Alex de Minuar beat Daniil Medvedev in the fourth-round match on the French Open 2024 edition on Monday (June 3). Medvedev made a promising start to the clash, however, lost the plot&nbsp;soon to allow Australia's de Minuar a comeback. Eventually, the Aussie youngster won 4-6, 6-2, 6-1, 6-3 to stage a remarkable comeback and sprint ahead in the Roland Garros. With this, De Minuar -- who never went past the second round at the tournament before this year -- will now gear up for a riveting quarterfinal match, having improved his game significantly on clay.&nbsp;

Talking about the contest, it started on expected note as many had their money on Russian star Medvedev. The fifth-seed, and a six-time Grand Slam finalist, won the opening set 6-4. He looked in good touch. It seemed that former US Open champion would make it to the next round without dropping much sweat. However, his form dipped in the following sets; allowing de Minaur to make a comeback.

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The 11th-ranked Australian made a fresh start in the second set and was quick to close it, winning 6-2.&nbsp;The script remained the same in the third set with de Minaur dominating proceedings with his serves and making Medvedev do all the hardyards for each and every point. As a result, the Russian was seen covering a lot of distance on the court and looked&nbsp;clueless. The latter won the third set 6-1. While Medvedev was determined to push the game to the final set and started with a lead in the penultimate one, he soon conceded the momentum to lose 3-6 and bow out.

With this, Medvedev's disappointing run at the Roland Garros continues. For de Minaur, he will now lock horns with either Alexander Zverev or Holger Rune in his second Slam quarterfinal and first since the 2020 US Open.

Alex de Minuar beat Daniil Medvedev in the fourth-round match on the French Open 2024 edition on Monday (June 3). Medvedev made a promising start to the clash, however, lost the plot soon to allow Australia's de Minuar a comeback.

Alex de Minuar beat Daniil Medvedev in the fourth-round match on the French Open 2024 edition on Monday (June 3). Medvedev made a promising start to the clash, however, lost the plot soon to allow Australia's de Minuar a comeback. Eventually, the Aussie youngster won 4-6, 6-2, 6-1, 6-3 to stage a remarkable comeback and sprint ahead in the Roland Garros. With this, De Minuar -- who never went past the second round at the tournament before this year -- will now gear up for a riveting quarterfinal match, having improved his game significantly on clay. Talking about the contest, it started on expected note as many had their money on Russian star Medvedev. The fifth-seed, and a six-time Grand Slam finalist, won the opening set 6-4. He looked in good touch. It seemed that former US Open champion would make it to the next round without dropping much sweat. However, his form dipped in the following sets; allowing de Minaur to make a comeback. Also read: Jannik Sinner, Iga Swiatek race to French Open quarters as scheduling comes under scrutiny The 11th-ranked Australian made a fresh start in the second set and was quick to close it, winning 6-2. The script remained the same in the third set with de Minaur dominating proceedings with his serves and making Medvedev do all the hardyards for each and every point. As a result, the Russian was seen covering a lot of distance on the court and looked clueless. The latter won the third set 6-1. While Medvedev was determined to push the game to the final set and started with a lead in the penultimate one, he soon conceded the momentum to lose 3-6 and bow out. With this, Medvedev's disappointing run at the Roland Garros continues. For de Minaur, he will now lock horns with either Alexander Zverev or Holger Rune in his second Slam quarterfinal and first since the 2020 US Open.

French Open: Alex de Minuar sends Daniil Medvedev packing with impressive win in fourth round

Third seed Daniil Medvedev retired injured from his Madrid Open quarter-final clash with Jiri Lehecka on Thursday, a day after Jannik Sinner was forced to withdraw from the clay-court tournament.

Earlier women's world number one Iga Swiatek cruised through to a second consecutive Madrid Open final with a 6-1, 6-3 victory over Madison Keys.

Russia's Medvedev needed a medical time-out early in the last eight match and struggled through to the end of the first set with an apparent upper thigh problem, losing it 6-4 before retiring.

Czech Lehecka progressed to his first Masters 1000 semi-final, where he will face Felix Auger Aliassime, who received a walkover after top seed Sinner withdrew Wednesday with a hip problem.

"It's never easy in a match like this," said Lehecka. "If I were to choose the way how to win this match, it wouldn't be like that.

"It's never easy to see your opponent struggling, but at that moment, you just need to focus on yourself, trying to get the maximum level out of yourself."

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Medvedev took an off-court medical timeout after the fifth game, all holds of serve, and when he returned clearly had problems moving freely around the court.

The world number four saved two break points to hold for a 4-3 lead as Lehecka floundered, laughing to himself at his fortune in winning the seventh game despite playing through obvious pain.

The Czech, who knocked-out Rafael Nadal on Wednesday, settled down and capitalised on Medvedev's woes to break in the ninth game for a 5-4 lead, serving it out as his opponent went long.

Medvedev won just four of the last 16 points before deciding to call it a night, with fans left disappointed. The other men's quarter-final set for Thursday had been cancelled after Sinner's withdrawal.

The 28-year-old Medvedev is the defending champion at the Italian Open, which starts next week, while the French Open, the season's second Grand Slam event, gets underway in just over three weeks' time.

Taylor Fritz will face Andrey Rublev in the other semi-final on Friday, after the Russian ousted home favourite Carlos Alcaraz on Wednesday.

<h2>- Superb Swiatek -</h2>

Dominant on clay, Swiatek barely put a foot wrong against Keys, making just eight unforced errors in the match to leave the 29-year-old American with virtually no chance.

"I'm really happy that I had such a solid game today," Swiatek said on court after reaching her 11th WTA 1000 final.

"Madison is an amazing player with a really fast game and a big serve, so I wanted to focus on myself and I'm happy I was focussed."

The top seed, triumphant at Doha and Indian Wells, started in unforgiving form.

Swiatek broke to love in the second game and dropped just three of the first 17 points.

Keys, seeded 18th, battled back to hold from 0-30 down for a 3-1 deficit, fighting to stay in the set.

However last year's Madrid runner-up broke again for a 5-1 lead and served it out to wrap up the first set in 31 minutes.

The clinical Swiatek broke for a 2-1 lead in the second set with a superb passing shot and never relinquished her advantage, even though Keys was more competitive.

The 22-year-old four-time Grand Slam winner broke once more to seal her victory when world number 20 Keys went long.

Later reigning champion and second seed Aryna Sabalenka faces Elena Rybakina in the second semi-final, ahead of Saturday's showdown with Swiatek.

Third seed Daniil Medvedev retired injured from his Madrid Open quarter-final clash with Jiri Lehecka on Thursday, a day after Jannik Sinner was forced to withdraw from the clay-court tournament.

Third seed Daniil Medvedev retired injured from his Madrid Open quarter-final clash with Jiri Lehecka on Thursday, a day after Jannik Sinner was forced to withdraw from the clay-court tournament. Earlier women's world number one Iga Swiatek cruised through to a second consecutive Madrid Open final with a 6-1, 6-3 victory over Madison Keys. Russia's Medvedev needed a medical time-out early in the last eight match and struggled through to the end of the first set with an apparent upper thigh problem, losing it 6-4 before retiring. Czech Lehecka progressed to his first Masters 1000 semi-final, where he will face Felix Auger Aliassime, who received a walkover after top seed Sinner withdrew Wednesday with a hip problem. "It's never easy in a match like this," said Lehecka. "If I were to choose the way how to win this match, it wouldn't be like that. "It's never easy to see your opponent struggling, but at that moment, you just need to focus on yourself, trying to get the maximum level out of yourself." ALSO READ: USA’s Kelley O'Hara - two-time women’s World Cup winner and Olympic gold medalist, announces retirement Medvedev took an off-court medical timeout after the fifth game, all holds of serve, and when he returned clearly had problems moving freely around the court. The world number four saved two break points to hold for a 4-3 lead as Lehecka floundered, laughing to himself at his fortune in winning the seventh game despite playing through obvious pain. The Czech, who knocked-out Rafael Nadal on Wednesday, settled down and capitalised on Medvedev's woes to break in the ninth game for a 5-4 lead, serving it out as his opponent went long. Medvedev won just four of the last 16 points before deciding to call it a night, with fans left disappointed. The other men's quarter-final set for Thursday had been cancelled after Sinner's withdrawal. The 28-year-old Medvedev is the defending champion at the Italian Open, which starts next week, while the French Open, the season's second Grand Slam event, gets underway in just over three weeks' time. Taylor Fritz will face Andrey Rublev in the other semi-final on Friday, after the Russian ousted home favourite Carlos Alcaraz on Wednesday. - Superb Swiatek - Dominant on clay, Swiatek barely put a foot wrong against Keys, making just eight unforced errors in the match to leave the 29-year-old American with virtually no chance. "I'm really happy that I had such a solid game today," Swiatek said on court after reaching her 11th WTA 1000 final. "Madison is an amazing player with a really fast game and a big serve, so I wanted to focus on myself and I'm happy I was focussed." The top seed, triumphant at Doha and Indian Wells, started in unforgiving form. Swiatek broke to love in the second game and dropped just three of the first 17 points. Keys, seeded 18th, battled back to hold from 0-30 down for a 3-1 deficit, fighting to stay in the set. However last year's Madrid runner-up broke again for a 5-1 lead and served it out to wrap up the first set in 31 minutes. The clinical Swiatek broke for a 2-1 lead in the second set with a superb passing shot and never relinquished her advantage, even though Keys was more competitive. The 22-year-old four-time Grand Slam winner broke once more to seal her victory when world number 20 Keys went long. Later reigning champion and second seed Aryna Sabalenka faces Elena Rybakina in the second semi-final, ahead of Saturday's showdown with Swiatek.

Madrid Open: Medvedev retires injured as top seed Iga Swiatek reaches consecutive final

Daniil Medvedev was again drawn into a heated exchange with an umpire before crashing out of the Monte Carlo Masters in a 6-3 7-5 defeat by Karen Khachanov in the last 16 on Thursday, while Novak Djokovic and Jannik Sinner advanced to the quarter-finals.

Fourth seed Medvedev, who had reached at least the quarter-finals in his last two appearances at Monte Carlo, never truly got going against fellow-Russian Khachanov.

After a topsy-turvy start with four breaks in the first four games, Medvedev double-faulted to gift Khachanov the lead at 5-3, with the world number 17 holding serve comfortably to clinch the opening set.

Medvedev shook off some of his early rustiness in the second and had set point when he was 5-4 up, but squandered that opportunity and was unable to break Khachanov's serve.

Khachanov's hold under pressure proved the final straw for Medvedev, who faded quickly and hurled his racket against the backboard after an erroneous call from a line judge.

"Open your freaking eyes," Medvedev, who also argued with the chair umpire after his win over Gael Monfils on Wednesday, shouted at the umpire and supervisor, before being issued a point penalty.

Khachanov reached the last eight in Monte Carlo for the first time.

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"Mentally, even though I've lost a few hard matches to him on hard courts, I know he doesn't like to play on clay and that gives me some extra confidence," Khachanov said in his on-court interview.

"Sometimes I know Daniil can lose his mind. Sometimes he uses it as a tool, but it can get out of control sometimes. I tried not to look at him or focus on him, and just serve it out."

World number one Djokovic looked in trouble early on, but rallied to win 7-5 6-3 against Lorenzo Musetti, the player who knocked the Serb out at this stage in last year's tournament.

The Italian broke in the opening game before Djokovic bounced back with two breaks to take the first set. The pair traded breaks twice in the second set, but Djokovic broke a third time to make it 5-3 and held serve to advance.

"He was the better player for those first seven games, played some great tennis," Djokovic said. "But this is clay and obviously things can turn around very quickly and a break of serve is not as big advantage on this surface compared to the other surfaces."

Djokovic, twice Monte Carlo champion, has not advanced beyond the quarter-final stage since he won in 2015, and will face 11th seed Alex de Minaur who beat Alexei Popyrin 6-3 6-4 in an all-Australian clash.

Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner had little trouble in defeating Jan-Lennard Struff 6-4 6-2, despite the German breaking serve in the opening set.

"I broke him quite early and then he broke me back," Sinner said. "I knew it was going to be really tough but I guess I returned really well, especially on second serves. I can be very happy."

Sinner will next face seventh seed Holger Rune in a rematch of last-year's semi-final, which was won by the Dane.

Rune finished off his rain-delayed clash against Sumit Nagal with a 6-3 3-6 6-2 win, before returning to court to see off Grigor Dimitrov 7-6(9) 3-6 7-6(2) in a three-and-a-half-hour thriller.

"It was a great match. It was tough physically. I had a match earlier today which was two sets, so I played five sets today actually, which is pretty brutal," Rune said.

Twice Monte Carlo champion Stefanos Tsitsipas defied a spirited comeback from fifth seed Alexander Zverev to win 7-5 7-6(3). The Greek 12th seed took a 5-0 lead in the second set before the German made an impressive recovery.

Tsitsipas, winner in 2021 and 2022, held his nerve in the tiebreak to reach the quarter-finals where he will meet Khachanov.

Norwegian eighth seed Casper Ruud also reached the last eight after beating Hubert Hurkacz 6-4 6-2 and will meet 14th seed Ugo Humbert.

Daniil Medvedev was again drawn into a heated exchange with an umpire before crashing out of the Monte Carlo Masters in a 6-3 7-5 defeat by Karen Khachanov in the last 16 on Thursday, while Novak Djokovic and Jannik Sinner advanced to the quarter-finals.

Daniil Medvedev was again drawn into a heated exchange with an umpire before crashing out of the Monte Carlo Masters in a 6-3 7-5 defeat by Karen Khachanov in the last 16 on Thursday, while Novak Djokovic and Jannik Sinner advanced to the quarter-finals. Fourth seed Medvedev, who had reached at least the quarter-finals in his last two appearances at Monte Carlo, never truly got going against fellow-Russian Khachanov. After a topsy-turvy start with four breaks in the first four games, Medvedev double-faulted to gift Khachanov the lead at 5-3, with the world number 17 holding serve comfortably to clinch the opening set. Medvedev shook off some of his early rustiness in the second and had set point when he was 5-4 up, but squandered that opportunity and was unable to break Khachanov's serve. Khachanov's hold under pressure proved the final straw for Medvedev, who faded quickly and hurled his racket against the backboard after an erroneous call from a line judge. "Open your freaking eyes," Medvedev, who also argued with the chair umpire after his win over Gael Monfils on Wednesday, shouted at the umpire and supervisor, before being issued a point penalty. Khachanov reached the last eight in Monte Carlo for the first time. ALSO READ: Paris Olympics: Nike’s campaign unveiling athletes' apparel brings Sha’Carri Richardson into limelight "Mentally, even though I've lost a few hard matches to him on hard courts, I know he doesn't like to play on clay and that gives me some extra confidence," Khachanov said in his on-court interview. "Sometimes I know Daniil can lose his mind. Sometimes he uses it as a tool, but it can get out of control sometimes. I tried not to look at him or focus on him, and just serve it out." World number one Djokovic looked in trouble early on, but rallied to win 7-5 6-3 against Lorenzo Musetti, the player who knocked the Serb out at this stage in last year's tournament. The Italian broke in the opening game before Djokovic bounced back with two breaks to take the first set. The pair traded breaks twice in the second set, but Djokovic broke a third time to make it 5-3 and held serve to advance. "He was the better player for those first seven games, played some great tennis," Djokovic said. "But this is clay and obviously things can turn around very quickly and a break of serve is not as big advantage on this surface compared to the other surfaces." Djokovic, twice Monte Carlo champion, has not advanced beyond the quarter-final stage since he won in 2015, and will face 11th seed Alex de Minaur who beat Alexei Popyrin 6-3 6-4 in an all-Australian clash. Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner had little trouble in defeating Jan-Lennard Struff 6-4 6-2, despite the German breaking serve in the opening set. "I broke him quite early and then he broke me back," Sinner said. "I knew it was going to be really tough but I guess I returned really well, especially on second serves. I can be very happy." Sinner will next face seventh seed Holger Rune in a rematch of last-year's semi-final, which was won by the Dane. Rune finished off his rain-delayed clash against Sumit Nagal with a 6-3 3-6 6-2 win, before returning to court to see off Grigor Dimitrov 7-6(9) 3-6 7-6(2) in a three-and-a-half-hour thriller. "It was a great match. It was tough physically. I had a match earlier today which was two sets, so I played five sets today actually, which is pretty brutal," Rune said. Twice Monte Carlo champion Stefanos Tsitsipas defied a spirited comeback from fifth seed Alexander Zverev to win 7-5 7-6(3). The Greek 12th seed took a 5-0 lead in the second set before the German made an impressive recovery. Tsitsipas, winner in 2021 and 2022, held his nerve in the tiebreak to reach the quarter-finals where he will meet Khachanov. Norwegian eighth seed Casper Ruud also reached the last eight after beating Hubert Hurkacz 6-4 6-2 and will meet 14th seed Ugo Humbert.

Monte Carlo Masters: Daniil Medvedev crashes out in pre-quarters; Sinner, Djokovic advance

Jannik Sinner rolled past Tomas Machac 6-4 6-2 on Wednesday to reach the semi-finals of the Miami Open, where he will face Russian Daniil Medvedev in a tantalising rematch of the Australian Open final. Third seed Medvedev booked his place in the last four with a 6-2 7-6(7) win over Nicolas Jarry. Sinner had to fight back from two sets down at Melbourne Park in January to beat Medvedev and capture his first Grand Slam title.

"It's going to be a tactical match, potentially," second seed Sinner told reporters. "I have to be ready if he starts off in a similar way as in Australia. "I have to be ready and trying to understand it before. Then maybe he's going to change a couple of things. It's going to be an interesting test for me."

The opening set of the first quarter-final played in humid conditions hinged on a Machac service game at 3-3 where the unseeded Czech's forehand missed its target on break point to give Sinner a 4-3 lead. The Italian wrapped up the set with a love hold when Machac was unable to put a second serve back in play.

