World number one Iga Swiatek shook off some early nerves to extend her winning series to a staggering 33 as she beat American Jessica Pegula 6-3 6-2 to book her spot in the French Open semi-finals on Wednesday. Swiatek, who turned 21 on Tuesday, is on the longest unbeaten run in the women`s tour since Serena Williams bagged 34 victories in succession in 2013.

The Polish player, gunning for a second title in three years at Roland Garros, appeared a tad shaky in the initial games before marching past the 11th seed to set up a meeting with Russian Daria Kasatkina for a place in Saturday`s final. The 2020 champion is bidding to become the fourth player since 2000 to lift the Suzanne Lenglen Cup multiple times after Justine Henin, Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova.

"She was playing very low so to be good I had to be low on my legs. It was the key and I`m pretty happy I was playing with a good dynamic to push her back a little bit," said Swiatek on a sunbathed, yet windswept court Philippe Chatrier. "Sometimes stress is a positive thing, it`s going to make you more active and more tense so you can play a good performance. So I tried to use it that way."

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Two days after dropping her first set of the tournament, Swiatek got off to a fast start, stealing Pegula`s serve with a crosscourt forehand winner. But unforced errors immediately crept up in her game and she was immediately broken back and showed early signs of nerves.

The Pole, however, went up a break again to lead 4-3 before holding and setting up set points in the ninth game. Pegula did her a favour by sending a routine forehand wide on the second. Another of those gave Swiatek a break for 3-1 in the second set and she kept her grip, only squandering three match points before wrapping it up on Pegula`s serve with a booming backhand winner down the line.

World number one Iga Swiatek shook off some early nerves to extend her winning series to a staggering 33 as she beat American Jessica Pegula 6-3 6-2 to book her spot in the French Open semi-finals on Wednesday.

World number one Iga Swiatek shook off some early nerves to extend her winning series to a staggering 33 as she beat American Jessica Pegula 6-3 6-2 to book her spot in the French Open semi-finals on Wednesday. Swiatek, who turned 21 on Tuesday, is on the longest unbeaten run in the women`s tour since Serena Williams bagged 34 victories in succession in 2013. The Polish player, gunning for a second title in three years at Roland Garros, appeared a tad shaky in the initial games before marching past the 11th seed to set up a meeting with Russian Daria Kasatkina for a place in Saturday`s final. The 2020 champion is bidding to become the fourth player since 2000 to lift the Suzanne Lenglen Cup multiple times after Justine Henin, Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova. "She was playing very low so to be good I had to be low on my legs. It was the key and I`m pretty happy I was playing with a good dynamic to push her back a little bit," said Swiatek on a sunbathed, yet windswept court Philippe Chatrier. "Sometimes stress is a positive thing, it`s going to make you more active and more tense so you can play a good performance. So I tried to use it that way." ALSO READ | Alexander Zverev outlasts Carlos Alcaraz to enter semi-finals at French Open 2022 Two days after dropping her first set of the tournament, Swiatek got off to a fast start, stealing Pegula`s serve with a crosscourt forehand winner. But unforced errors immediately crept up in her game and she was immediately broken back and showed early signs of nerves. The Pole, however, went up a break again to lead 4-3 before holding and setting up set points in the ninth game. Pegula did her a favour by sending a routine forehand wide on the second. Another of those gave Swiatek a break for 3-1 in the second set and she kept her grip, only squandering three match points before wrapping it up on Pegula`s serve with a booming backhand winner down the line.

World No. 1 Iga Swiatek shakes off early nerves to enter French Open semi-finals

German third seed Alexander Zverev capitalised on an error-filled performance from Carlos Alcaraz to tame the high-flying teenage Spaniard 6-4 6-4 4-6 7-6(7) on Tuesday and reach a second straight semi-final at the French Open. 
This was the first time the 25-year-old Zverev defeated a top-10 opponent at a Grand Slam in 12 attempts and his victory came against a player who came into the contest having won 14 consecutive matches.

Zverev, who lost to Stefanos Tsitsipas in the 2021 semi-final, had a 2-1 head-to-head lead against Alcaraz but his opponent had won their most recent meeting -- the only one on clay -- this month in the final of the ATP Masters in Madrid.

Alcaraz made 56 unforced errors as Zverev saved a set point in the fourth set tiebreak before converting his second match point to set up a meeting against either world number one Novak Djokovic or 13-time French Open champion Rafa Nadal.

"At the end of the day I knew I had to play absolutely my best tennis today from the start," a beaming Zverev said on court. "He kept coming back.

"He is going to win this tournament a lot of times not just once. I hope I can win it before he starts beating us all and I have no chance."

On a sun-bathed Court Philippe Chatrier, Zverev brought his best form to the match, serving strongly and remaining solid in the rallies against his athletic opponent who chased down almost everything that came his side of the net. 
But Alcaraz seemed too eager to impose himself on the match early and it resulted in an array of unforced errors from the young Spaniard.

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A couple of mistakes from Alcaraz in the fifth game opened the door for Zverev and he pounced to get the first break, which proved enough for him to bag the opening set.

Alcaraz, bubbling with energy and with most of the boisterous crowd on his side, became increasingly frustrated, throwing his hands up and muttering to himself but he could not find a way to rein in his unforced errors.

He committed 16 in each of the opening two sets and a break in the seventh game of the second gave the German the advantage which he turned into a 2-0 lead in the match.

Alcaraz`s fearless attitude bore fruit in the third set when he turned on his magic to break Zverev`s delivery in the 10th game and get a foothold in the match.

With Alcaraz`s fightback gaining momentum, Zverev stayed calm on his service games and, with a stunning backhand down the line on the run and an Alcaraz double fault, the German got his nose ahead.

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The Spaniard would, however, not go down without a fight and with Zverev serving for the match, Alcaraz converted a breakpoint with a backhand winner to get the set back on serve and get the crowd back on their feet.

Zverev saved a set point and then converted his second matchpoint with a breathtaking backhand service return, letting out a huge roar after completing the victory after three hours and 18 minutes.

"For me obviously when it is shady and much slower it is not perfect for me," Zverev added. "I did not get broken once when it was sunny. The match was turning his way, I`m extremely happy I won the tiebreak."

German third seed Alexander Zverev capitalised on an error-filled performance from Carlos Alcaraz to tame the high-flying teenage Spaniard 6-4 6-4 4-6 7-6(7) on Tuesday and reach a second straight semi-final at the French Open.

German third seed Alexander Zverev capitalised on an error-filled performance from Carlos Alcaraz to tame the high-flying teenage Spaniard 6-4 6-4 4-6 7-6(7) on Tuesday and reach a second straight semi-final at the French Open. This was the first time the 25-year-old Zverev defeated a top-10 opponent at a Grand Slam in 12 attempts and his victory came against a player who came into the contest having won 14 consecutive matches. Zverev, who lost to Stefanos Tsitsipas in the 2021 semi-final, had a 2-1 head-to-head lead against Alcaraz but his opponent had won their most recent meeting -- the only one on clay -- this month in the final of the ATP Masters in Madrid. Alcaraz made 56 unforced errors as Zverev saved a set point in the fourth set tiebreak before converting his second match point to set up a meeting against either world number one Novak Djokovic or 13-time French Open champion Rafa Nadal. "At the end of the day I knew I had to play absolutely my best tennis today from the start," a beaming Zverev said on court. "He kept coming back. "He is going to win this tournament a lot of times not just once. I hope I can win it before he starts beating us all and I have no chance." On a sun-bathed Court Philippe Chatrier, Zverev brought his best form to the match, serving strongly and remaining solid in the rallies against his athletic opponent who chased down almost everything that came his side of the net. But Alcaraz seemed too eager to impose himself on the match early and it resulted in an array of unforced errors from the young Spaniard. Also Read: 'What a battle': Rod Laver, Del Potro & others react as Nadal beats Djokovic at French Open 2022 A couple of mistakes from Alcaraz in the fifth game opened the door for Zverev and he pounced to get the first break, which proved enough for him to bag the opening set. Alcaraz, bubbling with energy and with most of the boisterous crowd on his side, became increasingly frustrated, throwing his hands up and muttering to himself but he could not find a way to rein in his unforced errors. He committed 16 in each of the opening two sets and a break in the seventh game of the second gave the German the advantage which he turned into a 2-0 lead in the match. Alcaraz`s fearless attitude bore fruit in the third set when he turned on his magic to break Zverev`s delivery in the 10th game and get a foothold in the match. With Alcaraz`s fightback gaining momentum, Zverev stayed calm on his service games and, with a stunning backhand down the line on the run and an Alcaraz double fault, the German got his nose ahead. Also Read: Had my chances but lost to a better player, says Novak Djokovic after going down against Rafael Nadal The Spaniard would, however, not go down without a fight and with Zverev serving for the match, Alcaraz converted a breakpoint with a backhand winner to get the set back on serve and get the crowd back on their feet. Zverev saved a set point and then converted his second matchpoint with a breathtaking backhand service return, letting out a huge roar after completing the victory after three hours and 18 minutes. "For me obviously when it is shady and much slower it is not perfect for me," Zverev added. "I did not get broken once when it was sunny. The match was turning his way, I`m extremely happy I won the tiebreak."

