<p>Former tennis great Andy Murray has spoken on parting ways as Serbian player Novak Djokovic's coach. The partnership, a much talked about at that, went on for some time before both parties called it quits.</p><p>”It’s been a great ride. We both decided it was time to part ways,” said Murray while talking to UbiTennis. The partnership went on for five months and Murray was also asked what would he not miss.</p><p><strong>Also Read -</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-coach-gambhir-comments-on-test-retirement-of-virat-and-rohit-1747992566460">India coach Gambhir opens up on Test retirement of Virat and Rohit, says 'very individual decision'</a></p><p>Murray replied with a tongue in cheek remark and said: “One thing I won’t miss is the food. He was always trying to get me to eat vegan. Man, I don’t want air sandwiches and chickpeas for every meal.”</p><p>Djokovic also shared his views on calling time on the partnership and, as quoted by BBC, said: “We felt like we couldn’t get more out of that partnership on the court, and that’s all there is to it. My respect towards Andy remains the same, even more actually, I got to know him as a person. I think he has a brilliant tennis IQ, he has a very rare mind of a champion that obviously has achieved what he has achieved, and he sees the game incredibly well.”</p><p>Djokovic, with Murray, reached the semis of Australian Open 2025 before losing it. He then suffered a loss of form and exited next four of five tournaments played in the first round. In the fifth tournament, Miami Open, he was beaten in the final by 19-year-old Jakub Mensik.</p><p>Djokovic will now be seen in the French Open 2025 which begins May 25 - Djokovic is searching for the elusive 25th slam title which will put him at the top and one ahead of Margaret Court's 24 - the all-time most slams won by an athlete male or female.</p>

Djokovic will now be seen in the French Open 2025 which begins May 25 - Djokovic is searching for the elusive 25th slam title which will put him at the top.

Former tennis great Andy Murray has spoken on parting ways as Serbian player Novak Djokovic's coach. The partnership, a much talked about at that, went on for some time before both parties called it quits. ”It’s been a great ride. We both decided it was time to part ways,” said Murray while talking to UbiTennis. The partnership went on for five months and Murray was also asked what would he not miss. Also Read - India coach Gambhir opens up on Test retirement of Virat and Rohit, says 'very individual decision' Murray replied with a tongue in cheek remark and said: “One thing I won’t miss is the food. He was always trying to get me to eat vegan. Man, I don’t want air sandwiches and chickpeas for every meal.” Djokovic also shared his views on calling time on the partnership and, as quoted by BBC, said: “We felt like we couldn’t get more out of that partnership on the court, and that’s all there is to it. My respect towards Andy remains the same, even more actually, I got to know him as a person. I think he has a brilliant tennis IQ, he has a very rare mind of a champion that obviously has achieved what he has achieved, and he sees the game incredibly well.” Djokovic, with Murray, reached the semis of Australian Open 2025 before losing it. He then suffered a loss of form and exited next four of five tournaments played in the first round. In the fifth tournament, Miami Open, he was beaten in the final by 19-year-old Jakub Mensik. Djokovic will now be seen in the French Open 2025 which begins May 25 - Djokovic is searching for the elusive 25th slam title which will put him at the top and one ahead of Margaret Court's 24 - the all-time most slams won by an athlete male or female.

<p>Djokovic will now be seen in the French Open 2025 which begins May 25 - Djokovic is searching for the elusive 25th slam title which will put him at the top.</p>

Andy Murray opens up on parting ways with Novak Djokovic, says 'thing I won’t miss is...'

<p>Novak Djokovic overcame soggy conditions on his 38th birthday to beat Matteo Arnaldi on Thursday and reach the Geneva Open semi-finals in a tune-up event for Roland Garros.</p><p>The former world number one retrieved a break in the second set to claim a 6-4, 6-4 win over the 39th-ranked Italian who dumped him out at the first hurdle in Madrid last month.</p><p>Djokovic is hunting the 100th title of his career on the eve of the French Open having not won a tournament since capturing Olympic gold in Paris last August.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"It's great to be in the semi-finals again. Last year I played the semi-finals. Hopefully this year I can go at least a step further. That's the goal," said Djokovic.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Djokovic, who received a wild card to play in Geneva after skipping Rome, will meet British qualifier Cameron Norrie for a place in Saturday's final.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The 24-time Grand Slam champion had not won a match on clay this season after also losing his Monte Carlo opener at the start of April to Alejandro Tabilo.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A single break early in the first set enabled Djokovic to take control, but the sixth-ranked Serbian had to rally from 4-1 down in the second.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He drew audible gasps from the crowd when he grabbed his right knee after stretching for a shot in the fifth game.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>But Djokovic, who had surgery last year to repair a torn meniscus suffered at the French Open, quickly rebounded and let out a mighty roar as he broke to go 5-4 ahead before putting away Arnaldi.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He said an angry outburst after dropping serve helped him reset as he won the final five games.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"I think I'm playing really, really good tennis," said Djokovic, who was presented on court with a chocolate cake topped with sparklers after his victory.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Today it was a lot of tension on the court. A straight-sets win but it was much closer than maybe the score indicates.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"I was 4-1 down in the second. Somehow after that racquet breaking I didn't lose a game and kind of found my optimal state and balance, mentally and emotionally."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Norrie ousted Australian fifth seed Alexei Popyrin 7-6 (8/6), 6-4 in the day's last quarter-final.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Hubert Hurkacz put out top seed Taylor 6-3, 7-6 (7/5) earlier and will play Austrian qualifier Sebastian Ofner in the other semi-final.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The 128th-ranked Ofner came from behind to beat fourth seed Karen Khachanov 4-6, 6-4, 6-4.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><i><strong>Disclaimer:</strong> This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</i></p>

Novak Djokovic overcame soggy conditions on his 38th birthday to beat Matteo Arnaldi on Thursday and reach the Geneva Open semi-finals in a tune-up event for Roland Garros.

Novak Djokovic overcame soggy conditions on his 38th birthday to beat Matteo Arnaldi on Thursday and reach the Geneva Open semi-finals in a tune-up event for Roland Garros. The former world number one retrieved a break in the second set to claim a 6-4, 6-4 win over the 39th-ranked Italian who dumped him out at the first hurdle in Madrid last month. Djokovic is hunting the 100th title of his career on the eve of the French Open having not won a tournament since capturing Olympic gold in Paris last August. "It's great to be in the semi-finals again. Last year I played the semi-finals. Hopefully this year I can go at least a step further. That's the goal," said Djokovic. Djokovic, who received a wild card to play in Geneva after skipping Rome, will meet British qualifier Cameron Norrie for a place in Saturday's final. The 24-time Grand Slam champion had not won a match on clay this season after also losing his Monte Carlo opener at the start of April to Alejandro Tabilo. A single break early in the first set enabled Djokovic to take control, but the sixth-ranked Serbian had to rally from 4-1 down in the second. He drew audible gasps from the crowd when he grabbed his right knee after stretching for a shot in the fifth game. But Djokovic, who had surgery last year to repair a torn meniscus suffered at the French Open, quickly rebounded and let out a mighty roar as he broke to go 5-4 ahead before putting away Arnaldi. He said an angry outburst after dropping serve helped him reset as he won the final five games. "I think I'm playing really, really good tennis," said Djokovic, who was presented on court with a chocolate cake topped with sparklers after his victory. "Today it was a lot of tension on the court. A straight-sets win but it was much closer than maybe the score indicates. "I was 4-1 down in the second. Somehow after that racquet breaking I didn't lose a game and kind of found my optimal state and balance, mentally and emotionally." Norrie ousted Australian fifth seed Alexei Popyrin 7-6 (8/6), 6-4 in the day's last quarter-final. Hubert Hurkacz put out top seed Taylor 6-3, 7-6 (7/5) earlier and will play Austrian qualifier Sebastian Ofner in the other semi-final. The 128th-ranked Ofner came from behind to beat fourth seed Karen Khachanov 4-6, 6-4, 6-4. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

<p>Novak Djokovic overcame soggy conditions on his 38th birthday to beat Matteo Arnaldi on Thursday and reach the Geneva Open semi-finals in a tune-up event for Roland Garros.</p>

Novak Djokovic avenges Matteo Arnaldi loss in Geneva, to face Cameron Norrie in semis

<p>Spanish tennis legend Rafael Nadal has backed current world no. 1 Jannik Sinner in the doping case ahead of the start of French Open 2025. Sinner was found guilty of the presence of banned substance in his body and served a three-month ban before making a comeback at this month's Italian Open.</p><p>“I’ve said it several times: I’m totally convinced that Jannik never wanted to cheat or do anything illicit. I’d bet my life on it. There’s always a lot of fuss about this kind of thing, and when it happens, it’s bad for everyone. For him, who, I think, has been through an ordeal for a year. Obviously for tennis, this kind of thing is negative,” Nadal told the French newspaper L’equipe.</p><p><strong>Also Read -</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-i-would-have-gotten-20-years-serena-williams-on-jannik-sinners-three-month-doping-ban-8972561">'I would have gotten 20 years,' Serena Williams on Jannik Sinner's three-month doping ban</a></p><p>“After that, if you question everything in life, you can question everything. All I’m saying is that I trust Jannik. But just as I trust Jannik, I also trust the law. I don’t like to give my opinion on things I don’t know. So I understand that when the courts make decisions, it’s because they have all the necessary information that we don’t have. So I don’t like to see other players talking about it, without having the information. The people who have it, throughout the whole process, are the ones who have to make the decisions and judge the facts," he added.</p><p>The ban which started on Feb 9 earlier this year, shortly after he defended his Australian Open crown, ended on May 4, about a couple of weeks before the French Open 2025.</p><p>According to Sinner, a physio gave him the drug unknowingly and the International Tennis Integrity Agency agreed with the explanation.</p><p>World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), however, pushed for one year ban. The two agencies reached a settlement for three months but Sinner won't be missing any major tournaments.</p>

According to Sinner, a physio gave him the drug unknowingly and the International Tennis Integrity Agency agreed with the explanation. World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), however, pushed for one year ban. The two agencies reached a settlement for three months.

