Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz outmuscled Olympic champion Alexander Zverev in a marathon five-set contest on Sunday (June 9) to clinch his maiden French Open men’s singles title. Alcaraz, who became the fifth player in last two decades to win the French Open has continued Spanish dominance in Paris adding to Rafael Nadal’s 14 titles. He defeat Zverev 6-2, 2-6, 5-7, 6-1, 6-2 to win his third Grand Slam. He has won Wimbledon in 2023&nbsp;and the US Open in 2022.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
CARLOS I, PRINCE OF CLAY 👑<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> <a href="https://t.co/lZWMplAmYK">pic.twitter.com/lZWMplAmYK</a>
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/status/1799857430601560425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>Alcaraz wins French Open title</h2>

Having got the better of Jannik Sinner in the semifinal, Alcaraz was the favourite to win the French Open title against Zverev. The 21-year-old’s experience in the Grand Slam final came in handy as he won the contest which lasted almost five hours at the Court Philippe-Chatrier. The Spaniard started the match on the front foot having won the opening set 6-2. However, he suffered significant setbacks in the consequent sets and dropped the second and third. Interestingly, Alcaraz dropped the third set despite serving for the set at one point.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-likely-to-take-place-from-feb-9-in-pakistan-suspense-remains-on-indias-travel-plans-730197">Champions Trophy 2025 likely to take place from Feb 9 in Pakistan; suspense remains on India's travel plans</a>

The setbacks did not let Alcaraz lose his confidence as he stormed to win the fourth set 6-1 while taking a 3-0 lead at the start of it. His dominance continued in the fifth set where he broke the German’s serve twice including while he was just two games away from winning the championship.

<h2>Alcaraz cements his legacy</h2>

After winning the French Open, the Spaniard took a giant step towards a career Grand Slam as he now needs to win the Australian Open. At 21 he has a great chance of winning all four Grand Slam titles while one eye will also be on the Paris Olympics which takes place in another month and a half. His win also sees him join the likes of Rafael Nadal, Juan Carlos Ferrero and Carlos Moya in other notable winners in Paris.&nbsp;

For Alexander Zverev, the wait for his first Grand Slam title continues adding to his disappointment. He also lost the 2020 US Open final to Novak Djokovic, in his only other Grand Slam final appearance before this.

Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz outmuscled Olympic champion Alexander Zverev in a marathon five-set contest on Sunday (June 9) to clinch his maiden French Open men’s singles title.

Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz outmuscled Olympic champion Alexander Zverev in a marathon five-set contest on Sunday (June 9) to clinch his maiden French Open men’s singles title. Alcaraz, who became the fifth player in last two decades to win the French Open has continued Spanish dominance in Paris adding to Rafael Nadal’s 14 titles. He defeat Zverev 6-2, 2-6, 5-7, 6-1, 6-2 to win his third Grand Slam. He has won Wimbledon in 2023 and the US Open in 2022. CARLOS I, PRINCE OF CLAY 👑#RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/lZWMplAmYK — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 9, 2024 × Alcaraz wins French Open title Having got the better of Jannik Sinner in the semifinal, Alcaraz was the favourite to win the French Open title against Zverev. The 21-year-old’s experience in the Grand Slam final came in handy as he won the contest which lasted almost five hours at the Court Philippe-Chatrier. The Spaniard started the match on the front foot having won the opening set 6-2. However, he suffered significant setbacks in the consequent sets and dropped the second and third. Interestingly, Alcaraz dropped the third set despite serving for the set at one point. ALSO READ | Champions Trophy 2025 likely to take place from Feb 9 in Pakistan; suspense remains on India's travel plans The setbacks did not let Alcaraz lose his confidence as he stormed to win the fourth set 6-1 while taking a 3-0 lead at the start of it. His dominance continued in the fifth set where he broke the German’s serve twice including while he was just two games away from winning the championship. Alcaraz cements his legacy After winning the French Open, the Spaniard took a giant step towards a career Grand Slam as he now needs to win the Australian Open. At 21 he has a great chance of winning all four Grand Slam titles while one eye will also be on the Paris Olympics which takes place in another month and a half. His win also sees him join the likes of Rafael Nadal, Juan Carlos Ferrero and Carlos Moya in other notable winners in Paris. For Alexander Zverev, the wait for his first Grand Slam title continues adding to his disappointment. He also lost the 2020 US Open final to Novak Djokovic, in his only other Grand Slam final appearance before this.

French Open Final: Spain's Carlos Alcaraz outmuscles Alexander Zverev to clinch maiden title in Paris

French Open singles runner-up Jasmine Paolini suffered another defeat in Sunday's women's doubles final as she and partner Sara Errani lost 7-6 (7/5), 6-3 to Coco Gauff and Katerina Siniakova.

Gauff, the reigning US Open singles champion, won her first Grand Slam doubles title. The 20-year-old American was a losing finalist at the 2021 US Open and 2022 French Open in doubles.

Siniakova, 28, captured her eighth Grand Slam doubles crown and third at Roland Garros. She claimed the other seven titles with fellow Czech Barbora Krejcikova.

"Today is tough to accept," said Paolini, who was beaten in straight sets by world number one Iga Swiatek in Saturday's singles final.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-likely-to-take-place-from-feb-9-in-pakistan-suspense-remains-on-indias-travel-plans-730197">Champions Trophy 2025 likely to take place from Feb 9 in Pakistan; suspense remains on India's travel plans</a>

Gauff entered into a last-minute pairing with Siniakova after Jessica Pegula pulled out due to injury.

She said she hadn't expected to play in the doubles -- let alone win it.

"I definitely didn't think it would happen to me, to be frank," said Gauff, who made the last four in the singles before losing to Swiatek.

"I think that was, like, one of the few times in my life after I lost the first two finals, I thought, well, 'Okay, I reached that point, maybe I should focus on singles.'

"It's just one of those things that when you least expect it to happen, it happens."

French Open singles runner-up Jasmine Paolini suffered another defeat in Sunday's women's doubles final as she and partner Sara Errani lost 7-6 (7/5), 6-3 to Coco Gauff and Katerina Siniakova.

French Open singles runner-up Jasmine Paolini suffered another defeat in Sunday's women's doubles final as she and partner Sara Errani lost 7-6 (7/5), 6-3 to Coco Gauff and Katerina Siniakova. Gauff, the reigning US Open singles champion, won her first Grand Slam doubles title. The 20-year-old American was a losing finalist at the 2021 US Open and 2022 French Open in doubles. Siniakova, 28, captured her eighth Grand Slam doubles crown and third at Roland Garros. She claimed the other seven titles with fellow Czech Barbora Krejcikova. "Today is tough to accept," said Paolini, who was beaten in straight sets by world number one Iga Swiatek in Saturday's singles final. ALSO READ | Champions Trophy 2025 likely to take place from Feb 9 in Pakistan; suspense remains on India's travel plans Gauff entered into a last-minute pairing with Siniakova after Jessica Pegula pulled out due to injury. She said she hadn't expected to play in the doubles -- let alone win it. "I definitely didn't think it would happen to me, to be frank," said Gauff, who made the last four in the singles before losing to Swiatek. "I think that was, like, one of the few times in my life after I lost the first two finals, I thought, well, 'Okay, I reached that point, maybe I should focus on singles.' "It's just one of those things that when you least expect it to happen, it happens."

French Open: Jasmine Paolini beaten again as Coco Gauff, Katerina Siniakova win doubles title

A flawless Casper Ruud stormed into the French Open finals for a second year running by dismantling German 22nd seed Alexander Zverev 6-3 6-4 6-0 in a battle of big-hitters on Friday (June 9) and&nbsp;set up a showdown with 22-times Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic.

