against the Czech Republic.

Roberto Bautista Agut bagged Spain's first point with a 7-6 (7/1), 6-4 win over Jiri Lehecka. Alcaraz then entered the frey, recovering from a 6-7 (3/7) first-set loss to Tomas Machac to wipe the floor in the second 6-1 before Machac retired.

Alcaraz followed that up by partnering Marcel Granollers to a tense 6-7 (2/7), 6-3, 7-6 (7/2) doubles win over Jakub Mensik and Adam Pavlasek to claim the Group B tie 3-0. Earlier in China, the United States began their hunt for a record-extending 33rd Davis Cup title by sweeping aside Chile.

Bob Bryan's side belied their underdog status in terms of rankings to down the more fancied South Americans 3-0 in their group stage opener in Zhuhai. They may have won the first of their record haul in the inaugural edition of the annual men's team competition in 1900.

But the last time they picked up the famous 'salad bowl' trophy was back in 2007. At the Hengqin international tennis centre, world number 309 Reilly Opelka, no. 40 Brandon Nakashima and doubles duo Austin Krajicek and Rajeev Ram proved too strong for Nicolas Massu's men.

Opelka got the first point on the board for the Americans, beating Cristian Garin 6-3, 4-6, 7-6 (7/3). Next up was Nakashima, who enjoyed a dream Davis Cup debut, downing world number 22 Alejandro Tabilo 7-6 (7/5), 2-6, 7-6 (7/3).

Then it was the turn of Paris Olympic silver medallists Krajicek and Ram to carry on the good work, despatching Tomas Barrios Vera and Matias Soto 4-6, 6-4, 7-6 (7/3). Given the closeness of the three matches which all went down to deciding set tie-breaks it was little wonder Bryan described it as "an epic day of tennis".

Bryan, who with his twin brother Mike won 16 Grand Slam doubles titles and was part of the 2007 Davis Cup title-winning team, added: "Everyone showed a lot of heart, a lot of guts.

"Hats off to the Chileans. Hats off to our guys who were really digging deep, especially in the big moments. "I don't think it's ever happened in Davis Cup that all matches went to the third set breaker -- historic day. Just feeling very, very proud of the players."

Also read:&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Amazing' -</h2>

Opelka, who underwent wrist surgery in July, reflected: "Being the underdog in the tie, it's great to start with a win." Despite his recent operation he fired 27 aces en route to victory, saying: "My serve's the shot that had been taking me the longest to get back since my injury.

"I didn't serve well at the US Open, but every week it's been getting better and better." Nakashima meanwhile was basking in banking his first Davis Cup point at the first attempt. "It feels amazing. It was my first Davis Cup win and to do it like that was super special."

The Americans have a day off now before Friday's next Group C clash with Slovakia, hurting after Tuesday's 3-0 loss to Germany, who take on Chile on Thursday. The USA are aiming to make it out of the group stage to progress to the finals for the first time since 2022.

Over in Manchester, Britain beat Finland 2-1 thanks to singles wins from Dan Evans and Billy Harris. And in Bologna, defending champions Italy, without newly minted US champion Jannik Sinner, secured a win over Brazil thanks to singles victories for Matteo Berrettini and Matteo Arnaldi.

The top two nations in each of the four groups in the round robin phase will qualify for the eight-team final in Malaga, Spain from November 19-24.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Carlos Alcaraz returned to action after his shock US Open loss to help Spain get off to a winning start in the Davis Cup on Wednesday. The 21-year-old French Open and Wimbledon winner was knocked out of the Flushing Meadows Grand Slam in the second round last month.

Carlos Alcaraz returned to action after his shock US Open loss to help Spain get off to a winning start in the Davis Cup on Wednesday. The 21-year-old French Open and Wimbledon winner was knocked out of the Flushing Meadows Grand Slam in the second round last month. With time on his hands he made an impromptu trip to Monza to watch the Formula One Italian Grand Prix then was back on court in Valencia as Spain opened their group stage finals campaign against the Czech Republic. Roberto Bautista Agut bagged Spain's first point with a 7-6 (7/1), 6-4 win over Jiri Lehecka. Alcaraz then entered the frey, recovering from a 6-7 (3/7) first-set loss to Tomas Machac to wipe the floor in the second 6-1 before Machac retired. Alcaraz followed that up by partnering Marcel Granollers to a tense 6-7 (2/7), 6-3, 7-6 (7/2) doubles win over Jakub Mensik and Adam Pavlasek to claim the Group B tie 3-0. Earlier in China, the United States began their hunt for a record-extending 33rd Davis Cup title by sweeping aside Chile. Bob Bryan's side belied their underdog status in terms of rankings to down the more fancied South Americans 3-0 in their group stage opener in Zhuhai. They may have won the first of their record haul in the inaugural edition of the annual men's team competition in 1900. But the last time they picked up the famous 'salad bowl' trophy was back in 2007. At the Hengqin international tennis centre, world number 309 Reilly Opelka, no. 40 Brandon Nakashima and doubles duo Austin Krajicek and Rajeev Ram proved too strong for Nicolas Massu's men. Opelka got the first point on the board for the Americans, beating Cristian Garin 6-3, 4-6, 7-6 (7/3). Next up was Nakashima, who enjoyed a dream Davis Cup debut, downing world number 22 Alejandro Tabilo 7-6 (7/5), 2-6, 7-6 (7/3). Then it was the turn of Paris Olympic silver medallists Krajicek and Ram to carry on the good work, despatching Tomas Barrios Vera and Matias Soto 4-6, 6-4, 7-6 (7/3). Given the closeness of the three matches which all went down to deciding set tie-breaks it was little wonder Bryan described it as "an epic day of tennis". Bryan, who with his twin brother Mike won 16 Grand Slam doubles titles and was part of the 2007 Davis Cup title-winning team, added: "Everyone showed a lot of heart, a lot of guts. "Hats off to the Chileans. Hats off to our guys who were really digging deep, especially in the big moments. "I don't think it's ever happened in Davis Cup that all matches went to the third set breaker -- historic day. Just feeling very, very proud of the players." Also read: - 'Amazing' - Opelka, who underwent wrist surgery in July, reflected: "Being the underdog in the tie, it's great to start with a win." Despite his recent operation he fired 27 aces en route to victory, saying: "My serve's the shot that had been taking me the longest to get back since my injury. "I didn't serve well at the US Open, but every week it's been getting better and better." Nakashima meanwhile was basking in banking his first Davis Cup point at the first attempt. "It feels amazing. It was my first Davis Cup win and to do it like that was super special." The Americans have a day off now before Friday's next Group C clash with Slovakia, hurting after Tuesday's 3-0 loss to Germany, who take on Chile on Thursday. The USA are aiming to make it out of the group stage to progress to the finals for the first time since 2022. Over in Manchester, Britain beat Finland 2-1 thanks to singles wins from Dan Evans and Billy Harris. And in Bologna, defending champions Italy, without newly minted US champion Jannik Sinner, secured a win over Brazil thanks to singles victories for Matteo Berrettini and Matteo Arnaldi. The top two nations in each of the four groups in the round robin phase will qualify for the eight-team final in Malaga, Spain from November 19-24. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Carlos Alcaraz-starrer Spain, 'epic' USA off the mark in Davis Cup

On Friday (Aug 30), the third seed&nbsp;Carlos Alcaraz&nbsp;bowed out of the ongoing US Open 2024 edition in a shock defeat to Netherlands'&nbsp;Botic van de Zandschulp&nbsp;in the second round of the men's singles. The Spaniard&nbsp;lost to Zandschulp in straight sets, 1-6, 5-7, 4-6 at the Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York. With this, the&nbsp;world number three's bid to become only the third man in the modern era to win the French Open, Wimbledon and US Open in the same season also came to an end.

Notably, the 21-year-old Alcaraz had at least reached&nbsp;the quarterfinals in his three previous appearances in New York, however,&nbsp;his latest defeat marks his earliest exit at a Grand Slam following his second-round ouster at the Wimbledon in 2021.

Following his win over Alcaraz, Dutchman van de Zandschulp said, "I'm a little lost for words. It was an incredible evening out here in my first time in the night session on Arthur Ashe. I had some unbelievable points at the net. I tried to stay calm. You have to keep your head against these guys otherwise they will take advantage."

This became Van de Zandschulp's&nbsp;second career win over a top five player.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-us-open-2024-jannik-sinner-on-course-for-semifinal-duel-with-carlos-alcaraz-naomi-osaka-crashes-out-754483">US Open 2024: Jannik Sinner on course for semifinal duel with Carlos Alcaraz, Naomi Osaka crashes out</a>

Alcaraz came into the contest with his left thigh heavily strapped. He had even struggled to win convincingly in the first round, needing four sets to see off Australian qualifier Li Tu. However, the strapping proved least of his problems with the Spanish sensation clearly looking off colours.&nbsp;

He dropped serve twice in the opening set,&nbsp;squandered break points in the second game of the second set as his mistakes proved costly. In the second set, the Dutchman made Alcaraz pay the price with a break of his own for a 2-1 lead in front of a stunned crowd. While the 2022 champion levelled the score at 2-2, Van de Zandschulp stormed past him and eventually took the penultimate set (7-5) when&nbsp;Alcaraz fired a service return wide.

The script remained the same in the third set as Van de Zandschulp dominated and claimed victory when Alcaraz fired his 27th and final unforced error of the one-sided affair. Thus, this became the Dutchman's first win over the Spaniard.

Additionally, Van de Zandschulp became&nbsp;the first Dutchman to defeat a top three player at a Grand Slam since Richard Krajicek went past former world&nbsp;number one Pete Sampras in the 1996 Wimbledon&nbsp;quarters. Moreover, he is the first from Netherlands&nbsp;to achieve the feat at the US Open since his coach Paul Haarhuis ended Boris Becker's run&nbsp;in the third round of the 1991 edition.

On Friday (Aug 30), the third seed Carlos Alcaraz bowed out of the ongoing US Open 2024 edition in a shock defeat to Netherlands' Botic van de Zandschulp in the second round of the men's singles.

On Friday (Aug 30), the third seed Carlos Alcaraz bowed out of the ongoing US Open 2024 edition in a shock defeat to Netherlands' Botic van de Zandschulp in the second round of the men's singles. The Spaniard lost to Zandschulp in straight sets, 1-6, 5-7, 4-6 at the Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York. With this, the world number three's bid to become only the third man in the modern era to win the French Open, Wimbledon and US Open in the same season also came to an end. Notably, the 21-year-old Alcaraz had at least reached the quarterfinals in his three previous appearances in New York, however, his latest defeat marks his earliest exit at a Grand Slam following his second-round ouster at the Wimbledon in 2021. Following his win over Alcaraz, Dutchman van de Zandschulp said, "I'm a little lost for words. It was an incredible evening out here in my first time in the night session on Arthur Ashe. I had some unbelievable points at the net. I tried to stay calm. You have to keep your head against these guys otherwise they will take advantage." This became Van de Zandschulp's second career win over a top five player. Also read: US Open 2024: Jannik Sinner on course for semifinal duel with Carlos Alcaraz, Naomi Osaka crashes out Alcaraz came into the contest with his left thigh heavily strapped. He had even struggled to win convincingly in the first round, needing four sets to see off Australian qualifier Li Tu. However, the strapping proved least of his problems with the Spanish sensation clearly looking off colours. He dropped serve twice in the opening set, squandered break points in the second game of the second set as his mistakes proved costly. In the second set, the Dutchman made Alcaraz pay the price with a break of his own for a 2-1 lead in front of a stunned crowd. While the 2022 champion levelled the score at 2-2, Van de Zandschulp stormed past him and eventually took the penultimate set (7-5) when Alcaraz fired a service return wide. The script remained the same in the third set as Van de Zandschulp dominated and claimed victory when Alcaraz fired his 27th and final unforced error of the one-sided affair. Thus, this became the Dutchman's first win over the Spaniard. Additionally, Van de Zandschulp became the first Dutchman to defeat a top three player at a Grand Slam since Richard Krajicek went past former world number one Pete Sampras in the 1996 Wimbledon quarters. Moreover, he is the first from Netherlands to achieve the feat at the US Open since his coach Paul Haarhuis ended Boris Becker's run in the third round of the 1991 edition.

US Open 2024: Carlos Alcaraz crashes out in shock defeat to Botic van de Zandschulp in second round

Jannik Sinner won his 50th match of the year on Thursday to stay on course for a US Open semi-final duel with Carlos Alcaraz while two-time champion Naomi Osaka's colourful return to New York ended in a dispiriting second round defeat. World number one Sinner beat America's 49th-ranked Alex Michelsen 6-4, 6-0, 6-2 to make the last 32 for a fourth successive year. The 23-year-old Italian unleashed 28 winners and broke serve eight times.

"He's a very tough opponent. We played each other in Cincinnati. I knew what to expect," said Australian Open champion Sinner. Sinner went on to claim his fifth title of the season in Cincinnati.&nbsp;

A day later it was revealed that he had escaped a ban despite twice testing positive for an anabolic agent in March, authorities accepting his explanation that the result was the result of contamination. Sinner will face Australia's Christopher O'Connell for a place in the last 16.

Alcaraz, the 2022 champion, is seeded to meet Sinner in the semi-finals and is bidding to become just the third man in the modern era to win the French Open, Wimbledon and US Open in the same year.

The charismatic 21-year-old Spaniard took on former quarter-finalist Botic van de Zandschulp in the late match on the Arthur Ashe Stadium.

<h2>- 'Cherry on top' -</h2>

The winner of that tie will next face Jack Draper after the 25th-seeded Briton swept past Facundo Díaz Acosta of Argentina in straight sets. Osaka, the 2018 and 2020 champion, went down to defeat to 2023 semi-finalist Karolina Muchova of the Czech Republic as her comeback from maternity leave remained stalled.

Four-time major winner Osaka missed last year's tournament after giving birth to daughter Shai but she made up for that absence in the first round. The Japanese star brushed aside former French Open winner Jelena Ostapenko with a dazzling display to match her show-stopping outfit.

Osaka appeared on court wearing a giant green bow on the back of her jacket, a tutu and small bows tied to the heels of her shoes. On Thursday night, she switched green for black but the 26-year-old went down to a 6-3, 7-6 (7/5) defeat, leaving her without a third round appearance at the majors since the 2022 Australian Open.

Osaka blew three set points in the second set before a wild forehand -- her 21st unforced error of the contest -- sealed her fate. Muchova, a semi-finalist last year, will meet Russia's Anastasia Potapova for a last 16 spot.

"Honestly this year the biggest win for me is that I could play again," said Muchova who picked up a wrist injury at last year's US Open which sidelined her for nine months. "I'm really grateful I'm able to play tennis and that I made it here. This is just the cherry on top to be here in this stadium. It's crazy.”

World number one Iga Swiatek charged into the third round, routing 217th-ranked Ena Shibahara of Japan 6-0, 6-1 to record her 55th match win of the year. Poland's Swiatek, the 2022 US Open winner who is seeking to add a second title in New York to her four French Open triumphs, overwhelmed the 26-year-old qualifier, who was in the main draw of a Grand Slam for the first time, in just 65 minutes.

She committed only six unforced errors and goes on to face 25th seed Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova who was a quarter-finalist in New York 13 years ago.

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<h2>- Rybakina withdraws -</h2>

Swiatek then saw likely semi-final opponent Elena Rybakina withdraw from the tournament ahead of her second round clash with 143rd-ranked French qualifier Jessika Ponchet. Rybakina issued a statement saying she was forced to withdraw "because of my injuries".

Karolina Pliskova, the 2016 runner-up, suffered a left ankle injury and was forced to retire from her match with fifth-seed Jasmine Paolini after just three points.

"I hope she recovers soon because it's sad to see her leave the court like this. We didn't really play a match," said French Open and Wimbledon runner-up Paolini.

Polish seventh seed Hubert Hurkacz became the highest ranked man to fall when he lost in straights sets to Australia's Jordan Thompson. US 16th seed Sebastian Korda was also eliminated in straight sets at the hands of Tomas Machac of the Czech Republic.

However, fourth seed and 2021 champion Daniil Medvedev defeated Hungary's Fabian Marozsan in straight sets

Jannik Sinner won his 50th match of the year on Thursday to stay on course for a US Open semi-final duel with Carlos Alcaraz while two-time champion Naomi Osaka's colourful return to New York ended in a dispiriting second round defeat.

Jannik Sinner won his 50th match of the year on Thursday to stay on course for a US Open semi-final duel with Carlos Alcaraz while two-time champion Naomi Osaka's colourful return to New York ended in a dispiriting second round defeat. World number one Sinner beat America's 49th-ranked Alex Michelsen 6-4, 6-0, 6-2 to make the last 32 for a fourth successive year. The 23-year-old Italian unleashed 28 winners and broke serve eight times. "He's a very tough opponent. We played each other in Cincinnati. I knew what to expect," said Australian Open champion Sinner. Sinner went on to claim his fifth title of the season in Cincinnati. A day later it was revealed that he had escaped a ban despite twice testing positive for an anabolic agent in March, authorities accepting his explanation that the result was the result of contamination. Sinner will face Australia's Christopher O'Connell for a place in the last 16. Alcaraz, the 2022 champion, is seeded to meet Sinner in the semi-finals and is bidding to become just the third man in the modern era to win the French Open, Wimbledon and US Open in the same year. The charismatic 21-year-old Spaniard took on former quarter-finalist Botic van de Zandschulp in the late match on the Arthur Ashe Stadium. - 'Cherry on top' - The winner of that tie will next face Jack Draper after the 25th-seeded Briton swept past Facundo Díaz Acosta of Argentina in straight sets. Osaka, the 2018 and 2020 champion, went down to defeat to 2023 semi-finalist Karolina Muchova of the Czech Republic as her comeback from maternity leave remained stalled. Four-time major winner Osaka missed last year's tournament after giving birth to daughter Shai but she made up for that absence in the first round. The Japanese star brushed aside former French Open winner Jelena Ostapenko with a dazzling display to match her show-stopping outfit. Osaka appeared on court wearing a giant green bow on the back of her jacket, a tutu and small bows tied to the heels of her shoes. On Thursday night, she switched green for black but the 26-year-old went down to a 6-3, 7-6 (7/5) defeat, leaving her without a third round appearance at the majors since the 2022 Australian Open. Osaka blew three set points in the second set before a wild forehand -- her 21st unforced error of the contest -- sealed her fate. Muchova, a semi-finalist last year, will meet Russia's Anastasia Potapova for a last 16 spot. "Honestly this year the biggest win for me is that I could play again," said Muchova who picked up a wrist injury at last year's US Open which sidelined her for nine months. "I'm really grateful I'm able to play tennis and that I made it here. This is just the cherry on top to be here in this stadium. It's crazy.” World number one Iga Swiatek charged into the third round, routing 217th-ranked Ena Shibahara of Japan 6-0, 6-1 to record her 55th match win of the year. Poland's Swiatek, the 2022 US Open winner who is seeking to add a second title in New York to her four French Open triumphs, overwhelmed the 26-year-old qualifier, who was in the main draw of a Grand Slam for the first time, in just 65 minutes. She committed only six unforced errors and goes on to face 25th seed Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova who was a quarter-finalist in New York 13 years ago. Also read: Novak Djokovic tackles Laslo Djere, Coco Gauff shines under US Open lights - Rybakina withdraws - Swiatek then saw likely semi-final opponent Elena Rybakina withdraw from the tournament ahead of her second round clash with 143rd-ranked French qualifier Jessika Ponchet. Rybakina issued a statement saying she was forced to withdraw "because of my injuries". Karolina Pliskova, the 2016 runner-up, suffered a left ankle injury and was forced to retire from her match with fifth-seed Jasmine Paolini after just three points. "I hope she recovers soon because it's sad to see her leave the court like this. We didn't really play a match," said French Open and Wimbledon runner-up Paolini. Polish seventh seed Hubert Hurkacz became the highest ranked man to fall when he lost in straights sets to Australia's Jordan Thompson. US 16th seed Sebastian Korda was also eliminated in straight sets at the hands of Tomas Machac of the Czech Republic. However, fourth seed and 2021 champion Daniil Medvedev defeated Hungary's Fabian Marozsan in straight sets

US Open 2024: Jannik Sinner on course for semifinal duel with Carlos Alcaraz, Naomi Osaka crashes out

Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz survived US Open first round wobbles on Tuesday to stay on course for a semi-final showdown as two-time champion Naomi Osaka made a tearful and colourful return to Flushing Meadows.