In the second set, Machac's forehand sailed long to give Sinner the break and a 2-1 lead. Sinner broke again with a backhand winner for 4-1 and closed out the contest with a serve out wide.

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"I didn't exactly know what to expect today," Sinner said after his 20th win of the year. "The first games I was looking a little bit what kind of tactics could work or not ... Today I played good, especially in the important moments of the match."

Sinner has lost only one match this year, falling in the semi-finals of Indian Wells to eventual champion Carlos Alcaraz. Defending Miami champion Medvedev will represent another tricky test as the Russian has been in imperious form in the tournament, reaching the semis without dropping a set.

He was pushed hard in the second set of his encounter with Chilean Jarry but came through in the tiebreak, clinching on his third match point. "The first set I feel like I was playing a good level, nothing like extra, and it was enough to win," Medvedev said. "Tough rallies and tough points. He served better and it was a matter of a few points on the tiebreak, like it is sometimes in&nbsp;tennis... Happy that I managed to win."

Medvedev looked ahead to a great challenge against Sinner. "He's playing better and better. He's confident. Even some matches I watch on TV and he's in a little trouble he manages to find solutions and that's what champions do," Medvedev added.

Jannik Sinner rolled past Tomas Machac 6-4 6-2 on Wednesday to reach the semi-finals of the Miami Open, where he will face Russian Daniil Medvedev in a tantalising rematch of the Australian Open final.

Jannik Sinner rolled past Tomas Machac 6-4 6-2 on Wednesday to reach the semi-finals of the Miami Open, where he will face Russian Daniil Medvedev in a tantalising rematch of the Australian Open final. Third seed Medvedev booked his place in the last four with a 6-2 7-6(7) win over Nicolas Jarry. Sinner had to fight back from two sets down at Melbourne Park in January to beat Medvedev and capture his first Grand Slam title. "It's going to be a tactical match, potentially," second seed Sinner told reporters. "I have to be ready if he starts off in a similar way as in Australia. "I have to be ready and trying to understand it before. Then maybe he's going to change a couple of things. It's going to be an interesting test for me." The opening set of the first quarter-final played in humid conditions hinged on a Machac service game at 3-3 where the unseeded Czech's forehand missed its target on break point to give Sinner a 4-3 lead. The Italian wrapped up the set with a love hold when Machac was unable to put a second serve back in play. In the second set, Machac's forehand sailed long to give Sinner the break and a 2-1 lead. Sinner broke again with a backhand winner for 4-1 and closed out the contest with a serve out wide. Also read: Novak Djokovic parts ways with coach Goran Ivanisevic amid tough start to 2024 season "I didn't exactly know what to expect today," Sinner said after his 20th win of the year. "The first games I was looking a little bit what kind of tactics could work or not ... Today I played good, especially in the important moments of the match." Sinner has lost only one match this year, falling in the semi-finals of Indian Wells to eventual champion Carlos Alcaraz. Defending Miami champion Medvedev will represent another tricky test as the Russian has been in imperious form in the tournament, reaching the semis without dropping a set. He was pushed hard in the second set of his encounter with Chilean Jarry but came through in the tiebreak, clinching on his third match point. "The first set I feel like I was playing a good level, nothing like extra, and it was enough to win," Medvedev said. "Tough rallies and tough points. He served better and it was a matter of a few points on the tiebreak, like it is sometimes in tennis... Happy that I managed to win." Medvedev looked ahead to a great challenge against Sinner. "He's playing better and better. He's confident. Even some matches I watch on TV and he's in a little trouble he manages to find solutions and that's what champions do," Medvedev added.

Tennis: Daniil Medvedev, Jannik Sinner set for Miami Open semifinal face-off

Indian Wells champion Carlos Alcaraz kept his hopes for a Sunshine Double alive with a 6-3 6-3 win over Lorenzo Musetti to reach the Miami Open quarter-finals for the third straight year on Tuesday. The Spaniard needed less than 90 minutes to dispatch the 23rd seed from Italy, pounding forehands and winning 18 of 22 points when he charged to the net.

Alcaraz broke serve to start the match and again to grab the drama-free first set against his overmatched opponent. Musetti would finally secure his first break of the match to get back on serve trailing 4-3 in the second set when a suddenly error-prone Alcaraz misfired with a backhand.

The momentum would be short-lived, however, with the tournament's 2022 champion breaking back with ease in the next game and ending the affair when Musetti's shot landed in the net on match point. Musetti's best moment came in the second set when he hit a front facing tweener lob over Alcaraz's head and ended the point with a volley to gasps from the fans at Hard Rock Stadium.

"Without a doubt, this is the best I've been feeling," Alcaraz, who had struggled with an ankle injury earlier in the season, said after winning his ninth consecutive match. "I'm feeling great on the court, I'm moving great with no injuries because I don't think about the ankle anymore on the court."

Alcaraz will next face 11th seed Grigor Dimitrov after the Bulgarian's career renaissance continued with a gritty 3-6 6-3 7-6(3) win over Poland's Hubert Hurkacz.

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<h2>MEDVEDEV SURGES</h2>

Daniil Medvedev took another step towards retaining a title for the first time in his career as the Russian third seed beat Germany's Dominik Koepfer 7-6(5) 6-0 to make the quarter-finals. Medvedev overcame a shaky start and converted four break points while dropping serve just once to secure a spot in the last eight in Miami where he has yet to drop a set.

Koepfer was the early aggressor, using a pair of holds at love to build a 4-3 lead in the first set, but Medvedev forced a tiebreak in which he lost the opening four points before finding his way. With a frustrated Koepfer suddenly losing control of his forehand, Medvedev enjoyed much smoother passage through the second set where he broke twice to build a commanding 4-0 lead before closing out the match with a break to love.

"Sometimes it happens when you lose the first set the way he lost ... it brings your (opponent's) energy down and I knew that I had to use it (to my advantage) in the beginning of the second set that's where it was the most important," Medvedev said after collecting his 350th career win.

The Russian will face Chile's Nicolas Jarry, the 22nd seed, in the last eight, after he beat seventh seed Casper Ruud of Norway 7-6(3) 6-3. In other early action, unseeded Czech Tomas Machac beat Italy's Matteo Arnaldi 6-3 6-3 to reach his first Masters 1000 quarter-final.

Machac faces a tough task against second seed Jannik Sinner, who overcame a first set deficit before ultimately coasting to a 6-4 6-3 victory to reach the quarters. Fabian Marozsan, who took out sixth seed Holger Rune earlier in the tournament, continued his stunning run by defeating ninth seed Alex de Minaur 6-4 0-6 6-1.

The unseeded Hungarian, who stretched his win-loss record against top-10 opponents to 4-1, could face a daunting task in the last eight against an in-form Alexander Zverev. The fourth-seeded German set up the clash after outclassing Russian Karen Khachanov 6-1 6-4 in a late night contest.

Indian Wells champion Carlos Alcaraz kept his hopes for a Sunshine Double alive with a 6-3 6-3 win over Lorenzo Musetti to reach the Miami Open quarter-finals for the third straight year on Tuesday.

Indian Wells champion Carlos Alcaraz kept his hopes for a Sunshine Double alive with a 6-3 6-3 win over Lorenzo Musetti to reach the Miami Open quarter-finals for the third straight year on Tuesday. The Spaniard needed less than 90 minutes to dispatch the 23rd seed from Italy, pounding forehands and winning 18 of 22 points when he charged to the net. Alcaraz broke serve to start the match and again to grab the drama-free first set against his overmatched opponent. Musetti would finally secure his first break of the match to get back on serve trailing 4-3 in the second set when a suddenly error-prone Alcaraz misfired with a backhand. The momentum would be short-lived, however, with the tournament's 2022 champion breaking back with ease in the next game and ending the affair when Musetti's shot landed in the net on match point. Musetti's best moment came in the second set when he hit a front facing tweener lob over Alcaraz's head and ended the point with a volley to gasps from the fans at Hard Rock Stadium. "Without a doubt, this is the best I've been feeling," Alcaraz, who had struggled with an ankle injury earlier in the season, said after winning his ninth consecutive match. "I'm feeling great on the court, I'm moving great with no injuries because I don't think about the ankle anymore on the court." Alcaraz will next face 11th seed Grigor Dimitrov after the Bulgarian's career renaissance continued with a gritty 3-6 6-3 7-6(3) win over Poland's Hubert Hurkacz. Also read: Tennis: Elena Rybakina survives Maria Sakkari battle to enter Miami Open semifinals MEDVEDEV SURGES Daniil Medvedev took another step towards retaining a title for the first time in his career as the Russian third seed beat Germany's Dominik Koepfer 7-6(5) 6-0 to make the quarter-finals. Medvedev overcame a shaky start and converted four break points while dropping serve just once to secure a spot in the last eight in Miami where he has yet to drop a set. Koepfer was the early aggressor, using a pair of holds at love to build a 4-3 lead in the first set, but Medvedev forced a tiebreak in which he lost the opening four points before finding his way. With a frustrated Koepfer suddenly losing control of his forehand, Medvedev enjoyed much smoother passage through the second set where he broke twice to build a commanding 4-0 lead before closing out the match with a break to love. "Sometimes it happens when you lose the first set the way he lost ... it brings your (opponent's) energy down and I knew that I had to use it (to my advantage) in the beginning of the second set that's where it was the most important," Medvedev said after collecting his 350th career win. The Russian will face Chile's Nicolas Jarry, the 22nd seed, in the last eight, after he beat seventh seed Casper Ruud of Norway 7-6(3) 6-3. In other early action, unseeded Czech Tomas Machac beat Italy's Matteo Arnaldi 6-3 6-3 to reach his first Masters 1000 quarter-final. Machac faces a tough task against second seed Jannik Sinner, who overcame a first set deficit before ultimately coasting to a 6-4 6-3 victory to reach the quarters. Fabian Marozsan, who took out sixth seed Holger Rune earlier in the tournament, continued his stunning run by defeating ninth seed Alex de Minaur 6-4 0-6 6-1. The unseeded Hungarian, who stretched his win-loss record against top-10 opponents to 4-1, could face a daunting task in the last eight against an in-form Alexander Zverev. The fourth-seeded German set up the clash after outclassing Russian Karen Khachanov 6-1 6-4 in a late night contest.

Tennis: Carlos Alcaraz, Daniil Medvedev into Miami Open quarterfinals

Carlos Alcaraz successfully defended his Indian Wells crown with a 7-6(5) 6-1 win over Daniil Medvedev in the final on Sunday (March 17).

In a rematch of last year's final, Alcaraz started sloppily, spraying errors around the court to fall 3-0 down but raised his level and captured the first set when his Russian opponent's forehand went wide in the tiebreak.

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The Spaniard romped through the second set, raising his arms in the air and letting out a roar when Medvedev missed another forehand wide on match point.

Second seed Alcaraz smacked 25 winners to Medvedev's 11 and was especially effective against his opponent's second serves.

It was an eventful stay in the California desert for the 20-year-old Alcaraz.

The two-time major champion was stung on the forehead when a swarm of bees invaded the court on Thursday, kept his number two ranking by ending Jannik Sinner's 19-match winning streak in the semis and slayed the big-serving fourth seed Medvedev in the final.

Swiatek&nbsp;wins women's singles

Iga Swiatek beat Maria Sakkari 6-4 6-0 in the Indian Wells final on Sunday (March 17) to claim the title for a second time in the California desert.

In a rematch of the 2022 final, world number one Swiatek came out firing, building a 3-0 lead before Sakkari worked her way back into the set for 4-4.

But on her third set point, the Pole dragged Sakkari from one side of the court to the other before capturing the opener with a forehand winner.

Swiatek, who did not drop a set all tournament, dominated the second, crushing a running backhand for a 3-0 lead and then breaking serve for 4-0 as the outmatched Greek began to fade.

A backhand winner down the line put Swiatek a game away and the top seed sealed the win by breaking serve to love when Sakkari's forehand sailed wide on match point.

Swiatek is now 19-4 in her career finals and 8-2 at the WTA 1000 level.

Carlos Alcaraz successfully defended his Indian Wells crown with a 7-6(5) 6-1 win over Daniil Medvedev in the final on Sunday (March 17). In a rematch of last year's final, Alcaraz started sloppily, spraying errors around the court to fall 3-0 down but raised his level and captured the first set when his Russian opponent's forehand went wide in the tiebreak.

Carlos Alcaraz successfully defended his Indian Wells crown with a 7-6(5) 6-1 win over Daniil Medvedev in the final on Sunday (March 17). In a rematch of last year's final, Alcaraz started sloppily, spraying errors around the court to fall 3-0 down but raised his level and captured the first set when his Russian opponent's forehand went wide in the tiebreak. Also Read: Stoppage time goals help Chelsea mat Leicester at home to book FA semis ticket The Spaniard romped through the second set, raising his arms in the air and letting out a roar when Medvedev missed another forehand wide on match point. Second seed Alcaraz smacked 25 winners to Medvedev's 11 and was especially effective against his opponent's second serves. It was an eventful stay in the California desert for the 20-year-old Alcaraz. The two-time major champion was stung on the forehead when a swarm of bees invaded the court on Thursday, kept his number two ranking by ending Jannik Sinner's 19-match winning streak in the semis and slayed the big-serving fourth seed Medvedev in the final. Swiatek wins women's singles Iga Swiatek beat Maria Sakkari 6-4 6-0 in the Indian Wells final on Sunday (March 17) to claim the title for a second time in the California desert. In a rematch of the 2022 final, world number one Swiatek came out firing, building a 3-0 lead before Sakkari worked her way back into the set for 4-4. But on her third set point, the Pole dragged Sakkari from one side of the court to the other before capturing the opener with a forehand winner. Swiatek, who did not drop a set all tournament, dominated the second, crushing a running backhand for a 3-0 lead and then breaking serve for 4-0 as the outmatched Greek began to fade. A backhand winner down the line put Swiatek a game away and the top seed sealed the win by breaking serve to love when Sakkari's forehand sailed wide on match point. Swiatek is now 19-4 in her career finals and 8-2 at the WTA 1000 level.

Tennis: Carlos Alcaraz defends Indian Wells title with win over Daniil Medvedev

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz of Spain and Russian fourth seed Daniil Medvedev will clash in Sunday's final of the Indian Wells in a rematch of last year's summit clash after both prevailed in intense three-setters on Saturday.

Alcaraz came from behind to beat Jannik Sinner 1-6 6-3 6-2 before Medvedev edged out American Tommy Paul 1-6 7-6(3) 6-2 in the second semi-final.

Australian Open champion Sinner has been the hottest player on tour this year and looked poised to run away with the match when the Spaniard's forehand went long to end the 34-minute opening set, which was halted by a three-hour rain delay.

Alcaraz would finally break serve with a powerful forehand that set up a put-away volley for a 3-1 second set lead and hit a drop shot even the speedy Sinner did not try to race down to force a decider between the young rivals.

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With Sinner serving in the third set, the Italian dove to keep a ball in play on break point near the net, his hands scraping along the gritty Indian Wells hard court.

Alcaraz's athletic volley secured the break and Sinner appeared to be bothered by his left hand after the exchange.

Alcaraz went up a double break and 4-1 on a forehand wide by a suddenly error-prone Sinner and sealed the win with a crosscourt forehand winner to keep Sinner from taking his world number two ranking and denying him a 20th consecutive win going back to last year.

"I stayed strong mentally and that's very important," Alcaraz said after ending his opponent's winning streak this season at 16 matches. "I had to run more, defend better than I did in the first set. Put more balls in. Stay strong on the court."

Medvedev eked out a similar comeback win against Paul, who was quick off the blocks, dropping just one game in the opening set before the Russian bounced back.

Paul saved two set points to force a tie-break in the second set but Medvedev won five straight points to draw level with him.

Paul was broken from 40-0 in the first game of the third set, which was pretty much a one-sided affair as Medvedev closed out the match to stay on course to avenge his loss to Alcaraz in last year's final.

"He played an unbelievable first set," Medvedev said of his opponent. "So, I was like, OK, if I want to win I just have to try to do a little bit better to find the shot that's going to make him in trouble. I found some, especially on his serve."

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz of Spain and Russian fourth seed Daniil Medvedev will clash in Sunday's final of the Indian Wells in a rematch of last year's summit clash after both prevailed in intense three-setters on Saturday.

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz of Spain and Russian fourth seed Daniil Medvedev will clash in Sunday's final of the Indian Wells in a rematch of last year's summit clash after both prevailed in intense three-setters on Saturday. Alcaraz came from behind to beat Jannik Sinner 1-6 6-3 6-2 before Medvedev edged out American Tommy Paul 1-6 7-6(3) 6-2 in the second semi-final. Australian Open champion Sinner has been the hottest player on tour this year and looked poised to run away with the match when the Spaniard's forehand went long to end the 34-minute opening set, which was halted by a three-hour rain delay. Alcaraz would finally break serve with a powerful forehand that set up a put-away volley for a 3-1 second set lead and hit a drop shot even the speedy Sinner did not try to race down to force a decider between the young rivals. ALSO READ: Rugby: Ireland keep Six Nations Cup with thrilling win over Scotland With Sinner serving in the third set, the Italian dove to keep a ball in play on break point near the net, his hands scraping along the gritty Indian Wells hard court. Alcaraz's athletic volley secured the break and Sinner appeared to be bothered by his left hand after the exchange. Alcaraz went up a double break and 4-1 on a forehand wide by a suddenly error-prone Sinner and sealed the win with a crosscourt forehand winner to keep Sinner from taking his world number two ranking and denying him a 20th consecutive win going back to last year. "I stayed strong mentally and that's very important," Alcaraz said after ending his opponent's winning streak this season at 16 matches. "I had to run more, defend better than I did in the first set. Put more balls in. Stay strong on the court." Medvedev eked out a similar comeback win against Paul, who was quick off the blocks, dropping just one game in the opening set before the Russian bounced back. Paul saved two set points to force a tie-break in the second set but Medvedev won five straight points to draw level with him. Paul was broken from 40-0 in the first game of the third set, which was pretty much a one-sided affair as Medvedev closed out the match to stay on course to avenge his loss to Alcaraz in last year's final. "He played an unbelievable first set," Medvedev said of his opponent. "So, I was like, OK, if I want to win I just have to try to do a little bit better to find the shot that's going to make him in trouble. I found some, especially on his serve."