Last year's runner-up Ruud swapped early breaks with Zverev before turning up the heat on a warm evening on Court Philippe Chatrier by pounding the German with some vicious, spin-heavy forehands to go up 5-2 and claiming the opening set.

Zverev, playing in a third straight Roland Garros semi-final at the scene of his season-ending ankle injury last year, wasted an early opening in the next set and found himself in trouble as fourth seed Ruud snatched another break in the seventh game.

Ruud extended his lead in the match and continued to control the rallies from behind the baseline to frustrate an error-prone Zverev in the next set, before storming into a third Grand Slam final in his last five events going back to Roland Garros 2022. 
 
&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

A flawless Casper Ruud stormed into the French Open finals for a second year running by dismantling German 22nd seed Alexander Zverev 6-3 6-4 6-0 in a battle of big-hitters on Friday (June 9) and set up a showdown with 22-times Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic.

A flawless Casper Ruud stormed into the French Open finals for a second year running by dismantling German 22nd seed Alexander Zverev 6-3 6-4 6-0 in a battle of big-hitters on Friday (June 9) and set up a showdown with 22-times Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic. Last year's runner-up Ruud swapped early breaks with Zverev before turning up the heat on a warm evening on Court Philippe Chatrier by pounding the German with some vicious, spin-heavy forehands to go up 5-2 and claiming the opening set. Zverev, playing in a third straight Roland Garros semi-final at the scene of his season-ending ankle injury last year, wasted an early opening in the next set and found himself in trouble as fourth seed Ruud snatched another break in the seventh game. Ruud extended his lead in the match and continued to control the rallies from behind the baseline to frustrate an error-prone Zverev in the next set, before storming into a third Grand Slam final in his last five events going back to Roland Garros 2022. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Rampant Ruud stops Zverev to book French Open final clash with Novak Djokovic

Defending champion Iga Swiatek felt the heat as she booked a French Open final spot for the third time in four years with a 6-2 7-6(7) win over Brazilian Beatriz Haddad Maia on Thursday.

The world number one found it tough going during the second set but when it came to the tiebreak, she produced her full array of shots to outwit Haddad Maia and set up a Saturday showdown with unseeded Czech Karolina Muchova.

Swiatek, who lifted the Suzanne Lenglen Cup last year and in 2020, will retain top spot in the WTA rankings after world number two Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus was knocked out earlier.

As fans waved a Polish 'Poland Garros' flag in stands that were half empty when the match started, Swiatek showed rare signs of frustrations but managed to hold it together when it mattered to prevail as the clock hit the 9pm mark.

The 14th seeded Haddad Maia, whose career has been hampered by multiple injuries and 10-month doping ban in 2019-20, had played four consecutive three-set matches to fight her way to the semi-finals but she finally met her match in Swiatek.

Swiatek's previous matches had lasted only a little over an hour each, while Haddad Maia had spent nearly 13 hours on court.

Sent scurrying right, left and centre by Swiatek, the Brazilian relied on her power to try and stop the top seed from running away with the match.

Haddad Maia broke to love in the opening game on Court Philippe Chatrier, where most of the ticket holders for a sold-out day had decided to skip the start of what turned out to be an entertaining encounter.

It did not take Swiatek long to find her groove as she stole her opponent's serve to level for 1-1. She got a second break for 4-2 when Haddad Maia netted a drop shot attempt and sealed the set with another break of serve.

It seemed that Swiatek would stroll through the second set, but Haddad Maier had other ideas.

The Brazilian picked herself up and finally gave Swiatek a run for her money, setting up two break points at 4-4 with a stunning forehand down the line.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-karolina-muchova-stuns-aryna-sabalenka-in-epic-comeback-to-reach-final-602289">French Open: Karolina Muchova stuns Aryna Sabalenka in epic comeback to reach final</a>

With two big first serves, Swiatek saved them and staved off another one before holding, forcing Haddad Maia to serve to stay in the match.

The Brazilian held on to stretch the match into the tiebreak but she wasted a set point when she buried an easy backhand into the net.

Swiatek earned her first match point with a jaw-dropping crosscourt backhand winner, which her opponent saved with a stunning forehand down the line. The Pole had a second opportunity to close out the match at 8-7 and converted it at the net before throwing her fist in into the air in relief. 
&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Defending champion Iga Swiatek felt the heat as she booked a French Open final spot for the third time in four years with a 6-2 7-6(7) win over Brazilian Beatriz Haddad Maia on Thursday.

Defending champion Iga Swiatek felt the heat as she booked a French Open final spot for the third time in four years with a 6-2 7-6(7) win over Brazilian Beatriz Haddad Maia on Thursday. The world number one found it tough going during the second set but when it came to the tiebreak, she produced her full array of shots to outwit Haddad Maia and set up a Saturday showdown with unseeded Czech Karolina Muchova. Swiatek, who lifted the Suzanne Lenglen Cup last year and in 2020, will retain top spot in the WTA rankings after world number two Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus was knocked out earlier. As fans waved a Polish 'Poland Garros' flag in stands that were half empty when the match started, Swiatek showed rare signs of frustrations but managed to hold it together when it mattered to prevail as the clock hit the 9pm mark. The 14th seeded Haddad Maia, whose career has been hampered by multiple injuries and 10-month doping ban in 2019-20, had played four consecutive three-set matches to fight her way to the semi-finals but she finally met her match in Swiatek. Swiatek's previous matches had lasted only a little over an hour each, while Haddad Maia had spent nearly 13 hours on court. Sent scurrying right, left and centre by Swiatek, the Brazilian relied on her power to try and stop the top seed from running away with the match. Haddad Maia broke to love in the opening game on Court Philippe Chatrier, where most of the ticket holders for a sold-out day had decided to skip the start of what turned out to be an entertaining encounter. It did not take Swiatek long to find her groove as she stole her opponent's serve to level for 1-1. She got a second break for 4-2 when Haddad Maia netted a drop shot attempt and sealed the set with another break of serve. It seemed that Swiatek would stroll through the second set, but Haddad Maier had other ideas. The Brazilian picked herself up and finally gave Swiatek a run for her money, setting up two break points at 4-4 with a stunning forehand down the line. Also Read | French Open: Karolina Muchova stuns Aryna Sabalenka in epic comeback to reach final With two big first serves, Swiatek saved them and staved off another one before holding, forcing Haddad Maia to serve to stay in the match. The Brazilian held on to stretch the match into the tiebreak but she wasted a set point when she buried an easy backhand into the net. Swiatek earned her first match point with a jaw-dropping crosscourt backhand winner, which her opponent saved with a stunning forehand down the line. The Pole had a second opportunity to close out the match at 8-7 and converted it at the net before throwing her fist in into the air in relief. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Iga Swiatek feels the heat but ends Haddad Maia’s run to reach Paris final

Novak Djokovic has moved one step closer to a record-breaking 23rd Grand Slam after he got the better of number-one seed Carlos Alcaraz in the semifinals of the French Open on Friday, June 9. Djokovic, a two-time champion at the Roland Garros got the better of the Spaniard by 6-3, 5-7, 6-1, 6-1 at the Philippe Chatrier court. He will now face the winner of Casper Ruud and Alexander Zverev in the final on Sunday where he can win his 23rd Grand Slam title.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Never doubt Novak 💪🇷🇸<a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DjokerNole</a> gets the better of Alcaraz 6-3, 5-7, 6-1, 6-1 to reach a 34th Grand Slam final.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> <a href="https://t.co/fefJZKKMxn">pic.twitter.com/fefJZKKMxn</a>
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/status/1667207182704603144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>What happened in the contest?</h2>

The contest was well anticipated by the Paris crowd and the media around the world as the battle of the two generations. It was expected to be a tight contest, but Djokovic and his experience prevailed in the end as the Serb booked his place in the final. The former World No.1 took the lead in the contest after winning the first set 6-3.&nbsp;However, he lost his serve at the wrong time in the second set.

