World number two Roger Federer says he is mulling a return to the European clay-court season in 2019 following a two-year absence.

Federer, speaking to ESPN on the sidelines of this weekend's Laver Cup, has skipped the clay-court segment of the season since 2017 in order to conserve energy for Wimbledon and hard-court seasons.

However the 37-year-old revealed he is rethinking his scheduling for next season, and may yet play on clay.

"The clay-court season is under review," Federer told ESPN. "It's not off the table. I will know by the end of the year."

Three ATP Masters events are held on clay as well as several smaller tournaments in the build up to the French Open.

Federer said if he does opt to play the clay-court season it will require a significant tweak of his training regime.

"I would like to make up my mind ahead of time so I can plan my buildup, my fitness schedule, even the way I would approach my December practice sessions," Federer said. "It could benefit the clay-court season.

"This is something that is obviously a big deal. If you play the clay, it changes everything."

Federer has won a record 20 Grand Slam singles titles but clay has been his least favourite surface. His haul of Grand Slam titles includes only one victory at Roland Garros, in 2009, when he completed his career Grand Slam.

He last reached the French Open final in 2011, when he was beaten in four sets by Rafael Nadal.

World number two Roger Federer says he is mulling a return to the European clay-court season in 2019 following a two-year absence. Federer, speaking to ESPN on the sidelines of this weekend's Laver Cup, has skipped the clay-court segment of the season since 2017 in order to conserve energy for Wimbledon and hard-court seasons.

World number two Roger Federer says he is mulling a return to the European clay-court season in 2019 following a two-year absence. Federer, speaking to ESPN on the sidelines of this weekend's Laver Cup, has skipped the clay-court segment of the season since 2017 in order to conserve energy for Wimbledon and hard-court seasons. However the 37-year-old revealed he is rethinking his scheduling for next season, and may yet play on clay. "The clay-court season is under review," Federer told ESPN. "It's not off the table. I will know by the end of the year." Three ATP Masters events are held on clay as well as several smaller tournaments in the build up to the French Open. Federer said if he does opt to play the clay-court season it will require a significant tweak of his training regime. "I would like to make up my mind ahead of time so I can plan my buildup, my fitness schedule, even the way I would approach my December practice sessions," Federer said. "It could benefit the clay-court season. "This is something that is obviously a big deal. If you play the clay, it changes everything." Federer has won a record 20 Grand Slam singles titles but clay has been his least favourite surface. His haul of Grand Slam titles includes only one victory at Roland Garros, in 2009, when he completed his career Grand Slam. He last reached the French Open final in 2011, when he was beaten in four sets by Rafael Nadal.

Federer mulling clay court return in 2019

World number one Rafael&nbspNadal&nbspsaid it was beyond a dream to win his 11th Roland Garros title after defeating Austrian Dominic Thiem in straight sets on Sunday.

"It's amazing now, I can't describe my feelings,"&nbspNadal&nbsptold the crowd on Philippe Chatrier Court moments after capturing his 17th Grand Slam trophy with a 6-4 6-3 6-2 victory.

"It's not even a dream to win here 11 times, because its impossible to think of something like this."

Nadal&nbspsaluted his 24-year-old opponent, who is the only man to have beaten the Spaniard on clay over the past two seasons.

"He's very aggressive, with big shots,"&nbspNadal&nbspsaid in halting French before switching to English.

"I want to say well played to Dominic. He played a great two weeks. He's a good friend, one of these players that the tour needs. I am sure you'll win here in the next couple of years."

The emotional Spaniard wiped away tears as he held on to the Coupe de Mousquetaires.

"Many thanks," he told the crowd. "I hope to see you again next year."

World number one Rafael Nadal said it was beyond a dream to win his 11th Roland Garros title after defeating Austrian Dominic Thiem in straight sets

World number one Rafael&nbspNadal&nbspsaid it was beyond a dream to win his 11th Roland Garros title after defeating Austrian Dominic Thiem in straight sets on Sunday. "It's amazing now, I can't describe my feelings,"&nbspNadal&nbsptold the crowd on Philippe Chatrier Court moments after capturing his 17th Grand Slam trophy with a 6-4 6-3 6-2 victory. "It's not even a dream to win here 11 times, because its impossible to think of something like this." Nadal&nbspsaluted his 24-year-old opponent, who is the only man to have beaten the Spaniard on clay over the past two seasons. "He's very aggressive, with big shots,"&nbspNadal&nbspsaid in halting French before switching to English. "I want to say well played to Dominic. He played a great two weeks. He's a good friend, one of these players that the tour needs. I am sure you'll win here in the next couple of years." The emotional Spaniard wiped away tears as he held on to the Coupe de Mousquetaires. "Many thanks," he told the crowd. "I hope to see you again next year."

It's beyond a dream to win French Open title 11 times: Rafael Nadal

Spanish Tennis star Rafael Nadal on Sunday defeated Australian seventh seed Dominic Thiem 6-4 6-3 6-2 to clinch the 11th French Open title at Roland Garros.

The Spaniard edged an intense opening set, tightening his grip in the second.

And he increased the tempo further, consigning Thiem to defeat in his first major final when the Austrian sent a return long.

Nadal is the only second player in history to win the same Grand Slam on 11 occasions after Margaret Court, who won 11 Australian Open titles between 1960 and 1973.

Nadal dropped his racquet at the baseline in celebration before turning to his box and raising both hands skywards.

The Spaniard had been the hot favourite to win the second Slam of the year, after warming up with three clay-court titles in Monte Carlo, Barcelona and Rome.

Thiem, who is playing in his first Grand Slam final, had very few answers to Nadal's brilliance.

Nadal is the only second player in history to win the same Grand Slam on 11 occasions

Spanish Tennis star Rafael Nadal on Sunday defeated Australian seventh seed Dominic Thiem 6-4 6-3 6-2 to clinch the 11th French Open title at Roland Garros. The Spaniard edged an intense opening set, tightening his grip in the second. And he increased the tempo further, consigning Thiem to defeat in his first major final when the Austrian sent a return long. Nadal is the only second player in history to win the same Grand Slam on 11 occasions after Margaret Court, who won 11 Australian Open titles between 1960 and 1973. Nadal dropped his racquet at the baseline in celebration before turning to his box and raising both hands skywards. The Spaniard had been the hot favourite to win the second Slam of the year, after warming up with three clay-court titles in Monte Carlo, Barcelona and Rome. Thiem, who is playing in his first Grand Slam final, had very few answers to Nadal's brilliance.

Rafael Nadal routs Dominic Thiem to clinch 11th French Open title

The 2018 French Open women's singles final is set, world number one Simona Halep will face US Open champion Sloane Stephens on June 9, Friday at Philippe-Chatrier.

Sloane Stephens | #10

Sloane Stephens defeated fellow American Madison Keys 6-4, 6-4 in the semi-finals of French Open.

Stephens, who had never gone past the fourth round in Paris, will meet world number one Simona Halep.

The 25-year-old Stephens will become the first American other than the Williams sisters break into the top five in the WTA rankings.

Simona Halep | #1

Top seed Simona Halep reached her third French Open final.

World number one Simona Halep is eyeing her first Grand Slam title. She has lost three previous Grand Slam finals, including two at Roland Garros in 2014 and 2017.

"I think I played one of my best matches on clay," Halep said. "Every day I play better and that makes me happy."

The 2018 French Open women's singles final is set, world number one Simona Halep will face US Open champion Sloane Stephens

The 2018 French Open women's singles final is set, world number one Simona Halep will face US Open champion Sloane Stephens on June 9, Friday at Philippe-Chatrier. Sloane Stephens | #10 Sloane Stephens defeated fellow American Madison Keys 6-4, 6-4 in the semi-finals of French Open. Stephens, who had never gone past the fourth round in Paris, will meet world number one Simona Halep. The 25-year-old Stephens will become the first American other than the Williams sisters break into the top five in the WTA rankings. Simona Halep | #1 Top seed Simona Halep reached her third French Open final. World number one Simona Halep is eyeing her first Grand Slam title. She has lost three previous Grand Slam finals, including two at Roland Garros in 2014 and 2017. "I think I played one of my best matches on clay," Halep said. "Every day I play better and that makes me happy."

French Open: Sloane Stephens, Simona Halep to meet in women's singles final

The 2018 French Open men's singles final is set, world number one Rafael Nadal will face Austrian Dominic Thiem on June 10, Sunday at Philippe-Chatrier.

Only two players have managed to beat Nadal at the French Open since he first bounded into Roland Garros in 2005 armed with a bulging left bicep, pirate pants and a pulverising brand of claycourt tennis the like of which had not been seen before.

Thirteen years on and his record next to the Bois de Boulogne stands at an incredible 85 wins and two losses.

The 86th win on Sunday will give the 32-year-old Spaniard an 11th French Open title -- a joint record for triumphs at a single Grand Slam along with Margaret Court who won 11 Australian Open trophies, albeit not all in the professional era.

It looks a daunting mission for the 24-year-old Thiem but not necessarily an impossible one.

He is the only player to beat Nadal on clay in the past two years -- in Rome last year and in Madrid last month -- and this season no other player, not even the undisputed claycourt king, can count as many match wins on the red dirt.

True, he was obliterated by Nadal in the semi-final 12 months ago but Thiem has added more aggression to his natural claycourt weapons, specifically the forehand, as he displayed when stunning Nadal in the Madrid quarter-final.

That win, according to three-times former champion Mats Wilander, should be all Thiem is thinking about when he prepares for Sunday's clash.

"Forget the 10 (French Open titles) and forget what happened last year, Thiem has to remember what happened in Madrid which is a title Nadal wants to win almost as much as the French," Wilander, Eurosport's chief analyst, told Reuters.

Wilander believes Thiem can worry Nadal if he is prepared to "take risks" like Diego Schwartzman did in the quarter-finals when he snapped the left-hander's run of 37 consecutive completed sets won at the French Open by snatching the opener.

If not, it will be Goodnight Vienna for the man with one of the best single-handed backhands in tennis.