Tennis: Carlos Alcaraz to meet Daniil Medvedev in Indian Wells final

Holger Rune rallied from a set down and saved a match point to defeat former champion Taylor Fritz 2-6 7-6(2) 6-3 on Wednesday and reach the Indian Wells quarter-finals where he will meet fourth seed Daniil Medvedev. Rune surrendered the opening set in 32 minutes and looked down for the count when 2022 winner Fritz went up 5-4 and 40-30 in the next, but the seventh-seeded Dane produced a vital hold before forcing a tiebreak.

The 20-year-old stepped up a gear to level the contest at one set all and broke his American opponent for the first time with some blistering shotmaking for a 3-1 lead in the decider. With Fritz wilting in the California desert, Rune completed the comeback by closing out the match on serve, finishing with a fiery forehand winner.

"It was crazy. I really just stayed in the moment and kept fighting, trying to play better point to point and I managed to raise my level quite amazingly at the end of the second set, which meant everything for the match," Rune said.

"He was controlling it in the first set and for a long time in the second as well, so I'm just happy I could keep fighting. I kept believing I was going to find my rhythm at some point. It was on the edge but I managed to find it, which was nice."

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Up next for Rune is last year's runner-up Medvedev, who outclassed Grigor Dimitrov 6-4 6-4 with a near-flawless display to stay on course for his first title of the year after falling in the Australian Open final.

Rune, who split his two career meetings with the Russian last year, said he would come out all guns blazing.

"I'm a player that's going to attack. I don't care who I play, I'm going to attack anyways," Rune said. "Against Daniil it's a completely different match from today. The only similarity between him and Fritz have is the big serve. Fritz is close to the baseline while Medvedev is far. "Medvedev on this surface is dangerous like Fritz. I'm just going to recover and believe in myself like I did today."

Earlier, Casper Ruud ended Frenchman Gael Monfils's run with a 3-6 7-6(3) 6-4 victory and plays Tommy Paul after the American brought lucky loser Luca Nardi back down to Earth. After struggling to put winners past the athletic Monfils in the first set, the Norwegian ninth seed became more aggressive in a tight second and rolled through the tiebreak.

Ruud finally broke his 37-year-old opponent for a 3-1 lead in the deciding set and cruised to the finish. A nice moment came when Monfils walked to the service line trailing 3-5 in the third and the crowd rose to cheer on the fan favourite, who smiled and waved his racket in appreciation before holding serve.

After stunning his idol Novak Djokovic on Monday, 20-year-old Italian Nardi was served a dose of reality by Paul, who hit five aces and never dropped serve en route to a 6-4 6-3 win.

Holger Rune rallied from a set down and saved a match point to defeat former champion Taylor Fritz 2-6 7-6(2) 6-3 on Wednesday and reach the Indian Wells quarter-finals where he will meet fourth seed Daniil Medvedev.

Holger Rune rallied from a set down and saved a match point to defeat former champion Taylor Fritz 2-6 7-6(2) 6-3 on Wednesday and reach the Indian Wells quarter-finals where he will meet fourth seed Daniil Medvedev. Rune surrendered the opening set in 32 minutes and looked down for the count when 2022 winner Fritz went up 5-4 and 40-30 in the next, but the seventh-seeded Dane produced a vital hold before forcing a tiebreak. The 20-year-old stepped up a gear to level the contest at one set all and broke his American opponent for the first time with some blistering shotmaking for a 3-1 lead in the decider. With Fritz wilting in the California desert, Rune completed the comeback by closing out the match on serve, finishing with a fiery forehand winner. "It was crazy. I really just stayed in the moment and kept fighting, trying to play better point to point and I managed to raise my level quite amazingly at the end of the second set, which meant everything for the match," Rune said. "He was controlling it in the first set and for a long time in the second as well, so I'm just happy I could keep fighting. I kept believing I was going to find my rhythm at some point. It was on the edge but I managed to find it, which was nice." Also read: Golf: PGA Tour and PIF talks accelerating but issues remain, claims Jay Monahan Up next for Rune is last year's runner-up Medvedev, who outclassed Grigor Dimitrov 6-4 6-4 with a near-flawless display to stay on course for his first title of the year after falling in the Australian Open final. Rune, who split his two career meetings with the Russian last year, said he would come out all guns blazing. "I'm a player that's going to attack. I don't care who I play, I'm going to attack anyways," Rune said. "Against Daniil it's a completely different match from today. The only similarity between him and Fritz have is the big serve. Fritz is close to the baseline while Medvedev is far. "Medvedev on this surface is dangerous like Fritz. I'm just going to recover and believe in myself like I did today." Earlier, Casper Ruud ended Frenchman Gael Monfils's run with a 3-6 7-6(3) 6-4 victory and plays Tommy Paul after the American brought lucky loser Luca Nardi back down to Earth. After struggling to put winners past the athletic Monfils in the first set, the Norwegian ninth seed became more aggressive in a tight second and rolled through the tiebreak. Ruud finally broke his 37-year-old opponent for a 3-1 lead in the deciding set and cruised to the finish. A nice moment came when Monfils walked to the service line trailing 3-5 in the third and the crowd rose to cheer on the fan favourite, who smiled and waved his racket in appreciation before holding serve. After stunning his idol Novak Djokovic on Monday, 20-year-old Italian Nardi was served a dose of reality by Paul, who hit five aces and never dropped serve en route to a 6-4 6-3 win.

Tennis: Holger Rune battles past Taylor Fritz to set up Daniil Medvedev showdown at Indian Wells

World number four Daniil Medvedev said he was excited about competing at the Paris Olympics and will follow the rules as a neutral athlete after the sport's governing body announced its stance on players from Russia and Belarus on Wednesday. The International Tennis Federation (ITF) said players from the two countries could take part in the Paris Games as neutrals without flags, emblems or anthems. Russians and Belarusians were banned from competing internationally following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, for which Belarus has been used as a staging ground.

In March last year, however, the IOC issued a set of recommendations for international sports federations to allow competitors from these countries to return. Speaking before his Indian Wells opener on Friday, Russian Medvedev said he was looking forward to playing in the Olympics after a positive experience in Tokyo three years ago when he made the quarter-finals of the singles competition.

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"If I can, I'm going to be there. I'm going to play singles and doubles," Medvedev told reporters. "When I was in Tokyo it was an amazing experience. It was probably one of the biggest memories of my sporting life, which I was surprised (by) because in tennis, we tend to think that the Grand Slams are more important. "About the neutral flag, I'll follow the rules. If it's under a neutral flag I'll play under a neutral flag and I'm going to try to compete there, show good tennis and try to win, for sure."

Russian and Belarusian players already compete on the ATP and WTA tours as neutrals. The Olympic tennis event will begin on July 27.

World number four Daniil Medvedev said he was excited about competing at the Paris Olympics and will follow the rules as a neutral athlete after the sport's governing body announced its stance on players from Russia and Belarus on Wednesday.

World number four Daniil Medvedev said he was excited about competing at the Paris Olympics and will follow the rules as a neutral athlete after the sport's governing body announced its stance on players from Russia and Belarus on Wednesday. The International Tennis Federation (ITF) said players from the two countries could take part in the Paris Games as neutrals without flags, emblems or anthems. Russians and Belarusians were banned from competing internationally following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, for which Belarus has been used as a staging ground. In March last year, however, the IOC issued a set of recommendations for international sports federations to allow competitors from these countries to return. Speaking before his Indian Wells opener on Friday, Russian Medvedev said he was looking forward to playing in the Olympics after a positive experience in Tokyo three years ago when he made the quarter-finals of the singles competition. Alsor read: Ahead of Paris Olympics, French women gymnastics coach gets suspended amid investigation into abuse "If I can, I'm going to be there. I'm going to play singles and doubles," Medvedev told reporters. "When I was in Tokyo it was an amazing experience. It was probably one of the biggest memories of my sporting life, which I was surprised (by) because in tennis, we tend to think that the Grand Slams are more important. "About the neutral flag, I'll follow the rules. If it's under a neutral flag I'll play under a neutral flag and I'm going to try to compete there, show good tennis and try to win, for sure." Russian and Belarusian players already compete on the ATP and WTA tours as neutrals. The Olympic tennis event will begin on July 27.

Tennis: Daniil Medvedev ready to play as neutral athlete in forthcoming Paris Olympics

Top seed Daniil Medvedev, after a battle in the second round, had a smoother outing Thursday in defeating Alejandro Davidovich Fokina 6-2, 6-3 in the quarterfinals of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships. Medvedev had needed three sets to oust Italian Lorenzo Sonego a day earlier, but the Russian rode 15 winners, three aces and just six unforced errors to dispatch Spain's Davidovich Fokina in one hour and 17 minutes.

Fifth seed Ugo Humbert of France outlasted No. 3 Hubert Hurkacz of Poland, 3-6, 7-6 (8), 6-3 to advance to the semifinals against Medvedev. Humbert saved three match points in the second-set tiebreak. He hit 24 winners in the match lasting two hours and 24 minutes.

Two other seeded players advanced when their unseeded opponents retired due to injury during their quarterfinal matches. No. 2 Andrey Rublev of Russia eliminated American Sebastian Korda 6-4, 4-3 (retired), and No. 7 Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan moved past the Czech Republic's Jiri Lehecka 6-4, 4-1 (retired).

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Movistar Chile Open

Fourth-seeded Alejandro Tabilo won an all-Chilean second-round matchup in Santiago, Chile, beating Tomas Barrios Vera 6-2, 7-5. Tabilo won 91 percent of his first-serve points and did not face a break point. Tabilo advances to a quarterfinal match against Italy's Luciano Darderi, who downed Argentine qualifier Juan Manuel Cerundolo 6-3, 3-6, 6-3.

Second-seeded Sebastian Baez of Argentina rallied past Peru's Juan Pablo Varillas 4-6, 6-4, 6-2. Baez's quarterfinal foe will be eighth-seeded Jaume Munar, who routed Spanish countryman Albert Ramos-Vinolas 6-3, 6-1.

In the other quarterfinals, third-seeded Arthur Fils of France will face Spain's Pedro Martinez, and top-seeded Nicolas Jarry of Chile will go up against French qualifier Corentin Moutet.

Top seed Daniil Medvedev, after a battle in the second round, had a smoother outing Thursday in defeating Alejandro Davidovich Fokina 6-2, 6-3 in the quarterfinals of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships.

Top seed Daniil Medvedev, after a battle in the second round, had a smoother outing Thursday in defeating Alejandro Davidovich Fokina 6-2, 6-3 in the quarterfinals of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships. Medvedev had needed three sets to oust Italian Lorenzo Sonego a day earlier, but the Russian rode 15 winners, three aces and just six unforced errors to dispatch Spain's Davidovich Fokina in one hour and 17 minutes. Fifth seed Ugo Humbert of France outlasted No. 3 Hubert Hurkacz of Poland, 3-6, 7-6 (8), 6-3 to advance to the semifinals against Medvedev. Humbert saved three match points in the second-set tiebreak. He hit 24 winners in the match lasting two hours and 24 minutes. Two other seeded players advanced when their unseeded opponents retired due to injury during their quarterfinal matches. No. 2 Andrey Rublev of Russia eliminated American Sebastian Korda 6-4, 4-3 (retired), and No. 7 Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan moved past the Czech Republic's Jiri Lehecka 6-4, 4-1 (retired). Also read: Tennis: Czech Republic's Jiri Lehecka pulls off upset vs Karen Khachanov at Dubai Movistar Chile Open Fourth-seeded Alejandro Tabilo won an all-Chilean second-round matchup in Santiago, Chile, beating Tomas Barrios Vera 6-2, 7-5. Tabilo won 91 percent of his first-serve points and did not face a break point. Tabilo advances to a quarterfinal match against Italy's Luciano Darderi, who downed Argentine qualifier Juan Manuel Cerundolo 6-3, 3-6, 6-3. Second-seeded Sebastian Baez of Argentina rallied past Peru's Juan Pablo Varillas 4-6, 6-4, 6-2. Baez's quarterfinal foe will be eighth-seeded Jaume Munar, who routed Spanish countryman Albert Ramos-Vinolas 6-3, 6-1. In the other quarterfinals, third-seeded Arthur Fils of France will face Spain's Pedro Martinez, and top-seeded Nicolas Jarry of Chile will go up against French qualifier Corentin Moutet.

Tennis: Russia's Daniil Medvedev cruises into Dubai Championships semifinals

Daniil Medvedev returned to action for the first time since his Australian final defeat on Tuesday with a straight sets win over Alexander Shevchenko in Dubai.

The world number four got his title defence at the hardcourt ATP 500 event up and running, overcoming Shevchenko 6-3, 7-5.

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The Russian shrugged off his month-long absence, breaking his Kazakh opponent in three consecutive return games in the first set before reeling off four games in a row from 3-5 in the second set to complete an 88-minute triumph.

He will meet either Lorenzo Sonego or wild card Sumit Nagal in the next round.

In January, Medvedev reached his second Australian Open final. He lost to Rafael Nadal in the Melbourne decider two years ago, and this time had to settle for second best in the season's opening Grand Slam to Jannik Sinner.

He was forced to skip his title defence in Doha last week because he was dealing with a number of physical issues –- with his foot, adductor, and shoulder -– but said on the eve of Tuesday's return he was ready to get back on court after spending the last seven days training in Dubai.

The 28-year-old has added French former world number six Gilles Simon to his team, to collaborate with his long-time coach Gilles Cervara.

Daniil Medvedev returned to action for the first time since his Australian final defeat on Tuesday with a straight sets win over Alexander Shevchenko in Dubai. The world number four got his title defence at the hardcourt ATP 500 event up and running, overcoming Shevchenko 6-3, 7-5.

Daniil Medvedev returned to action for the first time since his Australian final defeat on Tuesday with a straight sets win over Alexander Shevchenko in Dubai. The world number four got his title defence at the hardcourt ATP 500 event up and running, overcoming Shevchenko 6-3, 7-5. Also Read: Not the coach's decision: Mauricio Pochettino on getting more time with Chelsea after League Cup loss The Russian shrugged off his month-long absence, breaking his Kazakh opponent in three consecutive return games in the first set before reeling off four games in a row from 3-5 in the second set to complete an 88-minute triumph. He will meet either Lorenzo Sonego or wild card Sumit Nagal in the next round. In January, Medvedev reached his second Australian Open final. He lost to Rafael Nadal in the Melbourne decider two years ago, and this time had to settle for second best in the season's opening Grand Slam to Jannik Sinner. He was forced to skip his title defence in Doha last week because he was dealing with a number of physical issues –- with his foot, adductor, and shoulder -– but said on the eve of Tuesday's return he was ready to get back on court after spending the last seven days training in Dubai. The 28-year-old has added French former world number six Gilles Simon to his team, to collaborate with his long-time coach Gilles Cervara.

Tennis: Daniil Medvedev makes winning return in Dubai Championship after Australian Open final loss

Italian Jannik Sinner produced a monumental comeback in the Australian Open final on Sunday (Jan 28) after he beat Russian Daniil Medvedev at the Rod Laver Arena. Sinner, playing against the former US Open champion came back from two sets down to win 3-6, 3-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-3 and clinch his maiden Grand Slam title. The defeat for Medvedev was his third at the Australian Open having also lost in the 2021 and 2022 final to Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal respectively. The win against Medvedev also means that only for the second time in 19 years there has been a winner other than Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer.

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SIN-PLY THE BEST 🏆<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2024</a> <a href="https://t.co/R1MFxck59L">pic.twitter.com/R1MFxck59L</a>
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<h2>Sinner sweats to win Australian Open</h2>

In a contest that lasted over three hours, the 22-year-old was at the receiving end of a great show from Medvedev in the opening two sets and lost 3-6, 3-6&nbsp;before mounting the comeback. Having been broken three times during the opening two sets, Sinner was under pressure to hold his serve. However, he showed nerves of steel to mount a comeback.

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In the third set with both players reluctant to lose their serve, it was the decisive 10th game where Sinner capitalised. With Medvedev serving stay in the set, Sinner broke his serve to pocket the whole thing 6-4. Sinner, by winning the set on Medvedev's serve was handed a realistic advantage of serving first in the fourth set.

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In a Deja Vu moment in the fourth set, it was again the 10th game where Sinner broke Medvedev to bring the match to parity. The 22-year-old Italian won the fourth set 6-4.

In the final set, with momentum on his side, he again broke the Russian in the sixth game to seize advantage. Sinner then consolidated on the fifth-set lead to finally serve for the championship and win the Australian Open title.

With the win, he becomes the first Italian player to win a men’s singles Grand Slam since Adriano Panatta. The Legendary player won the 1976 French Open and since then Italy has seen a Grand Slam drought in men’s singles. Matteo Berrettini came closer to ending the drought in 2021 when he finished runner-up to Novak Djokovic at the Wimbledon Championships.

Italian Jannik Sinner produced a monumental comeback in the Australian Open final on Sunday (Jan 28) after he beat Russian Daniil Medvedev at the Rod Laver Arena.

