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.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
CARLITOS' NEXT STOP IS THE SEMIFINALS! <a href="https://t.co/ut1zpZigIG">pic.twitter.com/ut1zpZigIG</a>
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) <a href="https://twitter.com/usopen/status/1699629044654907827?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<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.

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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.

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

<main>
<section>
WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" data-gtm-yt-inspected-18="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-24="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-33="true" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="lazy" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=0" title="live tv" width="100%"></iframe>
</section>
</main>

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.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

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

Carlos Alcaraz launched the defence of his US Open crown with a brisk victory after his opponent suffered an injury on Tuesday as third seed Daniil Medvedev strolled into the second round with a quick-fire win.

Alcaraz, returning to the same Arthur Ashe Stadium court where he lifted his first Grand Slam as a teenager a year ago, was always in control after Germany's Dominik Koepfer rolled his left ankle badly in the opening game.

Koepfer tried to continue despite being in obvious discomfort, but finally called it quits while trailing 3-2 in the second set after dropping the first 6-2.

"That's not the best way to get through into another round," said world number one Alcaraz. "But I have to say on my side I was playing great."

Alcaraz, who faces Lloyd Harris of South Africa in the second round, is on course to face 2021 US Open champion Medvedev in the semi-finals.

Medvedev opened his account on Tuesday with a 6-1, 6-1, 6-0 thrashing of Hungary's Attila Balazs in just 74 minutes.

The Russian will face Australia's Christopher O'Connell in the second round on Thursday for a spot in the last 32.

"That's probably the fastest three-set match I played," Medvedev said after his blistering demolition of Balazs.&nbsp;

While Alcaraz and Medvedev cruised into the second round, Karen Khachanov -- a semi-finalist at last year's US Open -- was on the wrong end of a first-round upset.

The 11th-seeded Russian was bounced out in straight sets by American world No.89 Michael Mmoh, losing 6-2, 6-4, 6-2.

Germany's 12th seed Alexander Zverev, a beaten finalist at Flushing Meadows in 2020, never looked in danger of following Khachanov out of the tournament, registering a 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 win over Australia's Aleksandar Vukic.

Jannik Sinner, the Italian sixth seed, trounced Yannick Hanfmann of Germany 6-3, 6-1, 6-1.

In other men's games on Tuesday, British veteran Andy Murray downed France's Corentin Moutet 6-2, 7-5, 6-3, in a match that saw a bungled attempt to use the US Open's new video review technology for the first time.

Chair umpire Louise Azemar Engzell attempted to deploy the system after Moutet requested a review following a double-bounce call.

The umpire was forced to abandon the attempt however after discovering officials were unable to properly access footage of the incident.

"I don't know how the technology works," Murray said. "But it obviously didn't go to plan in a pretty important moment of the match. So, yeah, it would be good if they could get that fixed."

Meanwhile, China sealed a notable first when Wu Yibing beat Serbia's Dusan Lajovic 3-6, 6-4, 2-6, 6-4, 6-2 to join compatriot Zhang Zhizhen in the second round.

It is the first time in tennis's Open era that two Chinese men have reached the second round of the same Grand Slam tournament.

<h2>Ailing Jabeur advances&nbsp;</h2>

In the women's draw meanwhile another semi-finalist from 2022 also made an early exit, with French seventh seed Caroline Garcia slumping to a 6-4, 6-1 reverse against Chinese qualifier Wang Yafan.

Tunisia's Ons Jabeur, desperate to land her first Grand Slam title after losing in three major championship finals in 2022 and 2023, survived a medical scare before scraping past Colombia's Camila Osorio.

The 29-year-old fifth seed looked out of sorts throughout her 7-5, 7-6 (7/4) win, at one stage in the opening set complaining of breathing difficulties before taking an extended medical timeout.

Jabeur has played only one tournament since being upset in last month's Wimbledon final by unseeded Czech Marketa Vondrousova.

Vondrousova, seeded ninth in New York, cruised into the second round on Tuesday with a 6-3, 6-0 win over South Korean qualifier Han Na-Lae.

Third seed Jessica Pegula meanwhile kept home hopes alive with a clinical 6-2, 6-2 defeat of Italy's Camila Giorgi.

But there was disappointment for American icon Venus Williams, competing in her record-extending 24th US Open.&nbsp;

Williams was bounced out 6-1, 6-1 by Belgium's Greet Minnen -- who was just a few weeks old when Williams reached her first US Open final back in 1997.

Williams, 43, whose ranking has fallen to 410th in the world after a season disrupted by injury, refused to give any clue as to when she may follow her sister Serena into retirement.

Asked what would be the decisive factor in determining her next career move, she replied: "I wouldn't tell you so I don't know why you're asking."

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Carlos Alcaraz launched the defence of his US Open crown with a brisk victory after his opponent suffered an injury on Tuesday as third seed Daniil Medvedev strolled into the second round with a quick-fire win.

Carlos Alcaraz launched the defence of his US Open crown with a brisk victory after his opponent suffered an injury on Tuesday as third seed Daniil Medvedev strolled into the second round with a quick-fire win. Alcaraz, returning to the same Arthur Ashe Stadium court where he lifted his first Grand Slam as a teenager a year ago, was always in control after Germany's Dominik Koepfer rolled his left ankle badly in the opening game. Koepfer tried to continue despite being in obvious discomfort, but finally called it quits while trailing 3-2 in the second set after dropping the first 6-2. "That's not the best way to get through into another round," said world number one Alcaraz. "But I have to say on my side I was playing great." Alcaraz, who faces Lloyd Harris of South Africa in the second round, is on course to face 2021 US Open champion Medvedev in the semi-finals. Medvedev opened his account on Tuesday with a 6-1, 6-1, 6-0 thrashing of Hungary's Attila Balazs in just 74 minutes. The Russian will face Australia's Christopher O'Connell in the second round on Thursday for a spot in the last 32. "That's probably the fastest three-set match I played," Medvedev said after his blistering demolition of Balazs. While Alcaraz and Medvedev cruised into the second round, Karen Khachanov -- a semi-finalist at last year's US Open -- was on the wrong end of a first-round upset. The 11th-seeded Russian was bounced out in straight sets by American world No.89 Michael Mmoh, losing 6-2, 6-4, 6-2. Germany's 12th seed Alexander Zverev, a beaten finalist at Flushing Meadows in 2020, never looked in danger of following Khachanov out of the tournament, registering a 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 win over Australia's Aleksandar Vukic. Jannik Sinner, the Italian sixth seed, trounced Yannick Hanfmann of Germany 6-3, 6-1, 6-1. In other men's games on Tuesday, British veteran Andy Murray downed France's Corentin Moutet 6-2, 7-5, 6-3, in a match that saw a bungled attempt to use the US Open's new video review technology for the first time. Chair umpire Louise Azemar Engzell attempted to deploy the system after Moutet requested a review following a double-bounce call. The umpire was forced to abandon the attempt however after discovering officials were unable to properly access footage of the incident. "I don't know how the technology works," Murray said. "But it obviously didn't go to plan in a pretty important moment of the match. So, yeah, it would be good if they could get that fixed." Meanwhile, China sealed a notable first when Wu Yibing beat Serbia's Dusan Lajovic 3-6, 6-4, 2-6, 6-4, 6-2 to join compatriot Zhang Zhizhen in the second round. It is the first time in tennis's Open era that two Chinese men have reached the second round of the same Grand Slam tournament. Ailing Jabeur advances In the women's draw meanwhile another semi-finalist from 2022 also made an early exit, with French seventh seed Caroline Garcia slumping to a 6-4, 6-1 reverse against Chinese qualifier Wang Yafan. Tunisia's Ons Jabeur, desperate to land her first Grand Slam title after losing in three major championship finals in 2022 and 2023, survived a medical scare before scraping past Colombia's Camila Osorio. The 29-year-old fifth seed looked out of sorts throughout her 7-5, 7-6 (7/4) win, at one stage in the opening set complaining of breathing difficulties before taking an extended medical timeout. Jabeur has played only one tournament since being upset in last month's Wimbledon final by unseeded Czech Marketa Vondrousova. Vondrousova, seeded ninth in New York, cruised into the second round on Tuesday with a 6-3, 6-0 win over South Korean qualifier Han Na-Lae. Third seed Jessica Pegula meanwhile kept home hopes alive with a clinical 6-2, 6-2 defeat of Italy's Camila Giorgi. But there was disappointment for American icon Venus Williams, competing in her record-extending 24th US Open. Williams was bounced out 6-1, 6-1 by Belgium's Greet Minnen -- who was just a few weeks old when Williams reached her first US Open final back in 1997. Williams, 43, whose ranking has fallen to 410th in the world after a season disrupted by injury, refused to give any clue as to when she may follow her sister Serena into retirement. Asked what would be the decisive factor in determining her next career move, she replied: "I wouldn't tell you so I don't know why you're asking." 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: Carlos Alcaraz, Daniil Medvedev ease into second round; Ons Jabeur advances after easy win

Third seed Daniil Medvedev raced into the US Open second round on Tuesday with a 6-1, 6-1, 6-0 victory over Hungary's Attila Balazs.

Medvedev, the 2021 champion in New York, pumped 41 winners past the unranked journeyman Balazs in a one-sided encounter lasting 74 minutes.

The Russian will play the winner of the all-Australian clash between Max Purcell and Christopher O'Connell for a spot in the last 32.

"It's always good to start well. I'm happy with my performance," said Medvedev.

The world number three, who was also runner-up to Rafael Nadal here in 2019, said he was happy to slide under the radar with much of the spotlight fixed on Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic.

"I don't care. It's normal that Carlos and Novak are the biggest names right now," said Medvedev.

"My goal is to try to play well to get to wherever they are and try to win."

<h2>Ons Jabeur&nbsp;in Round Two</h2>

Tunisia's Ons Jabeur overcame a medical scare to battle into the second round of the US Open on Tuesday with a straight sets defeat of Colombia's Camila Osorio.

Jabeur, chasing a first Grand Slam crown after three agonising defeats in finals since 2022, opened her US Open campaign with a 7-5, 7-6 (7/4) victory on the Louis Armstrong Stadium.

The 29-year-old looked to be struggling during a tense first set, complaining to the chair umpire that she was having difficulty breathing after Osorio fought back from 4-1 down to level at 4-4.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dhoni-groomed-them-and-handed-over-to-kohli-ishant-sharma-on-smooth-transition-of-indian-bowlers-630271">Dhoni groomed them and handed over to Kohli: Ishant Sharma on smooth transition of Indian bowlers</a>

Jabeur needed treatment from medical staff after going 5-4 down in the first set, and appeared to have her blood pressure taken during a timeout.

She then rallied to take the first set and appeared to poised to clinch victory after holding two match points in the second set while 5-3 up.

However Osorio rallied to stave off defeat, and went on to level at 5-5 after breaking Jabeur.

Jabeur broke back immediately to take a 6-5 lead but was then broken once again to send the second set to a tie break.&nbsp;

Jabeur proved too strong for Osorio in the breaker, however, and will now face the Czech Republic's Linda Noskova in the second round.

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Third seed Daniil Medvedev raced into the US Open second round on Tuesday with a 6-1, 6-1, 6-0 victory over Hungary's Attila Balazs. Medvedev, the 2021 champion in New York, pumped 41 winners past the unranked journeyman Balazs in a one-sided encounter lasting 74 minutes.

Third seed Daniil Medvedev raced into the US Open second round on Tuesday with a 6-1, 6-1, 6-0 victory over Hungary's Attila Balazs. Medvedev, the 2021 champion in New York, pumped 41 winners past the unranked journeyman Balazs in a one-sided encounter lasting 74 minutes. The Russian will play the winner of the all-Australian clash between Max Purcell and Christopher O'Connell for a spot in the last 32. "It's always good to start well. I'm happy with my performance," said Medvedev. The world number three, who was also runner-up to Rafael Nadal here in 2019, said he was happy to slide under the radar with much of the spotlight fixed on Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic. "I don't care. It's normal that Carlos and Novak are the biggest names right now," said Medvedev. "My goal is to try to play well to get to wherever they are and try to win." Ons Jabeur in Round Two Tunisia's Ons Jabeur overcame a medical scare to battle into the second round of the US Open on Tuesday with a straight sets defeat of Colombia's Camila Osorio. Jabeur, chasing a first Grand Slam crown after three agonising defeats in finals since 2022, opened her US Open campaign with a 7-5, 7-6 (7/4) victory on the Louis Armstrong Stadium. The 29-year-old looked to be struggling during a tense first set, complaining to the chair umpire that she was having difficulty breathing after Osorio fought back from 4-1 down to level at 4-4. ALSO READ | Dhoni groomed them and handed over to Kohli: Ishant Sharma on smooth transition of Indian bowlers Jabeur needed treatment from medical staff after going 5-4 down in the first set, and appeared to have her blood pressure taken during a timeout. She then rallied to take the first set and appeared to poised to clinch victory after holding two match points in the second set while 5-3 up. However Osorio rallied to stave off defeat, and went on to level at 5-5 after breaking Jabeur. Jabeur broke back immediately to take a 6-5 lead but was then broken once again to send the second set to a tie break. Jabeur proved too strong for Osorio in the breaker, however, and will now face the Czech Republic's Linda Noskova in the second round. 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: Daniil Medvedev powers past Hungary's Attila Balazs in straight sets; Ons Jabeur books R2 berth

Frustrated world number one Carlos Alcaraz was knocked out of the ATP Toronto Masters on Friday as American Tommy Paul won 6-3, 4-6, 6-3 to end&nbsp;the Spaniard's 14-match winning streak. Top-seeded Alcaraz was unable to escape the poor form that has plagued him all week as he prepares for a US Open title defence starting in just over two weeks.

The 20-year-old muttered to himself and chastised his play during a match lasting more than two and a quarter hours.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/oca-chief-randhir-singh-predicts-greatest-ever-asian-games-in-hangzhou-despite-election-review-624733">OCA chief Randhir Singh predicts 'greatest ever' Asian Games in Hangzhou despite election review</a>

Paul, ranked 14th, repeated his victory over the Spaniard a year ago in the Montreal second round and now awaits a semi-final opponent from sixth seed Jannik Sinner and French showman Gael Monfils.

"I don't know if I think I have the recipe, but I played a really good match today," Paul said after notching another Canadian win over Alacraz. "I went after my shots. You can't start any points on your heels against him, he'll take advantage of it so you've really got to go after your shots early in the rally."

"Luckily I was feeling really good, playing first-strike tennis."

Alcaraz struggled early for the second straight match after barely&nbsp;escaping a third-round encounter with Hubert Hurkacz. The reigning Wimbledon and US Open champion had 27 winners and 30 unforced errors while Paul's numbers were 19 and 29. After losing serve three times in the opening set, Alcaraz recovered enough to take the second. But the Spaniard was well off his game, floating a volley wide to trail 4-2 in the final set.

Paul took quick advantage, advancing on his second match point from an Alcaraz return wide.

"I knew he would be there in the third set," Paul said, adding: "It helps to have beaten an opponent before. That attitude is important."

<h2>- Medvedev ousted -</h2>

Second-seeded Daniil Medvedev was also sent spinning out of the tournament, falling 7-6 (9/7), 7-5 to Australian Alex de Minaur. De Minaur will make his first semi-final appearance at the Masters 1000 level against unseeded Spaniard Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, who beat Mackenzie McDonald 6-4, 6-2.

Medvedev had won his last seven matches in Toronto, including a title run in 2021. But the 27-year-old was unable to get past the efficient game of number 18 De Minaur, who had lost four of five previous meetings with Medvedev.

"I had to play my best tennis," De Minaur, runner-up at Los Cabos last weekend, said. "It's always a complete chess match between us, we're both adaptable and can play many styles of tennis.

"He brings out the best in me, The way I played today was the best style of tennis that I could produce."

De Minaur needed more than an hour per set to prevail against the world number three.

The Aussie saved three set points in the opener and claimed the victory on his own second opportunity as Medvedev double-faulted.

Medvedev repeated his complaint about the slow speed of the balls on the tour this season, but said his own game could have been sharper.

"It was not a bad match but I definitely could have done better to win the first set," he said. "I mean, up 5-1 on the tiebreak, and then 6-4, 5-3 serving for it - I could have done better."

Davidovich Fokina advanced in 97 minutes on his third match point against Mackenzie, who beat an injury hobbled Rafael Nadal in the second round of the Australian Open in January.

The 37th-ranked Spaniard, who reached the final Monte Carlo last year, continued a strong week that saw him topple world number three Casper Ruud on Thursday.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Frustrated world number one Carlos Alcaraz was knocked out of the ATP Toronto Masters on Friday as American Tommy Paul won 6-3, 4-6, 6-3 to end the Spaniard's 14-match winning streak.

Frustrated world number one Carlos Alcaraz was knocked out of the ATP Toronto Masters on Friday as American Tommy Paul won 6-3, 4-6, 6-3 to end the Spaniard's 14-match winning streak. Top-seeded Alcaraz was unable to escape the poor form that has plagued him all week as he prepares for a US Open title defence starting in just over two weeks. The 20-year-old muttered to himself and chastised his play during a match lasting more than two and a quarter hours. ALSO READ: OCA chief Randhir Singh predicts 'greatest ever' Asian Games in Hangzhou despite election review Paul, ranked 14th, repeated his victory over the Spaniard a year ago in the Montreal second round and now awaits a semi-final opponent from sixth seed Jannik Sinner and French showman Gael Monfils. "I don't know if I think I have the recipe, but I played a really good match today," Paul said after notching another Canadian win over Alacraz. "I went after my shots. You can't start any points on your heels against him, he'll take advantage of it so you've really got to go after your shots early in the rally." "Luckily I was feeling really good, playing first-strike tennis." Alcaraz struggled early for the second straight match after barely escaping a third-round encounter with Hubert Hurkacz. The reigning Wimbledon and US Open champion had 27 winners and 30 unforced errors while Paul's numbers were 19 and 29. After losing serve three times in the opening set, Alcaraz recovered enough to take the second. But the Spaniard was well off his game, floating a volley wide to trail 4-2 in the final set. Paul took quick advantage, advancing on his second match point from an Alcaraz return wide. "I knew he would be there in the third set," Paul said, adding: "It helps to have beaten an opponent before. That attitude is important." - Medvedev ousted - Second-seeded Daniil Medvedev was also sent spinning out of the tournament, falling 7-6 (9/7), 7-5 to Australian Alex de Minaur. De Minaur will make his first semi-final appearance at the Masters 1000 level against unseeded Spaniard Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, who beat Mackenzie McDonald 6-4, 6-2. Medvedev had won his last seven matches in Toronto, including a title run in 2021. But the 27-year-old was unable to get past the efficient game of number 18 De Minaur, who had lost four of five previous meetings with Medvedev. "I had to play my best tennis," De Minaur, runner-up at Los Cabos last weekend, said. "It's always a complete chess match between us, we're both adaptable and can play many styles of tennis. "He brings out the best in me, The way I played today was the best style of tennis that I could produce." De Minaur needed more than an hour per set to prevail against the world number three. The Aussie saved three set points in the opener and claimed the victory on his own second opportunity as Medvedev double-faulted. Medvedev repeated his complaint about the slow speed of the balls on the tour this season, but said his own game could have been sharper. "It was not a bad match but I definitely could have done better to win the first set," he said. "I mean, up 5-1 on the tiebreak, and then 6-4, 5-3 serving for it - I could have done better." Davidovich Fokina advanced in 97 minutes on his third match point against Mackenzie, who beat an injury hobbled Rafael Nadal in the second round of the Australian Open in January. The 37th-ranked Spaniard, who reached the final Monte Carlo last year, continued a strong week that saw him topple world number three Casper Ruud on Thursday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

World number one Carlos Alcaraz knocked out of Toronto Masters; Daniil Medvedev also shown door

World number three Daniil Medvedev and Australia's Nick Kyrgios have withdrawn from the U.S. Open tune-up tournament in Washington due to injury, organisers said on Wednesday. Medvedev, who won the U.S. Open in 2021, has five titles this year with triumphs in Rotterdam, Doha, Dubai, Miami and Rome. The 27-year-old Russian reached the Wimbledon semi-finals earlier this month, losing to eventual champion Carlos Alcaraz.