"The only way to beat Rafa on clay is to take risks... to over-achieve you have to over-play and risk more than you feel comfortable doing," Wilander said.

"If Thiem can do that and build enough hope in the first hour, hour and a half, maybe get the first set he can make it physical like he did in Madrid. I'm not sure if Thiem and Rafa had a run in the Bois de Boulogne that Rafa would win.

"Thiem is an animal physically and in terms of hitting the ball hard on the forehand."

Plenty have gone in with sound tactical plans against the 16-times Grand Slam champion in Paris but when the forehand bombardment begins, the best-laid plans usually fall apart as was the case in Friday's semi-final when Nadal thrashed Juan Martin del Potro who many thought posed a credible threat.

"Rafa is a genius on clay, so far ahead tactically," Wilander said. "It's like he has a built-in coach in his mind. You can't tell what he's going to do before he does it, but when he does it, it all looks so obvious!"

Thiem is looking to become only the second Austrian player -- man or woman -- to win a Grand Slam title after Thomas Muster's French Open victory in 1995.

Nadal will retain the world number one ranking if he wins - but that will be the last thing on his mind.

The 2018 French Open men's singles final is set, world number one Rafael Nadal will face Austrian Dominic Thiem at Philippe-Chatrier

The 2018 French Open men's singles final is set, world number one Rafael Nadal will face Austrian Dominic Thiem on June 10, Sunday at Philippe-Chatrier. Only two players have managed to beat Nadal at the French Open since he first bounded into Roland Garros in 2005 armed with a bulging left bicep, pirate pants and a pulverising brand of claycourt tennis the like of which had not been seen before. Thirteen years on and his record next to the Bois de Boulogne stands at an incredible 85 wins and two losses. The 86th win on Sunday will give the 32-year-old Spaniard an 11th French Open title -- a joint record for triumphs at a single Grand Slam along with Margaret Court who won 11 Australian Open trophies, albeit not all in the professional era. It looks a daunting mission for the 24-year-old Thiem but not necessarily an impossible one. He is the only player to beat Nadal on clay in the past two years -- in Rome last year and in Madrid last month -- and this season no other player, not even the undisputed claycourt king, can count as many match wins on the red dirt. True, he was obliterated by Nadal in the semi-final 12 months ago but Thiem has added more aggression to his natural claycourt weapons, specifically the forehand, as he displayed when stunning Nadal in the Madrid quarter-final. That win, according to three-times former champion Mats Wilander, should be all Thiem is thinking about when he prepares for Sunday's clash. "Forget the 10 (French Open titles) and forget what happened last year, Thiem has to remember what happened in Madrid which is a title Nadal wants to win almost as much as the French," Wilander, Eurosport's chief analyst, told Reuters. Wilander believes Thiem can worry Nadal if he is prepared to "take risks" like Diego Schwartzman did in the quarter-finals when he snapped the left-hander's run of 37 consecutive completed sets won at the French Open by snatching the opener. If not, it will be Goodnight Vienna for the man with one of the best single-handed backhands in tennis. "The only way to beat Rafa on clay is to take risks... to over-achieve you have to over-play and risk more than you feel comfortable doing," Wilander said. "If Thiem can do that and build enough hope in the first hour, hour and a half, maybe get the first set he can make it physical like he did in Madrid. I'm not sure if Thiem and Rafa had a run in the Bois de Boulogne that Rafa would win. "Thiem is an animal physically and in terms of hitting the ball hard on the forehand." Plenty have gone in with sound tactical plans against the 16-times Grand Slam champion in Paris but when the forehand bombardment begins, the best-laid plans usually fall apart as was the case in Friday's semi-final when Nadal thrashed Juan Martin del Potro who many thought posed a credible threat. "Rafa is a genius on clay, so far ahead tactically," Wilander said. "It's like he has a built-in coach in his mind. You can't tell what he's going to do before he does it, but when he does it, it all looks so obvious!" Thiem is looking to become only the second Austrian player -- man or woman -- to win a Grand Slam title after Thomas Muster's French Open victory in 1995. Nadal will retain the world number one ranking if he wins - but that will be the last thing on his mind.

French Open: Dominic Thiem or Rafael Nadal? Who will win the men's singles final

Sloane Stephens maintained her perfect record against fellow American Madison Keys as she blazed into the French Open final with a 6-4 6-4 win on Thursday in a repeat of last year's U.S. Open final.

In the first all-American Roland Garros semi-final since 2002, the 10th-seeded Stephens stayed composed throughout as Keys, who has not won a set against her in three meetings, peppered the court with unforced errors.

Stephens, who had never gone past the fourth round in Paris, will take on twice French Open runner-up and world number one Simona Halep of Romania in Saturday's final.

Regardless of the result, the 25-year-old Stephens will become the first American other than the Williams sisters break into the top five in the WTA rankings since Lindsay Davenport - Keys's coach - in 2006.

"It's always hard to play someone from your country and such a good friend, but I'm happy I played my tennis," Stephens said.

"This is one of my favourite tournaments and I'm looking forward to Saturday. Merci Paris, je t'aime.

"I love playing here. So like I said, making the quarter-finals here was a big deal for me. I was really pleased. And obviously making the semis and finals, there is not much more you can ask for in a player."

Next up is Halep, who has won their last four meetings but Stephens, who has a 6-0 win-loss record in finals, is feeling confident.

"I think that I have done really well, but I'd like to keep going," she said.

After a timid start, Stephens found her rhythm and took control of the opening set by breaking in the third game with a forehand winner down the line.

But Keys, who made 23 unforced errors in the first set, hit back hard and set up a break point at 3-2, only for Stephens to save it with a service return winner.

Stephens continued to dominate and broke in the first and seventh games of the second set to put herself in a position to serve for the match.

Keys briefly rallied to pull one break back, but Stephens did not waste her second opportunity, sealing victory on her first match point with a glorious backhand winner down the line.

Sloane Stephens defeated Madison Keys 6-4, 6-4 to enter the finals of this years's French Open

Sloane Stephens maintained her perfect record against fellow American Madison Keys as she blazed into the French Open final with a 6-4 6-4 win on Thursday in a repeat of last year's U.S. Open final. In the first all-American Roland Garros semi-final since 2002, the 10th-seeded Stephens stayed composed throughout as Keys, who has not won a set against her in three meetings, peppered the court with unforced errors. Stephens, who had never gone past the fourth round in Paris, will take on twice French Open runner-up and world number one Simona Halep of Romania in Saturday's final. Regardless of the result, the 25-year-old Stephens will become the first American other than the Williams sisters break into the top five in the WTA rankings since Lindsay Davenport - Keys's coach - in 2006. "It's always hard to play someone from your country and such a good friend, but I'm happy I played my tennis," Stephens said. "This is one of my favourite tournaments and I'm looking forward to Saturday. Merci Paris, je t'aime. "I love playing here. So like I said, making the quarter-finals here was a big deal for me. I was really pleased. And obviously making the semis and finals, there is not much more you can ask for in a player." Next up is Halep, who has won their last four meetings but Stephens, who has a 6-0 win-loss record in finals, is feeling confident. "I think that I have done really well, but I'd like to keep going," she said. After a timid start, Stephens found her rhythm and took control of the opening set by breaking in the third game with a forehand winner down the line. But Keys, who made 23 unforced errors in the first set, hit back hard and set up a break point at 3-2, only for Stephens to save it with a service return winner. Stephens continued to dominate and broke in the first and seventh games of the second set to put herself in a position to serve for the match. Keys briefly rallied to pull one break back, but Stephens did not waste her second opportunity, sealing victory on her first match point with a glorious backhand winner down the line.

French Open: Sloane Stephens beats fellow American Madison Keys to reach final

Top seed Simona Halep reached her third French Open final on Thursday with a 6-1, 6-4 victory over former champion Garbine Muguruza.

Halep, the runner-up in 2014 and 2017, will face either Sloane Stephens or Madison Keys in Saturday's final.

Her victory over third seed Muguruza also means she will retain the world number one ranking next week.

"I am really happy that I won the match, it was very important for my mind and I gave it all I had," said Romanian star Halep.

After racing through the first set, Halep saved three break points in a marathon ninth game of the second which lasted 13 minutes.

"I think I played one of my best matches on clay against a great opponent," added Halep, who will be appearing in her fourth final at the majors having also been beaten in Australia in January.

"I was 2-4 down in the second set but I knew I had to fight for every ball, push her back and play the way I did in the first set."

Halep has now defeated Muguruza in both their meetings on clay.

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“I am happy that I can have another chance to play the final here in my favorite Grand Slam. I will try my best.” 
 
-<a href="https://twitter.com/Simona_Halep?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Simona_Halep</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RG18?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RG18</a> <a href="https://t.co/aioFGdZ05n">pic.twitter.com/aioFGdZ05n</a>
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However, her sights now turn to the final where she is desperate to erase the memories of last year's horror show where she surrendered a set and a 3-0 lead to lose to Jelena Ostapenko.

"I have another chance to be in the final and hope to do better than last year."

Halep raced into a 5-0 lead in the first set against misfiring 2016 champion Muguruza who had blasted Maria Sharapova off court on Wednesday for the loss of just three games.

The 24-year-old Spaniard stopped the rot in the sixth game before Halep quickly reasserted her authority.

A sweeping, running forehand into an open court gave her the set with Muguruza having managed just two winners.

It was the first set that the Wimbledon champion had dropped at Roland Garros this year.

She also failed to win a single service game in the opener.

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Welcome back to the final, Simona. 
 
En route to her third career Roland-Garros final, <a href="https://twitter.com/Simona_Halep?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Simona_Halep</a> retains her World No.1 ranking as she defeats Garbine Muguruza 6-1 6-4.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RG18?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RG18</a> <a href="https://t.co/4Ryl1AKSQe">pic.twitter.com/4Ryl1AKSQe</a>
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/status/1004736599660343297?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Muguruza settled down in the second set, moving 2-0 ahead before Halep levelled in the eighth game.