Alcaraz won the second set 7-5 and looked on course to give a hard time to the 22-time Grand Slam champion. Things though did not pan out perfectly for the World No.1 and he lost the consequent sets by the same score of 6-1. While there was a lot of tussle in the second set, it was the final straw for the defending US Open champion before he surrendered the match to Djokovic.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-ricky-ponting-explains-where-india-did-go-wrong-with-their-bowling-plans-in-first-innings-602434">WTC Final: Ricky Ponting explains where India went wrong with their bowling plan in first innings</a>

<h2>Day with destiny awaits</h2>

The 36-year-old Djokovic will look to conquer his third French Open title on Sunday and could become the player with the most Grand Slam singles titles in the men’s division. Currently level with Rafael Nadal, the Serb will be presented with an opportunity to surpass the great Spaniard in his own backyard, where he is a 14-time champion. Having won the French Open in 2016 and 2021, Djokovic will be eager to add to his tally, which will also see him go level with Serena Williams for most Grand Slam singles titles. Only Margaret Court of Australia with 24 titles has won more Grand Slam singles titles than Djokovic and Williams.

Sunday’s final will be Novak’s 34th Grand Slam title, another record for most Grand Slam finals in the men’s singles division. So far in his 33 Grand Slam singles finals, the Serb has won 22 and lost 11 and will look to get the better of Casper Ruud or Alexander Zverev to reach the milestone title.

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Novak Djokovic has moved one step closer to a record-breaking 23rd Grand Slam after he got the better of number-one seed Carlos Alcaraz in the semifinals of the French Open on Friday, June 9.

Novak Djokovic has moved one step closer to a record-breaking 23rd Grand Slam after he got the better of number-one seed Carlos Alcaraz in the semifinals of the French Open on Friday, June 9. Djokovic, a two-time champion at the Roland Garros got the better of the Spaniard by 6-3, 5-7, 6-1, 6-1 at the Philippe Chatrier court. He will now face the winner of Casper Ruud and Alexander Zverev in the final on Sunday where he can win his 23rd Grand Slam title. Never doubt Novak 💪🇷🇸@DjokerNole gets the better of Alcaraz 6-3, 5-7, 6-1, 6-1 to reach a 34th Grand Slam final.#RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/fefJZKKMxn — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 9, 2023 × What happened in the contest? The contest was well anticipated by the Paris crowd and the media around the world as the battle of the two generations. It was expected to be a tight contest, but Djokovic and his experience prevailed in the end as the Serb booked his place in the final. The former World No.1 took the lead in the contest after winning the first set 6-3. However, he lost his serve at the wrong time in the second set. Alcaraz won the second set 7-5 and looked on course to give a hard time to the 22-time Grand Slam champion. Things though did not pan out perfectly for the World No.1 and he lost the consequent sets by the same score of 6-1. While there was a lot of tussle in the second set, it was the final straw for the defending US Open champion before he surrendered the match to Djokovic. ALSO READ | WTC Final: Ricky Ponting explains where India went wrong with their bowling plan in first innings Day with destiny awaits The 36-year-old Djokovic will look to conquer his third French Open title on Sunday and could become the player with the most Grand Slam singles titles in the men’s division. Currently level with Rafael Nadal, the Serb will be presented with an opportunity to surpass the great Spaniard in his own backyard, where he is a 14-time champion. Having won the French Open in 2016 and 2021, Djokovic will be eager to add to his tally, which will also see him go level with Serena Williams for most Grand Slam singles titles. Only Margaret Court of Australia with 24 titles has won more Grand Slam singles titles than Djokovic and Williams. Sunday’s final will be Novak’s 34th Grand Slam title, another record for most Grand Slam finals in the men’s singles division. So far in his 33 Grand Slam singles finals, the Serb has won 22 and lost 11 and will look to get the better of Casper Ruud or Alexander Zverev to reach the milestone title. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

French Open: Novak Djokovic demolishes World No.1 Carlos Alcaraz to book final berth

Defending Champion Iga Swiatek will take on Karolina Muchova in the French Open final on Saturday. World No. 1 Swiatek will have the chance to win her third Roland Garros crown, while Muchova will be playing in her maiden grand slam final. Will Swiatek continue her dominance in Paris?

Swiatek takes on Muchova in French Open final | WION Sports

Karolina Muchova of the Czech Republic saved a match point and battled back from 2-5 down in the final set to shock world number two Aryna Sabalenka and reach her maiden Grand Slam final at the French Open on Thursday.

Muchova, ranked at 43, defeated the Australian Open winner 7-6 (7/5), 6-7 (5/7), 7-5 in a thrilling three-hour 13-minute match and will face either defending champion Iga Swiatek or Brazil's Beatriz Haddad Maia in Saturday's final.

"It's unbelievable. I just kept fighting. But I don't want to sound cocky, I just keep working on my game," said Muchova.

The 26-year-old added Sabalenka to an impressive list of victims in Paris which included eighth seed Maria Sakkari in the first round and 2021 runner-up Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova in the quarter-final.

For Sabalenka, defeat ended her run of 12 successive match wins at the Slams as she paid a heavy price for 53 unforced errors while the versatile Muchova saved nine of 13 break points.

Muchova, playing in her second Grand Slam semi-final, dug deep to save two break points in the fourth game of the opening set.

Her clever angles countered the raw power of Sabalenka, taking her to set point in the 10th game.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-it-had-been-a-question-of-money-i-would-have-gone-to-saudi-arabia-lionel-messi-on-joining-inter-miami-601947">'If it had been a question of money, I would have gone to Saudi Arabia' - Lionel Messi on joining Inter Miami</a>

She was unable to convert that opportunity but made no mistake at the second time of asking, a wrong-footing, deep backhand giving her the set via a tiebreak after 68 minutes on court.

It was the first set Sabalenka had dropped at the tournament.

Muchova was 2-0 ahead and sensing a shock triumph in the second set but Sabalenka battled back, overcoming double-faulting on a first set point in the tiebreak to level the semi-final on the second.&nbsp;

Suddenly the momentum was with the Belarusian who broke for 4-2 in the decider after seeing four break points come and go in the second game.

Muchova appeared doomed to wilt under the barrage.&nbsp;

However, she saved a match point in the eighth game before incredibly racing away with the last five games to claim a famous win.

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Karolina Muchova of the Czech Republic saved a match point and battled back from 2-5 down in the final set to shock world number two Aryna Sabalenka and reach her maiden Grand Slam final at the French Open on Thursday.

