Serena Williams made a slow but successful start Monday to her latest pursuit of a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title at Roland Garros while US Open winner Dominic Thiem navigated a testing first-round tie against former major champion Marin Cilic.

The American star is chasing an elusive 24th Grand Slam title to match Margaret Court's all-time mark, but clay is her least favoured surface.

An error-prone beginning from Williams left world number 102 Kristie Ahn serving for the first set before the three-time Roland Garros champion prevailed 7-6 (7/2), 6-0.

Williams, playing at the French Open for the 18th time, dropped serve twice as Ahn moved 5-4 ahead in the opener in a rematch of their first-round encounter at Flushing Meadows.

But the sixth seed forced a tie-break that she sealed with an ace after a 74-minute slog before charging to an ultimately comfortable victory.

"She played very well in the first set, it wasn't easy for me and she hit a lot of winners," said Williams. "It was important for me to stay focused."

Williams, seeded sixth here, has not gone beyond the last 16 in Paris since her defeat to Garbine Muguruza in the 2016 final. Her last major came at the 2017 Australian Open while pregnant.

Meanwhile Thiem, the runner-up to Rafael Nadal in Paris the past two years, defeated 2014 US Open champion Cilic 6-4, 6-3, 6-3 in their second meeting at a major this month.

"My level was good. I was very happy with the way I played from the beginning to the end basically," said Thiem.

Having captured his maiden Slam in New York, Thiem is trying to become the only man in the Open era to win his first two majors at successive tournaments.

A steady display from Thiem saw the Austrian break Cilic six times under the roof of Court Philippe Chatrier on another gloomy day at Roland Garros, pushed back from its customary May-June slot due to the coronavirus pandemic.

"I really love this tournament, it's by far my best Grand Slam tournament so far," said Thiem, who plays American qualifier Jack Sock in the second round.

"I'm from Austria so I know how it is to play in these cold conditions. I love it when it's not too fast. I felt well from the first moment I came here."

<h2>Nadal faces 'most difficult' defence -</h2>

Nadal, on a mission to match Roger Federer's record of 20 major titles, arrives at the French Open short of preparation and unhappy with the tournament's choice of new balls.

"The conditions here are probably the most difficult conditions for me ever at Roland Garros for so many different facts," said Nadal, who won the first of his 12 French Open titles in 2005.

"The ball is completely different. It is super slow, heavy. It's also very cold, slow conditions."

Nadal has been beaten just twice in 95 matches at the tournament but now must adjust to the unusual autumnal chill in Paris.&nbsp;

The heavier atmosphere could negate some of Nadal's lethal topspin as he heads into the event without a clay title under his belt for the first time.

However a first-time meeting with Egor Gerasimov, the world number 83 from Belarus, is unlikely to trouble him.

The competition began Sunday amid steady drizzle in temperatures struggling to reach 10 degrees (50F), conditions branded "ridiculous" by US Open finalist Victoria Azarenka. &nbsp;

Play on Monday was initially delayed by more persistent rain. Twice Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova defeated Oceane Dodin 6-3, 7-5 in the only match to start on time under the new roof on Court Philippe Chatrier.&nbsp;

Dutch fifth seed Kiki Bertens recovered from a poor start once conditions improved to overhaul 112th-ranked Ukrainian Katarina Zavatska 2-6, 6-2, 6-0.

Third seed Elina Svitolina scrapped past Varvara Gracheva of Russia 7-6 (7/2), 6-4 while last year's runner-up Marketa Vondrousova was bundled out 6-1, 6-2 by 2018 junior champion Iga Swiatek.

Overall prize money at this year's event is down 11 percent at 14,491,000 euros, but players beaten in the first round will receive 60,000 euros -- a 30 percent increase compared to 2019.&nbsp;

Serena Williams made a slow but successful start Monday to her latest pursuit of a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title at Roland Garros while US Open winner Dominic Thiem navigated a testing first-round tie against former major champion Marin Cilic.

Serena Williams made a slow but successful start Monday to her latest pursuit of a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title at Roland Garros while US Open winner Dominic Thiem navigated a testing first-round tie against former major champion Marin Cilic. The American star is chasing an elusive 24th Grand Slam title to match Margaret Court's all-time mark, but clay is her least favoured surface. An error-prone beginning from Williams left world number 102 Kristie Ahn serving for the first set before the three-time Roland Garros champion prevailed 7-6 (7/2), 6-0. Williams, playing at the French Open for the 18th time, dropped serve twice as Ahn moved 5-4 ahead in the opener in a rematch of their first-round encounter at Flushing Meadows. But the sixth seed forced a tie-break that she sealed with an ace after a 74-minute slog before charging to an ultimately comfortable victory. "She played very well in the first set, it wasn't easy for me and she hit a lot of winners," said Williams. "It was important for me to stay focused." Williams, seeded sixth here, has not gone beyond the last 16 in Paris since her defeat to Garbine Muguruza in the 2016 final. Her last major came at the 2017 Australian Open while pregnant. Meanwhile Thiem, the runner-up to Rafael Nadal in Paris the past two years, defeated 2014 US Open champion Cilic 6-4, 6-3, 6-3 in their second meeting at a major this month. "My level was good. I was very happy with the way I played from the beginning to the end basically," said Thiem. Having captured his maiden Slam in New York, Thiem is trying to become the only man in the Open era to win his first two majors at successive tournaments. A steady display from Thiem saw the Austrian break Cilic six times under the roof of Court Philippe Chatrier on another gloomy day at Roland Garros, pushed back from its customary May-June slot due to the coronavirus pandemic. "I really love this tournament, it's by far my best Grand Slam tournament so far," said Thiem, who plays American qualifier Jack Sock in the second round. "I'm from Austria so I know how it is to play in these cold conditions. I love it when it's not too fast. I felt well from the first moment I came here." Nadal faces 'most difficult' defence - Nadal, on a mission to match Roger Federer's record of 20 major titles, arrives at the French Open short of preparation and unhappy with the tournament's choice of new balls. "The conditions here are probably the most difficult conditions for me ever at Roland Garros for so many different facts," said Nadal, who won the first of his 12 French Open titles in 2005. "The ball is completely different. It is super slow, heavy. It's also very cold, slow conditions." Nadal has been beaten just twice in 95 matches at the tournament but now must adjust to the unusual autumnal chill in Paris. The heavier atmosphere could negate some of Nadal's lethal topspin as he heads into the event without a clay title under his belt for the first time. However a first-time meeting with Egor Gerasimov, the world number 83 from Belarus, is unlikely to trouble him. The competition began Sunday amid steady drizzle in temperatures struggling to reach 10 degrees (50F), conditions branded "ridiculous" by US Open finalist Victoria Azarenka. Play on Monday was initially delayed by more persistent rain. Twice Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova defeated Oceane Dodin 6-3, 7-5 in the only match to start on time under the new roof on Court Philippe Chatrier. Dutch fifth seed Kiki Bertens recovered from a poor start once conditions improved to overhaul 112th-ranked Ukrainian Katarina Zavatska 2-6, 6-2, 6-0. Third seed Elina Svitolina scrapped past Varvara Gracheva of Russia 7-6 (7/2), 6-4 while last year's runner-up Marketa Vondrousova was bundled out 6-1, 6-2 by 2018 junior champion Iga Swiatek. Overall prize money at this year's event is down 11 percent at 14,491,000 euros, but players beaten in the first round will receive 60,000 euros -- a 30 percent increase compared to 2019.

Serena Williams overcomes patchy French Open start as Thiem aces Cilic test

Austria’s Dominic Thiem became country's second Grand Slam singles champion as he defeated Alexander Zverev in the US Open final on Sunday.

After dropping the opening two sets against Alexander Zverev — Thiem slowly but surely turned things around for a 2-6, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 7-6 (6) victory across more than four hours to earn his first major championship, performing the greatest comeback in men's Major finals since Roland Garros 2004 to earn tennis glory.

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It marked the first time in the US Open's Open Era history that a player had recovered from losing the opening two sets to win the title.

The 27-year-old became the youngest Grand Slam champion and first maiden Grand Slam champion since Marin Cilic in 2014.&nbsp;

Thiem has played three Grand Slam finals - losing twice to Rafael Nadal in the French Open and once to Novak Djokovic in the Australian Open.

(With inputs from agencies)

Austria’s Dominic Thiem became country's second Grand Slam singles champion as he defeated Alexander Zverev in the US Open final on Sunday. After dropping the opening two sets against Alexander Zverev — Thiem slowly but surely turned things around for a 2-6, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 7-6 (6) victory across more than four hours to earn his first major championship, performing the greatest comeback in men's Major finals since Roland Garros 2004 to earn tennis glory.

Austria’s Dominic Thiem became country's second Grand Slam singles champion as he defeated Alexander Zverev in the US Open final on Sunday. After dropping the opening two sets against Alexander Zverev — Thiem slowly but surely turned things around for a 2-6, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 7-6 (6) victory across more than four hours to earn his first major championship, performing the greatest comeback in men's Major finals since Roland Garros 2004 to earn tennis glory. That winning feeling 😀@ThiemDomi I #USOpen pic.twitter.com/7Gy9SFaTJY — US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 14, 2020 × It marked the first time in the US Open's Open Era history that a player had recovered from losing the opening two sets to win the title. The 27-year-old became the youngest Grand Slam champion and first maiden Grand Slam champion since Marin Cilic in 2014. Thiem has played three Grand Slam finals - losing twice to Rafael Nadal in the French Open and once to Novak Djokovic in the Australian Open. (With inputs from agencies)

US Open 2020 men's final: Dominic Thiem wins first grand slam title

As US Open nears conclusion: Here are top five key moments of tournament!

Second-seeded Dominic Thiem thrashed Australia's Alex de Minaur in straight sets Wednesday to reach the US Open semi-finals.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/alexander-zverev-beats-borna-coric-to-reach-us-open-semi-finals-326180" hreflang="en">Alexander Zverev beats Borna Coric to reach US Open semi-finals</a>

The Austrian ace beat Minaur 6-1, 6-2, 6-4 in just 2hr 4min inside Arthur Ashe Stadium.

"I had a great feeling from the first moment on," said Thiem, gunning for his first Grand Slam title at Flushing Meadows.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-battles-into-us-open-quarters-as-thiem-medvedev-march-on-325915" hreflang="en">Serena battles into US Open quarters as Thiem, Medvedev march on</a>

"My feeling was that first set, especially until I broke him for the second time, was really intense, very long rallies.

"The first and second set second I guess it looks way easier on the scoresheet than it was actually," he added.

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/rollercoaster-2020-for-djokovic-serbians-controversies-that-stopped-him-from-becoming-peoples-champion-325688" hreflang="en">Rollercoaster 2020 for Djokovic: Serbian's controversies that stopped him from becoming 'People's Champion'</a>

27-year-old Thiem smashed 11 aces, whereas, the Aussie managed just one.&nbsp;

The Austrian won 83 per cent of first-serve points, while de Minaur, playing in his first Grand Slam quarter-final, could only manage 49 per cent.

Thiem had 81 per cent of returns in.&nbsp;

The powerful Austrian also smashed 44 winners while De Minaur mustered only 17.&nbsp;

Dominic Thiem will now face Russia's Daniil Medvedev in the semifinals for a place in the finals that is scheduled to be held on Sunday.&nbsp;

The men's semi-finals will take place on Friday.

The disqualification of Novak Djokovic for accidentally hitting a line official with a ball during the last 16 means the US Open will crown a first-time Grand Slam winner this year.&nbsp;

(Inputs from AFP)

Second-seeded Dominic Thiem thrashed Australia's Alex de Minaur in straight sets Wednesday to reach the US Open semi-finals. Also read: Alexander Zverev beats Borna Coric to reach US Open semi-finals The Austrian ace beat Minaur 6-1, 6-2, 6-4 in just 2hr 4min inside Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Second-seeded Dominic Thiem thrashed Australia's Alex de Minaur in straight sets Wednesday to reach the US Open semi-finals. Also read: Alexander Zverev beats Borna Coric to reach US Open semi-finals The Austrian ace beat Minaur 6-1, 6-2, 6-4 in just 2hr 4min inside Arthur Ashe Stadium. "I had a great feeling from the first moment on," said Thiem, gunning for his first Grand Slam title at Flushing Meadows. Also read: Serena battles into US Open quarters as Thiem, Medvedev march on "My feeling was that first set, especially until I broke him for the second time, was really intense, very long rallies. "The first and second set second I guess it looks way easier on the scoresheet than it was actually," he added. In pics: Rollercoaster 2020 for Djokovic: Serbian's controversies that stopped him from becoming 'People's Champion' 27-year-old Thiem smashed 11 aces, whereas, the Aussie managed just one. The Austrian won 83 per cent of first-serve points, while de Minaur, playing in his first Grand Slam quarter-final, could only manage 49 per cent. Thiem had 81 per cent of returns in. The powerful Austrian also smashed 44 winners while De Minaur mustered only 17. Dominic Thiem will now face Russia's Daniil Medvedev in the semifinals for a place in the finals that is scheduled to be held on Sunday. The men's semi-finals will take place on Friday. The disqualification of Novak Djokovic for accidentally hitting a line official with a ball during the last 16 means the US Open will crown a first-time Grand Slam winner this year. (Inputs from AFP)

US Open: Austrian ace Dominic Thiem cruises into semifinals after beating de Minaur

Second seed Dominic Thiem celebrated his 27th birthday with a commanding 6-3 6-3 6-2 victory over India’s Sumit Nagal on Thursday to move into the third round of the U.S. Open.