Alexander Zverev outlasts Carlos Alcaraz to enter semi-finals at French Open 2022

World No.1 women`s tennis player Iga Swiatek was stretched all the way by Chinese teenager Zheng Qinwen in the fourth round of the French Open, before the Pole rallied for a three-set win to set up a quarterfinal clash with American Jessica Pegula.

The former winner at Roland Garros dropped her first set in more than a month against Zheng, but rallied for a 6-7(5), 6-0, 6-2 win inside Court Philippe-Chatrier to extend her unbeaten run to 32 consecutive matches.

Swiatek last lost a set on April 23, when she was taken the distance by Liudmila Samsonovaof Russia in the semifinals of the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix. She was pushed hard by the 19-year-old Zheng in an opening set that lasted a gruelling 82 minutes.

The Chinese saved five set points, and rallied from 5-2 deficits in both the set and the ensuing tiebreak.

"I tried to loosen up my hand a little bit. She (Zheng) played really good tennis with heavy topspins. The key in the second set was kind of not letting her do that again. I`m pretty happy that I could play a little bit faster and put pressure on her. I felt like I was a little bit in trouble, and I was able to come back and really refocus and find other solutions, so that`s great," conceded Swiatek, the 2020 champion at Roland Garros.

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Zheng seemed to be tiring in the second set after the gruelling first set. After losing the first three games, she took a medical timeout and emerged with her right upper leg heavily wrapped. Zheng revealed after the match that she was dealing with stomach trouble.

"I got really pained stomach and I try my best, but it`s just, in the second and third set, I couldn`t, I didn`t have power to scream one, "Come on," even and it was really tough," Zheng was quoted as saying by wtatennis.com.

"I want to fight, I really, really want to fight, but I just don`t have power and it was really tough. I couldn`t show my tennis today in the second and third set, even in the first set, I`m really not happy with my performance.

"The leg was, it was also tough. That compared to the stomach was easy ... If I don`t talk about today, I`m happy with my performance all this run. To play against the No. 1 in the world, I feel really I enjoy on the court. If I don`t have my stomach, I think I could enjoy more, like to run better and to hit more harder, to give more effort on court.

"It`s pity that I couldn`t give that what I want to give today. I just want, the next time I play against her, I have perfect shape and go for the next fight," added Zheng.

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Following the 2 hour, 45-minute slugfest, Swiatek will face 11th-seeded American Jessica Pegula. Pegula rallied for a three-set win over Romania`s Irina-Camelia Begu, 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, to reach the last eight in Paris for the first time.

Pegula had previously never won a set against Begu. The Romanian won their first two meetings, including at the WTA 250 in Melbourne to start this season. She`s one of three American players to reach the quarterfinals, as Sloane Stephens and Coco Gauff will play in the last eight in the bottom half.

World No.1 women`s tennis player Iga Swiatek was stretched all the way by Chinese teenager Zheng Qinwen in the fourth round of the French Open, before the Pole rallied for a three-set win to set up a quarterfinal clash with American Jessica Pegula.

World No.1 women`s tennis player Iga Swiatek was stretched all the way by Chinese teenager Zheng Qinwen in the fourth round of the French Open, before the Pole rallied for a three-set win to set up a quarterfinal clash with American Jessica Pegula. The former winner at Roland Garros dropped her first set in more than a month against Zheng, but rallied for a 6-7(5), 6-0, 6-2 win inside Court Philippe-Chatrier to extend her unbeaten run to 32 consecutive matches. Swiatek last lost a set on April 23, when she was taken the distance by Liudmila Samsonovaof Russia in the semifinals of the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix. She was pushed hard by the 19-year-old Zheng in an opening set that lasted a gruelling 82 minutes. The Chinese saved five set points, and rallied from 5-2 deficits in both the set and the ensuing tiebreak. "I tried to loosen up my hand a little bit. She (Zheng) played really good tennis with heavy topspins. The key in the second set was kind of not letting her do that again. I`m pretty happy that I could play a little bit faster and put pressure on her. I felt like I was a little bit in trouble, and I was able to come back and really refocus and find other solutions, so that`s great," conceded Swiatek, the 2020 champion at Roland Garros. Also Read: 'Wish I can be a man': China's Zheng Qinwen dejected after menstrual cramps derail her French Open campaign Zheng seemed to be tiring in the second set after the gruelling first set. After losing the first three games, she took a medical timeout and emerged with her right upper leg heavily wrapped. Zheng revealed after the match that she was dealing with stomach trouble. "I got really pained stomach and I try my best, but it`s just, in the second and third set, I couldn`t, I didn`t have power to scream one, "Come on," even and it was really tough," Zheng was quoted as saying by wtatennis.com. "I want to fight, I really, really want to fight, but I just don`t have power and it was really tough. I couldn`t show my tennis today in the second and third set, even in the first set, I`m really not happy with my performance. "The leg was, it was also tough. That compared to the stomach was easy ... If I don`t talk about today, I`m happy with my performance all this run. To play against the No. 1 in the world, I feel really I enjoy on the court. If I don`t have my stomach, I think I could enjoy more, like to run better and to hit more harder, to give more effort on court. "It`s pity that I couldn`t give that what I want to give today. I just want, the next time I play against her, I have perfect shape and go for the next fight," added Zheng. Also Read: French Open 2022: Marin Cilic knocks out Russian second seed Daniil Medvedev to set up Rublev clash Following the 2 hour, 45-minute slugfest, Swiatek will face 11th-seeded American Jessica Pegula. Pegula rallied for a three-set win over Romania`s Irina-Camelia Begu, 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, to reach the last eight in Paris for the first time. Pegula had previously never won a set against Begu. The Romanian won their first two meetings, including at the WTA 250 in Melbourne to start this season. She`s one of three American players to reach the quarterfinals, as Sloane Stephens and Coco Gauff will play in the last eight in the bottom half.

World No.1 Iga Swiatek survives tough three-setter against Zheng Qinwen in French Open quarters

Zheng Qinwen was utterly disappointed and felt she could have done a lot more than what she managed to pull off on the court against world no.1 Iga Swiatek at the French Open 2022 on Monday. Quinwen was up against arguably the best women's tennis player in the world at the moment in the fourth round of the French Open and the Chinese teenager was aiming to give her all in a bid to create a massive upset. However, it wasn't meant to be as she suffered from menstrual cramps which derailed her bid to put up a fight against the world no.1.

Qinwen started off well and took the first set off Swiatek as she looked on the way to staging a massive upset in Paris. The Chinese teenager won the first set in a tiebreak before suffering in pain due to cramps. The Chinese star had to opt for a medical time out midway through the second set when she was 3-0 down against Swiatek.

Quinwen revealed she didn't feel the pain during the first set but the cramps became unbearable in the second set. She was spotted getting her back massaged by the medical support staff before leaving for the locker room and returning with her right thigh strapped.

However, Swiatek had taken control of the game by then and was in her groove. The Polish world no.1 wasted no time in clinching the second set 6-0 before taking the deciding third set 6-2 to end Qinwen's campaign at the French Open 2022.

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Disappointed after being robbed of a chance to perform due to menstrual cramps, the Chinese star revealed she was experiencing a lot of pain in her stomach and wished she could be a man on the court.

"Yeah, the leg was also tough. That compared to the stomach was easy... I cannot play my tennis, (my) stomach was too painful," Quinwen told reporters.

"It`s just girls' things, you know. The first day is always so tough and then I have to do sport and I always have so much pain in the first day. And I couldn`t go against my nature. I wish I can be a man on court, but I cannot in that moment... I really wish I can be (a) man (so) that I don`t have to suffer from this," she added.

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The 19-year-old is currently ranked 70 in the world and has been impressive at a young age. She made his Grand Slam debut at the Australian Open earlier this year and there has been no looking back ever since for the Chinese teenager. Quinwen said she enjoyed playing against world no.1 Swiatek but would have liked to run better and play with more intensity if not for the cramps.

"If I don't talk about today, I`m happy with my performance (on) this run. And to play against the number one in the world, I felt I really enjoyed (it) on the court," said Quinwen.

"If I don't have my stomach (pain) I think I could enjoy more, like to run better and to hit harder, to give more effort on court. It`s a pity that I couldn`t give what I want to give today. I just want (it so that) next time I play against her, I (am in) perfect shape," she added.

Zheng Qinwen was utterly disappointed and felt she could have done a lot more than what she managed to pull off on the court against world no.1 Iga Swiatek at the French Open 2022 on Monday.