Karolina Muchova of the Czech Republic saved a match point and battled back from 2-5 down in the final set to shock world number two Aryna Sabalenka and reach her maiden Grand Slam final at the French Open on Thursday. Muchova, ranked at 43, defeated the Australian Open winner 7-6 (7/5), 6-7 (5/7), 7-5 in a thrilling three-hour 13-minute match and will face either defending champion Iga Swiatek or Brazil's Beatriz Haddad Maia in Saturday's final. "It's unbelievable. I just kept fighting. But I don't want to sound cocky, I just keep working on my game," said Muchova. The 26-year-old added Sabalenka to an impressive list of victims in Paris which included eighth seed Maria Sakkari in the first round and 2021 runner-up Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova in the quarter-final. For Sabalenka, defeat ended her run of 12 successive match wins at the Slams as she paid a heavy price for 53 unforced errors while the versatile Muchova saved nine of 13 break points. Muchova, playing in her second Grand Slam semi-final, dug deep to save two break points in the fourth game of the opening set. Her clever angles countered the raw power of Sabalenka, taking her to set point in the 10th game. ALSO READ | 'If it had been a question of money, I would have gone to Saudi Arabia' - Lionel Messi on joining Inter Miami She was unable to convert that opportunity but made no mistake at the second time of asking, a wrong-footing, deep backhand giving her the set via a tiebreak after 68 minutes on court. It was the first set Sabalenka had dropped at the tournament. Muchova was 2-0 ahead and sensing a shock triumph in the second set but Sabalenka battled back, overcoming double-faulting on a first set point in the tiebreak to level the semi-final on the second. Suddenly the momentum was with the Belarusian who broke for 4-2 in the decider after seeing four break points come and go in the second game. Muchova appeared doomed to wilt under the barrage. However, she saved a match point in the eighth game before incredibly racing away with the last five games to claim a famous win. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

French Open: Karolina Muchova stuns Aryna Sabalenka in epic comeback to reach final

Norway's 23-year-old Casper Ruud was up against his idol Rafael Nadal in the 2022 French Open men's final on Sunday (June 05). Becoming the first-ever from his country to reach a Major final, Ruud had no answers against Nadal as the Spainard won the battle 6-3, 6-3, 6-0 in straight sets.&nbsp;

It was a dominant display from Nadal. While he won the first set, 6-3, in no time, he was behind in the second set as Ruud led 3-1. However, the 36-year-old rose his game to bounce back and demolished his opposition in a jiffy to seal the finale and win his 14th French Open trophy, also claiming his 22nd Grand Slam title overall.

After the proceedings, Ruud lavished huge praise on Nadal and revealed how not to play against him on clay courts. "Well, I wish I knew the answers too, but I got a cheap break of serve I think in the second set and was up 3-1, and of course wanted to get the match going and maybe try to win the set," Ruud said in a post-match press conference.

"But then he stepped up and he showed that when he needs to he plays great. It was tough for me to really know where I should play the ball. When you are playing defensive against Rafa on clay, he will eat you alive," Ruud opined.

"I said before the match that I guess it is. But now I think I know it is. At least what I have faced. It's really challenging and really tough. But I already knew it in a way,"&nbsp;Ruud added, who&nbsp;has also trained at Rafael Nadal's academy.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/do-you-use-make-up-french-open-champion-iga-swiatek-responds-to-absurd-question-by-journalist-485474">'Do you use make up?' French Open champion Iga Swiatek responds to absurd question by journalist</a>

At 36, Nadal battled injury concerns to reach the summit clash at the Roland Garros and returned with the elusive trophy. After the finale, he opened up on his future and Wimbledon participation and said, "I am going to be in Wimbledon if my body is ready to be in Wimbledon. Wimbledon is not a tournament that I want to miss. Wimbledon is a priority, always has been a priority. If I'm able to play with anti-inflammatories yes. To play with anaesthetic injections, I do not want to put myself in that position again. It can happen once but no it's not the philosophy of life I want to follow. Let's see. I am always a positive guy and always expect the things are going the right way. Let's be confident, let's be positive and let's see what's going on," Nadal stated.

Norway's 23-year-old Casper Ruud was up against his idol Rafael Nadal in the 2022 French Open men's final on Sunday (June 05). Becoming the first-ever from his country to reach a Major final, Ruud had no answers against Nadal as the Spainard won the battle 6-3, 6-3, 6-0 in straight sets.

Norway's 23-year-old Casper Ruud was up against his idol Rafael Nadal in the 2022 French Open men's final on Sunday (June 05). Becoming the first-ever from his country to reach a Major final, Ruud had no answers against Nadal as the Spainard won the battle 6-3, 6-3, 6-0 in straight sets. It was a dominant display from Nadal. While he won the first set, 6-3, in no time, he was behind in the second set as Ruud led 3-1. However, the 36-year-old rose his game to bounce back and demolished his opposition in a jiffy to seal the finale and win his 14th French Open trophy, also claiming his 22nd Grand Slam title overall. After the proceedings, Ruud lavished huge praise on Nadal and revealed how not to play against him on clay courts. "Well, I wish I knew the answers too, but I got a cheap break of serve I think in the second set and was up 3-1, and of course wanted to get the match going and maybe try to win the set," Ruud said in a post-match press conference. "But then he stepped up and he showed that when he needs to he plays great. It was tough for me to really know where I should play the ball. When you are playing defensive against Rafa on clay, he will eat you alive," Ruud opined. "I said before the match that I guess it is. But now I think I know it is. At least what I have faced. It's really challenging and really tough. But I already knew it in a way," Ruud added, who has also trained at Rafael Nadal's academy. ALSO READ | 'Do you use make up?' French Open champion Iga Swiatek responds to absurd question by journalist At 36, Nadal battled injury concerns to reach the summit clash at the Roland Garros and returned with the elusive trophy. After the finale, he opened up on his future and Wimbledon participation and said, "I am going to be in Wimbledon if my body is ready to be in Wimbledon. Wimbledon is not a tournament that I want to miss. Wimbledon is a priority, always has been a priority. If I'm able to play with anti-inflammatories yes. To play with anaesthetic injections, I do not want to put myself in that position again. It can happen once but no it's not the philosophy of life I want to follow. Let's see. I am always a positive guy and always expect the things are going the right way. Let's be confident, let's be positive and let's see what's going on," Nadal stated.

'He'll eat you alive' - Casper Rudd on his experience of playing invincible Rafael Nadal in French Open final

Rafa Nadal has never lost a French Open final. A win on Sunday against first-time Grand Slam finalist Casper Ruud would deliver a record-extending 14th crown to the Spaniard and widen his lead in the men`s race for the most major titles.

Nadal, who turned 36 on Friday, overcame physical ailments and a dismal period of preparation to win the Australian Open in January to take his record-breaking 21st Grand Slam title, breaking a three-way tie with Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.

If he lifts the Musketeers` Cup again on Sunday, it will be the first time the left-hander has taken the hardcourt major in Melbourne and the Roland Garros title in the same year and would keep him in contention for a calendar Grand Slam.

Nadal enjoys near-mythical status at Roland Garros, where a statue has already been erected in his honour. But standing in his way will be the eighth-seeded Norwegian, 13 years younger and the most consistent player on clay courts in the last three years.

Ruud has led the men`s Tour since the start of the 2020 season in clay-court wins, finals and titles and is the first man from his country to make a Grand Slam singles final.

"I have a huge respect for him. First of all in terms of a friend, he has a great character," Nadal said of Ruud, who has been training at his academy in Mallorca since 2018. "He`s a great guy, and he has a great family.

"As a player, of course, I respect him a lot. He did a lot of great things the last couple of years," he said. "It`s not a surprise."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-iga-swiatek-receives-standing-ovation-for-stay-strong-ukraine-message-after-french-open-win-485278">WATCH: Swiatek receives standing ovation for 'Stay strong Ukraine' message after French Open win</a>

Nadal and Ruud have never played a competitive match before, but the duo have hit against each other plenty of times and the Norwegian says he has never won a practice set against his idol.

Ruud, who will rise to a career-high ranking of sixth on Monday, said he has already gone past his pre-season target of making a quarter-final at a major in 2022.

"It is amazing... He is the last player of the Big Three and the very top players in the world I have never played against," Ruud said.

"So I guess this is perfect timing and worth the wait. To finally play him in a Grand Slam final will be a special moment for me. Hopefully a little bit for him as well.

"He has played so many finals, but at least he is playing a student from his academy this time. So it is going to be a fun one hopefully."