Austrian Thiem, seeking his maiden Grand Slam title, won an overwhelming 74% of his first serve points and fired seven aces past the inexperienced Nagal, breaking him seven times in the two-hour contest.

Nagal became on Tuesday the first Indian in seven years to win a singles match at Flushing Meadows but the 23-year-old showed only flashes of brilliance in a one-sided clash at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Up next for Thiem, who was runner-up at the Australian Open this year, is 2014 champion Marin Cilic of Croatia who beat Slovakia’s Norbert Gombos 6-3 1-6 7-6(2) 7-5.

Second seed Dominic Thiem celebrated his 27th birthday with a commanding 6-3 6-3 6-2 victory over India’s Sumit Nagal on Thursday to move into the third round of the U.

Second seed Dominic Thiem celebrated his 27th birthday with a commanding 6-3 6-3 6-2 victory over India’s Sumit Nagal on Thursday to move into the third round of the U.S. Open. Austrian Thiem, seeking his maiden Grand Slam title, won an overwhelming 74% of his first serve points and fired seven aces past the inexperienced Nagal, breaking him seven times in the two-hour contest. Nagal became on Tuesday the first Indian in seven years to win a singles match at Flushing Meadows but the 23-year-old showed only flashes of brilliance in a one-sided clash at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Up next for Thiem, who was runner-up at the Australian Open this year, is 2014 champion Marin Cilic of Croatia who beat Slovakia’s Norbert Gombos 6-3 1-6 7-6(2) 7-5.

Birthday boy Thiem dominates Nagal to breeze into U.S. Open third round

Novak Djokovic on Sunday clinched the Australian Open men's title beating Austrian Dominic Thiem. This is Djokovic's 17th Grand Slam title win, moving him within two of Rafael Nadal and three of Roger Federer on the all-time list.

Djokovic beat Thiem 6-4, 4-6, 2-6, 6-3, 6-4 in a near four-hour ordeal.

Also &nbsp;read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-sports-news-sofia-kenin-makes-fierce-comeback-to-beat-garbine-muguruza-to-win-her-first-grand-slam-at-australian-open-278021">Sofia Kenin fights back to beat Garbine Muguruza in Australian Open final</a>

Novak Djokovic battled through intense pressure from Dominic Thiem to reassert his dominance at the Australian Open Sunday, claiming a record eighth title and in doing so retaking the world number one ranking.

The indomitable Serb stretched his unbeaten streak this season to 13 by rallying from two sets to one down and beating the courageous fifth-seeded Austrian 6-4, 4-6, 2-6, 6-3, 6-4 in a near four-hour ordeal.

(With inputs from AFP)

Novak Djokovic on Sunday clinched the Australian Open men's title beating Austrian Dominic Thiem. This is Djokovic's 17th Grand Slam title win, moving him within two of Rafael Nadal and three of Roger Federer on the all-time list.

Novak Djokovic on Sunday clinched the Australian Open men's title beating Austrian Dominic Thiem. This is Djokovic's 17th Grand Slam title win, moving him within two of Rafael Nadal and three of Roger Federer on the all-time list. Djokovic beat Thiem 6-4, 4-6, 2-6, 6-3, 6-4 in a near four-hour ordeal. Also read: Sofia Kenin fights back to beat Garbine Muguruza in Australian Open final Novak Djokovic battled through intense pressure from Dominic Thiem to reassert his dominance at the Australian Open Sunday, claiming a record eighth title and in doing so retaking the world number one ranking. The indomitable Serb stretched his unbeaten streak this season to 13 by rallying from two sets to one down and beating the courageous fifth-seeded Austrian 6-4, 4-6, 2-6, 6-3, 6-4 in a near four-hour ordeal. (With inputs from AFP)

Australian Open 2020: Djokovic beats Thiem to clinch 8th men's title 

In an electrifying quarter-final match of the Australian Open on Wednesday, Austrian&nbsp;tennis star Dominic Thiem knocked out world number 1 Rafael Nadal 7-6(3) 7-6(4) 4-6 7-6(6).&nbsp;

Thiem booked a spot in the semi-finals as former champion Nadal crashed out.&nbsp;

The 26-year-old will face Alex Zverev for a place in the final, a match-up scarcely imaginable at the start of the tournament.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/halep-destroys-kontaveit-to-reach-australian-open-semi-final-277182">Halep destroys Kontaveit to reach Australian Open semi final</a>

Thiem became only the second Austrian to reach the last four at Melbourne Park, following Thomas Muster's runs in 1989 and 1997.

(With inputs from Reuters)

In an electrifying quarter-final match of the Australian Open on Wednesday, Austrian tennis star Dominic Thiem knocked out world number 1 Rafael Nadal 7-6(3) 7-6(4) 4-6 7-6(6).

In an electrifying quarter-final match of the Australian Open on Wednesday, Austrian tennis star Dominic Thiem knocked out world number 1 Rafael Nadal 7-6(3) 7-6(4) 4-6 7-6(6). Thiem booked a spot in the semi-finals as former champion Nadal crashed out. The 26-year-old will face Alex Zverev for a place in the final, a match-up scarcely imaginable at the start of the tournament. Also read: Halep destroys Kontaveit to reach Australian Open semi final Thiem became only the second Austrian to reach the last four at Melbourne Park, following Thomas Muster's runs in 1989 and 1997. (With inputs from Reuters)

Australian Open 2020: Dominic Thiem beats Rafael Nadal to enter semi-finals

World number five Dominic Thiem admitted he was "freaking out" after dropping two sets before regaining composure to beat gutsy home hope Alex Bolt at the Australian Open Thursday.

The Austrian, targeting a maiden Grand Slam crown, looked fragile as the crowd got behind the wildcard but ultimately prevailed 6-2, 5-7, 6-7 (5/7), 6-1, 6-2 in 3hrs 22mins.

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Thiem is among a clutch of players tipped to win a Major after reaching the last two Roland Garros finals, but he was exposed at times by a player ranked 140 who controlled much of the second and third sets.

"I got crazy today in the third set. I think body language was not the best because it was, of course, in my head that I should be 2-0 up, 6-2, 6-4, I should be up. I messed it up," he said.

"Instead of that, he raised really his level. The crowd got it going.&nbsp;

"It was all of a sudden a really tight third set that shouldn't happen. That's why I was freaking out inside and also outside today."

Thiem, who has never gone past the fourth round in six previous attempts, ultimately came through to set up another tricky clash in the third round, against either American 29th seed Taylor Fritz or big-serving South African Kevin Anderson.

He looked comfortable after racing through the opening set and was serving at 5-4 to go two sets in front. But the crowd was roaring for Bolt and he remarkably broke, with the tide turning as he rallied to clinch the set 7-5.

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The third set was a tight affair with neither player giving an inch. Thiem had an opportunity at 4-4 with two break points but he failed to convert.

The Austrian's best efforts were being met with resistance, with Bolt saving another three break points on his next service game, leaving Thiem frustrated at his missed opportunities.

It went to a tiebreaker and Bolt raced into a 6-2 lead but wobbled as Thiem won three points in a row before the Australian sent down a booming ace to got two sets to one in front.

However, Thiem recovered his composure and after a series of long-baseline, rallies broke twice to take the match into a deciding set.

The Austrian's focus and fitness proved decisive in the fifth, with a Bolt forehand into the net giving him a break and he raced to victory as his opponent flagged.

Thiem insisted that playing five sets in the second round would not hurt his chances in Melbourne.

"It was nice conditions, was not hot," he said. "There's a big difference if you play three hours 20 (minutes) in these conditions or if you play four-and-a-half when it's 40 degrees outside."

World number five Dominic Thiem admitted he was "freaking out" after dropping two sets before regaining composure to beat gutsy home hope Alex Bolt at the Australian Open Thursday.

World number five Dominic Thiem admitted he was "freaking out" after dropping two sets before regaining composure to beat gutsy home hope Alex Bolt at the Australian Open Thursday. The Austrian, targeting a maiden Grand Slam crown, looked fragile as the crowd got behind the wildcard but ultimately prevailed 6-2, 5-7, 6-7 (5/7), 6-1, 6-2 in 3hrs 22mins. Melbourne Arena is getting a show!#AO2020 | #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/lrOWgZORSC — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 23, 2020 × Thiem is among a clutch of players tipped to win a Major after reaching the last two Roland Garros finals, but he was exposed at times by a player ranked 140 who controlled much of the second and third sets. "I got crazy today in the third set. I think body language was not the best because it was, of course, in my head that I should be 2-0 up, 6-2, 6-4, I should be up. I messed it up," he said. "Instead of that, he raised really his level. The crowd got it going. "It was all of a sudden a really tight third set that shouldn't happen. That's why I was freaking out inside and also outside today." Thiem, who has never gone past the fourth round in six previous attempts, ultimately came through to set up another tricky clash in the third round, against either American 29th seed Taylor Fritz or big-serving South African Kevin Anderson. He looked comfortable after racing through the opening set and was serving at 5-4 to go two sets in front. But the crowd was roaring for Bolt and he remarkably broke, with the tide turning as he rallied to clinch the set 7-5. Down Under Underdog 🐶@abolt15 has Melbourne Arena rocking as he keeps the set even at 4-4.#AusOpen | #AO2020 pic.twitter.com/P0f1IV5pXK — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 23, 2020 × The third set was a tight affair with neither player giving an inch. Thiem had an opportunity at 4-4 with two break points but he failed to convert. The Austrian's best efforts were being met with resistance, with Bolt saving another three break points on his next service game, leaving Thiem frustrated at his missed opportunities. It went to a tiebreaker and Bolt raced into a 6-2 lead but wobbled as Thiem won three points in a row before the Australian sent down a booming ace to got two sets to one in front. However, Thiem recovered his composure and after a series of long-baseline, rallies broke twice to take the match into a deciding set. The Austrian's focus and fitness proved decisive in the fifth, with a Bolt forehand into the net giving him a break and he raced to victory as his opponent flagged. Thiem insisted that playing five sets in the second round would not hurt his chances in Melbourne. "It was nice conditions, was not hot," he said. "There's a big difference if you play three hours 20 (minutes) in these conditions or if you play four-and-a-half when it's 40 degrees outside."

Thiem 'freaking out' in five-set Australian Open scare

Greek tennis star Stefanos Tsitsipas beat <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-finals-dominic-thiem-into-finals-with-win-over-zverev-262686">Austrian Dominic Thiem </a>6-7(6) 6-2 7-6(4) to clinch the &nbsp;ATP Finals on Sunday.

Tsitsipas, 21, became the youngest champion of the tournament since &nbsp;Lleyton Hewitt in 2001. He also became the youngest player to reach the final on debut since American Jim Courier in 1991.

"I can't sum up my emotions right now," Tsitsipas said after beating Thiem.

"It's amazing to be remembered as the 2019 champion. It is a dream come true and the best way to end this match," the new champion said.

In a keenly contested final, Tsitsipas showed exemplary serve and volley skills to go past Thiem pocketing $2.6 million winner's cheque.

"I did get nervous at some points in the match but I managed to forget about how I felt and I had momentum in the tie-break which was really tight," he added.

"My fighting spirit and me constantly trying to push myself to do better got me there in the end," an elated Tsitsipas said.

Tsitsipas who had said he would like an army of fans like Federer after beating the Swiss great was greeted by "Tsitsipas...Tsitsipas" chants as he took control of the match.

In the deciding set tie-break Tsitsipas took a 4-2 lead but Thiem came back to make it 4/4, however, the Greek superstar won the next three points to seal his third title of the year.&nbsp;

The ATP tournament was Tsitsipas' third title of the season. Thiem who lost the hard-fought battle has won five titles this year, including the Indian Wells Masters, and reached a second successive French Open final.

Greek tennis star Stefanos Tsitsipas beat Austrian Dominic Thiem 6-7(6) 6-2 7-6(4) to clinch the ATP Finals on Sunday. Tsitsipas, 21, became the youngest champion of the tournament since Lleyton Hewitt in 2001.

Greek tennis star Stefanos Tsitsipas beat Austrian Dominic Thiem 6-7(6) 6-2 7-6(4) to clinch the ATP Finals on Sunday. Tsitsipas, 21, became the youngest champion of the tournament since Lleyton Hewitt in 2001. He also became the youngest player to reach the final on debut since American Jim Courier in 1991. "I can't sum up my emotions right now," Tsitsipas said after beating Thiem. "It's amazing to be remembered as the 2019 champion. It is a dream come true and the best way to end this match," the new champion said. In a keenly contested final, Tsitsipas showed exemplary serve and volley skills to go past Thiem pocketing $2.6 million winner's cheque. "I did get nervous at some points in the match but I managed to forget about how I felt and I had momentum in the tie-break which was really tight," he added. "My fighting spirit and me constantly trying to push myself to do better got me there in the end," an elated Tsitsipas said. Tsitsipas who had said he would like an army of fans like Federer after beating the Swiss great was greeted by "Tsitsipas...Tsitsipas" chants as he took control of the match. In the deciding set tie-break Tsitsipas took a 4-2 lead but Thiem came back to make it 4/4, however, the Greek superstar won the next three points to seal his third title of the year. The ATP tournament was Tsitsipas' third title of the season. Thiem who lost the hard-fought battle has won five titles this year, including the Indian Wells Masters, and reached a second successive French Open final.