Zheng Qinwen was utterly disappointed and felt she could have done a lot more than what she managed to pull off on the court against world no.1 Iga Swiatek at the French Open 2022 on Monday. Quinwen was up against arguably the best women's tennis player in the world at the moment in the fourth round of the French Open and the Chinese teenager was aiming to give her all in a bid to create a massive upset. However, it wasn't meant to be as she suffered from menstrual cramps which derailed her bid to put up a fight against the world no.1. Qinwen started off well and took the first set off Swiatek as she looked on the way to staging a massive upset in Paris. The Chinese teenager won the first set in a tiebreak before suffering in pain due to cramps. The Chinese star had to opt for a medical time out midway through the second set when she was 3-0 down against Swiatek. Quinwen revealed she didn't feel the pain during the first set but the cramps became unbearable in the second set. She was spotted getting her back massaged by the medical support staff before leaving for the locker room and returning with her right thigh strapped. However, Swiatek had taken control of the game by then and was in her groove. The Polish world no.1 wasted no time in clinching the second set 6-0 before taking the deciding third set 6-2 to end Qinwen's campaign at the French Open 2022. Also Read: French Open - Teenager Holger Rune shows last year's finalist Stefanos Tsitsipas the exit door Disappointed after being robbed of a chance to perform due to menstrual cramps, the Chinese star revealed she was experiencing a lot of pain in her stomach and wished she could be a man on the court. "Yeah, the leg was also tough. That compared to the stomach was easy... I cannot play my tennis, (my) stomach was too painful," Quinwen told reporters. "It`s just girls' things, you know. The first day is always so tough and then I have to do sport and I always have so much pain in the first day. And I couldn`t go against my nature. I wish I can be a man on court, but I cannot in that moment... I really wish I can be (a) man (so) that I don`t have to suffer from this," she added. Also Read: French Open 2022 - Marin Cilic knocks out Russian second seed Daniil Medvedev to set up Rublev clash The 19-year-old is currently ranked 70 in the world and has been impressive at a young age. She made his Grand Slam debut at the Australian Open earlier this year and there has been no looking back ever since for the Chinese teenager. Quinwen said she enjoyed playing against world no.1 Swiatek but would have liked to run better and play with more intensity if not for the cramps. "If I don't talk about today, I`m happy with my performance (on) this run. And to play against the number one in the world, I felt I really enjoyed (it) on the court," said Quinwen. "If I don't have my stomach (pain) I think I could enjoy more, like to run better and to hit harder, to give more effort on court. It`s a pity that I couldn`t give what I want to give today. I just want (it so that) next time I play against her, I (am in) perfect shape," she added.

'Wish I can be a man': China's Zheng Qinwen dejected after menstrual cramps derail her French Open campaign

Croatian Marin Cilic did not put a foot wrong as he crushed Russia`s world number two Daniil Medvedev 6-2 6-3 6-2 in a lopsided contest on Monday to return to the French Open quarter-finals after a gap of four years. The 2014 U.S. Open champion, seeded 20th, dominated proceedings from the start and finished off the contest in an hour and 45 minutes to reach the last eight stage on the Parisian clay for the third time in his career.

Medvedev came into the match having won all three previous meetings against the 33-year-old Croatian but cut a sorry figure under the lights on Court Philippe Chatrier in their first contest on clay.

"It was absolutely a fantastic match from the first point to the last," Cilic said in his interview on court.

"I enjoyed the atmosphere, enjoyed the night session here, played incredible tennis, one of the best matches of my career from start to finish."

Such was the Croatian`s domination that he did not face a break point and will next meet another Russian in seventh seed Andrey Rublev for a place in the semi-finals.

Cilic played aggressively, pinning Medvedev behind the baseline and advancing to the net at every opportunity as the Russian failed to find any zing behind his flat groundstrokes in the cooler night conditions.

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Unable to find a solution to Cilic`s pinpoint winners, Medvedev kept shaking his head and also poured out his frustration at the chair umpire over what he felt was very little time to rest during changeovers.

Medvedev`s form on the night was more reminiscent of his four consecutive first-round exits at Roland Garros before he made the quarter-finals last year.

Cilic won four consecutive games from 2-2 to bag the opening set in 31 minutes and another break in the sixth game was enough for him to take the second set.

Australian Open finalist Medvedev, who won the 2021 U.S. Open, then took a lengthy toilet break but served a double fault on his first point after returning to court.

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Another double fault in that opening game led to Medvedev getting broken. The 26-year-old`s problems with double faults and unforced errors continued as Cilic broke him again to jump into a 4-0 third-set lead.

There was no way back for Medvedev, who briefly rose to world number one earlier this year, and Cilic converted his second match point when the Russian found the net with a backhand return.

"When I`m playing my best tennis, everything is working out, from the serve, return, movement. These last 10-15 days were great for me - great training, great matches, very consistent tennis," Cilic added.

"Against guys like Daniil you have to be able to sustain that high level throughout the match and if you give him a chance, he`s going to be back. So I was really focused to keep going and definitely extremely pleased with that."

Croatian Marin Cilic did not put a foot wrong as he crushed Russia`s world number two Daniil Medvedev 6-2 6-3 6-2 in a lopsided contest on Monday to return to the French Open quarter-finals after a gap of four years.

Croatian Marin Cilic did not put a foot wrong as he crushed Russia`s world number two Daniil Medvedev 6-2 6-3 6-2 in a lopsided contest on Monday to return to the French Open quarter-finals after a gap of four years. The 2014 U.S. Open champion, seeded 20th, dominated proceedings from the start and finished off the contest in an hour and 45 minutes to reach the last eight stage on the Parisian clay for the third time in his career. Medvedev came into the match having won all three previous meetings against the 33-year-old Croatian but cut a sorry figure under the lights on Court Philippe Chatrier in their first contest on clay. "It was absolutely a fantastic match from the first point to the last," Cilic said in his interview on court. "I enjoyed the atmosphere, enjoyed the night session here, played incredible tennis, one of the best matches of my career from start to finish." Such was the Croatian`s domination that he did not face a break point and will next meet another Russian in seventh seed Andrey Rublev for a place in the semi-finals. Cilic played aggressively, pinning Medvedev behind the baseline and advancing to the net at every opportunity as the Russian failed to find any zing behind his flat groundstrokes in the cooler night conditions. Also Read: French Open 2022: Rafael Nadal beats Felix Auger-Aliassime in thriller to set up Novak Djokovic date Unable to find a solution to Cilic`s pinpoint winners, Medvedev kept shaking his head and also poured out his frustration at the chair umpire over what he felt was very little time to rest during changeovers. Medvedev`s form on the night was more reminiscent of his four consecutive first-round exits at Roland Garros before he made the quarter-finals last year. Cilic won four consecutive games from 2-2 to bag the opening set in 31 minutes and another break in the sixth game was enough for him to take the second set. Australian Open finalist Medvedev, who won the 2021 U.S. Open, then took a lengthy toilet break but served a double fault on his first point after returning to court. Also Read: French Open - Teenager Holger Rune shows last year's finalist Stefanos Tsitsipas the exit door Another double fault in that opening game led to Medvedev getting broken. The 26-year-old`s problems with double faults and unforced errors continued as Cilic broke him again to jump into a 4-0 third-set lead. There was no way back for Medvedev, who briefly rose to world number one earlier this year, and Cilic converted his second match point when the Russian found the net with a backhand return. "When I`m playing my best tennis, everything is working out, from the serve, return, movement. These last 10-15 days were great for me - great training, great matches, very consistent tennis," Cilic added. "Against guys like Daniil you have to be able to sustain that high level throughout the match and if you give him a chance, he`s going to be back. So I was really focused to keep going and definitely extremely pleased with that."

French Open 2022: Marin Cilic knocks out Russian second seed Daniil Medvedev to set up Rublev clash

Unseeded Italian Martina Trevisan maintained her impressive form as she surged into the French Open semi-finals with a 6-2 6-7(3) 6-3 defeat of Canadian teenager Leylah Fernandez on Tuesday. Trevisan, who will face American Coco Gauff in the last four, had all the answers as she dominated most of the match against a below-par Fernandez who struggled to repeat the form that took her to last year`s U.S. Open final. 
The world number 59 could have won in straight sets but wavered when serving for the match at 5-4 in the second as fellow left-hander Fernandez dug deep to stay in the contest.

Fernandez comfortably claimed the tiebreak to become the first player to take a set off Trevisan at Roland Garros this year, but it was to prove only a brief respite. Trevisan raced into a 3-0 lead in the deciding set and won a fiercely-contested fourth game to earn a double break.

Seventeenth seed Fernandez, who was treated for a foot injury in the first set, was never going to go away quietly though and broke serve twice herself to claw back to 3-5. The nerves were obvious as Trevisan again served for the match but this time she would not be denied as she secured the win with an angled crosscourt forehand.

"I felt a bit nervous on the match point (in the second set) but it was normal to feel that emotion because this was only my second Grand Slam quarter-final," the 28-year-old Italian, who won her first WTA title in Rabat this month, said. "I came here with a lot of energy and to put all my emotion on the court."

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CLAYCOURT EXPERTISE 
Trevisan displayed her claycourt expertise two years ago in Paris when she lost to eventual champion Iga Swiatek in the quarter-finals. Now she has gone further and will be confident against another teenager, 18th seed Gauff, in the semis. She beat Gauff during her 2020 run to the quarters.

"I like the fight. I like the adrenaline. I like the moment before I get in the court," added Trevisan. She is bidding to emulate compatriot Francesca Schiavone, who won the title in 2010, and the way she is playing suggests she will take some stopping in that quest. Trevisan, surprisingly making only her third main draw appearance in Paris, broke serve in the opening game.

Fernandez winced in the fifth game and needed treatment on her left foot but after resuming, slipped 5-2 down as Trevisan fired a forehand winner down the line. The 19-year-old Canadian earned a break at the start of the second set but Trevisan re-established control and broke twice to hold a 5-4 lead with her serve to come.

Fernandez showed great calmness, however, to take the match into a tiebreak which she claimed with ease. 
She could have no complaints, however, as Trevisan seized her opportunity in the decider and held her nerve for her 10th successive victory.