Spanish tennis legend Rafael Nadal has backed current world no. 1 Jannik Sinner in the doping case ahead of the start of French Open 2025. Sinner was found guilty of the presence of banned substance in his body and served a three-month ban before making a comeback at this month's Italian Open. “I’ve said it several times: I’m totally convinced that Jannik never wanted to cheat or do anything illicit. I’d bet my life on it. There’s always a lot of fuss about this kind of thing, and when it happens, it’s bad for everyone. For him, who, I think, has been through an ordeal for a year. Obviously for tennis, this kind of thing is negative,” Nadal told the French newspaper L’equipe. Also Read - 'I would have gotten 20 years,' Serena Williams on Jannik Sinner's three-month doping ban “After that, if you question everything in life, you can question everything. All I’m saying is that I trust Jannik. But just as I trust Jannik, I also trust the law. I don’t like to give my opinion on things I don’t know. So I understand that when the courts make decisions, it’s because they have all the necessary information that we don’t have. So I don’t like to see other players talking about it, without having the information. The people who have it, throughout the whole process, are the ones who have to make the decisions and judge the facts," he added. The ban which started on Feb 9 earlier this year, shortly after he defended his Australian Open crown, ended on May 4, about a couple of weeks before the French Open 2025. According to Sinner, a physio gave him the drug unknowingly and the International Tennis Integrity Agency agreed with the explanation. World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), however, pushed for one year ban. The two agencies reached a settlement for three months but Sinner won't be missing any major tournaments.

<p>According to Sinner, a physio gave him the drug unknowingly and the International Tennis Integrity Agency agreed with the explanation. World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), however, pushed for one year ban. The two agencies reached a settlement for three months.</p>

Rafael Nadal backs Sinner in doping case, says 'Jannik never wanted to cheat'

<p>Mercurial Australian tennis player Nick Kyrgios will appear at the upcoming French Open for the first time since 2017, competing in the men's doubles alongside compatriot Jordan Thompson.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The 30-year-old ranked as high as 13 in the world in 2016 appeared on a list of competitors for Roland Garros, which runs from May 25 to June 8, seen by AFP on Thursday.</p>
<p>Also Read -&nbsp;<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/erling-haaland-eyes-fa-cup-to-save-face-after-manchester-citys-horrific-season-9071319" aria-label="Erling Haaland eyes FA Cup to save face after Man City's 'horrific' season">Erling Haaland eyes FA Cup to save face after Man City's 'horrific' season</a></p>
<p>He was not going to play in Paris till Thompson's playing partner Max Purcell -- the duo won the US Open title last year -- was slapped with an 18 month doping ban in April.</p>
<p>Kyrgios teamed up with Thompson at the 2017 French Open, reaching the third round.</p>
<p>"After the stuff with Max Purcell, Jordan was looking for a partner and he asked me if I wanted to play," Kyrgios told The Canberra Times.</p>
<p>"We've played at the French Open before, so it'll be good to get out there and play with another fellow Aussie and have a bit of fun."</p>
<p>Kyrgios, Wimbledon singles finalist in 2022, has endured an injury-hit career and hardly played in 2023 and 2024.</p>
<p>He returned to the tour at the start of 2025, but last played in March, losing in the second round of the singles draw at the Miami Open.</p>
<p>His first round win against American qualifier Mackenzie McDonald was the world number 633's first tour-level victory since October 2022.</p>
<p>Kyrgios' last doubles match came at the Australian Open in January, when his partner Thanasi Kokkinakis was forced to retire injured in the first round.</p>
<p>Alongside Kokkinakis, Kyrgios won the doubles at the Australian Open three years ago.</p>
<p><em><strong>Disclaimer:<span>&nbsp;</span></strong>This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.</em></p>

The 30-year-old ranked as high as 13 in the world in 2016 appeared on a list of competitors for Roland Garros, which runs from May 25 to June 8. SPorts

Mercurial Australian tennis player Nick Kyrgios will appear at the upcoming French Open for the first time since 2017, competing in the men's doubles alongside compatriot Jordan Thompson. The 30-year-old ranked as high as 13 in the world in 2016 appeared on a list of competitors for Roland Garros, which runs from May 25 to June 8, seen by AFP on Thursday. Also Read - Erling Haaland eyes FA Cup to save face after Man City's 'horrific' season He was not going to play in Paris till Thompson's playing partner Max Purcell -- the duo won the US Open title last year -- was slapped with an 18 month doping ban in April. Kyrgios teamed up with Thompson at the 2017 French Open, reaching the third round. "After the stuff with Max Purcell, Jordan was looking for a partner and he asked me if I wanted to play," Kyrgios told The Canberra Times. "We've played at the French Open before, so it'll be good to get out there and play with another fellow Aussie and have a bit of fun." Kyrgios, Wimbledon singles finalist in 2022, has endured an injury-hit career and hardly played in 2023 and 2024. He returned to the tour at the start of 2025, but last played in March, losing in the second round of the singles draw at the Miami Open. His first round win against American qualifier Mackenzie McDonald was the world number 633's first tour-level victory since October 2022. Kyrgios' last doubles match came at the Australian Open in January, when his partner Thanasi Kokkinakis was forced to retire injured in the first round. Alongside Kokkinakis, Kyrgios won the doubles at the Australian Open three years ago. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

French Open 2025: Aussie Nick Kyrgios set to play at Roland Garros first time since 2017, pairs up with Jordan Thompson for doubles

<p>World number 1 Jannik Sinner has returned to tennis after serving a three-month doping ban. The Italian was received amid cheers from the 5000-strong crowd on Monday (May 5) during his practice session for the Italian Open (May 5-18). Home boy Sinner, however, wasn't able to explain all the attention.</p>
<p>"I don't know. Honestly, I think I'm a simple 23-year-old kid. I'm good at playing tennis, but I'm not changing the world," he said as reported by news agency AP. "I always remember that I come from a small town of 2,000 people. Being here in Rome and playing in front of so many people is a big deal."</p>
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<p>Sinner was handed the three-month ban which started on Feb 9 earlier this year, shortly after he defended his Australian Open crown.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">This is a video of Jannik Sinner playing tennis. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IBI25?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IBI25</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/atptour?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@atptour</a> <a href="https://t.co/pfAErr4pjf">pic.twitter.com/pfAErr4pjf</a></p>
&mdash; Internazionali BNL d'Italia (@InteBNLdItalia) <a href="https://twitter.com/InteBNLdItalia/status/1919481925036617899?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2025</a></blockquote>
<p>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</p>
<p>According to Sinner, a physio gave him a banned drug unknowingly and the International Tennis Integrity Agency agreed with the explanation.</p>
<p>World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), however, pushed for one year ban. The two agencies reached a settlement for three months which ended on May 4 (Sunday).</p>
<p>When asked what he did during the break, Sinner said: "At the start I was a bit confused because I didn't know exactly what I wanted to do," Sinner said. "Then I went home and stayed with my family. I tried to understand better what was really important to me.</p>
<p>"I know how many sacrifices I made and my daily routine was always practice, practice, practice. But at that moment I didn't have any of that. I came to understand that what's important to me are the people by your side. That they give you the strength to move forward and continue smiling."</p>
<p>Sinner plays his first match in Round of 64 on May 9 and would love to bounce back to match form ahead of French Open 2025 which starts right after Italian Open.</p>

The Italian was received amid cheers from the 5000-strong crowd on Monday (May 5) during his practice session for the Italian Open (May 5-18). Tennis Sports

World number 1 Jannik Sinner has returned to tennis after serving a three-month doping ban. The Italian was received amid cheers from the 5000-strong crowd on Monday (May 5) during his practice session for the Italian Open (May 5-18). Home boy Sinner, however, wasn't able to explain all the attention. "I don't know. Honestly, I think I'm a simple 23-year-old kid. I'm good at playing tennis, but I'm not changing the world," he said as reported by news agency AP. "I always remember that I come from a small town of 2,000 people. Being here in Rome and playing in front of so many people is a big deal." Also Watch: Thunder vs Nuggets, Game 1: Aaron Gordon clutch three takes Denver past Oklahoma City in conference semis Sinner was handed the three-month ban which started on Feb 9 earlier this year, shortly after he defended his Australian Open crown. This is a video of Jannik Sinner playing tennis. #IBI25 | @atptour pic.twitter.com/pfAErr4pjf — Internazionali BNL d'Italia (@InteBNLdItalia) May 5, 2025 According to Sinner, a physio gave him a banned drug unknowingly and the International Tennis Integrity Agency agreed with the explanation. World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), however, pushed for one year ban. The two agencies reached a settlement for three months which ended on May 4 (Sunday). When asked what he did during the break, Sinner said: "At the start I was a bit confused because I didn't know exactly what I wanted to do," Sinner said. "Then I went home and stayed with my family. I tried to understand better what was really important to me. "I know how many sacrifices I made and my daily routine was always practice, practice, practice. But at that moment I didn't have any of that. I came to understand that what's important to me are the people by your side. That they give you the strength to move forward and continue smiling." Sinner plays his first match in Round of 64 on May 9 and would love to bounce back to match form ahead of French Open 2025 which starts right after Italian Open.