Tsitsipas clinches maiden ATP Finals after beating Thiem

Dominic Thiem was at his dominant best as he dismantled defending champion Alexander Zverev 7-5 6-3 on Saturday to storm into the final of the season-ending <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-knocked-out-from-atp-finals-despite-win-over-stefanos-tsitsipas-zverev-through-to-semis-262521">ATP finals</a>.

Austrian Thiem, 26, will face Greek youngster Stefanos Tsitsipas on Sunday for the top prize at London's O2 Arena after he dispatched six-times champion Roger Federer.

There was little to separate the players until the 12th game when a tense Zverev suddenly tightened up and double-faulted on set point to hand his rival the set.

Zverev, who began this year's tournament in superb fashion by beating Rafael Nadal in a group clash, flung his racket across the court in frustration.

Thiem, who has played glorious tennis this week despite suffering with a cold, looked the more solid player and broke the big-serving Zverev to take a 4-2 lead in the second set.

Zverev had a chance to break back but world number five Thiem held firm to consolidate.

Serving for the match, Thiem closed out victory on his first match point with a forehand passing shot down the line.

Thiem is the first Austrian to reach the final of the ATP's exclusive year-ender in its 50-year history and it will be a fitting end to a superb season which caught fire after hiring former Olympic champion Nicolas Massu as coach.

He has won five titles including his first Masters 1000 crown at Indian Wells. He also reached his second successive French Open final, losing to Nadal.

Looking ahead to the clash with 21-year-old debutant Tsitsipas, Thiem said: "One handed back-handed finals, I guess! We are both offensive players, he is very attractive to watch, I love to watch him and I am looking forward to playing him again.

"And I'm happy to be playing again here tomorrow in front of this amazing atmosphere." 
&nbsp;

Dominic Thiem was at his dominant best as he dismantled defending champion Alexander Zverev 7-5 6-3 on Saturday to storm into the final of the season-ending ATP finals.

Dominic Thiem was at his dominant best as he dismantled defending champion Alexander Zverev 7-5 6-3 on Saturday to storm into the final of the season-ending ATP finals. Austrian Thiem, 26, will face Greek youngster Stefanos Tsitsipas on Sunday for the top prize at London's O2 Arena after he dispatched six-times champion Roger Federer. There was little to separate the players until the 12th game when a tense Zverev suddenly tightened up and double-faulted on set point to hand his rival the set. Zverev, who began this year's tournament in superb fashion by beating Rafael Nadal in a group clash, flung his racket across the court in frustration. Thiem, who has played glorious tennis this week despite suffering with a cold, looked the more solid player and broke the big-serving Zverev to take a 4-2 lead in the second set. Zverev had a chance to break back but world number five Thiem held firm to consolidate. Serving for the match, Thiem closed out victory on his first match point with a forehand passing shot down the line. Thiem is the first Austrian to reach the final of the ATP's exclusive year-ender in its 50-year history and it will be a fitting end to a superb season which caught fire after hiring former Olympic champion Nicolas Massu as coach. He has won five titles including his first Masters 1000 crown at Indian Wells. He also reached his second successive French Open final, losing to Nadal. Looking ahead to the clash with 21-year-old debutant Tsitsipas, Thiem said: "One handed back-handed finals, I guess! We are both offensive players, he is very attractive to watch, I love to watch him and I am looking forward to playing him again. "And I'm happy to be playing again here tomorrow in front of this amazing atmosphere."

ATP Finals: Dominic Thiem into finals with win over Zverev

Matteo Berrettini became the first Italian to win a match in ATP Finals history as he signed off with a 7-6 (3) 6-3 defeat of off-colour <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-finals-federer-up-against-it-after-thiem-defeat-261316">Dominic Thiem</a> at the O2 Arena on Thursday.

The afternoon tussle was a little flat as Thiem had already <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-finals-probably-my-best-ever-says-thiem-after-djokovic-win-261758">sealed a place in the semi-finals</a> after group wins against Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic, while Berrettini could not progress.

But the powerful 23-year-old Berrettini, making his debut at the tournament, produced some eye-catching tennis to make sure he heads home with a morale-boosting win.

The 200 ranking points and $215,000 for the group stage win capped a stunning year for Berrettini who was outside the top 50 in January but will end the season ranked eighth.

The only other Italians to qualify for the elite season-ender were Corrado Barazzutti in 1978 and Adriano Panatta in 1975 and neither managed to win a match.

Berrettini served for the first set at 5-4 after breaking the Thiem serve to love in the previous game, but a netted volley handed back the break.

The Italian dominated the tiebreak and grew in confidence in the second set as Thiem, suffering with a cold, failed to repeat the dazzling form he displayed when beating Djokovic in a three-set thriller on Tuesday.

A running backhand pass gave him a break for 4-2 in the second set and he closed out the win in dominant fashion.

Despite losing on Thursday, Thiem has won the group and will be joined in the semi-finals by either Djokovic or Federer who clash for the 49th time in an evening blockbuster.

Matteo Berrettini became the first Italian to win a match in ATP Finals history as he signed off with a 7-6 (3) 6-3 defeat of off-colour Dominic Thiem at the O2 Arena on Thursday.

Matteo Berrettini became the first Italian to win a match in ATP Finals history as he signed off with a 7-6 (3) 6-3 defeat of off-colour Dominic Thiem at the O2 Arena on Thursday. The afternoon tussle was a little flat as Thiem had already sealed a place in the semi-finals after group wins against Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic, while Berrettini could not progress. But the powerful 23-year-old Berrettini, making his debut at the tournament, produced some eye-catching tennis to make sure he heads home with a morale-boosting win. The 200 ranking points and $215,000 for the group stage win capped a stunning year for Berrettini who was outside the top 50 in January but will end the season ranked eighth. The only other Italians to qualify for the elite season-ender were Corrado Barazzutti in 1978 and Adriano Panatta in 1975 and neither managed to win a match. Berrettini served for the first set at 5-4 after breaking the Thiem serve to love in the previous game, but a netted volley handed back the break. The Italian dominated the tiebreak and grew in confidence in the second set as Thiem, suffering with a cold, failed to repeat the dazzling form he displayed when beating Djokovic in a three-set thriller on Tuesday. A running backhand pass gave him a break for 4-2 in the second set and he closed out the win in dominant fashion. Despite losing on Thursday, Thiem has won the group and will be joined in the semi-finals by either Djokovic or Federer who clash for the 49th time in an evening blockbuster.

ATP Finals: Berrettini signs off with victory over Thiem

Austria's Dominic Thiem described his stunning victory over Novak Djokovic at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-finals-djokovic-thrashes-berrettini-thiem-stuns-federer-261312">ATP&nbsp;Finals</a>&nbsp;on Tuesday as probably the best match he has ever played.

The 26-year-old world number five blazed 50 winners, many of them jaw-dropping backhands, to beat the five-time champion 6-7(5) 6-3 7-6(5) in front of a spellbound O2 arena crowd.

He battled back from 4-1 down in the final set tiebreak to claim a fourth win in five against the 16-time Grand Slam champion and has already booked his semi-final spot.

"Probably the best match I ever played," he said. "It was a real classic and epic match which will happen from time to time at these big tournaments.

"It had everything that a match like this needs. He was up; I was up. He was playing amazing points; I was playing amazing points. It's only about luck, and it was a little bit more on my side today in the third-set tiebreak."

Djokovic played his full part in an exhilarating contest but could not quite match Thiem's firepower.

Thiem also made 44 unforced errors but it would be churlish to criticise that tally when he was playing such risky tennis.

Having never got past the group stage in three previous appearances at the tournament, he has now beaten <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-finals-federer-up-against-it-after-thiem-defeat-261316">Roger Federer</a> and Novak Djokovic back-to-back to book his place in the semi-finals&nbsp;and appears to be the man in form.

"I knew that I had to play like this to beat him. Against everybody who qualified for this tournament here, there is a special effort necessary to win," said the 26-year-old.

"I did it against Roger, and I did it also today. Probably Novak is the best player in the world right now, so I had to do something outstanding, something unusual, and that's what I did.

"I mean, I was hitting really, really hard."

Djokovic, who faces a decisive clash with Federer on Thursday with the loser guaranteed an early exit, was generous in his praise of Thiem.

"I know that he can play in a high level, but tonight was just phenomenal," he said. "He just played very courageous tennis and (was) just smacking the ball. He went for broke."

Austria's Dominic Thiem described his stunning victory over Novak Djokovic at the ATP Finals on Tuesday as probably the best match he has ever played. The 26-year-old world number five blazed 50 winners, many of them jaw-dropping backhands, to beat the five-time champion 6-7(5) 6-3 7-6(5) in front of a spellbound O2 arena crowd.

Austria's Dominic Thiem described his stunning victory over Novak Djokovic at the ATP Finals on Tuesday as probably the best match he has ever played. The 26-year-old world number five blazed 50 winners, many of them jaw-dropping backhands, to beat the five-time champion 6-7(5) 6-3 7-6(5) in front of a spellbound O2 arena crowd. He battled back from 4-1 down in the final set tiebreak to claim a fourth win in five against the 16-time Grand Slam champion and has already booked his semi-final spot. "Probably the best match I ever played," he said. "It was a real classic and epic match which will happen from time to time at these big tournaments. "It had everything that a match like this needs. He was up; I was up. He was playing amazing points; I was playing amazing points. It's only about luck, and it was a little bit more on my side today in the third-set tiebreak." Djokovic played his full part in an exhilarating contest but could not quite match Thiem's firepower. Thiem also made 44 unforced errors but it would be churlish to criticise that tally when he was playing such risky tennis. Having never got past the group stage in three previous appearances at the tournament, he has now beaten Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic back-to-back to book his place in the semi-finals and appears to be the man in form. "I knew that I had to play like this to beat him. Against everybody who qualified for this tournament here, there is a special effort necessary to win," said the 26-year-old. "I did it against Roger, and I did it also today. Probably Novak is the best player in the world right now, so I had to do something outstanding, something unusual, and that's what I did. "I mean, I was hitting really, really hard." Djokovic, who faces a decisive clash with Federer on Thursday with the loser guaranteed an early exit, was generous in his praise of Thiem. "I know that he can play in a high level, but tonight was just phenomenal," he said. "He just played very courageous tennis and (was) just smacking the ball. He went for broke."

ATP Finals: Probably my best ever, says Thiem after defeating Novak Djokovic

Novak Djokovic suffered defeat in a thriller against an inspired Dominic Thiem at the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-finals-federer-up-against-it-after-thiem-defeat-261316"> ATP Finals </a>on Tuesday and now faces a showdown with great rival Roger Federer to decide who will reach the last four at the season-ender.

Swiss Federer shrugged of defeat by Austria's Thiem in his opening group match to comfortably beat Italian Matteo Berrettini 7-6(2) 6-3 in the day's opening singles.

But the real drama at The O2 arena came later when Thiem beat Djokovic 6-7(5) 6-3 7-6(5) in the standout match of the tournament so far.

World number five Thiem blazed 50 winners in a sensational display of aggressive hitting to claim his second group win and seal his first semi-final in his fourth appearance.

Whatever his result against the already-eliminated Berrettini the Austrian will progress, but the only victory will do for Djokovic and Federer as they clash for the 49th time and first since Djokovic won an epic Wimbledon final in July.

While Federer is trying to avoid only his second group stage exit in 17 appearances at the year-ending showpiece, the stakes will be even higher for Djokovic.

Defeat would not only halt his bid to equal Federer's six titles but would also mean he cannot end the year ranked number one. Djokovic must reach at least the final to overhaul Rafael Nadal and equal Pete Sampras's feat of finishing a year ranked number one on six occasions.

He will have to recover quickly after being stretched to breaking point by Thiem in a match lasting nearly three hours.

"We go head to head with Roger. The winner goes to semis. Loser doesn't qualify. As simple as that," Djokovic, who led 4-1 in the final-set tiebreaker against Thiem, told reporters.

Thiem responded to losing a high-quality opening set in stunning fashion, ripping winners all over the blue court to take the second set and move a break ahead in the decider.

Few players know how to weather a storm quite like Djokovic though and when he broke back and had Thiem serving at 4-5, 30-30 it seemed he was closing in on victory.

He thought he had reached match point when Thiem's rasping forehand winner was called out but the Austrian challenged and Hawkeye ruled the ball had shaved the line.

Thiem broke in the next game but again Djokovic hit back to drag the match into a tiebreak.

Djokovic led 4-1 but Thiem would not be denied and reeled off five points in a row to give himself two match points.