Defending Washington champion Kyrgios has missed every Grand Slam this year due to injuries to his knee, foot and wrist. He has only made it onto the court once, losing in straight sets at the Stuttgart Open in June. The 28-year-old also won the Washington title in 2019 after beating Medvedev in the final.

This year's tournament runs from July 31 to Aug. 6. Japan's Kei Nishikori, Frenchman Gael Monfils and Kevin Anderson of South Africa have been given wildcards into the ATP 500 event, organisers said. In the women's draw, former world number three Elina Svitolina and 2019 U.S. Open champion Bianca Andreescu lead the list of wildcards.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-no-further-update-from-lebron-and-family-on-son-bronny-james-health-after-cardiac-arrest-619854">NBA: No further update from LeBron and family on son Bronny James' health after cardiac arrest</a>

Ukraine's Svitolina, 28, returned to tennis in April after giving birth to daughter Skai last October and has surged to world number 27 after reaching the French Open quarter-finals and Wimbledon semi-finals. American Sofia Kenin, who won the Australian Open in 2020, and compatriot Danielle Collins, this year's runner-up in Melbourne, are the other wildcard entries.

The U.S. Open begins on Aug. 28.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

World number three Daniil Medvedev and Australia's Nick Kyrgios have withdrawn from the U.S. Open tune-up tournament in Washington due to injury, organisers said on Wednesday.

World number three Daniil Medvedev and Australia's Nick Kyrgios have withdrawn from the U.S. Open tune-up tournament in Washington due to injury, organisers said on Wednesday. Medvedev, who won the U.S. Open in 2021, has five titles this year with triumphs in Rotterdam, Doha, Dubai, Miami and Rome. The 27-year-old Russian reached the Wimbledon semi-finals earlier this month, losing to eventual champion Carlos Alcaraz. Defending Washington champion Kyrgios has missed every Grand Slam this year due to injuries to his knee, foot and wrist. He has only made it onto the court once, losing in straight sets at the Stuttgart Open in June. The 28-year-old also won the Washington title in 2019 after beating Medvedev in the final. This year's tournament runs from July 31 to Aug. 6. Japan's Kei Nishikori, Frenchman Gael Monfils and Kevin Anderson of South Africa have been given wildcards into the ATP 500 event, organisers said. In the women's draw, former world number three Elina Svitolina and 2019 U.S. Open champion Bianca Andreescu lead the list of wildcards. Also read: NBA: No further update from LeBron and family on son Bronny James' health after cardiac arrest Ukraine's Svitolina, 28, returned to tennis in April after giving birth to daughter Skai last October and has surged to world number 27 after reaching the French Open quarter-finals and Wimbledon semi-finals. American Sofia Kenin, who won the Australian Open in 2020, and compatriot Danielle Collins, this year's runner-up in Melbourne, are the other wildcard entries. The U.S. Open begins on Aug. 28. 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: Daniil Medvedev, Nick Kyrgios pull out from Washington Open due to injury

Carlos Alcaraz will have a day with destiny after he beat Russian Daniil Medvedev in the second semifinal of the Wimbledon Championships on Friday, July 14. The Spaniard had an easy outing in the last-four contest as he got the better of former US Open Champion Medvedev in a one-sided contest by 6-3, 6-3, 6-3. He will now face Novak Djokovic in the final on Sunday with the Serbian chasing a record 24th Grand Slam title.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Rate that <a href="https://twitter.com/carlosalcaraz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CarlosAlcaraz</a> performance out of 10 👇<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Wimbledon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Wimbledon</a> <a href="https://t.co/o1fz6qzdvM">pic.twitter.com/o1fz6qzdvM</a>
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) <a href="https://twitter.com/Wimbledon/status/1679912288159924240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>Alcaraz runs riot</h2>

Coming into the contest both Alcaraz and Medvedev were expected to give a tough fight to each other, however, the contest turned out to be a one-sided affair. The 20-year-old Spaniard broke Medvedev on six occasions in the contest while also playing the backhand with perfection. There were 19 unforced errors by the 2021 US Open champion and only had 59 percent of his first serves in as Alcaraz exploited his opponent’s weakness.

This is Alcaraz’s second Grand Slam final having reached the final of the US Open where he emerged victorious by beating Casper Ruud in the final. He could become the first Spanish player to win Wimbledon since Rafael Nadal in 2010. On the hand, with Medvedev’s exit, there will be no repeat of the 2021 US Open final where Djokovic was beaten in the final.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wi-vs-ind-he-is-ready-to-play-tests-in-australia-and-england-ishant-heaps-praise-on-yashasvi-jaiswal-615574">WI vs IND: 'He is ready to play Tests in Australia and England' - Ishant heaps praise on Yashasvi Jaiswal</a>

<h2>Novak awaits in the final</h2>

Novak Djokovic has moved a step closer to his 24th Grand Slam title after he outclassed Italian Jannik Sineer 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 in the semifinal of the Wimbledon Championships 2023 on Friday, July 14. The Serbian was at his fluent best and faced little resistance against the Italian which will now see him face the winner of Carlos Alcaraz and Daniil Medvedev in Sunday’s final at the Center Court. Djokovic has only dropped two sets on his way to the final and will look to join Margaret Court for most singles Grand Slam titles won.

The defending champion has not lost at the Championships since 2017 and booked his ninth final in London. He has enjoyed a stellar run at the tournament, having last lost at the Center Court in the 2013 final against Andy Murray. Sinner was no closer to Djokovic and his experience in the tournament after he was caught a flight in front of the 23-time Grand Slam champion.

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Carlos Alcaraz will have a day with destiny after he beat Russian Daniil Medvedev in the second semifinal of the Wimbledon Championships on Friday, July 14. The Spaniard had an easy outing in the last-four contest as he got the better of former US Open Champion Medvedev in a one-sided contest by 6-3, 6-3, 6-3.

Carlos Alcaraz will have a day with destiny after he beat Russian Daniil Medvedev in the second semifinal of the Wimbledon Championships on Friday, July 14. The Spaniard had an easy outing in the last-four contest as he got the better of former US Open Champion Medvedev in a one-sided contest by 6-3, 6-3, 6-3. He will now face Novak Djokovic in the final on Sunday with the Serbian chasing a record 24th Grand Slam title. Rate that @CarlosAlcaraz performance out of 10 👇#Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/o1fz6qzdvM — Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 14, 2023 × Alcaraz runs riot Coming into the contest both Alcaraz and Medvedev were expected to give a tough fight to each other, however, the contest turned out to be a one-sided affair. The 20-year-old Spaniard broke Medvedev on six occasions in the contest while also playing the backhand with perfection. There were 19 unforced errors by the 2021 US Open champion and only had 59 percent of his first serves in as Alcaraz exploited his opponent’s weakness. This is Alcaraz’s second Grand Slam final having reached the final of the US Open where he emerged victorious by beating Casper Ruud in the final. He could become the first Spanish player to win Wimbledon since Rafael Nadal in 2010. On the hand, with Medvedev’s exit, there will be no repeat of the 2021 US Open final where Djokovic was beaten in the final. ALSO READ | WI vs IND: 'He is ready to play Tests in Australia and England' - Ishant heaps praise on Yashasvi Jaiswal Novak awaits in the final Novak Djokovic has moved a step closer to his 24th Grand Slam title after he outclassed Italian Jannik Sineer 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 in the semifinal of the Wimbledon Championships 2023 on Friday, July 14. The Serbian was at his fluent best and faced little resistance against the Italian which will now see him face the winner of Carlos Alcaraz and Daniil Medvedev in Sunday’s final at the Center Court. Djokovic has only dropped two sets on his way to the final and will look to join Margaret Court for most singles Grand Slam titles won. The defending champion has not lost at the Championships since 2017 and booked his ninth final in London. He has enjoyed a stellar run at the tournament, having last lost at the Center Court in the 2013 final against Andy Murray. Sinner was no closer to Djokovic and his experience in the tournament after he was caught a flight in front of the 23-time Grand Slam champion. 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.

Wimbledon 2023: Carlos Alcaraz thumps Daniil Medvedev, to face Novak Djokovic in final on Sunday

Carlos Alcaraz takes on Daniil Medvedev on Friday for a place in the Wimbledon final, where history-chasing Novak Djokovic will likely be lying in wait. The Spanish top seed has looked increasingly impressive in his surge to the last four but nobody is betting against Djokovic, who faces eighth-ranked Jannik Sinner.

<h2>Jannik Sinner (ITA x8) v Novak Djokovic (SRB x2)</h2>

Jannik Sinner will not have slept easily after last year's painful Wimbledon quarter-final defeat against Novak Djokovic. The Italian was two sets up and on the brink of a career-defining win before the Serbian gave himself a pep talk during a toilet break.

Whatever he said to himself certainly worked -- he broke early and never looked back, losing just seven games over the last three sets as he romped to victory.

Djokovic is within sight of two seismic records -- equalling Roger Federer's mark of eight men's singles titles at Wimbledon and Margaret Court's all-time record of 24 Grand Slam titles. He is not the top seed but candidly says his astonishing achievements at the All England Club make him top dog.

"Judging with the results I had in my career here, previous four occasions of Wimbledon that I won, and reaching another semi-final, I consider myself favourite," said the 36-year-old.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-ons-jabeur-and-marketa-vondrousova-to-lock-horns-in-wimbledon-2023-final-615235">Tennis: Ons Jabeur and Marketa Vondrousova to lock horns in Wimbledon 2023 final</a>

But underdog Sinner, 21, believes he has absorbed lessons from last year's loss as he plots a monumental upset.

"Last year I played a very good match against him," he said. "I have learned about it. Hopefully I can show this also on the court. I'm going to stick with my game plan in my mind, and hopefully I can execute it in the best possible way."

<h3>Head-to-head (year, tournament, round, winner, score):</h3>

Djokovic leads 2-0

<ul>
	<li>2022&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Wimbledon&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; QF&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Djokovic 5-7, 2-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-2</li>
	<li>2021&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Monte Carlo&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; R32&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Djokovic 6-4, 6-2</li>
</ul>

<h2>Carlos Alcaraz (ESP x1) v Daniil Medvedev (x3)</h2>

Carlos Alcaraz has looked increasingly impressive at Wimbledon -- powering past his friend Holger Rune in the last eight. The Spaniard has rattled off 10 straight wins on grass, including his title-winning run at Queen's, and is seen as the man most likely to dethrone Djokovic.

But before he can even contemplate a first final, he faces a tough task against Russian third seed Daniil Medvedev, who brushed him aside in the second round two years ago.

Alcaraz, who has rocketed up the rankings since then, described Medvedev as a "complete player".

"He's an octopus," he said. "He catches every ball. It is amazing, he's an amazing athlete."

The 20-year-old Alcaraz, who won the US Open in 2022 and beat Medvedev convincingly in the Indian Wells final earlier this year, is talking a good game.

"I think I'm playing great, a lot of confidence right now," he said. "So it's going to be a really good match I think. I going to enjoy."

Despite his high ranking, Medvedev's record at Wimbledon is modest -- his previous best run was reaching the fourth round in 2021.

The 27-year-old, who was unable to play last year due to the ban on Russian and Belarusian players, is wary of the "brutal" power of his young opponent but says he has found his rhythm on grass.

"I managed to find it so far," he said. "So hopefully I can find it for two more matches."

<h3>Head-to-head (year, tournament, round, winner, score):</h3>

Alcaraz and Medevdev level at 1-1

<ul>
	<li>2023&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Indian Wells&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; F&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Alcaraz&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 6-3, 6-2</li>
	<li>2021&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Wimbledon&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; R64&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Medvedev&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 6-4, 6-1, 6-2</li>
</ul>

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Carlos Alcaraz takes on Daniil Medvedev on Friday for a place in the Wimbledon final, where history-chasing Novak Djokovic will likely be lying in wait. The Spanish top seed has looked increasingly impressive in his surge to the last four but nobody is betting against Djokovic, who faces eighth-ranked Jannik Sinner.

Carlos Alcaraz takes on Daniil Medvedev on Friday for a place in the Wimbledon final, where history-chasing Novak Djokovic will likely be lying in wait. The Spanish top seed has looked increasingly impressive in his surge to the last four but nobody is betting against Djokovic, who faces eighth-ranked Jannik Sinner. Jannik Sinner (ITA x8) v Novak Djokovic (SRB x2) Jannik Sinner will not have slept easily after last year's painful Wimbledon quarter-final defeat against Novak Djokovic. The Italian was two sets up and on the brink of a career-defining win before the Serbian gave himself a pep talk during a toilet break. Whatever he said to himself certainly worked -- he broke early and never looked back, losing just seven games over the last three sets as he romped to victory. Djokovic is within sight of two seismic records -- equalling Roger Federer's mark of eight men's singles titles at Wimbledon and Margaret Court's all-time record of 24 Grand Slam titles. He is not the top seed but candidly says his astonishing achievements at the All England Club make him top dog. "Judging with the results I had in my career here, previous four occasions of Wimbledon that I won, and reaching another semi-final, I consider myself favourite," said the 36-year-old. ALSO READ: Tennis: Ons Jabeur and Marketa Vondrousova to lock horns in Wimbledon 2023 final But underdog Sinner, 21, believes he has absorbed lessons from last year's loss as he plots a monumental upset. "Last year I played a very good match against him," he said. "I have learned about it. Hopefully I can show this also on the court. I'm going to stick with my game plan in my mind, and hopefully I can execute it in the best possible way." Head-to-head (year, tournament, round, winner, score): Djokovic leads 2-0 2022 Wimbledon QF Djokovic 5-7, 2-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 2021 Monte Carlo R32 Djokovic 6-4, 6-2 Carlos Alcaraz (ESP x1) v Daniil Medvedev (x3) Carlos Alcaraz has looked increasingly impressive at Wimbledon -- powering past his friend Holger Rune in the last eight. The Spaniard has rattled off 10 straight wins on grass, including his title-winning run at Queen's, and is seen as the man most likely to dethrone Djokovic. But before he can even contemplate a first final, he faces a tough task against Russian third seed Daniil Medvedev, who brushed him aside in the second round two years ago. Alcaraz, who has rocketed up the rankings since then, described Medvedev as a "complete player". "He's an octopus," he said. "He catches every ball. It is amazing, he's an amazing athlete." The 20-year-old Alcaraz, who won the US Open in 2022 and beat Medvedev convincingly in the Indian Wells final earlier this year, is talking a good game. "I think I'm playing great, a lot of confidence right now," he said. "So it's going to be a really good match I think. I going to enjoy." Despite his high ranking, Medvedev's record at Wimbledon is modest -- his previous best run was reaching the fourth round in 2021. The 27-year-old, who was unable to play last year due to the ban on Russian and Belarusian players, is wary of the "brutal" power of his young opponent but says he has found his rhythm on grass. "I managed to find it so far," he said. "So hopefully I can find it for two more matches." Head-to-head (year, tournament, round, winner, score): Alcaraz and Medevdev level at 1-1 2023 Indian Wells F Alcaraz 6-3, 6-2 2021 Wimbledon R64 Medvedev 6-4, 6-1, 6-2 WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Wimbledon Men's Semifinals Preview - Carlos Alcaraz vs Daniil Medvedev, Novak Djokovic vs Jannik Sinner

Daniil Medvedev battled back to defeat unseeded Christopher Eubanks in five sets and reach his first Wimbledon semi-final on Wednesday.

The world number three from Russia triumphed 6-4, 1-6, 4-6, 7-6 (7/4), 6-1 and will face either top-ranked Carlos Alcaraz or sixth seed Holger Rune for a place in Sunday's final.

Former US Open champion Medvedev hit 52 winners compared to Eubanks' 74 but crucially committed just a meagre 13 unforced errors to his opponent's 55.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-2023-carlos-alcaraz-beat-holger-rune-in-straight-sets-to-enter-semifinals-614847">Carlos Alcaraz beats Holger Rune to enter semis</a>

Eubanks, who had shocked fifth-ranked Stefanos Tsistipas in the previous round, was attempting to become just the third man to reach the semi-finals on debut.

However, the 27-year-old's challenge fizzled out in the final set of a bruising, big-hitting contest.

"After the first set, I didn't want to go five sets but when I lost the third, I was happy to go five," said Medvedev who fired 28 aces.

"There were moments in the match when I was losing the game so to say and he was playing well.

"I started to sink and make mistakes but after the third set I started to build something. I had more opportunities in the fourth set and after the tiebreak I played amazing."

Medvedev was untroubled in the opening set, carving out the only break in the third game before claiming the opener in which he committed just one unforced error to 11 for Eubanks.

However, the American soon found his range with his one-handed backhand, pocketing a double break in the second set before levelling the quarter-final with his seventh ace.

The world number 43 had his tail up and a break in the opening game of the third set was the platform as he moved towards a two sets to one lead.

A frustrated Medvedev was handed a code violation for lobbing a ball that hit a courtside camera operator in the eighth game.

An unreturned serve gave Eubanks the set.

Serve dominated the fourth set as Eubanks passed 100 aces for the tournament but it was the more composed Medvedev who claimed the tiebreaker when the American buried a backhand volley into the net.

Suddenly the spirit seeped out of Eubanks' all-out attacking game as he slipped to a key double break down in the decider.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Daniil Medvedev battled back to defeat unseeded Christopher Eubanks in five sets and reach his first Wimbledon semi-final on Wednesday. The world number three from Russia triumphed 6-4, 1-6, 4-6, 7-6 (7/4), 6-1 and will face either top-ranked Carlos Alcaraz or sixth seed Holger Rune for a place in Sunday's final.