World number one Sinner fought back from a set and break down to defeat 140th-ranked Mackenzie McDonald in his first match since being embroiled in a doping test controversy.

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Alcaraz, the third seed and 2022 champion in New York, overcame a second set blip to defeat 186th-ranked qualifier Li Tu of Australia 6-2, 4-6, 6-3, 6-1.

Italian Sinner battled to a 2-6, 6-2, 6-1, 6-2 win over American opponent McDonald on Arthur Ashe Stadium, racing away with 18 of the last 22 games.

The 23-year-old was returning to action just a week after it was revealed he had failed two drug tests in March.

However, he escaped a lengthy ban when officials decided he wasn't at fault for the presence of banned anabolic agent clostebol in his system.

"The response from fans, I feel it has been great, also throughout when the news came out, in the practice sessions, there was a lot of support," said Sinner.

"It's still a little bit not easy. You have to go through day by day."

Alcaraz, who won the first of his four Grand Slam titles in New York in 2022, opened the night session against Tu who hasn't won a match on the main tour this year.

<h2>'He surprised me'</h2>

However, Tu thrilled the crowd as he went about his task of facing a player who is attempting to become only the third man in the modern era to win the French Open, Wimbledon and US Open in the same year.

After being outplayed in the opening set, Tu levelled the tie on a fifth set point in the second.

But Alcaraz crushed any hint of a shock result by running away with the clash to record his 15th successive Grand Slam match win.

"He surprised me a little bit. In the first set, he was nervous but after that he grew into it and played great tennis," said the Spanish star.

Naomi Osaka, who missed last year's tournament after giving birth to her daughter Shai, stunned 10th seed Jelena Ostapenko.

Former world number one Osaka, now ranked 88, came through 6-3, 6-2 for her first top 10 win in four years.

The Japanese star crunched nine aces in her 19 winners and committed just five unforced errors to her opponent's 21.

Her tennis was as striking as her outfit. Osaka arrived on court with a brightly-coloured, giant bow on the back of her jacket and a frilly skirt over her playing dress.

To complete the ensemble, the 26-year-old attached small bows to the heels of both shoes.

"Last year I was watching Coco (Gauff) play and I so badly wanted to step on these courts again," said a tearful Osaka, a four-time major winner.&nbsp;

<h2>'Means so much'</h2>

"I didn't know if I could ... just to win this match and just to be in this atmosphere means so much to me."

World number one and 2022 champion Iga Swiatek defeated 104th-ranked Kamilla Rakhimova after having to save three set points in the second set.

French Open champion Swiatek, chasing a second New York title to add to her four triumphs in Paris, saw off the Russian lucky loser 6-4, 7-6 (8/6) to extend her season-leading record to 54 match wins.

However, it was an unconvincing display by the Pole who committed 41 unforced errors.

Fifth-seeded Daniil Medvedev, who shattered Novak Djokovic's dream of a calendar Grand Slam by claiming the 2021 US Open, went through with a four-set victory over Dujan Lajovic.

Greek 11th seed Stefanos Tsitsipas, who has never made the second week at the tournament, was stunned 7-6 (7/5), 4-6, 6-3, 7-5 by Australia's Thanasi Kokkinakis.

Stan Wawrinka, the 2016 champion, failed in his bid to become only the third man in last 50 years to win a main draw match at the tournament at the age of 39 or over.

Wawrinka slipped to a 6-4, 7-6 (7/5), 6-3 loss at the hands of Italian qualifier Mattia Bellucci.

Two former women's champions were knocked out.

Bianca Andreescu, the 2019 winner, lost in three sets to sixth-seeded Jasmine Paolini while 2021 champion Emma Raducanu fell to 2020 Australian Open winner Sofia Kenin.

Britain's Dan Evans defeated 23rd seed Karen Khachanov 6-7 (6/8), 7-6 (7/2), 7-6 (7/4), 4-6, 6-4&nbsp;in the longest match in US Open history, a five-hour, 35-minute epic.

(Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.)

Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz survived US Open first round wobbles on Tuesday to stay on course for a semi-final showdown as two-time champion Naomi Osaka made a tearful and colourful return to Flushing Meadows.

Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz survived US Open first round wobbles on Tuesday to stay on course for a semi-final showdown as two-time champion Naomi Osaka made a tearful and colourful return to Flushing Meadows. World number one Sinner fought back from a set and break down to defeat 140th-ranked Mackenzie McDonald in his first match since being embroiled in a doping test controversy. Also Read: Novak Djokovic begins quest for record Slam run with rusty first-round win Alcaraz, the third seed and 2022 champion in New York, overcame a second set blip to defeat 186th-ranked qualifier Li Tu of Australia 6-2, 4-6, 6-3, 6-1. Italian Sinner battled to a 2-6, 6-2, 6-1, 6-2 win over American opponent McDonald on Arthur Ashe Stadium, racing away with 18 of the last 22 games. The 23-year-old was returning to action just a week after it was revealed he had failed two drug tests in March. However, he escaped a lengthy ban when officials decided he wasn't at fault for the presence of banned anabolic agent clostebol in his system. "The response from fans, I feel it has been great, also throughout when the news came out, in the practice sessions, there was a lot of support," said Sinner. "It's still a little bit not easy. You have to go through day by day." Alcaraz, who won the first of his four Grand Slam titles in New York in 2022, opened the night session against Tu who hasn't won a match on the main tour this year. 'He surprised me' However, Tu thrilled the crowd as he went about his task of facing a player who is attempting to become only the third man in the modern era to win the French Open, Wimbledon and US Open in the same year. After being outplayed in the opening set, Tu levelled the tie on a fifth set point in the second. But Alcaraz crushed any hint of a shock result by running away with the clash to record his 15th successive Grand Slam match win. "He surprised me a little bit. In the first set, he was nervous but after that he grew into it and played great tennis," said the Spanish star. Naomi Osaka, who missed last year's tournament after giving birth to her daughter Shai, stunned 10th seed Jelena Ostapenko. Former world number one Osaka, now ranked 88, came through 6-3, 6-2 for her first top 10 win in four years. The Japanese star crunched nine aces in her 19 winners and committed just five unforced errors to her opponent's 21. Her tennis was as striking as her outfit. Osaka arrived on court with a brightly-coloured, giant bow on the back of her jacket and a frilly skirt over her playing dress. To complete the ensemble, the 26-year-old attached small bows to the heels of both shoes. "Last year I was watching Coco (Gauff) play and I so badly wanted to step on these courts again," said a tearful Osaka, a four-time major winner. 'Means so much' "I didn't know if I could ... just to win this match and just to be in this atmosphere means so much to me." World number one and 2022 champion Iga Swiatek defeated 104th-ranked Kamilla Rakhimova after having to save three set points in the second set. French Open champion Swiatek, chasing a second New York title to add to her four triumphs in Paris, saw off the Russian lucky loser 6-4, 7-6 (8/6) to extend her season-leading record to 54 match wins. However, it was an unconvincing display by the Pole who committed 41 unforced errors. Fifth-seeded Daniil Medvedev, who shattered Novak Djokovic's dream of a calendar Grand Slam by claiming the 2021 US Open, went through with a four-set victory over Dujan Lajovic. Greek 11th seed Stefanos Tsitsipas, who has never made the second week at the tournament, was stunned 7-6 (7/5), 4-6, 6-3, 7-5 by Australia's Thanasi Kokkinakis. Stan Wawrinka, the 2016 champion, failed in his bid to become only the third man in last 50 years to win a main draw match at the tournament at the age of 39 or over. Wawrinka slipped to a 6-4, 7-6 (7/5), 6-3 loss at the hands of Italian qualifier Mattia Bellucci. Two former women's champions were knocked out. Bianca Andreescu, the 2019 winner, lost in three sets to sixth-seeded Jasmine Paolini while 2021 champion Emma Raducanu fell to 2020 Australian Open winner Sofia Kenin. Britain's Dan Evans defeated 23rd seed Karen Khachanov 6-7 (6/8), 7-6 (7/2), 7-6 (7/4), 4-6, 6-4 in the longest match in US Open history, a five-hour, 35-minute epic. (Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.)

US Open: Naomi Osaka makes tearful return as Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz survive first round scare

Serbian superstar Novak Djokovic still feels the pull of tennis history as he aims to become the first man in 16 years to successfully defend his US Open title.

Second-seeded Djokovic, riding the high of his Olympic triumph in Paris, is chasing a raft of records at Flushing Meadows, where he opens his campaign on Monday night against Moldovan qualifier Radu Albot.

The 37-year-old can join Jimmy Connors, Pete Sampras and Roger Federer as the oldest Open era winners of the championship, and with a 25th Grand Slam title claim the outright record for most ever -- a mark he currently shares with Australian great Margaret Court.

He would also become the first man to repeat in New York since Federer won five straight US Opens from 2004-2008.

"I didn't know about that," Djokovic said. "I knew it was probably the case for five, 10 years, but I didn't know it was that long.

"Hopefully that changes this year. That's the goal."

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A victory would see Djokovic extend his streak of years with at least one Grand Slam title to seven. From 2011-23 he was shut out at the majors just once, in 2017.

So far in 2024 the majors have gone to a new generation. Spain's Carlos Alcaraz is chasing a third straight Grand Slam after triumphs at Roland Garros and Wimbledon.

Italian Jannik Sinner won the Australian Open on his way to supplanting Djokovic atop the world rankings.

With Federer retired and Rafael Nadal battling injuries, Djokovic said his budding rivalries with the likes of Alcaraz and Sinner keep him motivated.

"These kind of rivalries that I have with Jannik and Carlos are the kind of matchups that still bring that joy of competition to me and inspire me to really push myself to perfect the game," Djokovic said. "People ask me 'now that you have basically won everything with the golden medal, what else is there to win?'

"I still feel the drive. I still have the competitive spirit. I still want to make more history and enjoy myself on the tour."

Djokovic called the medal ceremony after his Paris Games triumph "probably the most intense emotions I have ever had on a tennis court".

"I think the moment of when I achieved it, how I achieved it, after years of trying, the journey... makes it even more unique."

However, he doesn't envision any let-down as he tries to close out the season with yet another Grand Slam title.

"Grand Slams are the pillars of our sport," Djokovic said. "They are the most important historical tennis events that we have.

"So, if you don't get pumped and inspired to play your best tennis at Grand Slams, it's hard to do that anywhere else."

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Serbian superstar Novak Djokovic still feels the pull of tennis history as he aims to become the first man in 16 years to successfully defend his US Open title. Second-seeded Djokovic, riding the high of his Olympic triumph in Paris, is chasing a raft of records at Flushing Meadows, where he opens his campaign on Monday night against Moldovan qualifier Radu Albot.

Serbian superstar Novak Djokovic still feels the pull of tennis history as he aims to become the first man in 16 years to successfully defend his US Open title. Second-seeded Djokovic, riding the high of his Olympic triumph in Paris, is chasing a raft of records at Flushing Meadows, where he opens his campaign on Monday night against Moldovan qualifier Radu Albot. The 37-year-old can join Jimmy Connors, Pete Sampras and Roger Federer as the oldest Open era winners of the championship, and with a 25th Grand Slam title claim the outright record for most ever -- a mark he currently shares with Australian great Margaret Court. He would also become the first man to repeat in New York since Federer won five straight US Opens from 2004-2008. "I didn't know about that," Djokovic said. "I knew it was probably the case for five, 10 years, but I didn't know it was that long. "Hopefully that changes this year. That's the goal." ALSO READ: Armand Duplantis sets pole vault world record at Silesia Diamond League A victory would see Djokovic extend his streak of years with at least one Grand Slam title to seven. From 2011-23 he was shut out at the majors just once, in 2017. So far in 2024 the majors have gone to a new generation. Spain's Carlos Alcaraz is chasing a third straight Grand Slam after triumphs at Roland Garros and Wimbledon. Italian Jannik Sinner won the Australian Open on his way to supplanting Djokovic atop the world rankings. With Federer retired and Rafael Nadal battling injuries, Djokovic said his budding rivalries with the likes of Alcaraz and Sinner keep him motivated. "These kind of rivalries that I have with Jannik and Carlos are the kind of matchups that still bring that joy of competition to me and inspire me to really push myself to perfect the game," Djokovic said. "People ask me 'now that you have basically won everything with the golden medal, what else is there to win?' "I still feel the drive. I still have the competitive spirit. I still want to make more history and enjoy myself on the tour." Djokovic called the medal ceremony after his Paris Games triumph "probably the most intense emotions I have ever had on a tennis court". "I think the moment of when I achieved it, how I achieved it, after years of trying, the journey... makes it even more unique." However, he doesn't envision any let-down as he tries to close out the season with yet another Grand Slam title. "Grand Slams are the pillars of our sport," Djokovic said. "They are the most important historical tennis events that we have. "So, if you don't get pumped and inspired to play your best tennis at Grand Slams, it's hard to do that anywhere else." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Novak Djokovic chases rafts of records in quest to defend US Open title

Carlos Alcaraz said he will be "at 100%" for the U.S. Open despite stopping his training in New York on Saturday as a precaution after twisting his ankle. Four-time Grand Slam champion Alcaraz has dealt with a number of injuries in recent times, including an ankle injury that forced him to withdraw in the first round of the Rio Open earlier this year.

Alcaraz's injury worries returned on Saturday, leading him to suspend his training session with Argentina's Francisco Cerundolo. However, the Spaniard said he never feared for his participation in tournament.

"I just stopped my practice for precaution. I didn't feel comfortable enough to keep practising just in case if everything is going to be worse," Alcaraz told a news conference. "A few hours later, I feel good, tomorrow I will try to be practising again without thinking about it.

"I wasn't worried at all for my U.S. Open participation. Obviously, I was angry because I don't want to stop the practice, to respect Cerundolo, as well.

"Tomorrow or in two days I'm going to be my at 100%, for sure. It's about time."

The 21-year-old begins his tournament at Flushing Meadows on Tuesday against Australian Li Tu as he chases a second U.S. Open title after winning in 2022.

Alcaraz said he hoped to approach important matches with a better mentality following his disappointment at losing to Novak Djokovic in the final of the Olympics earlier this month.

"It was a difficult moment for me, losing the gold medal in a really close match that I had opportunities," he said. "But in front of me I had a really good player and he deserved it. So, days after the Olympics I realize that I won the silver medal, a great achievement that I have to be proud of.

"I try to keep going and learn about this. The next important matches of my career I will deal in a different way or a better way than I did in Olympics."

Alcaraz, who last week lost to Gael Monfils in the Cincinnati Open Round of 32, said he is not worried about having played few hard-court matches ahead of the year's final Grand Slam.

"Heading into Roland Garros, I hadn't played too many matches on clay, and it was a pretty good result. In Wimbledon, same thing," added the Spaniard who has won the last two majors.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Carlos Alcaraz said he will be "at 100%" for the U.S. Open despite stopping his training in New York on Saturday as a precaution after twisting his ankle. Four-time Grand Slam champion Alcaraz has dealt with a number of injuries in recent times, including an ankle injury that forced him to withdraw in the first round of the Rio Open earlier this year.

Carlos Alcaraz said he will be "at 100%" for the U.S. Open despite stopping his training in New York on Saturday as a precaution after twisting his ankle. Four-time Grand Slam champion Alcaraz has dealt with a number of injuries in recent times, including an ankle injury that forced him to withdraw in the first round of the Rio Open earlier this year. Alcaraz's injury worries returned on Saturday, leading him to suspend his training session with Argentina's Francisco Cerundolo. However, the Spaniard said he never feared for his participation in tournament. "I just stopped my practice for precaution. I didn't feel comfortable enough to keep practising just in case if everything is going to be worse," Alcaraz told a news conference. "A few hours later, I feel good, tomorrow I will try to be practising again without thinking about it. "I wasn't worried at all for my U.S. Open participation. Obviously, I was angry because I don't want to stop the practice, to respect Cerundolo, as well. "Tomorrow or in two days I'm going to be my at 100%, for sure. It's about time." The 21-year-old begins his tournament at Flushing Meadows on Tuesday against Australian Li Tu as he chases a second U.S. Open title after winning in 2022. Alcaraz said he hoped to approach important matches with a better mentality following his disappointment at losing to Novak Djokovic in the final of the Olympics earlier this month. "It was a difficult moment for me, losing the gold medal in a really close match that I had opportunities," he said. "But in front of me I had a really good player and he deserved it. So, days after the Olympics I realize that I won the silver medal, a great achievement that I have to be proud of. "I try to keep going and learn about this. The next important matches of my career I will deal in a different way or a better way than I did in Olympics." Alcaraz, who last week lost to Gael Monfils in the Cincinnati Open Round of 32, said he is not worried about having played few hard-court matches ahead of the year's final Grand Slam. "Heading into Roland Garros, I hadn't played too many matches on clay, and it was a pretty good result. In Wimbledon, same thing," added the Spaniard who has won the last two majors. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US Open 2024: Carlos Alcaraz confident of being 100% for 1st round despite injury scare in training

Former US Open champions Carlos Alcaraz and world No.1 Jannik Sinner will be on the same side of the draw as revealed on Thursday (Aug 22). The US Open 2024 will start on Monday in New York as the draws took place on Thursday with top names like Novak Djokovic, Sinner and Alcaraz learning their fate. Djokovic will start against a qualifier and then play either fellow Serb Laslo Djere or Germany's Jan-Lennard Struff.

<h2>Draws for the US Open out</h2>

The final Grand Slam of the year will be an interesting affair considering Sinner was given a clean chit in the doping test while defending champion Novak Djokovic enters the draw to win his 25th Grand Slam singles title. Djokovic will face either Sinner or Alcaraz in the final with both his nearest rivals placed in the other half of the draw.

Sinner heads into the US Open after he was cleared of any wrongdoing after&nbsp;testing positive twice&nbsp;for a banned substance earlier in the season.

Sinner had explained that the substance had originated from a spray, containing clostebol, that had been used by a member of his staff to treat a cut finger.

The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) accepted the explanation and said the "presence of the substance was not intentional".

"I will now put this challenging and deeply unfortunate period behind me," said Sinner in a statement published on X.

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In the women's draw, world number two Aryna Sabalenka and defending champion Coco Gauff have been drawn in the same half and could meet in the semi-finals.

World No.1 and 2022 champion Iga Swiatek's highest-ranked potential semi-final opponent is fourth-ranked Elena Rybakina.

The highlight match of the opening round sees four-time Grand Slam title winner Naomi Osaka, the champion at Flushing Meadows in 2018 and 2020, face number ten seed and 2017 French Open winner Jelena Ostapenko.

Former US Open champions Carlos Alcaraz and world No.1 Jannik Sinner will be on the same side of the draw as revealed on Thursday (Aug 22). The US Open 2024 will start on Monday in New York as the draws took place on Thursday with top names like Novak Djokovic, Sinner and Alcaraz learning their fate.

Former US Open champions Carlos Alcaraz and world No.1 Jannik Sinner will be on the same side of the draw as revealed on Thursday (Aug 22). The US Open 2024 will start on Monday in New York as the draws took place on Thursday with top names like Novak Djokovic, Sinner and Alcaraz learning their fate. Djokovic will start against a qualifier and then play either fellow Serb Laslo Djere or Germany's Jan-Lennard Struff. Draws for the US Open out The final Grand Slam of the year will be an interesting affair considering Sinner was given a clean chit in the doping test while defending champion Novak Djokovic enters the draw to win his 25th Grand Slam singles title. Djokovic will face either Sinner or Alcaraz in the final with both his nearest rivals placed in the other half of the draw. Sinner heads into the US Open after he was cleared of any wrongdoing after testing positive twice for a banned substance earlier in the season. Sinner had explained that the substance had originated from a spray, containing clostebol, that had been used by a member of his staff to treat a cut finger. The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) accepted the explanation and said the "presence of the substance was not intentional". "I will now put this challenging and deeply unfortunate period behind me," said Sinner in a statement published on X. ALSO READ | Bundesliga: Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso backs Bayern Munich for title In the women's draw, world number two Aryna Sabalenka and defending champion Coco Gauff have been drawn in the same half and could meet in the semi-finals. World No.1 and 2022 champion Iga Swiatek's highest-ranked potential semi-final opponent is fourth-ranked Elena Rybakina. The highlight match of the opening round sees four-time Grand Slam title winner Naomi Osaka, the champion at Flushing Meadows in 2018 and 2020, face number ten seed and 2017 French Open winner Jelena Ostapenko.