Thiem thought he had served an ace at 6-4 but it was called out and this time his Hawkeye challenge was unsuccessful.

However, the Austrian made sure at the second time of asking as a weary Djokovic netted.

Generous in defeat, Djokovic said: "I thought he deserved to win. He just played very courageous tennis and was just smacking the ball. He went for broke.

"It was amazing. I have played him before. I know his game. But what he did tonight was just out of ordinary."

The 26-year-old Thiem is the first Austrian to reach the semi-finals of the tournament.

Federer was pushed hard by Berrettini in the first set as the Italian powerhouse showed the kind of form that has propelled him into the world's top 10.

But once Federer changed gear to claim 10 of 11 points to breeze through the first set tiebreak and break to love at the start of the second his 58th victory at the tournament was never in doubt. The 38-year-old's thoughts then turned to Djokovic.

"We'll find out, but I think it's all flushed away from my side," the 20-time Grand Slam winner said when asked if the memory of his Wimbledon loss to Djokovic was still bitter.

"I think we both can take away some confidence from the match. Him obviously a lot. Me maybe a tad bit less.

"But at the end of the day, I didn't hope I was never going to play him again. Actually, it's good for me to play him again, and maybe that all helps to get a chance to get him back or whatever it is. Personally, excited to play Novak on Thursday."

Novak Djokovic suffered defeat in a thriller against an inspired Dominic Thiem at the ATP Finals on Tuesday and now faces a showdown with great rival Roger Federer to decide who will reach the last four at the season-ender.

Novak Djokovic suffered defeat in a thriller against an inspired Dominic Thiem at the ATP Finals on Tuesday and now faces a showdown with great rival Roger Federer to decide who will reach the last four at the season-ender. Swiss Federer shrugged of defeat by Austria's Thiem in his opening group match to comfortably beat Italian Matteo Berrettini 7-6(2) 6-3 in the day's opening singles. But the real drama at The O2 arena came later when Thiem beat Djokovic 6-7(5) 6-3 7-6(5) in the standout match of the tournament so far. World number five Thiem blazed 50 winners in a sensational display of aggressive hitting to claim his second group win and seal his first semi-final in his fourth appearance. Whatever his result against the already-eliminated Berrettini the Austrian will progress, but the only victory will do for Djokovic and Federer as they clash for the 49th time and first since Djokovic won an epic Wimbledon final in July. While Federer is trying to avoid only his second group stage exit in 17 appearances at the year-ending showpiece, the stakes will be even higher for Djokovic. Defeat would not only halt his bid to equal Federer's six titles but would also mean he cannot end the year ranked number one. Djokovic must reach at least the final to overhaul Rafael Nadal and equal Pete Sampras's feat of finishing a year ranked number one on six occasions. He will have to recover quickly after being stretched to breaking point by Thiem in a match lasting nearly three hours. "We go head to head with Roger. The winner goes to semis. Loser doesn't qualify. As simple as that," Djokovic, who led 4-1 in the final-set tiebreaker against Thiem, told reporters. Thiem responded to losing a high-quality opening set in stunning fashion, ripping winners all over the blue court to take the second set and move a break ahead in the decider. Few players know how to weather a storm quite like Djokovic though and when he broke back and had Thiem serving at 4-5, 30-30 it seemed he was closing in on victory. He thought he had reached match point when Thiem's rasping forehand winner was called out but the Austrian challenged and Hawkeye ruled the ball had shaved the line. Thiem broke in the next game but again Djokovic hit back to drag the match into a tiebreak. Djokovic led 4-1 but Thiem would not be denied and reeled off five points in a row to give himself two match points. Thiem thought he had served an ace at 6-4 but it was called out and this time his Hawkeye challenge was unsuccessful. However, the Austrian made sure at the second time of asking as a weary Djokovic netted. Generous in defeat, Djokovic said: "I thought he deserved to win. He just played very courageous tennis and was just smacking the ball. He went for broke. "It was amazing. I have played him before. I know his game. But what he did tonight was just out of ordinary." The 26-year-old Thiem is the first Austrian to reach the semi-finals of the tournament. Federer was pushed hard by Berrettini in the first set as the Italian powerhouse showed the kind of form that has propelled him into the world's top 10. But once Federer changed gear to claim 10 of 11 points to breeze through the first set tiebreak and break to love at the start of the second his 58th victory at the tournament was never in doubt. The 38-year-old's thoughts then turned to Djokovic. "We'll find out, but I think it's all flushed away from my side," the 20-time Grand Slam winner said when asked if the memory of his Wimbledon loss to Djokovic was still bitter. "I think we both can take away some confidence from the match. Him obviously a lot. Me maybe a tad bit less. "But at the end of the day, I didn't hope I was never going to play him again. Actually, it's good for me to play him again, and maybe that all helps to get a chance to get him back or whatever it is. Personally, excited to play Novak on Thursday."

ATP Finals: Federer eyes Djokovic after rebounding against Berrettini

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-brushes-de-minaur-aside-to-claim-record-10th-basel-title-258408">Roger Federer</a> said he had no more margin for error if he wanted to avoid an early exit at the ATP Finals after losing his opening group match to Dominic Thiem on Sunday.

The 38-year-old Swiss, bidding for his seventh title at the event but his first since 2011, struggled to handle Thiem's aggressive game as he went down 7-5 7-5.

Only once in 16 previous appearances has Federer failed to survive the group phase, in 2008, and to avoid a repeat he will have to beat Italian Matteo Berrettini on Tuesday and most probably <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-djokovic-has-world-number-one-nadal-in-his-sights-at-london-finale-260669">Novak Djokovic </a>on Thursday.

Djokovic, aiming to claw back the year-end number one ranking from Rafael Nadal, destroyed debutant Berrettini 6-2 6-1 in the day's opening singles match at the O2 Arena.

Thiem put constant pressure on Federer and broke at 5-5 in each set to claim his third win over the Swiss this year.

"My forecast, it's a normal tournament from here on forward," 20-time Grand Slam champion Federer, beaten by Djokovic in an epic Wimbledon final in July, said.

"Not allowed to lose anymore for me. That's how it is every week of the year for the last 20 years, so from that standpoint there is nothing new there.

"I've got to recover, I've got make sure I play better than today, and hopefully I can win that match (against Berrettini)."

The warning signs were there in Federer's opening service game which he dropped and although he hit back impressively he faltered at 5-5 when Thiem hurried him into errors.

Federer had the majority of support in the packed arena but, try as he might, he could not find his A game in the second set as Thiem again dominated the baseline rallies.

Thiem, who has flourished this year since hiring coach Nicolas Massu after a slow start to the season, broke again at 5-5 and although Federer fought hard and had a point to take the set into a tiebreak he was unable to turn things around.

"I thought he played a tough first-round performance today, and my game was probably just not good enough, and the start didn't help," Federer said.

Thiem will face Djokovic on Tuesday.

Roger Federer said he had no more margin for error if he wanted to avoid an early exit at the ATP Finals after losing his opening group match to Dominic Thiem on Sunday.

Roger Federer said he had no more margin for error if he wanted to avoid an early exit at the ATP Finals after losing his opening group match to Dominic Thiem on Sunday. The 38-year-old Swiss, bidding for his seventh title at the event but his first since 2011, struggled to handle Thiem's aggressive game as he went down 7-5 7-5. Only once in 16 previous appearances has Federer failed to survive the group phase, in 2008, and to avoid a repeat he will have to beat Italian Matteo Berrettini on Tuesday and most probably Novak Djokovic on Thursday. Djokovic, aiming to claw back the year-end number one ranking from Rafael Nadal, destroyed debutant Berrettini 6-2 6-1 in the day's opening singles match at the O2 Arena. Thiem put constant pressure on Federer and broke at 5-5 in each set to claim his third win over the Swiss this year. "My forecast, it's a normal tournament from here on forward," 20-time Grand Slam champion Federer, beaten by Djokovic in an epic Wimbledon final in July, said. "Not allowed to lose anymore for me. That's how it is every week of the year for the last 20 years, so from that standpoint there is nothing new there. "I've got to recover, I've got make sure I play better than today, and hopefully I can win that match (against Berrettini)." The warning signs were there in Federer's opening service game which he dropped and although he hit back impressively he faltered at 5-5 when Thiem hurried him into errors. Federer had the majority of support in the packed arena but, try as he might, he could not find his A game in the second set as Thiem again dominated the baseline rallies. Thiem, who has flourished this year since hiring coach Nicolas Massu after a slow start to the season, broke again at 5-5 and although Federer fought hard and had a point to take the set into a tiebreak he was unable to turn things around. "I thought he played a tough first-round performance today, and my game was probably just not good enough, and the start didn't help," Federer said. Thiem will face Djokovic on Tuesday.

ATP Finals: Federer up against it after Thiem defeat

Novak Djokovic ruthlessly took Matteo Berrettini apart at the ATP Finals on Sunday as he began his quest to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-djokovic-has-world-number-one-nadal-in-his-sights-at-london-finale-260669">reclaim the number one</a> ranking by winning his opening group match 6-2 6-1.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-brushes-de-minaur-aside-to-claim-record-10th-basel-title-258408">Roger Federer</a> already faces an uphill task to win the title for the first time since 2011, however, after being outplayed by inspired Austrian Dominic Thiem, losing 7-5 7-5.

Thiem had never won his opening group match in his three previous appearances but took full advantage of a unusually sluggish Federer to make a flying start.

While six-time champion Federer will fancy his chances of steadying the ship against Berrettini on Tuesday, he will likely need to beat Djokovic on Thursday to reach the semi-finals.

Only once in 16 previous appearances has Federer not survived the group stage, back in 2008.

Berrettini, the first Italian to play in the season-ending showpiece since 1978, was given a harsh lesson by 16-time Grand Slam champion Djokovic at the O2 Arena.

The 32-year-old Djokovic began the match 640 points behind Rafael Nadal in the race to end the year on top of the rankings, but victory chipped that advantage down to 440.

Djokovic must at least win two group matches and reach the final to have any chance of matching Pete Sampras's record of ending six separate years as world number one.

Spaniard Nadal, who has concerns over an abdominal injury sustained at the Paris Masters, plays his first group match on Monday against defending champion Alexander Zverev.

As an opening singles match in a tournament featuring the world's best eight players, it was a disappointing spectacle as the 23-year-old Berrettini succumbed all too easily.

The first four games were shared but once Djokovic got into his metronomic groove he looked untouchable and the errors began to flow off his opponent's racket.

Berrettini snatched at a forehand at 2-3 to gift Djokovic the break and in no time at all he was a set and 4-0 down.

Djokovic had a momentary lapse to drop serve but was in no mood to hang around as he racked up his 36th win at the event.

He did have some sympathy for his opponent though.

"I remember when I played for the first time in the ATP Tour Finals in 2007, I lost all three matches in the group," he said.

"I was tense. It's a lot of pressure mentally, that you have to deliver your best, where for us guys that have been playing on the top level for many years, we have the experience."

The evening match was much more entertaining as Thiem, runner-up at the French Open to Nadal in June for a second successive year, took his career record over Federer to 5-2.

He broke serve in the opening game and although Federer hit back impressively Thiem was the more aggressive player throughout, using his forehand to keep Federer on the back foot.

Federer buckled under pressure at 5-5 in the opener and Thiem confidently held in the next game.

It felt like Federer was just hanging on in the second but he offered up three break points at 5-5 with a volley error.

Serving for the match, Thiem missed one match point and had to save a break point as Federer dug in but he made no mistake at the second time of asking, pummelling away a forehand to seal a third win over Federer this year.

Novak Djokovic ruthlessly took Matteo Berrettini apart at the ATP Finals on Sunday as he began his quest to reclaim the number one ranking by winning his opening group match 6-2 6-1.

Novak Djokovic ruthlessly took Matteo Berrettini apart at the ATP Finals on Sunday as he began his quest to reclaim the number one ranking by winning his opening group match 6-2 6-1. Roger Federer already faces an uphill task to win the title for the first time since 2011, however, after being outplayed by inspired Austrian Dominic Thiem, losing 7-5 7-5. Thiem had never won his opening group match in his three previous appearances but took full advantage of a unusually sluggish Federer to make a flying start. While six-time champion Federer will fancy his chances of steadying the ship against Berrettini on Tuesday, he will likely need to beat Djokovic on Thursday to reach the semi-finals. Only once in 16 previous appearances has Federer not survived the group stage, back in 2008. Berrettini, the first Italian to play in the season-ending showpiece since 1978, was given a harsh lesson by 16-time Grand Slam champion Djokovic at the O2 Arena. The 32-year-old Djokovic began the match 640 points behind Rafael Nadal in the race to end the year on top of the rankings, but victory chipped that advantage down to 440. Djokovic must at least win two group matches and reach the final to have any chance of matching Pete Sampras's record of ending six separate years as world number one. Spaniard Nadal, who has concerns over an abdominal injury sustained at the Paris Masters, plays his first group match on Monday against defending champion Alexander Zverev. As an opening singles match in a tournament featuring the world's best eight players, it was a disappointing spectacle as the 23-year-old Berrettini succumbed all too easily. The first four games were shared but once Djokovic got into his metronomic groove he looked untouchable and the errors began to flow off his opponent's racket. Berrettini snatched at a forehand at 2-3 to gift Djokovic the break and in no time at all he was a set and 4-0 down. Djokovic had a momentary lapse to drop serve but was in no mood to hang around as he racked up his 36th win at the event. He did have some sympathy for his opponent though. "I remember when I played for the first time in the ATP Tour Finals in 2007, I lost all three matches in the group," he said. "I was tense. It's a lot of pressure mentally, that you have to deliver your best, where for us guys that have been playing on the top level for many years, we have the experience." The evening match was much more entertaining as Thiem, runner-up at the French Open to Nadal in June for a second successive year, took his career record over Federer to 5-2. He broke serve in the opening game and although Federer hit back impressively Thiem was the more aggressive player throughout, using his forehand to keep Federer on the back foot. Federer buckled under pressure at 5-5 in the opener and Thiem confidently held in the next game. It felt like Federer was just hanging on in the second but he offered up three break points at 5-5 with a volley error. Serving for the match, Thiem missed one match point and had to save a break point as Federer dug in but he made no mistake at the second time of asking, pummelling away a forehand to seal a third win over Federer this year.