Daniil Medvedev battled back to defeat unseeded Christopher Eubanks in five sets and reach his first Wimbledon semi-final on Wednesday. The world number three from Russia triumphed 6-4, 1-6, 4-6, 7-6 (7/4), 6-1 and will face either top-ranked Carlos Alcaraz or sixth seed Holger Rune for a place in Sunday's final. Former US Open champion Medvedev hit 52 winners compared to Eubanks' 74 but crucially committed just a meagre 13 unforced errors to his opponent's 55. Also Read: Carlos Alcaraz beats Holger Rune to enter semis Eubanks, who had shocked fifth-ranked Stefanos Tsistipas in the previous round, was attempting to become just the third man to reach the semi-finals on debut. However, the 27-year-old's challenge fizzled out in the final set of a bruising, big-hitting contest. "After the first set, I didn't want to go five sets but when I lost the third, I was happy to go five," said Medvedev who fired 28 aces. "There were moments in the match when I was losing the game so to say and he was playing well. "I started to sink and make mistakes but after the third set I started to build something. I had more opportunities in the fourth set and after the tiebreak I played amazing." Medvedev was untroubled in the opening set, carving out the only break in the third game before claiming the opener in which he committed just one unforced error to 11 for Eubanks. However, the American soon found his range with his one-handed backhand, pocketing a double break in the second set before levelling the quarter-final with his seventh ace. The world number 43 had his tail up and a break in the opening game of the third set was the platform as he moved towards a two sets to one lead. A frustrated Medvedev was handed a code violation for lobbing a ball that hit a courtside camera operator in the eighth game. An unreturned serve gave Eubanks the set. Serve dominated the fourth set as Eubanks passed 100 aces for the tournament but it was the more composed Medvedev who claimed the tiebreaker when the American buried a backhand volley into the net. Suddenly the spirit seeped out of Eubanks' all-out attacking game as he slipped to a key double break down in the decider. 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.

Wimbledon 2023: Daniil Medvedev beats unseeded Christopher Eubanks to reach semifinals

It was a case of better late than never for Christopher Eubanks as the gentle American giant was roared on to a 3-6 7-6(4) 3-6 6-4 6-4 win over Greek fifth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in the fourth round of Wimbledon on Monday.&nbsp;Eubanks, 27, is no spring chicken but after finally making it into the Wimbledon main draw for the first time this year he has made it into the quarter-finals of a Grand Slam for the first time with a rousing win over the Greek maverick.

The 24-year-old Tsitsipas, who was in action for the seventh day running after having to put up with numerous rain disruptions during his matches, was bidding to become the first Greek man to reach the last eight at the All England Club. He played his part in the highly entertaining encounter, often picking himself up off the ground to hit a winning shot.

But he met his match in the 6-foot-7 inch (2.01-metre) Eubanks, whose cheering squad included his occasional mixed doubles partner and compatriot Coco Gauff. Tsitsipas broke back to level for 3-3 in the final set but could then only watch in awe as the world number 43 hit a stupendous backhand down the line in the next game to again nose ahead 4-3.

With the finishing line in sight at 5-4 up, Eubanks survived two break points before he belted down his 12th ace to bring up match point and a rip-roaring forehand winner finished off the job. While Gauff whipped out her phone to record her friend's greatest ever triumph, Eubanks was beaming from ear-to-ear as he gave the Court Two crowd a double thumbs up fist pump.

"I feel like I am living a dream right now, this is absolutely insane," he said after setting up a quarter-final showdown with Russian third seed Daniil Medvedev. "It's surreal, it's unbelievable, I can't believe it," added the American after notching up his ninth straight win on grass.

A few weeks after claiming he hated playing on the surface, Eubanks made a u-turn on that assessment. "The grass and I have had a very strenuous relationship over the years but right now it's my best friend," joked Eubanks, who won his first ATP title on grass in Mallorca in the run-up to Wimbledon. For Tsitsipas, Monday's defeat will be a bitter pill to swallow, especially after he had to overcome two Grand Slam champions in the shape of Dominic Thiem and Andy Murray just to reach the third round.

<h2>DANIIL MEDVEDEV ENTERS FIRST-EVER WIMBLEDON QUARTERS</h2>

Third seed Daniil Medvedev reached the Wimbledon quarter-finals for the first time on Monday when his fourth-round opponent Jiri Lehecka retired injured after losing the first two sets 6-4 6-2. Medvedev, a former U.S. Open champion, has played four Grand Slam finals but has always struggled at Wimbledon. "I knew that Wimbledon was so far my worst Grand Slam in terms of going far so I'm really happy to be in the quarters here," the Russian said, adding that he had, however, always enjoyed success on Court One.

Lehecka, 21, who had played a four-hour five-set match against Tommy Paul in the last round, took a timeout after the first set while a trainer treated blisters on his right foot. The Czech, who produced 33 unforced errors in the match, struggled on through the second set but Medvedev broke his serve twice and was untroubled on his own.

"I feel sorry for Jiri because fourth round at Wimbledon, to get hurt it's not easy," Medvedev, 27, said. "Hopefully he can recover fast and he has a lot more Grand Slams ahead of him." The former world number one did not play at Wimbledon last year because of the ban on Russian competitors following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, which Russia calls a 'special military operation'.

"It's my fifth Wimbledon and I was not very successful but I've never lost on Court One so I feel sorry that I probably for the quarters am going to play on Centre Court," the genial Medvedev said. "I'm like, can I just continue here? I love it. I never lost so far here. I'm really happy and looking forward to my next match. Hopefully I can give 100%."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-wimbledon-2023-novak-djokovic-enters-last-eight-with-impressive-win-over-hubert-hurkacz-613993">Tennis: Wimbledon 2023 - Novak Djokovic enters last eight with hard-fought win over Hubert Hurkacz</a>

<h2>ARYNA SABALENKA STORMS INTO QFs</h2>

Second seed Aryna Sabalenka continued her march towards a second Grand Slam title this year with a comfortable 6-4 6-0 victory over Russian Ekaterina Alexandrova on Monday to power into the Wimbledon quarter-finals. Both players were absent from the tournament last year after the grasscourt Grand Slam decided to ban players from Russia and its ally Belarus due to Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, which it calls a "special military operation".

Belarusian Sabalenka said she hoped to make up for lost time by continuing her winning run in London on her return. "I'm really enjoying being here," Sabalenka said. "I'm super happy to be back and I'm really enjoying every second on court... I just want to stay as long as I can so I can enjoy the atmosphere."

The normally aggressive Australian Open champion, who could potentially replace Iga Swiatek at the top of the world rankings by lifting the Venus Rosewater Dish, bagged the first set with a late break, playing some delightfully delicate shots at the net. The 28-year-old Alexandrova had eased past her Belarusian opponent in their previous two meetings but a repeat was never on the cards under bright sunshine on Court One as Sabalenka pounced early in the second set for a 4-0 lead.

Serving with power and precision, the 2021 semi-finalist tightened her grip on the match with a solid hold and closed out the contest when fast-fading 21st seed Alexandrova sent a shot long at the baseline. "I think it was a great match, I'm super happy with this win. She's a really tough opponent to play," said Sabalenka, who fell to Alexandrova in the 's-Hertogenbosch final last year. "I'm happy with the level I played today."

Sabalenka, 25, who has dropped one set in the tournament so far, faces American 25th seed Madison Keys in the last eight. "It's always a tough battle," said Sabalenka, who beat Keys in the Berlin last 16 in 2021 to level their tour-level head-to-head record at 1-1. "I'm really looking forward to it."

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

It was a case of better late than never for Christopher Eubanks as the gentle American giant was roared on to a 3-6 7-6(4) 3-6 6-4 6-4 win over Greek fifth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in the fourth round of Wimbledon on Monday.

It was a case of better late than never for Christopher Eubanks as the gentle American giant was roared on to a 3-6 7-6(4) 3-6 6-4 6-4 win over Greek fifth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in the fourth round of Wimbledon on Monday. Eubanks, 27, is no spring chicken but after finally making it into the Wimbledon main draw for the first time this year he has made it into the quarter-finals of a Grand Slam for the first time with a rousing win over the Greek maverick. The 24-year-old Tsitsipas, who was in action for the seventh day running after having to put up with numerous rain disruptions during his matches, was bidding to become the first Greek man to reach the last eight at the All England Club. He played his part in the highly entertaining encounter, often picking himself up off the ground to hit a winning shot. But he met his match in the 6-foot-7 inch (2.01-metre) Eubanks, whose cheering squad included his occasional mixed doubles partner and compatriot Coco Gauff. Tsitsipas broke back to level for 3-3 in the final set but could then only watch in awe as the world number 43 hit a stupendous backhand down the line in the next game to again nose ahead 4-3. With the finishing line in sight at 5-4 up, Eubanks survived two break points before he belted down his 12th ace to bring up match point and a rip-roaring forehand winner finished off the job. While Gauff whipped out her phone to record her friend's greatest ever triumph, Eubanks was beaming from ear-to-ear as he gave the Court Two crowd a double thumbs up fist pump. "I feel like I am living a dream right now, this is absolutely insane," he said after setting up a quarter-final showdown with Russian third seed Daniil Medvedev. "It's surreal, it's unbelievable, I can't believe it," added the American after notching up his ninth straight win on grass. A few weeks after claiming he hated playing on the surface, Eubanks made a u-turn on that assessment. "The grass and I have had a very strenuous relationship over the years but right now it's my best friend," joked Eubanks, who won his first ATP title on grass in Mallorca in the run-up to Wimbledon. For Tsitsipas, Monday's defeat will be a bitter pill to swallow, especially after he had to overcome two Grand Slam champions in the shape of Dominic Thiem and Andy Murray just to reach the third round. DANIIL MEDVEDEV ENTERS FIRST-EVER WIMBLEDON QUARTERS Third seed Daniil Medvedev reached the Wimbledon quarter-finals for the first time on Monday when his fourth-round opponent Jiri Lehecka retired injured after losing the first two sets 6-4 6-2. Medvedev, a former U.S. Open champion, has played four Grand Slam finals but has always struggled at Wimbledon. "I knew that Wimbledon was so far my worst Grand Slam in terms of going far so I'm really happy to be in the quarters here," the Russian said, adding that he had, however, always enjoyed success on Court One. Lehecka, 21, who had played a four-hour five-set match against Tommy Paul in the last round, took a timeout after the first set while a trainer treated blisters on his right foot. The Czech, who produced 33 unforced errors in the match, struggled on through the second set but Medvedev broke his serve twice and was untroubled on his own. "I feel sorry for Jiri because fourth round at Wimbledon, to get hurt it's not easy," Medvedev, 27, said. "Hopefully he can recover fast and he has a lot more Grand Slams ahead of him." The former world number one did not play at Wimbledon last year because of the ban on Russian competitors following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, which Russia calls a 'special military operation'. "It's my fifth Wimbledon and I was not very successful but I've never lost on Court One so I feel sorry that I probably for the quarters am going to play on Centre Court," the genial Medvedev said. "I'm like, can I just continue here? I love it. I never lost so far here. I'm really happy and looking forward to my next match. Hopefully I can give 100%." Also Read: Tennis: Wimbledon 2023 - Novak Djokovic enters last eight with hard-fought win over Hubert Hurkacz ARYNA SABALENKA STORMS INTO QFs Second seed Aryna Sabalenka continued her march towards a second Grand Slam title this year with a comfortable 6-4 6-0 victory over Russian Ekaterina Alexandrova on Monday to power into the Wimbledon quarter-finals. Both players were absent from the tournament last year after the grasscourt Grand Slam decided to ban players from Russia and its ally Belarus due to Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, which it calls a "special military operation". Belarusian Sabalenka said she hoped to make up for lost time by continuing her winning run in London on her return. "I'm really enjoying being here," Sabalenka said. "I'm super happy to be back and I'm really enjoying every second on court... I just want to stay as long as I can so I can enjoy the atmosphere." The normally aggressive Australian Open champion, who could potentially replace Iga Swiatek at the top of the world rankings by lifting the Venus Rosewater Dish, bagged the first set with a late break, playing some delightfully delicate shots at the net. The 28-year-old Alexandrova had eased past her Belarusian opponent in their previous two meetings but a repeat was never on the cards under bright sunshine on Court One as Sabalenka pounced early in the second set for a 4-0 lead. Serving with power and precision, the 2021 semi-finalist tightened her grip on the match with a solid hold and closed out the contest when fast-fading 21st seed Alexandrova sent a shot long at the baseline. "I think it was a great match, I'm super happy with this win. She's a really tough opponent to play," said Sabalenka, who fell to Alexandrova in the 's-Hertogenbosch final last year. "I'm happy with the level I played today." Sabalenka, 25, who has dropped one set in the tournament so far, faces American 25th seed Madison Keys in the last eight. "It's always a tough battle," said Sabalenka, who beat Keys in the Berlin last 16 in 2021 to level their tour-level head-to-head record at 1-1. "I'm really looking forward to it." 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.

Wimbledon 2023: Debutant Eubanks eliminates Tsitsipas, Medvedev and Sabalenka enter last eight

Daniil Medvedev has no doubt that Novak Djokovic is the greatest tennis player in history and the world number three believes the Serbian's ability to conjure up victories even on his bad days sets him apart from the rest.

Djokovic claimed a men's record 23rd Grand Slam title at the French Open last month to leapfrog Rafa Nadal and go three ahead of another great rival in Roger Federer, with the 36-year-old eyeing an eighth crown at Wimbledon which begins on Monday.

Victory in London will leave Djokovic level with Margaret Court on 24 major titles atop the all-time list.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-whoever-i-get-to-face-it-doesnt-make-a-difference-novak-djokovic-on-defending-wimbledon-crown-610954">Tennis: 'Whoever I get to face, it doesn't make a difference...': Novak Djokovic on defending Wimbledon crown</a>

"I don't know how does he do it," Medvedev told reporters. "I think if I saw it right, Novak is almost 50%. I think I saw he played 70 majors and 35 (34) he was in the final. I don't know how it is possible. He doesn't have bad days?

"Actually, he does, like everybody. Even on these bad days, he manages to beat the opponent. It's actually tough because it's one against one. Both of them want to win.

"I don't know how he's doing it. That's why he's for me the greatest in the history of tennis. But this is basically, of course, debatable."

<h2>'I want continue playing against him...'</h2>

Having also won the Australian Open at the start of the year, Djokovic is looking to keep alive his hopes of a calendar year Grand Slam - winning all four majors in a single year.

Medvedev famously beat Djokovic in the 2021 U.S. Open final to deny the world number two the feat at the final hurdle.

"To be able to beat him when he was going for a Grand Slam, maybe he was a little bit tighter than usual, but I played an amazing match," Medvedev said. "This gives me even more pride that I was able to do it, given what he continued to do after this.

"I'm just happy I was able to do it. I don't want to stop. I want to try to continue to play against him again in finals, or against anyone else. That's what I didn't manage to do since some time."

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Daniil Medvedev has no doubt that Novak Djokovic is the greatest tennis player in history and the world number three believes the Serbian's ability to conjure up victories even on his bad days sets him apart from the rest.

Daniil Medvedev has no doubt that Novak Djokovic is the greatest tennis player in history and the world number three believes the Serbian's ability to conjure up victories even on his bad days sets him apart from the rest. Djokovic claimed a men's record 23rd Grand Slam title at the French Open last month to leapfrog Rafa Nadal and go three ahead of another great rival in Roger Federer, with the 36-year-old eyeing an eighth crown at Wimbledon which begins on Monday. Victory in London will leave Djokovic level with Margaret Court on 24 major titles atop the all-time list. ALSO READ: Tennis: 'Whoever I get to face, it doesn't make a difference...': Novak Djokovic on defending Wimbledon crown "I don't know how does he do it," Medvedev told reporters. "I think if I saw it right, Novak is almost 50%. I think I saw he played 70 majors and 35 (34) he was in the final. I don't know how it is possible. He doesn't have bad days? "Actually, he does, like everybody. Even on these bad days, he manages to beat the opponent. It's actually tough because it's one against one. Both of them want to win. "I don't know how he's doing it. That's why he's for me the greatest in the history of tennis. But this is basically, of course, debatable." 'I want continue playing against him...' Having also won the Australian Open at the start of the year, Djokovic is looking to keep alive his hopes of a calendar year Grand Slam - winning all four majors in a single year. Medvedev famously beat Djokovic in the 2021 U.S. Open final to deny the world number two the feat at the final hurdle. "To be able to beat him when he was going for a Grand Slam, maybe he was a little bit tighter than usual, but I played an amazing match," Medvedev said. "This gives me even more pride that I was able to do it, given what he continued to do after this. "I'm just happy I was able to do it. I don't want to stop. I want to try to continue to play against him again in finals, or against anyone else. That's what I didn't manage to do since some time." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Wimbledon: 'For me he is the greatest in history of Tennis': Daniil Medvedev hails Slams leader Novak Djokovic

The French Open 2023 saw its first major upset on Tuesday in the first round as former US Open champion and second seed Daniil Medvedev was knocked out in the first round by Brazilian Thiago Wild. Medvedev, one of the favourites to win this year’s Roland-Garros, will now have to wait until the Wimbledon Championships to add to his trophy cabinet. The 7-6 (7/5), 6-7 (6/8), 2-6, 6-3, 6-4 defeat came just a week after he won the Italian Open.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
What an upset! 🤯 
 
Qualifier Seyboth Wild 🇧🇷 takes out the No. 2 seed, Daniil Medvedev, in 5 sets! 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rolandgarros</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> <a href="https://t.co/hiUHTRwZR7">pic.twitter.com/hiUHTRwZR7</a>
— ATP Tour (@atptour) <a href="https://twitter.com/atptour/status/1663579218746253312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>Medvedev pays big price</h2>

The Russian came into the contest with high expectations, having missed the 2022 season with a hernia issue. Things did not work out for Medvedev in the first set as he came second best against the 172nd seed in the tiebreak. Things got better for him in the later stage as he came back to win the next two sets and pocketed a 2-1 lead after the third set. The second seed won the second and third sets on tiebreak and 6-2, respectively.

Things, however, took a different turn as he lost control of the contest to hand the initiative to his opponent. Wild would come from behind to pocket the fourth set 6-3 before he caused the biggest upset of 2023 to stun Medvedev in the fifth set. Wild won the fifth set 6-4 and secured the biggest win of his career.

It was Medvedev's fifth loss in the opening round at Roland Garros in seven appearances.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/want-to-dedicate-this-win-to-one-of-the-special-members-of-the-team-ms-dhoni-jadeja-after-csks-5th-ipl-title-598217">Want to dedicate this win to one of the special members of the team MS Dhoni: Jadeja after CSK's 5th IPL title</a>

<h2>Wild’s thoughts after the match</h2>

"I have watched Daniil play in my junior years. It's a dream come true to beat these kinds of players on this court," said the 23-year-old Brazilian who unleashed 69 winners.

"I was cramping in the second set and couldn't really serve the way I wanted to but I tried to play my best tennis."

The big exit now means Medvedev will have to wait until the Wimbledon Championships, starting July 3 to claim his first major since US Open 2021. He lost in the final of the Australia Open 2022 and will look for a comeback in London.

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

The French Open 2023 saw its first major upset on Tuesday in the first round as former US Open champion and second seed Daniil Medvedev was knocked out in the first round by Brazilian Thiago Wild.