Unseeded Italian Martina Trevisan maintained her impressive form as she surged into the French Open semi-finals with a 6-2 6-7(3) 6-3 defeat of Canadian teenager Leylah Fernandez on Tuesday.

Unseeded Italian Martina Trevisan maintained her impressive form as she surged into the French Open semi-finals with a 6-2 6-7(3) 6-3 defeat of Canadian teenager Leylah Fernandez on Tuesday. Trevisan, who will face American Coco Gauff in the last four, had all the answers as she dominated most of the match against a below-par Fernandez who struggled to repeat the form that took her to last year`s U.S. Open final. The world number 59 could have won in straight sets but wavered when serving for the match at 5-4 in the second as fellow left-hander Fernandez dug deep to stay in the contest. Fernandez comfortably claimed the tiebreak to become the first player to take a set off Trevisan at Roland Garros this year, but it was to prove only a brief respite. Trevisan raced into a 3-0 lead in the deciding set and won a fiercely-contested fourth game to earn a double break. Seventeenth seed Fernandez, who was treated for a foot injury in the first set, was never going to go away quietly though and broke serve twice herself to claw back to 3-5. The nerves were obvious as Trevisan again served for the match but this time she would not be denied as she secured the win with an angled crosscourt forehand. "I felt a bit nervous on the match point (in the second set) but it was normal to feel that emotion because this was only my second Grand Slam quarter-final," the 28-year-old Italian, who won her first WTA title in Rabat this month, said. "I came here with a lot of energy and to put all my emotion on the court." ALSO READ | Rafael Nadal vs Novak Djokovic, Live streaming: When and where to watch French Open's high-voltage QF match? CLAYCOURT EXPERTISE Trevisan displayed her claycourt expertise two years ago in Paris when she lost to eventual champion Iga Swiatek in the quarter-finals. Now she has gone further and will be confident against another teenager, 18th seed Gauff, in the semis. She beat Gauff during her 2020 run to the quarters. "I like the fight. I like the adrenaline. I like the moment before I get in the court," added Trevisan. She is bidding to emulate compatriot Francesca Schiavone, who won the title in 2010, and the way she is playing suggests she will take some stopping in that quest. Trevisan, surprisingly making only her third main draw appearance in Paris, broke serve in the opening game. Fernandez winced in the fifth game and needed treatment on her left foot but after resuming, slipped 5-2 down as Trevisan fired a forehand winner down the line. The 19-year-old Canadian earned a break at the start of the second set but Trevisan re-established control and broke twice to hold a 5-4 lead with her serve to come. Fernandez showed great calmness, however, to take the match into a tiebreak which she claimed with ease. She could have no complaints, however, as Trevisan seized her opportunity in the decider and held her nerve for her 10th successive victory.

French Open: Italy's Martina Trevisan beats Leylah Fernandez to reach semi-finals

The action continues in the 2022 French Open as World number one Novak Djokovic is set to lock horns with Spaniard Rafael Nadal in the high-voltage quarter-final on Wednesday (June 01). Both the players have been in top form in this year's edition and will give a tough fight to each other to proceed to the semi-finals.&nbsp;

Talking about Djokovic, the Serbian hasn't even dropped a set in his journey so far at the Roland Garros and looks determined to retain the French Open title after missing&nbsp;out on playing the Australian Open, early this year, due to the Covid-19 vaccination row. On the other hand, Nadal had won the title for four years in a row before losing the semi-finals of the 2021 edition to Djokovic -- only his third defeat on clay court since his debut. Hence, revenge will be on his mind when he takes on his arch-rival.&nbsp;

Here's the live streaming details of the French Open 2022 quarter-final encounter between Nadal and Djokovic

Where is the Novak Djokovic vs Rafael Nadal French Open quarter-final taking place?

The Djokovic vs&nbsp;Nadal 2022 French Open quarter-final will take place at&nbsp;the Stade Roland Garros's Court Philip Chatrier.

When will the&nbsp;Djokovic vs&nbsp;Nadal French Open quarter-final kick-off?

The high-voltage Djokovic vs&nbsp;Nadal 2022 French Open quarter-final will commence at 12:15 am IST on Wednesday (June 01).

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Which TV channels will broadcast the Novak Djokovic vs Rafael Nadal French Open quarter-final?

The&nbsp;Djokovic vs&nbsp;Nadal French Open quarter-final showdown will be broadcast on Sony Sports Network.&nbsp;

How to watch the live streaming of the Novak Djokovic vs Rafael Nadal French Open quarter-final?

The live streaming of the&nbsp;Djokovic vs&nbsp;Nadal 2022 French Open quarter-final will be available on Sony Liv..

The action continues in the 2022 French Open as World number one Novak Djokovic is set to lock horns with Spaniard Rafael Nadal in the high-voltage quarter-final on Wednesday (June 01).

The action continues in the 2022 French Open as World number one Novak Djokovic is set to lock horns with Spaniard Rafael Nadal in the high-voltage quarter-final on Wednesday (June 01). Both the players have been in top form in this year's edition and will give a tough fight to each other to proceed to the semi-finals. Talking about Djokovic, the Serbian hasn't even dropped a set in his journey so far at the Roland Garros and looks determined to retain the French Open title after missing out on playing the Australian Open, early this year, due to the Covid-19 vaccination row. On the other hand, Nadal had won the title for four years in a row before losing the semi-finals of the 2021 edition to Djokovic -- only his third defeat on clay court since his debut. Hence, revenge will be on his mind when he takes on his arch-rival. Here's the live streaming details of the French Open 2022 quarter-final encounter between Nadal and Djokovic Where is the Novak Djokovic vs Rafael Nadal French Open quarter-final taking place? The Djokovic vs Nadal 2022 French Open quarter-final will take place at the Stade Roland Garros's Court Philip Chatrier. When will the Djokovic vs Nadal French Open quarter-final kick-off? The high-voltage Djokovic vs Nadal 2022 French Open quarter-final will commence at 12:15 am IST on Wednesday (June 01). ALSO READ | 'Angry' Andy Murray likens Texas school shooting survivor's experience to his own Which TV channels will broadcast the Novak Djokovic vs Rafael Nadal French Open quarter-final? The Djokovic vs Nadal French Open quarter-final showdown will be broadcast on Sony Sports Network. How to watch the live streaming of the Novak Djokovic vs Rafael Nadal French Open quarter-final? The live streaming of the Djokovic vs Nadal 2022 French Open quarter-final will be available on Sony Liv..

Rafael Nadal vs Novak Djokovic, Live streaming: When and where to watch French Open's high-voltage QF match?

Britain`s two-time Wimbledon champion Andy Murray said the mass shooting in Uvalde, Texas made him "angry", adding that a survivor`s account of the incident was similar to his own experience in the 1996 Dunblane massacre in Scotland.

An 18-year-old gunman armed with a semi-automatic rifle stormed an elementary school in Texas last week, killing 19 children and two teachers.

The attack, coming 10 days after a shooting in Buffalo, New York that left 10 people dead, has intensified the long-standing national debate over U.S. gun laws.

"It`s unbelievably upsetting and it makes you angry. I think there`s been over 200 mass shootings in America this year and nothing changes," Murray said. "I can`t understand that ...

"My feeling is that surely at some stage you do something different. You can`t keep approaching the problem by buying more guns and having more guns in the country. I don`t see how that solves it.

"But I could be wrong. Let`s maybe try something different and see if you get a different outcome."

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Murray grew up in Dunblane and was a student at the town`s local elementary school when a gunman killed 16 pupils and a teacher before killing himself. It is the deadliest mass shooting in Britain`s modern history.

"I heard something on the radio the other day and it was a child from that school," Murray told the BBC. "I experienced a similar thing when I was at Dunblane, a teacher coming out and waving all of the children under tables and telling them to go and hide.

"And it was a kid telling exactly the same story about how she survived it.

"They were saying that they go through these drills, as young children ... How? How is that normal that children should be having to go through drills, in case someone comes into a school with a gun?"

Britain`s two-time Wimbledon champion Andy Murray said the mass shooting in Uvalde, Texas made him "angry", adding that a survivor`s account of the incident was similar to his own experience in the 1996 Dunblane massacre in Scotland.

Britain`s two-time Wimbledon champion Andy Murray said the mass shooting in Uvalde, Texas made him "angry", adding that a survivor`s account of the incident was similar to his own experience in the 1996 Dunblane massacre in Scotland. An 18-year-old gunman armed with a semi-automatic rifle stormed an elementary school in Texas last week, killing 19 children and two teachers. The attack, coming 10 days after a shooting in Buffalo, New York that left 10 people dead, has intensified the long-standing national debate over U.S. gun laws. "It`s unbelievably upsetting and it makes you angry. I think there`s been over 200 mass shootings in America this year and nothing changes," Murray said. "I can`t understand that ... "My feeling is that surely at some stage you do something different. You can`t keep approaching the problem by buying more guns and having more guns in the country. I don`t see how that solves it. "But I could be wrong. Let`s maybe try something different and see if you get a different outcome." Also Read: 'Wish I can be a man': China's Zheng Qinwen dejected after menstrual cramps derail her French Open campaign Murray grew up in Dunblane and was a student at the town`s local elementary school when a gunman killed 16 pupils and a teacher before killing himself. It is the deadliest mass shooting in Britain`s modern history. "I heard something on the radio the other day and it was a child from that school," Murray told the BBC. "I experienced a similar thing when I was at Dunblane, a teacher coming out and waving all of the children under tables and telling them to go and hide. "And it was a kid telling exactly the same story about how she survived it. "They were saying that they go through these drills, as young children ... How? How is that normal that children should be having to go through drills, in case someone comes into a school with a gun?"