That set the stage for the lengthy ninth game where Halep stood firm.

The spirit ebbed away from Muguruza, who converted just two of the eight break points she carved out, and a backhand which sailed long sealed her fate in the 10th game.

In Thursday's other semi-final, US Open champion Stephens will take on fellow American and close friend Keys who she beat 6-3, 6-0 in the final in New York last September.

"When we get on the court, it's time to compete. But before that, we are not going to be weird and awkward and make it, like, weird for each other," said Stephens, who was close to going out in the third round to Camila Giorgi before winning 8-6 in a deciding set.

It is the first time that two American women have reached the last four at Roland Garros since 2002, when Serena Williams beat sister Venus in the final, after a semi-final win over Jennifer Capriati.

Stephens, who is now into the semi-finals of a major for the third time, leads Keys 2-0 in head-to-heads but they have never met on clay.

Simona Halep reached her third French Open final with a 6-1, 6-4 victory over former champion Garbine Muguruza

Top seed Simona Halep reached her third French Open final on Thursday with a 6-1, 6-4 victory over former champion Garbine Muguruza. Halep, the runner-up in 2014 and 2017, will face either Sloane Stephens or Madison Keys in Saturday's final. Her victory over third seed Muguruza also means she will retain the world number one ranking next week. "I am really happy that I won the match, it was very important for my mind and I gave it all I had," said Romanian star Halep. After racing through the first set, Halep saved three break points in a marathon ninth game of the second which lasted 13 minutes. "I think I played one of my best matches on clay against a great opponent," added Halep, who will be appearing in her fourth final at the majors having also been beaten in Australia in January. "I was 2-4 down in the second set but I knew I had to fight for every ball, push her back and play the way I did in the first set." Halep has now defeated Muguruza in both their meetings on clay. “I am happy that I can have another chance to play the final here in my favorite Grand Slam. I will try my best.” -@Simona_Halep #RG18 pic.twitter.com/aioFGdZ05n — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 7, 2018 × However, her sights now turn to the final where she is desperate to erase the memories of last year's horror show where she surrendered a set and a 3-0 lead to lose to Jelena Ostapenko. "I have another chance to be in the final and hope to do better than last year." Halep raced into a 5-0 lead in the first set against misfiring 2016 champion Muguruza who had blasted Maria Sharapova off court on Wednesday for the loss of just three games. The 24-year-old Spaniard stopped the rot in the sixth game before Halep quickly reasserted her authority. A sweeping, running forehand into an open court gave her the set with Muguruza having managed just two winners. It was the first set that the Wimbledon champion had dropped at Roland Garros this year. She also failed to win a single service game in the opener. Welcome back to the final, Simona. En route to her third career Roland-Garros final, @Simona_Halep retains her World No.1 ranking as she defeats Garbine Muguruza 6-1 6-4.#RG18 pic.twitter.com/4Ryl1AKSQe — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 7, 2018 × Muguruza settled down in the second set, moving 2-0 ahead before Halep levelled in the eighth game. That set the stage for the lengthy ninth game where Halep stood firm. The spirit ebbed away from Muguruza, who converted just two of the eight break points she carved out, and a backhand which sailed long sealed her fate in the 10th game. In Thursday's other semi-final, US Open champion Stephens will take on fellow American and close friend Keys who she beat 6-3, 6-0 in the final in New York last September. "When we get on the court, it's time to compete. But before that, we are not going to be weird and awkward and make it, like, weird for each other," said Stephens, who was close to going out in the third round to Camila Giorgi before winning 8-6 in a deciding set. It is the first time that two American women have reached the last four at Roland Garros since 2002, when Serena Williams beat sister Venus in the final, after a semi-final win over Jennifer Capriati. Stephens, who is now into the semi-finals of a major for the third time, leads Keys 2-0 in head-to-heads but they have never met on clay.

World number 1 Simona Halep into third French Open final

Argentina's Juan Martin del Potro wept courtside after downing third seed Marin Cilic 7-6 (7/5), 5-7, 6-3, 7-5 on Thursday to set up a French Open semi-final clash with Rafael Nadal.

The injured-plagued former US Open champion battled through in three hours and 50 minutes after the match had been delayed by rain on Wednesday to reach the last four at Roland Garros for the second time, but first in nine years.

"It's tough to speak now," said an emotional Del Potro.

"I've been a long time without feeling good with my body. I had surgery three times on my wrist and I was close to quitting this sport. I don't have words to explain what this means to me and my team."

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"Of course the love from you guys, you make me feel so happy. I'm so proud to be here playing in front of you, I feel at home here. You make me feel so happy, so merci beaucoup."<a href="https://twitter.com/delpotrojuan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@delpotrojuan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RG18?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RG18</a> <a href="https://t.co/I9pkgt9jlx">pic.twitter.com/I9pkgt9jlx</a>
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The fifth seed has now beaten Cilic eight times in a row, but on Friday he will face arguably the toughest test in tennis when he takes on 10-time champion Nadal for a place in the final.

Argentina's Juan Martin del Potro defeated third seed Marin Cilic 7-6 (7/5), 5-7, 6-3, 7-5 to enter the semi-finals of this year's French Open

Argentina's Juan Martin del Potro wept courtside after downing third seed Marin Cilic 7-6 (7/5), 5-7, 6-3, 7-5 on Thursday to set up a French Open semi-final clash with Rafael Nadal. The injured-plagued former US Open champion battled through in three hours and 50 minutes after the match had been delayed by rain on Wednesday to reach the last four at Roland Garros for the second time, but first in nine years. "It's tough to speak now," said an emotional Del Potro. "I've been a long time without feeling good with my body. I had surgery three times on my wrist and I was close to quitting this sport. I don't have words to explain what this means to me and my team." "Of course the love from you guys, you make me feel so happy. I'm so proud to be here playing in front of you, I feel at home here. You make me feel so happy, so merci beaucoup."@delpotrojuan #RG18 pic.twitter.com/I9pkgt9jlx — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 7, 2018 × The fifth seed has now beaten Cilic eight times in a row, but on Friday he will face arguably the toughest test in tennis when he takes on 10-time champion Nadal for a place in the final.

French Open: Del Potro routs Marin Cilic to enter semi-final

Rafael Nadal bounced back came from a set down to beat Diego Schwartzman 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 in their rain-interrupted French Open quarter-final on Thursday on Court Philippe Chatrier.

The world number was trailing when the match was interrupted by rain yesterday but when the match started in bright sunshine, Nadal outplayed Schwartzman and romped through the next round of this year's French Open.

Nadal will face &nbspJuan Martin del Potro, the fifth-seeded Argentine, in the semi-finals.

"It was a very difficult match, Diego is a good friend and a good player," said the 16-time Grand Slam champion.

"After the stop for rain I played more aggressively and I'm very happy to be back in the semi-finals here."

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What a match. 
 
Thanks for the entertainment <a href="https://twitter.com/dieschwartzman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@dieschwartzman</a> & <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RG18?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RG18</a> <a href="https://t.co/RjmYpaINq4">pic.twitter.com/RjmYpaINq4</a>
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&nbsp

The world number one bounced back came from a set down to beat Diego Schwartzman 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 in their rain-interrupted French Open quarter-final

Rafael Nadal bounced back came from a set down to beat Diego Schwartzman 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 in their rain-interrupted French Open quarter-final on Thursday on Court Philippe Chatrier. The world number was trailing when the match was interrupted by rain yesterday but when the match started in bright sunshine, Nadal outplayed Schwartzman and romped through the next round of this year's French Open. Nadal will face &nbspJuan Martin del Potro, the fifth-seeded Argentine, in the semi-finals. "It was a very difficult match, Diego is a good friend and a good player," said the 16-time Grand Slam champion. "After the stop for rain I played more aggressively and I'm very happy to be back in the semi-finals here." What a match. Thanks for the entertainment @dieschwartzman & @RafaelNadal.#RG18 pic.twitter.com/RjmYpaINq4 — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 7, 2018 ×

French Open: Rafael Nadal beats Diego Schwartzman to enter semi-final

Unseeded Marco Cecchinato <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-marco-cecchinato-stuns-novak-djokovic-to-enter-semi-final-142475">defeated</a> 12-times major winner Novak Djokovic 6-3, 7-6(4), 1-6, 7-6(11) at the French Open on Tuesday to set up the semi-final clash with Dominic Thiem.

Although, Cecchinato suffered neck pain in the opening set but cruised through successfully and became the first Italian man to reach a Grand Slam semi-final in 40 years.

The last Italian man to take part in a major semi-final was Corrado Barazzutti at the 1978 French Open.

Semi-finalist Cecchinato <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-marco-cecchinato-stuns-novak-djokovic-to-enter-semi-final-142475">broke down in tears</a> after the match and said, "Am I dreaming? Maybe I'm sleeping? I don't understand nothing."

The defeat was almost like a shock to the former champion and 12-time winner Djokovic.

According to some media reports, the Serb was "super angry" while interacting with media and said, "I don't know if I'm going to play on the grass."

The former champion and 12-time winner Djokovic says, 'I don't know if I'm going to play on the grass'

Unseeded Marco Cecchinato defeated 12-times major winner Novak Djokovic 6-3, 7-6(4), 1-6, 7-6(11) at the French Open on Tuesday to set up the semi-final clash with Dominic Thiem. Although, Cecchinato suffered neck pain in the opening set but cruised through successfully and became the first Italian man to reach a Grand Slam semi-final in 40 years. The last Italian man to take part in a major semi-final was Corrado Barazzutti at the 1978 French Open. Semi-finalist Cecchinato broke down in tears after the match and said, "Am I dreaming? Maybe I'm sleeping? I don't understand nothing." The defeat was almost like a shock to the former champion and 12-time winner Djokovic. According to some media reports, the Serb was "super angry" while interacting with media and said, "I don't know if I'm going to play on the grass."

Novak Djokovic says he may skip Wimbledon after French Open ouster

Spanish tennis player Garbine Muguruza, world No. 3, won a decisive straight-set victory on Wednesday over Russia's Maria Sharapova 6-2, 6-1 and advanced to the French Open semifinals. 
 