The French Open 2023 saw its first major upset on Tuesday in the first round as former US Open champion and second seed Daniil Medvedev was knocked out in the first round by Brazilian Thiago Wild. Medvedev, one of the favourites to win this year’s Roland-Garros, will now have to wait until the Wimbledon Championships to add to his trophy cabinet. The 7-6 (7/5), 6-7 (6/8), 2-6, 6-3, 6-4 defeat came just a week after he won the Italian Open. What an upset! 🤯 Qualifier Seyboth Wild 🇧🇷 takes out the No. 2 seed, Daniil Medvedev, in 5 sets! 👏@rolandgarros | #RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/hiUHTRwZR7 — ATP Tour (@atptour) May 30, 2023 × Medvedev pays big price The Russian came into the contest with high expectations, having missed the 2022 season with a hernia issue. Things did not work out for Medvedev in the first set as he came second best against the 172nd seed in the tiebreak. Things got better for him in the later stage as he came back to win the next two sets and pocketed a 2-1 lead after the third set. The second seed won the second and third sets on tiebreak and 6-2, respectively. Things, however, took a different turn as he lost control of the contest to hand the initiative to his opponent. Wild would come from behind to pocket the fourth set 6-3 before he caused the biggest upset of 2023 to stun Medvedev in the fifth set. Wild won the fifth set 6-4 and secured the biggest win of his career. It was Medvedev's fifth loss in the opening round at Roland Garros in seven appearances. ALSO READ | Want to dedicate this win to one of the special members of the team MS Dhoni: Jadeja after CSK's 5th IPL title Wild’s thoughts after the match "I have watched Daniil play in my junior years. It's a dream come true to beat these kinds of players on this court," said the 23-year-old Brazilian who unleashed 69 winners. "I was cramping in the second set and couldn't really serve the way I wanted to but I tried to play my best tennis." The big exit now means Medvedev will have to wait until the Wimbledon Championships, starting July 3 to claim his first major since US Open 2021. He lost in the final of the Australia Open 2022 and will look for a comeback in London. 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.

French Open: Second seed Daniil Medvedev STUNNED by Brazil's Thiago Wild in first round

Daniil Medvedev claimed the first clay court title of his career ahead of the French Open as the Russian world number three beat Denmark's Holger Rune 7-5 7-5 in a gripping Italian Open final that began after a rain delay on Sunday. Medvedev's fifth title of a stellar season and 20th overall leaves him as one of the top contenders for Roland Garros which begins on May 28.

The 27-year-old, who was out of the top 10 in February, is set to climb to number two in the world and will take the second seeding behind Carlos Alcaraz in Paris, with Novak Djokovic dropping down to number three.

Medvedev drew first blood in the first Rome final since 2004 not to feature 22-times Grand Slam champions Rafa Nadal or Djokovic, breaking in the 12th game where he met a feeble drop shot from Rune with a powerful drive to wrap up the first set.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-britains-andy-murray-pulls-out-of-french-open-to-concentrate-on-wimbledon-2023-594815">Tennis - Britain's Andy Murray pulls out of French Open to concentrate on Wimbledon 2023</a>

Rune, at 20 the youngest finalist at the Foro Italico since Spaniard Nadal 17 years ago, broke to love in the first game of the second set and pounced again for a 4-3 lead after Medvedev hit back to level the scores.

But the aggressive world number seven appeared to run out of steam late in a physically demanding spell to hand the advantage back to Medvedev, who produced a tight hold thanks to two huge serves before closing out the victory in style.

"I always want to believe in myself and I always try to do my best as I want to win the biggest tournaments in the world," Medvedev, who had not won a match in Rome before this year's tournament, said. "At the same time, honestly I didn't believe much I can win a Masters 1000 on clay in my career because usually I hated it and I didn't feel good on it, nothing was working.

"Before this tournament already in Madrid and Monte Carlo I was not feeling too bad. I didn't have any big tantrums and was like 'OK, let's continue' and here I felt amazing in practice.

"But then you need to play the toughest opponents in the world and try to make it. I'm really happy that I managed to do it and prove to myself and everybody that I'm capable."

Daniil Medvedev claimed the first clay court title of his career ahead of the French Open as the Russian world number three beat Denmark's Holger Rune 7-5 7-5 in a gripping Italian Open final that began after a rain delay on Sunday.

Daniil Medvedev claimed the first clay court title of his career ahead of the French Open as the Russian world number three beat Denmark's Holger Rune 7-5 7-5 in a gripping Italian Open final that began after a rain delay on Sunday. Medvedev's fifth title of a stellar season and 20th overall leaves him as one of the top contenders for Roland Garros which begins on May 28. The 27-year-old, who was out of the top 10 in February, is set to climb to number two in the world and will take the second seeding behind Carlos Alcaraz in Paris, with Novak Djokovic dropping down to number three. Medvedev drew first blood in the first Rome final since 2004 not to feature 22-times Grand Slam champions Rafa Nadal or Djokovic, breaking in the 12th game where he met a feeble drop shot from Rune with a powerful drive to wrap up the first set. ALSO READ: Tennis - Britain's Andy Murray pulls out of French Open to concentrate on Wimbledon 2023 Rune, at 20 the youngest finalist at the Foro Italico since Spaniard Nadal 17 years ago, broke to love in the first game of the second set and pounced again for a 4-3 lead after Medvedev hit back to level the scores. But the aggressive world number seven appeared to run out of steam late in a physically demanding spell to hand the advantage back to Medvedev, who produced a tight hold thanks to two huge serves before closing out the victory in style. "I always want to believe in myself and I always try to do my best as I want to win the biggest tournaments in the world," Medvedev, who had not won a match in Rome before this year's tournament, said. "At the same time, honestly I didn't believe much I can win a Masters 1000 on clay in my career because usually I hated it and I didn't feel good on it, nothing was working. "Before this tournament already in Madrid and Monte Carlo I was not feeling too bad. I didn't have any big tantrums and was like 'OK, let's continue' and here I felt amazing in practice. "But then you need to play the toughest opponents in the world and try to make it. I'm really happy that I managed to do it and prove to myself and everybody that I'm capable."

Italian Open: Daniil Medvedev claims maiden clay court title, beats Holger Rune in straight sets

Daniil Medvedev continued his Italian Open clay breakthrough on Thursday as the third seed reached the semi-finals with a 6-2, 6-2 win over Yannick Hanfmann.

The 2021 US Open champion freely admits he's never been comfortable on the dirt but has shattered that stereotype with his steady progress at the Foro Italico, reaching his seventh semi-final of the season.

He dominated number 101 German qualifier Hanfmann after settling in following breaks of serve in the opening&nbsp;three games in their&nbsp;quarter-final.

After going down a break in the second set, the 31-year-old Hanfmann complained to his coaching box that he had no legs left as he played on prior to losing serve for the fifth time in the match.

But he struck back briefly with a break&nbsp;of the seed to hold on for 2-4 before dropping serve again as Medvedev moved into winning position,&nbsp;closing it out on a second match point.

"I've been having good feelings in practice and I'm proving it here," Medvedev said.

"I'm happy with the win and happy to be in the semi-finals. Prior to this edition, Medvedev had never won a match in Rome and had little confidence in his game on the clay.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/cricket/list-of-ipl-hundreds-by-virat-kohli-featuring-100-vs-sunrisers-hyderabad-1684430443300">List of IPL Hundreds by Virat Kohli</a>

He is now into the final four after four victories and the loss of just one set.

"Against Hanfmann I wanted to put as many balls into the court as possible. He plays very aggressive.

"I played deep to try and make him miss -- and maybe he was not playing his best match. He was struggling more than me. I'm glad I was able to neutralise his game."

Medvedev also increased his lead in Tour match wins as he claimed his 37th of the season.

Greek fifth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas takes on Borna Coric, Croatia's 15th seed, later Thursday.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Daniil Medvedev continued his Italian Open clay breakthrough on Thursday as the third seed reached the semi-finals with a 6-2, 6-2 win over Yannick Hanfmann. The 2021 US Open champion freely admits he's never been comfortable on the dirt but has shattered that stereotype with his steady progress at the Foro Italico, reaching his seventh semi-final of the season.

Daniil Medvedev continued his Italian Open clay breakthrough on Thursday as the third seed reached the semi-finals with a 6-2, 6-2 win over Yannick Hanfmann. The 2021 US Open champion freely admits he's never been comfortable on the dirt but has shattered that stereotype with his steady progress at the Foro Italico, reaching his seventh semi-final of the season. He dominated number 101 German qualifier Hanfmann after settling in following breaks of serve in the opening three games in their quarter-final. After going down a break in the second set, the 31-year-old Hanfmann complained to his coaching box that he had no legs left as he played on prior to losing serve for the fifth time in the match. But he struck back briefly with a break of the seed to hold on for 2-4 before dropping serve again as Medvedev moved into winning position, closing it out on a second match point. "I've been having good feelings in practice and I'm proving it here," Medvedev said. "I'm happy with the win and happy to be in the semi-finals. Prior to this edition, Medvedev had never won a match in Rome and had little confidence in his game on the clay. ALSO READ | List of IPL Hundreds by Virat Kohli He is now into the final four after four victories and the loss of just one set. "Against Hanfmann I wanted to put as many balls into the court as possible. He plays very aggressive. "I played deep to try and make him miss -- and maybe he was not playing his best match. He was struggling more than me. I'm glad I was able to neutralise his game." Medvedev also increased his lead in Tour match wins as he claimed his 37th of the season. Greek fifth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas takes on Borna Coric, Croatia's 15th seed, later Thursday. 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.

Italian Open: Daniil Medvedev crushes qualifier Yannick Hanfmann to reach Rome semis

World number three Daniil Medvedev crashed out of the Madrid Open in the fourth round against Russian compatriot Aslan Karatsev, 7-6 (7/1), 6-4 on Tuesday.

The second seed in the Spanish capital has admitted he struggles on clay and fell to another defeat against Karatsev on the dirt, as he did in Rome two seasons ago.

After going nearly three hours on Monday in a three-set win over another Russian, Alexander Shevchenko, Medvedev secured an early break but Karatsev immediately struck back for 2-2.

They stayed on serve and Karatsev triumphed comfortably in the tie-break, his ball striking immaculate throughout the clash.

Medvedev complained fruitlessly about the shadows in the Arantxa Sanchez stadium, the second court in Madrid.

Ranked 121st in the world, qualifier Karatsev broke the 2021 US Open winner for 3-2 in the second set and only dropped two points on his serve after that to triumph.

"Feeling great, playing well, I just have to focus every match. I'll be preparing for the next round," said Karatsev.

"You just concentrate more (against the best players), you have to be 100 percent because they don't give you any free points, you have to concentrate, be mentally tough."

Earlier Karen Khachanov knocked out Andrey Rublev 7-6 (10/8), 6-4 in another all-Russian battle, and will face home favourite Carlos Alcaraz or Alexander Zverev in the quarter-finals.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-commentators-argue-whether-kl-rahul-should-have-used-stretcher-after-injury-vs-rcb-588081">IPL 2023: Commentators argue whether KL Rahul should have used stretcher after injury vs RCB</a>

World number two Aryna Sabalenka was forced to sweat by Mayar Sherif but eventually came through 2-6, 6-2, 6-1 to reach the Madrid Open semi-finals Tuesday.

Australian Open champion Sabalenka struggled badly at first but turned the two-hour match around convincingly to reach the semi-finals.

"I was just trying to keep fighting to keep playing my game and find my rhythm," said Sabalenka.

"She's a clay court specialist and I'm very happy with this win. It was a very tough one."

Sherif, the first Egyptian to reach a WTA 1000 quarter-final, capitalised on Sabalenka's erratic start to break in the first game.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

World number three Daniil Medvedev crashed out of the Madrid Open in the fourth round against Russian compatriot Aslan Karatsev, 7-6 (7/1), 6-4 on Tuesday. The second seed in the Spanish capital has admitted he struggles on clay and fell to another defeat against Karatsev on the dirt, as he did in Rome two seasons ago.

World number three Daniil Medvedev crashed out of the Madrid Open in the fourth round against Russian compatriot Aslan Karatsev, 7-6 (7/1), 6-4 on Tuesday. The second seed in the Spanish capital has admitted he struggles on clay and fell to another defeat against Karatsev on the dirt, as he did in Rome two seasons ago. After going nearly three hours on Monday in a three-set win over another Russian, Alexander Shevchenko, Medvedev secured an early break but Karatsev immediately struck back for 2-2. They stayed on serve and Karatsev triumphed comfortably in the tie-break, his ball striking immaculate throughout the clash. Medvedev complained fruitlessly about the shadows in the Arantxa Sanchez stadium, the second court in Madrid. Ranked 121st in the world, qualifier Karatsev broke the 2021 US Open winner for 3-2 in the second set and only dropped two points on his serve after that to triumph. "Feeling great, playing well, I just have to focus every match. I'll be preparing for the next round," said Karatsev. "You just concentrate more (against the best players), you have to be 100 percent because they don't give you any free points, you have to concentrate, be mentally tough." Earlier Karen Khachanov knocked out Andrey Rublev 7-6 (10/8), 6-4 in another all-Russian battle, and will face home favourite Carlos Alcaraz or Alexander Zverev in the quarter-finals. ALSO READ | IPL 2023: Commentators argue whether KL Rahul should have used stretcher after injury vs RCB World number two Aryna Sabalenka was forced to sweat by Mayar Sherif but eventually came through 2-6, 6-2, 6-1 to reach the Madrid Open semi-finals Tuesday. Australian Open champion Sabalenka struggled badly at first but turned the two-hour match around convincingly to reach the semi-finals. "I was just trying to keep fighting to keep playing my game and find my rhythm," said Sabalenka. "She's a clay court specialist and I'm very happy with this win. It was a very tough one." Sherif, the first Egyptian to reach a WTA 1000 quarter-final, capitalised on Sabalenka's erratic start to break in the first game. 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.

Madrid Open: Medvedev tumbles out as Karatsev reaches Madrid Open quarters; Sabalenka survives Sherif scare

Daniil Medvedev will head into the Monte Carlo Masters hoping to strike the right balance as the world number four looks to tweak his game for the claycourt swing without compromising on the style that has delivered four titles in 2023.

Medvedev has won 18 of his 19 titles, including the 2021 U.S. Open, on hardcourts, the only exception coming at the Mallorca Open when he triumphed on grass the same year. He has been in red-hot form this season having triumphed in Rotterdam, Doha, Dubai and Miami but the 27-year-old knows clay presents a different challenge for his game.

"I definitely have to change my game because my strokes are too flat and clay doesn't let the ball go through the court as much," Medvedev, who plays Lorenzo Sonego or Ugo Humbert first in the ATP 1000 tournament, said. "My opponents can use those (shots against me). "At the same time, you can't change what you do in nine months or a year drastically, so I have to find a good balance where I still play my game, with a little change, with some shots in the right moment."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jon-rahm-masters-augusta-dedicates-win-to-seve-ballesteros-580839">Jon Rahm 'Masters' Augusta</a>

Despite not being the biggest fan of clay, Medvedev reached the Monte Carlo semi-finals and Barcelona final in 2019 and the Russian knows winning a title on the surface would boost his confidence before the French Open.

He would much rather be playing on hardcourts though. "I wish we could continue on hard, but I understand that there are different surfaces on Tour and that is good because some people are better on clay, some on hard, some on grass," Medvedev said. "It's good to have different surfaces, I think that's good for the sport."

Daniil Medvedev will head into the Monte Carlo Masters hoping to strike the right balance as the world number four looks to tweak his game for the claycourt swing without compromising on the style that has delivered four titles in 2023.

Daniil Medvedev will head into the Monte Carlo Masters hoping to strike the right balance as the world number four looks to tweak his game for the claycourt swing without compromising on the style that has delivered four titles in 2023. Medvedev has won 18 of his 19 titles, including the 2021 U.S. Open, on hardcourts, the only exception coming at the Mallorca Open when he triumphed on grass the same year. He has been in red-hot form this season having triumphed in Rotterdam, Doha, Dubai and Miami but the 27-year-old knows clay presents a different challenge for his game. "I definitely have to change my game because my strokes are too flat and clay doesn't let the ball go through the court as much," Medvedev, who plays Lorenzo Sonego or Ugo Humbert first in the ATP 1000 tournament, said. "My opponents can use those (shots against me). "At the same time, you can't change what you do in nine months or a year drastically, so I have to find a good balance where I still play my game, with a little change, with some shots in the right moment." Also Read: Jon Rahm 'Masters' Augusta Despite not being the biggest fan of clay, Medvedev reached the Monte Carlo semi-finals and Barcelona final in 2019 and the Russian knows winning a title on the surface would boost his confidence before the French Open. He would much rather be playing on hardcourts though. "I wish we could continue on hard, but I understand that there are different surfaces on Tour and that is good because some people are better on clay, some on hard, some on grass," Medvedev said. "It's good to have different surfaces, I think that's good for the sport."

Tennis: World number four Daniil Medvedev says balance key as he adapts game for clay

Russian Daniil Medvedev claimed his fourth ATP title of the year with an emphatic victory over Italy's Jannik Sinner in the final of the Miami Open on Sunday. Sinner had upset world number one and defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in Friday's semi-final, but the 21-year-old struggled in the heat against the fourth seed Medvedev, who triumphed 7-5, 6-3.

The win was Medvedev's 19th career ATP title and his fifth in a Masters 1000 event and confirmed his dominance on hard courts in 2023.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🏆<a href="https://twitter.com/MiamiOpen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MiamiOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/SP1sfeKLe9">pic.twitter.com/SP1sfeKLe9</a>
— Daniil Medvedev (@DaniilMedwed) <a href="https://twitter.com/DaniilMedwed/status/1642628797752135680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Sinner, also beaten in the Miami final two years ago and now with a 0-6 record against the Russian, said he had not been at 100%.

"We woke up this morning not at my best, I felt a little bit sick....unfortunately today I couldn't play at my best," said the Italian who, however said there had been no question of him pulling out of the contest. "No, it was not that bad. But, you know, with the heat, when you run a lot, it gets a little bit worse and worse. Obviously the first half an hour we played in the sun also," he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/boxing-anthony-joshua-insists-on-battle-of-britain-against-tyson-fury-after-win-over-jermaine-franklin-578349">Boxing: Anthony Joshua insists on 'Battle of Britain' against Tyson Fury after win over Jermaine Franklin</a>

Medvedev, who had already won three titles in three weeks at Rotterdam, Doha and Dubai before losing to Alcaraz in the Indian Wells final, started confidently, holding serve to love while Sinner's first service game was a real battle.

Sinner had to save a break point and fought through a 26-shot rally before coming through at the end of a 10-minute game.

In contrast, Medvedev again served to love but Sinner was showing signs of settling as he held his serve and then the Italian broke Medvedev to go 3-2 up, with a deft touch volley.

Medvedev immediately broke back, however, with Sinner's effort clipping the net and going out and after the Russian held again, the Italian had attention from the ATP trainer.

Sinner, looking uncomfortable in the bright sunshine, took a pill along with a powder in his water in the 87 F (30.5 C) heat.

Medvedev, looking composed and confident, grabbed the first set when Sinner was serving at 6-5 down and the Italian's poor shot into the net handed the Russian the crucial break.

Medvedev quickly got ahead in the second set when Sinner sent a forehand long but just as quickly handed the break back to Sinner.

But Sinner was making too many errors and when Medvedev broke again to go 3-1 up, the Italian was unable to turn things around and the world number five completed his first ever win in Miami.

"I'm really happy. Today was a tough match. It was probably the hottest day and the most humid during the day," Medvedev said. "It was not easy conditions. I don't know if Jannik had a small injury or cramp. I was also struggling, tried not to show it," he added.

Russian Daniil Medvedev claimed his fourth ATP title of the year with an emphatic victory over Italy's Jannik Sinner in the final of the Miami Open on Sunday. Sinner had upset world number one and defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in Friday's semi-final, but the 21-year-old struggled in the heat against the fourth seed Medvedev, who triumphed 7-5, 6-3.