US Open 2024: Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz on the same side of the draw

Carlos Alcaraz let loose his frustrations with a violent racquet smash in a 4-6, 7-6 (7/5), 6-4 defeat on Friday at the ATP and WTA Cincinnati Open that he called the "worst match" of his career.

The reigning Roland Garros and Wimbledon champion could not match the wily skills of 37-year-old French opponent Gael Monfils, two decades in the game and a threat to any young gun.

"It was the worst match that I ever played in my career," Alcaraz said. "I couldn't play.

"I don't know what happened. Honestly, I couldn't, I couldn't control myself. I couldn't be better. It was impossible to win, and that's all."

WATCH -

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The video of Carlos Alcaraz’ racquet smash. 😳 
 
Don’t think I’ve ever seen Carlos this frustrated on the court. 
 
<a href="https://t.co/c02vURTjPA">pic.twitter.com/c02vURTjPA</a>
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheTennisLetter/status/1824522181482803255?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The Spaniard added: "I came here thinking I'm going to feel good. I'm going to put in a good tennis, because I know how to play on this court."

Alcaraz said he had never before broken a racquet in anger but this match was the exception.&nbsp;

The ATP number three and 2023 Cincinnati runner-up heads to the US Open starting a week from Monday without a hardcourt win and only one second-round summer cement match in his legs.

"It's really difficult to find some goodstuffs from this match -- I want to forget it and try to move on to New York," he said. "I'll try to practice well, to get used to those courts. And I will forget this match."

Monfils then started a third-round catch-up match only hours after his victory, but ran out of puff as Holger Rune scraped out a 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 comeback victory.

While frustrated second seed Alcaraz was fuming at his form and occasionally screaming at his team, world number one Jannik Sinner celebrated a quiet 23rd birthday, with fate handing him a present in the form of a walkover.

The Italian advanced effortlessly into the quarters when Australian opponent Jordan Thompson withdrew before their match with a rib injury.

Sinner next gets a rematch of last week's quarter-final in Canada, which he lost to Andrey Rublev. The Russian finished a rain-delayed match over Brandon Nakashima 7-6 (7/5), 6-1.

Third seed Alexander Zverev advanced into the last eight over Spain's Pablo Carreno Busta 7-5, 7-6 (8/6).

Number five Hubert Hurkacz continued his quick return from July knee surgery with a 6-3,3-6, 6-1 defeat of Italy's Flavio Cobolli.

The poor run of form for seventh seed Casper Ruud continued as the Norwegian went down 6-3, 6-1 to Felix Auger-Aliassime in 68 minutes, with the Canadian sending down 14 aces.

<h2>No.1 Swiatek cruises</h2>

Women's top seed Iga Swiatek defeated Marta Kostyuk for the second time this season, powering into the quarter-finals 6-2, 6-2.

The Pole backed up her win over the Ukrainian at Indian Wells last March and now stands 3-0 in the rivalry without the loss of a set.

Due to the morning of rain, Swiatek stepped onto the court without her usual pre-match routine, but showed no ill effects.

Top-ranked Swiatek was able to finish off victory efficiently after struggling through three sets in the previous round to defeat Varvara Gracheva.

Swiatek secured the opening set in 31 minutes and was untroubled as she rolled through the second.

"I'm happy that I kept my intensity, in the first match, it got a little bit down," Swiatek said. "But I was ready in every game. "I'm happy I was solid. I was disciplined with all the things that I wanted to take care of."

Three-time semi-finalist and third seed Aryna Sabalenka beat Monfils's wife, Elina Svitolina, 7-5, 6-2 for her fourth quarter-final here.

Sixth seed Jessica Pegula won a delayed second-round match over 2023 runner-up Karolina Muchova 5-7, 6-4, 6-2.

Pegula's second win of the day was a 6-2, 6-3 triumph over US compatriot Taylor Townsend to book a quarter-final against former US Open finalist Leylah Fernandez.

Mother-of-two Caroline Wozniacki continued her WTA comeback effort but lost to Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova 7-5, 6-4.

Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen beat Poland's Magdalena Frech 6-1, 7-5. Teenaged Mirra Andreeva put out Italy's Wimbledon finalist Jasmine Paolini 3-6, 6-3, 6-2.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Carlos Alcaraz let loose his frustrations with a violent racquet smash in a 4-6, 7-6 (7/5), 6-4 defeat on Friday at the ATP and WTA Cincinnati Open that he called the "worst match" of his career.

Carlos Alcaraz let loose his frustrations with a violent racquet smash in a 4-6, 7-6 (7/5), 6-4 defeat on Friday at the ATP and WTA Cincinnati Open that he called the "worst match" of his career. The reigning Roland Garros and Wimbledon champion could not match the wily skills of 37-year-old French opponent Gael Monfils, two decades in the game and a threat to any young gun. "It was the worst match that I ever played in my career," Alcaraz said. "I couldn't play. "I don't know what happened. Honestly, I couldn't, I couldn't control myself. I couldn't be better. It was impossible to win, and that's all." WATCH - The video of Carlos Alcaraz’ racquet smash. 😳 Don’t think I’ve ever seen Carlos this frustrated on the court. pic.twitter.com/c02vURTjPA — The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) August 16, 2024 × The Spaniard added: "I came here thinking I'm going to feel good. I'm going to put in a good tennis, because I know how to play on this court." Alcaraz said he had never before broken a racquet in anger but this match was the exception. The ATP number three and 2023 Cincinnati runner-up heads to the US Open starting a week from Monday without a hardcourt win and only one second-round summer cement match in his legs. "It's really difficult to find some goodstuffs from this match -- I want to forget it and try to move on to New York," he said. "I'll try to practice well, to get used to those courts. And I will forget this match." Monfils then started a third-round catch-up match only hours after his victory, but ran out of puff as Holger Rune scraped out a 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 comeback victory. While frustrated second seed Alcaraz was fuming at his form and occasionally screaming at his team, world number one Jannik Sinner celebrated a quiet 23rd birthday, with fate handing him a present in the form of a walkover. The Italian advanced effortlessly into the quarters when Australian opponent Jordan Thompson withdrew before their match with a rib injury. Sinner next gets a rematch of last week's quarter-final in Canada, which he lost to Andrey Rublev. The Russian finished a rain-delayed match over Brandon Nakashima 7-6 (7/5), 6-1. Third seed Alexander Zverev advanced into the last eight over Spain's Pablo Carreno Busta 7-5, 7-6 (8/6). Number five Hubert Hurkacz continued his quick return from July knee surgery with a 6-3,3-6, 6-1 defeat of Italy's Flavio Cobolli. The poor run of form for seventh seed Casper Ruud continued as the Norwegian went down 6-3, 6-1 to Felix Auger-Aliassime in 68 minutes, with the Canadian sending down 14 aces. No.1 Swiatek cruises Women's top seed Iga Swiatek defeated Marta Kostyuk for the second time this season, powering into the quarter-finals 6-2, 6-2. The Pole backed up her win over the Ukrainian at Indian Wells last March and now stands 3-0 in the rivalry without the loss of a set. Due to the morning of rain, Swiatek stepped onto the court without her usual pre-match routine, but showed no ill effects. Top-ranked Swiatek was able to finish off victory efficiently after struggling through three sets in the previous round to defeat Varvara Gracheva. Swiatek secured the opening set in 31 minutes and was untroubled as she rolled through the second. "I'm happy that I kept my intensity, in the first match, it got a little bit down," Swiatek said. "But I was ready in every game. "I'm happy I was solid. I was disciplined with all the things that I wanted to take care of." Three-time semi-finalist and third seed Aryna Sabalenka beat Monfils's wife, Elina Svitolina, 7-5, 6-2 for her fourth quarter-final here. Sixth seed Jessica Pegula won a delayed second-round match over 2023 runner-up Karolina Muchova 5-7, 6-4, 6-2. Pegula's second win of the day was a 6-2, 6-3 triumph over US compatriot Taylor Townsend to book a quarter-final against former US Open finalist Leylah Fernandez. Mother-of-two Caroline Wozniacki continued her WTA comeback effort but lost to Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova 7-5, 6-4. Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen beat Poland's Magdalena Frech 6-1, 7-5. Teenaged Mirra Andreeva put out Italy's Wimbledon finalist Jasmine Paolini 3-6, 6-3, 6-2. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Cincinnati Open 2024: Carlos Alcaraz crashes out after ‘worst match of his career’

After capturing back-to-back Grand Slam titles and a silver medal at the Paris Olympics, world number three Carlos Alcaraz said one of his key goals for the rest of the season is to finish as the top-ranked player in the world. The 21-year-old French Open and Wimbledon champion, who lost a thrilling Olympic final to Novak Djokovic, returns to action at this week's Cincinnati Open, where he can gain ground on the Serb and Italian Jannik Sinner.

Alcaraz is 450 points behind world number one Sinner in the ATP live race to the season finale in Turin, the separate year-to-date standings that serve as a measuring stick for the year-end number one battle. "Obviously being number one is a goal every time that I'm (behind) and the race is an important ranking for me. At the end of the year if you end the race number one, in the rankings it's quite similar, so you're going to end number one," Alcaraz said. "So I'm really focused on that. I'm focused on going to every tournament, thinking about playing great tennis, doing a good result just to get better in the race. This year, ending the year as number one is one of my main goals right now."

Last year's Cincinnati runner-up, Alcaraz will begin his campaign against Gael Monfils or Alexei Popyrin as he returns to hardcourt tennis for the first time since reaching the Miami quarter-finals in March.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/news-paris-olympics-2024-china-attain-best-tally-since-beijing-games-but-usa-ahead-overall-749271">Paris Olympics 2024: China attain best tally since Beijing Games but USA ahead overall</a>

The Cincinnati Open is an important tune-up event for the Aug. 26-Sept. 8 U.S. Open. "I'm excited to play here again. Obviously great memories from last year, reaching the final, losing a really tight and epic match (to Djokovic)," Alcaraz said.

Djokovic withdrew from Cincinnati after his Olympic triumph.

After capturing back-to-back Grand Slam titles and a silver medal at the Paris Olympics, world number three Carlos Alcaraz said one of his key goals for the rest of the season is to finish as the top-ranked player in the world.

After capturing back-to-back Grand Slam titles and a silver medal at the Paris Olympics, world number three Carlos Alcaraz said one of his key goals for the rest of the season is to finish as the top-ranked player in the world. The 21-year-old French Open and Wimbledon champion, who lost a thrilling Olympic final to Novak Djokovic, returns to action at this week's Cincinnati Open, where he can gain ground on the Serb and Italian Jannik Sinner. Alcaraz is 450 points behind world number one Sinner in the ATP live race to the season finale in Turin, the separate year-to-date standings that serve as a measuring stick for the year-end number one battle. "Obviously being number one is a goal every time that I'm (behind) and the race is an important ranking for me. At the end of the year if you end the race number one, in the rankings it's quite similar, so you're going to end number one," Alcaraz said. "So I'm really focused on that. I'm focused on going to every tournament, thinking about playing great tennis, doing a good result just to get better in the race. This year, ending the year as number one is one of my main goals right now." Last year's Cincinnati runner-up, Alcaraz will begin his campaign against Gael Monfils or Alexei Popyrin as he returns to hardcourt tennis for the first time since reaching the Miami quarter-finals in March. Also read: Paris Olympics 2024: China attain best tally since Beijing Games but USA ahead overall The Cincinnati Open is an important tune-up event for the Aug. 26-Sept. 8 U.S. Open. "I'm excited to play here again. Obviously great memories from last year, reaching the final, losing a really tight and epic match (to Djokovic)," Alcaraz said. Djokovic withdrew from Cincinnati after his Olympic triumph.

World number 3 Carlos Alcaraz sets sights on year-end number one spot

Novak Djokovic described beating Carlos Alcaraz to claim the Olympic singles gold medal at the fifth attempt as the biggest achievement of his career on Sunday.

The 37-year-old Serb ended an eight-month trophy drought with a vintage display to win 7-6(3) 7-6(2) and complete his career Golden Slam in memorable fashion, not dropping a set in six matches at Roland Garros.

He is the oldest man to win the Olympic singles title since tennis returned to the Games in 1988 and remarkably he did it 21 days after being pummelled by Alcaraz in the Wimbledon final and two months after undergoing knee surgery.

"I won the bronze in my first Olympic Games (2008) and ever since then failed to win the medal and played three out of four Olympic Games in semi-finals and couldn't overcome that obstacle," Djokovic, proudly wearing his medal, told reporters.

"And then now at age 37, with a 21-year-old that is probably the best player in the world right now, winning Roland Garros and Wimbledon back-to-back and playing incredible tennis.

"When I take everything into consideration, this probably is the biggest sporting success I've ever had in my career."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/news-paris-olympic-2024-taiwanese-fans-celebrate-badminton-doubles-gold-over-china-but-without-political-symbols-747189">Paris Olympic 2024: Taiwanese fans celebrate badminton doubles gold over China but without political symbols</a>

The 24-time Grand Slam champion produced a level of tennis that has been missing this year to fight off Alcaraz.

After belting away a forehand winner to end a ferocious, near three-hour battle, the emotion poured out of Djokovic as he sobbed on court before climbing into the stands to embrace his family, including wife Jelena and son Stefan, and his team.

"Until today I thought that carrying the Serbian flag at the 2012 opening ceremony in London is the best feeling that an athlete could have," he said.

"This kind of supersedes everything that I imagined, that I hoped that I could experience and that I could feel."

Djokovic did not rule out playing at the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028, but said the realisation that Paris was probably his last swing at gold had motivated him.

"I was ready for this tournament and I didn't drop a set the entire tournament," he said. "I knew in the opening two rounds the way I was playing that this is my chance. If it's ever going to be, it's going to be now.

"When I qualified for the finals, I felt a big relief because that's the hurdle I wasn't able to surpass. I did celebrate like I won the tournament. But of course I wanted gold and I knew that I would have to climb the highest mountain there is at the moment, playing Alcaraz."

Djokovic saved eight break points during a match of stunning quality and intensity -- the Serb describing the duel as like few others he had ever experienced.

"I don't think I've ever played, maybe a few times in my life, such a high level for three hours for only two sets," he said. "Credit to him, congratulations to him for a great tournament, great fighting spirit."

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Novak Djokovic described beating Carlos Alcaraz to claim the Olympic singles gold medal at the fifth attempt as the biggest achievement of his career on Sunday. The 37-year-old Serb ended an eight-month trophy drought with a vintage display to win 7-6(3) 7-6(2) and complete his career Golden Slam in memorable fashion, not dropping a set in six matches at Roland Garros.

Novak Djokovic described beating Carlos Alcaraz to claim the Olympic singles gold medal at the fifth attempt as the biggest achievement of his career on Sunday. The 37-year-old Serb ended an eight-month trophy drought with a vintage display to win 7-6(3) 7-6(2) and complete his career Golden Slam in memorable fashion, not dropping a set in six matches at Roland Garros. He is the oldest man to win the Olympic singles title since tennis returned to the Games in 1988 and remarkably he did it 21 days after being pummelled by Alcaraz in the Wimbledon final and two months after undergoing knee surgery. "I won the bronze in my first Olympic Games (2008) and ever since then failed to win the medal and played three out of four Olympic Games in semi-finals and couldn't overcome that obstacle," Djokovic, proudly wearing his medal, told reporters. "And then now at age 37, with a 21-year-old that is probably the best player in the world right now, winning Roland Garros and Wimbledon back-to-back and playing incredible tennis. "When I take everything into consideration, this probably is the biggest sporting success I've ever had in my career." ALSO READ: Paris Olympic 2024: Taiwanese fans celebrate badminton doubles gold over China but without political symbols The 24-time Grand Slam champion produced a level of tennis that has been missing this year to fight off Alcaraz. After belting away a forehand winner to end a ferocious, near three-hour battle, the emotion poured out of Djokovic as he sobbed on court before climbing into the stands to embrace his family, including wife Jelena and son Stefan, and his team. "Until today I thought that carrying the Serbian flag at the 2012 opening ceremony in London is the best feeling that an athlete could have," he said. "This kind of supersedes everything that I imagined, that I hoped that I could experience and that I could feel." Djokovic did not rule out playing at the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028, but said the realisation that Paris was probably his last swing at gold had motivated him. "I was ready for this tournament and I didn't drop a set the entire tournament," he said. "I knew in the opening two rounds the way I was playing that this is my chance. If it's ever going to be, it's going to be now. "When I qualified for the finals, I felt a big relief because that's the hurdle I wasn't able to surpass. I did celebrate like I won the tournament. But of course I wanted gold and I knew that I would have to climb the highest mountain there is at the moment, playing Alcaraz." Djokovic saved eight break points during a match of stunning quality and intensity -- the Serb describing the duel as like few others he had ever experienced. "I don't think I've ever played, maybe a few times in my life, such a high level for three hours for only two sets," he said. "Credit to him, congratulations to him for a great tournament, great fighting spirit." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Paris Games 2024: Novak Djokovic calls Olympic gold medal win as biggest sporting success of his career

Novak Djokovic beat Carlos Alcaraz in men's singles tennis final on Sunday (Aug 4) to win the gold at ongoing Paris Olympics 2024. Djokovic won the match in 7(7)-6(3), 7(7)-6(2) straight sets.

With the win, Djokovic, 37, became the oldest tennis player to win the men's singles gold since 1988. He's just the fifth player to complete a career Golden Slam (all four grand slams and an Olympic gold).

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-olympics-2024-no-man-in-india-viktor-axelsen-after-beating-lakshya-sen-in-badminton-singles-semis-747093">Paris Olympics 2024: 'No man in India...,' Viktor Axelsen after beating Lakshya Sen in badminton singles semis</a>

Before Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Andre Agassi, Serena Williams and Steffi Graf had completed a career golden slam.

The Serbian, playing with knee support, said after the match:&nbsp;"We almost played three hours, the final shot was the only moment when I was sure I could win the match."

"I put my body, my family on the line to win gold and finally I did it," he added.

Alcaraz, who had beaten Djokovic in Wimbledon 2024 final in straight set last month and had won this year's French Open at the same court as today, was quite emotional after the loss.

"Three hours, a big battle with tough moments," said the 21-year-old &nbsp;"It's very painful to lose."&nbsp;

Djokovic carved out a break point in the second game of the opener and three more in the fourth, all saved by the Spaniard.

Then it was the Serb's turn to demonstrate his famed powers of resilience, fighting off three break points in the fifth game and another five in a marathon ninth game.

In a rollercoaster duel, Alcaraz saved a set point in the 12th game but his veteran opponent dominated the tiebreak to claim the opener after a breathless 93 minutes on Court Philippe Chatrier.

There was no let-up in the second set, scintillating shot-making alongside rousing defence with Alcaraz fighting off the final's 14th break point in the third game.&nbsp;

Again the set was decided by a tie-break and it was Djokovic with history on the line again sweeping through to take victory after two hours and 50 minutes.

(With input from agencies)

Novak Djokovic beat Carlos Alcaraz in men's singles tennis final on Sunday (Aug 4) to win the gold at ongoing Paris Olympics 2024. Djokovic won the match in 7(7)-6(3), 7(7)-6(2) straight sets.