'Angry' Andy Murray likens Texas school shooting survivor's experience to his own

Rafa Nadal overcame a sluggish start and a stiff challenge from Canadian ninth seed Felix Auger-Aliassime with an enthralling 3-6 6-3 6-2 3-6 6-3 win on Sunday to set up a mouth-watering quarter-final with world number one Novak Djokovic. This was only the third time in his 112 matches that Nadal was taken to the fifth set at Roland Garros and he ensured he kept his blemish-free record intact, wrapping up the win in four hours and 21 minutes to wild applause from the crowd.

Nadal will hope he can recover in time from the gruelling contest for his next outing, where the reigning champion awaits for their 59th career showdown. The Spaniard, who will turn 36 on Friday, has lifted the Musketeers` Cup a record 13 times but was ousted in the semi-finals last year by Djokovic.

Djokovic completed his victory against Diego Schwartzman on Court Suzanne Lenglen shortly before his long-time rival started his match and the Serb is yet to lose a set in his four rounds.

"We know each other well," Nadal said of Djokovic. "We have a lot of history together. He came here after winning in Rome. For me, it was not an ideal situation to arrive here. But here we are. We are at Roland Garros, it is my favourite place without a doubt.

"The only thing I can tell you, I am going to be focused and try my best. The only thing I can guarantee is that I am going to fight until the end," added the Spaniard who converted only six of his 22 breakpoint chances in the match. 
The clash on Court Philippe Chatrier was the second meeting between Nadal and Auger-Aliassime but the first since Toni Nadal began working with the Canadian in 2021.

`Uncle Toni` was part of Nadal`s team for the majority of his record 21 Grand Slam singles titles, and the buildup to the contest was dominated by talk of the 61-year-old coaching Auger-Aliassime against his nephew.

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Toni Nadal did not sit in the Canadian`s box and chose a neutral seat and he would have been pleased with Auger-Aliassime`s performance during the opening set. The 21-year-old showed immense grit and incredible athleticism to win the opening set, earning applause from Nadal on one point when he jumped to make a backhand overhead volley.

Nadal wasted six breakpoint opportunities in the first set but cut down on his errors in the second and made his chance count in the eighth game to break his opponent and level the contest at 1-1.

Nadal got the early break of serve in the third when Auger-Aliassime missed a couple of overhead volleys and another break in the seventh sealed the set and a 2-1 lead for the left-hander. But the Canadian refused to go away.

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After an early trade of service breaks, Auger-Aliassime broke Nadal`s delivery a second time to take the contest to a deciding fifth set. The last time Nadal played a five-setter at Roland Garros was in the 2013 semi-final when he beat Djokovic.

The Spaniard still had enough left in his tank to clinch the deciding break against Auger-Aliassime in the eighth game and then held his serve, sealing the contest on his first match point with a winner. "It was a very important victory for me without doubt," Nadal said.

Rafa Nadal overcame a sluggish start and a stiff challenge from Canadian ninth seed Felix Auger-Aliassime with an enthralling 3-6 6-3 6-2 3-6 6-3 win on Sunday to set up a mouth-watering quarter-final with world number one Novak Djokovic.

Rafa Nadal overcame a sluggish start and a stiff challenge from Canadian ninth seed Felix Auger-Aliassime with an enthralling 3-6 6-3 6-2 3-6 6-3 win on Sunday to set up a mouth-watering quarter-final with world number one Novak Djokovic. This was only the third time in his 112 matches that Nadal was taken to the fifth set at Roland Garros and he ensured he kept his blemish-free record intact, wrapping up the win in four hours and 21 minutes to wild applause from the crowd. Nadal will hope he can recover in time from the gruelling contest for his next outing, where the reigning champion awaits for their 59th career showdown. The Spaniard, who will turn 36 on Friday, has lifted the Musketeers` Cup a record 13 times but was ousted in the semi-finals last year by Djokovic. Djokovic completed his victory against Diego Schwartzman on Court Suzanne Lenglen shortly before his long-time rival started his match and the Serb is yet to lose a set in his four rounds. "We know each other well," Nadal said of Djokovic. "We have a lot of history together. He came here after winning in Rome. For me, it was not an ideal situation to arrive here. But here we are. We are at Roland Garros, it is my favourite place without a doubt. "The only thing I can tell you, I am going to be focused and try my best. The only thing I can guarantee is that I am going to fight until the end," added the Spaniard who converted only six of his 22 breakpoint chances in the match. The clash on Court Philippe Chatrier was the second meeting between Nadal and Auger-Aliassime but the first since Toni Nadal began working with the Canadian in 2021. `Uncle Toni` was part of Nadal`s team for the majority of his record 21 Grand Slam singles titles, and the buildup to the contest was dominated by talk of the 61-year-old coaching Auger-Aliassime against his nephew. Also Read: Daniil Medvedev pushing for return to top of world rankings at French Open 2022 Toni Nadal did not sit in the Canadian`s box and chose a neutral seat and he would have been pleased with Auger-Aliassime`s performance during the opening set. The 21-year-old showed immense grit and incredible athleticism to win the opening set, earning applause from Nadal on one point when he jumped to make a backhand overhead volley. Nadal wasted six breakpoint opportunities in the first set but cut down on his errors in the second and made his chance count in the eighth game to break his opponent and level the contest at 1-1. Nadal got the early break of serve in the third when Auger-Aliassime missed a couple of overhead volleys and another break in the seventh sealed the set and a 2-1 lead for the left-hander. But the Canadian refused to go away. Also Read: Novak Djokovic beats Diego Schwartzman to enters QFs, Coco Gauff ousts Elise Mertens After an early trade of service breaks, Auger-Aliassime broke Nadal`s delivery a second time to take the contest to a deciding fifth set. The last time Nadal played a five-setter at Roland Garros was in the 2013 semi-final when he beat Djokovic. The Spaniard still had enough left in his tank to clinch the deciding break against Auger-Aliassime in the eighth game and then held his serve, sealing the contest on his first match point with a winner. "It was a very important victory for me without doubt," Nadal said.

French Open 2022: Rafael Nadal beats Felix Auger-Aliassime in thriller to set up Novak Djokovic date

Carlos Alcaraz pummelled Karen Khachanov into submission in a 6-1 6-4 6-4 victory on Sunday to reach the French Open quarter-finals and stretch his winning run to 14 matches. The 19-year-old, who has taken the tennis world by storm this year, became the youngest male player in 29 years to reach two Grand Slam quarter-finals after also making the U.S. Open last eight.

"It has been a great match from my side. I played really well from the beginning until the end of the match," he said.

"I knew I had to be really focused from the beginning. I expected the level that I played. I started really well and I kept the level for the whole match. I am very happy with it."

He needed just 29 minutes to storm through the first set with his special mix of raw power, punishing forehands and deft drop shots that made his 26-year-old opponent look old. Khachanov, the world number 25 and a quarter-finalist in Paris in 2019, managed to hold serve early in the second set but the Spaniard broke him at 3-3, and never looked back.

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The pair traded breaks midway through the third set on a chilly and overcast evening in the French capital but it was Alcaraz who pulled ahead with yet another break after an eye-popping `tweener` lob over the tall Russian.

He wobbled a bit at the end, wasting five match points on Khachanov`s serve, but that only delayed the inevitable by one game, as he sealed victory on his serve minutes later.

World number six Alcaraz, who now has a 19-1 win-loss record on clay this season after winning back-to-back titles in Barcelona and Madrid in April and May, will next face third seed Alexander Zverev, who beat qualifier Bernabe Zapata Miralles in straight sets.

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"Sasha (Zverev) is playing a great game. He is real aggressive and it will be a tough match," Alcaraz said. "Best of five against him will be tough. He has beaten great players in Grand Slams."

"I like to play tough, close matches so it is going to be a good match."

Should the stars align for Alcaraz, he could eventually take on either world number one and defending champion Novak Djokovic or 13-time Roland Garros winner Rafael Nadal in the last four.

Carlos Alcaraz pummelled Karen Khachanov into submission in a 6-1 6-4 6-4 victory on Sunday to reach the French Open quarter-finals and stretch his winning run to 14 matches.