Italian Open: World no. 1 Jannik Sinner returns after serving three-month doping ban

<p>Brazil is leading the charge in reviving the global chocolate industry, which is facing a severe supply shortage and rising prices.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Moises Schmidt, a cocoa grower and entrepreneur in Bahia state, is leading the development of what could become the world&rsquo;s largest cocoa farm. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>He has secured preliminary backing from major cocoa traders and chocolate manufacturers. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>&lsquo;We started producing cocoa looking for an alternative that would add to the fruit production that the group already wanted. However, at that time cocoa production needed shade and we began to understand a little the dynamics and the technical issues of cocoa. We began to identify that cocoa in full sun had a better response, the tree grew faster. It started producing fruit much earlier, producing more,&rsquo; Schmidt said while speaking to Reuters.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Cocoa crisis hits global chocolate supply&nbsp;</h2>
<p>The project comes at a critical time&mdash;cocoa production in West Africa, which supplies 70 per cent of the world&rsquo;s beans, is stagnating. &nbsp;Meanwhile, global demand for chocolate continues to rise, creating urgent pressure to find new, high-yield sources of cocoa.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&lsquo;In Brazil, today, we've reached the conclusion that if you want to reach a production above 1,6 million tons of cocoa, you need at least 500 thousand hectares of cocoa plantations in non-traditional areas, like the ones you are seeing here. This production, in my point of view, will only cover a drop of the production of countries in Africa that are stagnating at the moment,&rsquo; he said.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The implications of this megafarm are significant. &nbsp;If successful, it would not only make Brazil a key player in the global cocoa market but also set a new benchmark for sustainable, high-efficiency cocoa production. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>With global chocolate makers seeking reliable supply chains amid mounting climate and disease pressures in West Africa, this project could reshape where&mdash;and how&mdash;cocoa is grown.&nbsp;</p>

Tennis | World | Sports: Carlos Alcaraz, a four-time Grand Slam winner, sustained the problem during his Barcelona Open final defeat last Sunday by Holger Rune.

Brazil is leading the charge in reviving the global chocolate industry, which is facing a severe supply shortage and rising prices. Moises Schmidt, a cocoa grower and entrepreneur in Bahia state, is leading the development of what could become the world’s largest cocoa farm. He has secured preliminary backing from major cocoa traders and chocolate manufacturers. ‘We started producing cocoa looking for an alternative that would add to the fruit production that the group already wanted. However, at that time cocoa production needed shade and we began to understand a little the dynamics and the technical issues of cocoa. We began to identify that cocoa in full sun had a better response, the tree grew faster. It started producing fruit much earlier, producing more,’ Schmidt said while speaking to Reuters. Cocoa crisis hits global chocolate supply The project comes at a critical time—cocoa production in West Africa, which supplies 70 per cent of the world’s beans, is stagnating. Meanwhile, global demand for chocolate continues to rise, creating urgent pressure to find new, high-yield sources of cocoa. ‘In Brazil, today, we've reached the conclusion that if you want to reach a production above 1,6 million tons of cocoa, you need at least 500 thousand hectares of cocoa plantations in non-traditional areas, like the ones you are seeing here. This production, in my point of view, will only cover a drop of the production of countries in Africa that are stagnating at the moment,’ he said. The implications of this megafarm are significant. If successful, it would not only make Brazil a key player in the global cocoa market but also set a new benchmark for sustainable, high-efficiency cocoa production. With global chocolate makers seeking reliable supply chains amid mounting climate and disease pressures in West Africa, this project could reshape where—and how—cocoa is grown.

Carlos Alcaraz dealt injury blow ahead of French Open, withdraws from Madrid Open due to thigh issue

<p>The French Tennis Federation has announced the plans of honouring 14-time French Open winner Rafael Nadal at the upcoming competition which will run from May 19 to June 8. Along with Nadal, Mary Pierce and Richard Gasquet will also be honoured for their accomplishments. The developments were informed by French Tennis Federation president Gilles Moretton and tournament director Am&eacute;lie Mauresmo on Thursday (Apr 17) at the pre-tournament press conference.</p>
<p>Nadal will be facilitated on May 25 on Philippe-Chatrier court. This is the first French Open since the Spaniard's retirement. There will be ceremony to commemorate his career after day session's three matches.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read -</strong>&nbsp;<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-i-would-have-gotten-20-years-serena-williams-on-jannik-sinners-three-month-doping-ban-8972561" aria-label="'I would have gotten 20 years,' Serena Williams on Jannik Sinner's three-month doping ban">'I would have gotten 20 years,' Serena Williams on Jannik Sinner's three-month doping ban</a></p>
<p>"An immersive and entertaining exhibition dedicated to the legendary Spaniard will also run for the duration of the tournament at the Roland-Garros Tenniseum," read a release by the tournament organisers.</p>
<p>Nadal won his first French Open in 2005 and went on to earn a mind-boggling 112-4 record on the Roland Garros. His final and 14th French Open title came in 2022. In total, he has 22 grand slams, making him one of the most successful players of all time and definitely a great on Parisian clay.</p>
<p>Apart from him, Mary Pierce will be honoured on the 25th anniversary of her French Open win in 2000 edition. She will be inducted into International Tennis Hall of Fame after a ceremony on the Centre Court on June 5 between the two women's semi-finals. She will also be presented with the famous HoF ring as well. Apart from French Open, Pierce also won Australian Open in 1995.</p>
<p>The third player to be hounoured is French national Richard Gasquet - A ceremony is planned for him after the conclusion of his last game at his 22nd and final French Open.</p>
<h2><strong>Fan Zones erected in Paris</strong></h2>
<p>The organisers have also established a fan zone at Place de la Concorde square with the help of city of Paris. The 5,000 metre-square area is capable of hosting 5,000 fans where two giant screens will play the matches quarter-final onwards from June 4 to June 9.</p>
<p>The are will also have a throughout-the-day DJ, foot trucks, a bar and a Roland-Garros boutique as well.</p>

Along with Nadal, Mary Pierce and Richard Gasquet will also be honoured for their accomplishments at the French Open 2025 which runs from May 19 to June 8. Sports World

The French Tennis Federation has announced the plans of honouring 14-time French Open winner Rafael Nadal at the upcoming competition which will run from May 19 to June 8. Along with Nadal, Mary Pierce and Richard Gasquet will also be honoured for their accomplishments. The developments were informed by French Tennis Federation president Gilles Moretton and tournament director Amélie Mauresmo on Thursday (Apr 17) at the pre-tournament press conference. Nadal will be facilitated on May 25 on Philippe-Chatrier court. This is the first French Open since the Spaniard's retirement. There will be ceremony to commemorate his career after day session's three matches. Also Read - 'I would have gotten 20 years,' Serena Williams on Jannik Sinner's three-month doping ban "An immersive and entertaining exhibition dedicated to the legendary Spaniard will also run for the duration of the tournament at the Roland-Garros Tenniseum," read a release by the tournament organisers. Nadal won his first French Open in 2005 and went on to earn a mind-boggling 112-4 record on the Roland Garros. His final and 14th French Open title came in 2022. In total, he has 22 grand slams, making him one of the most successful players of all time and definitely a great on Parisian clay. Apart from him, Mary Pierce will be honoured on the 25th anniversary of her French Open win in 2000 edition. She will be inducted into International Tennis Hall of Fame after a ceremony on the Centre Court on June 5 between the two women's semi-finals. She will also be presented with the famous HoF ring as well. Apart from French Open, Pierce also won Australian Open in 1995. The third player to be hounoured is French national Richard Gasquet - A ceremony is planned for him after the conclusion of his last game at his 22nd and final French Open. Fan Zones erected in Paris The organisers have also established a fan zone at Place de la Concorde square with the help of city of Paris. The 5,000 metre-square area is capable of hosting 5,000 fans where two giant screens will play the matches quarter-final onwards from June 4 to June 9. The are will also have a throughout-the-day DJ, foot trucks, a bar and a Roland-Garros boutique as well.