Novak Djokovic beat Carlos Alcaraz in men's singles tennis final on Sunday (Aug 4) to win the gold at ongoing Paris Olympics 2024. Djokovic won the match in 7(7)-6(3), 7(7)-6(2) straight sets. With the win, Djokovic, 37, became the oldest tennis player to win the men's singles gold since 1988. He's just the fifth player to complete a career Golden Slam (all four grand slams and an Olympic gold). Also Read: Paris Olympics 2024: 'No man in India...,' Viktor Axelsen after beating Lakshya Sen in badminton singles semis Before Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Andre Agassi, Serena Williams and Steffi Graf had completed a career golden slam. The Serbian, playing with knee support, said after the match: "We almost played three hours, the final shot was the only moment when I was sure I could win the match." "I put my body, my family on the line to win gold and finally I did it," he added. Alcaraz, who had beaten Djokovic in Wimbledon 2024 final in straight set last month and had won this year's French Open at the same court as today, was quite emotional after the loss. "Three hours, a big battle with tough moments," said the 21-year-old "It's very painful to lose." Djokovic carved out a break point in the second game of the opener and three more in the fourth, all saved by the Spaniard. Then it was the Serb's turn to demonstrate his famed powers of resilience, fighting off three break points in the fifth game and another five in a marathon ninth game. In a rollercoaster duel, Alcaraz saved a set point in the 12th game but his veteran opponent dominated the tiebreak to claim the opener after a breathless 93 minutes on Court Philippe Chatrier. There was no let-up in the second set, scintillating shot-making alongside rousing defence with Alcaraz fighting off the final's 14th break point in the third game. Again the set was decided by a tie-break and it was Djokovic with history on the line again sweeping through to take victory after two hours and 50 minutes. (With input from agencies)

Paris Olympics 2024: Novak Djokovic beats Carlos Alcaraz to win tennis men's singles gold

Novak Djokovic snapped his Olympic semi-final jinx with a 6-4 6-2 defeat of Italy's Lorenzo Musetti on Friday to set up a blockbuster battle for gold against Spain's Carlos Alcaraz.

The 37-year-old Serb had lost his three previous Olympic singles semi-finals but was in no mood to suffer more heartache as he dominated a high-quality duel at Roland Garros.

Earlier on Court Philippe Chatrier, the 21-year-old Alcaraz thrashed Canada's Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-1 6-1.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/news-paris-olympics-2024-ugly-scenes-unfold-in-men%E2%80%99s-football-as-france-beat-argentina-to-reach-semis-746744">Paris Olympics 2024: Ugly scenes unfold in men’s football as France beat Argentina to reach semis</a>

Djokovic needs only the Olympic gold to complete the full set of achievements in a career that has earned him 24 Grand Slam titles and the relief of reaching the final was clear as he laid on his back, arms outstretched, after match point.

"Three of the (previous) four Olympic Games I played I made semi-finals but failed to overcome that hurdle," Djokovic, whose only medal was a singles bronze in 2008, told reporters. "Just to secure a higher medal for my country, whatever happens on Sunday, is a huge pride and honour. I'm going for gold, but this is a big deal."

Djokovic lost to Rafa Nadal in the semi-final in Beijing, Andy Murray in the 2012 last four in London and in Tokyo it was Alexander Zverev who blocked his path.

Musetti, bidding to emulate the Italian duo of Jasmine Paolini and Sara Errani who reached the women's doubles final, started superbly but Djokovic found another gear to break serve in the 10th game from 40-0 down and take the first set.

Djokovic, who had concerns over his strapped-up knee ahead of the match, lost his cool in the second after twice dropping his serve, and was raging after a code violation. But he responded like the warrior he is, reeling off five games to became the oldest Olympic men's singles finalist since tennis returned to the Games in 1988.

<h2>Formidable obstacle</h2>

Second seed Alcaraz is the youngest and judging by his demolition of Auger-Aliassime he will be a formidable obstacle. The 21-year-old, who outplayed Djokovic to win his second Wimbledon title last month, was in devastating form and needed little more than an hour to earn his shot at gold.

"It means a lot to me being in a final at the Olympic Games and giving myself the chance to fight for a gold medal for my country. It is a special moment for my career and my life," Alcaraz, who like Djokovic has not dropped a set, said. "I'm really happy to bring a medal to my country, and hopefully, it's going to be the gold one."

Auger-Aliassime, bidding to become the first Canadian to reach an Olympic singles final, was outclassed.

"In every aspect, I was dominated, there's not much more to say," the 23-year-old said.

Realistically, Sunday's final is Djokovic's last chance to scratch his Olympic itch but he said he has nothing to lose.

"Alcaraz has proved the best player in the world at the moment," he said. "He's definitely favourite, but it's the Olympics, it's anybody's game."

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Novak Djokovic snapped his Olympic semi-final jinx with a 6-4 6-2 defeat of Italy's Lorenzo Musetti on Friday to set up a blockbuster battle for gold against Spain's Carlos Alcaraz.

Novak Djokovic snapped his Olympic semi-final jinx with a 6-4 6-2 defeat of Italy's Lorenzo Musetti on Friday to set up a blockbuster battle for gold against Spain's Carlos Alcaraz. The 37-year-old Serb had lost his three previous Olympic singles semi-finals but was in no mood to suffer more heartache as he dominated a high-quality duel at Roland Garros. Earlier on Court Philippe Chatrier, the 21-year-old Alcaraz thrashed Canada's Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-1 6-1. ALSO READ: Paris Olympics 2024: Ugly scenes unfold in men’s football as France beat Argentina to reach semis Djokovic needs only the Olympic gold to complete the full set of achievements in a career that has earned him 24 Grand Slam titles and the relief of reaching the final was clear as he laid on his back, arms outstretched, after match point. "Three of the (previous) four Olympic Games I played I made semi-finals but failed to overcome that hurdle," Djokovic, whose only medal was a singles bronze in 2008, told reporters. "Just to secure a higher medal for my country, whatever happens on Sunday, is a huge pride and honour. I'm going for gold, but this is a big deal." Djokovic lost to Rafa Nadal in the semi-final in Beijing, Andy Murray in the 2012 last four in London and in Tokyo it was Alexander Zverev who blocked his path. Musetti, bidding to emulate the Italian duo of Jasmine Paolini and Sara Errani who reached the women's doubles final, started superbly but Djokovic found another gear to break serve in the 10th game from 40-0 down and take the first set. Djokovic, who had concerns over his strapped-up knee ahead of the match, lost his cool in the second after twice dropping his serve, and was raging after a code violation. But he responded like the warrior he is, reeling off five games to became the oldest Olympic men's singles finalist since tennis returned to the Games in 1988. Formidable obstacle Second seed Alcaraz is the youngest and judging by his demolition of Auger-Aliassime he will be a formidable obstacle. The 21-year-old, who outplayed Djokovic to win his second Wimbledon title last month, was in devastating form and needed little more than an hour to earn his shot at gold. "It means a lot to me being in a final at the Olympic Games and giving myself the chance to fight for a gold medal for my country. It is a special moment for my career and my life," Alcaraz, who like Djokovic has not dropped a set, said. "I'm really happy to bring a medal to my country, and hopefully, it's going to be the gold one." Auger-Aliassime, bidding to become the first Canadian to reach an Olympic singles final, was outclassed. "In every aspect, I was dominated, there's not much more to say," the 23-year-old said. Realistically, Sunday's final is Djokovic's last chance to scratch his Olympic itch but he said he has nothing to lose. "Alcaraz has proved the best player in the world at the moment," he said. "He's definitely favourite, but it's the Olympics, it's anybody's game." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Paris Games 2024: Novak Djokovic to face Carlos Alcaraz in dream gold medal showdown

Carlos Alcaraz became the youngest man to reach the Olympic Games men's tennis final on Friday when he thrashed Felix Auger-Aliassime.&nbsp;

Alcaraz, 21, swept to a 6-1, 6-1 victory over the Canadian in just 75 minutes and will meet Novak Djokovic in Sunday's final if the top-seeded Serb overcomes a knee injury and Italy's Lorenzo Musetti in the second semi-final.&nbsp;

"It has been an objective since the start of the year to try and win the gold medal and now we have one match left to try and get it done," said Alcaraz.&nbsp;

"I want to have fun in the final and do the business."&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/news-pv-sindhu-clears-air-on-future-after-paris-olympics-exit-calls-r16-loss-%E2%80%98hardest-of-her-career%E2%80%99-746613">PV Sindhu clears air on future after Paris Olympics exit, calls R16 loss ‘hardest of her career’</a>

Spanish star Alcaraz, playing on the same Roland Garros court where he won the French Open in June, broke the 19th-ranked Auger-Aliassime three times in the first set, racing away with six consecutive games.&nbsp;

Alcaraz broke again in the fourth and sixth games of the second set on his way to claiming a fourth successive win over the Canadian having lost the first three of the pair's series.&nbsp;

"It was a very complete performance and I played at a very high level from start to finish," said Alcaraz.&nbsp;

"I had very good feelings and sensations, I'm so happy."&nbsp;

He added: "The final is very important for me and the Spanish people but I try not to think about how important it is and will focus on the match."&nbsp;

Wimbledon champion Alcaraz is the third Spanish man to reach the Olympic men's final after Jordi Arrese at Barcelona in 1992, Sergi Bruguera in Atlanta four years later and Rafael Nadal who won gold at Beijing in 2008.

He now has the chance to become the youngest men's champion since tennis returned to the Olympics at&nbsp;Seoul in 1988.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Carlos Alcaraz became the youngest man to reach the Olympic Games men's tennis final on Friday when he thrashed Felix Auger-Aliassime. Alcaraz, 21, swept to a 6-1, 6-1 victory over the Canadian in just 75 minutes and will meet Novak Djokovic in Sunday's final if the top-seeded Serb overcomes a knee injury and Italy's Lorenzo Musetti in the second semi-final.

Carlos Alcaraz became the youngest man to reach the Olympic Games men's tennis final on Friday when he thrashed Felix Auger-Aliassime. Alcaraz, 21, swept to a 6-1, 6-1 victory over the Canadian in just 75 minutes and will meet Novak Djokovic in Sunday's final if the top-seeded Serb overcomes a knee injury and Italy's Lorenzo Musetti in the second semi-final. "It has been an objective since the start of the year to try and win the gold medal and now we have one match left to try and get it done," said Alcaraz. "I want to have fun in the final and do the business." ALSO READ: PV Sindhu clears air on future after Paris Olympics exit, calls R16 loss ‘hardest of her career’ Spanish star Alcaraz, playing on the same Roland Garros court where he won the French Open in June, broke the 19th-ranked Auger-Aliassime three times in the first set, racing away with six consecutive games. Alcaraz broke again in the fourth and sixth games of the second set on his way to claiming a fourth successive win over the Canadian having lost the first three of the pair's series. "It was a very complete performance and I played at a very high level from start to finish," said Alcaraz. "I had very good feelings and sensations, I'm so happy." He added: "The final is very important for me and the Spanish people but I try not to think about how important it is and will focus on the match." Wimbledon champion Alcaraz is the third Spanish man to reach the Olympic men's final after Jordi Arrese at Barcelona in 1992, Sergi Bruguera in Atlanta four years later and Rafael Nadal who won gold at Beijing in 2008. He now has the chance to become the youngest men's champion since tennis returned to the Olympics at Seoul in 1988. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Paris Olympics 2024: Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz creates history in thumping semis win over Felix Auger-Aliassime

Zheng Qinwen ended Iga Swiatek's 25-match unbeaten streak at Roland Garros on Thursday to become the first Chinese player to reach an Olympic Games singles final as Carlos Alcaraz marched closer to a showdown with Novak Djokovic.

Defending champion Alexander Zverev, however, crashed out, losing his quarter-final to a fired-up Lorenzo Musetti of Italy.

Seventh-ranked Zheng triumphed 6-2, 7-5 over world number one Swiatek and will face either Croatia's Donna Vekic or Anna Karolina Schmiedlova of Slovakia in the gold medal match.&nbsp;

"I feel more than just happy -- happy isn't enough to describe how I feel," said Zheng, who had played back-to-back three-hour matches to make the semi-final.

"If you ask me to play another three hours for my country, I would. It was an amazing match. To beat Iga is not easy."

Swiatek, a four-time French Open champion at Roland Garros, went into the match at a sweltering Court Philippe Chatrier having not lost in Paris since 2021.

The 23-year-old had also defeated Zheng in all of their six previous meetings.

However, she was hit off the court by the powerful 21-year-old Australian Open finalist who broke the Pole three times in the opening set.&nbsp;

Swiatek appeared restored by a 10-minute break and quickly stretched out to a 4-0 lead in the second set before Zheng battled back, retrieving both breaks for 4-4.&nbsp;

The Chinese star broke again for a 6-5 lead against the error-plagued Swiatek and claimed victory in the next game.

By making the final, Zheng is the first Chinese man or woman to reach an Olympic singles gold medal match, bettering the run of Li Na who finished fourth in the women's event at Beijing in 2008.

China's only Olympics tennis gold came thanks to Li Ting and Sun Tiantian in the women's doubles at Athens in 2004.

<h2>About the fight</h2>

Alcaraz, back at Roland Garros where he won a maiden French Open in June, became the youngest Olympic semi-finalist since Djokovic in 2008.

The second seed saw off 13th-ranked Tommy Paul of the United States 6-3, 7-6 (9/7) after recovering from a break down in the second set and saving a set point in the tie-break.

"It's all about the fight," said Alcaraz, who was playing the day after he and Rafael Nadal suffered a heartbreaking doubles loss in what was probably the veteran's final appearance at Roland Garros.

The 21-year-old will face either Casper Ruud or Felix Auger-Aliassime for a place in the final.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/news-social-media-reacts-to-swapnil-kusale%E2%80%99s-maiden-bronze-medal-win-as-shooting-shines-at-paris-olympics-2024-746231">Social media reacts to Swapnil Kusale’s maiden bronze medal win as shooters shine at Paris Olympics 2024</a>

<h2>Champion Zverev out</h2>

Wimbledon semi-finalist Musetti stunned Zverev 7-5, 7-5 on the back of 20 winners as the 16th-ranked Italian continued his storming Olympics run.

The 22-year-old was playing a tour final in Umag in Croatia on Saturday night and only arrived in Paris on Sunday morning, just hours before his first-round clash.

Musetti has made the semi-finals without dropping a set as he became the first Italian man to reach the singles semi-finals since tennis returned to the Olympics in Seoul in 1988.

The Italian will face either top seed Djokovic, who beat him in the Wimbledon semi-finals, or Stefanos Tsitsipas for a place in the gold medal match.

Djokovic, still seeking an elusive Olympic gold medal to add to his 24 Grand Slam titles, takes on Tsitsipas on the same court where in 2021 he battled back from two sets down to defeat the Greek in the French Open final.

The Serb has coasted through the first three rounds in Paris and will be buoyed by his 11-2 head-to-head record against Tsitsipas.

That run also included victory in the final of the 2023 Australian Open final while Tsitsipas's last win over the Djokovic came back in 2019.

Paul will return to the courts later Thursday when he teams up with Taylor Fritz in a men's doubles quarter-final which could mark the end of Andy Murray's career.

Murray and Dan Evans will face the US third seeds for a place in the semi-finals.

Murray, a former world number one and three-time Grand Slam singles champion, has already announced his intention to retire after the Olympics.

The 37-year-old and Evans have endured a roller-coaster Olympics so far, saving seven match points over two rounds.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Zheng Qinwen ended Iga Swiatek's 25-match unbeaten streak at Roland Garros on Thursday to become the first Chinese player to reach an Olympic Games singles final as Carlos Alcaraz marched closer to a showdown with Novak Djokovic.

Zheng Qinwen ended Iga Swiatek's 25-match unbeaten streak at Roland Garros on Thursday to become the first Chinese player to reach an Olympic Games singles final as Carlos Alcaraz marched closer to a showdown with Novak Djokovic. Defending champion Alexander Zverev, however, crashed out, losing his quarter-final to a fired-up Lorenzo Musetti of Italy. Seventh-ranked Zheng triumphed 6-2, 7-5 over world number one Swiatek and will face either Croatia's Donna Vekic or Anna Karolina Schmiedlova of Slovakia in the gold medal match. "I feel more than just happy -- happy isn't enough to describe how I feel," said Zheng, who had played back-to-back three-hour matches to make the semi-final. "If you ask me to play another three hours for my country, I would. It was an amazing match. To beat Iga is not easy." Swiatek, a four-time French Open champion at Roland Garros, went into the match at a sweltering Court Philippe Chatrier having not lost in Paris since 2021. The 23-year-old had also defeated Zheng in all of their six previous meetings. However, she was hit off the court by the powerful 21-year-old Australian Open finalist who broke the Pole three times in the opening set. Swiatek appeared restored by a 10-minute break and quickly stretched out to a 4-0 lead in the second set before Zheng battled back, retrieving both breaks for 4-4. The Chinese star broke again for a 6-5 lead against the error-plagued Swiatek and claimed victory in the next game. By making the final, Zheng is the first Chinese man or woman to reach an Olympic singles gold medal match, bettering the run of Li Na who finished fourth in the women's event at Beijing in 2008. China's only Olympics tennis gold came thanks to Li Ting and Sun Tiantian in the women's doubles at Athens in 2004. About the fight Alcaraz, back at Roland Garros where he won a maiden French Open in June, became the youngest Olympic semi-finalist since Djokovic in 2008. The second seed saw off 13th-ranked Tommy Paul of the United States 6-3, 7-6 (9/7) after recovering from a break down in the second set and saving a set point in the tie-break. "It's all about the fight," said Alcaraz, who was playing the day after he and Rafael Nadal suffered a heartbreaking doubles loss in what was probably the veteran's final appearance at Roland Garros. The 21-year-old will face either Casper Ruud or Felix Auger-Aliassime for a place in the final. ALSO READ | Social media reacts to Swapnil Kusale’s maiden bronze medal win as shooters shine at Paris Olympics 2024 Champion Zverev out Wimbledon semi-finalist Musetti stunned Zverev 7-5, 7-5 on the back of 20 winners as the 16th-ranked Italian continued his storming Olympics run. The 22-year-old was playing a tour final in Umag in Croatia on Saturday night and only arrived in Paris on Sunday morning, just hours before his first-round clash. Musetti has made the semi-finals without dropping a set as he became the first Italian man to reach the singles semi-finals since tennis returned to the Olympics in Seoul in 1988. The Italian will face either top seed Djokovic, who beat him in the Wimbledon semi-finals, or Stefanos Tsitsipas for a place in the gold medal match. Djokovic, still seeking an elusive Olympic gold medal to add to his 24 Grand Slam titles, takes on Tsitsipas on the same court where in 2021 he battled back from two sets down to defeat the Greek in the French Open final. The Serb has coasted through the first three rounds in Paris and will be buoyed by his 11-2 head-to-head record against Tsitsipas. That run also included victory in the final of the 2023 Australian Open final while Tsitsipas's last win over the Djokovic came back in 2019. Paul will return to the courts later Thursday when he teams up with Taylor Fritz in a men's doubles quarter-final which could mark the end of Andy Murray's career. Murray and Dan Evans will face the US third seeds for a place in the semi-finals. Murray, a former world number one and three-time Grand Slam singles champion, has already announced his intention to retire after the Olympics. The 37-year-old and Evans have endured a roller-coaster Olympics so far, saving seven match points over two rounds. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Paris Olympics 2024: Zheng stuns Swiatek as Alcaraz closes in on Djokovic clash

Spain's dream team met its match as Rafa&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;and Carlos Alcaraz's hopes of an Olympic doubles gold medal were ended by Americans Rajeev Ram and Austin Krajicek on Wednesday, the defeat almost certainly&nbsp;Nadal's Roland Garros farewell. Their progress had captivated the crowds on the site of&nbsp;Nadal's mind-boggling 14 French Open singles crowns but the journey ended in a 6-2 6-4 quarter-final defeat.

<h2>'If this was the last time, I enjoyed it'</h2>

"If this was the last time it was an unforgettable feeling and emotions. They gave me the love and support every single second and it's super, super special to feel that," the 38-year-old&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;told reporters.

"Nadalcaraz", as they have become known since joining forces, were given raucous support on a rammed Court Philippe Chatrier, the din sounding more like a soccer arena as the fans roared on the Spaniards.

When 2023 French Open doubles winner Krajicek served for the match and went break points down there was pandemonium inside the arena with the umpire struggling to maintain order.

The American fourth seeds somehow kept their cool though and when Krajicek blasted down an ace on match point it was met by almost silent disbelief as the umpire got off her chair to confirm the ball had kissed the white tape.