In her first win in four career encounters, Muguruza needed just one hour and 10 minutes to eliminate two-time French Open champion Sharapova, world No. 30. 
 
For a shot at the final, the reigning Wimbledon title-holder is set to face world No. 1 Simona Halep of Romania, who beat Germany's Angelique Kerber 6-7 (2-7), 6-3, 6-2.

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Final four bound.<a href="https://twitter.com/GarbiMuguruza?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GarbiMuguruza</a> records her first career win over Maria Sharapova 6-2 6-1.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RG18?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RG18</a> <a href="https://t.co/HXtJGVWlDa">pic.twitter.com/HXtJGVWlDa</a>
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/status/1004353155822321665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-simonahalep-survives-grueling-battle-against-angelique-kerber-to-enter-semi-final-142680">French Open: Simona Halep survives </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-simonahalep-survives-grueling-battle-against-angelique-kerber-to-enter-semi-final-142680">grueling</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-simonahalep-survives-grueling-battle-against-angelique-kerber-to-enter-semi-final-142680"> battle against Angelique Kerber to enter </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-simonahalep-survives-grueling-battle-against-angelique-kerber-to-enter-semi-final-142680">semi-final</a>

With this victory - with world No. 2 Caroline Wozniacki's elimination in the last 16 round - Muguruza can take the top WTA position from Halep if she manages to reach the final in Paris.

Garbine Muguruza, world No. 3, won a decisive straight-set victory on Wednesday over Russia's Maria Sharapova 6-2, 6-1

Spanish tennis player Garbine Muguruza, world No. 3, won a decisive straight-set victory on Wednesday over Russia's Maria Sharapova 6-2, 6-1 and advanced to the French Open semifinals. In her first win in four career encounters, Muguruza needed just one hour and 10 minutes to eliminate two-time French Open champion Sharapova, world No. 30. For a shot at the final, the reigning Wimbledon title-holder is set to face world No. 1 Simona Halep of Romania, who beat Germany's Angelique Kerber 6-7 (2-7), 6-3, 6-2. Final four bound.@GarbiMuguruza records her first career win over Maria Sharapova 6-2 6-1.#RG18 pic.twitter.com/HXtJGVWlDa — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 6, 2018 × French Open: Simona Halep survives grueling battle against Angelique Kerber to enter semi-final With this victory - with world No. 2 Caroline Wozniacki's elimination in the last 16 round - Muguruza can take the top WTA position from Halep if she manages to reach the final in Paris.

French Open: Garbine Muguruza advances to semi-final after defeating Maria Sharapova

World number one&nbspSimona&nbspHalep&nbspwon a bruising quarter-final battle against Germany's Angelique Kerber 6-7(2) 6-3 6-2 to book a place against Garbine Muguruza in the French Open semis.

Halep&nbspstarted slowly, spraying shots wide as she lost the first four games of the match against the number 12 seed who hit her early groundstrokes with lethal accuracy.

But the Romanian clawed her way back into the contest, winning three straight games as both players struggled to hold on to their serves in a monster opening set that swung one way and then the next.

Kerber eventually prevailed in a tiebreak, but&nbspHalep&nbspcame out all guns blazing in the second, firing baseline bullets at her opponent, who tried to cling on against the onslaught.

But by the third set&nbspHalep&nbsphad broken down the German's defences -- and her resolve.

"It's always a tough match when I play against her. After the first set I just stayed strong and didn't give up,"&nbspHalep&nbsptold the court Suzanne Lenglen crowd in a post-match interview.

"I missed a lot in the beginning. I tried to do too much. I changed the tactics a bit and it worked."

World number one Simona Halep won a bruising quarter-final battle against Germany's Angelique Kerber 6-7(2) 6-3 6-2 to book a place against Garbine Muguruza in the French Open semis

World number one&nbspSimona&nbspHalep&nbspwon a bruising quarter-final battle against Germany's Angelique Kerber 6-7(2) 6-3 6-2 to book a place against Garbine Muguruza in the French Open semis. Halep&nbspstarted slowly, spraying shots wide as she lost the first four games of the match against the number 12 seed who hit her early groundstrokes with lethal accuracy. But the Romanian clawed her way back into the contest, winning three straight games as both players struggled to hold on to their serves in a monster opening set that swung one way and then the next. Kerber eventually prevailed in a tiebreak, but&nbspHalep&nbspcame out all guns blazing in the second, firing baseline bullets at her opponent, who tried to cling on against the onslaught. But by the third set&nbspHalep&nbsphad broken down the German's defences -- and her resolve. "It's always a tough match when I play against her. After the first set I just stayed strong and didn't give up,"&nbspHalep&nbsptold the court Suzanne Lenglen crowd in a post-match interview. "I missed a lot in the beginning. I tried to do too much. I changed the tactics a bit and it worked."

French Open: Simona Halep survives grueling battle against Angelique Kerber to enter semi-final

Novak Djokovic gave a bizarre press conference after facing the shocking defeat by world number 72 Marco Cecchinato 6-3, 7-6(4), 1-6, 7-6(11) at the French Open on Tuesday.

Unseeded Marco Cecchinato suffered neck pain in the opening set but cruised through successfully and became the first Italian man to reach a Grand Slam semi-final in 40 years. He will face Dominic Thiem in the semi-final.

The last Italian man to take part in a major semi-final was Corrado Barazzutti at the 1978 French Open.

After crashing out, admitted that he had been struggling with a niggling injury throughout the match, but he grew increasingly frustrated when questioned on his performance.

Most players at Roland Garros report to the main interview room where they interact win the media but Djokovic, on the contrary, went to the secondary room.

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"I'm back in the locker room. That's where I'm back", says a very upset Djokovic when asked if he could find solace in progress of past weeks. For those who don't seem to believe how hard Novak (logically) took this loss,u can hear by yourselves here: <a href="https://t.co/b2f9pXKp4m">https://t.co/b2f9pXKp4m</a> <a href="https://t.co/dlS6htVkeB">pic.twitter.com/dlS6htVkeB</a>
— Carole Bouchard (@carole_bouchard) <a href="https://twitter.com/carole_bouchard/status/1004082380309704704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
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According to some media reports, the Serb was "super angry" while interacting with media. He also cast doubt over said, "I don't know if I'm going to play on the grass."

Semi-finalist Cecchinato broke down in tears after the match and said, "Am I dreaming? Maybe I'm sleeping? I don't understand nothing."

The defeat was almost like a shock to the former champion and 12-time winner Djokovic.

After crashing out, admitted that he had been struggling with a niggling injury throughout the match

Novak Djokovic gave a bizarre press conference after facing the shocking defeat by world number 72 Marco Cecchinato 6-3, 7-6(4), 1-6, 7-6(11) at the French Open on Tuesday. Unseeded Marco Cecchinato suffered neck pain in the opening set but cruised through successfully and became the first Italian man to reach a Grand Slam semi-final in 40 years. He will face Dominic Thiem in the semi-final. The last Italian man to take part in a major semi-final was Corrado Barazzutti at the 1978 French Open. After crashing out, admitted that he had been struggling with a niggling injury throughout the match, but he grew increasingly frustrated when questioned on his performance. Most players at Roland Garros report to the main interview room where they interact win the media but Djokovic, on the contrary, went to the secondary room. "I'm back in the locker room. That's where I'm back", says a very upset Djokovic when asked if he could find solace in progress of past weeks. For those who don't seem to believe how hard Novak (logically) took this loss,u can hear by yourselves here: https://t.co/b2f9pXKp4m pic.twitter.com/dlS6htVkeB — Carole Bouchard (@carole_bouchard) June 5, 2018 × According to some media reports, the Serb was "super angry" while interacting with media. He also cast doubt over said, "I don't know if I'm going to play on the grass." Semi-finalist Cecchinato broke down in tears after the match and said, "Am I dreaming? Maybe I'm sleeping? I don't understand nothing." The defeat was almost like a shock to the former champion and 12-time winner Djokovic.

Watch: Bad tempered Djokovic gives bizarre press conference after French Open exit

Marco Cecchinato beat former champion and 12-times major winner&nbsp;Novak Djokovic 6-3 7-6(4) 1-6 7-6(11) at the French Open on Tuesday to become the first Italian man to reach a Grand Slam semi-final in 40 years.

Cecchinato cruised through the opening set as Djokovic was suffering from neck pain before the Serbian fought back after the loss of the second. His opponent, however, was the stronger in an epic fourth-set tiebreak, prevailing on his fourth match point.

The last Italian man to take part in a major semi-final was Corrado Barazzutti at the 1978 French Open.

The unseeded Cecchinato, who broke down in tears after the match, next faces Austrian Dominic Thiem for a place in Sunday's final.

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"Am I dreaming? Maybe I’m sleeping? I don't understand nothing." 
 
- Cecchinato<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RG18?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RG18</a> <a href="https://t.co/OMypEwXLAI">pic.twitter.com/OMypEwXLAI</a>
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Marco Cecchinato beat former champion and 12-times major winner Novak Djokovic 6-3 7-6(4) 1-6 7-6(11) at the French Open

Marco Cecchinato beat former champion and 12-times major winner Novak Djokovic 6-3 7-6(4) 1-6 7-6(11) at the French Open on Tuesday to become the first Italian man to reach a Grand Slam semi-final in 40 years. Cecchinato cruised through the opening set as Djokovic was suffering from neck pain before the Serbian fought back after the loss of the second. His opponent, however, was the stronger in an epic fourth-set tiebreak, prevailing on his fourth match point. The last Italian man to take part in a major semi-final was Corrado Barazzutti at the 1978 French Open. The unseeded Cecchinato, who broke down in tears after the match, next faces Austrian Dominic Thiem for a place in Sunday's final. "Am I dreaming? Maybe I’m sleeping? I don't understand nothing." - Cecchinato#RG18 pic.twitter.com/OMypEwXLAI — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 5, 2018 ×

French Open: Marco Cecchinato stuns Novak Djokovic to enter semi-final

Madison&nbsp;Keys reached her maiden French Open semi-final, rallying from a break down in the opening set to claim a solid 7-6(5) 6-4 victory against Kazakhstan's Yulia Putintseva on Tuesday.