Italian Jannik Sinner produced a monumental comeback in the Australian Open final on Sunday (Jan 28) after he beat Russian Daniil Medvedev at the Rod Laver Arena. Sinner, playing against the former US Open champion came back from two sets down to win 3-6, 3-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-3 and clinch his maiden Grand Slam title. The defeat for Medvedev was his third at the Australian Open having also lost in the 2021 and 2022 final to Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal respectively. The win against Medvedev also means that only for the second time in 19 years there has been a winner other than Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer. SIN-PLY THE BEST 🏆#AO2024 pic.twitter.com/R1MFxck59L — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 28, 2024 × Sinner sweats to win Australian Open In a contest that lasted over three hours, the 22-year-old was at the receiving end of a great show from Medvedev in the opening two sets and lost 3-6, 3-6 before mounting the comeback. Having been broken three times during the opening two sets, Sinner was under pressure to hold his serve. However, he showed nerves of steel to mount a comeback. × In the third set with both players reluctant to lose their serve, it was the decisive 10th game where Sinner capitalised. With Medvedev serving stay in the set, Sinner broke his serve to pocket the whole thing 6-4. Sinner, by winning the set on Medvedev's serve was handed a realistic advantage of serving first in the fourth set. ALSO READ | We're not pathetic: WI skipper Kraigg Brathwaite hits back at former Australia player after famous Gabba win In a Deja Vu moment in the fourth set, it was again the 10th game where Sinner broke Medvedev to bring the match to parity. The 22-year-old Italian won the fourth set 6-4. In the final set, with momentum on his side, he again broke the Russian in the sixth game to seize advantage. Sinner then consolidated on the fifth-set lead to finally serve for the championship and win the Australian Open title. With the win, he becomes the first Italian player to win a men’s singles Grand Slam since Adriano Panatta. The Legendary player won the 1976 French Open and since then Italy has seen a Grand Slam drought in men’s singles. Matteo Berrettini came closer to ending the drought in 2021 when he finished runner-up to Novak Djokovic at the Wimbledon Championships.

Australian Open: Jannik Sinner makes thrilling comeback, stuns Medvedev to win maiden Grand Slam title

Russia’s Daniil Medvedev has booked his third Australian Open final after a thrilling win over German Alexander Zverev on Friday (Jan 26). Medvedev, down two sets in the match produced yet another comeback at the Rod Laver Arena to win the match 5-7, 3-6, 7-6, 7-6, 6-3. The win for Medvedev coupled with the defeat of Novak Djokovic means there will be a new champion at Australian Open for the first time since Stanislas Wawrinka in 2014. Sunday’s final will now see Medvedev square off against Sinner for the top prize at Melbourne Park.

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Will it be the year of the 🐙 or the 🦊?!<a href="https://twitter.com/DaniilMedwed?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DaniilMedwed</a> comes from two sets down to defeat Sascha Zverev! He'll face Jannik Sinner to crown a first-time <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> champion! 
 
The comeback king. The marathon man. The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2024</a> finalist.<a href="https://twitter.com/wwos?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@wwos</a> • <a href="https://twitter.com/espn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@espn</a> • <a href="https://twitter.com/eurosport?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@eurosport</a> • <a href="https://twitter.com/wowowtennis?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@wowowtennis</a> <a href="https://t.co/1IxpvKsDut">pic.twitter.com/1IxpvKsDut</a>
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<h2>Medvedev’s early struggles</h2>

Having already battled past one five-set contest, the Russian tennis star needed another storming comeback after he lost the opening two sets of the semifinal contest against Zverev. Medvedev lost his serve at the wrong time in the first set and handed it to his opponent&nbsp;at 7-5. The Russian again was on the back foot in the second set where he was broken once again which the German Olympic champion consolidated. Zverev would pocket the second set 6-3 and establish himself as a firm favourite to win the match.

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The 2021 US Open champion though did not give up easily and lifted the atmosphere by keeping hold of his serve. With both players reluctant to surrender the serve, the third set went into a tiebreaker where Medvedev prevailed to gain the upper hand and mount his comeback in the match.

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It was no different situation in the fourth set as Medvedev&nbsp;kept his cool to win the fourth set tiebreaker to bring the match to parity.

The Russian&nbsp;then brought his A-Game to the court and earned a vital break in the deciding set. He&nbsp;consolidate on the break to win the match 5-7, 3-6, 7-6, 7-6, 6-3. It is the second time at the Australian Open that Medvedev has come back from two sets down to win the match. He earlier beat Emil Ruusuvuori of Finland in the second round where he was two sets down.

Sunday’s final will be Medvedev’s sixth Grand Slam showdown having only won the US Open in 2021 beating Djokovic in the final. This will be his third Australian Open final having previously lost to Djokovic and Rafael Nadal in the final in 2021 and 2022 respectively.

Russia’s Daniil Medvedev has booked his third Australian Open final after a thrilling win over German Alexander Zverev on Friday (Jan 26). Medvedev, down two sets in the match produced yet another comeback at the Rod Laver Arena to win the match 5-7, 3-6, 7-6, 7-6, 6-3.

Russia’s Daniil Medvedev has booked his third Australian Open final after a thrilling win over German Alexander Zverev on Friday (Jan 26). Medvedev, down two sets in the match produced yet another comeback at the Rod Laver Arena to win the match 5-7, 3-6, 7-6, 7-6, 6-3. The win for Medvedev coupled with the defeat of Novak Djokovic means there will be a new champion at Australian Open for the first time since Stanislas Wawrinka in 2014. Sunday’s final will now see Medvedev square off against Sinner for the top prize at Melbourne Park. Will it be the year of the 🐙 or the 🦊?!@DaniilMedwed comes from two sets down to defeat Sascha Zverev! He'll face Jannik Sinner to crown a first-time #AusOpen champion! The comeback king. The marathon man. The #AO2024 finalist.@wwos • @espn • @eurosport • @wowowtennis pic.twitter.com/1IxpvKsDut — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 26, 2024 × Medvedev’s early struggles Having already battled past one five-set contest, the Russian tennis star needed another storming comeback after he lost the opening two sets of the semifinal contest against Zverev. Medvedev lost his serve at the wrong time in the first set and handed it to his opponent at 7-5. The Russian again was on the back foot in the second set where he was broken once again which the German Olympic champion consolidated. Zverev would pocket the second set 6-3 and establish himself as a firm favourite to win the match. × The 2021 US Open champion though did not give up easily and lifted the atmosphere by keeping hold of his serve. With both players reluctant to surrender the serve, the third set went into a tiebreaker where Medvedev prevailed to gain the upper hand and mount his comeback in the match. ALSO READ | IND vs ENG, 1st Test: Iceland Cricket takes CHEEKY DIG at England after day 1 It was no different situation in the fourth set as Medvedev kept his cool to win the fourth set tiebreaker to bring the match to parity. The Russian then brought his A-Game to the court and earned a vital break in the deciding set. He consolidate on the break to win the match 5-7, 3-6, 7-6, 7-6, 6-3. It is the second time at the Australian Open that Medvedev has come back from two sets down to win the match. He earlier beat Emil Ruusuvuori of Finland in the second round where he was two sets down. Sunday’s final will be Medvedev’s sixth Grand Slam showdown having only won the US Open in 2021 beating Djokovic in the final. This will be his third Australian Open final having previously lost to Djokovic and Rafael Nadal in the final in 2021 and 2022 respectively.

Australian Open: Daniil Medvedev sets Jannik Sinner clash in final after five-set thriller vs Alexander Zverev

Daniil Medvedev edged past Hubert Hurkacz in a five-set thriller at the Rod Laver Arena in&nbsp;Melbourne Park, Melbourne, on Wednesday (Jan 24) to enter the Australian Open semifinals. With this, Medvedev became the third semifinalist of the ongoing edition, after world number one Novak Djokovic and Jannik Sinner. Medvedev now awaits the winner of the quarterfinal clash between Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev for an exciting semis battle.

Talking about the evenly-fought contest versus Hurkacz, Medvedev won the opening set in the tiebreaker; winning 7-6 (7-4). The second set saw a fine comeback from his Polish opponent, who dominated proceedings and won 6-2. The following set displayed Medvedev's&nbsp;class and grit as he emerged on top&nbsp;6-3.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-qualifier-dayana-yastremska-goes-past-linda-noskova-to-book-semifinal-spot-683055">Australian Open: Qualifier Dayana Yastremska goes past Linda Noskova to book semifinal spot</a>

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The match became more intense with both players giving a tough fight in the final two sets. The fourth and penultimate one was won by Hurkacz, 7-5, before the Russian won the match by winning the final set 6-4. Thus, Medvedev --&nbsp;who saved 10 of the 15 break points he faced over the contest -- eventually won 7-6(4) 2-6 6-3 5-7 6-4 to reach the last four.

The third-seeded Medvedev will have another stern test when he comes up against Alcaraz or Zverev in the semifinal clash, to be held on Friday (Jan 26).

Daniil Medvedev edged past Hubert Hurkacz in a five-set thriller at the Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne Park, Melbourne, on Wednesday (Jan 24) to enter the Australian Open semifinals.

Daniil Medvedev edged past Hubert Hurkacz in a five-set thriller at the Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne Park, Melbourne, on Wednesday (Jan 24) to enter the Australian Open semifinals. With this, Medvedev became the third semifinalist of the ongoing edition, after world number one Novak Djokovic and Jannik Sinner. Medvedev now awaits the winner of the quarterfinal clash between Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev for an exciting semis battle. Talking about the evenly-fought contest versus Hurkacz, Medvedev won the opening set in the tiebreaker; winning 7-6 (7-4). The second set saw a fine comeback from his Polish opponent, who dominated proceedings and won 6-2. The following set displayed Medvedev's class and grit as he emerged on top 6-3. Also read: Australian Open: Qualifier Dayana Yastremska goes past Linda Noskova to book semifinal spot × The match became more intense with both players giving a tough fight in the final two sets. The fourth and penultimate one was won by Hurkacz, 7-5, before the Russian won the match by winning the final set 6-4. Thus, Medvedev -- who saved 10 of the 15 break points he faced over the contest -- eventually won 7-6(4) 2-6 6-3 5-7 6-4 to reach the last four. The third-seeded Medvedev will have another stern test when he comes up against Alcaraz or Zverev in the semifinal clash, to be held on Friday (Jan 26).

Australian Open: Medvedev edges past Hurkacz in five-set thriller to enter semis, to face Alcaraz or Zverev

Russia's&nbsp;Daniil Medvedev marched&nbsp;ahead in the Australian Open 2024 edition with a&nbsp;win over Nuno Borges in the&nbsp;fourth round on Monday (Jan 22) in Melbourne. Medvedev beat Portuguese player&nbsp;Borges 6-3, 7-6 (7-4), 5-7, 6-1 to enter the quarter-finals of the first-ever Grand Slam of the calendar year. After this win, the world number three will now lock horns with Poland's&nbsp;Hubert Hurkacz in the quarters.&nbsp;

Talking about his clash with Borges, Medvedev started in a dominating fashion. He won the first set 6-3 and it seemed as if he would rush past his opponent. However, there were some challenges posed by Borges as the clash went ahead. Medvedev closed the second set as well, winning it 7-6 courtesy of a 7-4 lead in the tiebreaker.&nbsp;

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Medvedev was ahead in the third set as well. Just when he seemed that he would close the match soon, with a 5-3 lead, Borges stormed his way back into the contest and won the set 7-5. However, his resistance ended in the fourth and penultimate set as Medvedev -- who dominated with aces (13-5) -- won it 6-1. Overall, he was ahead of Borges in every department but would be eager to cut down on his double fault errors going ahead (11-4).&nbsp;

Medvedev, who has been the runner-up twice in the Australian Open, is eyeing his first-ever major title Down Under. He will look to keep going ahead in a similar manner as bigger challenges await the former world number one.

Russia's Daniil Medvedev marched ahead in the Australian Open 2024 edition with a win over Nuno Borges in the fourth round on Monday (Jan 22) in Melbourne. Medvedev beat Portuguese player Borges 6-3, 7-6 (7-4), 5-7, 6-1 to enter the quarter-finals of the first-ever Grand Slam of the calendar year.

Russia's Daniil Medvedev marched ahead in the Australian Open 2024 edition with a win over Nuno Borges in the fourth round on Monday (Jan 22) in Melbourne. Medvedev beat Portuguese player Borges 6-3, 7-6 (7-4), 5-7, 6-1 to enter the quarter-finals of the first-ever Grand Slam of the calendar year. After this win, the world number three will now lock horns with Poland's Hubert Hurkacz in the quarters. Talking about his clash with Borges, Medvedev started in a dominating fashion. He won the first set 6-3 and it seemed as if he would rush past his opponent. However, there were some challenges posed by Borges as the clash went ahead. Medvedev closed the second set as well, winning it 7-6 courtesy of a 7-4 lead in the tiebreaker. Also read: Qualifier Dayana Yastremska ousts Victoria Azarenka at Australian Open × Medvedev was ahead in the third set as well. Just when he seemed that he would close the match soon, with a 5-3 lead, Borges stormed his way back into the contest and won the set 7-5. However, his resistance ended in the fourth and penultimate set as Medvedev -- who dominated with aces (13-5) -- won it 6-1. Overall, he was ahead of Borges in every department but would be eager to cut down on his double fault errors going ahead (11-4). Medvedev, who has been the runner-up twice in the Australian Open, is eyeing his first-ever major title Down Under. He will look to keep going ahead in a similar manner as bigger challenges await the former world number one.

Aus Open: Daniil Medvedev marches ahead after win over Nuno Borges in fourth round

Russia’s Daniil Medvedev battled past Finland’s Emil Ruusuvuori in a marathon contest at the Australian Open 2024 after producing a remarkable comeback on Thursday (Jan 18). Playing at the iconic Rod Laver Arena, the two-time runner-up came from two sets down to beat Ruusuvuori 3-6, 6-7, 6-4, 7-6, 6-0 to book his place in the third round. The Russian is bidding to win his maiden Australian Open title having finished runner-up in 2021 and 2022.

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M3DV3D3V 🤯 
 
For the 3rd time in his career <a href="https://twitter.com/DaniilMedwed?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DaniilMedwed</a> battles back from two sets down to edge Ruusuvuori <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> • <a href="https://twitter.com/wwos?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@wwos</a> • <a href="https://twitter.com/espn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@espn</a> • <a href="https://twitter.com/eurosport?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@eurosport</a> • <a href="https://twitter.com/wowowtennis?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@wowowtennis</a> <a href="https://t.co/jekzcoJcnS">pic.twitter.com/jekzcoJcnS</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1748023376336007619?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Medvedev comes from behind to win</h2>

In a contest where&nbsp;Medvedev&nbsp;was dominated in the opening two sets but came back to win the game will be remembered for a very long time. In the opening set of the match, he lost his serve at the crucial point and handed the initiative to the Finish player who is currently ranked World No. 421. He grabbed hold of his own serve to pocket the set 6-3 before producing another master class.

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With the second set heading into&nbsp;tiebreak, Ruusuvuori produced his best on the crucial occasion and grabbed hold of the match with a superb show. Medvedev was stunned after he only won one point in the tiebreak. At this point, Ruusuvuori was about to produce his best Grand Slam performance having stood on the verge of the third round. He had only reached the second round of a Grand Slam in the past with exits in 2021 and 2023 showpieces at AO.

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<h2>Medvedev scripts comeback</h2>

After being outclassed, the Russian was left with no margin for error and produced the champion’s comeback at the Rod Laver Arena. He broke his opponent at the midway point of the third set and consolidated the advantage to pull one set back. The fourth set was a close one, but 27-year-old Medvedev&nbsp;pulled out his experience and brought the match to parity winning the tiebreak 7-1

In the final set, the Finnish Ruusuvuori ran out of&nbsp;steam as he surrendered against an inspired Medvedev. The former US Open champion pocketed the final set 6-0 and thereby the match to book a third round meeting with&nbsp;27th seed Canadian Felix Auger Aliassime. Medvedev’s match lasted for 4 hours 23 minutes and got over at 3:40 AM Melbourne time.&nbsp;

Russia’s Daniil Medvedev battled past Finland’s Emil Ruusuvuori in a marathon contest at the Australian Open 2024 after producing a remarkable comeback on Thursday (Jan 18).

Russia’s Daniil Medvedev battled past Finland’s Emil Ruusuvuori in a marathon contest at the Australian Open 2024 after producing a remarkable comeback on Thursday (Jan 18). Playing at the iconic Rod Laver Arena, the two-time runner-up came from two sets down to beat Ruusuvuori 3-6, 6-7, 6-4, 7-6, 6-0 to book his place in the third round. The Russian is bidding to win his maiden Australian Open title having finished runner-up in 2021 and 2022. M3DV3D3V 🤯 For the 3rd time in his career @DaniilMedwed battles back from two sets down to edge Ruusuvuori #AusOpen • @wwos • @espn • @eurosport • @wowowtennis pic.twitter.com/jekzcoJcnS — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 18, 2024 × Medvedev comes from behind to win In a contest where Medvedev was dominated in the opening two sets but came back to win the game will be remembered for a very long time. In the opening set of the match, he lost his serve at the crucial point and handed the initiative to the Finish player who is currently ranked World No. 421. He grabbed hold of his own serve to pocket the set 6-3 before producing another master class. × With the second set heading into tiebreak, Ruusuvuori produced his best on the crucial occasion and grabbed hold of the match with a superb show. Medvedev was stunned after he only won one point in the tiebreak. At this point, Ruusuvuori was about to produce his best Grand Slam performance having stood on the verge of the third round. He had only reached the second round of a Grand Slam in the past with exits in 2021 and 2023 showpieces at AO. ALSO READ | Aus Open 2024: Carlos Alcaraz battles past Italy's Lorenzo Sonega to reach Round 3 Medvedev scripts comeback After being outclassed, the Russian was left with no margin for error and produced the champion’s comeback at the Rod Laver Arena. He broke his opponent at the midway point of the third set and consolidated the advantage to pull one set back. The fourth set was a close one, but 27-year-old Medvedev pulled out his experience and brought the match to parity winning the tiebreak 7-1 In the final set, the Finnish Ruusuvuori ran out of steam as he surrendered against an inspired Medvedev. The former US Open champion pocketed the final set 6-0 and thereby the match to book a third round meeting with 27th seed Canadian Felix Auger Aliassime. Medvedev’s match lasted for 4 hours 23 minutes and got over at 3:40 AM Melbourne time.

Australian Open 2024: Daniil Medvedev produces champion's comeback in second round win over Emil Ruusuvuori

Frenchman Terence Atmane smashed his racquet, served underarm and retired in tears as he dealt with serious cramp in pushing third seed Daniil Medvedev hard at the Australian Open on Monday.