French Open 2025: Rafael Nadal to be honoured at Roland Garros along with  Mary Pierce and Richard Gasquet

<p>The French Open 2025, year's second tennis grand slam, is just about a month away and the organisers have announced the entry list of men's and women's players set to take part. The tournament, which will run from May 19 to June 8, will see 104 women's tennis players and almost similar number of men's players as well.</p>
<h2><strong>Women's Singles</strong></h2>
<p>Among the 104 players in women's draw, the spotlight will be on defending champion and four-time winner Iga Swiatek as she aims for fifth Coupe Suzanne-Lenglen, Along with her is world number 1 Aryna Sabalenka who finished in quarterfinal last year. Sabalenka had a good 2024 when she defended her Australian Open crown and won the maiden US Open as well.</p>
<p>Four players have used protected rankings for get a place in French Open 2025 draw. They are Petra Kvitova who missed last year's event, Jodie Burrage who has never played in main draw at Roland Garros, Yanina Wickmayer and Sorana Cirstea. Apart from the, eight wildcards will also be offered later to complete the main draw.&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://fft-rg-commun-news.cdn.prismic.io/fft-rg-commun-news/Z_5wnevxEdbNPE3X_RGMDWomen2025.pdf">Check the full player list of French Open 2025 women's singles draw</a></p>
<h2><strong>Men's Singles</strong></h2>
<p>The men's singles has several big names including last year's champion Carlos Alcaraz - also touted as the successor of clay king Rafael Nadal. 2025 Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner, last year's finalist Alexander Zverev and one of the all-time greats Novak Djokovic as he searches for the elusive 25th grand slam title.</p>
<p>The players who have used protected rankings are - Reilly Opelka, Jenson Brooksby, Sebastian Ofner, and Emil Ruusuvuori.&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://fft-rg-commun-news.cdn.prismic.io/fft-rg-commun-news/Z_5wnOvxEdbNPE3V_RGMDMen2025.pdf">Check the full player list of French Open 2025 men's singles draw</a></p>
<h2><strong>What is protected ranking in tennis?</strong></h2>
<p>If a player is out of the game due to injury or maternity leave, their ranking, when they go out of the game, stays intact for a period of time even through they real time ranking goes down. They can use this intact ranking to make a comeback in tournaments. &nbsp;</p>

French Open 2025, which will run from May 19 to June 8, will see 104 women's tennis players and almost similar number of men's players as well. Tennis Sports World

The French Open 2025, year's second tennis grand slam, is just about a month away and the organisers have announced the entry list of men's and women's players set to take part. The tournament, which will run from May 19 to June 8, will see 104 women's tennis players and almost similar number of men's players as well. Women's Singles Among the 104 players in women's draw, the spotlight will be on defending champion and four-time winner Iga Swiatek as she aims for fifth Coupe Suzanne-Lenglen, Along with her is world number 1 Aryna Sabalenka who finished in quarterfinal last year. Sabalenka had a good 2024 when she defended her Australian Open crown and won the maiden US Open as well. Four players have used protected rankings for get a place in French Open 2025 draw. They are Petra Kvitova who missed last year's event, Jodie Burrage who has never played in main draw at Roland Garros, Yanina Wickmayer and Sorana Cirstea. Apart from the, eight wildcards will also be offered later to complete the main draw. Check the full player list of French Open 2025 women's singles draw Men's Singles The men's singles has several big names including last year's champion Carlos Alcaraz - also touted as the successor of clay king Rafael Nadal. 2025 Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner, last year's finalist Alexander Zverev and one of the all-time greats Novak Djokovic as he searches for the elusive 25th grand slam title. The players who have used protected rankings are - Reilly Opelka, Jenson Brooksby, Sebastian Ofner, and Emil Ruusuvuori. Check the full player list of French Open 2025 men's singles draw What is protected ranking in tennis? If a player is out of the game due to injury or maternity leave, their ranking, when they go out of the game, stays intact for a period of time even through they real time ranking goes down. They can use this intact ranking to make a comeback in tournaments.

French Open 2025: Men's and women's singles players list announced. Check details

<p>Romania's Simona Halep on Friday rounded on the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) for discrepancies in the treatment of world number two Iga Swiatek after testing positive for a banned substance.</p>

<p>The ITIA announced a one-month ban on Thursday for Swiatek after the 23-year-old had tested positive for the heart medication trimetazidine (TMZ) in an out-of-competition sample in August 2024, when the Polish player was ranked number one in the world.</p>

<p>Halep, now 33, returned to tennis in March this year after her own career had been on hold since October 7, 2022, the date of the start of her provisional suspension after testing positive for roxadustat at the US Open.</p>

<p>The winner of the 2018 French Open and 2019 Wimbledon singles titles was then caught up in a second affair, this time "irregularities" in the data of her biological passport.</p>

<p>She was handed a four-year ban by the&nbsp;ITIA, but Halep successfully appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in February, arguing her positive test for roxadustat -- used to treat anaemia and banned as a blood doping agent -- was the result of a tainted supplement.</p>

<p>"I wonder why there is such a difference in treatment and judgment? I don't find and I don't think there can be a logical answer," Halep said in a long message posted in Romanian on her Instagram account.</p>

<p>"It can only be bad will on the part of the ITIA, the organisation that did everything to destroy me despite the evidence. It wanted at all costs to destroy the last years of my career."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-rahul-should-bat-at-no-3-if-rohit-sharma-wants-to-open-in-adelaide-test-feels-pujara-780121">BGT 2024/25: Rahul should bat at No. 3 if Rohit Sharma wants to open in Adelaide Test, feels Pujara</a></strong></p>

<p>Halep, now sitting 877th in the world rankings, added: "I suffered, I suffer and I will perhaps always suffer from the injustice that was done to me.</p>

<p>"How is it possible that in identical cases taking place at roughly the same time, the ITIA has completely different approaches, to my detriment?</p>

<p>"I lost two years of my career, I suffered many sleepless nights, thoughts, anxiety, unanswered questions... but I got justice. It turned out that it was a contamination and that (the anomaly in my) biological passport was pure invention."</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer:</strong>&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>


Romania's Simona Halep on Friday rounded on the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) for discrepancies in the treatment of world number two Iga Swiatek after testing positive for a banned substance.

Romania's Simona Halep on Friday rounded on the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) for discrepancies in the treatment of world number two Iga Swiatek after testing positive for a banned substance. The ITIA announced a one-month ban on Thursday for Swiatek after the 23-year-old had tested positive for the heart medication trimetazidine (TMZ) in an out-of-competition sample in August 2024, when the Polish player was ranked number one in the world. Halep, now 33, returned to tennis in March this year after her own career had been on hold since October 7, 2022, the date of the start of her provisional suspension after testing positive for roxadustat at the US Open. The winner of the 2018 French Open and 2019 Wimbledon singles titles was then caught up in a second affair, this time "irregularities" in the data of her biological passport. She was handed a four-year ban by the ITIA, but Halep successfully appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in February, arguing her positive test for roxadustat -- used to treat anaemia and banned as a blood doping agent -- was the result of a tainted supplement. "I wonder why there is such a difference in treatment and judgment? I don't find and I don't think there can be a logical answer," Halep said in a long message posted in Romanian on her Instagram account. "It can only be bad will on the part of the ITIA, the organisation that did everything to destroy me despite the evidence. It wanted at all costs to destroy the last years of my career." ALSO READ | BGT 2024/25: Rahul should bat at No. 3 if Rohit Sharma wants to open in Adelaide Test, feels Pujara Halep, now sitting 877th in the world rankings, added: "I suffered, I suffer and I will perhaps always suffer from the injustice that was done to me. "How is it possible that in identical cases taking place at roughly the same time, the ITIA has completely different approaches, to my detriment? "I lost two years of my career, I suffered many sleepless nights, thoughts, anxiety, unanswered questions... but I got justice. It turned out that it was a contamination and that (the anomaly in my) biological passport was pure invention." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Simona Halep rounds on tennis doping body for Iga Swiatek leniency

<p>French Open champion Iga Swiatek escaped with a one-month suspension for a positive doping test after convincing the International Tennis Integrity Agency that it had not been intentional, the ITIA announced on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Poland's Swiatek, 23, tested positive for the prohibited substance trimetazidine (TMZ) in an out-of-competition sample in August 2024.</p>

<p>The ITIA, however, accepted that it was caused by "the contamination of a regulated non-prescription medication (melatonin), manufactured and sold in Poland that the player had been taking for jet lag and sleep issues".</p>

<p>"The violation was therefore not intentional... the player's level of fault was considered to be at the lowest end of the range for 'No Significant Fault or Negligence'."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-virat-kohli-couldve-a-big-series-former-india-coach-rahul-dravid-issues-stern-warning-to-australia-779828">BGT: 'Virat Kohli could've a big series,' Former India coach Rahul Dravid issues stern warning to Australia</a></strong></p>

<p>Swiatek, who has five Grand Slam titles to her name, accepted the month's suspension.</p>

<p>She was provisionally suspended from September 22 until October 4, missing three tournaments, which counts towards the sanction, leaving eight days remaining.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She will also forfeit prize money from the Cincinnati Open, the tournament directly following the test, where she lost to world number one Aryna Sabalenka in the final.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer:</strong>&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>


French Open champion Iga Swiatek escaped with a one-month suspension for a positive doping test after convincing the International Tennis Integrity Agency that it had not been intentional, the ITIA announced on Thursday.