The American 13th seed, playing in her third consecutive Grand Slam quarter-final, was 5-3 down in the first set when she stepped up a gear to advance without having lost a set.

She will take on either Russian Daria Kasatkina or 10th seed Sloane Stephens, nine months after her compatriot beat her in the U.S. Open final.

"Thank you everyone for coming and supporting me, I did need a lot of support today," said Keys.

"In the first set, I just needed to focus more and trust my game.

"I'm obviously very happy to win in straight sets again and I look forward to the next match."

In humid conditions on Court Suzanne Lenglen, both players were solid on their serve with no break points in the first six games.

The unseeded Putintseva, who played more safely, had the first break opportunity in the seventh game, which she converted when Keys buried a backhand into the net.

Keys, however, broke back for 5-5 with a stunning forehand winner down the line and the set would be decided in a tiebreak.

Putintseva, who was hoping to become the first Kazakh player -- female or male -- to qualify for a Grand Slam semi-final, opened up a 2-0 lead, only for the American to score four points in a row and take control.

Keys bagged the set at the end of a long rally in which her opponent defended ferociously, gradually stepping into the court to end the exchange with a backhand winner.

Keys had the first break chance in the second set and a lightning quick service return gave her the edge as she moved 4-3 up.

She held serve until the end, prevailing on her first match point thanks to a powerful ace.

Madison Keys will either play Russian Daria Kasatkina or 10th seed Sloane Stephens in the semi-final

Madison Keys reached her maiden French Open semi-final, rallying from a break down in the opening set to claim a solid 7-6(5) 6-4 victory against Kazakhstan's Yulia Putintseva on Tuesday. The American 13th seed, playing in her third consecutive Grand Slam quarter-final, was 5-3 down in the first set when she stepped up a gear to advance without having lost a set. She will take on either Russian Daria Kasatkina or 10th seed Sloane Stephens, nine months after her compatriot beat her in the U.S. Open final. "Thank you everyone for coming and supporting me, I did need a lot of support today," said Keys. "In the first set, I just needed to focus more and trust my game. "I'm obviously very happy to win in straight sets again and I look forward to the next match." In humid conditions on Court Suzanne Lenglen, both players were solid on their serve with no break points in the first six games. The unseeded Putintseva, who played more safely, had the first break opportunity in the seventh game, which she converted when Keys buried a backhand into the net. Keys, however, broke back for 5-5 with a stunning forehand winner down the line and the set would be decided in a tiebreak. Putintseva, who was hoping to become the first Kazakh player -- female or male -- to qualify for a Grand Slam semi-final, opened up a 2-0 lead, only for the American to score four points in a row and take control. Keys bagged the set at the end of a long rally in which her opponent defended ferociously, gradually stepping into the court to end the exchange with a backhand winner. Keys had the first break chance in the second set and a lightning quick service return gave her the edge as she moved 4-3 up. She held serve until the end, prevailing on her first match point thanks to a powerful ace.

French Open: Madison Keys reaches her first semi-final on Parisian clay

World number eight, Dominic Thiem defeated Alexander Zverev 6-4, 6-2, 6-1 to enter his third successive French Open semi-final on Tuesday at Philippe-Chatrier.

Thiem, the Austrian seventh seed forced Zverev to make four double faults and outplayed him in three sets after winning 6 breakpoints.&nbsp;

Zverev needed his left thigh strapped in the second set and looked disconsolate. Thiem widened his advantage with a clinical display of hitting as Austrian star was barely running for wide balls.

Dominic Thiem will either face 2016 champion and 12-time major winner Novak Djokovic or Italy's world number 72 Marco Cecchinato for a place in Sunday's final.

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Third straight Roland-Garros semi-final!<a href="https://twitter.com/ThiemDomi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ThiemDomi</a> roars past Zverev 6-4 6-2 6-1.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RG18?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RG18</a> <a href="https://t.co/HQoR1npf2m">pic.twitter.com/HQoR1npf2m</a>
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/status/1004001558101516288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Dominic Thiem defeated Alexander Zverev 6-4, 6-2, 6-1 to enter his third successive French Open semi-final

World number eight, Dominic Thiem defeated Alexander Zverev 6-4, 6-2, 6-1 to enter his third successive French Open semi-final on Tuesday at Philippe-Chatrier. Thiem, the Austrian seventh seed forced Zverev to make four double faults and outplayed him in three sets after winning 6 breakpoints. Zverev needed his left thigh strapped in the second set and looked disconsolate. Thiem widened his advantage with a clinical display of hitting as Austrian star was barely running for wide balls. Dominic Thiem will either face 2016 champion and 12-time major winner Novak Djokovic or Italy's world number 72 Marco Cecchinato for a place in Sunday's final. Third straight Roland-Garros semi-final!@ThiemDomi roars past Zverev 6-4 6-2 6-1.#RG18 pic.twitter.com/HQoR1npf2m — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 5, 2018 ×

French Open: Dominic Thiem eases past Alexander Zverev to enter semi-final

Rafael Nadal bt Maximilian Marterer, 6-3 6-2 7-6(4)

Rafael Nadal defeated&nbsp;a determined Maximilian Marterer 6-3 6-2 7-6(4) to enter into the&nbsp;French Open quarter-finals on Monday.

Nadal, who turned 32 on Sunday, fired 39 winners as he completed the victory in two hours and 30 minutes to set up a match with Argentine Diego Schwartzman, who had earlier beaten Kevin Anderson.

After roaring to a two-set lead, Nadal faced a stern test in the third with Marterer leading 3-1 at one point after breaking the Spaniard. The German battled for every point in a bid to drag himself back into the contest.

Nadal, however, maintained composure in the decisive moments of the match to seal victory on his second match point as Marterer's backhand went long.

Diego Schwartzman bt Kevin Anderson, 1-6, 2-6, 7-5, 7-6 (7/0), 6-2

Argentinian Diego Schwartzman staged a thrilling comeback from two sets down to stun sixth seed Kevin Anderson and reach the French Open quarter-finals for the first time on Monday.

The 11th seed was totally outplayed in the first two sets but twice broke Anderson when the South African was serving for the match en route to a 1-6, 2-6, 7-5, 7-6 (7/0), 6-2 victory.

The 25-year-old, who also reached the quarter-finals at last year's US Open, will face either 10-time champion Rafael Nadal or German Maximilian Marterer for a last-four place.

World number seven Anderson, who was looking to become the first South African man to make the last eight since Cliff Drysdale 51 years ago, has now lost in the fourth round at Roland Garros on four occasions.

Rafael Nadal will meet Diego Schwartzman in the quarter-final of this year's French Open

Rafael Nadal bt Maximilian Marterer, 6-3 6-2 7-6(4) Rafael Nadal defeated a determined Maximilian Marterer 6-3 6-2 7-6(4) to enter into the French Open quarter-finals on Monday. Nadal, who turned 32 on Sunday, fired 39 winners as he completed the victory in two hours and 30 minutes to set up a match with Argentine Diego Schwartzman, who had earlier beaten Kevin Anderson. After roaring to a two-set lead, Nadal faced a stern test in the third with Marterer leading 3-1 at one point after breaking the Spaniard. The German battled for every point in a bid to drag himself back into the contest. Nadal, however, maintained composure in the decisive moments of the match to seal victory on his second match point as Marterer's backhand went long. Diego Schwartzman bt Kevin Anderson, 1-6, 2-6, 7-5, 7-6 (7/0), 6-2 Argentinian Diego Schwartzman staged a thrilling comeback from two sets down to stun sixth seed Kevin Anderson and reach the French Open quarter-finals for the first time on Monday. The 11th seed was totally outplayed in the first two sets but twice broke Anderson when the South African was serving for the match en route to a 1-6, 2-6, 7-5, 7-6 (7/0), 6-2 victory. The 25-year-old, who also reached the quarter-finals at last year's US Open, will face either 10-time champion Rafael Nadal or German Maximilian Marterer for a last-four place. World number seven Anderson, who was looking to become the first South African man to make the last eight since Cliff Drysdale 51 years ago, has now lost in the fourth round at Roland Garros on four occasions.

French Open: Rafael Nadal, Diego Schwartzman set-up quarter-final clash

American Serena Williams withdrew from the French Open on Monday, shortly before she was due on court to face Maria Sharapova in a much-anticipated fourth-round showdown.

The 36-year-old 23-times Grand Slam champion, making a comeback after a maternity break, told a news conference she had a pectoral muscle injury.

"Unfortunately I'm having some issues with my pec muscle.

Right now I can't actually serve, it's kind of hard to play," she said.

"I'm having an MRI (scan) tomorrow, I'm going to stay here to see the doctors and see as many specialists as I can. I won't know (how serious the injury is) until I get those results."

Williams had worked hard to get back in shape and was making her Grand Slam comeback at the French Open following the birth of her daughter Alexis Olympia last September.

"Physically I'm doing great. It hasn't been easy. I sacrificed so much to be at this event. I'm going to continue to get better. I had such a wonderful performance in my first Grand Slam back," she added.

'Unfortunately I'm having some issues with my pec muscle. Right now I can't actually serve, it's kind of hard to play,' said Serena

American Serena Williams withdrew from the French Open on Monday, shortly before she was due on court to face Maria Sharapova in a much-anticipated fourth-round showdown. The 36-year-old 23-times Grand Slam champion, making a comeback after a maternity break, told a news conference she had a pectoral muscle injury. "Unfortunately I'm having some issues with my pec muscle. Right now I can't actually serve, it's kind of hard to play," she said. "I'm having an MRI (scan) tomorrow, I'm going to stay here to see the doctors and see as many specialists as I can. I won't know (how serious the injury is) until I get those results." Williams had worked hard to get back in shape and was making her Grand Slam comeback at the French Open following the birth of her daughter Alexis Olympia last September. "Physically I'm doing great. It hasn't been easy. I sacrificed so much to be at this event. I'm going to continue to get better. I had such a wonderful performance in my first Grand Slam back," she added.