Carlos Alcaraz pummelled Karen Khachanov into submission in a 6-1 6-4 6-4 victory on Sunday to reach the French Open quarter-finals and stretch his winning run to 14 matches. The 19-year-old, who has taken the tennis world by storm this year, became the youngest male player in 29 years to reach two Grand Slam quarter-finals after also making the U.S. Open last eight. "It has been a great match from my side. I played really well from the beginning until the end of the match," he said. "I knew I had to be really focused from the beginning. I expected the level that I played. I started really well and I kept the level for the whole match. I am very happy with it." He needed just 29 minutes to storm through the first set with his special mix of raw power, punishing forehands and deft drop shots that made his 26-year-old opponent look old. Khachanov, the world number 25 and a quarter-finalist in Paris in 2019, managed to hold serve early in the second set but the Spaniard broke him at 3-3, and never looked back. Also Read: French Open 2022 - Rafael Nadal beats Felix Auger-Aliassime in thriller to set up Novak Djokovic date The pair traded breaks midway through the third set on a chilly and overcast evening in the French capital but it was Alcaraz who pulled ahead with yet another break after an eye-popping `tweener` lob over the tall Russian. He wobbled a bit at the end, wasting five match points on Khachanov`s serve, but that only delayed the inevitable by one game, as he sealed victory on his serve minutes later. World number six Alcaraz, who now has a 19-1 win-loss record on clay this season after winning back-to-back titles in Barcelona and Madrid in April and May, will next face third seed Alexander Zverev, who beat qualifier Bernabe Zapata Miralles in straight sets. Also Read: Novak Djokovic beats Diego Schwartzman to enter French Open QFs, Coco Gauff ousts Elise Mertens "Sasha (Zverev) is playing a great game. He is real aggressive and it will be a tough match," Alcaraz said. "Best of five against him will be tough. He has beaten great players in Grand Slams." "I like to play tough, close matches so it is going to be a good match." Should the stars align for Alcaraz, he could eventually take on either world number one and defending champion Novak Djokovic or 13-time Roland Garros winner Rafael Nadal in the last four.

French Open 2022: Teenage sensation Carlos Alcaraz crushes Karen Khachanov to reach quarter-finals

Daniil Medvedev, determined not to be remembered for his short-lived stay at world number one, said that he is targeting a return to the top with a stellar showing at the French Open.

Medvedev, ranked second, claimed top spot in late February but was overtaken by Novak Djokovic just two weeks later. The Russian can ascend the summit once again if he reaches the final at Roland Garros.

"I for sure want to be there more than two weeks. I want to try to do it," Medvedev said after his straight-sets win over Miomir Kecmanovic on Saturday to reach the fourth round in Paris.

"It's not something that pressures me, because I'm really happy I managed to do it. I remember Indian Wells. I lost, didn't like my match against Gael (Monfils). That's when I knew I was going to lose the No. 1 spot."

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The 26-year-old joked that he looked up the players who had spent the shortest time at number one and realised he was in fine company.

"I went on Internet and looked, just like this on Google, who were the shortest like No. 1 players in the world, and the first I saw Pat Rafter being there for one week, and he's an absolute legend, and Carlos Moya was somewhere there," Medvedev said.

"It's something nobody can take away from me. Not that many players could take it while they play tennis. It's a great motivation to try to come back there."

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Medvedev, who faces Marin Cilic on Monday, will miss Wimbledon after Russian and Belarusian players were banned from the grasscourt major over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, for which Belarus has been a key staging area.

Daniil Medvedev, determined not to be remembered for his short-lived stay at world number one, said that he is targeting a return to the top with a stellar showing at the French Open.

Daniil Medvedev, determined not to be remembered for his short-lived stay at world number one, said that he is targeting a return to the top with a stellar showing at the French Open. Medvedev, ranked second, claimed top spot in late February but was overtaken by Novak Djokovic just two weeks later. The Russian can ascend the summit once again if he reaches the final at Roland Garros. "I for sure want to be there more than two weeks. I want to try to do it," Medvedev said after his straight-sets win over Miomir Kecmanovic on Saturday to reach the fourth round in Paris. "It's not something that pressures me, because I'm really happy I managed to do it. I remember Indian Wells. I lost, didn't like my match against Gael (Monfils). That's when I knew I was going to lose the No. 1 spot." Also Read: French Open: Second seed Medvedev trounces Kecmanovic in straight sets for fourth round spot The 26-year-old joked that he looked up the players who had spent the shortest time at number one and realised he was in fine company. "I went on Internet and looked, just like this on Google, who were the shortest like No. 1 players in the world, and the first I saw Pat Rafter being there for one week, and he's an absolute legend, and Carlos Moya was somewhere there," Medvedev said. "It's something nobody can take away from me. Not that many players could take it while they play tennis. It's a great motivation to try to come back there." Also Read: Rising star Carlos Alcaraz beats Sebastian Korda to reach last 16 in French Open 2022 Medvedev, who faces Marin Cilic on Monday, will miss Wimbledon after Russian and Belarusian players were banned from the grasscourt major over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, for which Belarus has been a key staging area.

Daniil Medvedev pushing for return to top of world rankings at French Open 2022

Carlos Alcaraz`s meteoric rise continued on Friday when the Spanish prodigy produced yet another awe-inspiring performance to outplay American Sebastian Korda 6-4 6-4 6-2 and reach the last 16 of the French Open for the first time. Facing the only man to beat him on clay this year, the sixth-seeded teenager, who saved a match point in the second round, showed his full range on a packed court Philippe Chatrier - mixing powerful forehands with gravity-defying drop shots.

The 27th-seeded Korda threw everything at his opponent, only for the ball to come back quicker and with more power and the American faded in the third after a high-octane fight in the first two sets.

Alcaraz, who now has an 18-1 win-loss record on the red dirt this season after winning titles in Barcelona and Madrid, will next face 21st-seeded Russian Karen Khachanov before a potential quarter-final clash against third seed Alexander Zverev.

"It`s amazing to play in front of such a great crowd in this atmosphere on a night session," the 19-year-old Alcaraz, who stunned the crowd with some serve and volleying, said.

"I`m having fun, I love playing tennis on such great courts, I love playing in France. Serve and volley is a weapon that I have so I use it."

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Should the stars align for Alcaraz, he could eventually take on either world number one and defending champion Novak Djokovic or 13-time Roland Garros winner Rafael Nadal in the last four.

"If I am winning, I just play against one of them. I think I`m ready. It`s different to play against them," he said.

"I mean in the Masters 1000 or another tournament it`s best-of-three and in Grand Slam it`s best-of-five, but I would say I`m ready."

Alcaraz got off to a brilliant start and had a couple of double break points at 3-1, only for Korda to stave them off with a service winner and an ace.

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But the Spaniard was untroubled on his service games and he wrapped up the opening set having lost only six points on serve. Korda found his range early in the second set and set up two break points but Alcaraz held firm and showed his ability to find the best shot at the best moment - including a sublime lob while on the back foot to go 30-0 up in the fifth game.

He won that game with a superb forehand winner down the line. Korda saved set points at 5-3 but yielded under pressure in the 10th game, returning long to hand Alcaraz a two-set lead.

It quickly went downhill from there for Korda, who dropped serve again with a volley into the net in the seventh game and capitulated on the first match point when Alcaraz unleashed a backhand winner down the line.

Carlos Alcaraz`s meteoric rise continued on Friday when the Spanish prodigy produced yet another awe-inspiring performance to outplay American Sebastian Korda 6-4 6-4 6-2 and reach the last 16 of the French Open for the first time.

Carlos Alcaraz`s meteoric rise continued on Friday when the Spanish prodigy produced yet another awe-inspiring performance to outplay American Sebastian Korda 6-4 6-4 6-2 and reach the last 16 of the French Open for the first time. Facing the only man to beat him on clay this year, the sixth-seeded teenager, who saved a match point in the second round, showed his full range on a packed court Philippe Chatrier - mixing powerful forehands with gravity-defying drop shots. The 27th-seeded Korda threw everything at his opponent, only for the ball to come back quicker and with more power and the American faded in the third after a high-octane fight in the first two sets. Alcaraz, who now has an 18-1 win-loss record on the red dirt this season after winning titles in Barcelona and Madrid, will next face 21st-seeded Russian Karen Khachanov before a potential quarter-final clash against third seed Alexander Zverev. "It`s amazing to play in front of such a great crowd in this atmosphere on a night session," the 19-year-old Alcaraz, who stunned the crowd with some serve and volleying, said. "I`m having fun, I love playing tennis on such great courts, I love playing in France. Serve and volley is a weapon that I have so I use it." Also Read: French Open - Unstoppable world No. 1 Iga Swiatek enters R3; Aryna Sabalenka defeats Madison Brengle Should the stars align for Alcaraz, he could eventually take on either world number one and defending champion Novak Djokovic or 13-time Roland Garros winner Rafael Nadal in the last four. "If I am winning, I just play against one of them. I think I`m ready. It`s different to play against them," he said. "I mean in the Masters 1000 or another tournament it`s best-of-three and in Grand Slam it`s best-of-five, but I would say I`m ready." Alcaraz got off to a brilliant start and had a couple of double break points at 3-1, only for Korda to stave them off with a service winner and an ace. Also Read: French Open: Spaniard Rafael Nadal stays on course for possible face-off with Novak Djokovic in quarters But the Spaniard was untroubled on his service games and he wrapped up the opening set having lost only six points on serve. Korda found his range early in the second set and set up two break points but Alcaraz held firm and showed his ability to find the best shot at the best moment - including a sublime lob while on the back foot to go 30-0 up in the fifth game. He won that game with a superb forehand winner down the line. Korda saved set points at 5-3 but yielded under pressure in the 10th game, returning long to hand Alcaraz a two-set lead. It quickly went downhill from there for Korda, who dropped serve again with a volley into the net in the seventh game and capitulated on the first match point when Alcaraz unleashed a backhand winner down the line.