ATP Finals: Djokovic thrashes Berrettini, Thiem stuns Federer

From Novak Djokovic to Rafael Nadal, here are eight men to watch at US Open

It was the "super salty" blockbuster clash tennis fans around the world wanted to see and Nick Kyrgios and Rafael Nadal duly obliged on Tuesday by setting up a second-round showdown at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/andy-murray-serena-williams-form-wimbledon-mixed-doubles-dream-team-232624">Wimbledon</a>.

When last Friday's men's draw set the pair on a collision course, the only fear was that Yuichi Sugita and Jordan Thompson might gatecrash a reunion between the duo who are not exactly considered best buddies on the tour.

As it was, Nadal dispatched the Japanese 6-3, 6-1, 6-3, while Kyrgios, no stranger to hurling chairs across a court when things don't go his way, was almost on his best behaviour as he secured a 7-6(4), 3-6, 7-6(10), 0-6, 6-1 win over his compatriot.

Considering Nadal accused Kyrgios of disrespect after losing to him in Acapulco earlier and the Australian hit back by describing the 18-time Grand Slam champion as being "super salty" in defeat, sparks could fly again when they face off for the seventh time, with their rivalry deadlocked at 3-3.

However, on Tuesday both players refused to get dragged into a war of words.

"Not sure that me and Rafa could go down to the Dog &amp; Fox (pub) and have a beer together... we have mutual respect but that's about it," said Kyrgios, who beat the Spaniard in their only previous meeting at Wimbledon.

"He's one of the greatest tennis players of all time. I go into that match as an unbelievable underdog," said&nbsp;Kyrgios.

As for Nadal, his only words on the subject were: "I'm too old for all that stuff."

That might be the case but Nadal and his long-time 'frenemy' Roger Federer showed that age was no barrier when it came to winning matches.

The Swiss, chasing a record ninth Wimbledon title, was not exactly at his regal best on a day the Duchess of Cambridge had dropped in to cheer him on but that did not stop Federer handing Wimbledon debutant Lloyd Harris a 3-6, 6-1, 6-2, 6-2 defeat.

Maria Sharapova's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-defending-champion-angelique-kerber-outclasses-tricky-compatriot-232606">Wimbledon </a>ended in the first round for the second straight year as the 2004 champion retired with an arm injury while trailing France's Pauline Parmentier 4-6, 7-6(4), 5-0.

Another former champion, Spaniard Garbine Muguruza, was beaten 6-4, 6-4 by Brazilian qualifier Beatriz Haddad Maia.

A day after Stefanos Tsitsipas and Alexander Zverev lost their chance to end the Nadal-Federer-Novak Djokovic stranglehold on men's tennis, Austria's French Open runner-up Dominic Thiem continued the Next-Gen exodus as he was humbled 6-7(4), 7-6(1), 6-3, 6-0 by American Sam Querrey.

It was the "super salty" blockbuster clash tennis fans around the world wanted to see and Nick Kyrgios and Rafael Nadal duly obliged on Tuesday by setting up a second-round showdown at Wimbledon.

It was the "super salty" blockbuster clash tennis fans around the world wanted to see and Nick Kyrgios and Rafael Nadal duly obliged on Tuesday by setting up a second-round showdown at Wimbledon. When last Friday's men's draw set the pair on a collision course, the only fear was that Yuichi Sugita and Jordan Thompson might gatecrash a reunion between the duo who are not exactly considered best buddies on the tour. As it was, Nadal dispatched the Japanese 6-3, 6-1, 6-3, while Kyrgios, no stranger to hurling chairs across a court when things don't go his way, was almost on his best behaviour as he secured a 7-6(4), 3-6, 7-6(10), 0-6, 6-1 win over his compatriot. Considering Nadal accused Kyrgios of disrespect after losing to him in Acapulco earlier and the Australian hit back by describing the 18-time Grand Slam champion as being "super salty" in defeat, sparks could fly again when they face off for the seventh time, with their rivalry deadlocked at 3-3. However, on Tuesday both players refused to get dragged into a war of words. "Not sure that me and Rafa could go down to the Dog & Fox (pub) and have a beer together... we have mutual respect but that's about it," said Kyrgios, who beat the Spaniard in their only previous meeting at Wimbledon. "He's one of the greatest tennis players of all time. I go into that match as an unbelievable underdog," said Kyrgios. As for Nadal, his only words on the subject were: "I'm too old for all that stuff." That might be the case but Nadal and his long-time 'frenemy' Roger Federer showed that age was no barrier when it came to winning matches. The Swiss, chasing a record ninth Wimbledon title, was not exactly at his regal best on a day the Duchess of Cambridge had dropped in to cheer him on but that did not stop Federer handing Wimbledon debutant Lloyd Harris a 3-6, 6-1, 6-2, 6-2 defeat. Maria Sharapova's Wimbledon ended in the first round for the second straight year as the 2004 champion retired with an arm injury while trailing France's Pauline Parmentier 4-6, 7-6(4), 5-0. Another former champion, Spaniard Garbine Muguruza, was beaten 6-4, 6-4 by Brazilian qualifier Beatriz Haddad Maia. A day after Stefanos Tsitsipas and Alexander Zverev lost their chance to end the Nadal-Federer-Novak Djokovic stranglehold on men's tennis, Austria's French Open runner-up Dominic Thiem continued the Next-Gen exodus as he was humbled 6-7(4), 7-6(1), 6-3, 6-0 by American Sam Querrey.

Wimbledon: Nick Kyrgios, Rafael Nadal set to renew 'salty' rivalry

From Naomi Osaka to Maria Sharapova, shocking upsets at Wimbledon'19 round one

Rafael Nadal could face a Wimbledon second-round showdown with controversial Australian Nick Kyrgios after the draw for the men's singles took place on Friday.

Spaniard Nadal is in the same half of the draw as eight-time champion <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-defeats-david-goffin-for-unbelievable-10th-halle-title-229760&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiw2-fPgozjAhVDNI8KHdgVBOcQFjABegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2rXeGWkvtobHoYuA53fHIJ">Roger Federer</a> who was moved ahead of him to second in the seedings thanks to Wimbledon's grasscourt formula.

Federer starts against Lloyd Harris while defending champion <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-supports-rafael-nadal-over-wimbledon-seedings-criticism-230554&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiEoMSzgozjAhUSinAKHTraASwQFjADegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw212yNB5tCSngY2qVej28g5">Novak Djokovic</a> is up against Philipp Kohlschreiber.

Nadal, the third seed, bidding for a third Wimbledon title and first since 2010, will face Japan's Yuichi Sugita in the first round with Kyrgios up against compatriot Jordan Thompson.

If they both win it will set up a rematch of their 2014 fourth-round clash when <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-winner-rafael-nadal-still-lagging-novak-djokovic-in-rankings-226068&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiEoMSzgozjAhUSinAKHTraASwQFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3UY0066_XyV3AdikI-VjU3">Nadal </a>suffered a shock defeat by a then 19-year-old Kyrgios in the fourth round.

Kyrgios has made headlines for his various misdemeanours more than his tennis since then and Nadal this year accused him of lacking respect after losing to him in Acapulco when Kyrgios served underarm near the end of the match.

In a video post last month Kyrgios described Nadal as "<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/nick-kyrgios-calls-novak-djokovic-cringeworthy-and-rafael-nadal-salty-in-unfiltered-podcast-219103&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjt6cnigozjAhVRnY8KHcKkB5YQFjAEegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3ZwEpxQWegFphwvnTzgCPk">super-salty</a>" after defeats.

Rafael Nadal could face a Wimbledon second-round showdown with controversial Australian Nick Kyrgios after the draw for the men's singles took place on Friday. Spaniard Nadal is in the same half of the draw as eight-time champion Roger Federer who was moved ahead of him to second in the seedings thanks to Wimbledon's grasscourt formula.

Rafael Nadal could face a Wimbledon second-round showdown with controversial Australian Nick Kyrgios after the draw for the men's singles took place on Friday. Spaniard Nadal is in the same half of the draw as eight-time champion Roger Federer who was moved ahead of him to second in the seedings thanks to Wimbledon's grasscourt formula. Federer starts against Lloyd Harris while defending champion Novak Djokovic is up against Philipp Kohlschreiber. Nadal, the third seed, bidding for a third Wimbledon title and first since 2010, will face Japan's Yuichi Sugita in the first round with Kyrgios up against compatriot Jordan Thompson. If they both win it will set up a rematch of their 2014 fourth-round clash when Nadal suffered a shock defeat by a then 19-year-old Kyrgios in the fourth round. Kyrgios has made headlines for his various misdemeanours more than his tennis since then and Nadal this year accused him of lacking respect after losing to him in Acapulco when Kyrgios served underarm near the end of the match. In a video post last month Kyrgios described Nadal as "super-salty" after defeats.

Wimbledon: Rafael Nadal set for potential clash with Nick Kyrgios second round

Lack of grass courts in Serbia will not be detrimental to Novak Djokovic's bid to defend his Wimbledon title, the world number one said in the early stages of his training for the July 1-14 tournament at the All England Club.

"Find me a grass court in Belgrade and I will practice there," Djokovic joked when asked last week by reporters why he chose a hardcourt complex in the Serbian capital's centre to start his preparations.

"We don't have any in Serbia, do we? I am really hopeful that we will build some grass courts soon enough, but these hard courts will do for the time being.

"The reason I am training here at the moment is because it's the most similar surface to grass in terms of ball speed and player movement," he said.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-kyrgios-good-guy-even-if-he-has-no-respect-for-me-228880&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjyiM6zvIbjAhXLMY8KHT8lDyAQFjACegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1UdgOV7XULNLDtBqrG38A3">Djokovic</a>, who is aiming for a fifth Wimbledon title and his 16th Grand Slam crown, plans to play only one or two exhibition matches in the build-up to the grasscourt major.

Asked why he changed the routine and skipped this year's Queen's tournament in London, Djokovic pointed out that whereas he needed as much action as he could get ahead of last year's tournament, he opted for a different approach in 2019.

"The situation is a bit different this time because I played very few matches prior to last year’s Wimbledon due to my injury and the elbow surgery," he said.

"I plummeted down to 22nd on the ATP Tour but the extensive layoff gave me enough time to prepare for Wimbledon by entering the Queen's tournament as a warm-up. This year, the exertions of a lengthy claycourt season prompted me to skip Queen's and go straight to Wimbledon," Djokovic said.

Djokovic was exchanging stinging baseline shots with compatriot Viktor Troicki, a close friend and also a member of Serbia's 2010 Davis Cup-winning team, in hot and humid conditions which he said would play into his hands.

"I can't really complain because I chose to come to Belgrade this time to see my family en route from the French Open to London," he said.

"The weather could actually be a blessing in disguise because it will probably be much cooler in London so training in this searing heat might increase my fitness levels. That aside, the grass is the rarest surface we play on and it requires a very specific routine and style of play. It requires a different approach and adaption time," Djokovic said.

Having missed a chance to win four grand slam tournaments in row for the second time in his career when he lost to <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-thiem-leads-djokovic-in-trouble-as-rain-stops-play-at-semi-final-225374&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjyiM6zvIbjAhXLMY8KHT8lDyAQFjAHegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3BH511Zma_-eH5dygAd61M">Dominic Thiem</a> in last month's French Open semi-finals, Djokovic said he was heading to Wimbledon almost devoid of pressure.

"I put a lot of pressure on myself before the French Open to make it four grand slams in a row again but having failed this time, I am going to Wimbledon with less weight on my shoulders as it's the start of a new cycle," he said.

"I always have the highest ambitions and this year is no different. I am top of the rankings and defending my Wimbledon title, hence I am hoping to go all the way again.

"However, reality can be very different. Apart from the usual suspects, there is a bunch of other players who are strong contenders at Wimbledon.

"Federer and Nadal are always among the top candidates of course and the three of us should be the favourites to win the title. It will be a tough tournament and I will have to take it one step at a time, match by match," added Djokovic.