French Open champion Iga Swiatek escaped with a one-month suspension for a positive doping test after convincing the International Tennis Integrity Agency that it had not been intentional, the ITIA announced on Thursday. Poland's Swiatek, 23, tested positive for the prohibited substance trimetazidine (TMZ) in an out-of-competition sample in August 2024. The ITIA, however, accepted that it was caused by "the contamination of a regulated non-prescription medication (melatonin), manufactured and sold in Poland that the player had been taking for jet lag and sleep issues". "The violation was therefore not intentional... the player's level of fault was considered to be at the lowest end of the range for 'No Significant Fault or Negligence'." ALSO READ | BGT: 'Virat Kohli could've a big series,' Former India coach Rahul Dravid issues stern warning to Australia Swiatek, who has five Grand Slam titles to her name, accepted the month's suspension. She was provisionally suspended from September 22 until October 4, missing three tournaments, which counts towards the sanction, leaving eight days remaining. She will also forfeit prize money from the Cincinnati Open, the tournament directly following the test, where she lost to world number one Aryna Sabalenka in the final. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

French Open champion Iga Swiatek accepts one-month doping suspension

<p>Japan's Naomi Osaka will meet Canada's Bianca Andreescu in the Libema Open quarterfinals in the Netherlands. Osaka defeated Dutch hopeful Suzan Lamens 6-2, 6-2 and Andreescu ousted No. 6 seed Yue Yuan of China 6-4, 6-4 in second-round action Wednesday in 's-Hertogenbosch.</p>

<p>Osaka needed just 54 minutes to reach her first grass-court semifinal since 2018. She fired nine aces and never faced a break point. Andreescu saved five of six break points against Yuan and weathered a rain delay to win in 1 hour and 21 minutes.</p>

<p>Also Wednesday, No. 2 seed Liudmila Samsonova of Russia beat Belgium's Alison Van Uytvanck 6-1, 6-3. Belgium's Greet Minnen eliminated No. 7 Donna Vekic of Croatia 6-1, 0-6, 7-5, and No. 5 Veronika Kudermetova of Russia defeated China's Zhuoxuan Bai 7-5, 6-1.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba/news-nba-finals-boston-celtics-beat-dallas-mavericks-106-99-to-take-3-0-lead-one-win-away-from-18th-title-731277">NBA Finals: Boston Celtics beat Dallas Mavericks 106-99 to take 3-0 lead, one win away from 18th title</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Rothesay Open</strong></h2>

<p>No. 3 seed Katie Boulter of Great Britain moved into the quarterfinals in Nottingham, England, with a 6-4, 6-3 win against Canada's Rebecca Marino. Boulter converted four of her five break chances while taking advantage of seven double faults by Marino.</p>

<p>Sixth-seeded Karolina Pliskova eliminated the United Kingdom's Heather Watson 6-4, 6-4. Australia's Kimberly Birrell was a 6-4, 6-7 (5), 6-0 winner against Italy's Lucrezia Stefanini. France's Diane Parry defeated Australia's Daria Saville 6-4, 6-1.</p>


Japan's Naomi Osaka will meet Canada's Bianca Andreescu in the Libema Open quarterfinals in the Netherlands. Osaka defeated Dutch hopeful Suzan Lamens 6-2, 6-2 and Andreescu ousted No.

Japan's Naomi Osaka will meet Canada's Bianca Andreescu in the Libema Open quarterfinals in the Netherlands. Osaka defeated Dutch hopeful Suzan Lamens 6-2, 6-2 and Andreescu ousted No. 6 seed Yue Yuan of China 6-4, 6-4 in second-round action Wednesday in 's-Hertogenbosch. Osaka needed just 54 minutes to reach her first grass-court semifinal since 2018. She fired nine aces and never faced a break point. Andreescu saved five of six break points against Yuan and weathered a rain delay to win in 1 hour and 21 minutes. Also Wednesday, No. 2 seed Liudmila Samsonova of Russia beat Belgium's Alison Van Uytvanck 6-1, 6-3. Belgium's Greet Minnen eliminated No. 7 Donna Vekic of Croatia 6-1, 0-6, 7-5, and No. 5 Veronika Kudermetova of Russia defeated China's Zhuoxuan Bai 7-5, 6-1. Also read: NBA Finals: Boston Celtics beat Dallas Mavericks 106-99 to take 3-0 lead, one win away from 18th title Rothesay Open No. 3 seed Katie Boulter of Great Britain moved into the quarterfinals in Nottingham, England, with a 6-4, 6-3 win against Canada's Rebecca Marino. Boulter converted four of her five break chances while taking advantage of seven double faults by Marino. Sixth-seeded Karolina Pliskova eliminated the United Kingdom's Heather Watson 6-4, 6-4. Australia's Kimberly Birrell was a 6-4, 6-7 (5), 6-0 winner against Italy's Lucrezia Stefanini. France's Diane Parry defeated Australia's Daria Saville 6-4, 6-1.

WTA roundup: After early French Open exit, Naomi Osaka reaches Libema Open quarterfinals

<p>Tennis great Rafael Nadal has announced that he will be skipping next month's Wimbledon to focus on the Paris Olympics. Nadal said he did not want to change surfaces, especially since he was still returning to full fitness after injuries kept him on the sidelines for a long time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nadal took to social media to inform about his decision, a day after Spanish Tennis Federation (RFET) announced that the 22-time Grand Slam winner was pairing with young sensation, Carlos Alcaraz for doubles at the Olympics.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"During my post match press conference at Roland Garros I was asked about my summer calendar and since then I have been practicing on clay. It was announced yesterday that I will play at the summer Olympics in Paris, my last Olympics," said Nadal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"With this goal, we believe that the best for my body is not to change surface and keep playing on clay until then. It’s for this reason that I will miss playing at the Championships this year at Wimbledon."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">During my post match press conference at Roland Garros I was asked about my summer calendar and since then I have been practicing on clay. It was announced yesterday that I will play at the summer Olympics in Paris, my last Olympics.</p>
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal/status/1801232805449302115?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The two-time Olympics gold medalist&nbsp;added that he will be playing in Nordea Open in&nbsp;Bastad, Sweden to prepare for the quadrennial tournament.&nbsp;Nadal is awarded a wildcard and will be unseeded, which means he will play his first match as early as Monday or Tuesday, July 15-16.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-is-rafael-nadal-retiring-tennis-great-provides-update-after-french-open-1st-round-exit-726055"><strong>Also read | Is Rafael Nadal retiring? Tennis great provides update after French Open 1st round exit</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Nadal's injury woes</strong></h2>

<p>Nadal has been struggling with injuries for the last two years which has limited his game time. Since January last year, he has only played 15 matches as a hip injury and muscle tear have kept him in rehabilitation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He returned to action on his favourite surface - clay, playing at Barcelona and Madrid Masters before also giving a go in Rome. After decent outings in the two tournaments, Nadal arrived in Roland Garros to face Alexander Zverev in the first round.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite giving a good account of himself, Nadal went down in straight sets against the German. After the match, Nadal said he was&nbsp;'100 per cent sure' if he would be returning to the French Open next year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is difficult for me to talk. I don't know if it is the last time that I am going to be here in front of you. I'm not 100 per cent sure but if it's the last time, I enjoyed it," said Nadal in the post-match interview.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite the setbacks, the fans would be happy to see Nadal back in action at Roland Garros and compete for another Olympic&nbsp;medal.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Tennis great Rafael Nadal has announced that he will be skipping next month's Wimbledon to focus on the Paris Olympics. Nadal said he did not want to change surfaces, especially since he was still returning to full fitness after injuries kept him on the sidelines for a long time.

Tennis great Rafael Nadal has announced that he will be skipping next month's Wimbledon to focus on the Paris Olympics. Nadal said he did not want to change surfaces, especially since he was still returning to full fitness after injuries kept him on the sidelines for a long time. Nadal took to social media to inform about his decision, a day after Spanish Tennis Federation (RFET) announced that the 22-time Grand Slam winner was pairing with young sensation, Carlos Alcaraz for doubles at the Olympics. "During my post match press conference at Roland Garros I was asked about my summer calendar and since then I have been practicing on clay. It was announced yesterday that I will play at the summer Olympics in Paris, my last Olympics," said Nadal. "With this goal, we believe that the best for my body is not to change surface and keep playing on clay until then. It’s for this reason that I will miss playing at the Championships this year at Wimbledon." During my post match press conference at Roland Garros I was asked about my summer calendar and since then I have been practicing on clay. It was announced yesterday that I will play at the summer Olympics in Paris, my last Olympics. — Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) June 13, 2024 × The two-time Olympics gold medalist added that he will be playing in Nordea Open in Bastad, Sweden to prepare for the quadrennial tournament. Nadal is awarded a wildcard and will be unseeded, which means he will play his first match as early as Monday or Tuesday, July 15-16. Also read | Is Rafael Nadal retiring? Tennis great provides update after French Open 1st round exit Nadal's injury woes Nadal has been struggling with injuries for the last two years which has limited his game time. Since January last year, he has only played 15 matches as a hip injury and muscle tear have kept him in rehabilitation. He returned to action on his favourite surface - clay, playing at Barcelona and Madrid Masters before also giving a go in Rome. After decent outings in the two tournaments, Nadal arrived in Roland Garros to face Alexander Zverev in the first round. Despite giving a good account of himself, Nadal went down in straight sets against the German. After the match, Nadal said he was '100 per cent sure' if he would be returning to the French Open next year. "It is difficult for me to talk. I don't know if it is the last time that I am going to be here in front of you. I'm not 100 per cent sure but if it's the last time, I enjoyed it," said Nadal in the post-match interview. Despite the setbacks, the fans would be happy to see Nadal back in action at Roland Garros and compete for another Olympic medal. (With inputs from agencies)