Nadal&nbsp;began the Games carrying the Olympic flame in the opening ceremony, but ends it without the third gold medal he craved on what could be his final bow on the Parisian clay. As&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;trudged off alongside the man who has replaced him as a force in tennis, it felt like the end as fans snapped photos on their phones.

"For me personally it was disappointing to not bring back a medal for Spain,"&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;said. "I tried my best in every single minute I was on court but it was not enough. "I don't know what's going to happen in the future, but if that's the last time I enjoyed it."

Twenty two-times Grand Slam champion&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;had been coy about when he will end his career but it seems a matter of time. Asked if he would play at the U.S. Open after the Olympics, he said: "I can't give you a clear answer, I need some time but for me it looks difficult."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-olympics-djokovic-alcaraz-one-step-closer-to-set-up-tennis-singles-gold-medal-showdown-746026">Paris Olympics: Djokovic, Alcaraz one step closer to set up tennis singles gold medal showdown</a>

<h2>SPECIAL ATMOSPHERE</h2>

Krajicek said it had been special to be part of the atmosphere, even if he played a huge role in ruining the script. "To be in that kind of environment. You've got to soak it all in," he said. "I mean, the energy was through the roof."

In truth&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;and Alcaraz could have few complaints as they came up against a well-drilled partnership with the 40-year-old Ram, a four-times Grand Slam men's doubles champion, superb throughout with razor-sharp net play. In their two previous matches in Paris,&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;and Alcaraz had ridden a wave of support, coming up with some inspired play to raise hopes that they could go all the way.

But this time the 21-year-old Alcaraz, who earlier on Wednesday reached the singles quarter-finals, lacked his usual spark and served consecutive double faults to virtually hand the Americans the opening set.

There was no coming back this time and Alcaraz dropped serve to love at 3-3 -- the Spaniards' frustration showing as they disputed a line call after a sizzling Ram winner. "I enjoyed every single second that we played together," Alcaraz said. "Disappointed as we wanted to keep going."

Ram and Krajicek face Czech duo Tomas Machac and Adam Pavlasek for a place in the gold medal match.

Spain's dream team met its match as Rafa Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz's hopes of an Olympic doubles gold medal were ended by Americans Rajeev Ram and Austin Krajicek on Wednesday, the defeat almost certainly Nadal's Roland Garros farewell.

Spain's dream team met its match as Rafa Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz's hopes of an Olympic doubles gold medal were ended by Americans Rajeev Ram and Austin Krajicek on Wednesday, the defeat almost certainly Nadal's Roland Garros farewell. Their progress had captivated the crowds on the site of Nadal's mind-boggling 14 French Open singles crowns but the journey ended in a 6-2 6-4 quarter-final defeat. 'If this was the last time, I enjoyed it' "If this was the last time it was an unforgettable feeling and emotions. They gave me the love and support every single second and it's super, super special to feel that," the 38-year-old Nadal told reporters. "Nadalcaraz", as they have become known since joining forces, were given raucous support on a rammed Court Philippe Chatrier, the din sounding more like a soccer arena as the fans roared on the Spaniards. When 2023 French Open doubles winner Krajicek served for the match and went break points down there was pandemonium inside the arena with the umpire struggling to maintain order. The American fourth seeds somehow kept their cool though and when Krajicek blasted down an ace on match point it was met by almost silent disbelief as the umpire got off her chair to confirm the ball had kissed the white tape. Nadal began the Games carrying the Olympic flame in the opening ceremony, but ends it without the third gold medal he craved on what could be his final bow on the Parisian clay. As Nadal trudged off alongside the man who has replaced him as a force in tennis, it felt like the end as fans snapped photos on their phones. "For me personally it was disappointing to not bring back a medal for Spain," Nadal said. "I tried my best in every single minute I was on court but it was not enough. "I don't know what's going to happen in the future, but if that's the last time I enjoyed it." Twenty two-times Grand Slam champion Nadal had been coy about when he will end his career but it seems a matter of time. Asked if he would play at the U.S. Open after the Olympics, he said: "I can't give you a clear answer, I need some time but for me it looks difficult." Also read: Paris Olympics: Djokovic, Alcaraz one step closer to set up tennis singles gold medal showdown SPECIAL ATMOSPHERE Krajicek said it had been special to be part of the atmosphere, even if he played a huge role in ruining the script. "To be in that kind of environment. You've got to soak it all in," he said. "I mean, the energy was through the roof." In truth Nadal and Alcaraz could have few complaints as they came up against a well-drilled partnership with the 40-year-old Ram, a four-times Grand Slam men's doubles champion, superb throughout with razor-sharp net play. In their two previous matches in Paris, Nadal and Alcaraz had ridden a wave of support, coming up with some inspired play to raise hopes that they could go all the way. But this time the 21-year-old Alcaraz, who earlier on Wednesday reached the singles quarter-finals, lacked his usual spark and served consecutive double faults to virtually hand the Americans the opening set. There was no coming back this time and Alcaraz dropped serve to love at 3-3 -- the Spaniards' frustration showing as they disputed a line call after a sizzling Ram winner. "I enjoyed every single second that we played together," Alcaraz said. "Disappointed as we wanted to keep going." Ram and Krajicek face Czech duo Tomas Machac and Adam Pavlasek for a place in the gold medal match.

Paris Olympics: 'Nadalcaraz' bow out! Doubles dream over for Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz in QFs

Paris Olympics: 'Nadalcaraz' bow out! Doubles dream over for Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz in quarters

Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz shrugged off crushing humidity on Wednesday to stay on course for an Olympic gold medal showdown as Zheng Qinwen ended the career of former world number one Angelique Kerber.

Djokovic, seeking a first Olympic title at Roland Garros to add to his record-breaking collection, defeated German left-hander Dominik Koepfer 7-5, 6-3, becoming the first man to reach four singles quarter-finals at the Games.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-1/news-williams-boss-james-vowles-surprised-red-bull-and-mercedes-did-not-chase-ferrari-star-carlos-sainz-746001">Williams boss James Vowles surprised Red Bull and Mercedes did not chase Ferrari star Carlos Sainz</a>

Alcaraz brushed aside Roman Safiullin, the Russian playing in Paris as a neutral, 6-4, 6-2.

In the women's singles, Zheng defeated Kerber 6-7 (4/7), 6-4, 7-6 (8/6) to become only the second Chinese player to reach an Olympic singles semi-final.

The 37-year-old Djokovic has only ever collected a bronze at the Olympics, at Beijing 16 years ago, but he was rarely troubled by his 70th-ranked opponent.

"I'm soaking wet, honestly," said Djokovic, who has won three of his 24 Grand Slam crowns on Paris's famous red clay.

"It's a very, very humid day as it was yesterday. But you have to accept and embrace the conditions and try to make the best out of it."

Djokovic, who had breezed past old rival Rafael Nadal in the second round, goes on to face 11th-ranked Stefanos Tsitsipas.

Djokovic boasts an 11-2 head-to-head record over Tsitsipas, including a victory from two sets down in the 2021 French Open final.

<h2>- 'Erased it' -</h2>

"I've erased it," said Tsitsipas when asked to recall that heartbreaking defeat.

"I can see he's motivated for this Olympics but I want to get out on the court and show that I'm a worthy player on the clay courts."

Despite his confidence, Tsitsipas has not defeated Djokovic for almost five years, with the world number two having claimed the last 10 meetings.

French Open and Wimbledon champion Alcaraz has also yet to drop a set in Paris and breezed past 66th-ranked Safiullin in 90 minutes.

Alcaraz broke serve four times and wrapped up victory with his fifth ace of the contest.

"I am really happy with the way I managed everything during the match. The conditions were really tough with the heat and it was really humid," said Alcaraz.

Up next for Alcaraz is Tommy Paul, the American he defeated in the Wimbledon quarter-finals.

Paul made the last eight by seeing off Corentin Moutet, whose defeat ended all French interest in the five Olympic tennis events.

Australian Open runner-up Zheng became the first Chinese woman since Li Na in 2008 to reach the singles semi-finals.

Her three-hour victory, in which she unleashed 64 winners, sent 36-year-old former world number one Kerber, a silver medallist at the 2016 Rio Games, into retirement.

<h2>- 'Leave in peace' -</h2>

"What can I say? I gave everything," said Kerber, who has slumped to 212 in the world rankings. "I have loved playing tennis. Now I can leave in peace."

Anna Karolina Schmiedlova is the first Slovakian player to make the Olympics semi-finals since Miloslav Mecir won the men's singles title at Seoul in 1988.

The 67th-ranked Schmiedlova stunned Wimbledon champion Barbora Krejcikova in straight sets.

Later Wednesday, Iga Swiatek, the four-time French Open champion, can claim a 25th successive win at Roland Garros by making the semi-finals of the Olympics for the first time when she takes on Danielle Collins of the United States.

In the remaining women's quarter-final Ukraine's Marta Kostyuk faces Wimbledon semi-finalist Donna Vekic of Croatia.

Defending men's champion Alexander Zverev, the third-seeded German, plays Australia's Alexei Popyrin while fourth-seeded Daniil Medvedev, also competing as a neutral, faces Canada's Felix Auger-Aliassime.

Nadal, chasing a third Olympic gold medal, plays for the fifth successive day as he and Alcaraz eye a place in the men's doubles semi-finals.

The Spaniards face a tricky last-eight tie against fourth seeds Austin Krajicek and Rajeev Ram of the United States.

(Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.)

Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz shrugged off crushing humidity on Wednesday to stay on course for an Olympic gold medal showdown as Zheng Qinwen ended the career of former world number one Angelique Kerber.

Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz shrugged off crushing humidity on Wednesday to stay on course for an Olympic gold medal showdown as Zheng Qinwen ended the career of former world number one Angelique Kerber. Djokovic, seeking a first Olympic title at Roland Garros to add to his record-breaking collection, defeated German left-hander Dominik Koepfer 7-5, 6-3, becoming the first man to reach four singles quarter-finals at the Games. Also Read: Williams boss James Vowles surprised Red Bull and Mercedes did not chase Ferrari star Carlos Sainz Alcaraz brushed aside Roman Safiullin, the Russian playing in Paris as a neutral, 6-4, 6-2. In the women's singles, Zheng defeated Kerber 6-7 (4/7), 6-4, 7-6 (8/6) to become only the second Chinese player to reach an Olympic singles semi-final. The 37-year-old Djokovic has only ever collected a bronze at the Olympics, at Beijing 16 years ago, but he was rarely troubled by his 70th-ranked opponent. "I'm soaking wet, honestly," said Djokovic, who has won three of his 24 Grand Slam crowns on Paris's famous red clay. "It's a very, very humid day as it was yesterday. But you have to accept and embrace the conditions and try to make the best out of it." Djokovic, who had breezed past old rival Rafael Nadal in the second round, goes on to face 11th-ranked Stefanos Tsitsipas. Djokovic boasts an 11-2 head-to-head record over Tsitsipas, including a victory from two sets down in the 2021 French Open final. - 'Erased it' - "I've erased it," said Tsitsipas when asked to recall that heartbreaking defeat. "I can see he's motivated for this Olympics but I want to get out on the court and show that I'm a worthy player on the clay courts." Despite his confidence, Tsitsipas has not defeated Djokovic for almost five years, with the world number two having claimed the last 10 meetings. French Open and Wimbledon champion Alcaraz has also yet to drop a set in Paris and breezed past 66th-ranked Safiullin in 90 minutes. Alcaraz broke serve four times and wrapped up victory with his fifth ace of the contest. "I am really happy with the way I managed everything during the match. The conditions were really tough with the heat and it was really humid," said Alcaraz. Up next for Alcaraz is Tommy Paul, the American he defeated in the Wimbledon quarter-finals. Paul made the last eight by seeing off Corentin Moutet, whose defeat ended all French interest in the five Olympic tennis events. Australian Open runner-up Zheng became the first Chinese woman since Li Na in 2008 to reach the singles semi-finals. Her three-hour victory, in which she unleashed 64 winners, sent 36-year-old former world number one Kerber, a silver medallist at the 2016 Rio Games, into retirement. - 'Leave in peace' - "What can I say? I gave everything," said Kerber, who has slumped to 212 in the world rankings. "I have loved playing tennis. Now I can leave in peace." Anna Karolina Schmiedlova is the first Slovakian player to make the Olympics semi-finals since Miloslav Mecir won the men's singles title at Seoul in 1988. The 67th-ranked Schmiedlova stunned Wimbledon champion Barbora Krejcikova in straight sets. Later Wednesday, Iga Swiatek, the four-time French Open champion, can claim a 25th successive win at Roland Garros by making the semi-finals of the Olympics for the first time when she takes on Danielle Collins of the United States. In the remaining women's quarter-final Ukraine's Marta Kostyuk faces Wimbledon semi-finalist Donna Vekic of Croatia. Defending men's champion Alexander Zverev, the third-seeded German, plays Australia's Alexei Popyrin while fourth-seeded Daniil Medvedev, also competing as a neutral, faces Canada's Felix Auger-Aliassime. Nadal, chasing a third Olympic gold medal, plays for the fifth successive day as he and Alcaraz eye a place in the men's doubles semi-finals. The Spaniards face a tricky last-eight tie against fourth seeds Austin Krajicek and Rajeev Ram of the United States. (Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.)

Paris Olympics: Djokovic, Alcaraz one step closer to set up tennis singles gold medal showdown

Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz have lit up the atmosphere at the&nbsp;Paris Olympics 2024 edition by teaming up in a doubles event for Spain. On Tuesday (July 30), the duo moved past Netherlands' Tallon Griekspoor and Wesley Koolhof in their second-round clash to progress to the quarterfinals. While on court, the pair has been an instant hit, but it hasn't been a smooth sail for them injury woes. Nadal returned to action&nbsp;in the Games, after a long injury layoff whereas young sensation Alcaraz -- who won the French Open and Wimbledon this year -- also shrugged off a groin injury scare during the ongoing competition.

In addition, the two aren't used to playing doubles. However, Nadal and Alcaraz -- widely known as 'Nadalcaraz' -- have still shown remarkable progress together but have plenty to achieve in the ongoing Games in Paris. After their second consecutive win, Nadal said they have been 'suffering but also having fun'.

Nadal, who is chasing a third Olympic gold, said, "We had fun because the score was positive in the (match) tie-break. We have been suffering but we are enjoying playing together, we are creating good synergies, good energy, so yeah, we are having fun in general terms. We have the positive relationship outside of the court that helps inside (the court)."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/news-paris-olympics-brazilian-surfers-mindboggling-image-goes-viral-photographer-hailed-for-brilliant-capture-745839">Paris Olympics: Brazilian surfer's MINDBOGGLING image goes VIRAL, photographer HAILED for brilliant capture</a>

The Spaniard further added, "We are not used to playing doubles so the only way to make that work well is to play with happiness, with energy, with high energy. That's what we are trying to do."

Nadalcaraz beat the Dutch pair, on Tuesday, by virtue of a 6-4, 6-7 (2), 10-4 scoreline at the Roland Garros to progress ahead. Talking about the men's singles competition, Nadal is already out of the reckoning following a second-round loss to longtime rival Novak Djokovic whereas Alcaraz is in&nbsp;the third round.

Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz have lit up the atmosphere at the Paris Olympics 2024 edition by teaming up in a doubles event for Spain. On Tuesday (July 30), the duo moved past Netherlands' Tallon Griekspoor and Wesley Koolhof in their second-round clash to progress to the quarterfinals.

Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz have lit up the atmosphere at the Paris Olympics 2024 edition by teaming up in a doubles event for Spain. On Tuesday (July 30), the duo moved past Netherlands' Tallon Griekspoor and Wesley Koolhof in their second-round clash to progress to the quarterfinals. While on court, the pair has been an instant hit, but it hasn't been a smooth sail for them injury woes. Nadal returned to action in the Games, after a long injury layoff whereas young sensation Alcaraz -- who won the French Open and Wimbledon this year -- also shrugged off a groin injury scare during the ongoing competition. In addition, the two aren't used to playing doubles. However, Nadal and Alcaraz -- widely known as 'Nadalcaraz' -- have still shown remarkable progress together but have plenty to achieve in the ongoing Games in Paris. After their second consecutive win, Nadal said they have been 'suffering but also having fun'. Nadal, who is chasing a third Olympic gold, said, "We had fun because the score was positive in the (match) tie-break. We have been suffering but we are enjoying playing together, we are creating good synergies, good energy, so yeah, we are having fun in general terms. We have the positive relationship outside of the court that helps inside (the court)." Also read: Paris Olympics: Brazilian surfer's MINDBOGGLING image goes VIRAL, photographer HAILED for brilliant capture The Spaniard further added, "We are not used to playing doubles so the only way to make that work well is to play with happiness, with energy, with high energy. That's what we are trying to do." Nadalcaraz beat the Dutch pair, on Tuesday, by virtue of a 6-4, 6-7 (2), 10-4 scoreline at the Roland Garros to progress ahead. Talking about the men's singles competition, Nadal is already out of the reckoning following a second-round loss to longtime rival Novak Djokovic whereas Alcaraz is in the third round.

'Nadalcaraz' have been suffering but...: Nadal's BIG claim on playing with Carlos Alcaraz in Paris Olympics

Carlos Alcaraz shrugged off an injury scare to reach the last 16 of the Olympic singles tennis on Monday and said he will fight to be "100 percent" for doubles with Rafael Nadal.

The world number three from Spain beat Tallon Griekspoor of the Netherlands 6-1, 7-6 (7/3) to stay on course for a gold medal to add to his four Grand Slam titles.

The 21-year-old Alcaraz is back on court on Tuesday alongside Nadal when he will again face Griekspoor, who partners Wesley Koolhof.

"It's a pain that I've been dealing with the last tournaments so I know what I have to do," Alcaraz said of his groin niggle.

"It's normal for a tennis player as this game is so demanding.

"I will try to recover and be ready and at 100 percent in the doubles."

Alcaraz, the reigning French Open and Wimbledon champion, needed to leave the court to have treatment on his right leg late in the second set and then had to save a set point.

In the next round of singles he will face Roman Safiullin, the Russian player competing at the Olympics as a neutral.

Earlier Monday, Alcaraz had seen Nadal swept off court by old rival Novak Djokovic in straight sets in the pair's 60th meeting.

The defeat ended injury-plagued Nadal's outside hopes of winning a second singles gold after his 2008 triumph in Beijing.

But Alcaraz can still help his compatriot win a second doubles gold after Nadal teamed with Marc Lopez at the 2016 Rio Games.

"When Djokovic is playing at this level it's really, really difficult to play against him," said Alcaraz.

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"He was really aggressive, made no mistakes, moving very, very well. I saw Rafa playing let's say not his best tennis for sure.

"But when Djokovic is like this, he was the better one."

Griekspoor, 28, lost for the third time in three meetings with Alcaraz and has yet to win a set off the Spaniard.

"I didn't see any problems with him," said the 28th-ranked Dutchman.

"He went for every shot in the tiebreak. It's not like he fell down or twisted his ankle and that he couldn't walk anymore. For me, he was still all over the place."

Carlos Alcaraz shrugged off an injury scare to reach the last 16 of the Olympic singles tennis on Monday and said he will fight to be "100 percent" for doubles with Rafael Nadal.

Carlos Alcaraz shrugged off an injury scare to reach the last 16 of the Olympic singles tennis on Monday and said he will fight to be "100 percent" for doubles with Rafael Nadal. The world number three from Spain beat Tallon Griekspoor of the Netherlands 6-1, 7-6 (7/3) to stay on course for a gold medal to add to his four Grand Slam titles. The 21-year-old Alcaraz is back on court on Tuesday alongside Nadal when he will again face Griekspoor, who partners Wesley Koolhof. "It's a pain that I've been dealing with the last tournaments so I know what I have to do," Alcaraz said of his groin niggle. "It's normal for a tennis player as this game is so demanding. "I will try to recover and be ready and at 100 percent in the doubles." Alcaraz, the reigning French Open and Wimbledon champion, needed to leave the court to have treatment on his right leg late in the second set and then had to save a set point. In the next round of singles he will face Roman Safiullin, the Russian player competing at the Olympics as a neutral. Earlier Monday, Alcaraz had seen Nadal swept off court by old rival Novak Djokovic in straight sets in the pair's 60th meeting. The defeat ended injury-plagued Nadal's outside hopes of winning a second singles gold after his 2008 triumph in Beijing. But Alcaraz can still help his compatriot win a second doubles gold after Nadal teamed with Marc Lopez at the 2016 Rio Games. "When Djokovic is playing at this level it's really, really difficult to play against him," said Alcaraz. ALSO READ | Paris Olympics 2024: India day 4 event schedule, timings, medal games, athletes and all you need to know "He was really aggressive, made no mistakes, moving very, very well. I saw Rafa playing let's say not his best tennis for sure. "But when Djokovic is like this, he was the better one." Griekspoor, 28, lost for the third time in three meetings with Alcaraz and has yet to win a set off the Spaniard. "I didn't see any problems with him," said the 28th-ranked Dutchman. "He went for every shot in the tiebreak. It's not like he fell down or twisted his ankle and that he couldn't walk anymore. For me, he was still all over the place."