French Open 2022: Rising star Carlos Alcaraz beats Sebastian Korda to reach last 16 in Paris

Sixth seed Carlos Alcaraz clawed back from the brink of a shock second-round defeat at the French Open on Wednesday to outlast fellow Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas in a five-set marathon that fully tested his title credentials. The 19-year-old, who has taken the tennis world by storm this year, survived a match point in the fourth set before working his way back to win 6-1 6-7(7) 5-7 7-6(2) 6-4 in a match lasting over four hours and a half hours.

Alcaraz is now unbeaten for 12 straight matches after bagging back-to-back titles in Barcelona and Madrid going into Roland Garros. "I feel tired but I mean it was a great battle against a great player," he said. "I knew it would be a top match. We fought until the last point. I am so happy with the performance today. 
"I had my chances if I saved that match point. The tiebreak I was aggressive. In the fifth set I was fresh. I was like the beginning of the match. That match point changed everything."

Alcaraz, who has enjoyed a meteoric rise in the past 12 months, had looked unflustered by the blustery conditions on the Simonne Mathieu Court with a near flawless performance in the first set. The 34-year-old Ramos-Vinolas, a clay court specialist and quarter-finalist in Paris six years ago, had no response to Alcaraz`s explosive power and accuracy.

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The teenager`s serve proved equally devastating as he gave away just three points in his service games in the first set. His veteran opponent, however, was far from done, putting up a stronger fight as unforced errors started creeping into Alcaraz`s game, including a forehand that sailed wide on Ramos-Vinolas`s set point.

With his opponent now clearly unsettled, having lost his earlier momentum and composure, Ramos-Vinolas moved Alcaraz around and broke him to go 2-1 up in the third set. Alcaraz was paying the price for his unforced errors and his 44th, a simple volley into the net, handed Ramos-Vinolas a break to go 6-5 up and he held serve to lead 2-1.

Facing the prospect of a shock exit, Alcaraz survived a match point at 5-4 before forcing a fifth set. 
He again had to work his way back from 0-3 to level before finishing Ramos-Vinolas off with an ace on his first match point.

Sixth seed Carlos Alcaraz clawed back from the brink of a shock second-round defeat at the French Open on Wednesday to outlast fellow Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas in a five-set marathon that fully tested his title credentials.

Sixth seed Carlos Alcaraz clawed back from the brink of a shock second-round defeat at the French Open on Wednesday to outlast fellow Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas in a five-set marathon that fully tested his title credentials. The 19-year-old, who has taken the tennis world by storm this year, survived a match point in the fourth set before working his way back to win 6-1 6-7(7) 5-7 7-6(2) 6-4 in a match lasting over four hours and a half hours. Alcaraz is now unbeaten for 12 straight matches after bagging back-to-back titles in Barcelona and Madrid going into Roland Garros. "I feel tired but I mean it was a great battle against a great player," he said. "I knew it would be a top match. We fought until the last point. I am so happy with the performance today. "I had my chances if I saved that match point. The tiebreak I was aggressive. In the fifth set I was fresh. I was like the beginning of the match. That match point changed everything." Alcaraz, who has enjoyed a meteoric rise in the past 12 months, had looked unflustered by the blustery conditions on the Simonne Mathieu Court with a near flawless performance in the first set. The 34-year-old Ramos-Vinolas, a clay court specialist and quarter-finalist in Paris six years ago, had no response to Alcaraz`s explosive power and accuracy. ALSO READ | Rafael Nadal registers 300th Grand Slam match win, enters French Open’s third round The teenager`s serve proved equally devastating as he gave away just three points in his service games in the first set. His veteran opponent, however, was far from done, putting up a stronger fight as unforced errors started creeping into Alcaraz`s game, including a forehand that sailed wide on Ramos-Vinolas`s set point. With his opponent now clearly unsettled, having lost his earlier momentum and composure, Ramos-Vinolas moved Alcaraz around and broke him to go 2-1 up in the third set. Alcaraz was paying the price for his unforced errors and his 44th, a simple volley into the net, handed Ramos-Vinolas a break to go 6-5 up and he held serve to lead 2-1. Facing the prospect of a shock exit, Alcaraz survived a match point at 5-4 before forcing a fifth set. He again had to work his way back from 0-3 to level before finishing Ramos-Vinolas off with an ace on his first match point.

Carlos Alcaraz survives match point to beat fellow Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas in five-set thriller

World number one Novak Djokovic completed a solid 6-2 6-3 7-6(4) victory over Slovakia`s Alex Molcan in the second round of the French Open on Wednesday to keep his title defence and quest for a record-equalling 21st Grand Slam on track. With Djokovic unable to defend his Australian Open title due to his refusal to be vaccinated against COVID-19, Spaniard Rafa Nadal broke a three-way tie for the most Grand Slam titles with the Serb and Roger Federer by winning the Melbourne Park major at the start of the year.

Yet a successful rerun of his 2021 Roland Garros campaign, when he beat 13-time French Open winner Nadal in the semi-finals, will lift Djokovic alongside his great rival. On a blustery day on Court Suzanne Lenglen, the 35-year-old Djokovic cruised through the opening two sets, breaking Molcan`s serve three times without giving the Slovakian a single opportunity on his own delivery.

The 24-year-old Molcan, trained by Djokovic`s former long-time coach Marian Vajda, was ranked 255th when he went down in straight sets to Djokovic in their only previous meeting in Belgrade last May but since then the left-hander has climbed to a career-high ranking of 38th.

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With nothing to lose, Molcan opened up his shoulders in the third set and with some aggressive all-court hitting managed to cancel out Djokovic`s early advantage to force a tiebreak.

But Djokovic then managed to go up a gear and converted his second matchpoint when the left-hander found the net with a return.

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"It was a difficult match with a lot of winds, changing direction," he said on court. "You have to be fully focused.

"I have a lot of respect for Alex. He`s got a game that`s made for this surface. I hope it`s the last time I play against Marian Vajda as coach of my opponent."

The top seed will next meet Slovenia`s former world number 43 Aljaz Bedene for a place in the fourth round.

World number one Novak Djokovic completed a solid 6-2 6-3 7-6(4) victory over Slovakia`s Alex Molcan in the second round of the French Open on Wednesday to keep his title defence and quest for a record-equalling 21st Grand Slam on track.

World number one Novak Djokovic completed a solid 6-2 6-3 7-6(4) victory over Slovakia`s Alex Molcan in the second round of the French Open on Wednesday to keep his title defence and quest for a record-equalling 21st Grand Slam on track. With Djokovic unable to defend his Australian Open title due to his refusal to be vaccinated against COVID-19, Spaniard Rafa Nadal broke a three-way tie for the most Grand Slam titles with the Serb and Roger Federer by winning the Melbourne Park major at the start of the year. Yet a successful rerun of his 2021 Roland Garros campaign, when he beat 13-time French Open winner Nadal in the semi-finals, will lift Djokovic alongside his great rival. On a blustery day on Court Suzanne Lenglen, the 35-year-old Djokovic cruised through the opening two sets, breaking Molcan`s serve three times without giving the Slovakian a single opportunity on his own delivery. The 24-year-old Molcan, trained by Djokovic`s former long-time coach Marian Vajda, was ranked 255th when he went down in straight sets to Djokovic in their only previous meeting in Belgrade last May but since then the left-hander has climbed to a career-high ranking of 38th. Also Read: Emma Raducanu's French Open campaign cut-short after loss to Aliaksandra Sasnovich With nothing to lose, Molcan opened up his shoulders in the third set and with some aggressive all-court hitting managed to cancel out Djokovic`s early advantage to force a tiebreak. But Djokovic then managed to go up a gear and converted his second matchpoint when the left-hander found the net with a return. Also Read: French Open 2022 - Road opens up for Iga Swiatek as Karolina Muchova defeats Maria Sakkari in 2nd round "It was a difficult match with a lot of winds, changing direction," he said on court. "You have to be fully focused. "I have a lot of respect for Alex. He`s got a game that`s made for this surface. I hope it`s the last time I play against Marian Vajda as coach of my opponent." The top seed will next meet Slovenia`s former world number 43 Aljaz Bedene for a place in the fourth round.

Novak Djokovic keeps French Open title defence on track with win over Alex Molcan in 2nd round

Another obstacle on top seed Iga Swiatek`s path to a second French Open title was removed on Wednesday as fourth seed Maria Sakkari was knocked out 7-6(5) 7-6(4) by Czech Karolina Muchova in the second round at Roland Garros. Sakkari, a semi-finalist here last year, never found her groove on Court Suzanne Lenglen as her opponent, who reached the last four at the Australian Open last year, set up a meeting with American Amanda Anisimova.

The Greek is the latest casualty among the top seeds after Tunisia`s Ons Jabeur (6) and defending champion Barbora Krejcikova (2) were knocked out in the first round.

World number one and red hot favourite Swiatek and third seed Paula Badosa are the only two players from the top six left in the women`s draw.

"It`s very special. It was a big fight it was a big test for me, a challenge and I`m happy I won in two sets," said Muchova, whose last 12 months have been hampered by injuries.

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Sakkari, who had showed weaknesses in the first round against French hope Clara Burel, was outplayed initially and fell 5-2 down. Facing two set points at 40-15, she briefly found her range and her opponent got tight, allowing the Greek to reduce the arrears.

Serving for the set, Muchova then double-faulted twice as things went back on serve. Muchova wasted two more set points at 6-5 but she finally bagged the opener with a backhand winner in a tight tiebreak.