Rafael Nadal REVEALS his Wimbledon and Paris Olympics plans post French Open exit

<p>Andy Murray may opt out of challenge&nbsp;for a third Olympic gold medal at the Paris Games next month if he is not selected to play in the doubles tournament, Britain's former world number one said.</p>

<p>The three-time Grand Slam winner and twice Olympic champion is eligible to compete in the singles at the Games with two places reserved for players who have previously won a Grand Slam or Olympics tournament.</p>

<p>However, Murray could miss out on the doubles in Paris with Britain set to send Joe Salisbury and Neal Skupski instead.</p>

<p>"I need to see what happens with the Olympics," he told reporters after his 6-3 6-4 defeat to Marcos Giron at the Stuttgart Open on Tuesday (Jun 11).</p>

<p>"I'm not 100 per cent sure what the situation is there with the doubles yet and whether or not I will play if I just get in the singles. I don't know.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-french-open-final-spains-carlos-alcaraz-outmuscles-alexander-zverev-to-clinch-maiden-title-in-paris-730331"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;French Open Final: Spain's Carlos Alcaraz outmuscles Alexander Zverev to clinch maiden title in Paris</strong></a></p>

<p>"My body didn't feel great playing on the clay in the last month or so. I had quite a few issues with my back, so I don't know if I would go just for singles.</p>

<p>"I need to wait a little bit and see on that," added the 37-year-old, who lost in the first round of the French Open doubles alongside Daniel Evans.</p>

<p>The tennis tournament at the Olympics will take place at Roland Garros from July 27-Aug. 4.</p>


Andy Murray may opt out of challenge for a third Olympic gold medal at the Paris Games next month if he is not selected to play in the doubles tournament, Britain's former world number one said.

Andy Murray may opt out of challenge for a third Olympic gold medal at the Paris Games next month if he is not selected to play in the doubles tournament, Britain's former world number one said. The three-time Grand Slam winner and twice Olympic champion is eligible to compete in the singles at the Games with two places reserved for players who have previously won a Grand Slam or Olympics tournament. However, Murray could miss out on the doubles in Paris with Britain set to send Joe Salisbury and Neal Skupski instead. "I need to see what happens with the Olympics," he told reporters after his 6-3 6-4 defeat to Marcos Giron at the Stuttgart Open on Tuesday (Jun 11). "I'm not 100 per cent sure what the situation is there with the doubles yet and whether or not I will play if I just get in the singles. I don't know. Also read | French Open Final: Spain's Carlos Alcaraz outmuscles Alexander Zverev to clinch maiden title in Paris "My body didn't feel great playing on the clay in the last month or so. I had quite a few issues with my back, so I don't know if I would go just for singles. "I need to wait a little bit and see on that," added the 37-year-old, who lost in the first round of the French Open doubles alongside Daniel Evans. The tennis tournament at the Olympics will take place at Roland Garros from July 27-Aug. 4.

Here's why former no. 1 Andy Murray may opt out of Paris Olympics 2024

<p>Former U.S. Open champion&nbsp;Emma&nbsp;Raducanu&nbsp;said she no longer has any doubts when she hits the ball after recovering from surgery on both wrists and an ankle, adding that she is "in a really fit place" as she begins the grasscourt season. The 21-year-old, who was sidelined for eight months last year, competed in Stuttgart and Madrid during the clay swing but withdrew from the qualifying rounds for the French Open.</p>

<p>Raducanu&nbsp;had not been awarded a wildcard for the claycourt Grand Slam and said she withdrew to manage her workload and focus on her fitness. The Briton said on Monday she now felt really strong and was excited to be back in action.</p>

<p>"Body-wise, physical-wise, I feel really healthy," she told reporters ahead of her opening match at the Nottingham Open against Japan's Ena Shibahara later on Tuesday. "I've done amazing work with my trainer over the last few months, since surgery. I'm in a really fit place. I'm healthy and just looking forward to starting playing."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rory-mcilroy-says-divorce-off-after-reconciliation-as-veteran-golfer-looks-for-new-beginning-730949">Rory McIlroy says divorce off after reconciliation as veteran golfer looks for 'new beginning'</a></strong></p>

<p>Raducanu&nbsp;first grabbed the spotlight when she reached the fourth round at Wimbledon in 2021 and made her big breakthrough by winning the U.S. Open later that year. "I think my wrists are actually in a better position than they ever were. So there's zero doubt or apprehension whether I'm hitting the ball or designing my schedule," she said. "It's more about being proactive and not wanting to put yourself in any unnecessary situations. I don't need to rush and try to win the French Open, it wasn't my goal this year.</p>

<p>"I had to prioritise where I wanted to target and it was just a good block for me to get some ­physical work done."</p>

<p>Wimbledon begins on July 1.</p>


Former U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu said she no longer has any doubts when she hits the ball after recovering from surgery on both wrists and an ankle, adding that she is "in a really fit place" as she begins the grasscourt season.

Former U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu said she no longer has any doubts when she hits the ball after recovering from surgery on both wrists and an ankle, adding that she is "in a really fit place" as she begins the grasscourt season. The 21-year-old, who was sidelined for eight months last year, competed in Stuttgart and Madrid during the clay swing but withdrew from the qualifying rounds for the French Open. Raducanu had not been awarded a wildcard for the claycourt Grand Slam and said she withdrew to manage her workload and focus on her fitness. The Briton said on Monday she now felt really strong and was excited to be back in action. "Body-wise, physical-wise, I feel really healthy," she told reporters ahead of her opening match at the Nottingham Open against Japan's Ena Shibahara later on Tuesday. "I've done amazing work with my trainer over the last few months, since surgery. I'm in a really fit place. I'm healthy and just looking forward to starting playing." Also read: Rory McIlroy says divorce off after reconciliation as veteran golfer looks for 'new beginning' Raducanu first grabbed the spotlight when she reached the fourth round at Wimbledon in 2021 and made her big breakthrough by winning the U.S. Open later that year. "I think my wrists are actually in a better position than they ever were. So there's zero doubt or apprehension whether I'm hitting the ball or designing my schedule," she said. "It's more about being proactive and not wanting to put yourself in any unnecessary situations. I don't need to rush and try to win the French Open, it wasn't my goal this year. "I had to prioritise where I wanted to target and it was just a good block for me to get some physical work done." Wimbledon begins on July 1.

Former US Open champion Emma Raducanu happy with fitness, looking forward to grasscourt season

<p>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.</p>

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<h2><strong>Alcaraz wins French Open title</strong></h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><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></p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2><strong>Alcaraz cements his legacy</strong></h2>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>


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

<p>El Salvador's Marcelo Arevalo and Mate Pavic of Croatia beat Italian duo Simone Bolelli and Andrea Vavassori 7-5, 6-3 to win the men's French Open doubles title Saturday.</p>

<p>Arevalo won his second Roland Garros crown in three years, while the victory completed a career Grand Slam for Pavic, whose four titles have all come with a different partner.</p>

<p>It was a second successive final defeat for Bolelli and Vavassori at a major. They finished runners-up at the Australian Open at the start of the year.</p>

<p>Poland’s Iga Swiatek outclassed her Italian counterpart Jasmine Paolini in straight sets to win her third consecutive French Open women’s singles title on Saturday (June 8). Swiatek, seeded number one for the tournament also clinched her fourth title in five years in Paris having beaten Paolini 6-2, 6-0 in little over an hour. Swiatek on her way to the title French Open title dropped only one set in the tournament highlighting her dominance on clay court.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-french-open-final-iga-swiatek-outclasses-jasmine-paolini-in-straight-sets-to-win-third-consecutive-title-729963">French Open Final: Iga Swiatek outclasses Jasmine Paolini in straight sets to win third consecutive title</a></p>

<h2><strong>Swiatek clinches fourth title in Paris</strong></h2>

<p>Entering the final as the favourite to win the title, Swiatek was at her fluent best at Court Philippe-Chatrier as she dropped only three games in the entire match to win the French Open women’s singles title. The Polish sensation broke her opponent's serve on five occasions in the match while losing her serve only once throughout the 58-minute contest. With three love games, Swiatek showcased her dominance over the match and clinched her latest title.</p>

<p>She also becomes the first woman since Belgian’s Justine Henin in 2007 to win the French Open women’s title on a third consecutive occasion. In the Open Era, only Chris Evert (7) and Steffi Graf (6) have won more French Open women’s singles titles than Swiatek while she is now level with Henin for four titles in Paris.</p>

<p>Swiatek’s next target will be to win the French Open on a fourth consecutive occasion in 2025 with only Suzanne Lenglen in the 1920s and Jeanne Matthey in the 1910s to have achieved the rare feat.</p>

<p>The eyes will now turn to the French Open men’s singles final which takes place on Sunday as both Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev try to win their first title on the Clay Court. The winner will also become just the fifth different player in the last two decades to win the prestigious French Open men’s singles title which had seen a major dominance by Spain’s Rafael Nadal.</p>


El Salvador's Marcelo Arevalo and Mate Pavic of Croatia beat Italian duo Simone Bolelli and Andrea Vavassori 7-5, 6-3 to win the men's French Open doubles title Saturday.