Paris Olympics 2024: Carlos Alcaraz shrugs off injury scare, hopes to be 100% with Rafael Nadal

Rafa Nadal returned to his favourite stomping ground with young sidekick Carlos Alcaraz as Spain's new dream team took their first stride on the road to Olympic gold on Saturday.

The 38-year-old king of Roland Garros and the new 21-year-old prince of men's tennis, were roared on by a packed Court Philippe Chatrier crowd during a 7-6(4) 6-4 defeat of sixth-seeded Argentine pair Maximo Gonzalez and Andres Molteni.

Alcaraz had played earlier, beating Lebanon's Hady Habib 6-3 6-1 in the singles on a rain-hit opening day of Olympics tennis in which only a handful of matches were completed.

Men's top seed Novak Djokovic thrashed Australian alternate Matthew Ebden 6-0 6-1 after women's favourite Iga Swiatek of Poland launched her bid for gold with a scrappy 6-2 7-5 win against Romania's Irina-Camelia Begu.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-olympics-2024-sensational-antoine-dupont-powers-france-to-rugby-sevens-gold-744896">Paris Olympics 2024: Sensational Antoine Dupont powers France to rugby sevens gold</a>

But the day's headline act was always going to be the opening chapter of the 'Nadalcaraz' story which will surely etch itself into the Parisian red clay over the coming days.

It was the first time 14-times French Open champion Nadal and Alcaraz, winner of four Grand Slams including this year's French Open and Wimbledon, had played together in competition.

There were some misfires and Alcaraz admitted he was nervous playing with his idol, but they gelled quickly enough to subdue the skilful south American duo in front of Nadal's son Rafa Jr and the two daughters of Spain's King Felipe.

"An unforgettable moment for me, without a doubt," Nadal told reporters. "I think for him too, to come out here on this stage and play together representing Spain in the Olympic Games is a combination that is difficult to beat."

Nadal's preparation was unusual in the extreme, the Spaniard having spent Friday night carrying the Olympic torch in a boat on a choppy River Seine in the rain at the opening ceremony.

There were also injury concerns ahead of what is likely to be his last dance at Roland Garros, but Nadal rolled back the years on the rectangle of red dirt he first conquered when Alcaraz was a two-year-old.

<h2>‘Smartest Decision’</h2>

Nadal is due play Hungary's Marton Fucsovics in a Sunday schedule featuring a whopping 68 matches, although the Spaniard, who won singles gold in 2008 and the doubles in 2016, said he would have to speak with his team.

"I'll talk with my people and then make the smartest decision possible to have the best chances to bring some medals back home," Nadal, who has toyed with ending his glittering career this season because of injuries, said.

While Nadal chases a third Olympic title, 24-times Grand Slam champion Djokovic is yet to bag one in four previous Games.

Djokovic has suffered some heart-breaking Olympic disappointments, twice losing in singles semi-finals, with his only medal being a singles bronze from 2008.

The 37-year-old could not have asked for an easier start in his bid to fill the gap in his trophy cabinet as he dispatched doubles specialist Ebden in 53 minutes.

Djokovic could next face Nadal if his old Spanish adversary beats Fucsovics.

"He has to win his first round tomorrow, but playing him is like a final for me in any tournament, and particularly here, knowing what he has achieved," the Serb said of a potential 11th career meeting with Nadal at Roland Garros.

Swiatek opened proceedings under the closed Court Philippe Chatrier 50 days after winning her fourth French Open on the same arena, and admitted it had been a tough start.

"I'm happy that I'm through because first rounds are never easy, especially at the Olympics," she told reporters after matching her run to the second round in Tokyo.

The opening day of tennis was disrupted by heavy rain with thousands of fans without tickets left frustrated as not a ball was struck on the uncovered courts.

Italy's French Open and Wimbledon runner-up Jasmine Paolini beat Romania's Ana Bogdan 7-5 6-3, while a soggy day ended with Germany's retiring Angelique Kerber extending her career a bit longer with a win by the same score over Japan's Naomi Osaka.

There was heartbreak for French favourite Caroline Garcia, though, as she lost to Romanian Jaqueline Cristian.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Rafa Nadal returned to his favourite stomping ground with young sidekick Carlos Alcaraz as Spain's new dream team took their first stride on the road to Olympic gold on Saturday.

Rafa Nadal returned to his favourite stomping ground with young sidekick Carlos Alcaraz as Spain's new dream team took their first stride on the road to Olympic gold on Saturday. The 38-year-old king of Roland Garros and the new 21-year-old prince of men's tennis, were roared on by a packed Court Philippe Chatrier crowd during a 7-6(4) 6-4 defeat of sixth-seeded Argentine pair Maximo Gonzalez and Andres Molteni. Alcaraz had played earlier, beating Lebanon's Hady Habib 6-3 6-1 in the singles on a rain-hit opening day of Olympics tennis in which only a handful of matches were completed. Men's top seed Novak Djokovic thrashed Australian alternate Matthew Ebden 6-0 6-1 after women's favourite Iga Swiatek of Poland launched her bid for gold with a scrappy 6-2 7-5 win against Romania's Irina-Camelia Begu. ALSO READ: Paris Olympics 2024: Sensational Antoine Dupont powers France to rugby sevens gold But the day's headline act was always going to be the opening chapter of the 'Nadalcaraz' story which will surely etch itself into the Parisian red clay over the coming days. It was the first time 14-times French Open champion Nadal and Alcaraz, winner of four Grand Slams including this year's French Open and Wimbledon, had played together in competition. There were some misfires and Alcaraz admitted he was nervous playing with his idol, but they gelled quickly enough to subdue the skilful south American duo in front of Nadal's son Rafa Jr and the two daughters of Spain's King Felipe. "An unforgettable moment for me, without a doubt," Nadal told reporters. "I think for him too, to come out here on this stage and play together representing Spain in the Olympic Games is a combination that is difficult to beat." Nadal's preparation was unusual in the extreme, the Spaniard having spent Friday night carrying the Olympic torch in a boat on a choppy River Seine in the rain at the opening ceremony. There were also injury concerns ahead of what is likely to be his last dance at Roland Garros, but Nadal rolled back the years on the rectangle of red dirt he first conquered when Alcaraz was a two-year-old. ‘Smartest Decision’ Nadal is due play Hungary's Marton Fucsovics in a Sunday schedule featuring a whopping 68 matches, although the Spaniard, who won singles gold in 2008 and the doubles in 2016, said he would have to speak with his team. "I'll talk with my people and then make the smartest decision possible to have the best chances to bring some medals back home," Nadal, who has toyed with ending his glittering career this season because of injuries, said. While Nadal chases a third Olympic title, 24-times Grand Slam champion Djokovic is yet to bag one in four previous Games. Djokovic has suffered some heart-breaking Olympic disappointments, twice losing in singles semi-finals, with his only medal being a singles bronze from 2008. The 37-year-old could not have asked for an easier start in his bid to fill the gap in his trophy cabinet as he dispatched doubles specialist Ebden in 53 minutes. Djokovic could next face Nadal if his old Spanish adversary beats Fucsovics. "He has to win his first round tomorrow, but playing him is like a final for me in any tournament, and particularly here, knowing what he has achieved," the Serb said of a potential 11th career meeting with Nadal at Roland Garros. Swiatek opened proceedings under the closed Court Philippe Chatrier 50 days after winning her fourth French Open on the same arena, and admitted it had been a tough start. "I'm happy that I'm through because first rounds are never easy, especially at the Olympics," she told reporters after matching her run to the second round in Tokyo. The opening day of tennis was disrupted by heavy rain with thousands of fans without tickets left frustrated as not a ball was struck on the uncovered courts. Italy's French Open and Wimbledon runner-up Jasmine Paolini beat Romania's Ana Bogdan 7-5 6-3, while a soggy day ended with Germany's retiring Angelique Kerber extending her career a bit longer with a win by the same score over Japan's Naomi Osaka. There was heartbreak for French favourite Caroline Garcia, though, as she lost to Romanian Jaqueline Cristian. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Paris Olympics 2024: Nadal and Alcaraz begin gold medal quest with comfortable win in doubles opener

Superstar Spanish duo Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz have played down medal expectations in the forthcoming Paris Olympics 2024 edition, which kicks off on Friday (July 26). The two will partner each other in the doubles event, which has become a huge talking point. While there are high expectations, they have reasoned out to not expect much given the two have not played doubles a lot in recent past.

<h2>'Carlos hasn't played many doubles,&nbsp;I haven't played many doubles or&nbsp;singles lately'</h2>

Speaking to the reporters, on Wednesday (July 24), the 38-year-old Nadal said, "I understand a little bit the morbid illusion of seeing us play together but let's not think that this translates into success, I think it's a mistake. Carlos hasn't played many doubles and I haven't played many doubles or many singles lately."

"We are going to do our best to try, at least, to leave with the peace of mind of having done everything possible to get where we can get (but) obviously, we have not been able to prepare together for a tournament like this, where there are other doubles teams that have been preparing," he added.

The Spaniard further said, "Things happen much faster, the reflexes have to be ready and the movements are not automatic when one has not played for a long time, there are doubles movements that are completely different from the individual ones."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-paris-olympics-2024-world-number-1-jannik-sinner-out-of-games-with-tonsillitis-743891">Paris Olympics 2024: World number 1 Jannik Sinner out of Games with tonsillitis</a>

Meanwhile, Alcaraz -- who is coming off a win in French Open and Wimbledon -- pointed out, "I have not had the opportunity to play many doubles tournaments, but obviously having the illusion of returning to Roland Garros, to these courts that I have always enjoyed playing... makes it easier."

He concluded, "We also have days of training, individually and doubles to adapt as best as possible again, for my part to return to clay and be able to gain confidence to start the tournament in the best possible way."

Nadal's career has gone downhill due to plethora of injury concerns since 2022. Alcaraz, on the other hand, is in prime form. It will be interesting to see how the two gel on court and how far they can go in the doubles event. Spanish fans are certainly hoping for gold from this dream pair in the doubles.

Notably, the Olympic tennis competition will commence on July 27 and will go on till Aug&nbsp;4.

Superstar Spanish duo Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz have played down medal expectations in the forthcoming Paris Olympics 2024 edition, which kicks off on Friday (July 26).

Superstar Spanish duo Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz have played down medal expectations in the forthcoming Paris Olympics 2024 edition, which kicks off on Friday (July 26). The two will partner each other in the doubles event, which has become a huge talking point. While there are high expectations, they have reasoned out to not expect much given the two have not played doubles a lot in recent past. 'Carlos hasn't played many doubles, I haven't played many doubles or singles lately' Speaking to the reporters, on Wednesday (July 24), the 38-year-old Nadal said, "I understand a little bit the morbid illusion of seeing us play together but let's not think that this translates into success, I think it's a mistake. Carlos hasn't played many doubles and I haven't played many doubles or many singles lately." "We are going to do our best to try, at least, to leave with the peace of mind of having done everything possible to get where we can get (but) obviously, we have not been able to prepare together for a tournament like this, where there are other doubles teams that have been preparing," he added. The Spaniard further said, "Things happen much faster, the reflexes have to be ready and the movements are not automatic when one has not played for a long time, there are doubles movements that are completely different from the individual ones." Also read: Paris Olympics 2024: World number 1 Jannik Sinner out of Games with tonsillitis Meanwhile, Alcaraz -- who is coming off a win in French Open and Wimbledon -- pointed out, "I have not had the opportunity to play many doubles tournaments, but obviously having the illusion of returning to Roland Garros, to these courts that I have always enjoyed playing... makes it easier." He concluded, "We also have days of training, individually and doubles to adapt as best as possible again, for my part to return to clay and be able to gain confidence to start the tournament in the best possible way." Nadal's career has gone downhill due to plethora of injury concerns since 2022. Alcaraz, on the other hand, is in prime form. It will be interesting to see how the two gel on court and how far they can go in the doubles event. Spanish fans are certainly hoping for gold from this dream pair in the doubles. Notably, the Olympic tennis competition will commence on July 27 and will go on till Aug 4.

Paris Olympics 2024: 'Think it's a mistake' - Rafael Nadal, Carlos Alcaraz downplay medal expectations

Spain's Carlos Alcaraz beat Serbian Novak Djokovic 6-2, 6-2, 7-6 (7-4) in straight sets on Sunday (Jul 14) at SW19 to defend his Wimbledon men's singles title. Third-seed Alcaraz had won his maiden Wimbledon title in 2023 after beating Djokovic in the final.

With the win, Alcaraz became only the fourth player in the Open Era to win four grand slams before turning 21. The other three are Boris Becker, Bjorn Borg and Mats Wilander.

He had previously won the US Open 2022 before winning the Championships an year later. He also won the French Open 2024 earlier this year.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-wi-2024-joe-root-dismisses-retirement-talks-after-james-andersons-departure-740756">ENG vs WI 2024: Joe Root dismisses retirement talks after James Anderson’s departure</a>

Alcaraz also became only the sixth player to win French Open and Wimbledon back-to-back.

The Spaniard didn't break a sweat in winning the first two sets but had to fight hard for the third. Djokovic, the winner of record 24 grand slam titles, took the game to a tiebreaker, but it wasn't enough.

Alcaraz's dominance was clear throughout the match as he created 14 break points and won five of them. Djokovic, in return, could manage to win only one break point in three attempts.

Alcaraz won 13 service games to go with 67 service points while the Serb managed 59 service points in nine service games.

All in all, Alcaraz won 109 points, including 42 receiving points, 19 games. Djokovic was thoroughly outclassed, winning 87 points in total, including 28 receiving points, in the 10 games he won across three sets.

Djokovic, aged 37 and coming back from a knee injury, is having a tough year. The loss meant he has not beaten a top-ten player in the ongoing year and is yet to win a title.

Alcaraz, who's in red-hot form as Djokovic said at the post-match interview, will now feature in upcoming Paris Olympics for his maiden gold.

Spain's Carlos Alcaraz beat Serbian Novak Djokovic 6-2, 6-2, 7-6 (7-4) in straight sets on Sunday (Jul 14) at SW19 to defend his Wimbledon men's singles title. Third-seed Alcaraz had won his maiden Wimbledon title in 2023 after beating Djokovic in the final.

Spain's Carlos Alcaraz beat Serbian Novak Djokovic 6-2, 6-2, 7-6 (7-4) in straight sets on Sunday (Jul 14) at SW19 to defend his Wimbledon men's singles title. Third-seed Alcaraz had won his maiden Wimbledon title in 2023 after beating Djokovic in the final. With the win, Alcaraz became only the fourth player in the Open Era to win four grand slams before turning 21. The other three are Boris Becker, Bjorn Borg and Mats Wilander. He had previously won the US Open 2022 before winning the Championships an year later. He also won the French Open 2024 earlier this year. Also Read: ENG vs WI 2024: Joe Root dismisses retirement talks after James Anderson’s departure Alcaraz also became only the sixth player to win French Open and Wimbledon back-to-back. The Spaniard didn't break a sweat in winning the first two sets but had to fight hard for the third. Djokovic, the winner of record 24 grand slam titles, took the game to a tiebreaker, but it wasn't enough. Alcaraz's dominance was clear throughout the match as he created 14 break points and won five of them. Djokovic, in return, could manage to win only one break point in three attempts. Alcaraz won 13 service games to go with 67 service points while the Serb managed 59 service points in nine service games. All in all, Alcaraz won 109 points, including 42 receiving points, 19 games. Djokovic was thoroughly outclassed, winning 87 points in total, including 28 receiving points, in the 10 games he won across three sets. Djokovic, aged 37 and coming back from a knee injury, is having a tough year. The loss meant he has not beaten a top-ten player in the ongoing year and is yet to win a title. Alcaraz, who's in red-hot form as Djokovic said at the post-match interview, will now feature in upcoming Paris Olympics for his maiden gold.

Wimbledon 2024: Carlos Alcaraz beats Novak Djokovic in straight sets to defend title

Novak Djokovic insists he will return to Wimbledon next year and attempt to clinch an eighth All England Club title despite a shattering straight-sets defeat to Carlos Alcaraz in Sunday's final.

Djokovic saw his hopes of a record-setting 25th Grand Slam title ruthlessly brushed aside by the 21-year-old Spanish star who had also defeated the Serb in last year's championship match.

Even though the clock is ticking on Djokovic's career, he said he will keep playing into 2025, when he will turn 38.

"As far as coming back here, I would love to. I don't have anything else in my thoughts right now that this is my last Wimbledon," he said after his 6-2, 6-2, 7-6 (7/4) loss.

"I don't have any limitations in my mind. I still want to keep going and play as long as I feel like I can play on this high level."

So far this season Djokovic has seen his Australian Open title pass to Jannik Sinner, the 22-year-old Italian who has also taken his world number one ranking.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/euro-2024-final-england-coach-gareth-southgate-needs-time-to-decide-on-future-after-another-failure-740894">Euro 2024 Final: England coach Gareth Southgate needs time to decide on future after another failure</a>

Alcaraz succeeded him as French Open champion in Paris last month, where Djokovic was forced to withdraw before his quarter-final due to a knee injury which then required surgery.

Djokovic is due to return to the French capital in under two weeks' time, when he will try to win an elusive Olympic Games gold medal.

After that, he will attempt to defend his US Open title in New York.

"I have intentions to play the Olympic Games, hopefully have a chance to fight for a medal for my country," he said. "On a completely different surface (clay) obviously, going back to the place where I got injured some weeks ago. Let's see how physically and mentally I'm going to feel."

Despite the upbeat forecast on his future plans, Djokovic is enduring a sub-par year by his standards.

He is without a title since winning the ATP Finals in November last year and has yet to defeat a top-10 opponent in 2024.

On Sunday, he was out-hit by Alcaraz, who clubbed 42 winners to 26 and created 14 break points, five of which he converted.

"To beat these guys (Alcaraz and Sinner) in Grand Slam latter stages or the Olympics, I'm going to have to play much better than I did today and feel much better than I did today," admitted Djokovic.

"I'm going to work on it. It's not something I haven't experienced before ever in my life. I've had so many different experiences throughout my career. In the face of adversity, normally I rise and I learn and get stronger. That's what I'm going to do."

Novak Djokovic insists he will return to Wimbledon next year and attempt to clinch an eighth All England Club title despite a shattering straight-sets defeat to Carlos Alcaraz in Sunday's final.