Lack of grass courts in Serbia will not be detrimental to Novak Djokovic's bid to defend his Wimbledon title, the world number one said in the early stages of his training for the July 1-14 tournament at the All England Club.

Lack of grass courts in Serbia will not be detrimental to Novak Djokovic's bid to defend his Wimbledon title, the world number one said in the early stages of his training for the July 1-14 tournament at the All England Club. "Find me a grass court in Belgrade and I will practice there," Djokovic joked when asked last week by reporters why he chose a hardcourt complex in the Serbian capital's centre to start his preparations. "We don't have any in Serbia, do we? I am really hopeful that we will build some grass courts soon enough, but these hard courts will do for the time being. "The reason I am training here at the moment is because it's the most similar surface to grass in terms of ball speed and player movement," he said. Djokovic, who is aiming for a fifth Wimbledon title and his 16th Grand Slam crown, plans to play only one or two exhibition matches in the build-up to the grasscourt major. Asked why he changed the routine and skipped this year's Queen's tournament in London, Djokovic pointed out that whereas he needed as much action as he could get ahead of last year's tournament, he opted for a different approach in 2019. "The situation is a bit different this time because I played very few matches prior to last year’s Wimbledon due to my injury and the elbow surgery," he said. "I plummeted down to 22nd on the ATP Tour but the extensive layoff gave me enough time to prepare for Wimbledon by entering the Queen's tournament as a warm-up. This year, the exertions of a lengthy claycourt season prompted me to skip Queen's and go straight to Wimbledon," Djokovic said. Djokovic was exchanging stinging baseline shots with compatriot Viktor Troicki, a close friend and also a member of Serbia's 2010 Davis Cup-winning team, in hot and humid conditions which he said would play into his hands. "I can't really complain because I chose to come to Belgrade this time to see my family en route from the French Open to London," he said. "The weather could actually be a blessing in disguise because it will probably be much cooler in London so training in this searing heat might increase my fitness levels. That aside, the grass is the rarest surface we play on and it requires a very specific routine and style of play. It requires a different approach and adaption time," Djokovic said. Having missed a chance to win four grand slam tournaments in row for the second time in his career when he lost to Dominic Thiem in last month's French Open semi-finals, Djokovic said he was heading to Wimbledon almost devoid of pressure. "I put a lot of pressure on myself before the French Open to make it four grand slams in a row again but having failed this time, I am going to Wimbledon with less weight on my shoulders as it's the start of a new cycle," he said. "I always have the highest ambitions and this year is no different. I am top of the rankings and defending my Wimbledon title, hence I am hoping to go all the way again. "However, reality can be very different. Apart from the usual suspects, there is a bunch of other players who are strong contenders at Wimbledon. "Federer and Nadal are always among the top candidates of course and the three of us should be the favourites to win the title. It will be a tough tournament and I will have to take it one step at a time, match by match," added Djokovic.

No grass courts? No problem, says Novak Djokovic as he starts Wimbledon preparation

Novak Djokovic on Wednesday shrugged off Nick Kyrgios's characterisation of him as <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/nick-kyrgios-calls-novak-djokovic-cringeworthy-and-rafael-nadal-salty-in-unfiltered-podcast-219103&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjTt_6_svfiAhWFFogKHUN2BMgQFjAEegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1jPqekymlTHhfypDDXH9vn">"cringeworthy"</a> and "having an obsession with wanting to be liked" by insisting the firebrand Australian is a "good guy".

Kyrgios, more often in the headlines for what he says off the court than what he achieves on it, described world number one Djokovic as desperate to be held in the same high esteem as Roger Federer.

"I feel he wants to be liked so much that I just can't stand him. This celebration thing (Djokovic's 'cup of love' gesture to the crowd) is so cringeworthy," Kyrgios told NCR Tennis Podcast.

"No matter how many Grand Slams he wins, he will never be the greatest to me.&nbsp;For me, Federer will always be the greatest of all time,"&nbsp;Kyrgios said.

Djokovic, however, said <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-nick-kyrgios-pulls-out-of-french-open-organisers-221393&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjTt_6_svfiAhWFFogKHUN2BMgQFjAAegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw17a_kgjHp4fKJfsa1MIm5k">Kyrgios's </a>remarks "don't keep him awake at night".

"I think that basically he is a good guy. I don't know why he said all those things. Does he want to attract attention, does he want to be different?," Djokovic told reporters in Belgrade ahead of defending his Wimbledon title next month.

"He wants apparently to be true, open, transparent, that is part of his character. I respect him. Does he show me the respect to the extent that others do? No, he does not. That's just his way of communicating," Djokovic said.

Djokovic admitted that he had offered to help <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/kyrgios-kicks-water-bottle-throws-chair-gets-disqualified-from-italian-open-219215&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjTt_6_svfiAhWFFogKHUN2BMgQFjAFegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0Z58cGoi1aSlwH0JvQixUr">Kyrgios </a>deal with fame and its various pitfalls.

"Five years ago I even offered him sort of help, in the sense that he could come to me if he needs anything since at the beginning of my career I also experienced criticism against me.&nbsp;I was trying to respect everyone in life. I really don't understand his reasons, but I respect him," Djokovic added.

Four-time Wimbledon champion Djokovic hasn't played since a controversial <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/dominic-thiem-stuns-novak-djokovic-faces-rafael-nadal-in-roland-garros-final-225511&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjT-a7dsvfiAhXFro8KHUOgA9kQFjACegQIDRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1QYHHNKklNjBRX_TFE6g4o">five-set loss to Dominic Thiem</a> in the semi-finals at Roland Garros.

"Because of the very long clay-court season I decided to take a break before Wimbledon," the 15-time Grand Slam winner said after his practice session on Wednesday.

"I'm going to need to get used to the grass, and I have a couple of exhibition games lined up. Just two or three sets each so I can test my tactics and technique,"&nbsp;Djokovic said.

Djokovic, 32, was training with his friend and compatriot Viktor Troicki at an academy owned by former player Janko Tipsarevic and where Djokovic's five-year-old son Stefan was also knocking a tennis ball around.

Novak Djokovic on Wednesday shrugged off Nick Kyrgios's characterisation of him as "cringeworthy" and "having an obsession with wanting to be liked" by insisting the firebrand Australian is a "good guy".

Novak Djokovic on Wednesday shrugged off Nick Kyrgios's characterisation of him as "cringeworthy" and "having an obsession with wanting to be liked" by insisting the firebrand Australian is a "good guy". Kyrgios, more often in the headlines for what he says off the court than what he achieves on it, described world number one Djokovic as desperate to be held in the same high esteem as Roger Federer. "I feel he wants to be liked so much that I just can't stand him. This celebration thing (Djokovic's 'cup of love' gesture to the crowd) is so cringeworthy," Kyrgios told NCR Tennis Podcast. "No matter how many Grand Slams he wins, he will never be the greatest to me. For me, Federer will always be the greatest of all time," Kyrgios said. Djokovic, however, said Kyrgios's remarks "don't keep him awake at night". "I think that basically he is a good guy. I don't know why he said all those things. Does he want to attract attention, does he want to be different?," Djokovic told reporters in Belgrade ahead of defending his Wimbledon title next month. "He wants apparently to be true, open, transparent, that is part of his character. I respect him. Does he show me the respect to the extent that others do? No, he does not. That's just his way of communicating," Djokovic said. Djokovic admitted that he had offered to help Kyrgios deal with fame and its various pitfalls. "Five years ago I even offered him sort of help, in the sense that he could come to me if he needs anything since at the beginning of my career I also experienced criticism against me. I was trying to respect everyone in life. I really don't understand his reasons, but I respect him," Djokovic added. Four-time Wimbledon champion Djokovic hasn't played since a controversial five-set loss to Dominic Thiem in the semi-finals at Roland Garros. "Because of the very long clay-court season I decided to take a break before Wimbledon," the 15-time Grand Slam winner said after his practice session on Wednesday. "I'm going to need to get used to the grass, and I have a couple of exhibition games lined up. Just two or three sets each so I can test my tactics and technique," Djokovic said. Djokovic, 32, was training with his friend and compatriot Viktor Troicki at an academy owned by former player Janko Tipsarevic and where Djokovic's five-year-old son Stefan was also knocking a tennis ball around.

Novak Djokovic: 'Kyrgios good guy even if he has no respect for me'

French Open champion <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-winner-rafael-nadal-still-lagging-novak-djokovic-in-rankings-226068&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjkoqr6q-PiAhUF_XMBHdeMD4IQFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3SAlPzJogU3thvR5xscZeo">Rafa Nadal</a> has said he nearly ended his season after being forced to withdraw from the Indian Wells semi-finals with a knee injury in March but played through the pain at Roland Garros to clinch a <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-win-french-open-title-225750&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjkoqr6q-PiAhUF_XMBHdeMD4IQFjAGegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2YljzKdQdHqMy4AJnjSLma">record-extending 12th title</a>.

Nadal conceded a walkover to Roger Federer at <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/del-potro-stuns-roger-federer-to-win-indian-wells-title-36291&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj7_u2NrOPiAhVB_XMBHRaZBLgQFjAHegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1d2NVGmEcURONt_sfVxopc">Indian Wells</a> and skipped the Miami Open before returning to the tour for the clay season, where he lost three semi-finals in a row before winning titles in Rome and Paris.

"Mentally, after Indian Wells, I suffered a major downturn. I considered shutting down my season to see if my body would recuperate instead of playing through injury after injury," the Spaniard told the ATP website.

"Another option was to press on and play through the pain. Either way, the outlook was bleak. It required a change of mindset... and that doesn't happen overnight. I was reluctant and hesitant to return. Physically, because of another tendon tear in my knee, and on top of going through all the treatment required in the recovery process, there was dealing with the pain," Nadal said.

The 33-year-old said he had struggled to stay motivated because of the constant pain but had been determined to acquit himself well at Roland Garros.

"Between the level of pain and just being sidelined, there came a time when I just felt tired of all of this," he added. "I was sick of always being in pain.

"After Indian Wells, I took a moment to make sense of all of it... I promised myself that I would play through Roland Garros with the attitude and energy necessary to confront all obstacles in my way," Nadal said.

Nadal's French Open victory put him two Grand Slam titles behind Federer's all-time record of 20 and the Spaniard has announced his intention not to play again until Wimbledon, which begins on July 1.

French Open champion Rafa Nadal has said he nearly ended his season after being forced to withdraw from the Indian Wells semi-finals with a knee injury in March but played through the pain at Roland Garros to clinch a record-extending 12th title.

French Open champion Rafa Nadal has said he nearly ended his season after being forced to withdraw from the Indian Wells semi-finals with a knee injury in March but played through the pain at Roland Garros to clinch a record-extending 12th title. Nadal conceded a walkover to Roger Federer at Indian Wells and skipped the Miami Open before returning to the tour for the clay season, where he lost three semi-finals in a row before winning titles in Rome and Paris. "Mentally, after Indian Wells, I suffered a major downturn. I considered shutting down my season to see if my body would recuperate instead of playing through injury after injury," the Spaniard told the ATP website. "Another option was to press on and play through the pain. Either way, the outlook was bleak. It required a change of mindset... and that doesn't happen overnight. I was reluctant and hesitant to return. Physically, because of another tendon tear in my knee, and on top of going through all the treatment required in the recovery process, there was dealing with the pain," Nadal said. The 33-year-old said he had struggled to stay motivated because of the constant pain but had been determined to acquit himself well at Roland Garros. "Between the level of pain and just being sidelined, there came a time when I just felt tired of all of this," he added. "I was sick of always being in pain. "After Indian Wells, I took a moment to make sense of all of it... I promised myself that I would play through Roland Garros with the attitude and energy necessary to confront all obstacles in my way," Nadal said. Nadal's French Open victory put him two Grand Slam titles behind Federer's all-time record of 20 and the Spaniard has announced his intention not to play again until Wimbledon, which begins on July 1.

French Open champ Rafael Nadal considered ending season after Indian Wells injury

Austria's Dominic Thiem has extended an olive branch to Serena Williams after their <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-says-thiem-right-to-fume-over-serena-williams-press-conference-row-223698&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj44vCFouPiAhUS73MBHXanDe8QFjAEegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw29hYpjHTvzM-z9uVux4pIH">media room misunderstanding</a> at the French Open by offering to partner the American in mixed doubles at Wimbledon or the US&nbsp;Open.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-win-french-open-title-225750&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjNqPntoePiAhWx4XMBHW8CBD8QFjAGegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1y5aCDnP91U72DNdaUfVmD">Thiem</a>, who finished runner-up at Roland Garros, was left fuming after being asked to make way for Williams at a post-match news conference following her third-round defeat in the first week of the tournament.

Williams, who had just lost in straight sets to Sofia Kenin, was pushing organisers to give her a room right away and Thiem accused the American of showing "bad personality" and treating him like "a junior".

"Probably it was not Serena's mistake. I find her achievements unbelievable, sensational. I would like to make amends with her in Wimbledon or the US&nbsp;Open mixed doubles," he told reporters on Tuesday.