French Open: Serena Williams pulls out before Sharapova match

Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova's game is one of the most celebrated rivalries in the world of Tennis.&nbsp;

And once again, the two will lock horns in the fourth round of the French Open on Monday, in their first match since the 2016 Australian Open.

Williams has won their last 18 meetings, with Sharapova's only two victories coming in 2004.

Speaking on her rivalry, William's said she does not have any negative feelings towards Maria Sharapova and is surprised the Russian's recent autobiography was so much about her.

The 23 Grand Slam described the book as 100% hearsay and said women should encourage each other rather than detailing locker-room incidents in a less than positive light.

"I think the book was 100% hearsay, which was a little bit disappointing," she said. I have cried in the locker room many times after a loss, and that's what I have seen a lot of people do."

"I think it's normal. I think if anything, it shows the passion and the desire and, you know, the will that you have to want to go out there and do the best. I think what happens there should definitely maybe stay there and not necessarily talk about it in a not-so-positive way in a book.

"I don't have any negative feelings towards her, which again, was a little disappointing to see in that hearsay book. A lot of people always assume that I feel a different way and it's not true.

Williams and Sharapova have won five French Open singles titles between them, and both have played extremely well over the first three rounds at Roland Garros.

Williams' biggest concern may be a lack of matches. The French Open marks only her third competitive appearance since the 2017 Australian Open, which was her last tournament before becoming a mother in September.

Williams has won their last 18 meetings, with Sharapova's only two victories coming in 2004.

Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova's game is one of the most celebrated rivalries in the world of Tennis. And once again, the two will lock horns in the fourth round of the French Open on Monday, in their first match since the 2016 Australian Open. Williams has won their last 18 meetings, with Sharapova's only two victories coming in 2004. Speaking on her rivalry, William's said she does not have any negative feelings towards Maria Sharapova and is surprised the Russian's recent autobiography was so much about her. The 23 Grand Slam described the book as 100% hearsay and said women should encourage each other rather than detailing locker-room incidents in a less than positive light. "I think the book was 100% hearsay, which was a little bit disappointing," she said. I have cried in the locker room many times after a loss, and that's what I have seen a lot of people do." "I think it's normal. I think if anything, it shows the passion and the desire and, you know, the will that you have to want to go out there and do the best. I think what happens there should definitely maybe stay there and not necessarily talk about it in a not-so-positive way in a book. "I don't have any negative feelings towards her, which again, was a little disappointing to see in that hearsay book. A lot of people always assume that I feel a different way and it's not true. Williams and Sharapova have won five French Open singles titles between them, and both have played extremely well over the first three rounds at Roland Garros. Williams' biggest concern may be a lack of matches. The French Open marks only her third competitive appearance since the 2017 Australian Open, which was her last tournament before becoming a mother in September.

French Open: Serena Williams to play Maria Sharapova in 4th round today

Simona Halep bt Elise Mertens, 6-2 6-1

World number one Simona Halep blazed into the French Open quarter-finals by crushing Belgian Elise Mertens 6-2 6-1 as she showed her full range of weapons on Monday.

Romanian Halep, twice a runner-up at Roland Garros, started slowly but once she found her groove, there was nothing the 16th seed could do to avoid a one-sided defeat.

Halep won the last nine games on Court Philippe Chatrier to set up a meeting with either German Angelique Kerber or local favourite Caroline Garcia.

Daria Kasatkina bt Caroline Wozniacki, 7-6(5) 6-3

World number two Caroline Wozniacki on Monday as Russian Daria Kasatkina completed a 7-6(5) 6-3 victory to reach the fourth round of the French Open. The match was suspended for some time.

Kasatkina, the 14th seed, had played beautifully to lead 7-6 3-3 on Sunday when play was called off but any hopes Australian Open champion Wozniacki harboured that her 21-year-old opponent's level would dip on the resumption proved fanciful.

It was all over in a matter of minutes on Court Philippe Chatrier as Kasatkina rattled off the three games she needed to reach her first Grand Slam quarter-final.

World number one Simona Halep blazed into the French Open quarter-finals by crushing Belgian Elise Mertens 6-2 6-1

Simona Halep bt Elise Mertens, 6-2 6-1 World number one Simona Halep blazed into the French Open quarter-finals by crushing Belgian Elise Mertens 6-2 6-1 as she showed her full range of weapons on Monday. Romanian Halep, twice a runner-up at Roland Garros, started slowly but once she found her groove, there was nothing the 16th seed could do to avoid a one-sided defeat. Halep won the last nine games on Court Philippe Chatrier to set up a meeting with either German Angelique Kerber or local favourite Caroline Garcia. Daria Kasatkina bt Caroline Wozniacki, 7-6(5) 6-3 World number two Caroline Wozniacki on Monday as Russian Daria Kasatkina completed a 7-6(5) 6-3 victory to reach the fourth round of the French Open. The match was suspended for some time. Kasatkina, the 14th seed, had played beautifully to lead 7-6 3-3 on Sunday when play was called off but any hopes Australian Open champion Wozniacki harboured that her 21-year-old opponent's level would dip on the resumption proved fanciful. It was all over in a matter of minutes on Court Philippe Chatrier as Kasatkina rattled off the three games she needed to reach her first Grand Slam quarter-final.

French Open: Simona Halep, Daria Kasatkina enter quater-finals

German second seed Alexander Zverev and Novak Djokovic have entered the quarter-finals after defeating Karen Khachanov and Fernando Verdasco respectively in the round of 16 on Sunday.&nbsp;

Although, the 21-year-old Zverev survived in a five-set match and claimed his third successive comeback win to reach his first Grand Slam quarter-final, beating Russian Khachanov 4-6, 7-6 (7/4), 2-6, 6-3, 6-3.

"Well, I'm young, so I might as well stay on court, get some practice and entertain you guys," said Zverev after winning the match.

On the other hand, Djokovic registered an easy win against Spanish veteran Verdasco 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 and will play in the last eight at Roland Garros for a record 12th time.

Zverev will meet Dominic Thiem in the quarter-finals and Novak Djokovic will face Marco Cecchinato in the quarter-final of this year's French Open.

Zverev will meet Dominic Thiem and Novak Djokovic will face Marco Cecchinato in the quarter-final of this year's French Open

German second seed Alexander Zverev and Novak Djokovic have entered the quarter-finals after defeating Karen Khachanov and Fernando Verdasco respectively in the round of 16 on Sunday. Although, the 21-year-old Zverev survived in a five-set match and claimed his third successive comeback win to reach his first Grand Slam quarter-final, beating Russian Khachanov 4-6, 7-6 (7/4), 2-6, 6-3, 6-3. "Well, I'm young, so I might as well stay on court, get some practice and entertain you guys," said Zverev after winning the match. On the other hand, Djokovic registered an easy win against Spanish veteran Verdasco 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 and will play in the last eight at Roland Garros for a record 12th time. Zverev will meet Dominic Thiem in the quarter-finals and Novak Djokovic will face Marco Cecchinato in the quarter-final of this year's French Open.

French Open: Alexander Zverev, Novak Djokovic advance to quarter-finals of men's singles

Dominic Thiem bt Kei Nishikori 6-2, 6-0, 5-7, 6-4

Austrian seventh seed Dominic Thiem reached his third successive French Open quarter-final on Sunday with a 6-2, 6-0, 5-7, 6-4 win over Japan's Kei Nishikori.

Thiem, the only man to defeat 10-time Roland Garros champion Rafael Nadal on clay this year, will face German second seed Alexander Zverev for a place in the semi-finals.

Sunday's win for 24-year-old Thiem was his first over Japanese 19th seed Nishikori who had won their previous matches on grass at Halle in 2015 and on clay in Rome in 2016.

Marco Cecchinato bt David Goffin 7-5, 4-6, 6-0, 6-3

Italian world number 72 Marco Cecchinato hailed "the best moment" of his life after beating David Goffin 7-5, 4-6, 6-0, 6-3 to reach the French Open quarter-finals on Sunday, just two years since being embroiled in a match-fixing scandal.

Cecchinato, who was suspended for 18 months by the Italian tennis federation in July 2016 for fixing before later being cleared of any wrongdoing, will next face 12-time Grand Slam champion and his former practice partner Novak Djokovic.

The 25-year-old had never won a Grand Slam match before this tournament but showed some good form when winning an ATP clay-court title in Budapest as a lucky loser earlier this year.

Dominic Thiem and Marco Cecchinato will meet Alexander Zverev and Novak Djokovic in the quarter-finals of French Open

Dominic Thiem bt Kei Nishikori 6-2, 6-0, 5-7, 6-4 Austrian seventh seed Dominic Thiem reached his third successive French Open quarter-final on Sunday with a 6-2, 6-0, 5-7, 6-4 win over Japan's Kei Nishikori. Thiem, the only man to defeat 10-time Roland Garros champion Rafael Nadal on clay this year, will face German second seed Alexander Zverev for a place in the semi-finals. Sunday's win for 24-year-old Thiem was his first over Japanese 19th seed Nishikori who had won their previous matches on grass at Halle in 2015 and on clay in Rome in 2016. Marco Cecchinato bt David Goffin 7-5, 4-6, 6-0, 6-3 Italian world number 72 Marco Cecchinato hailed "the best moment" of his life after beating David Goffin 7-5, 4-6, 6-0, 6-3 to reach the French Open quarter-finals on Sunday, just two years since being embroiled in a match-fixing scandal. Cecchinato, who was suspended for 18 months by the Italian tennis federation in July 2016 for fixing before later being cleared of any wrongdoing, will next face 12-time Grand Slam champion and his former practice partner Novak Djokovic. The 25-year-old had never won a Grand Slam match before this tournament but showed some good form when winning an ATP clay-court title in Budapest as a lucky loser earlier this year.