Russian Daniil Medvedev claimed his fourth ATP title of the year with an emphatic victory over Italy's Jannik Sinner in the final of the Miami Open on Sunday. Sinner had upset world number one and defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in Friday's semi-final, but the 21-year-old struggled in the heat against the fourth seed Medvedev, who triumphed 7-5, 6-3. The win was Medvedev's 19th career ATP title and his fifth in a Masters 1000 event and confirmed his dominance on hard courts in 2023. 🏆@MiamiOpen pic.twitter.com/SP1sfeKLe9 — Daniil Medvedev (@DaniilMedwed) April 2, 2023 × Sinner, also beaten in the Miami final two years ago and now with a 0-6 record against the Russian, said he had not been at 100%. "We woke up this morning not at my best, I felt a little bit sick....unfortunately today I couldn't play at my best," said the Italian who, however said there had been no question of him pulling out of the contest. "No, it was not that bad. But, you know, with the heat, when you run a lot, it gets a little bit worse and worse. Obviously the first half an hour we played in the sun also," he said. ALSO READ: Boxing: Anthony Joshua insists on 'Battle of Britain' against Tyson Fury after win over Jermaine Franklin Medvedev, who had already won three titles in three weeks at Rotterdam, Doha and Dubai before losing to Alcaraz in the Indian Wells final, started confidently, holding serve to love while Sinner's first service game was a real battle. Sinner had to save a break point and fought through a 26-shot rally before coming through at the end of a 10-minute game. In contrast, Medvedev again served to love but Sinner was showing signs of settling as he held his serve and then the Italian broke Medvedev to go 3-2 up, with a deft touch volley. Medvedev immediately broke back, however, with Sinner's effort clipping the net and going out and after the Russian held again, the Italian had attention from the ATP trainer. Sinner, looking uncomfortable in the bright sunshine, took a pill along with a powder in his water in the 87 F (30.5 C) heat. Medvedev, looking composed and confident, grabbed the first set when Sinner was serving at 6-5 down and the Italian's poor shot into the net handed the Russian the crucial break. Medvedev quickly got ahead in the second set when Sinner sent a forehand long but just as quickly handed the break back to Sinner. But Sinner was making too many errors and when Medvedev broke again to go 3-1 up, the Italian was unable to turn things around and the world number five completed his first ever win in Miami. "I'm really happy. Today was a tough match. It was probably the hottest day and the most humid during the day," Medvedev said. "It was not easy conditions. I don't know if Jannik had a small injury or cramp. I was also struggling, tried not to show it," he added.

Miami Open: Russian Daniil Medvedev beats Jannik Sinner 7-5, 6-3 to claim his fourth ATP title of the year

Italy's Jannik Sinner turned on the style to end Carlos Alcaraz's hopes of the "Sunshine Double" and his reign as world number one, triumphing 6-7 (4/7), 6-4, 6-2 in their Miami Open semi-final on Friday. Sinner will meet Russian Daniil Medvedev in Sunday's final while Alcaraz will lose his number one ranking to Novak Djokovic. Medvedev reached his fifth straight ATP Tour final with a 7-6 (7/5), 3-6, 6-3 win over fellow Russian Karen Khachanov.

The disappointment for the 19-year-old Alcaraz, the defending champion in Miami and coming off a title at Indian Wells, will be tinged with frustration after he struggled in the third set with leg cramps.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-marcus-rashford-doubt-for-man-utds-crunch-newcastle-affair-despite-returning-to-training-577816">Premier League: Marcus Rashford doubt for Man Utd's crunch Newcastle affair despite returning to training</a>

It had been an enthralling and entertaining power-hitting performance from both men in the first set, with an incredible 25-shot exchange in the seventh game, bring the crowd to their feet. The intense, high quality set was eventually won by the Spaniard after a tie-break, but an inspired Sinner fought back in the second. Sinner broke in the first game and although Alcaraz broke back to make it 2-2, the 21-year-old Italian sensed his moment was arriving and showed confidence in his powerful groundstrokes.

- Worried and confused -

The world number one was moving with difficulty and was broken on his first serve in the deciding set. Looking in discomfort, he crouched down on his baseline in between points and shot some worried and confused looks to his team in the stands. Sinner chose some more conservative strokes and although Alcaraz appeared to recover a little, the Italian ran out the winner in three hours. &nbsp;

Alcaraz said his problems had appeared during a bathroom break after the second set.

"I went to bathroom for five minutes and yeah, everything went down for me a little bit. I stopped myself. I started cramping a little bit. You know, after a really tough match it's, well, it is tough to stop the match for five minutes," he said. "I started cramping at the beginning of the third set, but it wasn't the reason for I lost the match. I came back...I started to feel better but of course Jannik, he was better than me in the third set. That's the truth," he added.

Sinner had lost to Alcaraz in straight sets in their meeting at the same stage in Indian Wells and he said he could feel just how high the quality of their encounter at Hard Rock Stadium had been.

"When both players play tennis like this it is very nice to play, you can feel it with the crowds. There was just a great energy with everything. It is just nice to be part of matches like this," he said.

Sinner also said that he had suffered some cramping during the second set but recovered quickly.

"I knew that I had to go on and wait for the right moment," he said. "I feel ready to compete and I am happy to be in the final," he added.

Medvedev enters final

The 27-year-old Medvedev, playing against his boyhood friend, survived a second-set comeback but his trademark precision stroke play saw him through against the big-serving Khachanov in a high quality encounter. The contest saw a series of long rallies as Medvedev fended off Khachanov's thumping shots from the baseline and then pinned his opponent back on his service game.

Medvedev hit 13 aces and saved four of six break points as the match turned decisively in his favor when he broke Khachanov in the fourth game of the third set.

Medvedev won 82% (14 of 17) of his first-serve points in the final set and was relieved to have beaten a player who knows his game so well.

"In my opinion, it was a top match," Medvedev said. "In the first set when we lost our serves, it was just a good game from the returner. In the second set, I had one bad game and he won the set. I had one break point, I could have done better. He had a break point in the first game of the third set, I managed to play well. He had one bad game in the third set, I managed to take it and I am really happy to be through. It was a very tough match".

Italy's Jannik Sinner turned on the style to end Carlos Alcaraz's hopes of the "Sunshine Double" and his reign as world number one, triumphing 6-7 (4/7), 6-4, 6-2 in their Miami Open semi-final on Friday.

Italy's Jannik Sinner turned on the style to end Carlos Alcaraz's hopes of the "Sunshine Double" and his reign as world number one, triumphing 6-7 (4/7), 6-4, 6-2 in their Miami Open semi-final on Friday. Sinner will meet Russian Daniil Medvedev in Sunday's final while Alcaraz will lose his number one ranking to Novak Djokovic. Medvedev reached his fifth straight ATP Tour final with a 7-6 (7/5), 3-6, 6-3 win over fellow Russian Karen Khachanov. The disappointment for the 19-year-old Alcaraz, the defending champion in Miami and coming off a title at Indian Wells, will be tinged with frustration after he struggled in the third set with leg cramps. ALSO READ: Premier League: Marcus Rashford doubt for Man Utd's crunch Newcastle affair despite returning to training It had been an enthralling and entertaining power-hitting performance from both men in the first set, with an incredible 25-shot exchange in the seventh game, bring the crowd to their feet. The intense, high quality set was eventually won by the Spaniard after a tie-break, but an inspired Sinner fought back in the second. Sinner broke in the first game and although Alcaraz broke back to make it 2-2, the 21-year-old Italian sensed his moment was arriving and showed confidence in his powerful groundstrokes. - Worried and confused - The world number one was moving with difficulty and was broken on his first serve in the deciding set. Looking in discomfort, he crouched down on his baseline in between points and shot some worried and confused looks to his team in the stands. Sinner chose some more conservative strokes and although Alcaraz appeared to recover a little, the Italian ran out the winner in three hours. Alcaraz said his problems had appeared during a bathroom break after the second set. "I went to bathroom for five minutes and yeah, everything went down for me a little bit. I stopped myself. I started cramping a little bit. You know, after a really tough match it's, well, it is tough to stop the match for five minutes," he said. "I started cramping at the beginning of the third set, but it wasn't the reason for I lost the match. I came back...I started to feel better but of course Jannik, he was better than me in the third set. That's the truth," he added. Sinner had lost to Alcaraz in straight sets in their meeting at the same stage in Indian Wells and he said he could feel just how high the quality of their encounter at Hard Rock Stadium had been. "When both players play tennis like this it is very nice to play, you can feel it with the crowds. There was just a great energy with everything. It is just nice to be part of matches like this," he said. Sinner also said that he had suffered some cramping during the second set but recovered quickly. "I knew that I had to go on and wait for the right moment," he said. "I feel ready to compete and I am happy to be in the final," he added. Medvedev enters final The 27-year-old Medvedev, playing against his boyhood friend, survived a second-set comeback but his trademark precision stroke play saw him through against the big-serving Khachanov in a high quality encounter. The contest saw a series of long rallies as Medvedev fended off Khachanov's thumping shots from the baseline and then pinned his opponent back on his service game. Medvedev hit 13 aces and saved four of six break points as the match turned decisively in his favor when he broke Khachanov in the fourth game of the third set. Medvedev won 82% (14 of 17) of his first-serve points in the final set and was relieved to have beaten a player who knows his game so well. "In my opinion, it was a top match," Medvedev said. "In the first set when we lost our serves, it was just a good game from the returner. In the second set, I had one bad game and he won the set. I had one break point, I could have done better. He had a break point in the first game of the third set, I managed to play well. He had one bad game in the third set, I managed to take it and I am really happy to be through. It was a very tough match".

Miami Open: Jannik Sinner ends Carlos Alcaraz's dream run, sets up final date with Russian Daniil Medvedev

World number one Carlos Alcaraz and in-form Russian Daniil Medvedev booked their places in the Miami Open semi-finals with convincing victories over American opponents at Hard Rock Stadium on Thursday. Alcaraz crushed ninth-seed Taylor Fritz 6-4, 6-2, while Medvedev ended qualifier Christopher Eubanks' impressive run with a 6-3, 7-5 victory in their quarter-final.

Alcaraz needed just 78 minutes to dismiss Fritz with the Spaniard yet again dominating with his big serve and attacking the American from the outset. The powerful Alcaraz set the tone by breaking Fritz's first service game and he did the same again at the start of the second set, winning the game to love. The 19-year-old broke again to go 5-2 up and wrapped up the win without losing a point in the final game.

He will be up against Italian tenth-seed Jannik Sinner next as he seeks to complete the 'Sunshine Double' following his triumph over Medvedev at Indian Wells.

ALSO READ':&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fans-to-have-a-major-say-businessman-thomas-zilliacus-claims-after-entering-race-to-buy-manchester-united-577554">‘Fans to have a major say’ - Businessman Thomas Zilliacus claims after entering race to buy Manchester United</a>

The 26-year-old Eubanks was playing in his first ATP Masters 1000 quarter-final after upsetting Frenchmen Adrian Mannarino and Gregoire Barrere and Croatia's 17th-ranked Borna Coric. The 6-foot-7 (2.01m), big-serving Eubanks showed no signs of nerves, holding his first two serves, but he was unable to take advantage of five break-points in a thrilling fourth game.

A half hour rain-break appeared to disrupt Eubanks' momentum, however, and he was broken on his first service game after the resumption of play, going long and allowing Medvedev to take a 4-3 lead. The Russian, who after the break noticeably stepped further into the second serve, broke again to take the first set, but Eubanks was not about to roll over against the world number five.

In the sixth game of the second set, Medvedev won a great rally at the net to go 4-2 up but Eubanks again showed his character to break back and keep his hopes alive.

Elena Rybakina cruises into Miami Open final

Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina reached the final of the Miami Open by beating American world number three Jessica Pegula 7-6 (7/3), 6-4 at Hard Rock Stadium on Thursday. Kazakhstan’s Rybakina is on course to claim the 'Sunshine Double' after winning in Indian Wells earlier this month.

The 23-year-old, ranked seventh in the world, will face the winner of Friday's semi-final between Petra Kvitova and Romanian Sorana Cirstea.

In a rain-disrupted match, neither player was able to settle into their serve with 11 breaks in total throughout the two sets. Pegula had been 4-2 up in the second set but after she was broken again, the contest turned decisively in Rybakina's direction when the American, on her serve, found the net on a return to go 5-4 down to the Moscow-born Rybakina.

Rybakina then held her serve with ease to secure back-to-back WTA 1000 finals and she said the unwelcome prospect of a third set had pushed her to take a more positive approach.

"I think that I started being a bit more aggressive because I knew that if it's going to go to the third set, it's going to be much more difficult, so I maybe risked a bit more in the end of the second set," she said, noting how tough it has been to go all the way in back-to-back tournaments.

"It's really difficult because of different conditions and these two weeks by the matches, you will see that it's been much more difficult for me here than in Indian Wells, but for the&nbsp; sunshine double, I am going to give it my best and hopefully I can make it," she added.

World number one Carlos Alcaraz and in-form Russian Daniil Medvedev booked their places in the Miami Open semi-finals with convincing victories over American opponents at Hard Rock Stadium on Thursday.

World number one Carlos Alcaraz and in-form Russian Daniil Medvedev booked their places in the Miami Open semi-finals with convincing victories over American opponents at Hard Rock Stadium on Thursday. Alcaraz crushed ninth-seed Taylor Fritz 6-4, 6-2, while Medvedev ended qualifier Christopher Eubanks' impressive run with a 6-3, 7-5 victory in their quarter-final. Alcaraz needed just 78 minutes to dismiss Fritz with the Spaniard yet again dominating with his big serve and attacking the American from the outset. The powerful Alcaraz set the tone by breaking Fritz's first service game and he did the same again at the start of the second set, winning the game to love. The 19-year-old broke again to go 5-2 up and wrapped up the win without losing a point in the final game. He will be up against Italian tenth-seed Jannik Sinner next as he seeks to complete the 'Sunshine Double' following his triumph over Medvedev at Indian Wells. ALSO READ': ‘Fans to have a major say’ - Businessman Thomas Zilliacus claims after entering race to buy Manchester United The 26-year-old Eubanks was playing in his first ATP Masters 1000 quarter-final after upsetting Frenchmen Adrian Mannarino and Gregoire Barrere and Croatia's 17th-ranked Borna Coric. The 6-foot-7 (2.01m), big-serving Eubanks showed no signs of nerves, holding his first two serves, but he was unable to take advantage of five break-points in a thrilling fourth game. A half hour rain-break appeared to disrupt Eubanks' momentum, however, and he was broken on his first service game after the resumption of play, going long and allowing Medvedev to take a 4-3 lead. The Russian, who after the break noticeably stepped further into the second serve, broke again to take the first set, but Eubanks was not about to roll over against the world number five. In the sixth game of the second set, Medvedev won a great rally at the net to go 4-2 up but Eubanks again showed his character to break back and keep his hopes alive. Elena Rybakina cruises into Miami Open final Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina reached the final of the Miami Open by beating American world number three Jessica Pegula 7-6 (7/3), 6-4 at Hard Rock Stadium on Thursday. Kazakhstan’s Rybakina is on course to claim the 'Sunshine Double' after winning in Indian Wells earlier this month. The 23-year-old, ranked seventh in the world, will face the winner of Friday's semi-final between Petra Kvitova and Romanian Sorana Cirstea. In a rain-disrupted match, neither player was able to settle into their serve with 11 breaks in total throughout the two sets. Pegula had been 4-2 up in the second set but after she was broken again, the contest turned decisively in Rybakina's direction when the American, on her serve, found the net on a return to go 5-4 down to the Moscow-born Rybakina. Rybakina then held her serve with ease to secure back-to-back WTA 1000 finals and she said the unwelcome prospect of a third set had pushed her to take a more positive approach. "I think that I started being a bit more aggressive because I knew that if it's going to go to the third set, it's going to be much more difficult, so I maybe risked a bit more in the end of the second set," she said, noting how tough it has been to go all the way in back-to-back tournaments. "It's really difficult because of different conditions and these two weeks by the matches, you will see that it's been much more difficult for me here than in Indian Wells, but for the sunshine double, I am going to give it my best and hopefully I can make it," she added.

Miami Open: Carlos Alcaraz, Daniil Medvedev enter semis, Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina reaches final

Hubert Hurkacz saved five match points as he fought back to beat Thanasi Kokkinakis in a three-and-a-half hour epic while fourth-seed Daniil Medvedev got his Miami Open bid under way with an easy win on Saturday.&nbsp;

Hurkacz was pushed all the way by the Australian lucky loser Kokkinakis before emerging with a 6-7 (10/12), 7-6 (9/7), 7-6 (8/6) victory.

The Aussie had shown his mettle by saving six set points as he won the first-set tie-break and Hurkacz, the 2021 Miami champion, saved three match points in the second-set tie-break and another two in the final-set breaker.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-defending-champ-carlos-alcaraz-into-third-round-of-miami-open-575526">Defending champ Carlos Alcaraz into third round of Miami Open</a>

"It’s tough to explain for me. I was just trying to stay in there and compete, play some good shots," said Hurkacz, the eighth seed at Hard Rock Stadium.

Kokkinakis was on serve at 6-4 up in the final set tie-break but Hurkacz produced a stunning winner up the line and that shot finally turned the tide decisively towards the Pole, who won the next three points to settle the contest.

The three hours, 31 minutes contest was the longest best-of-three ATP match of the year so far.

In contrast, Indian Wells runner-up Medvedev barely broke sweat beating Spanish clay-court specialist Roberto Carballes Baena 6-1, 6-2 in just 62 minutes.

The Russian's loss to Carlos Alcaraz in the Indian Wells final had ended his 19-match winning streak, but he was totally dominant as he struck 18 winners to the Carballes Baena's five.

Medvedev made use of the drop shot, which Alcaraz had used to good effect against him last week, and joked that he had been trying to emulate the world number one.

"I thought I needed to use that shot more. I've always liked drop shots but it's not a weapon in my game that I'm going to use 50 times a match," he said.

<h2>Looking forward</h2>

"You need to have confidence in the shot and today it worked pretty well," he said.

"I'm happy with my first match, solid performance, looking forward for next matches," he added.

Medvedev became the first player to reach 25 wins this season on either the ATP or WTA tours.

Americans Christopher Eubanks and Mackenzie McDonald produced upset wins to book their places in the third round.

Eubanks pulled off the biggest win of his career so far to beat 17th-ranked Croatian Borna Coric 6-3, 4-6, 6-2 while McDonald beat Italy's Matteo Berrettini 7-6 (10/8), 7-6 (7/5).

The 26-year-old Eubanks, ranked 119th in the world, recovered from a first set where the Croat looked in firm control to delight the home crowd.

"I honestly felt like I wasn't playing that bad. I just wasn't executing," Eubanks said. "I felt like my game plan was right. I wanted to be disruptive. I wanted to get the net. I just wasn't executing on shots. I can kind of live with that.

"So I said, 'Well, I feel like I'm playing the right way. If I just continue to try it, hopefully the execution errors will&nbsp;lessen and I'll be able to find my range.' I was able to do that."

McDonald won a thriller against 23rd-ranked Berrettini, edging both tie-breaks and surviving two set points in the 12th game of the second set.