Similar to his leadup to the Australian Open, Nadal arrived at Roland Garros with persisting fitness doubts after suffering a rib stress fracture and struggling with a chronic foot injury. He won his first three rounds at the claycourt Grand Slam in straight sets but then had to survive intense four-hour battles to beat Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime in five sets and arch-rival and 2021 champion Djokovic in four.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/id-prefer-to-lose-the-final-rafael-nadal-ready-to-sacrifice-22nd-grand-slam-title-for-new-left-foot-485045">&nbsp;'I'd prefer to lose the final': Rafael Nadal ready to sacrifice 22nd Grand Slam title for new left foot</a>

Nadal, who would pass fellow Spaniard Andres Gimeno as the oldest Roland Garros men`s singles champion if he wins, had to dig deep again in a three-hour slugfest in the semi-final against Alexander Zverev before the German was forced to retire mid-match after injuring his ankle.

Chris Evert, who won seven of her 18 majors at Roland Garros, was unsure of Nadal`s physical condition for the final.

"It`s going to be really interesting," Eurosport expert Evert said after Nadal`s semi-final win on Friday.

"Rafa today against Zverev, even though he gave such a fight, I felt like he was a step slower than normal because he has had such big matches and drawn-out matches along the way, and I wonder which Rafa is going to show up on Sunday."

Rafa Nadal has never lost a French Open final. A win on Sunday against first-time Grand Slam finalist Casper Ruud would deliver a record-extending 14th crown to the Spaniard and widen his lead in the men`s race for the most major titles.

Rafa Nadal has never lost a French Open final. A win on Sunday against first-time Grand Slam finalist Casper Ruud would deliver a record-extending 14th crown to the Spaniard and widen his lead in the men`s race for the most major titles. Nadal, who turned 36 on Friday, overcame physical ailments and a dismal period of preparation to win the Australian Open in January to take his record-breaking 21st Grand Slam title, breaking a three-way tie with Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic. If he lifts the Musketeers` Cup again on Sunday, it will be the first time the left-hander has taken the hardcourt major in Melbourne and the Roland Garros title in the same year and would keep him in contention for a calendar Grand Slam. Nadal enjoys near-mythical status at Roland Garros, where a statue has already been erected in his honour. But standing in his way will be the eighth-seeded Norwegian, 13 years younger and the most consistent player on clay courts in the last three years. Ruud has led the men`s Tour since the start of the 2020 season in clay-court wins, finals and titles and is the first man from his country to make a Grand Slam singles final. "I have a huge respect for him. First of all in terms of a friend, he has a great character," Nadal said of Ruud, who has been training at his academy in Mallorca since 2018. "He`s a great guy, and he has a great family. "As a player, of course, I respect him a lot. He did a lot of great things the last couple of years," he said. "It`s not a surprise." Also Read: WATCH: Swiatek receives standing ovation for 'Stay strong Ukraine' message after French Open win Nadal and Ruud have never played a competitive match before, but the duo have hit against each other plenty of times and the Norwegian says he has never won a practice set against his idol. Ruud, who will rise to a career-high ranking of sixth on Monday, said he has already gone past his pre-season target of making a quarter-final at a major in 2022. "It is amazing... He is the last player of the Big Three and the very top players in the world I have never played against," Ruud said. "So I guess this is perfect timing and worth the wait. To finally play him in a Grand Slam final will be a special moment for me. Hopefully a little bit for him as well. "He has played so many finals, but at least he is playing a student from his academy this time. So it is going to be a fun one hopefully." Similar to his leadup to the Australian Open, Nadal arrived at Roland Garros with persisting fitness doubts after suffering a rib stress fracture and struggling with a chronic foot injury. He won his first three rounds at the claycourt Grand Slam in straight sets but then had to survive intense four-hour battles to beat Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime in five sets and arch-rival and 2021 champion Djokovic in four. Also Read: 'I'd prefer to lose the final': Rafael Nadal ready to sacrifice 22nd Grand Slam title for new left foot Nadal, who would pass fellow Spaniard Andres Gimeno as the oldest Roland Garros men`s singles champion if he wins, had to dig deep again in a three-hour slugfest in the semi-final against Alexander Zverev before the German was forced to retire mid-match after injuring his ankle. Chris Evert, who won seven of her 18 majors at Roland Garros, was unsure of Nadal`s physical condition for the final. "It`s going to be really interesting," Eurosport expert Evert said after Nadal`s semi-final win on Friday. "Rafa today against Zverev, even though he gave such a fight, I felt like he was a step slower than normal because he has had such big matches and drawn-out matches along the way, and I wonder which Rafa is going to show up on Sunday."

French Open 2022 final: Rafael Nadal's bid for more Roland Garros history meets Casper Ruud's resistance

Rafael Nadal said he is ready to sacrifice a record-extending 22nd Grand Slam title in exchange for a new foot. Nadal has been playing in the ongoing French Open 2022 with a chronic left foot injury which he believes can prove fatal and end his illustrious career any day. However, the great Spaniard, who has been en epitome of grit and determination over the years, has made it to yet another final despite the injury. Nadal will take on Casper Rudd in the men's singles final of the French Open 2022 on Sunday (June 05).

It has been far from an easy ride for Nadal in the French Open this year. It's a tournament that the 21-time Grand Slam winner has dominated over the years, however, playing with an injury means he is always at risk of worsening it at the fag end of his career. Nadal said he would 'prefer to lose the final' against Rudd in exchange for a new left foot.

Ahead of the final against Rudd at French Open 2022, Nadal said a new foot would allow to live him happily for the rest of his life and that is worth more than a record-extending 22nd Grand Slam title. Nadal had become the first man to complete 21 Grand Slam titles after winning the Australian Open this year.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/woman-protestor-disrupts-french-open-semi-final-ties-herself-to-the-net-484943">Woman protestor disrupts French Open semi-final, ties herself to the net</a>

"Without a doubt, I'd prefer to lose the final," said Nadal, who turned 36 on Friday when asked about if his foot injury. "My opinion does not change. A new foot would allow me to be happier in my daily life," he added.

"Winning is very nice and gives you an adrenaline rush, but it's temporary and then you have to go on living. I have a life ahead of me and in the future I would love to play sports with my friends. My happiness goes ahead of any title," explained the 21-time Grand Slam champion.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-human-to-feel-sorry-for-alexander-zverev-says-rafael-nadal-after-injury-ends-germans-french-open-bid-484920">&nbsp;It's human to feel sorry for Zverev, says Nadal after injury ends German's French Open bid</a>

On Friday, Nadal won the semi-final at French Open 2022 against German Alexander Zverev, who was forced to retire from the game after a horrific ankle injury. The German left the court in a wheelchair screaming in pain and agony before returning to concede the semi-final. Nadal and Zverev were seen embracing each other after the German's injury.

In the other semi-final, Norway's Casper Rudd got the better of Marin Cilic to enter the final. He will now face Nadal in the summit clash for the elusive title in what can prove to be one of the toughest games of his career.

Rafael Nadal said he is ready to sacrifice a record-extending 22nd Grand Slam title in exchange for a new foot. Nadal has been playing in the ongoing French Open 2022 with a chronic left foot injury which he believes can prove fatal and end his illustrious career any day.