The qualifier struggled in the searing heat on Margaret Court Arena, stunning the Russian by taking the first set but was unable to continue when trailing 5-7, 6-2, 6-4, 1-0.

"The conditions were brutal," said two-time tournament finalist Medvedev. "The more he (Atmane) plays this intensity, the better he will be prepared."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-open-gauff-shakes-off-service-woes-to-down-schmiedlova-wimbledon-champion-vondrousova-crashes-out-679993">Gauff shakes off service woes to down Schmiedlova, Wimbledon champion Vondrousova crashes out</a>

"I'm just happy to be through," he added. "I played bad at the beginning in the first set, but I was happy I could regain momentum."&nbsp;

Medvedev broke for 2-1 in the opening set and raced to 5-3, but a battling Atmane levelled the score at 5-5 when Medvedev missed a volley.

With his confidence building, the Frenchman, on his Grand Slam debut, held serve then broke again to take the set and leave the world number three shaking his head in disbelief.

Medvedev woke up to steam through the second set before Atmane started cramping badly.

He resorted to underarm serves as he struggled to move and demolished his racquet when he lost serve to slip 2-1 behind in the third set.

The 22-year-old gamely battled on, still in pain, mixing underarm and overarm serves as Medvedev cashed in to take the third set.

But after losing the first game of the fourth set, he was forced to retire, sobbing as his tournament ended.

Medvedev, who faces Finland's unseeded Emil Ruusuvuori in the next round, said ahead of the match he is trying to "mature" and do fewer "stupid things" on court to shake off his reputation as a tennis villain.

The Russian is no stranger to outbursts and meltdowns on court, which has earned him a love-hate relationship with fans.

He was mostly well behaved against Atmane, but did complain about the water bottles.

Medvedev lost to Novak Djokovic in the 2021 Melbourne final and Rafael Nadal a year later, which sparked a form slump.

But has since bounced back, winning 66 matches last season, more than any other player on tour.

Frenchman Terence Atmane smashed his racquet, served underarm and retired in tears as he dealt with serious cramp in pushing third seed Daniil Medvedev hard at the Australian Open on Monday.

Frenchman Terence Atmane smashed his racquet, served underarm and retired in tears as he dealt with serious cramp in pushing third seed Daniil Medvedev hard at the Australian Open on Monday. The qualifier struggled in the searing heat on Margaret Court Arena, stunning the Russian by taking the first set but was unable to continue when trailing 5-7, 6-2, 6-4, 1-0. "The conditions were brutal," said two-time tournament finalist Medvedev. "The more he (Atmane) plays this intensity, the better he will be prepared." Also Read: Gauff shakes off service woes to down Schmiedlova, Wimbledon champion Vondrousova crashes out "I'm just happy to be through," he added. "I played bad at the beginning in the first set, but I was happy I could regain momentum." Medvedev broke for 2-1 in the opening set and raced to 5-3, but a battling Atmane levelled the score at 5-5 when Medvedev missed a volley. With his confidence building, the Frenchman, on his Grand Slam debut, held serve then broke again to take the set and leave the world number three shaking his head in disbelief. Medvedev woke up to steam through the second set before Atmane started cramping badly. He resorted to underarm serves as he struggled to move and demolished his racquet when he lost serve to slip 2-1 behind in the third set. The 22-year-old gamely battled on, still in pain, mixing underarm and overarm serves as Medvedev cashed in to take the third set. But after losing the first game of the fourth set, he was forced to retire, sobbing as his tournament ended. Medvedev, who faces Finland's unseeded Emil Ruusuvuori in the next round, said ahead of the match he is trying to "mature" and do fewer "stupid things" on court to shake off his reputation as a tennis villain. The Russian is no stranger to outbursts and meltdowns on court, which has earned him a love-hate relationship with fans. He was mostly well behaved against Atmane, but did complain about the water bottles. Medvedev lost to Novak Djokovic in the 2021 Melbourne final and Rafael Nadal a year later, which sparked a form slump. But has since bounced back, winning 66 matches last season, more than any other player on tour.

Australian Open: Daniil Medvedev gets walkover win in opening round after opponent retires with cramps

Top seed Daniil&nbsp;Medvedev&nbsp;began his title defence at the&nbsp;Vienna&nbsp;Open on Wednesday (October 25) with a comfortable 6-4 6-2 win over Arthur&nbsp;Fils. Three days removed from falling short to eventual champion Andrey Rublev in the European Open final in Antwerp, the 19-year-old French protege proved no match for the world number three who dispatched of&nbsp;Fils&nbsp;in an hour and a quarter.

The victory at the ATP 500 event is&nbsp;Medvedev's&nbsp;44th this season on his preferred hard courts and 61st overall, leaving him just two wins behind Carlos Alcaraz for the most this season.

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Awaiting&nbsp;Medvedev&nbsp;in the second round is Bulgaria's Grigor Dimitrov, who overcame Lorenzo Musetti 6-3 6-4 on Tuesday.

Top seed Daniil Medvedev began his title defence at the Vienna Open on Wednesday (October 25) with a comfortable 6-4 6-2 win over Arthur Fils. Three days removed from falling short to eventual champion Andrey Rublev in the European Open final in Antwerp, the 19-year-old French protege proved no match for the world number three who dispatched of Fils in an hour and a quarter.

Top seed Daniil Medvedev began his title defence at the Vienna Open on Wednesday (October 25) with a comfortable 6-4 6-2 win over Arthur Fils. Three days removed from falling short to eventual champion Andrey Rublev in the European Open final in Antwerp, the 19-year-old French protege proved no match for the world number three who dispatched of Fils in an hour and a quarter. The victory at the ATP 500 event is Medvedev's 44th this season on his preferred hard courts and 61st overall, leaving him just two wins behind Carlos Alcaraz for the most this season. Also Read: Arsenal plot long stay at Premier League summit, Man City play Tottenham and Newcastle host Man United WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. Awaiting Medvedev in the second round is Bulgaria's Grigor Dimitrov, who overcame Lorenzo Musetti 6-3 6-4 on Tuesday.

Tennis: Russian star Daniil Medvedev comfortably goes past Arthur Fils in Vienna Open

Carlos Alacraz set up an ATP Finals last-four showdown with Novak Djokovic after beating Daniil Medvedev 6-4, 6-4 on Friday and topping the Red Group.

World number two Alcaraz needed to win to ensure a spot in the last four on his debut appearance at the season-ending tournament.

And he did just that in impressive fashion, cruising to a straight-sets victory which ensured him first place ahead of Medvedev regardless of what happens in Friday night's dead-rubber between Alexander Zverev and Andrey Rublev.

"It's amazing to be able to play the semi-finals here on my first time. I played some great tennis these last two matches," said Alcaraz.

"Novak is Novak, he is the best player in the world right now, he's just lost six matches this year so that means he is unbelievable. I'm going to bring my best tennis."

Alcaraz also gained a small measure of revenge for defeat in the US Open semi-finals against Medvedev, who finishes second in the group after having already qualified for the semis on Wednesday.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-final-weather-pitch-report-for-narendra-modi-stadium-ahead-of-india-vs-australia-world-cup-clash-659708">IND vs AUS final: Weather &amp; pitch report for Narendra Modi stadium ahead of India vs Australia World Cup clash</a>

Alcaraz came into the Finals struggling with form and injury but has warmed up as the tournament has progressed and his semi-final with Djokovic on Saturday promises to be a blockbuster.

Djokovic, who has already secured the year-end top spot in the world rankings, is gunning for a record-breaking seventh Finals triumph after qualifying second in the Green Group.

Medvedev, the 2020 Finals champion, will now face home hope Jannik Sinner, who became the first Italian ever to reach the semis on Thursday.

The Russian has faced Sinner in four finals this season, sharing them with two wins each but prevailing in the most important, at the Miami Masters back in April.

Carlos Alacraz set up an ATP Finals last-four showdown with Novak Djokovic after beating Daniil Medvedev 6-4, 6-4 on Friday and topping the Red Group. World number two Alcaraz needed to win to ensure a spot in the last four on his debut appearance at the season-ending tournament.

Carlos Alacraz set up an ATP Finals last-four showdown with Novak Djokovic after beating Daniil Medvedev 6-4, 6-4 on Friday and topping the Red Group. World number two Alcaraz needed to win to ensure a spot in the last four on his debut appearance at the season-ending tournament. And he did just that in impressive fashion, cruising to a straight-sets victory which ensured him first place ahead of Medvedev regardless of what happens in Friday night's dead-rubber between Alexander Zverev and Andrey Rublev. "It's amazing to be able to play the semi-finals here on my first time. I played some great tennis these last two matches," said Alcaraz. "Novak is Novak, he is the best player in the world right now, he's just lost six matches this year so that means he is unbelievable. I'm going to bring my best tennis." Alcaraz also gained a small measure of revenge for defeat in the US Open semi-finals against Medvedev, who finishes second in the group after having already qualified for the semis on Wednesday. ALSO READ | IND vs AUS final: Weather & pitch report for Narendra Modi stadium ahead of India vs Australia World Cup clash Alcaraz came into the Finals struggling with form and injury but has warmed up as the tournament has progressed and his semi-final with Djokovic on Saturday promises to be a blockbuster. Djokovic, who has already secured the year-end top spot in the world rankings, is gunning for a record-breaking seventh Finals triumph after qualifying second in the Green Group. Medvedev, the 2020 Finals champion, will now face home hope Jannik Sinner, who became the first Italian ever to reach the semis on Thursday. The Russian has faced Sinner in four finals this season, sharing them with two wins each but prevailing in the most important, at the Miami Masters back in April.

ATP Finals: Carlos Alcaraz sets up Novak Djokovic tie in last four with win over Daniil Medvedev

Daniil Medvedev booked his place in the last four of the ATP Finals on Wednesday after beating Alexander Zverev 7-6 (9/7), 6-4, while Carlos Alcaraz cruised past troubled Andrey Rublev to get his campaign up and running.

World number three Medvedev had to win in straight sets to claim a spot in the semi-finals in Turin with a match to spare and he saw off big-hitting German Zverev in a stodgy Red Group encounter.

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He faces Carlos Alcaraz, a 7-5, 6-2&nbsp;winner earlier in the day, in his final match and has the world number two's last-four hopes in his hands.

"I hope that I feel well tomorrow and ready to fight because this tournament is tricky," said Medvedev.

"I'm into the semis but you want to keep the rhythm and against Carlos... if we play at night you don't want to finish 7-6 in the third (set) at midnight. I just hope I can show my best tennis."

Medvedev has a long-running rivalry with Zverev, the pair not getting on off-court, and he has now prevailed in five of their six matches this season.

One of those wins came on his way to his surprise triumph at the clay-court Italian Open back in May, one of five titles won by Medvedev this year.

The 2020 champion looks in fine form despite Wednesday's match being his 82nd this year and will cause serious trouble to whoever he faces in the next round.

Zverev, a two-time winner at the season-ending tournament, would have qualified from the Red Group with a win of either sort following Alcaraz's earlier victory.

The 26-year-old hit more aces and winners than Medvedev but still ended up on the wrong side of the result after throwing away his service game to save the match.

Zverev can still make it through though and in his final match will face a dejected Rublev, who is yet to win a set at the Pala Alpitour.

<h2>Alcaraz back in form</h2>

World number two Alcaraz has had problems with his form and fitness over the past few months and was staring at possible early elimination after losing his first match with Zverev.

But he looked in much better condition on Wednesday and comfortably claimed his first ever win in the season-ending tournament, snapping a three-match losing streak to boot.

"I'm really happy to show this level and realise that my level is still there, giving myself a chance in this tournament," Alcaraz told reporters.&nbsp;

"After this win, everything has changed in my mind."

The 20-year-old easily dealt with Russian Rublev who once again failed to make his mark in a big match with one of tennis' leading lights, and lost control of his emotions after giving away a service game at the start of the second set.

Being one set and a break down was too much for the 26-year-old who then repeatedly smashed his racket into his left knee, drawing blood, and soon after gave into his anger and promptly collapsed just as he did in his opening defeat to long-time friend Medvedev.

Afterwards Rublev brushed off the assault on his own limb as "nothing" but then admitted that he is struggling emotionally with what has been a hard end to the season.

On Thursday Jannik Sinner will try to become the first Italian to reach the semi-finals when he takes on Holger Rune in the tight Green Group.

Straight victories over now-retired Stefanos Tsitsipas and Novak Djokovic might not be enough to secure a spot in the next round.

And Sinner faces Rune who only had to play three games against Tsitsipas who dropped out with injury.

Sinner meanwhile prevailed on Tuesday in a three-hour thriller with Djokovic, who plays Tsitsipas' replacement Hubert Hurkacz with his last-four spot also still in the balance.

Daniil Medvedev booked his place in the last four of the ATP Finals on Wednesday after beating Alexander Zverev 7-6 (9/7), 6-4, while Carlos Alcaraz cruised past troubled Andrey Rublev to get his campaign up and running.

Daniil Medvedev booked his place in the last four of the ATP Finals on Wednesday after beating Alexander Zverev 7-6 (9/7), 6-4, while Carlos Alcaraz cruised past troubled Andrey Rublev to get his campaign up and running. World number three Medvedev had to win in straight sets to claim a spot in the semi-finals in Turin with a match to spare and he saw off big-hitting German Zverev in a stodgy Red Group encounter. Also Read: David Beckham backs youthful England to win Euro 2024 while in attendance for India-New Zealand World Cup SF He faces Carlos Alcaraz, a 7-5, 6-2 winner earlier in the day, in his final match and has the world number two's last-four hopes in his hands. "I hope that I feel well tomorrow and ready to fight because this tournament is tricky," said Medvedev. "I'm into the semis but you want to keep the rhythm and against Carlos... if we play at night you don't want to finish 7-6 in the third (set) at midnight. I just hope I can show my best tennis." Medvedev has a long-running rivalry with Zverev, the pair not getting on off-court, and he has now prevailed in five of their six matches this season. One of those wins came on his way to his surprise triumph at the clay-court Italian Open back in May, one of five titles won by Medvedev this year. The 2020 champion looks in fine form despite Wednesday's match being his 82nd this year and will cause serious trouble to whoever he faces in the next round. Zverev, a two-time winner at the season-ending tournament, would have qualified from the Red Group with a win of either sort following Alcaraz's earlier victory. The 26-year-old hit more aces and winners than Medvedev but still ended up on the wrong side of the result after throwing away his service game to save the match. Zverev can still make it through though and in his final match will face a dejected Rublev, who is yet to win a set at the Pala Alpitour. Alcaraz back in form World number two Alcaraz has had problems with his form and fitness over the past few months and was staring at possible early elimination after losing his first match with Zverev. But he looked in much better condition on Wednesday and comfortably claimed his first ever win in the season-ending tournament, snapping a three-match losing streak to boot. "I'm really happy to show this level and realise that my level is still there, giving myself a chance in this tournament," Alcaraz told reporters. "After this win, everything has changed in my mind." The 20-year-old easily dealt with Russian Rublev who once again failed to make his mark in a big match with one of tennis' leading lights, and lost control of his emotions after giving away a service game at the start of the second set. Being one set and a break down was too much for the 26-year-old who then repeatedly smashed his racket into his left knee, drawing blood, and soon after gave into his anger and promptly collapsed just as he did in his opening defeat to long-time friend Medvedev. Afterwards Rublev brushed off the assault on his own limb as "nothing" but then admitted that he is struggling emotionally with what has been a hard end to the season. On Thursday Jannik Sinner will try to become the first Italian to reach the semi-finals when he takes on Holger Rune in the tight Green Group. Straight victories over now-retired Stefanos Tsitsipas and Novak Djokovic might not be enough to secure a spot in the next round. And Sinner faces Rune who only had to play three games against Tsitsipas who dropped out with injury. Sinner meanwhile prevailed on Tuesday in a three-hour thriller with Djokovic, who plays Tsitsipas' replacement Hubert Hurkacz with his last-four spot also still in the balance.

Tennis: Daniil Medvedev enters ATP Finals semis, Carlos Alcaraz back in form

Top seeds Carlos Alcaraz and Daniil Medvedev made strong starts to the Shanghai Masters on Saturday, with both winning in straight sets to sail through to the third round. Italy's Jannik Sinner is also through after battling out an intense first set -- saving four set points -- against the United States' Marcos Giron.

Alcaraz dominated his first set against 73rd-ranked Gregoire Barrere, winning it 6-2. But the Frenchman regained ground in the second, sending 20-year-old Alcaraz scurrying from side to side of the court.

The world number two kept his cool and drew ahead towards the set's end, finishing it off at 7-5.

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"There were no ups and downs on my game," said Alcaraz when asked what had pleased him the most about his performance. "I just stayed at the same level all the time. (Barrere) increased his level, but... my level of focus was all the time the same."

Steady play may have been preoccupying the Spaniard after he said he went "out of his mind" during his defeat at the hands of Sinner at the China Open in Beijing this week.

The loss dealt a blow to his plan to close the gap on the absent Novak Djokovic at the top of the rankings with strong performances in China.

Asked whether he was more worried about meeting Sinner again or Medvedev later in the tournament, Alcaraz laughed.

"That's a tough one. Both of them," he said. &nbsp;"It's scary to face them... but I like that kind of challenge," he added.

"I want to play my best level to make the final and probably face them."

<h2>- Lucky butterfly -</h2>

Medvedev, the world number three and defending champion, beat Chile's Cristian Garin in straight sets 6-3, 6-3 to proceed breezily to the third round.

Garin put up a valiant defence, with several hard-fought rallies inducing gasps from the crowd, but ultimately the 98th-ranked player struggled with the Russian's relentless pace.

"(There's a) long tournament ahead, with a lot of strong players, starting from my next match," said Medvedev at the end. "But the goal for sure is to try and win this beautiful trophy one more time."

Medvedev won the 2019 title, but for the next three years the tournament was cancelled because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

"I'm definitely happy to be back in Shanghai," he said. "I honestly feel great and I want to stay here as long as possible."