Czech&nbsp;Jiri Lehecka's impressive form continued as he took out 18th seed&nbsp;Lorenzo Musetti.

The 21-year-old, who reached his first Grand Slam quarter-final in Australia, triumphed 6-4, 6-4 to reach the third round of a Masters 1000 event for the first time.

Two-time Grand Slam runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas advanced into the third round after France's Richard Gasquet withdrew with an ankle injury.

Greek number two seed Tsitsipas, will next face Chile's Cristian Garin, who beat Argentine Sebastian Baez 7-6 (7/2), 6-3.

Tsitsipas was runner-up at this year's Australian Open and the 2021 French Open but lost his opening round match at Indian Wells earlier this month.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Hubert Hurkacz saved five match points as he fought back to beat Thanasi Kokkinakis in a three-and-a-half hour epic while fourth-seed Daniil Medvedev got his Miami Open bid under way with an easy win on Saturday.

Hubert Hurkacz saved five match points as he fought back to beat Thanasi Kokkinakis in a three-and-a-half hour epic while fourth-seed Daniil Medvedev got his Miami Open bid under way with an easy win on Saturday. Hurkacz was pushed all the way by the Australian lucky loser Kokkinakis before emerging with a 6-7 (10/12), 7-6 (9/7), 7-6 (8/6) victory. The Aussie had shown his mettle by saving six set points as he won the first-set tie-break and Hurkacz, the 2021 Miami champion, saved three match points in the second-set tie-break and another two in the final-set breaker. Also Read: Defending champ Carlos Alcaraz into third round of Miami Open "It’s tough to explain for me. I was just trying to stay in there and compete, play some good shots," said Hurkacz, the eighth seed at Hard Rock Stadium. Kokkinakis was on serve at 6-4 up in the final set tie-break but Hurkacz produced a stunning winner up the line and that shot finally turned the tide decisively towards the Pole, who won the next three points to settle the contest. The three hours, 31 minutes contest was the longest best-of-three ATP match of the year so far. In contrast, Indian Wells runner-up Medvedev barely broke sweat beating Spanish clay-court specialist Roberto Carballes Baena 6-1, 6-2 in just 62 minutes. The Russian's loss to Carlos Alcaraz in the Indian Wells final had ended his 19-match winning streak, but he was totally dominant as he struck 18 winners to the Carballes Baena's five. Medvedev made use of the drop shot, which Alcaraz had used to good effect against him last week, and joked that he had been trying to emulate the world number one. "I thought I needed to use that shot more. I've always liked drop shots but it's not a weapon in my game that I'm going to use 50 times a match," he said. Looking forward "You need to have confidence in the shot and today it worked pretty well," he said. "I'm happy with my first match, solid performance, looking forward for next matches," he added. Medvedev became the first player to reach 25 wins this season on either the ATP or WTA tours. Americans Christopher Eubanks and Mackenzie McDonald produced upset wins to book their places in the third round. Eubanks pulled off the biggest win of his career so far to beat 17th-ranked Croatian Borna Coric 6-3, 4-6, 6-2 while McDonald beat Italy's Matteo Berrettini 7-6 (10/8), 7-6 (7/5). The 26-year-old Eubanks, ranked 119th in the world, recovered from a first set where the Croat looked in firm control to delight the home crowd. "I honestly felt like I wasn't playing that bad. I just wasn't executing," Eubanks said. "I felt like my game plan was right. I wanted to be disruptive. I wanted to get the net. I just wasn't executing on shots. I can kind of live with that. "So I said, 'Well, I feel like I'm playing the right way. If I just continue to try it, hopefully the execution errors will lessen and I'll be able to find my range.' I was able to do that." McDonald won a thriller against 23rd-ranked Berrettini, edging both tie-breaks and surviving two set points in the 12th game of the second set. Czech Jiri Lehecka's impressive form continued as he took out 18th seed Lorenzo Musetti. The 21-year-old, who reached his first Grand Slam quarter-final in Australia, triumphed 6-4, 6-4 to reach the third round of a Masters 1000 event for the first time. Two-time Grand Slam runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas advanced into the third round after France's Richard Gasquet withdrew with an ankle injury. Greek number two seed Tsitsipas, will next face Chile's Cristian Garin, who beat Argentine Sebastian Baez 7-6 (7/2), 6-3. Tsitsipas was runner-up at this year's Australian Open and the 2021 French Open but lost his opening round match at Indian Wells earlier this month. 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: Hurkacz beats Kokkinakis in epic three-setter, Medvedev gets easy win

Spain's Carlos&nbsp;Alcaraz&nbsp;swept past Daniil Medvedev 6-3, 6-2 on Sunday to win the Indian Wells ATP Masters 1000 and secure his return to number one in the world.

US Open champion&nbsp;Alcaraz&nbsp;ended Medvedev's 19-match winning streak, denying him a fourth title in as many tournaments to ensure he will supplant Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic atop the rankings.

"It feels amazing to lift the trophy here, to recover the No. 1,"&nbsp;Alcaraz&nbsp;said. "I would say this has been the perfect tournament."

Serbia's Djokovic, barred from entering the United States because he hasn't been vaccinated against Covid-19, sat out Indian Wells and will miss the Miami Open starting this week, where&nbsp;Alcaraz&nbsp;is the defending champion.

Also&nbsp;Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-indias-rohan-bopanna-creates-history-becomes-oldest-player-to-win-atp-masters-1000-573653">India's Rohan Bopanna creates history, becomes oldest player to win ATP Masters 1000</a>

Alcaraz, 19, who became the youngest world number one ever after his triumph at Flushing Meadows last year, claimed his third Masters 1000 title and joined compatriot Rafael Nadal as the only players to win at least three as a teenager. Nadal won six before turning 20.

He was unstoppable on Stadium Court, breaking through what he'd called the "wall" of Medvedev's formidable defenses.

Medvedev, coming off titles in Rotterdam, Doha and Dubai, could find no answer as&nbsp;Alcaraz&nbsp;fired winners from all over the court, defying the windy conditions.

"Daniil obviously didn't play at his best level, but I'm very happy for my performance and how I played this tournament."

He said the big change in him since a semi-final defeat to Nadal last year at Indian Wells was his comfort level on the game's biggest stages.

"I think my tennis didn't improve so much since last year. What I improve a lot is to not take the pressure, just to play relaxed. That, for me, is the most important thing.

"That's why I show a great level, because I feel like I have no pressure. I enjoy."

Medvedev certainly wasn't able to ratchet up the pressure on him.

A stinging backhand winner gave&nbsp;Alcaraz&nbsp;an early break in the opening set as he raced to a 3-0 lead.

He gave himself a set point with a sharply angled forehand volley and sealed it with an unreturnable serve, then won the first 10 points of the second set on the way to a 4-0 lead.

He didn't face a break point as he polished it off in one hour and 11 minutes, a diving volley winner giving him match point that he converted with another service winner.

<h2>Not easy</h2>

"I expected a tougher match," he said. "Against him is always a tactic match, and I did perfect today. That's why it looks easy -- but it wasn't."

Alcaraz&nbsp;has returned to number one despite a late start to the year. Injury forced him to miss the Australian Open, where Djokovic claimed a record-equalling 22nd Grand Slam title.

Since launching his season in February&nbsp;Alcaraz&nbsp;has won a title in Buenos Aires and reached the final in Rio de Janeiro.

But to stay at the top he'll have to successfully defend his Miami title over the course of the next two weeks.

Medvedev, a former world number one and US Open winner himself, was disappointed that he didn't play his best, but pleased to get past the fourth round at Indian Wells for the first time, despite twisting his ankle in a win over Alexander Zverev and cutting his thumb in another tumble against Alejandro Davidovich Fokina.

"Why didn't I play my best? I don't know. Maybe it was his ball. Maybe it was the wind, was pretty windy today, and for him it was easier to go through this wind, and that's normal.

"But the week was amazing," added Medvedev never a fan of the slow hard courts of Indian Wells.

"I had a pretty toxic relationship with the courts here," he said during the trophy ceremony as he reeled off a long list of those to thank.

"I would like to thank this court. I was giving a hard time to it, so it gave me a hard time also, rolled my ankle, but it gave me the chance to finish the tournament so thanks a lot to this court."

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Spain's Carlos Alcaraz swept past Daniil Medvedev 6-3, 6-2 on Sunday to win the Indian Wells ATP Masters 1000 and secure his return to number one in the world. US Open champion Alcaraz ended Medvedev's 19-match winning streak, denying him a fourth title in as many tournaments to ensure he will supplant Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic atop the rankings.

Spain's Carlos Alcaraz swept past Daniil Medvedev 6-3, 6-2 on Sunday to win the Indian Wells ATP Masters 1000 and secure his return to number one in the world. US Open champion Alcaraz ended Medvedev's 19-match winning streak, denying him a fourth title in as many tournaments to ensure he will supplant Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic atop the rankings. "It feels amazing to lift the trophy here, to recover the No. 1," Alcaraz said. "I would say this has been the perfect tournament." Serbia's Djokovic, barred from entering the United States because he hasn't been vaccinated against Covid-19, sat out Indian Wells and will miss the Miami Open starting this week, where Alcaraz is the defending champion. Also Read: India's Rohan Bopanna creates history, becomes oldest player to win ATP Masters 1000 Alcaraz, 19, who became the youngest world number one ever after his triumph at Flushing Meadows last year, claimed his third Masters 1000 title and joined compatriot Rafael Nadal as the only players to win at least three as a teenager. Nadal won six before turning 20. He was unstoppable on Stadium Court, breaking through what he'd called the "wall" of Medvedev's formidable defenses. Medvedev, coming off titles in Rotterdam, Doha and Dubai, could find no answer as Alcaraz fired winners from all over the court, defying the windy conditions. "Daniil obviously didn't play at his best level, but I'm very happy for my performance and how I played this tournament." He said the big change in him since a semi-final defeat to Nadal last year at Indian Wells was his comfort level on the game's biggest stages. "I think my tennis didn't improve so much since last year. What I improve a lot is to not take the pressure, just to play relaxed. That, for me, is the most important thing. "That's why I show a great level, because I feel like I have no pressure. I enjoy." Medvedev certainly wasn't able to ratchet up the pressure on him. A stinging backhand winner gave Alcaraz an early break in the opening set as he raced to a 3-0 lead. He gave himself a set point with a sharply angled forehand volley and sealed it with an unreturnable serve, then won the first 10 points of the second set on the way to a 4-0 lead. He didn't face a break point as he polished it off in one hour and 11 minutes, a diving volley winner giving him match point that he converted with another service winner. Not easy "I expected a tougher match," he said. "Against him is always a tactic match, and I did perfect today. That's why it looks easy -- but it wasn't." Alcaraz has returned to number one despite a late start to the year. Injury forced him to miss the Australian Open, where Djokovic claimed a record-equalling 22nd Grand Slam title. Since launching his season in February Alcaraz has won a title in Buenos Aires and reached the final in Rio de Janeiro. But to stay at the top he'll have to successfully defend his Miami title over the course of the next two weeks. Medvedev, a former world number one and US Open winner himself, was disappointed that he didn't play his best, but pleased to get past the fourth round at Indian Wells for the first time, despite twisting his ankle in a win over Alexander Zverev and cutting his thumb in another tumble against Alejandro Davidovich Fokina. "Why didn't I play my best? I don't know. Maybe it was his ball. Maybe it was the wind, was pretty windy today, and for him it was easier to go through this wind, and that's normal. "But the week was amazing," added Medvedev never a fan of the slow hard courts of Indian Wells. "I had a pretty toxic relationship with the courts here," he said during the trophy ceremony as he reeled off a long list of those to thank. "I would like to thank this court. I was giving a hard time to it, so it gave me a hard time also, rolled my ankle, but it gave me the chance to finish the tournament so thanks a lot to this court." 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.

Carlos Alcaraz beats Daniil Medvedev to win Indian Wells trophy, displaces Djokovic to reclaim no. 1 ranking

Daniil Medvedev shook off a second-set fall to beat Alexander Zverev 6-7 (5/7), 7-6 (7/5), 7-5 on Tuesday, the "crazy" victory pushing him into the Indian Wells quarter-finals for the first time.

Medvedev notched his 17th straight ATP victory. But for awhile it seemed the red-hot form that saw him lift trophies in Rotterdam, Doha and Dubai wouldn't be enough in the combined WTA and ATP Masters 1000 event in the California desert.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/sports/steve-smith-to-lead-australia-in-india-odis-as-pat-cummins-stays-home-after-mothers-death-571938">Steve Smith to lead Australia in India ODIs as Pat Cummins stays home after mother's death</a>

The world number six, frustrated as ever by the slow courts at Indian Wells, rolled his right ankle in the sixth game of the second set, crying out in pain and lying on the court for several minutes before limping to his chair.

Zverev, who suffered three torn ankle ligaments at last year's French Open, looked on in concern, but after the injury was examined and taped by medical staff Medvedev continued and turned the match around.

He saved all 10 break points he faced in the second set -- eight of them before he fell.

He grabbed a 4-1 lead on the way to victory in the tiebreaker and went up an early break in the third.

He was untroubled on his serve until he squandered a match point as he was broken in the 10th game.

Zverev couldn't build on that, however, clutching his head in disbelief as he double-faulted on break point in the next game.

Medvedev seized the opening, holding at love to clinch the win after three hours and 17 minutes.

"Even without talking about the ankle, the match itself was crazy," Medvedev said. "When you have 10 break points you're much closer to winning it and maybe you even deserve it, but that's tennis sometimes."

<h2>Norrie into quarter-finals</h2>

Ankle allowing, Medvedev is scheduled to face 28th-ranked Spaniard Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, a 6-3, 6-4 winner over Chilean qualifier Cristian Garin.

The Stadium Court drama launched a jam-packed day that featured all men's and women's round of 16 matches.

Men's top seed Carlos Alcaraz, the US Open champion who is chasing a third Masters 1000 title that would see him return to number one in the world, took on 21-year-old Briton Jack Draper -- who is coming off a third-round victory over childhood hero Andy Murray.

Women's world number one Iga Swiatek, trying to become just the second woman after Martina Navratilova in 1990-91 to win back-to-back Indian Wells titles, faced 2021 US Open winner Emma Raducanu.

In other early matches, defending champion Taylor Fritz defeated Hungarian Marton Fucsovics 6-4, 6-3.

Britain's 2021 champion Cameron Norrie eased past seventh-ranked Russian Andrey Rublev 6-2, 6-4, lining up a meeting with American Frances Tiafoe, who beat Chilean qualifier Alejandro Tabilo 6-4, 6-4.

Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka reached the quarter-finals for the first time with a 6-3, 2-6, 6-4 victory over Barbora Krejcikova.

Sabalenka fired 11 aces to avenge a loss to the Czech at Dubai last month -- the Belarusian's only lone defeat of the year.

Sabalenka next faces 19-year-old American Coco Gauff, who squeezed past Swedish qualifier Rebecca Peterson 6-3, 1-6, 6-4. Gauff, the fourth seed, has won three of their prior four meetings.

Two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova, a former world number two now ranked 15th, saved four match points in a 6-2, 3-6, 7-6 (13/11) victory over third-ranked Jessica Pegula.

The Czech next faces last year's runner-up Maria Sakkari, the seventh seed who beat Karolina Pliskova 6-4, 5-7, 6-3.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Daniil Medvedev shook off a second-set fall to beat Alexander Zverev 6-7 (5/7), 7-6 (7/5), 7-5 on Tuesday, the "crazy" victory pushing him into the Indian Wells quarter-finals for the first time.

Daniil Medvedev shook off a second-set fall to beat Alexander Zverev 6-7 (5/7), 7-6 (7/5), 7-5 on Tuesday, the "crazy" victory pushing him into the Indian Wells quarter-finals for the first time. Medvedev notched his 17th straight ATP victory. But for awhile it seemed the red-hot form that saw him lift trophies in Rotterdam, Doha and Dubai wouldn't be enough in the combined WTA and ATP Masters 1000 event in the California desert. Also Read: Steve Smith to lead Australia in India ODIs as Pat Cummins stays home after mother's death The world number six, frustrated as ever by the slow courts at Indian Wells, rolled his right ankle in the sixth game of the second set, crying out in pain and lying on the court for several minutes before limping to his chair. Zverev, who suffered three torn ankle ligaments at last year's French Open, looked on in concern, but after the injury was examined and taped by medical staff Medvedev continued and turned the match around. He saved all 10 break points he faced in the second set -- eight of them before he fell. He grabbed a 4-1 lead on the way to victory in the tiebreaker and went up an early break in the third. He was untroubled on his serve until he squandered a match point as he was broken in the 10th game. Zverev couldn't build on that, however, clutching his head in disbelief as he double-faulted on break point in the next game. Medvedev seized the opening, holding at love to clinch the win after three hours and 17 minutes. "Even without talking about the ankle, the match itself was crazy," Medvedev said. "When you have 10 break points you're much closer to winning it and maybe you even deserve it, but that's tennis sometimes." Norrie into quarter-finals Ankle allowing, Medvedev is scheduled to face 28th-ranked Spaniard Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, a 6-3, 6-4 winner over Chilean qualifier Cristian Garin. The Stadium Court drama launched a jam-packed day that featured all men's and women's round of 16 matches. Men's top seed Carlos Alcaraz, the US Open champion who is chasing a third Masters 1000 title that would see him return to number one in the world, took on 21-year-old Briton Jack Draper -- who is coming off a third-round victory over childhood hero Andy Murray. Women's world number one Iga Swiatek, trying to become just the second woman after Martina Navratilova in 1990-91 to win back-to-back Indian Wells titles, faced 2021 US Open winner Emma Raducanu. In other early matches, defending champion Taylor Fritz defeated Hungarian Marton Fucsovics 6-4, 6-3. Britain's 2021 champion Cameron Norrie eased past seventh-ranked Russian Andrey Rublev 6-2, 6-4, lining up a meeting with American Frances Tiafoe, who beat Chilean qualifier Alejandro Tabilo 6-4, 6-4. Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka reached the quarter-finals for the first time with a 6-3, 2-6, 6-4 victory over Barbora Krejcikova. Sabalenka fired 11 aces to avenge a loss to the Czech at Dubai last month -- the Belarusian's only lone defeat of the year. Sabalenka next faces 19-year-old American Coco Gauff, who squeezed past Swedish qualifier Rebecca Peterson 6-3, 1-6, 6-4. Gauff, the fourth seed, has won three of their prior four meetings. Two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova, a former world number two now ranked 15th, saved four match points in a 6-2, 3-6, 7-6 (13/11) victory over third-ranked Jessica Pegula. The Czech next faces last year's runner-up Maria Sakkari, the seventh seed who beat Karolina Pliskova 6-4, 5-7, 6-3. 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.

Indian Wells: Daniil Medvedev gets 'crazy' win over Alexander Zverev to enter quarter-finals

Daniil&nbsp;Medvedev&nbsp;conquered all remaining doubts as he completed an impressive hat-trick, picking up a third title in as many weeks with a 6-2, 6-2 victory over Andrey Rublev in the Dubai final on Saturday.

"Not over yet," scribbled the third-seeded&nbsp;Medvedev&nbsp;on the TV camera lens after his triumph, referring to his current 14-match winning streak amassed over the last 19 days, starting with the title in Rotterdam, followed by Doha and now Dubai.