Rafael Nadal said he is ready to sacrifice a record-extending 22nd Grand Slam title in exchange for a new foot. Nadal has been playing in the ongoing French Open 2022 with a chronic left foot injury which he believes can prove fatal and end his illustrious career any day. However, the great Spaniard, who has been en epitome of grit and determination over the years, has made it to yet another final despite the injury. Nadal will take on Casper Rudd in the men's singles final of the French Open 2022 on Sunday (June 05). It has been far from an easy ride for Nadal in the French Open this year. It's a tournament that the 21-time Grand Slam winner has dominated over the years, however, playing with an injury means he is always at risk of worsening it at the fag end of his career. Nadal said he would 'prefer to lose the final' against Rudd in exchange for a new left foot. Ahead of the final against Rudd at French Open 2022, Nadal said a new foot would allow to live him happily for the rest of his life and that is worth more than a record-extending 22nd Grand Slam title. Nadal had become the first man to complete 21 Grand Slam titles after winning the Australian Open this year. Also Read: Woman protestor disrupts French Open semi-final, ties herself to the net "Without a doubt, I'd prefer to lose the final," said Nadal, who turned 36 on Friday when asked about if his foot injury. "My opinion does not change. A new foot would allow me to be happier in my daily life," he added. "Winning is very nice and gives you an adrenaline rush, but it's temporary and then you have to go on living. I have a life ahead of me and in the future I would love to play sports with my friends. My happiness goes ahead of any title," explained the 21-time Grand Slam champion. Also Read: It's human to feel sorry for Zverev, says Nadal after injury ends German's French Open bid On Friday, Nadal won the semi-final at French Open 2022 against German Alexander Zverev, who was forced to retire from the game after a horrific ankle injury. The German left the court in a wheelchair screaming in pain and agony before returning to concede the semi-final. Nadal and Zverev were seen embracing each other after the German's injury. In the other semi-final, Norway's Casper Rudd got the better of Marin Cilic to enter the final. He will now face Nadal in the summit clash for the elusive title in what can prove to be one of the toughest games of his career.

'I'd prefer to lose the final': Rafael Nadal ready to sacrifice 22nd Grand Slam title for new left foot

Coco Gauff says she has "nothing to lose" in Saturday's French Open final against world number one Iga Swiatek, with her opponent on a 34-match winning streak and looking for a second Roland Garros title. Teenage star Gauff is the youngest Grand Slam finalist since Maria Sharapova at Wimbledon 18 years ago and only graduated from high school while in Paris.

The 18-year-old has yet to drop a set in the tournament and showed few signs of nerves in her first major semi-final with a 6-3, 6-1 win over Martina Trevisan.

But she is the underdog against Poland's Swiatek, who will equal Venus Williams' record for the longest women's unbeaten run in the 21st century if she lifts the trophy.

"I think going in I have nothing to lose and she's definitely the favourite going into the match on paper," said American Gauff, who burst onto the scene by making the Wimbledon fourth round as a 15-year-old in 2019.

"I'm just going to play free and play my best tennis. I think in a Grand Slam final anything can happen.

"If I do lift the trophy, honestly, I don't think my life is going to change really. I know it sounds kind of bad to say that, but the people who love me are still going to love me regardless if I lift the trophy or not."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/woman-protestor-disrupts-french-open-semi-final-ties-herself-to-the-net-484943">Woman protestor disrupts French Open semi-final, ties herself to the net</a>

Swiatek, who herself only turned 21 on Tuesday, has enjoyed a remarkable season and is looking for a sixth successive title. The 2020 French Open champion's 6-2, 6-1 semi-final thrashing of Daria Kasatkina saw her draw level with Serena Williams' career-best winning streak from 2013.

"It's going to be tough (for her opponent)," said Russian Kasatkina after seeing her run comprehensively ended by the top seed.

"I think the mental part is going to, especially at the beginning, make a big difference.

"It's difficult when the player is moving good and then she can transition to attack mode. Then it makes it really, really tough."

Swiatek has an excellent French Open record and has become the youngest player to win 20 matches at Roland Garros since Martina Hingis in 1999. Four of Swiatek's five tournament victories this year have come at the prestigious WTA 1,000 events, but she says she still has to battle nerves before big matches.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-human-to-feel-sorry-for-alexander-zverev-says-rafael-nadal-after-injury-ends-germans-french-open-bid-484920">It's human to feel sorry for Zverev, says Nadal after injury ends German's French Open bid</a>

"I couldn't get rid of the expectations fully (in the semi-finals), but I tried to accept that, that they are going to be there and it's going to stress me a little bit more," said Swiatek, who is hoping to become the 10th multiple Roland Garros winner in the Open era.

Gauff wrote "peace, end gun violence" on a courtside TV camera after her semi-final victory and has said she wants to speak out about issues off the court.

Swiatek, though, does not think she is ready yet to use her profile to talk about political or social issues.

"I don't actually know how I want to use my platform," she said. "I haven't figured it out yet, because it's still pretty new for me.

"I feel like I really have to focus on my tennis first. When I'm going to get more experience in life generally I think it's going to be easier for me to choose the right path."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/iga-swiatek-vs-coco-gauff-enrico-piperno-opines-on-high-voltage-french-open-womens-singles-final-484846">Iga Swiatek vs Coco Gauff: Enrico Piperno opines on high-voltage French Open women's singles final</a>

The Pole has won both of her career meetings with Gauff -- in the 2021 Rome semi-finals and in Miami earlier this year.

"I'm pretty happy that she's doing well, because I think she's also had a huge amount of pressure in her life," Swiatek said of Gauff, who is also into the women's doubles final alongside Jessica Pegula.

"When I see her, I tend to forget that she's 18."

Swiatek says she listens to classic rock music, including Led Zeppelin and AC/DC, before stepping onto court, while Gauff enjoys a hardcore rap playlist.

But there won't be a clash of styles on Court Philippe Chatrier as both players have a game based on hard-hitting from the baseline. With a combined age younger than the injured Serena Williams, this could be the first Grand Slam chapter of a long rivalry at the top of the women's game. 
&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/swiatek-vs-gauff-world-no-1-vs-world-no-23-484873/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Coco Gauff says she has "nothing to lose" in Saturday's French Open final against world number one Iga Swiatek, with her opponent on a 34-match winning streak and looking for a second Roland Garros title.

Coco Gauff says she has "nothing to lose" in Saturday's French Open final against world number one Iga Swiatek, with her opponent on a 34-match winning streak and looking for a second Roland Garros title. Teenage star Gauff is the youngest Grand Slam finalist since Maria Sharapova at Wimbledon 18 years ago and only graduated from high school while in Paris. The 18-year-old has yet to drop a set in the tournament and showed few signs of nerves in her first major semi-final with a 6-3, 6-1 win over Martina Trevisan. But she is the underdog against Poland's Swiatek, who will equal Venus Williams' record for the longest women's unbeaten run in the 21st century if she lifts the trophy. "I think going in I have nothing to lose and she's definitely the favourite going into the match on paper," said American Gauff, who burst onto the scene by making the Wimbledon fourth round as a 15-year-old in 2019. "I'm just going to play free and play my best tennis. I think in a Grand Slam final anything can happen. "If I do lift the trophy, honestly, I don't think my life is going to change really. I know it sounds kind of bad to say that, but the people who love me are still going to love me regardless if I lift the trophy or not." Also Read: Woman protestor disrupts French Open semi-final, ties herself to the net Swiatek, who herself only turned 21 on Tuesday, has enjoyed a remarkable season and is looking for a sixth successive title. The 2020 French Open champion's 6-2, 6-1 semi-final thrashing of Daria Kasatkina saw her draw level with Serena Williams' career-best winning streak from 2013. "It's going to be tough (for her opponent)," said Russian Kasatkina after seeing her run comprehensively ended by the top seed. "I think the mental part is going to, especially at the beginning, make a big difference. "It's difficult when the player is moving good and then she can transition to attack mode. Then it makes it really, really tough." Swiatek has an excellent French Open record and has become the youngest player to win 20 matches at Roland Garros since Martina Hingis in 1999. Four of Swiatek's five tournament victories this year have come at the prestigious WTA 1,000 events, but she says she still has to battle nerves before big matches. Also Read: It's human to feel sorry for Zverev, says Nadal after injury ends German's French Open bid "I couldn't get rid of the expectations fully (in the semi-finals), but I tried to accept that, that they are going to be there and it's going to stress me a little bit more," said Swiatek, who is hoping to become the 10th multiple Roland Garros winner in the Open era. Gauff wrote "peace, end gun violence" on a courtside TV camera after her semi-final victory and has said she wants to speak out about issues off the court. Swiatek, though, does not think she is ready yet to use her profile to talk about political or social issues. "I don't actually know how I want to use my platform," she said. "I haven't figured it out yet, because it's still pretty new for me. "I feel like I really have to focus on my tennis first. When I'm going to get more experience in life generally I think it's going to be easier for me to choose the right path." Also Read: Iga Swiatek vs Coco Gauff: Enrico Piperno opines on high-voltage French Open women's singles final The Pole has won both of her career meetings with Gauff -- in the 2021 Rome semi-finals and in Miami earlier this year. "I'm pretty happy that she's doing well, because I think she's also had a huge amount of pressure in her life," Swiatek said of Gauff, who is also into the women's doubles final alongside Jessica Pegula. "When I see her, I tend to forget that she's 18." Swiatek says she listens to classic rock music, including Led Zeppelin and AC/DC, before stepping onto court, while Gauff enjoys a hardcore rap playlist. But there won't be a clash of styles on Court Philippe Chatrier as both players have a game based on hard-hitting from the baseline. With a combined age younger than the injured Serena Williams, this could be the first Grand Slam chapter of a long rivalry at the top of the women's game. ×