Novak Djokovic insists he will return to Wimbledon next year and attempt to clinch an eighth All England Club title despite a shattering straight-sets defeat to Carlos Alcaraz in Sunday's final. Djokovic saw his hopes of a record-setting 25th Grand Slam title ruthlessly brushed aside by the 21-year-old Spanish star who had also defeated the Serb in last year's championship match. Even though the clock is ticking on Djokovic's career, he said he will keep playing into 2025, when he will turn 38. "As far as coming back here, I would love to. I don't have anything else in my thoughts right now that this is my last Wimbledon," he said after his 6-2, 6-2, 7-6 (7/4) loss. "I don't have any limitations in my mind. I still want to keep going and play as long as I feel like I can play on this high level." So far this season Djokovic has seen his Australian Open title pass to Jannik Sinner, the 22-year-old Italian who has also taken his world number one ranking. ALSO READ: Euro 2024 Final: England coach Gareth Southgate needs time to decide on future after another failure Alcaraz succeeded him as French Open champion in Paris last month, where Djokovic was forced to withdraw before his quarter-final due to a knee injury which then required surgery. Djokovic is due to return to the French capital in under two weeks' time, when he will try to win an elusive Olympic Games gold medal. After that, he will attempt to defend his US Open title in New York. "I have intentions to play the Olympic Games, hopefully have a chance to fight for a medal for my country," he said. "On a completely different surface (clay) obviously, going back to the place where I got injured some weeks ago. Let's see how physically and mentally I'm going to feel." Despite the upbeat forecast on his future plans, Djokovic is enduring a sub-par year by his standards. He is without a title since winning the ATP Finals in November last year and has yet to defeat a top-10 opponent in 2024. On Sunday, he was out-hit by Alcaraz, who clubbed 42 winners to 26 and created 14 break points, five of which he converted. "To beat these guys (Alcaraz and Sinner) in Grand Slam latter stages or the Olympics, I'm going to have to play much better than I did today and feel much better than I did today," admitted Djokovic. "I'm going to work on it. It's not something I haven't experienced before ever in my life. I've had so many different experiences throughout my career. In the face of adversity, normally I rise and I learn and get stronger. That's what I'm going to do."

Wimbledon 2024: Novak Djokovic vows to return next year after Alcaraz mauling in one-sided final

Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz has moved a step closer to defending the Wimbledon crown after getting the better of Daniil Medvedev in the semifinal on Friday (July 12). Playing in the repeat of last year’s semifinal, Alcaraz beat Medvedev 6-7, 6-3, 6-4, 6-4 to book a place in the final of the Wimbledon Championships. He could likely face Novak Djokovic in the showdown clash on Sunday which could be a repeat of last year’s final if the Serbian gets the better of his opponent in the second semifinal.

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VAMOS CARLITOS 🇪🇸 
 
Still only 21, a second <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Wimbledon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Wimbledon</a> final awaits ✨ <a href="https://t.co/y48w7aUFud">pic.twitter.com/y48w7aUFud</a>
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<h2>Alcaraz moves step closer to title defence</h2>

Having beaten Medvedev in last year’s semis, the confidence was high for the Spaniard but he was quickly pulled down to Earth. He lost his serve early in the first set and faced total domination from the Russian counterpart, even serving to stay in the set. However, Alcaraz did enough to take the opening set into a tiebreak but was outclassed having won only one point.

However, there was no real issue for the 21-year-old as he then started dominance while capitalising on every break of serve. He would break his opponent once and hold his serve on each of the next three consecutive sets. The defending champions had no issues in winning the three consequent sets and pocket the Wimbledon semis for the second consecutive year.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-are-charged-up-and-well-prepared-dani-olmo-on-spains-buildup-to-euro-final-against-england-740305">‘We are charged up and well prepared' - Dani Olmo on Spain’s buildup to Euro Final against England</a>

So far at Wimbledon 2024, Alcaraz has dropped five sets on his run to the final and could have a stern test in defending his crown. He will face the winners of Novak Djokovic and Lorenzo Musetti who will&nbsp;collide in the second semifinal.

<h2>Spain looking forward to Super Sunday</h2>

While Alcaraz battles for the Wimbledon title on Sunday representing Spain in London, their national football team will also have a big day when they face England in the final of the Euro 2024. The final in Berlin will start late in the evening, probably after Alcaraz’s final at Wimbledon is over. If both emerge victorious it could be a double joy for Spain in sports.

Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz has moved a step closer to defending the Wimbledon crown after getting the better of Daniil Medvedev in the semifinal on Friday (July 12).

Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz has moved a step closer to defending the Wimbledon crown after getting the better of Daniil Medvedev in the semifinal on Friday (July 12). Playing in the repeat of last year’s semifinal, Alcaraz beat Medvedev 6-7, 6-3, 6-4, 6-4 to book a place in the final of the Wimbledon Championships. He could likely face Novak Djokovic in the showdown clash on Sunday which could be a repeat of last year’s final if the Serbian gets the better of his opponent in the second semifinal. VAMOS CARLITOS 🇪🇸 Still only 21, a second #Wimbledon final awaits ✨ pic.twitter.com/y48w7aUFud — Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 12, 2024 × Alcaraz moves step closer to title defence Having beaten Medvedev in last year’s semis, the confidence was high for the Spaniard but he was quickly pulled down to Earth. He lost his serve early in the first set and faced total domination from the Russian counterpart, even serving to stay in the set. However, Alcaraz did enough to take the opening set into a tiebreak but was outclassed having won only one point. However, there was no real issue for the 21-year-old as he then started dominance while capitalising on every break of serve. He would break his opponent once and hold his serve on each of the next three consecutive sets. The defending champions had no issues in winning the three consequent sets and pocket the Wimbledon semis for the second consecutive year. ALSO READ | ‘We are charged up and well prepared' - Dani Olmo on Spain’s buildup to Euro Final against England So far at Wimbledon 2024, Alcaraz has dropped five sets on his run to the final and could have a stern test in defending his crown. He will face the winners of Novak Djokovic and Lorenzo Musetti who will collide in the second semifinal. Spain looking forward to Super Sunday While Alcaraz battles for the Wimbledon title on Sunday representing Spain in London, their national football team will also have a big day when they face England in the final of the Euro 2024. The final in Berlin will start late in the evening, probably after Alcaraz’s final at Wimbledon is over. If both emerge victorious it could be a double joy for Spain in sports.

Carlos Alcaraz moves step closer to defending Wimbledon crown after beating Daniil Medvedev in semis

Seven-times champion Novak Djokovic produced some of his best tennis to outclass Italian 25th seed Lorenzo Musetti 6-4 7-6(2) 6-4 on Friday and reach a 10th Wimbledon final, where he will meet holder Carlos Alcaraz in a mouth-watering 2023 rematch.

Sunday's blockbuster meeting will be the first time that the same pair will compete for the gilded Challenge Cup in back-to-back years since the Serbian and his and great rival Roger Federer faced off in 2014-15.

"Wimbledon has been a childhood dream to play and to win... I was a seven-year-old boy watching bombs fly over my head and dreaming of being on the most important court in the world," Djokovic told the Centre Court crowd.

"I was constructing Wimbledon trophies out of any material in the room. It's been an incredible journey. I try not to take it for granted every time I find myself on this unique court.

"Obviously during the match it's business time and... I try outplay my opponent. I'm satisfied and pleased, but I don't want to stop here. Hopefully I get my hands on the trophy."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-carlos-alcaraz-moves-step-closer-to-defending-wimbledon-crown-after-edging-daniil-medvedev-in-semis-740326">Carlos Alcaraz moves step closer to defending Wimbledon crown after beating Daniil Medvedev in semis</a>

With the arena still filling up following Alcaraz's 6-7(1) 6-3 6-4 6-4 win over fifth seed Daniil Medvedev a short while earlier, second seed Djokovic broke after a breathtaking 26-shot rally in the sixth game of the opening set.

The 37-year-old had angrily lashed out at Centre Court fans after his fourth-round victory over Holger Rune but he raised his arms and demanded more from the crowd on Friday, drawing some boos from them.

Fans got behind Musetti, who was spurred into action as he broke back to make it 4-5 with a fiery forehand but the 22-year-old gifted the set to his opponent after a shaky service game.

Musetti quickly made amends and inroads in the second set, producing a stunning backhand pass for a 3-1 lead, but Djokovic was unperturbed as he clawed his way back and raised his level significantly at the end to clinch the tiebreak.

With a sixth straight All England Club final and his first of an unusually patchy season within sight, the 24-times Grand Slam champion pounced for a break in the opening game of the third set with a backhand crosscourt winner.

Djokovic mixed up his game by serving and volleying to leave Musetti on the ropes, before staving off a late comeback attempt from the Italian to save a break point and prevail on his fourth match point when the Italian sent a shot long.

He celebrated the win with his now-familiar act of imitating playing the violin with his racket, a nod to his daughter in the stands who is learning to play the instrument, but he drew more boos from the fans.

Djokovic will not mind being the pantomime villain if he can win a men's record-equalling eighth Wimbledon trophy, especially since his participation had been in doubt after he had to undergo knee surgery just five weeks ago.

"I came to London eight days before the tournament started. I didn't know (if I would play). I was keeping everything open until the day of the draw," Djokovic said.

"I played a couple of practice sets with top players and that proved to me I was in good enough state to not just be in Wimbledon, but to go deep into the tournament.

"That kind of mentality is there and is ever present. Thanks to the team members for helping me."

Musetti, who had dragged Djokovic to five sets in the latest ever finish at Roland Garros last month, was left to rue another defeat and another lost opportunity to pull off a major upset.

"This was the seventh time that we were playing against each other and I've never faced a Nole like this," Musetti said.

"I was really impressed... I think his tennis really fits well on this surface. Especially how he returns. I have to say today was really a joke at the end how he was returning.

"Also, in important points he was playing, especially in the second set, like at the end, I had chances to break him, but he was serving really well. He deserved to win."

Seven-times champion Novak Djokovic produced some of his best tennis to outclass Italian 25th seed Lorenzo Musetti 6-4 7-6(2) 6-4 on Friday and reach a 10th Wimbledon final, where he will meet holder Carlos Alcaraz in a mouth-watering 2023 rematch.

Seven-times champion Novak Djokovic produced some of his best tennis to outclass Italian 25th seed Lorenzo Musetti 6-4 7-6(2) 6-4 on Friday and reach a 10th Wimbledon final, where he will meet holder Carlos Alcaraz in a mouth-watering 2023 rematch. Sunday's blockbuster meeting will be the first time that the same pair will compete for the gilded Challenge Cup in back-to-back years since the Serbian and his and great rival Roger Federer faced off in 2014-15. "Wimbledon has been a childhood dream to play and to win... I was a seven-year-old boy watching bombs fly over my head and dreaming of being on the most important court in the world," Djokovic told the Centre Court crowd. "I was constructing Wimbledon trophies out of any material in the room. It's been an incredible journey. I try not to take it for granted every time I find myself on this unique court. "Obviously during the match it's business time and... I try outplay my opponent. I'm satisfied and pleased, but I don't want to stop here. Hopefully I get my hands on the trophy." ALSO READ: Carlos Alcaraz moves step closer to defending Wimbledon crown after beating Daniil Medvedev in semis With the arena still filling up following Alcaraz's 6-7(1) 6-3 6-4 6-4 win over fifth seed Daniil Medvedev a short while earlier, second seed Djokovic broke after a breathtaking 26-shot rally in the sixth game of the opening set. The 37-year-old had angrily lashed out at Centre Court fans after his fourth-round victory over Holger Rune but he raised his arms and demanded more from the crowd on Friday, drawing some boos from them. Fans got behind Musetti, who was spurred into action as he broke back to make it 4-5 with a fiery forehand but the 22-year-old gifted the set to his opponent after a shaky service game. Musetti quickly made amends and inroads in the second set, producing a stunning backhand pass for a 3-1 lead, but Djokovic was unperturbed as he clawed his way back and raised his level significantly at the end to clinch the tiebreak. With a sixth straight All England Club final and his first of an unusually patchy season within sight, the 24-times Grand Slam champion pounced for a break in the opening game of the third set with a backhand crosscourt winner. Djokovic mixed up his game by serving and volleying to leave Musetti on the ropes, before staving off a late comeback attempt from the Italian to save a break point and prevail on his fourth match point when the Italian sent a shot long. He celebrated the win with his now-familiar act of imitating playing the violin with his racket, a nod to his daughter in the stands who is learning to play the instrument, but he drew more boos from the fans. Djokovic will not mind being the pantomime villain if he can win a men's record-equalling eighth Wimbledon trophy, especially since his participation had been in doubt after he had to undergo knee surgery just five weeks ago. "I came to London eight days before the tournament started. I didn't know (if I would play). I was keeping everything open until the day of the draw," Djokovic said. "I played a couple of practice sets with top players and that proved to me I was in good enough state to not just be in Wimbledon, but to go deep into the tournament. "That kind of mentality is there and is ever present. Thanks to the team members for helping me." Musetti, who had dragged Djokovic to five sets in the latest ever finish at Roland Garros last month, was left to rue another defeat and another lost opportunity to pull off a major upset. "This was the seventh time that we were playing against each other and I've never faced a Nole like this," Musetti said. "I was really impressed... I think his tennis really fits well on this surface. Especially how he returns. I have to say today was really a joke at the end how he was returning. "Also, in important points he was playing, especially in the second set, like at the end, I had chances to break him, but he was serving really well. He deserved to win."

Novak Djokovic ease past Lorenzo Musetti to setup Wimbledon Final repeat against Alcaraz

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz shrugged off the loss of the first set to beat Tommy Paul on Tuesday and set up a repeat Wimbledon semi-final with Daniil Medvedev.

The Spanish world number three, seeking a fourth Grand Slam title, beat his 12th-seeded opponent 5-7, 6-4, 6-2, 6-2 under the No. 1 Court roof.

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Alcaraz was slow out of the blocks, broken twice by the in-form American in a 72-minute first set.

Paul raced into a two-game lead in the second set as Alcaraz again faltered on serve but the Spaniard got back on level terms and broke again to level the match.

Three breaks in the third set put the world number three&nbsp;in charge and he stepped up another gear in the fourth set, winning 92 percent of first-serve points and making just four unforced errors.

Alcaraz, seeking to become just the sixth man to capture the French Open and Wimbledon titles back to back, said it had been a tough start to his quarter-final against the recent champion at Queen's.

"If I'm struggling a little bit to find the solutions, if the opponent is playing great tennis and I don't get him in trouble, I believe at the end that I'll be able to come back and be able to find solutions," he said.

Looking forward to his match against Russian fifth-seed Medvedev, whom he beat last year on his way to winning his first Wimbledon title, he said: "Hopefully I'm going to get the same result.

"He just won against Jannik Sinner, the best player right now, so I know that he's in really good shape so I have to play my best, I have to believe in myself and try to keep going if I want to beat him."

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz shrugged off the loss of the first set to beat Tommy Paul on Tuesday and set up a repeat Wimbledon semi-final with Daniil Medvedev.

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz shrugged off the loss of the first set to beat Tommy Paul on Tuesday and set up a repeat Wimbledon semi-final with Daniil Medvedev. The Spanish world number three, seeking a fourth Grand Slam title, beat his 12th-seeded opponent 5-7, 6-4, 6-2, 6-2 under the No. 1 Court roof. Also Read: Wimbledon 2024: Daniil Medvedev stuns Australian Open winner Jannik Sinner to enter semifinal Alcaraz was slow out of the blocks, broken twice by the in-form American in a 72-minute first set. Paul raced into a two-game lead in the second set as Alcaraz again faltered on serve but the Spaniard got back on level terms and broke again to level the match. Three breaks in the third set put the world number three in charge and he stepped up another gear in the fourth set, winning 92 percent of first-serve points and making just four unforced errors. Alcaraz, seeking to become just the sixth man to capture the French Open and Wimbledon titles back to back, said it had been a tough start to his quarter-final against the recent champion at Queen's. "If I'm struggling a little bit to find the solutions, if the opponent is playing great tennis and I don't get him in trouble, I believe at the end that I'll be able to come back and be able to find solutions," he said. Looking forward to his match against Russian fifth-seed Medvedev, whom he beat last year on his way to winning his first Wimbledon title, he said: "Hopefully I'm going to get the same result. "He just won against Jannik Sinner, the best player right now, so I know that he's in really good shape so I have to play my best, I have to believe in myself and try to keep going if I want to beat him."

Wimbledon 2024: Defending-champion Carlos Alcaraz fights hard to earn semis berth

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz survived a worrying mid-match slump to reach the Wimbledon quarter-finals on Sunday, while injured American Madison Keys quit her last-16 clash in a flood&nbsp;of tears after being one game away from victory.

World number three Alcaraz defeated French 16th seed Ugo Humbert 6-3, 6-4, 1-6, 7-5 to make the last-eight of a Grand Slam for the ninth time in just 14 appearances.

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However, it was another uncomfortable afternoon for Alcaraz, who had needed five sets to see off Frances Tiafoe in the third round.

His erratic performance on Sunday saw him drop serve five times and commit an uncharacteristic 33 unforced errors.

The 21-year-old, bidding to become just the sixth man to win the French Open and Wimbledon back-to-back, eased through the first set under the Centre Court roof before crucially saving four break points in the fifth game of the second.

Humbert stormed back, breaking the champion three times in the third set as Alcaraz went spectacularly off the boil.

Alcaraz was twice unable to hold onto breaks in the fourth set and had to fend off three break points in the eighth game to stay level at 4-4.

Left-hander Humbert then lost his bearings to hand over a service break in the 11th game and Alcaraz took full advantage to quickly seal the tie.

<h2>- 'Fight to last ball' -</h2>

"I will be there, fighting until the last ball," said Alcaraz, who is chasing a fourth Grand Slam title.

Alcaraz will take on either American 12th seed Tommy Paul or 36-year-old compatriot Roberto Bautista Agut, a semi-finalist in 2019.

Over on Court One, US 12th seed Madison Keys was just one game away from a third quarter-final at the All England Club when she was forced to quit against Italy's Jasmine Paolini.

After dropping the first set to the seventh seeded Italian, Keys hit back to level the match at 3-6, 7-6 (8/6).

The 2017 US Open runner-up then raced into a 5-2 lead in the decider when she suffered a left leg injury in the eighth game.

Keys took a 10-minute medical time-out when she was leading 5-4.

The 29-year-old returned with a heavy strapping on her thigh and was distraught as she struggled to move and was immediately broken by Paolini.

Keys gamely tried to continue but, after failing to run for a Paolini drop shot, she retired with the score level at 5-5.

Paolini will face reigning US Open champion and second seed Coco Gauff or 19th seed Emma Navarro for a place in the semi-finals.

<h2>- 'It's sad' -</h2>

"I'm very sorry for her. It's sad," said French Open runner-up Paolini, who had never won a match at Wimbledon before this year.

Three years after her historic US Open title, Emma Raducanu is attempting to become Britain's first Wimbledon women's champion since 1977.

The British star, now ranked 135, finds herself with a potentially clear run to the semi-finals.

On Sunday, the 21-year-old faces Lulu Sun, the first New Zealand woman in the fourth round since 1959.

If she gets through that, a quarter-final date with either Paula Badosa or Donna Vekic awaits.

Raducanu's win over Maria Sakkari on Friday was just her second over a top 10 player -- both have come in the last two weeks.

"I'm just trying to cherish every moment I have here," said Raducanu.

On Saturday, Raducanu pulled out of the mixed doubles where she had been set to play alongside Andy Murray.

That decision meant Murray's All England Club career ended with a whimper.

Sun, a 123rd-ranked qualifier, had played and lost her only Grand Slam match before this Wimbledon.

The 23-year-old is guaranteed to earn at least $340,000 for her efforts -- more than she has made in her entire career.

Ben Shelton has made Wimbledon a family affair, reaching the fourth round 30 years after his father Bryan made the same stage.

"We're back, big dog," the 21-year-old American told his dad after seeing off Denis Shapovalov in the third round.

The 14th-ranked Shelton takes on world number one and Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner for a place in the quarter-finals.

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz survived a worrying mid-match slump to reach the Wimbledon quarter-finals on Sunday, while injured American Madison Keys quit her last-16 clash in a flood of tears after being one game away from victory.