Medvedev is popular with Chinese fans, a chemistry on display when the indoor match was interrupted briefly after a red-and-white butterfly distracted the Russian from serving.

The crowd giggled as he played up his surprise for comic effect, before carefully handing over the insect, which had settled on one of his tennis balls, to great applause.

"I'm a little bit, not scared of insects, but, like, I don't like when they go on me," Medvedev said at a press conference afterwards, though he added it was "perfect for me" upon hearing they were a symbol of good luck in China.

The Russian plays again on Sunday against 26th-ranked Sebastian Korda, who beat him at their last meeting.

"He was very dominant, in a way, and that's how he plays, so it's going to be interesting for me," said Medvedev.

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Top seeds Carlos Alcaraz and Daniil Medvedev made strong starts to the Shanghai Masters on Saturday, with both winning in straight sets to sail through to the third round.

Top seeds Carlos Alcaraz and Daniil Medvedev made strong starts to the Shanghai Masters on Saturday, with both winning in straight sets to sail through to the third round. Italy's Jannik Sinner is also through after battling out an intense first set -- saving four set points -- against the United States' Marcos Giron. Alcaraz dominated his first set against 73rd-ranked Gregoire Barrere, winning it 6-2. But the Frenchman regained ground in the second, sending 20-year-old Alcaraz scurrying from side to side of the court. The world number two kept his cool and drew ahead towards the set's end, finishing it off at 7-5. ALSO READ: No Hollywood ending for Lionel Messi in his maiden MLS season as Inter Miami crash out of playoffs race "There were no ups and downs on my game," said Alcaraz when asked what had pleased him the most about his performance. "I just stayed at the same level all the time. (Barrere) increased his level, but... my level of focus was all the time the same." Steady play may have been preoccupying the Spaniard after he said he went "out of his mind" during his defeat at the hands of Sinner at the China Open in Beijing this week. The loss dealt a blow to his plan to close the gap on the absent Novak Djokovic at the top of the rankings with strong performances in China. Asked whether he was more worried about meeting Sinner again or Medvedev later in the tournament, Alcaraz laughed. "That's a tough one. Both of them," he said. "It's scary to face them... but I like that kind of challenge," he added. "I want to play my best level to make the final and probably face them." - Lucky butterfly - Medvedev, the world number three and defending champion, beat Chile's Cristian Garin in straight sets 6-3, 6-3 to proceed breezily to the third round. Garin put up a valiant defence, with several hard-fought rallies inducing gasps from the crowd, but ultimately the 98th-ranked player struggled with the Russian's relentless pace. "(There's a) long tournament ahead, with a lot of strong players, starting from my next match," said Medvedev at the end. "But the goal for sure is to try and win this beautiful trophy one more time." Medvedev won the 2019 title, but for the next three years the tournament was cancelled because of the Covid-19 pandemic. "I'm definitely happy to be back in Shanghai," he said. "I honestly feel great and I want to stay here as long as possible." Medvedev is popular with Chinese fans, a chemistry on display when the indoor match was interrupted briefly after a red-and-white butterfly distracted the Russian from serving. The crowd giggled as he played up his surprise for comic effect, before carefully handing over the insect, which had settled on one of his tennis balls, to great applause. "I'm a little bit, not scared of insects, but, like, I don't like when they go on me," Medvedev said at a press conference afterwards, though he added it was "perfect for me" upon hearing they were a symbol of good luck in China. The Russian plays again on Sunday against 26th-ranked Sebastian Korda, who beat him at their last meeting. "He was very dominant, in a way, and that's how he plays, so it's going to be interesting for me," said Medvedev. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Shanghai Masters 2023: Top seeds Carlos Alcaraz and Daniil Medvedev make dominant starts

World number three Daniil Medvedev booked his place in the China Open men's semi-finals with a 6-4, 3-6, 6-1 victory over France's Ugo Humbert in Beijing on Monday. An error-strewn first set saw a combined five breaks of serve but Medvedev edged ahead in the ninth game and finished it off with an ace.

Both men were more consistent in set two until the Russian, at deuce, hit back-to-back double faults to hand the crucial break to Humbert. But Medvedev finally tightened up in the decider, notching two quickfire breaks before seeing out the match on his serve.

The 27-year-old will battle it out with Germany's Alexander Zverev for a place in the final. Medvedev again attributed the see-saw victory to the match balls, which he has said fluff up too quickly and can lead to lengthy rallies.

"It's very slow," he told a post-match news conference. "(On) any other normal hard court with normal balls, no chance I win the match like this. No chance I would lose my serve so much," he said. "It's great that I managed to still find, in this tough match, these moments of consistency -- which was enough to win."

Zverev, ranked number 10, edged a tight encounter with Chilean Nicolas Jarry 6-1, 6-7 (5/7), 6-3. World number two and tournament favourite Carlos Alcaraz is due to play his quarter-final against Casper Ruud on Monday evening.

Top-ranked men's player Novak Djokovic is not playing the China tournaments this season.

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<h2>- Swiatek, Gauff progress -</h2>

In the first round of the women's draw, world number two Iga Swiatek defeated Spain's Sara Sorribes Tormo in straight sets. The Pole, who recently relinquished her hold on the number-one spot to Aryna Sabalenka, enjoyed considerable success at the net on her way to a 6-4, 6-3 victory.

Swiatek will play France's Varvara Gracheva in the second round. "I feel like I was pretty patient. You have to be patient with her because she's running for every ball," the 22-year-old said after the match. "I kind of wanted to just be solid and be intensive but not make too many mistakes with risking," she said. "I'm pretty happy I could balance that. It just worked, so I'm happy."

Teenage star Coco Gauff survived a minor scare on the way to a 7-5, 6-3 defeat of Russia's Ekaterina Alexandrova. The US Open champion was 4-0 up but allowed Alexandrova to level before ripping a backhand winner down the line to break serve and take the first set.

She fared better in the second, picking up a break midway through and seeing out the match with ease. World number seven Ons Jabeur beat American Ashlyn Krueger 6-3, 6-4 to set up a second-round match against Ukraine's Marta Kostyuk.

Sabalenka knocked out former Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin on Sunday to seal her spot in the second round. The China Open is taking place for the first time since 2019 after Beijing abandoned its long-standing zero-Covid policy.

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World number three Daniil Medvedev booked his place in the China Open men's semi-finals with a 6-4, 3-6, 6-1 victory over France's Ugo Humbert in Beijing on Monday.

World number three Daniil Medvedev booked his place in the China Open men's semi-finals with a 6-4, 3-6, 6-1 victory over France's Ugo Humbert in Beijing on Monday. An error-strewn first set saw a combined five breaks of serve but Medvedev edged ahead in the ninth game and finished it off with an ace. Both men were more consistent in set two until the Russian, at deuce, hit back-to-back double faults to hand the crucial break to Humbert. But Medvedev finally tightened up in the decider, notching two quickfire breaks before seeing out the match on his serve. The 27-year-old will battle it out with Germany's Alexander Zverev for a place in the final. Medvedev again attributed the see-saw victory to the match balls, which he has said fluff up too quickly and can lead to lengthy rallies. "It's very slow," he told a post-match news conference. "(On) any other normal hard court with normal balls, no chance I win the match like this. No chance I would lose my serve so much," he said. "It's great that I managed to still find, in this tough match, these moments of consistency -- which was enough to win." Zverev, ranked number 10, edged a tight encounter with Chilean Nicolas Jarry 6-1, 6-7 (5/7), 6-3. World number two and tournament favourite Carlos Alcaraz is due to play his quarter-final against Casper Ruud on Monday evening. Top-ranked men's player Novak Djokovic is not playing the China tournaments this season. Also read: Rugby World Cup 2023: South Africa wing Makazole Mapimpi ruled out with a fractured eye socket - Swiatek, Gauff progress - In the first round of the women's draw, world number two Iga Swiatek defeated Spain's Sara Sorribes Tormo in straight sets. The Pole, who recently relinquished her hold on the number-one spot to Aryna Sabalenka, enjoyed considerable success at the net on her way to a 6-4, 6-3 victory. Swiatek will play France's Varvara Gracheva in the second round. "I feel like I was pretty patient. You have to be patient with her because she's running for every ball," the 22-year-old said after the match. "I kind of wanted to just be solid and be intensive but not make too many mistakes with risking," she said. "I'm pretty happy I could balance that. It just worked, so I'm happy." Teenage star Coco Gauff survived a minor scare on the way to a 7-5, 6-3 defeat of Russia's Ekaterina Alexandrova. The US Open champion was 4-0 up but allowed Alexandrova to level before ripping a backhand winner down the line to break serve and take the first set. She fared better in the second, picking up a break midway through and seeing out the match with ease. World number seven Ons Jabeur beat American Ashlyn Krueger 6-3, 6-4 to set up a second-round match against Ukraine's Marta Kostyuk. Sabalenka knocked out former Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin on Sunday to seal her spot in the second round. The China Open is taking place for the first time since 2019 after Beijing abandoned its long-standing zero-Covid policy. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tennis: World number three Daniil Medvedev, Iga Swiatek both through at China Open

Novak Djokovic beat Daniil Medvedev in the 2023 US Open Final on September 11 to win his record-equalling 24th grand slam title. The Serb won the game in straight sets 6-3, 7-6(5), 6-3 for the marquee win. Medvedev wasn't satisfied with the results as expected and asked Djokovic 'when is he planning to slow down' at the trophy ceremony.

The 36-year-old Serb won three of the four grand slams this year except the Wimbledon 2023 which was won by Spain's Carlos Alcaraz. Nonetheless, Medvedev's question seems legit as Djokovic isn't showing signs of slowing down anytime soon.

“First of all, Novak, I want to ask: What are you still doing here? Come on,” Medvedev said.

Also Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovics-emotional-tribute-to-kobe-bryant-after-winning-record-equalling-24th-grand-slam-title-watch-634721">Novak Djokovic's EMOTIONAL tribute to Kobe Bryant after winning record-equalling 24th grand slam title</a>

“I mean, jokes apart, I mean, what is it? Our third final? Maybe not the last, hope so because you probably gonna be in many more.

“I don’t know when you are planning to slow down a little bit but congrats to you and your team.

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With Novak being the oldest Grand Slam men's singles champion, Daniil Medvedev had a question. 
 
"I wanna ask Novak what are you still doing here?" <a href="https://t.co/T2sB2dWHjV">pic.twitter.com/T2sB2dWHjV</a>
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“I was here two years ago when I won and I was like what a great anniversary gift for my wife and stuff like this. It’s funny dates usually change but today it is Sunday again is the anniversary. So I thought like come on do it one more time but yeah didn’t happen,” he said.

Medvedev, however, went on to praise the tennis legend as well and said that 'nothing has changed about Djokovic when he met me when I was no. 500 in the world to the point where he has won 24 grand slam titles.'

“I played 5 finals against them (Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic) &amp; only won 1.. he pushes me to be better.. we met when I was 500 in the world.

“He was super kind to me. He treated me as a normal person. He still does. Nothing changed. 24 Grand Slams, nothing changed. I think that’s something great about a person,” said Medvedev. 
&nbsp;

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Novak Djokovic beat Daniil Medvedev in the 2023 US Open Final on September 11 to win his record-equalling 24th grand slam title. The Serb won the game in straight sets 6-3, 7-6(5), 6-3 for the marquee win.

Novak Djokovic beat Daniil Medvedev in the 2023 US Open Final on September 11 to win his record-equalling 24th grand slam title. The Serb won the game in straight sets 6-3, 7-6(5), 6-3 for the marquee win. Medvedev wasn't satisfied with the results as expected and asked Djokovic 'when is he planning to slow down' at the trophy ceremony. The 36-year-old Serb won three of the four grand slams this year except the Wimbledon 2023 which was won by Spain's Carlos Alcaraz. Nonetheless, Medvedev's question seems legit as Djokovic isn't showing signs of slowing down anytime soon. “First of all, Novak, I want to ask: What are you still doing here? Come on,” Medvedev said. Also Watch: Novak Djokovic's EMOTIONAL tribute to Kobe Bryant after winning record-equalling 24th grand slam title “I mean, jokes apart, I mean, what is it? Our third final? Maybe not the last, hope so because you probably gonna be in many more. “I don’t know when you are planning to slow down a little bit but congrats to you and your team. With Novak being the oldest Grand Slam men's singles champion, Daniil Medvedev had a question. "I wanna ask Novak what are you still doing here?" pic.twitter.com/T2sB2dWHjV — US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 11, 2023 × “I was here two years ago when I won and I was like what a great anniversary gift for my wife and stuff like this. It’s funny dates usually change but today it is Sunday again is the anniversary. So I thought like come on do it one more time but yeah didn’t happen,” he said. Medvedev, however, went on to praise the tennis legend as well and said that 'nothing has changed about Djokovic when he met me when I was no. 500 in the world to the point where he has won 24 grand slam titles.' “I played 5 finals against them (Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic) & only won 1.. he pushes me to be better.. we met when I was 500 in the world. “He was super kind to me. He treated me as a normal person. He still does. Nothing changed. 24 Grand Slams, nothing changed. I think that’s something great about a person,” said Medvedev. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Daniil Medvedev asks US Open winner Novak Djokovic, 'What are you still doing here' at trophy ceremony - WATCH

Novak Djokovic would not let Daniil Medvedev spoil his date with history a second time battling past the Russian 6-3 7-6(5) 6-3 to win the US&nbsp;Open on Sunday and equal Margaret Court's record haul of 24 Grand Slams.

The victory, his fourth in 10 Flushing Meadows finals, capped another remarkable Grand Slam campaign for Djokovic with wins at the Australian, French and US&nbsp;Opens and a return to the top of the world rankings when they are updated on Monday.

The 36-year-old Serb becomes the oldest US&nbsp;Open men’s winner in the Open Era and the first to win three Grand Slam events in a season for the fourth time.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spains-carlos-alcaraz-pulls-out-of-davis-cup-following-us-open-semis-exit-634561">Spain's Carlos Alcaraz pulls out of Davis Cup following US Open semis exit</a>

"It obviously means the world to me," said Djokovic about his 24th Slam. "I'm really living my childhood dream.

"To make the history of this sport is something truly remarkable, it's hard to describe the words.

"I had the childhood dream when I was 7, 8, I wanted to become the best player in the world."

And it is a dream that continues to come true. Djokovic has already won more Grand Slams than any man and now shares the overall record with Court.

After clinching his historic title Djokovic threw his racquet in the air and dropped to his knees as the capacity crowd roared.

He would pick himself up and find his young daughter courtside for an emotional hug before going back to the bench where he pulled out a T-shirt with "Mamba Forever" on the front and the number 24 on the back.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-coco-gauff-wins-us-open-for-maiden-grand-slam-title-634370">Tennis: Coco Gauff wins US Open for maiden grand slam title</a>

The shirt was a tribute to both his achievement and late friend Los Angeles Lakers great Kobe Bryant, who wore the number throughout much of his all-star career before dying in a helicopter crash.

"I thought of doing this T-shirt, eventually, if I get the chance to win the tournament," said Djokovic. "Kobe was a close friend, we chatted a lot about the winner's mentality.

"When I was struggling with injury he was one of the people I relied on the most. He was always there for any kind of counsel, advice.

"I thought 24 is the jersey that he wore when he became a legend of Lakers and world basketball."

While Djokovic and Medvedev are intriguing figures, neither has been fully embraced by the New York crowds.

Until the end there was little of the electricity that crackled through Arthur Ashe during the women's final on Saturday, with no clear support for either player from an attentive but subdued audience.

As the match started Djokovic walked out on to court and stared across the net at Medvedev the man once again standing between him and history just as he had two years ago.

The last time the two clashed at the U.S. Open was in the 2021 final, when the Russian captured his only major and denied the Serb a rare calendar Grand Slam.

While Djokovic did not speak of revenge on the road to the final the Serb is known to hold a grudge and only referenced that loss as a learning experience.

Lesson learned.

As expected in a contest featuring the sport's two premier hardcourt players, almost every point was contested with long rallies as both men pounded away at each other from the baseline.

Djokovic came out playing with purpose and applied pressure right away breaking the third seed at the first opportunity on way to a 3-0 lead.

That would be the only break Djokovic would need against a surprisingly flat Medvedev who could not manufacture a single break chance in the first set.

During a marathon one hour and 44 minute, lung-bursting second set Medvedev would find life forcing a tiring Djokovic into long grinding point, after grinding point.

But the tireless Russian's hard work would pay no dividends unable to convert any of his few break chances including one at 6-5 that would have given him the set.

Medvedev charged in front 3-1 of the tie-break but again could not land the knockout blow as Djokovic came off the ropes to take it 7-5 and a 2-0 lead.

If there is one thing Djokovic possesses it is a killer instinct and the Serb wasted no time striking breaking Medvedev to go up 3-1 in the third.

A defiant Medvedev answered with his first and only break of the match but it was not enough with Djokovic hitting right back with another break then holding serve the rest of way to clinch the title.

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Novak Djokovic would not let Daniil Medvedev spoil his date with history a second time battling past the Russian 6-3 7-6(5) 6-3 to win the US Open on Sunday and equal Margaret Court's record haul of 24 Grand Slams.