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Sakkari dug deep in the second set to recover a break of serve for 4-4 and then saved break points with some powerful groundstrokes as the match headed into a second tiebreak.

Muchova opened a 3-0 lead in the tiebreak but got tight again, allowing her opponent to level for 4-4. 
She regained her poise, however, and wrapped up the win with a forehand winner.

Another obstacle on top seed Iga Swiatek`s path to a second French Open title was removed on Wednesday as fourth seed Maria Sakkari was knocked out 7-6(5) 7-6(4) by Czech Karolina Muchova in the second round at Roland Garros.

Another obstacle on top seed Iga Swiatek`s path to a second French Open title was removed on Wednesday as fourth seed Maria Sakkari was knocked out 7-6(5) 7-6(4) by Czech Karolina Muchova in the second round at Roland Garros. Sakkari, a semi-finalist here last year, never found her groove on Court Suzanne Lenglen as her opponent, who reached the last four at the Australian Open last year, set up a meeting with American Amanda Anisimova. The Greek is the latest casualty among the top seeds after Tunisia`s Ons Jabeur (6) and defending champion Barbora Krejcikova (2) were knocked out in the first round. World number one and red hot favourite Swiatek and third seed Paula Badosa are the only two players from the top six left in the women`s draw. "It`s very special. It was a big fight it was a big test for me, a challenge and I`m happy I won in two sets," said Muchova, whose last 12 months have been hampered by injuries. Also Read: Emma Raducanu's French Open campaign cut-short after loss to Aliaksandra Sasnovich Sakkari, who had showed weaknesses in the first round against French hope Clara Burel, was outplayed initially and fell 5-2 down. Facing two set points at 40-15, she briefly found her range and her opponent got tight, allowing the Greek to reduce the arrears. Serving for the set, Muchova then double-faulted twice as things went back on serve. Muchova wasted two more set points at 6-5 but she finally bagged the opener with a backhand winner in a tight tiebreak. Also Read: French Open: Jo-Wilfried Tsonga bids tearful farewell to 18-year-long career after first-round exit Sakkari dug deep in the second set to recover a break of serve for 4-4 and then saved break points with some powerful groundstrokes as the match headed into a second tiebreak. Muchova opened a 3-0 lead in the tiebreak but got tight again, allowing her opponent to level for 4-4. She regained her poise, however, and wrapped up the win with a forehand winner.

French Open 2022: Road opens up for Iga Swiatek as Karolina Muchova defeats Maria Sakkari in 2nd round

Rafael Nadal showed no signs of pain as the 13-time French Open champion marched into the second round at Roland Garros with clinical 6-2 6-2 6-2 demolition of Australian Jordan Thompson on Monday. 
 
The Spaniard, who had never arrived in Paris as unprepared as this year after a rib injury and a chronic foot problem hampered the build-up to his beloved Grand Slam tournament, was never bothered on a chilly court Philippe Chatrier. 
 
"It`s incredible for me to play here again on Chatrier. I`m happy with this win. First round is always special," said Nadal. 
 
The 35-year-old, who has a record 21 men`s Grand Slam titles to his name, played down the chances of adding to his tally but his display was reminiscent of those of previous years.

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Nadal broke for 2-1 with a backhand volley winner and his massive forehand helped him quickly move 4-1 up against an overwhelmed opponent. 
 
The fifth seed looked to finish off some points quickly and made several unusual unforced errors, but they were of little consequence as he breezed through the opening set. 
 
Nadal broke serve in the first game of the second set and again in the fifth and seventh as he started to play more neatly, bagging it with a service winner.

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Thompson, who pulled a break back, looked completely worn out by then but managed to hold it together until 2-2, when Nadal broke with a forehand volley and won all the rest of the games.

Rafael Nadal showed no signs of pain as the 13-time French Open champion marched into the second round at Roland Garros with clinical 6-2 6-2 6-2 demolition of Australian Jordan Thompson on Monday.

Rafael Nadal showed no signs of pain as the 13-time French Open champion marched into the second round at Roland Garros with clinical 6-2 6-2 6-2 demolition of Australian Jordan Thompson on Monday. The Spaniard, who had never arrived in Paris as unprepared as this year after a rib injury and a chronic foot problem hampered the build-up to his beloved Grand Slam tournament, was never bothered on a chilly court Philippe Chatrier. "It`s incredible for me to play here again on Chatrier. I`m happy with this win. First round is always special," said Nadal. The 35-year-old, who has a record 21 men`s Grand Slam titles to his name, played down the chances of adding to his tally but his display was reminiscent of those of previous years. Also Read: French Open: Diane Parry knocks out reigning champion Barbora Krejcikova in first round Nadal broke for 2-1 with a backhand volley winner and his massive forehand helped him quickly move 4-1 up against an overwhelmed opponent. The fifth seed looked to finish off some points quickly and made several unusual unforced errors, but they were of little consequence as he breezed through the opening set. Nadal broke serve in the first game of the second set and again in the fifth and seventh as he started to play more neatly, bagging it with a service winner. Also Read: French Open 2022: It's painful playing against Russians, says Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko Thompson, who pulled a break back, looked completely worn out by then but managed to hold it together until 2-2, when Nadal broke with a forehand volley and won all the rest of the games.

Rafael Nadal destroys Jordan Thompson to reach French Open second round

Ukraine`s Lesia Tsurenko on Monday called for stronger support for her country from the tennis world following Russia`s invasion and said she was desperate not to play Russians or Belarusians&nbsp;on the tour.

The 32-year-old Tsurenko, a qualifier in Paris who lost in the first round to overwhelming favourite Iga Swiatek, thanked her opponent for wearing a Ukraine pin but said more players needed to speak out.

"I hate what Russian propaganda is saying about Ukraine in general. I really hate it. I feel a lot of anger because there is a lot of lies about my country and it hurts me a lot," Tsurenko told a news conference.

"I don`t know if I can ask players to care more, but I would like to see that from the players, from the WTA, from the ATP, I would like top players just to support more and to show more understanding of what is really going on."

The ATP and WTA Tours last week stripped Wimbledon of its ranking points after the Grand Slam event banned Russian and Belarussian players from this year`s tournament.

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Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 calling it a "special military operation" to demilitarise and "de-nazify" its neighbour. Ukraine and the West call that a false pretext to launch a war of aggression. Belarus has been a key staging area for the invasion.

"I don`t feel good to play against Russian and Belarusian players just because it reminds me what is going on in my country," Tsurenko said.

"It`s painful, I`ll be honest. It`s very painful and I`m always hoping not to get them in my draw."

She has played against Russians several times this year, including once since the invasion.

"I don`t feel good and it was also another question that I had inside of me if I should play or I should just give up, you know, should I just decide not to play against them," she said.

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Russian and Belarusian tennis players are competing on the tour as neutral athletes. Tsurenko backed Wimbledon`s decision to ban players from Russia and Belarus, saying it was only a small price to pay for what was happening in Ukraine.

"We see a lot of sports, they banned Russians. In tennis it`s only one tournament," she said. "I honestly think that this is not a very big price for them (Russians and Belarusians) to pay or to accept."

Ukraine`s Lesia Tsurenko on Monday called for stronger support for her country from the tennis world following Russia`s invasion and said she was desperate not to play Russians or Belarusians on the tour.

Ukraine`s Lesia Tsurenko on Monday called for stronger support for her country from the tennis world following Russia`s invasion and said she was desperate not to play Russians or Belarusians on the tour. The 32-year-old Tsurenko, a qualifier in Paris who lost in the first round to overwhelming favourite Iga Swiatek, thanked her opponent for wearing a Ukraine pin but said more players needed to speak out. "I hate what Russian propaganda is saying about Ukraine in general. I really hate it. I feel a lot of anger because there is a lot of lies about my country and it hurts me a lot," Tsurenko told a news conference. "I don`t know if I can ask players to care more, but I would like to see that from the players, from the WTA, from the ATP, I would like top players just to support more and to show more understanding of what is really going on." The ATP and WTA Tours last week stripped Wimbledon of its ranking points after the Grand Slam event banned Russian and Belarussian players from this year`s tournament. Also Read: French Open: Diane Parry knocks out reigning champion Barbora Krejcikova in first round Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 calling it a "special military operation" to demilitarise and "de-nazify" its neighbour. Ukraine and the West call that a false pretext to launch a war of aggression. Belarus has been a key staging area for the invasion. "I don`t feel good to play against Russian and Belarusian players just because it reminds me what is going on in my country," Tsurenko said. "It`s painful, I`ll be honest. It`s very painful and I`m always hoping not to get them in my draw." She has played against Russians several times this year, including once since the invasion. "I don`t feel good and it was also another question that I had inside of me if I should play or I should just give up, you know, should I just decide not to play against them," she said. Also Read: French Open: Japan's Naomi Osaka knocked out in opening round by Amanda Anisimova Russian and Belarusian tennis players are competing on the tour as neutral athletes. Tsurenko backed Wimbledon`s decision to ban players from Russia and Belarus, saying it was only a small price to pay for what was happening in Ukraine. "We see a lot of sports, they banned Russians. In tennis it`s only one tournament," she said. "I honestly think that this is not a very big price for them (Russians and Belarusians) to pay or to accept."

French Open 2022: It's painful playing against Russians, says Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko

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