"It's amazing because the start of the year was not perfect; in tennis, when you don't win tournaments you're always doubting no matter what happens in practice,” said&nbsp;Medvedev, who briefly dropped out of the top 10 last month before recovering in tremendous fashion.

"I was doubting a lot and now it just feels better. I'm really happy with these three weeks and I'm looking forward to the next ones."

Playing free-flowing tennis throughout the week, which earned him a coveted victory over world number one Novak Djokovic in the semi-finals before ending Rublev's title defence in the final,&nbsp;Medvedev&nbsp;fired a total of 119 winners through five matches, including 27 in the championship decider.

"A lot of shots this tournament were landing, which were maybe not supposed to be, and that's when confidence is going sometimes, so that helps a lot," said&nbsp;Medvedev, who has now won his last four consecutive matches against top-10 opposition after losing nine in a row.

Rublev was the victor in his previous two clashes with&nbsp;Medvedev&nbsp;coming in, but had no answers for his compatriot on Saturday. He tried to venture up to the net, moving forward on 18 occasions, but was only successful on 12 of those approaches as&nbsp;Medvedev&nbsp;punished him from the back of the court.

"I think it was a very tactical match, I know that Andrey can cause a lot of troubles for everyone on tour. So for sure every time we play he tries to make me suffer, I try to make him suffer.&nbsp;

"Today I managed to be on top, but next matches could be a different story,” said&nbsp;Medvedev, who leads his childhood friend 5-2 head-to-head in tour-level meetings.

<h2>Medvedev&nbsp;starts quickly</h2>

Former world number one&nbsp;Medvedev&nbsp;put Rublev under pressure on serve from the start, and the No.2 seed had to come up with a courageous volley winner to fend off a first break point in the opening game. But&nbsp;Medvedev&nbsp;still found a way as he carved a 3-1 opening.

Rublev saved two break points to hold in game five but&nbsp;Medvedev&nbsp;still widened the gap with some exceptional returning two games later for a 5-2 advantage.

Medvedev&nbsp;confidently served out the opening set to take secure a one-set lead in 36 minutes. The 2021 US Open champion had dropped serve just twice all week and he kept that statistic intact in the final.

The 27-year-old blasted a forehand winner to break for 3-2 in the second set and he consolidated with ease as he marched towards victory shortly after.

Rublev has yet to successfully defend any of his 12 career titles but can take positives from his runner-up showing this week in Dubai.

"I had great matches, great victories, I was supposed to lose in the second round," said Rublev, who saved five consecutive match points in his encounter with Alejandro Davidovich Fokina earlier in the week.

"But in the end I found a way to be alive until the final, and then Daniil destroyed me tonight.&nbsp;

"Only four games, I don't know how he's doing that, three titles in a row, it's my first final of the season, I told him I'm completely destroyed and he won three titles in a row.&nbsp;

"I think I never said this to Daniil face to face, but I have huge, huge respect for him."

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Daniil Medvedev conquered all remaining doubts as he completed an impressive hat-trick, picking up a third title in as many weeks with a 6-2, 6-2 victory over Andrey Rublev in the Dubai final on Saturday.

Daniil Medvedev conquered all remaining doubts as he completed an impressive hat-trick, picking up a third title in as many weeks with a 6-2, 6-2 victory over Andrey Rublev in the Dubai final on Saturday. "Not over yet," scribbled the third-seeded Medvedev on the TV camera lens after his triumph, referring to his current 14-match winning streak amassed over the last 19 days, starting with the title in Rotterdam, followed by Doha and now Dubai. "It's amazing because the start of the year was not perfect; in tennis, when you don't win tournaments you're always doubting no matter what happens in practice,” said Medvedev, who briefly dropped out of the top 10 last month before recovering in tremendous fashion. "I was doubting a lot and now it just feels better. I'm really happy with these three weeks and I'm looking forward to the next ones." Playing free-flowing tennis throughout the week, which earned him a coveted victory over world number one Novak Djokovic in the semi-finals before ending Rublev's title defence in the final, Medvedev fired a total of 119 winners through five matches, including 27 in the championship decider. "A lot of shots this tournament were landing, which were maybe not supposed to be, and that's when confidence is going sometimes, so that helps a lot," said Medvedev, who has now won his last four consecutive matches against top-10 opposition after losing nine in a row. Rublev was the victor in his previous two clashes with Medvedev coming in, but had no answers for his compatriot on Saturday. He tried to venture up to the net, moving forward on 18 occasions, but was only successful on 12 of those approaches as Medvedev punished him from the back of the court. "I think it was a very tactical match, I know that Andrey can cause a lot of troubles for everyone on tour. So for sure every time we play he tries to make me suffer, I try to make him suffer. "Today I managed to be on top, but next matches could be a different story,” said Medvedev, who leads his childhood friend 5-2 head-to-head in tour-level meetings. Medvedev starts quickly Former world number one Medvedev put Rublev under pressure on serve from the start, and the No.2 seed had to come up with a courageous volley winner to fend off a first break point in the opening game. But Medvedev still found a way as he carved a 3-1 opening. Rublev saved two break points to hold in game five but Medvedev still widened the gap with some exceptional returning two games later for a 5-2 advantage. Medvedev confidently served out the opening set to take secure a one-set lead in 36 minutes. The 2021 US Open champion had dropped serve just twice all week and he kept that statistic intact in the final. The 27-year-old blasted a forehand winner to break for 3-2 in the second set and he consolidated with ease as he marched towards victory shortly after. Rublev has yet to successfully defend any of his 12 career titles but can take positives from his runner-up showing this week in Dubai. "I had great matches, great victories, I was supposed to lose in the second round," said Rublev, who saved five consecutive match points in his encounter with Alejandro Davidovich Fokina earlier in the week. "But in the end I found a way to be alive until the final, and then Daniil destroyed me tonight. "Only four games, I don't know how he's doing that, three titles in a row, it's my first final of the season, I told him I'm completely destroyed and he won three titles in a row. "I think I never said this to Daniil face to face, but I have huge, huge respect for 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.

Daniil Medvedev beats Andrey Rublev to win Dubai title

Daniil Medvedev handed Novak Djokovic his first defeat of the year, beating the world number one 6-4, 6-4 on Friday to reach the Dubai Tennis Championships final where he plays holder Andrey Rublev for a third title in as many weeks.

In a contest where the players put their early season win streaks on the line, it was Rotterdam and Doha champion Medvedev who drew first blood by breaking an error-prone Djokovic twice and closed out the first set with a searing forehand.

Playing in his first tournament since winning the Adelaide and Australian Open titles, Djokovic has hardly put a foot wrong barring a small scare in his opener against Tomas Machac. The 35-year-old had his moments and looked the better player after going down 2-5 in the opening set but he dropped his serve again early in the second after hitting a return long.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-number-one-novak-djokovic-pain-free-as-he-prepares-for-return-in-dubai-566475">World number one Novak Djokovic 'pain-free' as he prepares for return in Dubai</a>

It was the opening Medvedev could have only dreamed of in his bid to claim a fifth win over Djokovic in 14 matches and the Russian pounced for a 4-2 lead after some high-octane tennis. Former U.S. Open champion Medvedev peeled away further with an ace for a crucial hold and sealed a 13th straight win in his next service game.

"When you play Novak you just have to play your best and hope he doesn't on the day because when he does... he has 22 Grand Slams so it's going to be tough and it's not certain you'll win," Medvedev said. "I'm happy I managed to play at a higher level than him... I stayed composed and I'm really happy to be in the final.

"I was feeling great before this match but feeling a little worse now. Every time you play Novak, it's physically tough. A lot of rallies. It was more humid today and he wasn't happy sweating, I wasn't happy sweating. "We always have tough battles and I'm looking forward to the next one," he added.

Daniil Medvedev handed Novak Djokovic his first defeat of the year, beating the world number one 6-4, 6-4 on Friday to reach the Dubai Tennis Championships final where he plays holder Andrey Rublev for a third title in as many weeks.

Daniil Medvedev handed Novak Djokovic his first defeat of the year, beating the world number one 6-4, 6-4 on Friday to reach the Dubai Tennis Championships final where he plays holder Andrey Rublev for a third title in as many weeks. In a contest where the players put their early season win streaks on the line, it was Rotterdam and Doha champion Medvedev who drew first blood by breaking an error-prone Djokovic twice and closed out the first set with a searing forehand. Playing in his first tournament since winning the Adelaide and Australian Open titles, Djokovic has hardly put a foot wrong barring a small scare in his opener against Tomas Machac. The 35-year-old had his moments and looked the better player after going down 2-5 in the opening set but he dropped his serve again early in the second after hitting a return long. ALSO READ: World number one Novak Djokovic 'pain-free' as he prepares for return in Dubai It was the opening Medvedev could have only dreamed of in his bid to claim a fifth win over Djokovic in 14 matches and the Russian pounced for a 4-2 lead after some high-octane tennis. Former U.S. Open champion Medvedev peeled away further with an ace for a crucial hold and sealed a 13th straight win in his next service game. "When you play Novak you just have to play your best and hope he doesn't on the day because when he does... he has 22 Grand Slams so it's going to be tough and it's not certain you'll win," Medvedev said. "I'm happy I managed to play at a higher level than him... I stayed composed and I'm really happy to be in the final. "I was feeling great before this match but feeling a little worse now. Every time you play Novak, it's physically tough. A lot of rallies. It was more humid today and he wasn't happy sweating, I wasn't happy sweating. "We always have tough battles and I'm looking forward to the next one," he added.

Daniil Medvedev ends Novak Djokovic's purple patch at Dubai Tennis Championships, enters final

Sebastian Korda stunned two-time losing finalist Daniil Medvedev at the Australian Open on Friday, adding the Russian to a growing list of top seeds crashing out early.

The 31st-ranked American, son of 1998 Australian Open champion Petr Korda, blasted past the seventh seed 7-6 (9/7), 6-3, 7-6 (7/4) on Rod Laver Arena to race into the last 16.

Korda's upset teed up a clash with Polish 10th seed Hubert Hurkacz who battled past Canada's Denis Shapovalov 7-6 (7/3), 6-4, 1-6, 4-6, 6-3 - for a place in the quarter-finals.

"An unbelievable match, I sort of knew what I had to do and I stuck with it even when I was going up and down with the emotions," said the 22-year-old Korda, adding that his game plan was "just go for it".

Medvedev was a losing finalist at the last two Australian Opens, to Novak Djokovic in 2021 and then in a demoralising five-set defeat 12 months ago against Rafael Nadal after leading by two sets.

He was attempting to become only the fourth man in the Open era to reach three consecutive Melbourne Park finals after Djokovic, Mats Wilander, and Ivan Lendl.&nbsp;

But that quest is now over as he joined defending champion Nadal, second seed Casper Ruud and eighth seed Taylor Fritz as high-profile first-week casualties at the season-opening Grand Slam.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-defending-champion-rafael-nadal-crashes-out-in-straight-sets-553694" target="_blank">Read more: Australian Open: Defending champion Rafael Nadal crashes out in straight sets</a>

Djokovic remains in the hunt for a 10th title, but has a hamstring injury and confessed on Thursday he was "worried" it could derail his tournament.

Korda displayed his credentials when he pushed Djokovic to the brink in the Adelaide International final this month, earning a championship point before the Serb rallied to win in three close sets.

The Florida native bounced back to claim a pair of victories in Melbourne against Cristian Garin and Yosuke Watanuki before meeting former world number one Medvedev.

Korda started aggressively, earning four break points in an 11-minute opening game before putting one away to take an early edge.

The Russian had minor treatment on his right hand at the changeover before Korda consolidated for 2-0.

The American dominated from the baseline in some lung-busting rallies and broke again for 4-1 before the Russian came roaring back with two breaks to level it up at 4-4.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/another-top-seed-casualty-in-australian-open-as-casper-ruud-crashes-in-second-round-554053">Read more:&nbsp;Another top seed casualty in Australian Open as Casper Ruud crashes in second round</a>

It went to a thrilling tiebreak with Korda converting on his third set point after an 85-minute slugfest.

Korda, coached by former Czech star Radek Stepanek, broke early again in the second set with Medvedev having no answers this time.

He began the third in the same vein, breaking immediately as the Russian wilted under the onslaught.&nbsp;

Medvedev again rallied to take it to another tiebreak before exiting the tournament at the earliest stage since 2018.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Sebastian Korda stunned two-time losing finalist Daniil Medvedev at the Australian Open on Friday, adding the Russian to a growing list of top seeds crashing out early.

Sebastian Korda stunned two-time losing finalist Daniil Medvedev at the Australian Open on Friday, adding the Russian to a growing list of top seeds crashing out early. The 31st-ranked American, son of 1998 Australian Open champion Petr Korda, blasted past the seventh seed 7-6 (9/7), 6-3, 7-6 (7/4) on Rod Laver Arena to race into the last 16. Korda's upset teed up a clash with Polish 10th seed Hubert Hurkacz who battled past Canada's Denis Shapovalov 7-6 (7/3), 6-4, 1-6, 4-6, 6-3 - for a place in the quarter-finals. "An unbelievable match, I sort of knew what I had to do and I stuck with it even when I was going up and down with the emotions," said the 22-year-old Korda, adding that his game plan was "just go for it". Medvedev was a losing finalist at the last two Australian Opens, to Novak Djokovic in 2021 and then in a demoralising five-set defeat 12 months ago against Rafael Nadal after leading by two sets. He was attempting to become only the fourth man in the Open era to reach three consecutive Melbourne Park finals after Djokovic, Mats Wilander, and Ivan Lendl. But that quest is now over as he joined defending champion Nadal, second seed Casper Ruud and eighth seed Taylor Fritz as high-profile first-week casualties at the season-opening Grand Slam. Read more: Australian Open: Defending champion Rafael Nadal crashes out in straight sets Djokovic remains in the hunt for a 10th title, but has a hamstring injury and confessed on Thursday he was "worried" it could derail his tournament. Korda displayed his credentials when he pushed Djokovic to the brink in the Adelaide International final this month, earning a championship point before the Serb rallied to win in three close sets. The Florida native bounced back to claim a pair of victories in Melbourne against Cristian Garin and Yosuke Watanuki before meeting former world number one Medvedev. Korda started aggressively, earning four break points in an 11-minute opening game before putting one away to take an early edge. The Russian had minor treatment on his right hand at the changeover before Korda consolidated for 2-0. The American dominated from the baseline in some lung-busting rallies and broke again for 4-1 before the Russian came roaring back with two breaks to level it up at 4-4. Read more: Another top seed casualty in Australian Open as Casper Ruud crashes in second round It went to a thrilling tiebreak with Korda converting on his third set point after an 85-minute slugfest. Korda, coached by former Czech star Radek Stepanek, broke early again in the second set with Medvedev having no answers this time. He began the third in the same vein, breaking immediately as the Russian wilted under the onslaught. Medvedev again rallied to take it to another tiebreak before exiting the tournament at the earliest stage since 2018. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Australian Open: Two-time finalist Daniil Medvedev crashes out in straight sets

An irrepressible Daniil Medvedev overcame a partisan crowd and tough veteran John Millman to march a step closer towards a third consecutive Australian Open final on Wednesday.

The Russian seventh seed, who lost the 2021 decider at Melbourne Park to Novak Djokovic and then against Rafael Nadal last year, battled past the Australian wildcard entry 7-5, 6-2, 6-2 on Margaret Court Arena.

He next meets either dangerous American Sebastian Korda, who made the Adelaide International final this month, or Japanese qualifier Yosuke Watanuki.

Medvedev is on the same side of the draw as Nadal and was scheduled to meet him in the last eight.

But with the Spaniard's shock defeat Wednesday to Mackenzie McDonald, his route to a third straight final has opened up.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-defending-champion-rafael-nadal-crashes-out-in-straight-sets-553694" target="_blank">Read more: Australian Open: Defending champion Rafael Nadal crashes out in straight sets</a>

"It was a great match. Even the score in the second and third sets doesn't reflect everything that went on the court," said the Russian.

"He managed to break me three times in the first set, which doesn't happen very often. I'm a bit disappointed in myself, but he played amazing."

The Russian dropped just three games in the demolition of Marcos Giron in the first round, but met stiffer resistance initially from Millman, with plenty of long rallies.

They went toe-to-toe in the first set with both players struggling on serve before the world number eight broke for a fourth time to seal the set.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cant-say-im-not-destroyed-rafael-nadal-after-shock-australian-open-exit-553765">Read more:&nbsp;'Can’t say I’m not destroyed...': Rafael Nadal after shock Australian Open exit</a>

Medvedev moved up a gear in the second set, and when Millman netted a backhand to give him a 2-1 advantage he put his foot to the floor to take full control.

There was no way back for the Australian, with Medvedev in the zone as he raced to victory.

"Physically for both of us it was tough," said Medvedev, who is bidding to become just the fourth man in the Open era to reach three consecutive Australian Open finals, after Djokovic, Mats Wilander and Ivan Lendl.&nbsp;

"But I felt amazing."

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

An irrepressible Daniil Medvedev overcame a partisan crowd and tough veteran John Millman to march a step closer towards a third consecutive Australian Open final on Wednesday.

An irrepressible Daniil Medvedev overcame a partisan crowd and tough veteran John Millman to march a step closer towards a third consecutive Australian Open final on Wednesday. The Russian seventh seed, who lost the 2021 decider at Melbourne Park to Novak Djokovic and then against Rafael Nadal last year, battled past the Australian wildcard entry 7-5, 6-2, 6-2 on Margaret Court Arena. He next meets either dangerous American Sebastian Korda, who made the Adelaide International final this month, or Japanese qualifier Yosuke Watanuki. Medvedev is on the same side of the draw as Nadal and was scheduled to meet him in the last eight. But with the Spaniard's shock defeat Wednesday to Mackenzie McDonald, his route to a third straight final has opened up. Read more: Australian Open: Defending champion Rafael Nadal crashes out in straight sets "It was a great match. Even the score in the second and third sets doesn't reflect everything that went on the court," said the Russian. "He managed to break me three times in the first set, which doesn't happen very often. I'm a bit disappointed in myself, but he played amazing." The Russian dropped just three games in the demolition of Marcos Giron in the first round, but met stiffer resistance initially from Millman, with plenty of long rallies. They went toe-to-toe in the first set with both players struggling on serve before the world number eight broke for a fourth time to seal the set. Read more: 'Can’t say I’m not destroyed...': Rafael Nadal after shock Australian Open exit Medvedev moved up a gear in the second set, and when Millman netted a backhand to give him a 2-1 advantage he put his foot to the floor to take full control. There was no way back for the Australian, with Medvedev in the zone as he raced to victory. "Physically for both of us it was tough," said Medvedev, who is bidding to become just the fourth man in the Open era to reach three consecutive Australian Open finals, after Djokovic, Mats Wilander and Ivan Lendl. "But I felt amazing." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Daniil Medvedev inches closer to a third consecutive Australian Open final

21-time Grand Slam winner Serbian Novak Djokovic suffered an injury scare a few days before the start of the 2023 Australian Open. Novak pulled his hamstring while playing against Daniil Medvedev in a practice match at the famous Rod Laver Arena on Wednesday. The&nbsp;nine-time Australian Open champion will be returning to the hardcourt event this year after missing out on participating in it in 2022 because of his vaccination status. Novak, who suffered a hamstring injury at the Adelaide International 1 last week, played for under 40 minutes against Medvedev before withdrawing.