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz survived a worrying mid-match slump to reach the Wimbledon quarter-finals on Sunday, while injured American Madison Keys quit her last-16 clash in a flood of tears after being one game away from victory. World number three Alcaraz defeated French 16th seed Ugo Humbert 6-3, 6-4, 1-6, 7-5 to make the last-eight of a Grand Slam for the ninth time in just 14 appearances. Also Read: Khyree Jackson, Minnesota Vikings' 2024 NFL Draft pick, dies in car crash However, it was another uncomfortable afternoon for Alcaraz, who had needed five sets to see off Frances Tiafoe in the third round. His erratic performance on Sunday saw him drop serve five times and commit an uncharacteristic 33 unforced errors. The 21-year-old, bidding to become just the sixth man to win the French Open and Wimbledon back-to-back, eased through the first set under the Centre Court roof before crucially saving four break points in the fifth game of the second. Humbert stormed back, breaking the champion three times in the third set as Alcaraz went spectacularly off the boil. Alcaraz was twice unable to hold onto breaks in the fourth set and had to fend off three break points in the eighth game to stay level at 4-4. Left-hander Humbert then lost his bearings to hand over a service break in the 11th game and Alcaraz took full advantage to quickly seal the tie. - 'Fight to last ball' - "I will be there, fighting until the last ball," said Alcaraz, who is chasing a fourth Grand Slam title. Alcaraz will take on either American 12th seed Tommy Paul or 36-year-old compatriot Roberto Bautista Agut, a semi-finalist in 2019. Over on Court One, US 12th seed Madison Keys was just one game away from a third quarter-final at the All England Club when she was forced to quit against Italy's Jasmine Paolini. After dropping the first set to the seventh seeded Italian, Keys hit back to level the match at 3-6, 7-6 (8/6). The 2017 US Open runner-up then raced into a 5-2 lead in the decider when she suffered a left leg injury in the eighth game. Keys took a 10-minute medical time-out when she was leading 5-4. The 29-year-old returned with a heavy strapping on her thigh and was distraught as she struggled to move and was immediately broken by Paolini. Keys gamely tried to continue but, after failing to run for a Paolini drop shot, she retired with the score level at 5-5. Paolini will face reigning US Open champion and second seed Coco Gauff or 19th seed Emma Navarro for a place in the semi-finals. - 'It's sad' - "I'm very sorry for her. It's sad," said French Open runner-up Paolini, who had never won a match at Wimbledon before this year. Three years after her historic US Open title, Emma Raducanu is attempting to become Britain's first Wimbledon women's champion since 1977. The British star, now ranked 135, finds herself with a potentially clear run to the semi-finals. On Sunday, the 21-year-old faces Lulu Sun, the first New Zealand woman in the fourth round since 1959. If she gets through that, a quarter-final date with either Paula Badosa or Donna Vekic awaits. Raducanu's win over Maria Sakkari on Friday was just her second over a top 10 player -- both have come in the last two weeks. "I'm just trying to cherish every moment I have here," said Raducanu. On Saturday, Raducanu pulled out of the mixed doubles where she had been set to play alongside Andy Murray. That decision meant Murray's All England Club career ended with a whimper. Sun, a 123rd-ranked qualifier, had played and lost her only Grand Slam match before this Wimbledon. The 23-year-old is guaranteed to earn at least $340,000 for her efforts -- more than she has made in her entire career. Ben Shelton has made Wimbledon a family affair, reaching the fourth round 30 years after his father Bryan made the same stage. "We're back, big dog," the 21-year-old American told his dad after seeing off Denis Shapovalov in the third round. The 14th-ranked Shelton takes on world number one and Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner for a place in the quarter-finals.

Wimbledon 2024: Carlos Alcaraz sweats to enter quarterfinals; Madison Keys quits one game from win with injury

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz survived a huge scare on Friday (July 5) after he overcame Frances Tiafoe in the third round of the Wimbledon Championships at the Centre Court. Playing in the third round of the men’s singles, Alcaraz beat Tiafoe 5-7, 6-2, 4-6, 7-6, 6-2 while overcoming a stern challenge.&nbsp;Having been on the cusp of exit in the fourth round Alcaraz made sure he got over the line and&nbsp;produced fine tennis in the fourth and fifth sets.

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Someone get <a href="https://twitter.com/carlosalcaraz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@carlosalcaraz</a> to a TV screen ASAP, he wants to watch the <a href="https://twitter.com/SEFutbol?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SEFutbol</a> match! 😅<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Wimbledon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Wimbledon</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/EURO2024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EURO2024</a> <a href="https://t.co/dlWHj7PXmt">pic.twitter.com/dlWHj7PXmt</a>
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<h2>Alcaraz survives scare</h2>

In a contest that lasted for more than three hours, the 21-year-old survived the scare where he dropped the opening 5-7 during a decisive serve. He bounced back in the second set against American to win it&nbsp;6-2 with a fine serve while consolidating on the break points. However, the Spaniard was again on the backfoot as Tiafoe was at his best with his first serve. He took&nbsp;the third set 6-4 which saw him on the brink of causing a big upset.

In a tight fourth set, Alcaraz and Tiafoe fought&nbsp;each other intensely before taking the match into a tiebreaker. In a one-sided tiebreaker, Alcaraz raced away with a 5-0 lead before dropping his first points when Tiafoe was seen on his knee. With no immediate comeback in the tiebreak, Alcaraz sealed his comeback and took the match into the fifth set.

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The fifth set was much of a one-sided affair with Alcaraz taking&nbsp;it&nbsp;6-2 to win the match and advance into the fourth round of the Wimbledon Championships.

Alcaraz could next face another American Brandon Nakashima if he gets the better of 16th seed Ugo Humbert of France.

Had the 21-year-old Spaniard lost in the third round of the Wimbledon championships, he would have joined Markéta Vondroušová. Vondroušová exited in the first round and became the first woman since Steffi Graf in 1994 to record the unwanted feat of a defending champion losing in the first round.

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz survived a huge scare on Friday (July 5) after he overcame Frances Tiafoe in the third round of the Wimbledon Championships at the Centre Court.

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz survived a huge scare on Friday (July 5) after he overcame Frances Tiafoe in the third round of the Wimbledon Championships at the Centre Court. Playing in the third round of the men’s singles, Alcaraz beat Tiafoe 5-7, 6-2, 4-6, 7-6, 6-2 while overcoming a stern challenge. Having been on the cusp of exit in the fourth round Alcaraz made sure he got over the line and produced fine tennis in the fourth and fifth sets. Someone get @carlosalcaraz to a TV screen ASAP, he wants to watch the @SEFutbol match! 😅#Wimbledon | @EURO2024 pic.twitter.com/dlWHj7PXmt — Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 5, 2024 × Alcaraz survives scare In a contest that lasted for more than three hours, the 21-year-old survived the scare where he dropped the opening 5-7 during a decisive serve. He bounced back in the second set against American to win it 6-2 with a fine serve while consolidating on the break points. However, the Spaniard was again on the backfoot as Tiafoe was at his best with his first serve. He took the third set 6-4 which saw him on the brink of causing a big upset. In a tight fourth set, Alcaraz and Tiafoe fought each other intensely before taking the match into a tiebreaker. In a one-sided tiebreaker, Alcaraz raced away with a 5-0 lead before dropping his first points when Tiafoe was seen on his knee. With no immediate comeback in the tiebreak, Alcaraz sealed his comeback and took the match into the fifth set. ALSO READ | How mother’s love made Rohit Sharma blush upon arrival in Mumbai – WATCH The fifth set was much of a one-sided affair with Alcaraz taking it 6-2 to win the match and advance into the fourth round of the Wimbledon Championships. Alcaraz could next face another American Brandon Nakashima if he gets the better of 16th seed Ugo Humbert of France. Had the 21-year-old Spaniard lost in the third round of the Wimbledon championships, he would have joined Markéta Vondroušová. Vondroušová exited in the first round and became the first woman since Steffi Graf in 1994 to record the unwanted feat of a defending champion losing in the first round.

Wimbledon 2024: Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz survives Frances Tiafoe scare to reach fourth round

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz recovered from an early stumble to sweep into the third round of Wimbledon on Wednesday, dispatching Australia's Aleksandar Vukic in straight sets.

The third seed dug deep to take the opening set against his 69th-ranked opponent before shifting impressively through the gears to win 7-6 (7/5), 6-2, 6-2.

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From 5-2 up in the first set, the Spaniard briefly lost his way to trail 5-6.&nbsp;

However, with the pressure on, Alcaraz broke back to force a tie-break and from then on it was one-way traffic.

The 21-year-old broke twice in the second set and repeated the feat in set three, pounding a total of 42 winners.

Alcaraz, who beat Novak Djokovic in last year's Wimbledon final, wrapped up victory in one hour, 48 minutes.

Vukic defeated then 17-year-old Alcaraz in qualifying at Roland Garros in 2020 but could not repeat the feat on the grass at the All England Club.

"I'm really happy about my performance today," said Alcaraz. "The first set was the key for me. He served for the set, then I played a really good tie-break.&nbsp;

"In the second set and third set, I played a really high level so I'm really happy about it."

The three-time Grand Slam champion is bidding to become just the sixth man&nbsp;after Rod Laver, Bjorn Borg, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic to win the French Open and Wimbledon titles back to back.

He next faces Frances Tiafoe, the American player he defeated in five sets in the semi-finals of the 2022 US Open on his way to his first Grand Slam triumph.

The Spaniard said he would "put on a show" against Tiafoe, ranked 29th.

"I'm going for him," he said. "We played a really good match in the US Open.&nbsp;

"I know he is a really talented player, a tough one, even tougher on grass with his style. Good volley, good slices. It is going to be a very difficult match for me.&nbsp;

"I'm ready to take that challenge."

<h2>Osaka out in second round</h2>

Naomi Osaka was sent crashing out of Wimbledon in the second round on Wednesday by America's Emma Navarro, who allowed the Japanese superstar just five games in a one-sided contest.

Osaka, playing her first Wimbledon since 2019, went down 6-4, 6-1 on Centre Court in less than an hour.

The two players were level-pegging at 3-3 in the first set before 17th-ranked Navarro broke to love and went on to take the first set.

Navarro pounced at the start of the second set, breaking twice to race into a 4-0 lead and broke again to seal the match.

Osaka's win over Diane Parry in the first round was her first at Wimbledon since 2018.

Five years on, the four-time Grand Slam champion, 26, is ranked at 113 having only returned to the tour in January after giving birth to daughter Shai last year.

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz recovered from an early stumble to sweep into the third round of Wimbledon on Wednesday, dispatching Australia's Aleksandar Vukic in straight sets.

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz recovered from an early stumble to sweep into the third round of Wimbledon on Wednesday, dispatching Australia's Aleksandar Vukic in straight sets. The third seed dug deep to take the opening set against his 69th-ranked opponent before shifting impressively through the gears to win 7-6 (7/5), 6-2, 6-2. Also Read: LeBron James to stay with Lakers in two-year, $104 million deal: Report From 5-2 up in the first set, the Spaniard briefly lost his way to trail 5-6. However, with the pressure on, Alcaraz broke back to force a tie-break and from then on it was one-way traffic. The 21-year-old broke twice in the second set and repeated the feat in set three, pounding a total of 42 winners. Alcaraz, who beat Novak Djokovic in last year's Wimbledon final, wrapped up victory in one hour, 48 minutes. Vukic defeated then 17-year-old Alcaraz in qualifying at Roland Garros in 2020 but could not repeat the feat on the grass at the All England Club. "I'm really happy about my performance today," said Alcaraz. "The first set was the key for me. He served for the set, then I played a really good tie-break. "In the second set and third set, I played a really high level so I'm really happy about it." The three-time Grand Slam champion is bidding to become just the sixth man after Rod Laver, Bjorn Borg, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic to win the French Open and Wimbledon titles back to back. He next faces Frances Tiafoe, the American player he defeated in five sets in the semi-finals of the 2022 US Open on his way to his first Grand Slam triumph. The Spaniard said he would "put on a show" against Tiafoe, ranked 29th. "I'm going for him," he said. "We played a really good match in the US Open. "I know he is a really talented player, a tough one, even tougher on grass with his style. Good volley, good slices. It is going to be a very difficult match for me. "I'm ready to take that challenge." Osaka out in second round Naomi Osaka was sent crashing out of Wimbledon in the second round on Wednesday by America's Emma Navarro, who allowed the Japanese superstar just five games in a one-sided contest. Osaka, playing her first Wimbledon since 2019, went down 6-4, 6-1 on Centre Court in less than an hour. The two players were level-pegging at 3-3 in the first set before 17th-ranked Navarro broke to love and went on to take the first set. Navarro pounced at the start of the second set, breaking twice to race into a 4-0 lead and broke again to seal the match. Osaka's win over Diane Parry in the first round was her first at Wimbledon since 2018. Five years on, the four-time Grand Slam champion, 26, is ranked at 113 having only returned to the tour in January after giving birth to daughter Shai last year.

Wimbledon 2024: Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz enters third round; Naomi Osaka crashes out

Carlos Alcaraz defeated 269th-ranked qualifier Mark Lajal at the start of his Wimbledon title defence on Monday as Andy Murray decided whether or not to call a halt to his All England Club singles career.

As action got under way, Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka was heading home after withdrawing from the tournament with a shoulder injury.

Alcaraz, still only 21, is chasing his fourth Grand Slam title and hopes to become just the sixth man after Rod Laver, Bjorn Borg, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic to win the French Open and Wimbledon back-to-back.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-1/news-austrian-gp-lando-norris-says-he-will-lose-respect-for-max-verstappen-without-apology-736786">Austrian GP: Lando Norris says he will lose respect for Max Verstappen without apology</a>

Opening the Centre Court programme, the Spanish star recovered from a break down in each of the first two sets to see off the dreadlocked Lajal 7-6 (7/3), 7-5, 6-2.

"He played a really good match, he obviously surprised me a little bit because I didn't have the chance to see him play a lot," said Alcaraz.

This time last year, Lajal was losing a first-round match at a second-tier Challenger event in the United States and earning a paltry $780 -- on Monday he banked $75,000.

Two-time Wimbledon semi-finalist Sabalenka, ranked third in the world, is one of eight players to have pulled out since the draw was made.

She had admitted she was not 100 per cent fit after suffering a shoulder injury at the Berlin Open and has been replaced by Russian lucky loser Erika Andreeva.

"Heartbroken to have to tell you all that I won't be able to play The Championships this year," wrote 26-year-old Sabalenka on X.

Russian fifth seed Daniil Medvedev reached the second round and admitted he was happy not to be playing on the All England Club's famed Centre Court.

Medvedev, a semi-finalist last year, hit 16 aces in his 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 win over Aleksandar Kovacevic of the United States.

"I've still never lost on Court One so hopefully I can play a lot more matches on this court," said Medvedev.

"Last year I said it was unfortunate I had to go to Centre Court for the semis and I lost."

Eighth seed Casper Ruud, who has never been past the second round, saw off Alex Bolt of Australia in straight sets and revealed he had been laid low by a parasite since reaching the French Open semi-finals.

"I was mostly in bed for 10, 11 days, which was not what I was kind of hoping for," said the Norwegian.

Three-time Grand Slam title winner Stan Wawrinka won his Wimbledon opener at the age of 39, beating British wild card Charles Broom 6-3, 7-5, 6-4.

"I think there is enough reason to keep playing. I don't want to go home," said Wawrinka, who made his debut at Wimbledon in 2005.

World number one Jannik Sinner, a semi-finalist in 2023, starts against Yannick Hanfmann,&nbsp;the German world number 110.

The 22-year-old Sinner won a maiden Slam at the Australian Open and then deposed Djokovic as world number one, becoming the first Italian man to reach such heights.

Sinner arrives in London having captured his first grass-court title in Halle.

<h2>- 'Feel that buzz' -</h2>

Murray, champion in 2013 and 2016, will reveal later Monday if he will play singles at his farewell Wimbledon.

The former world number one underwent surgery to remove a cyst on his spine last week and admitted he still has not fully recovered feeling in his leg.

Murray, whose 2013 triumph ended Britain's 77-year wait for a men's champion at Wimbledon, is due to face Czech world number 39 Tomas Machac on Tuesday.

If he cannot make that date, he still hopes to play doubles with brother Jamie before bringing the curtain down on his Wimbledon career, which began 19 years ago.

"I'm hoping maybe for a bit of closure. I just want the opportunity to play one more time out there hopefully on Centre Court and feel that buzz," said 37-year-old Murray.

Elsewhere on opening day, women's second seed and US Open champion Coco Gauff takes on American compatriot Caroline Dolehide.&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Need luck' -</h2>

Four-time major winner Naomi Osaka tackles Diane Parry of France in her first appearance at Wimbledon since 2019.

Osaka, who only returned to the tour at the start of the season after maternity leave, is ranked at 113 and required a wild card to play at Wimbledon.

At the recent French Open, she gave world number one Iga Swiatek a mighty scare, holding a match point in their second-round clash before the Pole prevailed.

Carlos Alcaraz defeated 269th-ranked qualifier Mark Lajal at the start of his Wimbledon title defence on Monday as Andy Murray decided whether or not to call a halt to his All England Club singles career.

Carlos Alcaraz defeated 269th-ranked qualifier Mark Lajal at the start of his Wimbledon title defence on Monday as Andy Murray decided whether or not to call a halt to his All England Club singles career. As action got under way, Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka was heading home after withdrawing from the tournament with a shoulder injury. Alcaraz, still only 21, is chasing his fourth Grand Slam title and hopes to become just the sixth man after Rod Laver, Bjorn Borg, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic to win the French Open and Wimbledon back-to-back. Also Read: Austrian GP: Lando Norris says he will lose respect for Max Verstappen without apology Opening the Centre Court programme, the Spanish star recovered from a break down in each of the first two sets to see off the dreadlocked Lajal 7-6 (7/3), 7-5, 6-2. "He played a really good match, he obviously surprised me a little bit because I didn't have the chance to see him play a lot," said Alcaraz. This time last year, Lajal was losing a first-round match at a second-tier Challenger event in the United States and earning a paltry $780 -- on Monday he banked $75,000. Two-time Wimbledon semi-finalist Sabalenka, ranked third in the world, is one of eight players to have pulled out since the draw was made. She had admitted she was not 100 per cent fit after suffering a shoulder injury at the Berlin Open and has been replaced by Russian lucky loser Erika Andreeva. "Heartbroken to have to tell you all that I won't be able to play The Championships this year," wrote 26-year-old Sabalenka on X. Russian fifth seed Daniil Medvedev reached the second round and admitted he was happy not to be playing on the All England Club's famed Centre Court. Medvedev, a semi-finalist last year, hit 16 aces in his 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 win over Aleksandar Kovacevic of the United States. "I've still never lost on Court One so hopefully I can play a lot more matches on this court," said Medvedev. "Last year I said it was unfortunate I had to go to Centre Court for the semis and I lost." Eighth seed Casper Ruud, who has never been past the second round, saw off Alex Bolt of Australia in straight sets and revealed he had been laid low by a parasite since reaching the French Open semi-finals. "I was mostly in bed for 10, 11 days, which was not what I was kind of hoping for," said the Norwegian. Three-time Grand Slam title winner Stan Wawrinka won his Wimbledon opener at the age of 39, beating British wild card Charles Broom 6-3, 7-5, 6-4. "I think there is enough reason to keep playing. I don't want to go home," said Wawrinka, who made his debut at Wimbledon in 2005. World number one Jannik Sinner, a semi-finalist in 2023, starts against Yannick Hanfmann, the German world number 110. The 22-year-old Sinner won a maiden Slam at the Australian Open and then deposed Djokovic as world number one, becoming the first Italian man to reach such heights. Sinner arrives in London having captured his first grass-court title in Halle. - 'Feel that buzz' - Murray, champion in 2013 and 2016, will reveal later Monday if he will play singles at his farewell Wimbledon. The former world number one underwent surgery to remove a cyst on his spine last week and admitted he still has not fully recovered feeling in his leg. Murray, whose 2013 triumph ended Britain's 77-year wait for a men's champion at Wimbledon, is due to face Czech world number 39 Tomas Machac on Tuesday. If he cannot make that date, he still hopes to play doubles with brother Jamie before bringing the curtain down on his Wimbledon career, which began 19 years ago. "I'm hoping maybe for a bit of closure. I just want the opportunity to play one more time out there hopefully on Centre Court and feel that buzz," said 37-year-old Murray. Elsewhere on opening day, women's second seed and US Open champion Coco Gauff takes on American compatriot Caroline Dolehide. - 'Need luck' - Four-time major winner Naomi Osaka tackles Diane Parry of France in her first appearance at Wimbledon since 2019. Osaka, who only returned to the tour at the start of the season after maternity leave, is ranked at 113 and required a wild card to play at Wimbledon. At the recent French Open, she gave world number one Iga Swiatek a mighty scare, holding a match point in their second-round clash before the Pole prevailed.

Wimbledon 2024: Carlos Alcaraz begins title defence with win; Aryna Sabalenka withdraws with injury

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