Coco Gauff has 'nothing to lose' against world no.1 Iga Swiatek in French Open 2022 final

Novak Djokovic on Sunday won his 19th Grand Slam title while becoming the first man in 52 years to win all four majors twice as he turned the tables from two sets down to defeat Stefanos Tsitsipas in the Roland Garros final.<o:p></o:p>

The world number one won the summit clash 6-7 (6/8), 2-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 over the 22-year-old Greek who was playing in his first Slam final.<o:p></o:p>

Djokovic, now 34, is just one Grand Slam away from equaling the all-time record of 20 majors, jointly held by Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, whom he defeated in the four-hour-long and gruelling semi-final.<o:p></o:p>

Tsitsipas recovered from a breakdown to clinch the opening set in a thrilling tiebreak before quickly sealing the second set.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-barbora-krejcikova-wins-her-second-french-open-title-in-less-than-24-hours-391183" hreflang="en">French Open: Barbora Krejcikova wins her second French Open title in less than 24 hours</a>

However, Djokovic found his rhythm at the right time and started to stamp his authority in the third set. As the clock ticked past, Tsitsipas requested the trainer to massage his lower back. The move backfired as Djokovic ramped through the fourth set, almost unchallenged.<o:p></o:p>

The Serbian ace decisively broke for a 2-1 lead in the decider as the 34-year-old secured the win in four hours and 11 minutes, making him the first man since tennis turned professional in 1968 to win all four Grand Slam titles at least twice.<o:p></o:p>

In total, Djokovic played around 20 hours of tennis in the Roland Garros as he continues to leave fans in awe.

<o:p></o:p>

Djokovic now has 84 career titles in total while Sunday's win pushed him to the brink of $150 million in prize money.

"It was an electric atmosphere," said Djokovic after the four-hour 11-minute final.

"It's a dream. It's difficult to win the title against a great player. It was a difficult three days physically and mentally."

Roland Garros, Men’s Final, Score: Novak Djokovic (SRB x1) bt Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE x5) 6-7 (6/8), 2-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-

Novak Djokovic on Sunday won his 19th Grand Slam title while becoming the first man in 52 years to win all four majors twice as he turned the tables from two sets down to defeat Stefanos Tsitsipas in the Roland Garros final.

Novak Djokovic on Sunday won his 19th Grand Slam title while becoming the first man in 52 years to win all four majors twice as he turned the tables from two sets down to defeat Stefanos Tsitsipas in the Roland Garros final. The world number one won the summit clash 6-7 (6/8), 2-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 over the 22-year-old Greek who was playing in his first Slam final. Djokovic, now 34, is just one Grand Slam away from equaling the all-time record of 20 majors, jointly held by Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, whom he defeated in the four-hour-long and gruelling semi-final. Tsitsipas recovered from a breakdown to clinch the opening set in a thrilling tiebreak before quickly sealing the second set. ALSO READ: French Open: Barbora Krejcikova wins her second French Open title in less than 24 hours However, Djokovic found his rhythm at the right time and started to stamp his authority in the third set. As the clock ticked past, Tsitsipas requested the trainer to massage his lower back. The move backfired as Djokovic ramped through the fourth set, almost unchallenged. The Serbian ace decisively broke for a 2-1 lead in the decider as the 34-year-old secured the win in four hours and 11 minutes, making him the first man since tennis turned professional in 1968 to win all four Grand Slam titles at least twice. In total, Djokovic played around 20 hours of tennis in the Roland Garros as he continues to leave fans in awe. Djokovic now has 84 career titles in total while Sunday's win pushed him to the brink of $150 million in prize money. "It was an electric atmosphere," said Djokovic after the four-hour 11-minute final. "It's a dream. It's difficult to win the title against a great player. It was a difficult three days physically and mentally." Roland Garros, Men’s Final, Score: Novak Djokovic (SRB x1) bt Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE x5) 6-7 (6/8), 2-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-

Tennis: Novak Djokovic scripts history with 19th Grand Slam in thrilling French Open final

Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal will meet for the 56th time on Sunday in the Roland Garros final.

<h2>AFP Sport looks at the numbers in a rivalry which began in 2005:</h2>

Djokovic leads 15-11 in all finals

Nadal leads 9-6 in Grand Slam meetings

Tied 4-4 in Grand Slam finals&nbsp;

Nadal leads 17-7 in clay meetings

Nadal leads 7-4 in clay finals&nbsp;

Nadal leads 2-0 in Roland Garros finals

<h2>Roland Garros meetings</h2>

Nadal leads 6-1&nbsp;

2015 QF: Djokovic 7-5, 6-3, 6-1&nbsp;

2014 F: &nbsp;Nadal 6-3, 5-7, 6-2, 6-4&nbsp;

2013 SF: Nadal 6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 6-7, 9-7&nbsp;

2012 F: &nbsp;Nadal 6-4, 6-3, 2-6, 7-5&nbsp;

2008 SF: Nadal 6-4, 6-2, 7-6&nbsp;

2007 SF: Nadal 7-5, 6-4, 6-2&nbsp;

2006 QF: Nadal 6-4, 6-4, retired

Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal will meet for the 56th time on Sunday in the Roland Garros final. AFP Sport looks at the numbers in a rivalry which began in 200

Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal will meet for the 56th time on Sunday in the Roland Garros final. AFP Sport looks at the numbers in a rivalry which began in 2005: Djokovic leads 15-11 in all finals Nadal leads 9-6 in Grand Slam meetings Tied 4-4 in Grand Slam finals Nadal leads 17-7 in clay meetings Nadal leads 7-4 in clay finals Nadal leads 2-0 in Roland Garros finals Roland Garros meetings Nadal leads 6-1 2015 QF: Djokovic 7-5, 6-3, 6-1 2014 F: Nadal 6-3, 5-7, 6-2, 6-4 2013 SF: Nadal 6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 6-7, 9-7 2012 F: Nadal 6-4, 6-3, 2-6, 7-5 2008 SF: Nadal 6-4, 6-2, 7-6 2007 SF: Nadal 7-5, 6-4, 6-2 2006 QF: Nadal 6-4, 6-4, retired

Djokovic v Nadal by the numbers

Rafael Nadal demolishes Juan Martin del Potro to to set up a final showdown with Dominic Thiem on coming Sunday.

The Spanish world number, who is just is one win away from title number 11, &nbspedged a tight first set but then blew the fifth seed away.