Novak Djokovic would not let Daniil Medvedev spoil his date with history a second time battling past the Russian 6-3 7-6(5) 6-3 to win the US Open on Sunday and equal Margaret Court's record haul of 24 Grand Slams. The victory, his fourth in 10 Flushing Meadows finals, capped another remarkable Grand Slam campaign for Djokovic with wins at the Australian, French and US Opens and a return to the top of the world rankings when they are updated on Monday. The 36-year-old Serb becomes the oldest US Open men’s winner in the Open Era and the first to win three Grand Slam events in a season for the fourth time. Also read | Spain's Carlos Alcaraz pulls out of Davis Cup following US Open semis exit "It obviously means the world to me," said Djokovic about his 24th Slam. "I'm really living my childhood dream. "To make the history of this sport is something truly remarkable, it's hard to describe the words. "I had the childhood dream when I was 7, 8, I wanted to become the best player in the world." And it is a dream that continues to come true. Djokovic has already won more Grand Slams than any man and now shares the overall record with Court. After clinching his historic title Djokovic threw his racquet in the air and dropped to his knees as the capacity crowd roared. He would pick himself up and find his young daughter courtside for an emotional hug before going back to the bench where he pulled out a T-shirt with "Mamba Forever" on the front and the number 24 on the back. Also read | Tennis: Coco Gauff wins US Open for maiden grand slam title The shirt was a tribute to both his achievement and late friend Los Angeles Lakers great Kobe Bryant, who wore the number throughout much of his all-star career before dying in a helicopter crash. "I thought of doing this T-shirt, eventually, if I get the chance to win the tournament," said Djokovic. "Kobe was a close friend, we chatted a lot about the winner's mentality. "When I was struggling with injury he was one of the people I relied on the most. He was always there for any kind of counsel, advice. "I thought 24 is the jersey that he wore when he became a legend of Lakers and world basketball." While Djokovic and Medvedev are intriguing figures, neither has been fully embraced by the New York crowds. Until the end there was little of the electricity that crackled through Arthur Ashe during the women's final on Saturday, with no clear support for either player from an attentive but subdued audience. As the match started Djokovic walked out on to court and stared across the net at Medvedev the man once again standing between him and history just as he had two years ago. The last time the two clashed at the U.S. Open was in the 2021 final, when the Russian captured his only major and denied the Serb a rare calendar Grand Slam. While Djokovic did not speak of revenge on the road to the final the Serb is known to hold a grudge and only referenced that loss as a learning experience. Lesson learned. As expected in a contest featuring the sport's two premier hardcourt players, almost every point was contested with long rallies as both men pounded away at each other from the baseline. Djokovic came out playing with purpose and applied pressure right away breaking the third seed at the first opportunity on way to a 3-0 lead. That would be the only break Djokovic would need against a surprisingly flat Medvedev who could not manufacture a single break chance in the first set. During a marathon one hour and 44 minute, lung-bursting second set Medvedev would find life forcing a tiring Djokovic into long grinding point, after grinding point. But the tireless Russian's hard work would pay no dividends unable to convert any of his few break chances including one at 6-5 that would have given him the set. Medvedev charged in front 3-1 of the tie-break but again could not land the knockout blow as Djokovic came off the ropes to take it 7-5 and a 2-0 lead. If there is one thing Djokovic possesses it is a killer instinct and the Serb wasted no time striking breaking Medvedev to go up 3-1 in the third. A defiant Medvedev answered with his first and only break of the match but it was not enough with Djokovic hitting right back with another break then holding serve the rest of way to clinch the title. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Novak Djokovic wins US Open for record equalling 24th Grand Slam

In PICS – Novak Djokovic wins US Open 2023, beats Daniil Medvedev to lift record 24th Grand Slam title

As Novak Djokovic again stands on the verge of history at the US Open, he has a score to settle with Daniil Medvedev after his loss to the Russian in the 2021 final cost him a calendar Grand Slam.&nbsp;

Medvedev defeated Djokovic in straight sets two years ago to prevent the Serbian from becoming the first man to win all four Grand Slams in the same year since Australian great Rod Laver in 1969.

On Sunday the 36-year-old Djokovic goes in search of a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam singles title against Medvedev, who unseated reigning champion Carlos Alcaraz in a gripping semi-final.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-pakistan-name-playing-xi-for-super-four-match-vs-india-replaces-this-player-from-group-stage-clash-634230">Asia Cup: Pakistan name Playing XI for Super Four match vs India</a>

Djokovic will return to world number one next week, but he is wary of being swept up by the significance of the occasion in New York.

"Every time in a Grand Slam final it's another shot for history, you know, and I'm aware of it, and of course I'm very proud of it," said Djokovic.

"But again, I don't have much time nor do I allow myself to reflect on these things or think about the history too much in this sense.

"Because when I did that in the past, like, '21 finals here I was maybe overwhelmed with the occasion and the opportunity and I underperformed.

"So I don't want this to happen again."

Djokovic fell agonisingly short of matching Margaret Court's all-time mark for most Grand Slam singles titles when he lost to Alcaraz in five sets in the Wimbledon final in July.

That remains his only defeat at the majors since a quarter-final loss to Rafael Nadal at the 2022 French Open. He is 33-1 at the Slams since then.

Djokovic is the first man in the Open era to play in 10 finals at two different Grand Slams. He has a perfect record at the Australian Open, but New York is the site of some of his biggest disappointments.

<h2>Age is just a number</h2>

He is just 3-6 in US Open finals but could become its oldest men's champion in the modern era, surpassing Australia's Ken Rosewall who was 35 when he won in 1970.&nbsp;

"Physically I have been as fit or as prepared, as strong as, I don't want to say as ever, but, I mean, as good as I have been in years and years," said Djokovic, who swept past 20-year-old Ben Shelton in the last four.

"Age is just a number, that phrase is resonating at the moment with me. And, you know, I don't want to even consider leaving tennis or thinking about an end if I'm still at the top of the game.

"I just don't see a reason for that."

Medvedev avenged his Wimbledon semi-final whipping by Alcaraz to reach his fifth Grand Slam final.

The 27-year-old Russian lost a five-set classic to Rafael Nadal here in 2019. He was also beaten by Djokovic in Melbourne two years later before going down to Nadal at the following Australian Open.

"If I lose on Sunday, the tournament, it's like it's a good tournament but I'm going to be hell of a disappointed. That's how tennis is," said Medvedev.

Djokovic leads the head-to-head 9-5 but Medvedev knows his rival wants to set the record straight after the 2021 final defeat which left him in tears.

"I think the only way I can use it is, as I say, thinking that Novak, when he loses, he's never the same after," said Medvedev.

"So he's different. It's just a different mentality. That's why he has 23 Grand Slams, whatever, Masters 1000s, weeks at number one."&nbsp;

"So I have to use it knowing that he's going to be 10 times better than he was that day. And I have to be, if I want to still beat him, 10 times better than I was that day."

Medvedev has already torn up the script once this tournament with a "12 out of 10" performance against Alcaraz. He may need another off-the-charts display to deny Djokovic one more time.

"Novak is going to be his best version on Sunday, and I have to be the best-ever version of myself if I want to try to beat him."

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As Novak Djokovic again stands on the verge of history at the US Open, he has a score to settle with Daniil Medvedev after his loss to the Russian in the 2021 final cost him a calendar Grand Slam.

As Novak Djokovic again stands on the verge of history at the US Open, he has a score to settle with Daniil Medvedev after his loss to the Russian in the 2021 final cost him a calendar Grand Slam. Medvedev defeated Djokovic in straight sets two years ago to prevent the Serbian from becoming the first man to win all four Grand Slams in the same year since Australian great Rod Laver in 1969. On Sunday the 36-year-old Djokovic goes in search of a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam singles title against Medvedev, who unseated reigning champion Carlos Alcaraz in a gripping semi-final. Also Read: Asia Cup: Pakistan name Playing XI for Super Four match vs India Djokovic will return to world number one next week, but he is wary of being swept up by the significance of the occasion in New York. "Every time in a Grand Slam final it's another shot for history, you know, and I'm aware of it, and of course I'm very proud of it," said Djokovic. "But again, I don't have much time nor do I allow myself to reflect on these things or think about the history too much in this sense. "Because when I did that in the past, like, '21 finals here I was maybe overwhelmed with the occasion and the opportunity and I underperformed. "So I don't want this to happen again." Djokovic fell agonisingly short of matching Margaret Court's all-time mark for most Grand Slam singles titles when he lost to Alcaraz in five sets in the Wimbledon final in July. That remains his only defeat at the majors since a quarter-final loss to Rafael Nadal at the 2022 French Open. He is 33-1 at the Slams since then. Djokovic is the first man in the Open era to play in 10 finals at two different Grand Slams. He has a perfect record at the Australian Open, but New York is the site of some of his biggest disappointments. Age is just a number He is just 3-6 in US Open finals but could become its oldest men's champion in the modern era, surpassing Australia's Ken Rosewall who was 35 when he won in 1970. "Physically I have been as fit or as prepared, as strong as, I don't want to say as ever, but, I mean, as good as I have been in years and years," said Djokovic, who swept past 20-year-old Ben Shelton in the last four. "Age is just a number, that phrase is resonating at the moment with me. And, you know, I don't want to even consider leaving tennis or thinking about an end if I'm still at the top of the game. "I just don't see a reason for that." Medvedev avenged his Wimbledon semi-final whipping by Alcaraz to reach his fifth Grand Slam final. The 27-year-old Russian lost a five-set classic to Rafael Nadal here in 2019. He was also beaten by Djokovic in Melbourne two years later before going down to Nadal at the following Australian Open. "If I lose on Sunday, the tournament, it's like it's a good tournament but I'm going to be hell of a disappointed. That's how tennis is," said Medvedev. Djokovic leads the head-to-head 9-5 but Medvedev knows his rival wants to set the record straight after the 2021 final defeat which left him in tears. "I think the only way I can use it is, as I say, thinking that Novak, when he loses, he's never the same after," said Medvedev. "So he's different. It's just a different mentality. That's why he has 23 Grand Slams, whatever, Masters 1000s, weeks at number one." "So I have to use it knowing that he's going to be 10 times better than he was that day. And I have to be, if I want to still beat him, 10 times better than I was that day." Medvedev has already torn up the script once this tournament with a "12 out of 10" performance against Alcaraz. He may need another off-the-charts display to deny Djokovic one more time. "Novak is going to be his best version on Sunday, and I have to be the best-ever version of myself if I want to try to beat him." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tennis: Novak Djokovic chases record-equalling 24th grand slam title in US Open final

Novak Djokovic used his experience to overcome American Ben Shelton as the Serbian battled past his 20-year-old challenger 6-3 6-2 7-6(4) to reach his 10th U.S. Open final on Arthur Ashe Stadium on Friday.

Shelton had flummoxed opponents in New York with his big serve, but the 36-year-old second seed Djokovic was able to harness his experience to neutralise a third-set surge from the young American.

"Obviously I knew that he's got a lot of firepower. He has an amazing pop on the serve, he's just so dynamic and very unpredictable what comes next," said Djokovic. "I just had to stay there mentally, present, calm, and focus on the game plan."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-open-daniil-medvedev-upsets-defending-champion-carlos-alcaraz-in-enthralling-semis-to-face-novak-in-final-633913">US Open: Daniil Medvedev upsets defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in enthralling semis, to face Novak in final</a>

Already assured of returning to the top of the world rankings when they are updated after the tournament, Djokovic will continue the hunt for his 24th Grand Slam title to match Margaret Court's all-time singles record on Sunday.

Shelton handed Djokovic a break in the sixth game of the first set with a series of unforced errors, and the unseeded American was unable to convert his own break point chance in the ninth.

In the second set, Shelton's best weapon failed him as he helped Djokovic secure a break with a double fault in the fifth game and he dropped his racquet in frustration as he sent a forehand out to hand the Serb another break in the seventh.

Djokovic was competing in his 47th major semi-final while Shelton was appearing in his first. The difference in experience was apparent as the second seed broke Shelton with a fine forehand winner in the opening game of the third set.

But the American came to life late as he fended off a break point with a 143-mph (230-kph) ace in the fifth game to a chorus of cheers from the home crowd.

Playing in only his seventh U.S. Open singles match, Shelton triumphed in a 30-shot rally before converting a break point in the eighth game, humbling Djokovic, who was appearing in his 100th singles match at the hardcourt major.

Djokovic broke again in the 11th game but could not stop the set from going into a tiebreak as he swatted one into the net to allow Shelton to break back in the 12th game.

The Serb forced Shelton into a forehand error on match point and made a not-so-subtle jab at the American's favoured celebration as he mimed answering - and hanging up - the telephone while walking to the net.

"At 36, every Grand Slam final, yeah, I don't know, could be the last one," Djokovic told reporters. "I probably value these occasions and opportunities to win another slam as more than I have maybe 10 years ago, because 10 years ago I felt like, 'Hey, I still have quite a few years ahead of me'. I don't know how many I have ahead of me now."

Shelton said he was taking lessons away from the tournament in what he can achieve.

"I learned a lot about myself these two weeks, knowing how, you know, deep I can go, how deep I can dig," said Shelton. "I kind of found a place where I can operate and still be calm and still be clear-minded but be a fierce competitor."

The match was played under increased security after a bizarre incident on Thursday night, in which a protester glued his feet to the floor of Arthur Ashe Stadium, forcing a nearly one-hour stoppage of a semi-final match between American Coco Gauff and Czech Karolina Muchova.

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Novak Djokovic used his experience to overcome American Ben Shelton as the Serbian battled past his 20-year-old challenger 6-3 6-2 7-6(4) to reach his 10th U.S. Open final on Arthur Ashe Stadium on Friday.

Novak Djokovic used his experience to overcome American Ben Shelton as the Serbian battled past his 20-year-old challenger 6-3 6-2 7-6(4) to reach his 10th U.S. Open final on Arthur Ashe Stadium on Friday. Shelton had flummoxed opponents in New York with his big serve, but the 36-year-old second seed Djokovic was able to harness his experience to neutralise a third-set surge from the young American. "Obviously I knew that he's got a lot of firepower. He has an amazing pop on the serve, he's just so dynamic and very unpredictable what comes next," said Djokovic. "I just had to stay there mentally, present, calm, and focus on the game plan." ALSO READ: US Open: Daniil Medvedev upsets defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in enthralling semis, to face Novak in final Already assured of returning to the top of the world rankings when they are updated after the tournament, Djokovic will continue the hunt for his 24th Grand Slam title to match Margaret Court's all-time singles record on Sunday. Shelton handed Djokovic a break in the sixth game of the first set with a series of unforced errors, and the unseeded American was unable to convert his own break point chance in the ninth. In the second set, Shelton's best weapon failed him as he helped Djokovic secure a break with a double fault in the fifth game and he dropped his racquet in frustration as he sent a forehand out to hand the Serb another break in the seventh. Djokovic was competing in his 47th major semi-final while Shelton was appearing in his first. The difference in experience was apparent as the second seed broke Shelton with a fine forehand winner in the opening game of the third set. But the American came to life late as he fended off a break point with a 143-mph (230-kph) ace in the fifth game to a chorus of cheers from the home crowd. Playing in only his seventh U.S. Open singles match, Shelton triumphed in a 30-shot rally before converting a break point in the eighth game, humbling Djokovic, who was appearing in his 100th singles match at the hardcourt major. Djokovic broke again in the 11th game but could not stop the set from going into a tiebreak as he swatted one into the net to allow Shelton to break back in the 12th game. The Serb forced Shelton into a forehand error on match point and made a not-so-subtle jab at the American's favoured celebration as he mimed answering - and hanging up - the telephone while walking to the net. "At 36, every Grand Slam final, yeah, I don't know, could be the last one," Djokovic told reporters. "I probably value these occasions and opportunities to win another slam as more than I have maybe 10 years ago, because 10 years ago I felt like, 'Hey, I still have quite a few years ahead of me'. I don't know how many I have ahead of me now." Shelton said he was taking lessons away from the tournament in what he can achieve. "I learned a lot about myself these two weeks, knowing how, you know, deep I can go, how deep I can dig," said Shelton. "I kind of found a place where I can operate and still be calm and still be clear-minded but be a fierce competitor." The match was played under increased security after a bizarre incident on Thursday night, in which a protester glued his feet to the floor of Arthur Ashe Stadium, forcing a nearly one-hour stoppage of a semi-final match between American Coco Gauff and Czech Karolina Muchova. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US Open: Novak Djokovic punches final's ticket with straight set win over hometown boy Ben Shelton in semis

Daniil Medvedev upset defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in an enthralling semi-final duel to reach the US Open final on Friday. Russian third seed Medvedev set up a rematch of his 2021 victory over Novak Djokovic after ousting Alcaraz 7-6 (7/3), 6-1, 3-6, 6-3 in a gripping 3hr 19min battle on the Arthur Ashe Stadium court.

Spanish star Alcaraz had been hoping to become the first man to successfully defend the US Open since Roger Federer in 2008, eyeing a blockbuster final against 23-time Grand Slam singles champion Djokovic on Sunday.

But Medvedev -- who shattered Djokovic's dream of a calendar year Grand Slam two years ago by beating the Serb in straight sets in the final in New York -- once again tore up the script.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl-detroit-lions-edge-super-bowl-champion-kansas-city-chiefs-21-20-in-season-opener-633811">NFL: Detroit Lions edge Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs 21-20 in season opener</a>

The 27-year-old from Moscow had said before Friday's semi-final he would have to deliver an "11 out of 10" performance to beat Alcaraz, who had defeated the Russian comfortably in two previous meetings this season.

Medvedev was to prove as good as his word over the course of a high-quality duel that is surely a contender for match of the tournament.

Medvedev completed victory in the ninth game of a nail-biting fourth set, smashing a desperate return from Alcaraz to convert his fourth match point.

"Amazing, especially beating someone like Carlos," Medvedev said. "Before the match for sure I had a lot of doubts after losing easily to him twice this year.

"I said I needed to play 11 out of 10 - I played 12 out of 10, except for the third set."

Medvedev had grabbed the early initiative by taking the first set on a tie-break after neither player gave up any break point opportunities in the opening frame.

While Alcaraz looked instantly in the groove, mixing his thunderous groundstrokes with several of his signature drop shots, it was Medvedev who prevailed in the tie-break.

Buoyed by that early breakthrough, Medvedev raced away with the second set, breaking Alcaraz in the second game for a 2-0 lead and then clinching another break in the sixth game with a jaw-dropping running backhand winner down the line that fizzed past his opponent.

That left Medvedev 5-1 up and he duly served out comfortably to take a two-set lead.

Alcaraz hit back to claim the third set when Medvedev sent a return into the net, which took it into the fourth set.

The decisive break came in the sixth game, Medvedev taking a 4-2 lead with another glorious backhand return of serve that Alcaraz was unable to deal with.

Both men then held serve to leave Medvedev serving for the match at 5-3.