"In retrospect, it was funny that such an organisational mistake happened at a Grand Slam tournament. What I do not understand is that it blew up so much," Thiem said.

Thiem, a clay court specialist, said he wanted to improve his record at Wimbledon, where he has never reached the quarter-finals. He retired midway through his opening round match against Cypriot Marcos Baghdatis last year.

"Wimbledon is special. I want to show myself better than last year. At that time I was slightly injured and had to give up in the first round. Now I see good chances to get relatively far," the 25-year-old added.

Austria's Dominic Thiem has extended an olive branch to Serena Williams after their media room misunderstanding at the French Open by offering to partner the American in mixed doubles at Wimbledon or the US Open.

Austria's Dominic Thiem has extended an olive branch to Serena Williams after their media room misunderstanding at the French Open by offering to partner the American in mixed doubles at Wimbledon or the US Open. Thiem, who finished runner-up at Roland Garros, was left fuming after being asked to make way for Williams at a post-match news conference following her third-round defeat in the first week of the tournament. Williams, who had just lost in straight sets to Sofia Kenin, was pushing organisers to give her a room right away and Thiem accused the American of showing "bad personality" and treating him like "a junior". "Probably it was not Serena's mistake. I find her achievements unbelievable, sensational. I would like to make amends with her in Wimbledon or the US Open mixed doubles," he told reporters on Tuesday. "In retrospect, it was funny that such an organisational mistake happened at a Grand Slam tournament. What I do not understand is that it blew up so much," Thiem said. Thiem, a clay court specialist, said he wanted to improve his record at Wimbledon, where he has never reached the quarter-finals. He retired midway through his opening round match against Cypriot Marcos Baghdatis last year. "Wimbledon is special. I want to show myself better than last year. At that time I was slightly injured and had to give up in the first round. Now I see good chances to get relatively far," the 25-year-old added.

Dominic Thiem seeks to end Serena Williams row with mixed doubles offer at Wimbledon

'It's very special,' says Rafael Nadal on historic French Open title

Defying the years and one of the most fierce onslaughts he has ever faced at Roland Garros, Rafa Nadal won his 12th French Open crown on Sunday, leaving Dominic Thiem crushed and a packed Parisian stadium shaking their heads in wonder. The first set had been one for the ages, the second ran it close, but after three hours and one minute, all that mattered was that Nadal was once again in familiar pose, flat on his back on the clay, a 6-3 5-7 6-1 6-1 winner to clinch his 18th Grand Slam triumph in total.

Nadal lifts French Open trophy for 12th time

Rafael Nadal claimed a record-stretching 12th French Open title by beating Austrian fourth seed Dominic Thiem 6-3, 5-7, 6-1, 6-1 in a repeat of last year's final on Sunday.

The Spaniard, who now has 18 majors to his name, also becomes the first player to win the same Grand Slam title 12 times, going past Margaret Court's 11 Australian Open titles.

He took command by winning a high-octane first set, but Thiem, who was on court for the fourth consecutive day after weather delays, stayed in the contest and fought back to go level.

Nadal's response was brutal as he won 16 of the first 17 points of the third set against a tiring Thiem, bagged it in less than half an hour.

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18 Grand Slams. 
12 Roland-Garros titles. 
1 <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RG19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RG19</a> <a href="https://t.co/gWXeqGCZGd">pic.twitter.com/gWXeqGCZGd</a>
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The 33-year-old, whose Roland Garros haul started on his debut year in 2005, cruised through the fourth set and wrapped it up when Thiem sent a forehand long.

Rafael Nadal claimed a record-stretching 12th French Open title by beating Austrian fourth seed Dominic Thiem 6-3, 5-7, 6-1, 6-1 in a repeat of last year's final on Sunday.

Rafael Nadal claimed a record-stretching 12th French Open title by beating Austrian fourth seed Dominic Thiem 6-3, 5-7, 6-1, 6-1 in a repeat of last year's final on Sunday. The Spaniard, who now has 18 majors to his name, also becomes the first player to win the same Grand Slam title 12 times, going past Margaret Court's 11 Australian Open titles. He took command by winning a high-octane first set, but Thiem, who was on court for the fourth consecutive day after weather delays, stayed in the contest and fought back to go level. Nadal's response was brutal as he won 16 of the first 17 points of the third set against a tiring Thiem, bagged it in less than half an hour. 18 Grand Slams. 12 Roland-Garros titles. 1 @RafaelNadal.#RG19 pic.twitter.com/gWXeqGCZGd — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 9, 2019 × The 33-year-old, whose Roland Garros haul started on his debut year in 2005, cruised through the fourth set and wrapped it up when Thiem sent a forehand long.

Rafael Nadal beats Dominic Thiem to claim record-stretching French Open title

Novak Djokovic's hope of winning a fourth straight Grand Slam title was in jeopardy at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-rafael-nadal-beats-roger-federer-to-reach-12th-final-225296">French Open</a> on Friday when rain interrupted his semi-final against Austrian Dominic Thiem.

The 32-year-old Serb will return to court at midday on Saturday trailing 6-2, 3-6, 3-1 and with plenty of work to do if he is to get a crack at Rafael Nadal in the final.

Top seed Djokovic is bidding to become the first man in the professional era to twice hold the four big prizes in tennis simultaneously, having also done so in 2016.

In gusty winds, Thiem's powerful groundstrokes helped him dominate the first set and Djokovic was in trouble early in the second when he fended off a break point.

He got the crucial break in the eighth game of the second set, however, when a Thiem forehand kissed the net cord and flew long and Djokovic levelled the match.

With dark clouds closing in Thiem broke serve with a huge forehand early in the third, shortly before the rain started again.

Play was eventually cancelled for the day about 50 minutes later despite no rain falling -- leading to criticism from former <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-ashleigh-barty-marketa-vondrousova-shrug-off-sexism-row-to-reach-their-maiden-final-225269">French Open</a> champion and pundit Jim Courier.

"This is going to sting. These conditions are very difficult for Novak, these are very advantageous for Dominic Thiem," the American, commentating for ITV, said.

"(Rafael) Nadal and (Roger) Federer came ready to accept the conditions and so did Thiem. But Novak came ready to not like them. The happiest person right now would be Novak on his way back home,"&nbsp;Courier said.

Tournament director Guy Forget denied suggestions that Djokovic had left the grounds before play was postponed.

"I do not know who left first, but the two players were told exactly at the same time. They looked at each other and said 'OK',"&nbsp;Forget said.

The semi-final will resume at 1200 local time (1000GMT) on Saturday, organisers said.

With 11-times champion Nadal safely through, organisers said they still hope for a Sunday finish.

Nadal beat Roger Federer in straight sets in the first semi when strong winds also hampered the players.

Novak Djokovic's hope of winning a fourth straight Grand Slam title was in jeopardy at the French Open on Friday when rain interrupted his semi-final against Austrian Dominic Thiem.

Novak Djokovic's hope of winning a fourth straight Grand Slam title was in jeopardy at the French Open on Friday when rain interrupted his semi-final against Austrian Dominic Thiem. The 32-year-old Serb will return to court at midday on Saturday trailing 6-2, 3-6, 3-1 and with plenty of work to do if he is to get a crack at Rafael Nadal in the final. Top seed Djokovic is bidding to become the first man in the professional era to twice hold the four big prizes in tennis simultaneously, having also done so in 2016. In gusty winds, Thiem's powerful groundstrokes helped him dominate the first set and Djokovic was in trouble early in the second when he fended off a break point. He got the crucial break in the eighth game of the second set, however, when a Thiem forehand kissed the net cord and flew long and Djokovic levelled the match. With dark clouds closing in Thiem broke serve with a huge forehand early in the third, shortly before the rain started again. Play was eventually cancelled for the day about 50 minutes later despite no rain falling -- leading to criticism from former French Open champion and pundit Jim Courier. "This is going to sting. These conditions are very difficult for Novak, these are very advantageous for Dominic Thiem," the American, commentating for ITV, said. "(Rafael) Nadal and (Roger) Federer came ready to accept the conditions and so did Thiem. But Novak came ready to not like them. The happiest person right now would be Novak on his way back home," Courier said. Tournament director Guy Forget denied suggestions that Djokovic had left the grounds before play was postponed. "I do not know who left first, but the two players were told exactly at the same time. They looked at each other and said 'OK'," Forget said. The semi-final will resume at 1200 local time (1000GMT) on Saturday, organisers said. With 11-times champion Nadal safely through, organisers said they still hope for a Sunday finish. Nadal beat Roger Federer in straight sets in the first semi when strong winds also hampered the players.

French Open: Thiem leads, Djokovic in trouble as rain stops play at semi-final

Novak Djokovic's dream of becoming just the second man in history to hold all Grand Slam titles at the same time twice was crushed by Dominic Thiem at Roland Garros on Saturday.

Thiem downed the world number one 6-2, 3-6, 7-5, 5-7, 7-5 to set up a repeat of last year's final against 11-time winner and defending champion Rafael Nadal.

Djokovic, who was second best to Thiem when it came to mastering the gloom, wind and damp of Paris, was bidding to join Rod Laver in the Grand Slam history books.

However, it's 25-year-old Austrian fourth seed Thiem who goes on to face Nadal where he will be buoyed by having defeated the 17-time major winner four times on clay in his career.

He will also attempt to become just Austria's second Grand Slam men's champion after Thomas Muster won in Paris in 1995.

Thiem did it the hard way, squandering a 4-1 final set lead and two match points before he sealed his place in the final.

"It was an amazing match. It was my first five-set match at Roland Garros so it was a good one to have," said Thiem after the four hour 13-minute match which was played over two days.

"To be in the semi-finals with the three best players of all time (Nadal beat Roger Federer in the other semi on Friday) is really amazing."

On the challenge of facing Nadal, who has had a day more to recover, he added: "It seems that anyone who gets to the final here plays Rafa.

"He will be the favourite but I hope to just leave it all out on the court again and we will see."

The semi-final had been controversially suspended overnight Friday with Djokovic complaining about the 'extreme wind' in the stadium.

When play was halted, with the top seed trailing 1-3 in the third set, there was still around two hours of daylight remaining.

However, tournament organisers defended the decision after winds of up to 80km/h were forecast throughout the evening in Paris.

'Hurricane conditions'

"I congratulate Dominic, he played great, especially in the important moments," said Djokovic.

"Obviously, when you're playing in hurricane-like conditions it's hard to play your best."

On the resumption Saturday, Djokovic retrieved the break in the seventh game but slipped behind again in the match when Thiem converted a fourth set point.

For his pains, the Serb picked up a warning for unsportsmanlike conduct having already been slapped with a time violation.

Djokovic broke for a 2-1 lead in the fourth set only for the Austrian to level courtesy of an outrageous net cord which flew over the stranded Serb's head.

The top seed broke again for 3-2, held for 4-2 but the dogged Thiem would not relent and brought the set back on serve at 4-4.

However, Djokovic prevailed to send the match into a decider.

With the bulk of crowd support behind him, Thiem dug deep and stretched to a 4-1 lead in the decider as Djokovic's error count at the net piled up.

Rain then forced the players off for just over an hour.

Djokovic rallied to break for 3-4 but handed the initiative right back, allowing Thiem to serve for the match.

The Austrian had two match points but choked as Djokovic went to 5-5.

There was one final twist as Djokovic's 53rd unforced error on a wild forehand set up a third match point which the Austrian gobbled up with his 52nd winner.

Nadal had powered past Federer 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 as the 33-year-old booked a 12th appearance in the championship match.

He could also move to within two of Federer on the all-time Grand Slam title winners' list with an 18th major on Sunday.

Novak Djokovic's dream of becoming just the second man in history to hold all Grand Slam titles at the same time twice was crushed by Dominic Thiem at Roland Garros on Saturday.