Del Potro had forced six break points during the first set but each time Nadal fended them off.&nbsp

Nadal had not had a sniff on Del Potro's serve until, at 5-4, two swishes of his forehand forced two set points, the second of which he converted when the Argentinian netted.

Del Potro was in the semi-finals for the first time since he recovered from three years of injury problems which made him contemplate quitting the sport.

Nadal, who has lifted the trophy every time he has reached the last four at Roland Garros, made a comeback at the start of the third and went on to register a comprehensive 6-4 6-1 6-2 victory.

The Spanish world number edged a tight first set but then blew the fifth seed away

Rafael Nadal demolishes Juan Martin del Potro to to set up a final showdown with Dominic Thiem on coming Sunday. The Spanish world number, who is just is one win away from title number 11, &nbspedged a tight first set but then blew the fifth seed away. Del Potro had forced six break points during the first set but each time Nadal fended them off. Nadal had not had a sniff on Del Potro's serve until, at 5-4, two swishes of his forehand forced two set points, the second of which he converted when the Argentinian netted. Del Potro was in the semi-finals for the first time since he recovered from three years of injury problems which made him contemplate quitting the sport. Nadal, who has lifted the trophy every time he has reached the last four at Roland Garros, made a comeback at the start of the third and went on to register a comprehensive 6-4 6-1 6-2 victory.

Rafael Nadal demolishes Del Potro to reach 11th French Open final

Simona Halep set up a French Open final against Jelena Ostapenko on Thursday, taking her to within touching distance of a first Grand Slam title and the world number one spot.

Romanian third seed Halep, the runner-up to Maria Sharapova in 2014, claimed a 6-4, 3-6, 6-3 win over Karolina Pliskova, the second-seeded Czech.

Unseeded Ostapenko downed Timea Bacsinszky 7-6 (7/4), 3-6, 6-3 on her 20th birthday to become the first Latvian finalist at a major.

The eventual champion on Saturday will be a first-time major winner while victory for Halep would crown her as the new world number one, replacing Angelique Kerber.

&quot;It&#39;s an amazing feeling right now,&quot; said 25-year-old Halep after her fifth win in six meetings against Pliskova, the world number three.

&quot;It was extremely tough today as Karolina is a very tough opponent.

&quot;To be in the final again is great. I hope to win this time.

&quot;But I am facing a young opponent, it will be a big challenge.&quot;

Pliskova ended the tie with 45 winners and a staggering 55 unforced errors.

In contrast, Halep registered 14 in both columns.

For Halep, the win came just a day after she saved a match point and came from a set and 1-5 to beat Elina Svitolina in the last eight.

Pliskova, the 25-year-old Czech, would have taken the world top spot if she had made her second Slam final.

In the end, she could at least reflect on progress in Paris -- before this year, she had never got beyond the second round in five attempts.

Ostapenko presented herself with the perfect 20th birthday gift by reaching a first French Open final after blasting past 30th seed Bacsinszky, a semi-finalist also in 2015.

&quot;I&#39;m really happy to be in the final, especially on my birthday. I think it&#39;s a nice gift,&quot; said Ostapenko, whose win was greeted by the crowd singing &#39;happy birthday&#39;.

The world number 47 is the first unseeded player to reach the final in Paris since Mima Jausovec in 1983.

Ostapenko is also the youngest woman to advance to the final of a major since a 19-year-old Caroline Wozniacki finished runner-up at the 2009 US Open.

&quot;I was always playing aggressive and hitting the ball when I have a chance,&quot; said Ostapenko, who smacked 50 winners to Bacsinszky&#39;s 22.

&quot;It was a really tough match. I think it was a battle.

&quot;I think it was kind of important that I won the first set, even the second I lost, but in the third set I found my game again.

&quot;I felt a little bit tight because...I was very close to making the final and some thoughts were in my mind,&quot; added Ostapenko, whose previous best run at a Slam was reaching the third round at the Australian Open.&nbsp;

&quot;But then I was just trying to be calm and just to try to play my game and just enjoy every moment.&quot;

For Bacsinszky it was a second semi-final defeat in Paris.

&quot;Of course I&#39;m disappointed. I&#39;m a competitor, and it really annoys me not to be in the final,&quot; said Bacsinszky, who was beaten on her 28th birthday.

&quot;I&#39;m not ashamed to say that she played better. She was braver. She had more courage. She was more successful.&quot;

Ostapenko fell in the first round on her main draw debut in Paris last year but is one win away from becoming the first player since Gustavo Kuerten in 1997 to win their maiden tour-level title at a Slam.

Ostapenko fired 50 winners and 45 unforced errors in her victory.

She has 245 winners from six rounds -- more than Andy Murray&#39;s 174 after five matches.

(AFP)

 
&nbsp;

Romanian third seed Halep beat Karolina Pliskova, the second-seeded Czech

Simona Halep set up a French Open final against Jelena Ostapenko on Thursday, taking her to within touching distance of a first Grand Slam title and the world number one spot. Romanian third seed Halep, the runner-up to Maria Sharapova in 2014, claimed a 6-4, 3-6, 6-3 win over Karolina Pliskova, the second-seeded Czech. Unseeded Ostapenko downed Timea Bacsinszky 7-6 (7/4), 3-6, 6-3 on her 20th birthday to become the first Latvian finalist at a major. The eventual champion on Saturday will be a first-time major winner while victory for Halep would crown her as the new world number one, replacing Angelique Kerber. "It's an amazing feeling right now," said 25-year-old Halep after her fifth win in six meetings against Pliskova, the world number three. "It was extremely tough today as Karolina is a very tough opponent. "To be in the final again is great. I hope to win this time. "But I am facing a young opponent, it will be a big challenge." Pliskova ended the tie with 45 winners and a staggering 55 unforced errors. In contrast, Halep registered 14 in both columns. For Halep, the win came just a day after she saved a match point and came from a set and 1-5 to beat Elina Svitolina in the last eight. Pliskova, the 25-year-old Czech, would have taken the world top spot if she had made her second Slam final. In the end, she could at least reflect on progress in Paris -- before this year, she had never got beyond the second round in five attempts. Ostapenko presented herself with the perfect 20th birthday gift by reaching a first French Open final after blasting past 30th seed Bacsinszky, a semi-finalist also in 2015. "I'm really happy to be in the final, especially on my birthday. I think it's a nice gift," said Ostapenko, whose win was greeted by the crowd singing 'happy birthday'. The world number 47 is the first unseeded player to reach the final in Paris since Mima Jausovec in 1983. Ostapenko is also the youngest woman to advance to the final of a major since a 19-year-old Caroline Wozniacki finished runner-up at the 2009 US Open. "I was always playing aggressive and hitting the ball when I have a chance," said Ostapenko, who smacked 50 winners to Bacsinszky's 22. "It was a really tough match. I think it was a battle. "I think it was kind of important that I won the first set, even the second I lost, but in the third set I found my game again. "I felt a little bit tight because...I was very close to making the final and some thoughts were in my mind," added Ostapenko, whose previous best run at a Slam was reaching the third round at the Australian Open. "But then I was just trying to be calm and just to try to play my game and just enjoy every moment." For Bacsinszky it was a second semi-final defeat in Paris. "Of course I'm disappointed. I'm a competitor, and it really annoys me not to be in the final," said Bacsinszky, who was beaten on her 28th birthday. "I'm not ashamed to say that she played better. She was braver. She had more courage. She was more successful." Ostapenko fell in the first round on her main draw debut in Paris last year but is one win away from becoming the first player since Gustavo Kuerten in 1997 to win their maiden tour-level title at a Slam. Ostapenko fired 50 winners and 45 unforced errors in her victory. She has 245 winners from six rounds -- more than Andy Murray's 174 after five matches. (AFP)

Halep, Ostapenko to clash for French Open title