Alcaraz bravely saved three match points but Medvedev unleashed a corking serve on the fourth match point that the Spaniard could only manage a looping return to.

Medvedev hammered a forehand into the corner and although Alcaraz was able to get it back, Medvedev was waiting at the net to smash an unstoppable winner.

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Daniil Medvedev upset defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in an enthralling semi-final duel to reach the US Open final on Friday. Russian third seed Medvedev set up a rematch of his 2021 victory over Novak Djokovic after ousting Alcaraz 7-6 (7/3), 6-1, 3-6, 6-3 in a gripping 3hr 19min battle on the Arthur Ashe Stadium court.

Daniil Medvedev upset defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in an enthralling semi-final duel to reach the US Open final on Friday. Russian third seed Medvedev set up a rematch of his 2021 victory over Novak Djokovic after ousting Alcaraz 7-6 (7/3), 6-1, 3-6, 6-3 in a gripping 3hr 19min battle on the Arthur Ashe Stadium court. Spanish star Alcaraz had been hoping to become the first man to successfully defend the US Open since Roger Federer in 2008, eyeing a blockbuster final against 23-time Grand Slam singles champion Djokovic on Sunday. But Medvedev -- who shattered Djokovic's dream of a calendar year Grand Slam two years ago by beating the Serb in straight sets in the final in New York -- once again tore up the script. ALSO READ: NFL: Detroit Lions edge Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs 21-20 in season opener The 27-year-old from Moscow had said before Friday's semi-final he would have to deliver an "11 out of 10" performance to beat Alcaraz, who had defeated the Russian comfortably in two previous meetings this season. Medvedev was to prove as good as his word over the course of a high-quality duel that is surely a contender for match of the tournament. Medvedev completed victory in the ninth game of a nail-biting fourth set, smashing a desperate return from Alcaraz to convert his fourth match point. "Amazing, especially beating someone like Carlos," Medvedev said. "Before the match for sure I had a lot of doubts after losing easily to him twice this year. "I said I needed to play 11 out of 10 - I played 12 out of 10, except for the third set." Medvedev had grabbed the early initiative by taking the first set on a tie-break after neither player gave up any break point opportunities in the opening frame. While Alcaraz looked instantly in the groove, mixing his thunderous groundstrokes with several of his signature drop shots, it was Medvedev who prevailed in the tie-break. Buoyed by that early breakthrough, Medvedev raced away with the second set, breaking Alcaraz in the second game for a 2-0 lead and then clinching another break in the sixth game with a jaw-dropping running backhand winner down the line that fizzed past his opponent. That left Medvedev 5-1 up and he duly served out comfortably to take a two-set lead. Alcaraz hit back to claim the third set when Medvedev sent a return into the net, which took it into the fourth set. The decisive break came in the sixth game, Medvedev taking a 4-2 lead with another glorious backhand return of serve that Alcaraz was unable to deal with. Both men then held serve to leave Medvedev serving for the match at 5-3. Alcaraz bravely saved three match points but Medvedev unleashed a corking serve on the fourth match point that the Spaniard could only manage a looping return to. Medvedev hammered a forehand into the corner and although Alcaraz was able to get it back, Medvedev was waiting at the net to smash an unstoppable winner. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US Open: Daniil Medvedev upsets defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in enthralling semis, to face Novak in final

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz has reached the last four of the US Open 2023 men’s singles draw after a resounding 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 win against Olympic champion Alexander Zverev on Thursday, September 7. The clash at the Arthur Ashe stadium saw the Spaniard dominate from the start as he broke his German opponent at the decisive stage while he was struggling with injuries. Alcaraz will now face 2021 US Open champion&nbsp;Daniil Medvedev in the semifinal on Friday.

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CARLITOS' NEXT STOP IS THE SEMIFINALS! <a href="https://t.co/ut1zpZigIG">pic.twitter.com/ut1zpZigIG</a>
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<h2>Alcaraz makes light work of Zverev</h2>

In a high-profile clash on Wednesday (Thursday in India), Alcaraz started on the front foot as he pocketed the first set with ease. The Spanish No.1 pounced on his only break point in the first set to earn an early advantage in the contest. The German star was then seen struggling with his serve in the second set where he committed two double faults while losing his serve twice. Interestingly, Alcaraz did not present a single break point opportunity to his opponent to assert his dominance in the contest.

Before the start of the third set, Zverev took a medical timeout as he was struggling with injury concerns. After an extended break, he returned to the court and gave&nbsp;a tough fight to the defending Wimbledon champion. The German failed to consolidate on three break point opportunities and suffered at the decisive stage of the match yet again.

Interestingly, Alcaraz won all four break points in the contest while Zverev lost all five opportunities to break his opponent's serve. It took 2 hours and 30 minutes for Alcaraz to book his semifinal berth where he will face 2021 US Open champion Daniil Medvedev.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-open-2023-aryna-sabalenka-beats-chinas-zheng-qinwen-to-reach-semi-finals-633071">US Open 2023: Aryna Sabalenka beats China's Zheng Qinwen to reach semi-finals</a>

<h2>What is up for grabs?</h2>

The semifinal ties are all set for a mouth-watering clash as Alcaraz bids to defend his title while 2021 champion Medvedev looks to reclaim his throne. The clash will be the fourth meeting between the pair, having also met at the same stage of the Wimbledon Championships earlier this year. The pair’s only hard court meeting came at the ATP Masters 1000 Indian Wells earlier this year when Alcaraz was again at the top. Medvedev’s only win against Alcaraz came at the 2021 Wimbledon Championships.

The winner of the semifinal contest will face the winner of the three-time champion Novak Djokovic and Ben Shelton clash in Sunday’s summit match at the Arthur Ashe Stadium.

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Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz has reached the last four of the US Open 2023 men’s singles draw after a resounding 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 win against Olympic champion Alexander Zverev on Thursday, September 7.

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz has reached the last four of the US Open 2023 men’s singles draw after a resounding 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 win against Olympic champion Alexander Zverev on Thursday, September 7. The clash at the Arthur Ashe stadium saw the Spaniard dominate from the start as he broke his German opponent at the decisive stage while he was struggling with injuries. Alcaraz will now face 2021 US Open champion Daniil Medvedev in the semifinal on Friday. CARLITOS' NEXT STOP IS THE SEMIFINALS! pic.twitter.com/ut1zpZigIG — US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 7, 2023 × Alcaraz makes light work of Zverev In a high-profile clash on Wednesday (Thursday in India), Alcaraz started on the front foot as he pocketed the first set with ease. The Spanish No.1 pounced on his only break point in the first set to earn an early advantage in the contest. The German star was then seen struggling with his serve in the second set where he committed two double faults while losing his serve twice. Interestingly, Alcaraz did not present a single break point opportunity to his opponent to assert his dominance in the contest. Before the start of the third set, Zverev took a medical timeout as he was struggling with injury concerns. After an extended break, he returned to the court and gave a tough fight to the defending Wimbledon champion. The German failed to consolidate on three break point opportunities and suffered at the decisive stage of the match yet again. Interestingly, Alcaraz won all four break points in the contest while Zverev lost all five opportunities to break his opponent's serve. It took 2 hours and 30 minutes for Alcaraz to book his semifinal berth where he will face 2021 US Open champion Daniil Medvedev. ALSO READ | US Open 2023: Aryna Sabalenka beats China's Zheng Qinwen to reach semi-finals What is up for grabs? The semifinal ties are all set for a mouth-watering clash as Alcaraz bids to defend his title while 2021 champion Medvedev looks to reclaim his throne. The clash will be the fourth meeting between the pair, having also met at the same stage of the Wimbledon Championships earlier this year. The pair’s only hard court meeting came at the ATP Masters 1000 Indian Wells earlier this year when Alcaraz was again at the top. Medvedev’s only win against Alcaraz came at the 2021 Wimbledon Championships. The winner of the semifinal contest will face the winner of the three-time champion Novak Djokovic and Ben Shelton clash in Sunday’s summit match at the Arthur Ashe Stadium. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US Open 2023: Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz books semis berth after cruising past Alexander Zverev

Daniil Medvedev defeated fellow Russian Andrey Rublev 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 in scorching conditions Wednesday to reach his fourth US Open semi-final and set up a possible meeting with defending champion Carlos Alcaraz.

Third seed Medvedev, the 2021 US Open champion, rallied from a break down in all three sets as he condemned a frustrated Rublev to a ninth straight Grand Slam quarter-final loss.

Medvedev will play Alcaraz or German 12th seed Alexander Zverev for a place in Sunday's final after an energy-sapping duel against the eighth-ranked Rublev as the temperature hit 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius) in New York.

At one point during the third set Medvedev muttered to a nearby TV camera "one player is going to die and they're going to see" as he grabbed a towel mid-game.

"The conditions were brutal. The only good thing is that both players suffer, so it's tough for both of us," Medvedev said after the 2hr 48min encounter, during which the extreme heat policy was in effect.

"At the end of the first set I kind of couldn't see the ball anymore. I kind of just played with sensations," he said.

Medvedev overturned a 3-0 defeat in the opening set in a repeat of their 2020 quarter-final here.

He dropped serve twice in the second set but hit back for a 4-3 lead before summoning the trainer complaining of breathing difficulties.

Medvedev resisted three break points the very next game and broke once more to claim a two-set lead.

He then used the time between sets to cool down off court.

"I couldn't wait to go to the cold shower, but the thing about that is when you come out either you can't move because your body blocks or you feel better," said Medvedev.

"I just thought I don't care, I'm just going to do it, but I didn't need to, so I am going to do it now," he added.

Rublev twice surged in front in the third set only for Medvedev to respond on both occasions, sealing victory&nbsp;in a marathon final game courtesy of his nine break of the match.

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Daniil Medvedev defeated fellow Russian Andrey Rublev 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 in scorching conditions Wednesday to reach his fourth US Open semi-final and set up a possible meeting with defending champion Carlos Alcaraz.

Daniil Medvedev defeated fellow Russian Andrey Rublev 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 in scorching conditions Wednesday to reach his fourth US Open semi-final and set up a possible meeting with defending champion Carlos Alcaraz. Third seed Medvedev, the 2021 US Open champion, rallied from a break down in all three sets as he condemned a frustrated Rublev to a ninth straight Grand Slam quarter-final loss. Medvedev will play Alcaraz or German 12th seed Alexander Zverev for a place in Sunday's final after an energy-sapping duel against the eighth-ranked Rublev as the temperature hit 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius) in New York. At one point during the third set Medvedev muttered to a nearby TV camera "one player is going to die and they're going to see" as he grabbed a towel mid-game. "The conditions were brutal. The only good thing is that both players suffer, so it's tough for both of us," Medvedev said after the 2hr 48min encounter, during which the extreme heat policy was in effect. "At the end of the first set I kind of couldn't see the ball anymore. I kind of just played with sensations," he said. Medvedev overturned a 3-0 defeat in the opening set in a repeat of their 2020 quarter-final here. He dropped serve twice in the second set but hit back for a 4-3 lead before summoning the trainer complaining of breathing difficulties. Medvedev resisted three break points the very next game and broke once more to claim a two-set lead. He then used the time between sets to cool down off court. "I couldn't wait to go to the cold shower, but the thing about that is when you come out either you can't move because your body blocks or you feel better," said Medvedev. "I just thought I don't care, I'm just going to do it, but I didn't need to, so I am going to do it now," he added. Rublev twice surged in front in the third set only for Medvedev to respond on both occasions, sealing victory in a marathon final game courtesy of his nine break of the match. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US Open 2023: Medvedev douses Rublev with 'cold shower' to reach semis

World number one Carlos Alcaraz aced his first real test at the U.S. Open on Saturday powering past Britain's Daniel Evans while women's second seed Aryna Sabalenka schooled France's Clara Burel to move into the fourth round of the year's final Grand Slam.

Third seed Daniil Medvedev once again worked the U.S. Open graveyard shift on Saturday, beating in-form Sebastian Baez 6-2 6-2 7-6(6) to end the Argentine's 12 match winning streak. It was the second consecutive match Medvedev started one day and finished it the next, having gone four sets with Australian Christopher O'Connell in a late night battle on Thursday that wrapped early Friday morning.

While not quite yet back to his best, Alcaraz's form and confidence have been building with each match as he bids to become the first man to defend his U.S. Open title since Roger Federer won five straight from 2004 to 2008.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-ons-jabeur-enters-us-open-last-16-631871">Tennis: Ons Jabeur enters US Open last 16</a>

Against the 26th seeded Evans, the 20-year-old Spaniard mixed moments of brilliance with lapses in focus but was never really threatened on his way to 6-2 6-3 4-6 6-3 win. Alcaraz's victory contributed to a brutal day for the British contingent with only young gun Jack Draper preventing a third round wipeout with a 6-4 6-2 3-6 6-3 win over American wild card Michael Mmoh.

Draper arrived in New York unsure if he could compete after suffering a small tear in his shoulder that forced him out of the Winston-Salem tune-up event but on Saturday the 21-year-old was the last Briton standing.

Top seeded Briton, number 16 Cameron Norrie, was dumped out 6-3 6-4 6-3 by Italian Matteo Arnaldi while American Peyton Stearns pushed the last British woman Katie Boulter to the exit with a 6-4 6-3 victory.

In contrast to the British woes it was another bright day for the home fans as third seed Jessica Pegula led another American push into the last 16, stopping Ukraine's Elina Svitolina 6-4 4-6 6-2.

Joining Pegula were 2017 finalist Madison Keys, a 5-7 6-2 6-2 winner over 14th seed Liudmila Samsonova, Stearns and sixth seed Coco Gauff, who booked her spot on Friday with a win over Elise Mertens.

With four American men and the same number of women reaching the fourth round, home fans can dream of a Flushing Meadows trophy sweep no matter how far-fetched that idea might seem.

Not since 2002 when Pete Sampras and Serena Williams were crowned U.S. Open champions have Americans hoisted both trophies but with Pegula, Coco Gauff, Taylor Fritz and Frances Tiafoe all top 10 seeds and in the last 16, the chance will be there.

With Tommy Paul and Ben Shelton also advancing there will four American men in the fourth at the U.S. Open for the first time since 2011.

The last time Flushing Meadows had a chance to celebrate a homegrown women's champion was in 2017 when Sloane Stephens beat Keys in an all-American final while the men's title drought extends back two decades to Andy Roddick's victory in 2003.

In other action sixth seed Jannik Sinner took down 2017 U.S. Open champion Stan Wawrinka 6-3 2-6 6-4 6-2 to set up an intriguing fourth round meeting with 12th seeded German Alexander Zverev, who was a 6-7(2) 7-6(8) 6-1 6-1 winner over Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov.

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World number one Carlos Alcaraz aced his first real test at the U.S. Open on Saturday powering past Britain's Daniel Evans while women's second seed Aryna Sabalenka schooled France's Clara Burel to move into the fourth round of the year's final Grand Slam.

World number one Carlos Alcaraz aced his first real test at the U.S. Open on Saturday powering past Britain's Daniel Evans while women's second seed Aryna Sabalenka schooled France's Clara Burel to move into the fourth round of the year's final Grand Slam. Third seed Daniil Medvedev once again worked the U.S. Open graveyard shift on Saturday, beating in-form Sebastian Baez 6-2 6-2 7-6(6) to end the Argentine's 12 match winning streak. It was the second consecutive match Medvedev started one day and finished it the next, having gone four sets with Australian Christopher O'Connell in a late night battle on Thursday that wrapped early Friday morning. While not quite yet back to his best, Alcaraz's form and confidence have been building with each match as he bids to become the first man to defend his U.S. Open title since Roger Federer won five straight from 2004 to 2008. ALSO READ: Tennis: Ons Jabeur enters US Open last 16 Against the 26th seeded Evans, the 20-year-old Spaniard mixed moments of brilliance with lapses in focus but was never really threatened on his way to 6-2 6-3 4-6 6-3 win. Alcaraz's victory contributed to a brutal day for the British contingent with only young gun Jack Draper preventing a third round wipeout with a 6-4 6-2 3-6 6-3 win over American wild card Michael Mmoh. Draper arrived in New York unsure if he could compete after suffering a small tear in his shoulder that forced him out of the Winston-Salem tune-up event but on Saturday the 21-year-old was the last Briton standing. Top seeded Briton, number 16 Cameron Norrie, was dumped out 6-3 6-4 6-3 by Italian Matteo Arnaldi while American Peyton Stearns pushed the last British woman Katie Boulter to the exit with a 6-4 6-3 victory. In contrast to the British woes it was another bright day for the home fans as third seed Jessica Pegula led another American push into the last 16, stopping Ukraine's Elina Svitolina 6-4 4-6 6-2. Joining Pegula were 2017 finalist Madison Keys, a 5-7 6-2 6-2 winner over 14th seed Liudmila Samsonova, Stearns and sixth seed Coco Gauff, who booked her spot on Friday with a win over Elise Mertens. With four American men and the same number of women reaching the fourth round, home fans can dream of a Flushing Meadows trophy sweep no matter how far-fetched that idea might seem. Not since 2002 when Pete Sampras and Serena Williams were crowned U.S. Open champions have Americans hoisted both trophies but with Pegula, Coco Gauff, Taylor Fritz and Frances Tiafoe all top 10 seeds and in the last 16, the chance will be there. With Tommy Paul and Ben Shelton also advancing there will four American men in the fourth at the U.S. Open for the first time since 2011. The last time Flushing Meadows had a chance to celebrate a homegrown women's champion was in 2017 when Sloane Stephens beat Keys in an all-American final while the men's title drought extends back two decades to Andy Roddick's victory in 2003. In other action sixth seed Jannik Sinner took down 2017 U.S. Open champion Stan Wawrinka 6-3 2-6 6-4 6-2 to set up an intriguing fourth round meeting with 12th seeded German Alexander Zverev, who was a 6-7(2) 7-6(8) 6-1 6-1 winner over Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US Open: World no.1 Carlos Alcaraz continues winning run, Daniil Medvedev reaches 4th round

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