Speaking with Sky Sports, Novak said he could feel his hamstring getting pulled and he immediately thought of not continuing further as he didn't want to risk anything.

"I just felt it pulling and I didn't want to risk anything worse. I played a set and apologised to him [Medvedev] and he was understanding. I just want to avoid any bigger scares before the Australian Open," Djokovic told Sky Sports.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/naomi-osaka-announces-pregnancy-after-withdrawing-from-australian-open-sets-eye-on-a-2024-return-551706">Naomi Osaka announces pregnancy after withdrawing from Australian Open, sets eye on a 2024 return</a>

The past week Novak won the Adelaide International 1 beating Sebastian Korda 6-7(8) 7-6(3) 6-4 in a hard-fought final. This win in the lead up to the first Slam of the year helped Novak equal Rafael Nadal's tally of 92 singles titles in open era, with only Ivan Lendl (94), Roger Federer (103) and Jimmy Connors (109) ahead of them.

Seeded 4th at the 2023 Australian Open, Novak will aim to win his record tenth title this time. If he gets successful, he will go level with top-seeded Rafael Nadal&nbsp;with 23 Grand Slams. In the absence of world number one Carlos Alcaraz, Novak will fancy his chances of claiming top prize.

The 2023 Australian Open will take place in Melbourne from January 16th to 29th.

21-time Grand Slam winner Serbian Novak Djokovic suffered an injury scare a few days before the start of the 2023 Australian Open. Novak pulled his hamstring while playing against Daniil Medvedev in a practice match at the famous Rod Laver Arena on Wednesday.

21-time Grand Slam winner Serbian Novak Djokovic suffered an injury scare a few days before the start of the 2023 Australian Open. Novak pulled his hamstring while playing against Daniil Medvedev in a practice match at the famous Rod Laver Arena on Wednesday. The nine-time Australian Open champion will be returning to the hardcourt event this year after missing out on participating in it in 2022 because of his vaccination status. Novak, who suffered a hamstring injury at the Adelaide International 1 last week, played for under 40 minutes against Medvedev before withdrawing. Speaking with Sky Sports, Novak said he could feel his hamstring getting pulled and he immediately thought of not continuing further as he didn't want to risk anything. "I just felt it pulling and I didn't want to risk anything worse. I played a set and apologised to him [Medvedev] and he was understanding. I just want to avoid any bigger scares before the Australian Open," Djokovic told Sky Sports. ALSO READ: Naomi Osaka announces pregnancy after withdrawing from Australian Open, sets eye on a 2024 return The past week Novak won the Adelaide International 1 beating Sebastian Korda 6-7(8) 7-6(3) 6-4 in a hard-fought final. This win in the lead up to the first Slam of the year helped Novak equal Rafael Nadal's tally of 92 singles titles in open era, with only Ivan Lendl (94), Roger Federer (103) and Jimmy Connors (109) ahead of them. Seeded 4th at the 2023 Australian Open, Novak will aim to win his record tenth title this time. If he gets successful, he will go level with top-seeded Rafael Nadal with 23 Grand Slams. In the absence of world number one Carlos Alcaraz, Novak will fancy his chances of claiming top prize. The 2023 Australian Open will take place in Melbourne from January 16th to 29th.

Serbian Novak Djokovic suffers injury scare ahead of 2023 Australian Open; pulls hamstring in training

2022 was an action-packed season for tennis lovers. It started with Novak Djokovic's Covid vaccination row at the Australian Open before Rafael Nadal won the French Open. The likes of Elena Rybakina and Iga Swiatek also tasted success&nbsp;in women's singles.&nbsp;While the year saw the rise of Carlos Alcaraz -- winning the US Open -- it was also a witness to the retirement of Roger Federer, Serena Williams, Ashleigh Barty, etc. After lots that took place in 2022, a&nbsp;new tennis season has already kicked off and the games are coming thick and fast in 2023; with the Tata Open (in Pune) and the Australian Open which will commence on January 16.

Talking about the Tata Open, the reigning US Open champions Rajeev Ram and Joe Salisbury are currently plying their trade at the event, being held in&nbsp;Pune. The pair have been a force to reckon with in recent years and will like to remain consistent and go a step ahead in 2023. After a Round of 16 victory in the Tata Open, where Rajeev-Joe went past Sebastian Baez-Luis David Martinez 6-3, 7-6 (7-1), Rajeev had an exclusive interaction with WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo. The American player spoke at length on the emergence of young talents, the retirement of stalwarts and on Novak Djokovic ahead of the Australian Open. Excerpts:

Rajeev a very happy new year to you and considering your Indian roots this must be a memorable experience returning to India to play and that too as the top seed.

Happy New Year to you as well. I've been in India for quite some time, since 2016. Covid had a major role to play in it. Happy to be in Pune. Never been here so it is good.&nbsp;

Tennis saw three high-profile retirements in 2022 with Roger Federer, Serena Williams and before them Ashleigh Barty. with Rafael Nadal one is not sure how much more punishment that battered body can take...Nadal and Djokovic did win three of the four slams last year but has the baton been officially passed?

I don't think it is really past yet. I honestly believe if Novak was playing in Australia, Wimbledon had points and if he was allowed to play US Open, he would have been the No. 1 ranked player to date. He showed his class again in the ATP Tour finals. He played so little last year but still was able to keep such a high ranking. It is getting there (for the young guns) but I don't think Djokovic is ready to give&nbsp;up just yet.

Obviously, when we factor in the 2022 season we have to remember that Djokovic didn't play as much as he would have liked. Let's leave his vaccination beliefs aside and focus only on the phenomenal player that he is. You saw him at the tour finals and do you get the feeling that he is going to carry a lot of hurt into the Australian Open and is the player to beat?

He's the player to beat. I'm guessing he has won 8-9 times there.&nbsp;He is so difficult on that surface&nbsp;and everybody will agree that he is the guy to beat there for sure, even if his ranking is not No 1.

A lot of players will also head into the Aus open thinking hang on, we were the next gen but it's Alcaraz who has seized the initiative...the likes of Medvedev, Tsitsipas, Zverev face a defining season don't you think?

I think you have seen this generation of Federer, Nadal, Murray and Djokovic have eaten up a few generations. I don't think Medvedev, Tsitsipas and the likes are done by any stretch but I think they know they have such young talents on their heels and that will make for a super competitive 4-5 years when Djokovic and Nadal did. Don't think it will be like the last few years where only a few guys have dominated. I think it will be very competitive and refreshing in that sense.

Before I close this, what will be a good season for you personally, something you would be happy with coming December this year?

Winning slams always make a great year. We have managed to do that for the last 2-3 years in a row so hopefully, that's a start. Becoming the No. 1 team in the world is something we haven't achieved. We have been No. 2 for quite some time. Those two things are at the top of the list. Everything else will follow through.

2022 was an action-packed season for tennis lovers. It started with Novak Djokovic's Covid vaccination row at the Australian Open before Rafael Nadal won the French Open.

2022 was an action-packed season for tennis lovers. It started with Novak Djokovic's Covid vaccination row at the Australian Open before Rafael Nadal won the French Open. The likes of Elena Rybakina and Iga Swiatek also tasted success in women's singles. While the year saw the rise of Carlos Alcaraz -- winning the US Open -- it was also a witness to the retirement of Roger Federer, Serena Williams, Ashleigh Barty, etc. After lots that took place in 2022, a new tennis season has already kicked off and the games are coming thick and fast in 2023; with the Tata Open (in Pune) and the Australian Open which will commence on January 16. Talking about the Tata Open, the reigning US Open champions Rajeev Ram and Joe Salisbury are currently plying their trade at the event, being held in Pune. The pair have been a force to reckon with in recent years and will like to remain consistent and go a step ahead in 2023. After a Round of 16 victory in the Tata Open, where Rajeev-Joe went past Sebastian Baez-Luis David Martinez 6-3, 7-6 (7-1), Rajeev had an exclusive interaction with WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo. The American player spoke at length on the emergence of young talents, the retirement of stalwarts and on Novak Djokovic ahead of the Australian Open. Excerpts: Rajeev a very happy new year to you and considering your Indian roots this must be a memorable experience returning to India to play and that too as the top seed. Happy New Year to you as well. I've been in India for quite some time, since 2016. Covid had a major role to play in it. Happy to be in Pune. Never been here so it is good. Tennis saw three high-profile retirements in 2022 with Roger Federer, Serena Williams and before them Ashleigh Barty. with Rafael Nadal one is not sure how much more punishment that battered body can take...Nadal and Djokovic did win three of the four slams last year but has the baton been officially passed? I don't think it is really past yet. I honestly believe if Novak was playing in Australia, Wimbledon had points and if he was allowed to play US Open, he would have been the No. 1 ranked player to date. He showed his class again in the ATP Tour finals. He played so little last year but still was able to keep such a high ranking. It is getting there (for the young guns) but I don't think Djokovic is ready to give up just yet. Obviously, when we factor in the 2022 season we have to remember that Djokovic didn't play as much as he would have liked. Let's leave his vaccination beliefs aside and focus only on the phenomenal player that he is. You saw him at the tour finals and do you get the feeling that he is going to carry a lot of hurt into the Australian Open and is the player to beat? He's the player to beat. I'm guessing he has won 8-9 times there. He is so difficult on that surface and everybody will agree that he is the guy to beat there for sure, even if his ranking is not No 1. A lot of players will also head into the Aus open thinking hang on, we were the next gen but it's Alcaraz who has seized the initiative...the likes of Medvedev, Tsitsipas, Zverev face a defining season don't you think? I think you have seen this generation of Federer, Nadal, Murray and Djokovic have eaten up a few generations. I don't think Medvedev, Tsitsipas and the likes are done by any stretch but I think they know they have such young talents on their heels and that will make for a super competitive 4-5 years when Djokovic and Nadal did. Don't think it will be like the last few years where only a few guys have dominated. I think it will be very competitive and refreshing in that sense. Before I close this, what will be a good season for you personally, something you would be happy with coming December this year? Winning slams always make a great year. We have managed to do that for the last 2-3 years in a row so hopefully, that's a start. Becoming the No. 1 team in the world is something we haven't achieved. We have been No. 2 for quite some time. Those two things are at the top of the list. Everything else will follow through.

Exclusive: Even if Novak Djokovic is not No 1, he's the guy to beat, says Rajeev Ram ahead of Aus Open

Daniil Medvedev said he needed a long time to recover from his loss to Rafael Nadal in last year's Australian Open final, but the Russian vowed to use his experiences to reach a higher level in 2023 as he gears up for the season's first Grand Slam. Medvedev was up two sets when Nadal pulled off a comeback for the ages by sealing a 2-6 6-7(5) 6-4 6-4 7-5 victory in a thrilling final at Rod Laver Arena to deny his opponent his second major crown.

"I felt absolutely terrible... the thing about life and tennis is that you have to get over it, try to learn from it because you can't change the past," Medvedev told reporters on Sunday, before the Adelaide International 1 tournament. "I had some tough moments in my career... tough losses -- I know a lot of losses in a row and I always managed to find a way back, so I'm sure I'm going to find the way back to an even higher level than I was playing maybe last year.

"But yeah, the match was not easy to get over for some time, but right now I'm looking forward to the Australian Open again, and I want to do better than last year. That's the goal."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pl-arsenal-end-2022-in-pole-position-with-4-2-win-over-brighton-champions-manchester-city-held-to-1-1-draw-548461">PL: Arsenal end 2022 in pole position with 4-2 win over Brighton, champions Manchester City held to 1-1 draw</a>

After losing to Nadal at Melbourne Park, Medvedev exited the French Open in the fourth round, while a ban on Russian players at Wimbledon due to Moscow's invasion of Ukraine forced him to miss the grasscourt major. His title defence at the U.S. Open ended following a fourth-round defeat by Australian Nick Kyrgios and the 26-year-old went on to lose his number one ranking.

Teenager Carlos Alcaraz ended 2022 as the top-ranked player and Medvedev said the men's field looked as strong as ever with the emergence of new faces in the top 10.

"I think it's always difficult because it's always some new players that come in. Some old ones are maybe playing a little bit worse, but they're coming back... Carlos is number one in the world now, playing amazing," Medvedev said.

Medvedev will open his season against Italian Lorenzo Sonego in the Adelaide ATP 250 event with a potential semi-final clash with 21-times Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic.

Daniil Medvedev said he needed a long time to recover from his loss to Rafael Nadal in last year's Australian Open final, but the Russian vowed to use his experiences to reach a higher level in 2023 as he gears up for the season's first Grand Slam.

Daniil Medvedev said he needed a long time to recover from his loss to Rafael Nadal in last year's Australian Open final, but the Russian vowed to use his experiences to reach a higher level in 2023 as he gears up for the season's first Grand Slam. Medvedev was up two sets when Nadal pulled off a comeback for the ages by sealing a 2-6 6-7(5) 6-4 6-4 7-5 victory in a thrilling final at Rod Laver Arena to deny his opponent his second major crown. "I felt absolutely terrible... the thing about life and tennis is that you have to get over it, try to learn from it because you can't change the past," Medvedev told reporters on Sunday, before the Adelaide International 1 tournament. "I had some tough moments in my career... tough losses -- I know a lot of losses in a row and I always managed to find a way back, so I'm sure I'm going to find the way back to an even higher level than I was playing maybe last year. "But yeah, the match was not easy to get over for some time, but right now I'm looking forward to the Australian Open again, and I want to do better than last year. That's the goal." ALSO READ: PL: Arsenal end 2022 in pole position with 4-2 win over Brighton, champions Manchester City held to 1-1 draw After losing to Nadal at Melbourne Park, Medvedev exited the French Open in the fourth round, while a ban on Russian players at Wimbledon due to Moscow's invasion of Ukraine forced him to miss the grasscourt major. His title defence at the U.S. Open ended following a fourth-round defeat by Australian Nick Kyrgios and the 26-year-old went on to lose his number one ranking. Teenager Carlos Alcaraz ended 2022 as the top-ranked player and Medvedev said the men's field looked as strong as ever with the emergence of new faces in the top 10. "I think it's always difficult because it's always some new players that come in. Some old ones are maybe playing a little bit worse, but they're coming back... Carlos is number one in the world now, playing amazing," Medvedev said. Medvedev will open his season against Italian Lorenzo Sonego in the Adelaide ATP 250 event with a potential semi-final clash with 21-times Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic.

I found it hard to deal with tough losses in my career - Daniil Medvedev

The action continues in the ATP Tour Finals as 21-time Grand Slam winner Novak Djokovic will face Russia's Daniil Medvedev in the round-robin stage on Friday (November 18)&nbsp;at the Pala Alpitour in Turin, Italy. Both the heavyweights have had a contrasting run in the competition. While Djokovic is through to the semi-finals, Medvedev has crashed out after losing his first two games. Thus, he will am for a consolation win whereas Djokovic will be eager to go ahead with a winning momentum.

Talking about Djokovic, he&nbsp;won the opening game against Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets, 6-4 &amp; 6-7. In the following encounter, he went past&nbsp;Andrey Rublev, also in straight sets, by 6-4 &amp; 6-1. On the other hand, the fifth-seeded Medvedev didn't impress and is already out of the semi-final race with twin defeats. In head-to-head, Djokovic leads Medvedev 7-4.&nbsp;

Here's the live-streaming details of the ATP Tour Finals 2022&nbsp;match between Djokovic and&nbsp;Medvedev:

Where is the Novak Djokovic vs Daniil Medvedev ATP Tour Finals match taking place?

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-finals-taylor-fritz-reaches-semi-finals-spaniard-rafael-nadal-signs-off-with-win-535283">ATP Finals: Taylor Fritz reaches semi-finals, Spaniard Rafael Nadal signs off with win</a>

The Djokovic vs&nbsp;Medvedev ATP Tour Finals match&nbsp;will be held in Pala Alpitour in Turin, Italy.

When will the&nbsp;Novak Djokovic vs Daniil Medvedev ATP Tour Finals third-round&nbsp;encounter kick-off?

The Djokovic vs&nbsp;Medvedev ATP Tour Finals match will kick-off at 6:30 PM IST on Friday (November 18).

Which TV channels will broadcast the Novak Djokovic vs Daniil Medvedev ATP Tour Finals&nbsp;encounter?

The&nbsp;Djokovic vs&nbsp;Medvedev ATP Tour Finals showdown's broadcast will be available on Sports18 TV channel in India.&nbsp;

How to watch the live streaming of the Novak Djokovic vs Daniil Medvedev ATP Tour Finals encounter?

The live streaming of the&nbsp;Djokovic vs&nbsp;Medvedev ATP Tour Finals clash&nbsp;will be on Voot app&nbsp;.

The action continues in the ATP Tour Finals as 21-time Grand Slam winner Novak Djokovic will face Russia's Daniil Medvedev in the round-robin stage on Friday (November 18) at the Pala Alpitour in Turin, Italy.

The action continues in the ATP Tour Finals as 21-time Grand Slam winner Novak Djokovic will face Russia's Daniil Medvedev in the round-robin stage on Friday (November 18) at the Pala Alpitour in Turin, Italy. Both the heavyweights have had a contrasting run in the competition. While Djokovic is through to the semi-finals, Medvedev has crashed out after losing his first two games. Thus, he will am for a consolation win whereas Djokovic will be eager to go ahead with a winning momentum. Talking about Djokovic, he won the opening game against Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets, 6-4 & 6-7. In the following encounter, he went past Andrey Rublev, also in straight sets, by 6-4 & 6-1. On the other hand, the fifth-seeded Medvedev didn't impress and is already out of the semi-final race with twin defeats. In head-to-head, Djokovic leads Medvedev 7-4. Here's the live-streaming details of the ATP Tour Finals 2022 match between Djokovic and Medvedev: Where is the Novak Djokovic vs Daniil Medvedev ATP Tour Finals match taking place? Also read: ATP Finals: Taylor Fritz reaches semi-finals, Spaniard Rafael Nadal signs off with win The Djokovic vs Medvedev ATP Tour Finals match will be held in Pala Alpitour in Turin, Italy. When will the Novak Djokovic vs Daniil Medvedev ATP Tour Finals third-round encounter kick-off? The Djokovic vs Medvedev ATP Tour Finals match will kick-off at 6:30 PM IST on Friday (November 18). Which TV channels will broadcast the Novak Djokovic vs Daniil Medvedev ATP Tour Finals encounter? The Djokovic vs Medvedev ATP Tour Finals showdown's broadcast will be available on Sports18 TV channel in India. How to watch the live streaming of the Novak Djokovic vs Daniil Medvedev ATP Tour Finals encounter? The live streaming of the Djokovic vs Medvedev ATP Tour Finals clash will be on Voot app .

Novak Djokovic vs Daniil Medvedev, Live streaming: When and where to watch ATP Tour Finals match?

daniil-medvedev

Daniil Medvedev, News on Daniil Medvedev, stories on Daniil Medvedev, articles on Daniil Medvedev, Daniil Medvedev stories at Wion, Daniil Medvedev news, Daniil Medvedev latest news

daniil medvedev