Novak Djokovic's dream of becoming just the second man in history to hold all Grand Slam titles at the same time twice was crushed by Dominic Thiem at Roland Garros on Saturday. Thiem downed the world number one 6-2, 3-6, 7-5, 5-7, 7-5 to set up a repeat of last year's final against 11-time winner and defending champion Rafael Nadal. Djokovic, who was second best to Thiem when it came to mastering the gloom, wind and damp of Paris, was bidding to join Rod Laver in the Grand Slam history books. However, it's 25-year-old Austrian fourth seed Thiem who goes on to face Nadal where he will be buoyed by having defeated the 17-time major winner four times on clay in his career. He will also attempt to become just Austria's second Grand Slam men's champion after Thomas Muster won in Paris in 1995. Thiem did it the hard way, squandering a 4-1 final set lead and two match points before he sealed his place in the final. "It was an amazing match. It was my first five-set match at Roland Garros so it was a good one to have," said Thiem after the four hour 13-minute match which was played over two days. "To be in the semi-finals with the three best players of all time (Nadal beat Roger Federer in the other semi on Friday) is really amazing." On the challenge of facing Nadal, who has had a day more to recover, he added: "It seems that anyone who gets to the final here plays Rafa. "He will be the favourite but I hope to just leave it all out on the court again and we will see." The semi-final had been controversially suspended overnight Friday with Djokovic complaining about the 'extreme wind' in the stadium. When play was halted, with the top seed trailing 1-3 in the third set, there was still around two hours of daylight remaining. However, tournament organisers defended the decision after winds of up to 80km/h were forecast throughout the evening in Paris. 'Hurricane conditions' "I congratulate Dominic, he played great, especially in the important moments," said Djokovic. "Obviously, when you're playing in hurricane-like conditions it's hard to play your best." On the resumption Saturday, Djokovic retrieved the break in the seventh game but slipped behind again in the match when Thiem converted a fourth set point. For his pains, the Serb picked up a warning for unsportsmanlike conduct having already been slapped with a time violation. Djokovic broke for a 2-1 lead in the fourth set only for the Austrian to level courtesy of an outrageous net cord which flew over the stranded Serb's head. The top seed broke again for 3-2, held for 4-2 but the dogged Thiem would not relent and brought the set back on serve at 4-4. However, Djokovic prevailed to send the match into a decider. With the bulk of crowd support behind him, Thiem dug deep and stretched to a 4-1 lead in the decider as Djokovic's error count at the net piled up. Rain then forced the players off for just over an hour. Djokovic rallied to break for 3-4 but handed the initiative right back, allowing Thiem to serve for the match. The Austrian had two match points but choked as Djokovic went to 5-5. There was one final twist as Djokovic's 53rd unforced error on a wild forehand set up a third match point which the Austrian gobbled up with his 52nd winner. Nadal had powered past Federer 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 as the 33-year-old booked a 12th appearance in the championship match. He could also move to within two of Federer on the all-time Grand Slam title winners' list with an 18th major on Sunday.

Dominic Thiem stuns Novak Djokovic, faces Rafael Nadal in Roland Garros final

Defending champion Rafael Nadal powered past Roger Federer in the French Open semi-finals on Friday, claiming his first win over his old rival in five years to move within one victory of a record-extending 12th Roland Garros title.

The 33-year-old produced a masterful performance to get past Federer 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 in the last four on Court Philippe Chatrier and set up a final clash with either world number one Novak Djokovic or Austrian fourth seed Dominic Thiem on Sunday.

Federer had won the last five meetings in their 38-match rivalry, but Nadal got the better of him in the semi-final.

In their five previous meetings at Roland Garros, including four finals, Federer had never managed more than one set.

Nadal will face the winner from the second semi-final between Novak Djokovic and Dominic Thiem in the final on Sunday.

Defending champion Rafael Nadal powered past Roger Federer in the French Open semi-finals on Friday, claiming his first win over his old rival in five years to move within one victory of a record-extending 12th Roland Garros title.

Defending champion Rafael Nadal powered past Roger Federer in the French Open semi-finals on Friday, claiming his first win over his old rival in five years to move within one victory of a record-extending 12th Roland Garros title. The 33-year-old produced a masterful performance to get past Federer 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 in the last four on Court Philippe Chatrier and set up a final clash with either world number one Novak Djokovic or Austrian fourth seed Dominic Thiem on Sunday. Federer had won the last five meetings in their 38-match rivalry, but Nadal got the better of him in the semi-final. In their five previous meetings at Roland Garros, including four finals, Federer had never managed more than one set. Nadal will face the winner from the second semi-final between Novak Djokovic and Dominic Thiem in the final on Sunday.

French Open: Rafael Nadal beats Roger Federer to reach 12th final

Novak Djokovic reached his ninth Roland Garros semi-final Thursday, sweeping past Alexander Zverev to keep his bid to become just the second man to hold all four Slams at the same time twice firmly on track.

Top seed and world number one Djokovic won 7-5, 6-2, 6-2 and will face Austrian fourth seed Dominic Thiem on Friday in what will be his 35th Grand Slam semi-final.

Thiem reached the semi-finals for a fourth successive year with a 6-2, 6-4, 6-2 victory against Russian 10th seed Karen Khachanov.

"It was a big challenge for me today but I was hitting the ball more cleanly," said 32-year-old Djokovic.

"It's a great joy to be in the semi-finals again."

The problem for Djokovic now in his pursuit of a second title in Paris and 16th major is the weather.

Heavy rain is forecast to hit Paris again on Friday after Wednesday's washout.

"I just have to keep my concentration and stay in the moment. I hope to continue like this," said the Serb.

Friday's other semi-final will see Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer resume their great rivalry, meaning this is the first time the top four seeds have all reached the last four at a Grand Slam since the 2013 Australian Open.

The last time Djokovic made the semi-finals was 2016 when he went on to win the title.

He has a 6-2 career lead over Thiem and beat the Austrian in the Rome semi-finals in the run-up to Paris.

However, Thiem came out on top in the Roland Garros quarter-finals in straight sets in 2017.

Fifth seed Zverev, bidding to reach a maiden Slam semi-final and become the first German in the last-four in Paris since Michael Stich in 1996, made the stronger start.

The 22-year-old had break points in the third and fifth games of the opening set and finally broke through for a 5-4 lead.

But top seed Djokovic levelled immediately before claiming the set on a Zverev double fault.

Djokovic dominated the second set as breaks in the second and eighth games were enough to tighten his grip.

The world number one saved two more break points in the opening game of the third set and again made the German pay with a break for 4-2.

Zverev's 40th and last unforced error proved to be the final point of the one-sided quarter-final.

"I had chances in the first set but he broke back and was in control," said the German.

"When he's in control, he's tough to beat. He's number one for a reason.

"I expected more from this tournament but once the first set slipped away, it was difficult."

The world number five finished with eight double faults while converting just one of eight break points.

Thiem was utterly dominant on Court Suzanne Lenglen, hammering 29 winners, as his erratic opponent contrived to tally 37 unforced errors and only 17 winners.

"The key was to control the points. I'll be ready to maybe come back here tomorrow. This is one of my favourite courts in the world," said the 25-year-old, who is chasing a maiden Grand Slam title.

Khachanov had impressed in a fourth-round victory over Juan Martin del Potro, but was never in with a chance in the quarter-final, which was delayed from Wednesday due to rain, dropping serve twice in the opening set.

He managed to get to 4-4 in the second, only to see Thiem reel off eight of the next 10 games and seal a last-four spot without even facing a break point in the match.

Novak Djokovic reached his ninth Roland Garros semi-final Thursday, sweeping past Alexander Zverev to keep his bid to become just the second man to hold all four Slams at the same time twice firmly on track.

Novak Djokovic reached his ninth Roland Garros semi-final Thursday, sweeping past Alexander Zverev to keep his bid to become just the second man to hold all four Slams at the same time twice firmly on track. Top seed and world number one Djokovic won 7-5, 6-2, 6-2 and will face Austrian fourth seed Dominic Thiem on Friday in what will be his 35th Grand Slam semi-final. Thiem reached the semi-finals for a fourth successive year with a 6-2, 6-4, 6-2 victory against Russian 10th seed Karen Khachanov. "It was a big challenge for me today but I was hitting the ball more cleanly," said 32-year-old Djokovic. "It's a great joy to be in the semi-finals again." The problem for Djokovic now in his pursuit of a second title in Paris and 16th major is the weather. Heavy rain is forecast to hit Paris again on Friday after Wednesday's washout. "I just have to keep my concentration and stay in the moment. I hope to continue like this," said the Serb. Friday's other semi-final will see Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer resume their great rivalry, meaning this is the first time the top four seeds have all reached the last four at a Grand Slam since the 2013 Australian Open. The last time Djokovic made the semi-finals was 2016 when he went on to win the title. He has a 6-2 career lead over Thiem and beat the Austrian in the Rome semi-finals in the run-up to Paris. However, Thiem came out on top in the Roland Garros quarter-finals in straight sets in 2017. Fifth seed Zverev, bidding to reach a maiden Slam semi-final and become the first German in the last-four in Paris since Michael Stich in 1996, made the stronger start. The 22-year-old had break points in the third and fifth games of the opening set and finally broke through for a 5-4 lead. But top seed Djokovic levelled immediately before claiming the set on a Zverev double fault. Djokovic dominated the second set as breaks in the second and eighth games were enough to tighten his grip. The world number one saved two more break points in the opening game of the third set and again made the German pay with a break for 4-2. Zverev's 40th and last unforced error proved to be the final point of the one-sided quarter-final. "I had chances in the first set but he broke back and was in control," said the German. "When he's in control, he's tough to beat. He's number one for a reason. "I expected more from this tournament but once the first set slipped away, it was difficult." The world number five finished with eight double faults while converting just one of eight break points. Thiem was utterly dominant on Court Suzanne Lenglen, hammering 29 winners, as his erratic opponent contrived to tally 37 unforced errors and only 17 winners. "The key was to control the points. I'll be ready to maybe come back here tomorrow. This is one of my favourite courts in the world," said the 25-year-old, who is chasing a maiden Grand Slam title. Khachanov had impressed in a fourth-round victory over Juan Martin del Potro, but was never in with a chance in the quarter-final, which was delayed from Wednesday due to rain, dropping serve twice in the opening set. He managed to get to 4-4 in the second, only to see Thiem reel off eight of the next 10 games and seal a last-four spot without even facing a break point in the match.

Novak Djokovic to face Dominic Thiem in his ninth Roland Garros semi-final

Facing two teenagers in as many rounds in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-rafael-nadal-to-meet-in-french-open-semi-finals-224365">French Open</a> has left Simona Halep feeling "old", but the 27-year-old said the experience of being a Grand Slam winner can help her tackle youthful rivals, who show no fear.

Having dismantled 18-year-old Iga Swiatek of Poland 6-1, 6-0 in the last round, defending champion Halep faces a potentially tricky encounter against American Amanda Anisimova in the quarter-finals at Roland Garros on Wednesday.

While she may not like to be reminded of the 10-year age gap between Anisimova and herself, Halep is confident she can handle whatever the world number 51 throws at her.

"I feel old... very old. To play against someone 10 years younger than me, that's not easy... they're young, they have nothing to lose so every match is tough," Halep said.

"When you face someone that is higher ranked than you, you don't have, you know, fear. You just go and want to show your best tennis. So I feel like they have this feeling all the time when they play with someone better ranked. But also, I take my advantage and I say that I'm experienced. So we'll see," added Halep.

Anisimova announced herself on the big stage in January by reaching the fourth round of the Australian Open and won her maiden WTA title in Bogota in April.

She has moved into the last eight in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/johanna-konta-first-british-woman-in-roland-garros-semis-in-36-years-224347">Paris </a>without dropping a set, scoring a comprehensive 6-3, 6-0 win over Aliona Bolsova in the fourth round to set up a dream meeting with Halep.

"I can't describe how excited I am. It's amazing playing her. She won it the previous year. So honestly, I couldn't ask for a better match," Anisimova said.

"I'm just extremely happy and excited for the next round... I'm just gonna go out there... I have no pressure. Hopefully, I can bring my best game," added Anisimova.

In the other quarter-final, American Madison Keys squares off against Ashleigh Barty.

In the men's draw, top seed Novak Djokovic continues his quest to become the first man in the professional era to twice hold all four major titles simultaneously when he takes on Alexander Zverev.

Austrian fourth seed Dominic Thiem faces Russia's Karen Khachanov. 
&nbsp;

Facing two teenagers in as many rounds in the French Open has left Simona Halep feeling "old", but the 27-year-old said the experience of being a Grand Slam winner can help her tackle youthful rivals, who show no fear.

Facing two teenagers in as many rounds in the French Open has left Simona Halep feeling "old", but the 27-year-old said the experience of being a Grand Slam winner can help her tackle youthful rivals, who show no fear. Having dismantled 18-year-old Iga Swiatek of Poland 6-1, 6-0 in the last round, defending champion Halep faces a potentially tricky encounter against American Amanda Anisimova in the quarter-finals at Roland Garros on Wednesday. While she may not like to be reminded of the 10-year age gap between Anisimova and herself, Halep is confident she can handle whatever the world number 51 throws at her. "I feel old... very old. To play against someone 10 years younger than me, that's not easy... they're young, they have nothing to lose so every match is tough," Halep said. "When you face someone that is higher ranked than you, you don't have, you know, fear. You just go and want to show your best tennis. So I feel like they have this feeling all the time when they play with someone better ranked. But also, I take my advantage and I say that I'm experienced. So we'll see," added Halep. Anisimova announced herself on the big stage in January by reaching the fourth round of the Australian Open and won her maiden WTA title in Bogota in April. She has moved into the last eight in Paris without dropping a set, scoring a comprehensive 6-3, 6-0 win over Aliona Bolsova in the fourth round to set up a dream meeting with Halep. "I can't describe how excited I am. It's amazing playing her. She won it the previous year. So honestly, I couldn't ask for a better match," Anisimova said. "I'm just extremely happy and excited for the next round... I'm just gonna go out there... I have no pressure. Hopefully, I can bring my best game," added Anisimova. In the other quarter-final, American Madison Keys squares off against Ashleigh Barty. In the men's draw, top seed Novak Djokovic continues his quest to become the first man in the professional era to twice hold all four major titles simultaneously when he takes on Alexander Zverev. Austrian fourth seed Dominic Thiem faces Russia's Karen Khachanov.

French Open: Simona Halep counting on experience to tame teenager Anisimova to reach semis

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