Dominic Thiem and Marco Cecchinato enter the quarter-finals of French Open

When Serena Williams rushed towards the net to smash the ball away with all her might, the tremors felt all around Suzanne Lenglen Court on Saturday signalled only one thing -- she was back in town to shake things up at the French Open.

Williams, playing in her first major since the birth of her daughter Alexis Olympia last September, had not been at her intimidating best in her previous two matches at Roland Garros this week.

But if her third-round opponent Julia Goerges had hopes of finishing off a job that was ultimately beyond Australian 17th seed Ashleigh Barty, who folded despite being a set and a break up against Williams in round two, it did not take long for reality to sink in.&nbsp

Williams took only 75 minutes to deliver the knockout punch that flattened the German 11th seed 6-3 6-4 and set up a heavyweight fourth-round showdown with Maria Sharapova.

"I feel like every match I play I`m getting better. I`m playing tougher opponents and I`m hanging in there," said Williams, whose trophy collection includes three Suzanne Lenglen Cups.&nbsp

"There is still a way to go but it`s moving in the right direction. It`s going to hopefully keep going."

After such an impressive performance it is now not inconceivable that come next Saturday she will be celebrating a fourth triumph in Paris and cementing her place alongside Margaret Court as the holder of a record 24 Grand Slam titles.

Just seven matches into her comeback following her maternity break, Williams impressed all those watching on the 10,000-seater arena -- including former boxing champion Mike Tyson -- by pulverising her opponent.

Five games after she broke for a 3-1 lead with a blazing crosscourt winner, Williams belted the furry yellow ball with so much fury into Goerges`s half of the court that it rebounded high into the stands.

Williams, though, did not linger about to track the disfigured ball`s final destination as that shot had sealed her the set.&nbsp

Goerges broke the 23-times Grand Slam champion in the fourth game of the second set to get back on level terms at 2-2 but her moment in the spotlight was fleeting as she dropped serve in the very next game.

Williams, whom the rankings state is only the 451st best player in the world, showed what she is made of as she roared on to an easy victory and booked her place in the Paris fourth round for the 12th time.

After reaching the last 16 of a major for the first time as a mother, Williams was all smiles.

"It`s really special to be here again. This time last year I was pregnant and I was having a tough time and then I had a tough birth so every match at this stage of my return is a bonus," said Williams, who suffered multiple complications following the birth of her daughter.

It was clear that finishing a tennis match quickly had another advantage.

"I think sometimes the sooner I get off, the sooner I can get to her (Alexis Olympia)," she added when asked if she starts thinking about her daughter mid-match.

"No matter what happens, I have an amazing human being that I love so much that I can go home to, and I can just be joyful with."&nbsp

Williams had not been at her intimidating best in her previous two matches at Roland Garros

When Serena Williams rushed towards the net to smash the ball away with all her might, the tremors felt all around Suzanne Lenglen Court on Saturday signalled only one thing -- she was back in town to shake things up at the French Open. Williams, playing in her first major since the birth of her daughter Alexis Olympia last September, had not been at her intimidating best in her previous two matches at Roland Garros this week. But if her third-round opponent Julia Goerges had hopes of finishing off a job that was ultimately beyond Australian 17th seed Ashleigh Barty, who folded despite being a set and a break up against Williams in round two, it did not take long for reality to sink in. Williams took only 75 minutes to deliver the knockout punch that flattened the German 11th seed 6-3 6-4 and set up a heavyweight fourth-round showdown with Maria Sharapova. "I feel like every match I play I`m getting better. I`m playing tougher opponents and I`m hanging in there," said Williams, whose trophy collection includes three Suzanne Lenglen Cups. "There is still a way to go but it`s moving in the right direction. It`s going to hopefully keep going." After such an impressive performance it is now not inconceivable that come next Saturday she will be celebrating a fourth triumph in Paris and cementing her place alongside Margaret Court as the holder of a record 24 Grand Slam titles. Just seven matches into her comeback following her maternity break, Williams impressed all those watching on the 10,000-seater arena -- including former boxing champion Mike Tyson -- by pulverising her opponent. Five games after she broke for a 3-1 lead with a blazing crosscourt winner, Williams belted the furry yellow ball with so much fury into Goerges`s half of the court that it rebounded high into the stands. Williams, though, did not linger about to track the disfigured ball`s final destination as that shot had sealed her the set. Goerges broke the 23-times Grand Slam champion in the fourth game of the second set to get back on level terms at 2-2 but her moment in the spotlight was fleeting as she dropped serve in the very next game. Williams, whom the rankings state is only the 451st best player in the world, showed what she is made of as she roared on to an easy victory and booked her place in the Paris fourth round for the 12th time. After reaching the last 16 of a major for the first time as a mother, Williams was all smiles. "It`s really special to be here again. This time last year I was pregnant and I was having a tough time and then I had a tough birth so every match at this stage of my return is a bonus," said Williams, who suffered multiple complications following the birth of her daughter. It was clear that finishing a tennis match quickly had another advantage. "I think sometimes the sooner I get off, the sooner I can get to her (Alexis Olympia)," she added when asked if she starts thinking about her daughter mid-match. "No matter what happens, I have an amazing human being that I love so much that I can go home to, and I can just be joyful with."

Serena Williams proves she is back to shake up Roland Garros

The Indo-French pair of Rohan Bopanna and Edouard Roger-Vasselin entered the men's doubles quarter-finals of the French Open.

The 13th seeded pair defeated top-seeded Brazilian-Polish combo of Marcelo Melo and Lukasz Kubot 6-4, 7-6 (1) in the one-hour-30-minute third round affair.

The duo will now be up against Nikola Mektic and Alexander Peya for a place in the semi-finals.

Bopanna had twice reached the quarter-final stage at Roland Garros in 2011 and 2016.

The 13th seeded pair defeated top-seeded Brazilian-Polish combo of Marcelo Melo and Lukasz Kubot 6-4, 7-6 (1)

The Indo-French pair of Rohan Bopanna and Edouard Roger-Vasselin entered the men's doubles quarter-finals of the French Open. The 13th seeded pair defeated top-seeded Brazilian-Polish combo of Marcelo Melo and Lukasz Kubot 6-4, 7-6 (1) in the one-hour-30-minute third round affair. The duo will now be up against Nikola Mektic and Alexander Peya for a place in the semi-finals. Bopanna had twice reached the quarter-final stage at Roland Garros in 2011 and 2016.

French Open: Bopanna-Edouard advance to quarter-finals at Roland Garros

United States 13th seed Madison Keys defeated Romania's Mihaela Buzarnescu 6-1, 6-4 on Sunday to enter the quarter-finals of the French Open for the first time in her career.

The match lasted for 65 minutes and former US Open finalist, Madison Keys dominated the match against Mihaela Buzarnescu in which the Romanian made 11 unforced errors in the first set and 16 in the second.

Keys will face either Czech 26th seed Barbora Strycova or Yulia Putintseva, the 98th-ranked Kazakh, for a place in the semi-finals.

The 23-year-old American has now reached at least the last-eight of all four majors and has not lost a single set in this year's French Open.

Madison Keys has not lost a single set in this year's French Open

United States 13th seed Madison Keys defeated Romania's Mihaela Buzarnescu 6-1, 6-4 on Sunday to enter the quarter-finals of the French Open for the first time in her career. The match lasted for 65 minutes and former US Open finalist, Madison Keys dominated the match against Mihaela Buzarnescu in which the Romanian made 11 unforced errors in the first set and 16 in the second. Keys will face either Czech 26th seed Barbora Strycova or Yulia Putintseva, the 98th-ranked Kazakh, for a place in the semi-finals. The 23-year-old American has now reached at least the last-eight of all four majors and has not lost a single set in this year's French Open.

French Open: Madison Keys beats Mihaela Buzarnescu to enter quarter-finals for the first time

Top seed Simona Halep maintained her steady progress through the French Open draw when she beat Germany`s Andrea Petkovic 7-5 6-0 to reach the fourth round on Saturday.

Relegated to the new Court 18 for the day, the Romanian, twice runner-up, had to battle for an hour to take the opening set but sped through the second with a minimum of fuss.

Petkovic, a semi-finalist in 2014 but now ranked 107, injured her knee at the start of the second set and needed it taped up during a lengthy medical timeout.

She ripped off the tape a few games later and was clearly not the same player as in the opener as Halep delighted her noisy fans wedged in around the court with a commanding display.

The end came quickly and she finished it off with a backhand winner, setting up a clash with 16th seed Elise Mertens.

"I can say that today I really felt the ball, and the way that I finished pretty strong gives me confidence. I can say it was the best match here at this tournament," Halep said.

It was highly unusual for a top seed and world number one to be placed on an outside court, albeit an atmospheric one, and Halep said it had taken her a while to get used to the setting, having played her two previous matches on Court Philippe Chatrier.

"Today was a little bit different, because the court is pretty small, and I felt that all the people were on court with me," the 26-year-old said.

"So it was tough to adjust myself, coming from Chatrier it`s a bit difficult. But I just needed a few games and then I think I played okay. I think I played well.

"I practised there last week so all good."

The Romanian had to battle for an hour to take the opening set

Top seed Simona Halep maintained her steady progress through the French Open draw when she beat Germany`s Andrea Petkovic 7-5 6-0 to reach the fourth round on Saturday. Relegated to the new Court 18 for the day, the Romanian, twice runner-up, had to battle for an hour to take the opening set but sped through the second with a minimum of fuss. Petkovic, a semi-finalist in 2014 but now ranked 107, injured her knee at the start of the second set and needed it taped up during a lengthy medical timeout. She ripped off the tape a few games later and was clearly not the same player as in the opener as Halep delighted her noisy fans wedged in around the court with a commanding display. The end came quickly and she finished it off with a backhand winner, setting up a clash with 16th seed Elise Mertens. "I can say that today I really felt the ball, and the way that I finished pretty strong gives me confidence. I can say it was the best match here at this tournament," Halep said. It was highly unusual for a top seed and world number one to be placed on an outside court, albeit an atmospheric one, and Halep said it had taken her a while to get used to the setting, having played her two previous matches on Court Philippe Chatrier. "Today was a little bit different, because the court is pretty small, and I felt that all the people were on court with me," the 26-year-old said. "So it was tough to adjust myself, coming from Chatrier it`s a bit difficult. But I just needed a few games and then I think I played okay. I think I played well. "I practised there last week so all good."

French Open: Halep subdues Petkovic after tight early tussle

Novak Djokovic reached the last 16 at the French Open after defeating Spanish 13th seed Roberto Bautista Agut and the Serbian celebrated the win in his own way.

The 12-time Grand Slam champion took to his Twitter to post a video of himself dancing in celebration. The 31-year-old threw some serious shapes in front of the camera before he turned around to shake his backside to the beat of the music.

Djokovic captioned the video: “Post match celebration (sic) @daddy_yankee” - tagging in the artist of the song ‘Dura’, which is played in the background.

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Post match celebration ? <a href="https://twitter.com/daddy_yankee?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@daddy_yankee</a> <a href="https://t.co/DQpWjMaZR5">pic.twitter.com/DQpWjMaZR5</a>
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Djokovic was unconvincing as he beat Bautista Agut over four sets.&nbsp

He won the first set but then suffered a tie-break defeat in the second - moments after he smashed up his racket in frustration to losing a point.

The former world No 1 recovered to take the third and fourth set to take one step closer to his first Grand Slam title in over two years.

A last-16 tie with Fernando Verdasco now awaits on Sunday but Djokovic will spend the next day relaxing after a four-hour gruelling battle. 
&nbsp

The 12-time Grand Slam champion took to his Twitter to post a video of himself dancing in celebration

Novak Djokovic reached the last 16 at the French Open after defeating Spanish 13th seed Roberto Bautista Agut and the Serbian celebrated the win in his own way. The 12-time Grand Slam champion took to his Twitter to post a video of himself dancing in celebration. The 31-year-old threw some serious shapes in front of the camera before he turned around to shake his backside to the beat of the music. Djokovic captioned the video: “Post match celebration (sic) @daddy_yankee” - tagging in the artist of the song ‘Dura’, which is played in the background. Post match celebration ? @daddy_yankee pic.twitter.com/DQpWjMaZR5 — Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) June 1, 2018 × Djokovic was unconvincing as he beat Bautista Agut over four sets. He won the first set but then suffered a tie-break defeat in the second - moments after he smashed up his racket in frustration to losing a point. The former world No 1 recovered to take the third and fourth set to take one step closer to his first Grand Slam title in over two years. A last-16 tie with Fernando Verdasco now awaits on Sunday but Djokovic will spend the next day relaxing after a four-hour gruelling battle.

Watch: Novak Djokovic celebrates French Open 3rd round win by dancing

Italian Tennis player Fabio Fognini survived a five-set thriller against British number one Kyle Edmund to reach the fourth round of the French Open on Saturday. &nbsp;

Edmund lost 6-3 4-6 3-6 6-4 6-4 in a fluctuating contest with the 18th seed at Roland Garros.

Edmund's level also fluctuated throughout the three-hour 34 minute contest in which both players needed medical timeouts.

The 23-year-old Edmund has reached his first Grand Slam semi-final and broken into the world's top 20 for the first time this year.

But the 16th seed could not break new ground on his preferred surface.

Fognini, 31, will play either Croatian third seed Marin Cilic or American Steve Johnson in the fourth round. 
&nbsp;

Edmund lost 6-3 4-6 3-6 6-4 6-4 in a fluctuating contest with the 18th seed

Italian Tennis player Fabio Fognini survived a five-set thriller against British number one Kyle Edmund to reach the fourth round of the French Open on Saturday. Edmund lost 6-3 4-6 3-6 6-4 6-4 in a fluctuating contest with the 18th seed at Roland Garros. Edmund's level also fluctuated throughout the three-hour 34 minute contest in which both players needed medical timeouts. The 23-year-old Edmund has reached his first Grand Slam semi-final and broken into the world's top 20 for the first time this year. But the 16th seed could not break new ground on his preferred surface. Fognini, 31, will play either Croatian third seed Marin Cilic or American Steve Johnson in the fourth round.

French Open: Fognini beats Kyle Edmund to reach last 16 at Roland Garros

Czech eighth seed Petra Kvitova was knocked out of the French Open by Estonia’s Anett Kontaveit on Saturday.

Kontaveit won 7-6(6) 7-6(4) to reach the fourth round for the first time.

Two-time Wimbledon champion Kvitova made 57 unforced errors and served 10 double faults in an erratic display that saw her 13-match winning streak come to an end.

Kvitova bounded into a 3-1 lead but it was clear that Kontaveit was not going to be a pushover as the Estonian forged 5-3 in front only to be forced into a tiebreak.

Seeded 25 in Paris, the 22-year-old Kontaveit will face either Italian Camila Giorgi or US Open champion Sloane Stephens in the last 16 as she looks to reach her first Grand Slam quarter-final.

Kontaveit won 7-6(6) 7-6(4) to reach the fourth round for the first time.

Czech eighth seed Petra Kvitova was knocked out of the French Open by Estonia’s Anett Kontaveit on Saturday. Kontaveit won 7-6(6) 7-6(4) to reach the fourth round for the first time. Two-time Wimbledon champion Kvitova made 57 unforced errors and served 10 double faults in an erratic display that saw her 13-match winning streak come to an end. Kvitova bounded into a 3-1 lead but it was clear that Kontaveit was not going to be a pushover as the Estonian forged 5-3 in front only to be forced into a tiebreak. Seeded 25 in Paris, the 22-year-old Kontaveit will face either Italian Camila Giorgi or US Open champion Sloane Stephens in the last 16 as she looks to reach her first Grand Slam quarter-final.

French Open: Petra Kvitova knocked out by Kontaveit

Former champion Garbine Muguruza defeated Australia's Sam Stosur by a comfortable 6-0, 6-2 margin to reach the French open last 16 on Saturday.

The 2016 winner in Paris and the reigning Wimbledon champion, Muguruza fired 15 winners past Stosur.

The third seed did not waste much time on Court Philippe Chatrier allowing Stosur only 10 points in the opening set. Muguruza opened up a 2-0 lead in the second set but Stosur briefly fought back.

The Australian levelled for 2-2 but that effort cost her dearly as Muguruza bagged the remaining four games to secure a victory.

"I knew this would be very tough against a former US Open winner and a player who has made the final here," said 24-year-old Muguruza. "If I didn't play my best tennis, I realised that it would be very hard.

"Coming back here to Court Philippe Chatrier where I won two years ago always brings special feelings inside me."

She will now face either Magdalena Rybarikova or Lesia Tsurenko in the fourth round.&nbsp

Former champion Garbine Muguruza defeated Australia's Sam Stosur by a comfortable 6-0, 6-2 margin to reach the French open last 16 on Saturday. The 2016 winner in Paris and the reigning Wimbledon champion, Muguruza fired 15 winners past Stosur. The third seed did not waste much time on Court Philippe Chatrier allowing Stosur only 10 points in the opening set. Muguruza opened up a 2-0 lead in the second set but Stosur briefly fought back. The Australian levelled for 2-2 but that effort cost her dearly as Muguruza bagged the remaining four games to secure a victory. "I knew this would be very tough against a former US Open winner and a player who has made the final here," said 24-year-old Muguruza. "If I didn't play my best tennis, I realised that it would be very hard. "Coming back here to Court Philippe Chatrier where I won two years ago always brings special feelings inside me." She will now face either Magdalena Rybarikova or Lesia Tsurenko in the fourth round.

French Open: Former champion Garbine Muguruza advances to 4th round

After a gruelling four-hour match against Spanish 13th seed Roberto Bautista Agut, Novak Djokovic managed to reach the last 16 at the French Open.

The 12-time Grand Slam champion was given his toughest test this year but won 6-4 6-7 (6-8) 7-6 (7-4) 6-2 after three hours and 48 minutes.

During the game, there came a point when after losing a point during the tiebreaker in the second set, Djokovic angrily whacked his racket into the clay. He regained his composure and broke the 13th-seeded Bautista Agut's serve early in the fourth set to take control.

Alexander Zverev was pushed to a fifth set for a second consecutive match at the French Open, but the No. 2 seed again survived.

Djokovic improved to 7-1 against Bautista Agut. He will next play another Spanish player, Fernando Verdasco.

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Djokovic, who underwent right elbow surgery earlier this year, is the 20th-seeded player in Paris, his lowest Grand Slam seeding since the 2006 US Open. He arrived at Roland Garros with a 10-7 record this season.

He won the last of his 12 Grand Slam titles at Roland Garros two years ago.

It was a gruelling four-hour match against Spanish 13th seed Roberto Bautista Agut

After a gruelling four-hour match against Spanish 13th seed Roberto Bautista Agut, Novak Djokovic managed to reach the last 16 at the French Open. The 12-time Grand Slam champion was given his toughest test this year but won 6-4 6-7 (6-8) 7-6 (7-4) 6-2 after three hours and 48 minutes. During the game, there came a point when after losing a point during the tiebreaker in the second set, Djokovic angrily whacked his racket into the clay. He regained his composure and broke the 13th-seeded Bautista Agut's serve early in the fourth set to take control. Alexander Zverev was pushed to a fifth set for a second consecutive match at the French Open, but the No. 2 seed again survived. Djokovic improved to 7-1 against Bautista Agut. He will next play another Spanish player, Fernando Verdasco. #Djokovic pic.twitter.com/BWBpexpazS — doublefault28 (@doublefault28) October 15, 2016 × Djokovic, who underwent right elbow surgery earlier this year, is the 20th-seeded player in Paris, his lowest Grand Slam seeding since the 2006 US Open. He arrived at Roland Garros with a 10-7 record this season. He won the last of his 12 Grand Slam titles at Roland Garros two years ago.

Watch: Novak Djokovic smashes racket on court at French Open

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