El Salvador's Marcelo Arevalo and Mate Pavic of Croatia beat Italian duo Simone Bolelli and Andrea Vavassori 7-5, 6-3 to win the men's French Open doubles title Saturday. Arevalo won his second Roland Garros crown in three years, while the victory completed a career Grand Slam for Pavic, whose four titles have all come with a different partner. It was a second successive final defeat for Bolelli and Vavassori at a major. They finished runners-up at the Australian Open at the start of the year. Poland’s Iga Swiatek outclassed her Italian counterpart Jasmine Paolini in straight sets to win her third consecutive French Open women’s singles title on Saturday (June 8). Swiatek, seeded number one for the tournament also clinched her fourth title in five years in Paris having beaten Paolini 6-2, 6-0 in little over an hour. Swiatek on her way to the title French Open title dropped only one set in the tournament highlighting her dominance on clay court. ALSO READ | French Open Final: Iga Swiatek outclasses Jasmine Paolini in straight sets to win third consecutive title Swiatek clinches fourth title in Paris Entering the final as the favourite to win the title, Swiatek was at her fluent best at Court Philippe-Chatrier as she dropped only three games in the entire match to win the French Open women’s singles title. The Polish sensation broke her opponent's serve on five occasions in the match while losing her serve only once throughout the 58-minute contest. With three love games, Swiatek showcased her dominance over the match and clinched her latest title. She also becomes the first woman since Belgian’s Justine Henin in 2007 to win the French Open women’s title on a third consecutive occasion. In the Open Era, only Chris Evert (7) and Steffi Graf (6) have won more French Open women’s singles titles than Swiatek while she is now level with Henin for four titles in Paris. Swiatek’s next target will be to win the French Open on a fourth consecutive occasion in 2025 with only Suzanne Lenglen in the 1920s and Jeanne Matthey in the 1910s to have achieved the rare feat. The eyes will now turn to the French Open men’s singles final which takes place on Sunday as both Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev try to win their first title on the Clay Court. The winner will also become just the fifth different player in the last two decades to win the prestigious French Open men’s singles title which had seen a major dominance by Spain’s Rafael Nadal.

French Open: Marcelo Arevalo, Mate Pavic win men's doubles titles

<p>Poland’s Iga Swiatek outclassed her Italian counterpart Jasmine Paolini in straight sets to win her third consecutive French Open women’s singles title on Saturday (June 8). Swiatek, seeded number one for the tournament also clinched her fourth title in five years in Paris having beaten Paolini 6-2, 6-1&nbsp;in little over an hour. Swiatek on her way to the&nbsp;French Open title dropped only one set in the tournament highlighting her dominance on clay court.</p>

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<h2><strong>Swiatek clinches fourth title in Paris</strong></h2>

<p>Entering the final as the favourite to win the title, Swiatek was at her fluent best at Court Philippe-Chatrier as she dropped only three games in the entire match to win the French Open women’s singles title. The Polish sensation broke her opponent's serve on five occasions in the match while losing her serve only once throughout the 58-minute contest. With three love games, Swiatek showcased her dominance over the match and clinched her latest title.</p>

<p>During the entire tournament, Swiatek dropped only one set which was against Japan’s Naomi Osaka where she also saved a match point. After that match, there was no looking back for the Polish star as she won her fifth Grand Slam title, with four title wins coming in Paris. Her only other Grand Slam success was at the 2022 US Open.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-could-indias-plan-b-be-against-shaheen-and-amir-in-new-york-showdown-in-t20-world-cup-729942">What could India’s Plan B be against Shaheen and Amir in New York showdown in T20 World Cup?</a></p>

<p>She also becomes the first woman since Belgian’s Justine Henin in 2007 to win the French Open women’s title on a third consecutive occasion. In the Open Era, only Chris Evert (7) and Steffi Graf (6) have won more French Open women’s singles titles than Swiatek while she is now level with Henin for four titles in Paris.</p>

<p>Swiatek’s next target will be to win the French Open for a fourth consecutive time in 2025 with only Suzanne Lenglen in the 1920s and Jeanne Matthey in the 1910s to have achieved the rare feat.</p>

<p>The eyes will now turn to the French Open men’s singles final which takes place on Sunday (June 9) as both Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev try to win their first title on the Clay Court. The winner will also become the fifth player in the last two decades to win the prestigious French Open men’s singles title which had seen a major dominance by Spain’s Rafael Nadal.</p>


Poland’s Iga Swiatek outclassed her Italian counterpart Jasmine Paolini in straight sets to win her third consecutive French Open women’s singles title on Saturday (June 8).

Poland’s Iga Swiatek outclassed her Italian counterpart Jasmine Paolini in straight sets to win her third consecutive French Open women’s singles title on Saturday (June 8). Swiatek, seeded number one for the tournament also clinched her fourth title in five years in Paris having beaten Paolini 6-2, 6-1 in little over an hour. Swiatek on her way to the French Open title dropped only one set in the tournament highlighting her dominance on clay court. IGA SWI4TEK QUEEN OF P4RIS 👑#RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/ufBQUfpdrT — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 8, 2024 × Swiatek clinches fourth title in Paris Entering the final as the favourite to win the title, Swiatek was at her fluent best at Court Philippe-Chatrier as she dropped only three games in the entire match to win the French Open women’s singles title. The Polish sensation broke her opponent's serve on five occasions in the match while losing her serve only once throughout the 58-minute contest. With three love games, Swiatek showcased her dominance over the match and clinched her latest title. During the entire tournament, Swiatek dropped only one set which was against Japan’s Naomi Osaka where she also saved a match point. After that match, there was no looking back for the Polish star as she won her fifth Grand Slam title, with four title wins coming in Paris. Her only other Grand Slam success was at the 2022 US Open. ALSO READ | What could India’s Plan B be against Shaheen and Amir in New York showdown in T20 World Cup? She also becomes the first woman since Belgian’s Justine Henin in 2007 to win the French Open women’s title on a third consecutive occasion. In the Open Era, only Chris Evert (7) and Steffi Graf (6) have won more French Open women’s singles titles than Swiatek while she is now level with Henin for four titles in Paris. Swiatek’s next target will be to win the French Open for a fourth consecutive time in 2025 with only Suzanne Lenglen in the 1920s and Jeanne Matthey in the 1910s to have achieved the rare feat. The eyes will now turn to the French Open men’s singles final which takes place on Sunday (June 9) as both Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev try to win their first title on the Clay Court. The winner will also become the fifth player in the last two decades to win the prestigious French Open men’s singles title which had seen a major dominance by Spain’s Rafael Nadal.

French Open Final: Iga Swiatek outclasses Jasmine Paolini in straight sets to win third consecutive title

<p>Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz has taken a giant step towards completing a career Grand Slam after he overcame Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner in a marathon French Open men’s singles semifinal. The over four-hour-long contest played on Friday (June 7)&nbsp;saw Alcaraz win 2-6, 6-3, 3-6, 6-4, 6-3 to book a place in the final of the French Open 2024. He will face the winner of the&nbsp;Sunday’s final between&nbsp;Casper Ruud and Alexander Zverev.</p>

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<h2><strong>Alcaraz in maiden French Open final</strong></h2>

<p>In one of the standout matches in the French Open this season, both Alcaraz and Sinner dropped only two sets combined before the semifinal. However, it was the Italian who drew the first blood in the match breaking Alcaraz three times in the opening set. While the Spaniard made a comeback with a break back, it was not enough as he won the opening set 6-2. However, the defending Wimbledon champion came roaring back to win the second set 6-3.</p>

<p>Sinner&nbsp;again struck&nbsp;with another decisive break in the third set which laid the platform for the match. He bagged the third set 3-6 and was a set away from another Grand Slam final, having earlier beaten Novak Djokovic in the Australian Open semis in January.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/premier-league-chelsea-complete-first-transfer-of-summer-as-tosin-adarabioyo-signs-for-free-from-fulham-729683">Premier League: Chelsea complete first transfer of summer as Tosin Adarabioyo signed for free from Fulham</a></p>

<p>Alcaraz, however, was not done and broke the Italian’s serve when he was serving to stay in the fourth set at 5-4. Alcaraz then had no issues in settling the contest in the fifth set where he was the dominant force.</p>

<p>The win also means that Spain continues to have a representation in the final of the French Open despite the absence of Rafael Nadal. The great Spanish player was knocked out in the first round by Alexander Zverev, who could eventually face Alcaraz in the final. The German, also the defending Olympic champion, will face Casper Ruud in the other semifinal on Sunday.</p>


Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz has taken a giant step towards completing a career Grand Slam after he overcame Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner in a marathon French Open men’s singles semifinal.

Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz has taken a giant step towards completing a career Grand Slam after he overcame Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner in a marathon French Open men’s singles semifinal. The over four-hour-long contest played on Friday (June 7) saw Alcaraz win 2-6, 6-3, 3-6, 6-4, 6-3 to book a place in the final of the French Open 2024. He will face the winner of the Sunday’s final between Casper Ruud and Alexander Zverev. CARLOS ALCARAZ WINS THIS ONE! #RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/2NRYF16tZO — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 7, 2024 × Alcaraz in maiden French Open final In one of the standout matches in the French Open this season, both Alcaraz and Sinner dropped only two sets combined before the semifinal. However, it was the Italian who drew the first blood in the match breaking Alcaraz three times in the opening set. While the Spaniard made a comeback with a break back, it was not enough as he won the opening set 6-2. However, the defending Wimbledon champion came roaring back to win the second set 6-3. Sinner again struck with another decisive break in the third set which laid the platform for the match. He bagged the third set 3-6 and was a set away from another Grand Slam final, having earlier beaten Novak Djokovic in the Australian Open semis in January. ALSO READ | Premier League: Chelsea complete first transfer of summer as Tosin Adarabioyo signed for free from Fulham Alcaraz, however, was not done and broke the Italian’s serve when he was serving to stay in the fourth set at 5-4. Alcaraz then had no issues in settling the contest in the fifth set where he was the dominant force. The win also means that Spain continues to have a representation in the final of the French Open despite the absence of Rafael Nadal. The great Spanish player was knocked out in the first round by Alexander Zverev, who could eventually face Alcaraz in the final. The German, also the defending Olympic champion, will face Casper Ruud in the other semifinal on Sunday.

French Open: Carlos Alcaraz overcomes Jannik Sinner in marathon contest to reach maiden final

<p>Reaching a Grand Slam final is probably the dream of any child when they pick up a tennis racket, but Jasmine Paolini, who won her French Open semi-final on Thursday, never dared to think so far ahead. The Italian 28-year-old reached her first major final with a comfortable 6-3 6-1 win over Russian teenager Mirra Andreeva.</p>

<p>"When I started to play tennis, I was just enjoying. I was not dreaming too much," Paolini told reporters. "Then I started to train like a professional tennis player. I was dreaming to become a professional, and I never dreamed to be, you know, number one, Grand Slam champion. Never dreamed so big. Never."</p>

<p>"That, I think is not so positive, because I think it's important to dream, but I started to dream, I think, step by step. Not, you know, too far away."</p>

<p>Paolini was shocked to realise that other players did have those dreams and goals from a young age. "For me it's surprising to see interviews from Nole (Novak Djokovic) when he was a kid saying that he wanted to be world number one, and Wimbledon," she said.</p>

<p>"I watched this, and I said, it's unbelievable that you can dream as a child. I didn't dream it, you know, when I was a child. "It's unbelievable to see Jannik (Sinner) when he was 15 years old say that his dream was to be number one, and for me it's something different. I never dreamed to be in a Grand Slam final, and I'm here."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/iga-swiatek-beats-american-coco-gauff-to-reach-third-straight-french-open-final-729440">Iga Swiatek beats American Coco Gauff to reach third straight French Open final</a></strong></p>

<p>Paolini will play Polish world number one and three-times French Open champion Iga Swiatek in Saturday's final, which gives her the chance to use her Polish language skills, as the Italian's mother is from Poland.</p>

<p>"I try to speak in Polish, but it's not easy. I'm a little bit shy because I'm not feeling really confident in it," Paolini said. "But of course, when I see her, I say congratulations for the title she can win. She does the same. She congratulated me after Dubai."</p>

<p>Paolini will go into the final full of confidence as she has also reached the women's doubles semi-finals at Roland Garros.</p>

<p>"To step on court and to believe that you can win, it's a totally different way to see the match," Paolini said. "When you are not confident, it's a little bit more complicated in tennis, because it's a really mental sport."</p>


Reaching a Grand Slam final is probably the dream of any child when they pick up a tennis racket, but Jasmine Paolini, who won her French Open semi-final on Thursday, never dared to think so far ahead.

Reaching a Grand Slam final is probably the dream of any child when they pick up a tennis racket, but Jasmine Paolini, who won her French Open semi-final on Thursday, never dared to think so far ahead. The Italian 28-year-old reached her first major final with a comfortable 6-3 6-1 win over Russian teenager Mirra Andreeva. "When I started to play tennis, I was just enjoying. I was not dreaming too much," Paolini told reporters. "Then I started to train like a professional tennis player. I was dreaming to become a professional, and I never dreamed to be, you know, number one, Grand Slam champion. Never dreamed so big. Never." "That, I think is not so positive, because I think it's important to dream, but I started to dream, I think, step by step. Not, you know, too far away." Paolini was shocked to realise that other players did have those dreams and goals from a young age. "For me it's surprising to see interviews from Nole (Novak Djokovic) when he was a kid saying that he wanted to be world number one, and Wimbledon," she said. "I watched this, and I said, it's unbelievable that you can dream as a child. I didn't dream it, you know, when I was a child. "It's unbelievable to see Jannik (Sinner) when he was 15 years old say that his dream was to be number one, and for me it's something different. I never dreamed to be in a Grand Slam final, and I'm here." Also read: Iga Swiatek beats American Coco Gauff to reach third straight French Open final Paolini will play Polish world number one and three-times French Open champion Iga Swiatek in Saturday's final, which gives her the chance to use her Polish language skills, as the Italian's mother is from Poland. "I try to speak in Polish, but it's not easy. I'm a little bit shy because I'm not feeling really confident in it," Paolini said. "But of course, when I see her, I say congratulations for the title she can win. She does the same. She congratulated me after Dubai." Paolini will go into the final full of confidence as she has also reached the women's doubles semi-finals at Roland Garros. "To step on court and to believe that you can win, it's a totally different way to see the match," Paolini said. "When you are not confident, it's a little bit more complicated in tennis, because it's a really mental sport."

French Open: Italy's Jasmine Paolini in dreamland after reaching first-ever Grand Slam final

<p>Fourth seed Alexander Zverev kept his bid for an elusive first Grand Slam title alive by reaching a fourth straight semi-final at the French Open with a 6-4 7-6(5) 6-4 victory over 11th-seeded Australian Alex de Minaur on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Zverev will play seventh seed Casper Ruud in the last-four after holder Novak Djokovic's withdrawal from the other quarter-final with a knee injury, and the German got there after some testing moments midway through the clash.</p>

<p>The former U.S. Open runner-up took control and claimed the see-sawing first set after a crucial break in the seventh game, but was dragged into a dogfight in the next after the duo swapped serves again and went to a tiebreak.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-french-open-jasmine-paolini-downs-elena-rybakina-to-secure-semifinal-spot-729110">French Open: Jasmine Paolini downs Elena Rybakina to secure semifinal spot</a></strong></p>

<p>Zverev fought from 4-0 down in the tiebreak and reached set point after a breathless 39-shot rally, doubling his lead in the contest shortly after and soaking up the applause from the Court Philippe Chatrier crowd.</p>

<p>De Minaur gifted his opponent a break and a 4-2 lead with a double fault but battled tenaciously to recover it three games later, only to surrender serve again with Zverev closing out the victory thanks to an unforced error.</p>


Fourth seed Alexander Zverev kept his bid for an elusive first Grand Slam title alive by reaching a fourth straight semi-final at the French Open with a 6-4 7-6(5) 6-4 victory over 11th-seeded Australian Alex de Minaur on Wednesday.

Fourth seed Alexander Zverev kept his bid for an elusive first Grand Slam title alive by reaching a fourth straight semi-final at the French Open with a 6-4 7-6(5) 6-4 victory over 11th-seeded Australian Alex de Minaur on Wednesday. Zverev will play seventh seed Casper Ruud in the last-four after holder Novak Djokovic's withdrawal from the other quarter-final with a knee injury, and the German got there after some testing moments midway through the clash. The former U.S. Open runner-up took control and claimed the see-sawing first set after a crucial break in the seventh game, but was dragged into a dogfight in the next after the duo swapped serves again and went to a tiebreak. Also read: French Open: Jasmine Paolini downs Elena Rybakina to secure semifinal spot Zverev fought from 4-0 down in the tiebreak and reached set point after a breathless 39-shot rally, doubling his lead in the contest shortly after and soaking up the applause from the Court Philippe Chatrier crowd. De Minaur gifted his opponent a break and a 4-2 lead with a double fault but battled tenaciously to recover it three games later, only to surrender serve again with Zverev closing out the victory thanks to an unforced error.

Alexander Zverev downs Alex De Minaur and returns to French Open semifinals

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<p>Novak Djokovic has undergone a successful surgery following the knee injury he suffered in the round of 16 clash at the French Open on Monday (Jun 3).</p>

<p>Djokovic took to his social media handles and posted a picture of himself on crutches while&nbsp;surrounded by friends, family and team members.</p>

<p>"In the past day, I had to make some tough decisions after sustaining a meniscus tear during my last match," wrote Djokovic.</p>

<p>"I’m still processing it all but I am happy to update you that the surgery went well. I am so appreciative of the team of doctors who have been by my side as well as the overwhelming support I have received from my fans," he further wrote.</p>

<p>Post the five-setter match against Argentina's Francisco Cerundolo, the Serbian underwent a MRI scan which showed he had a “torn medial meniscus in his right knee”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I am really sad to announce that I have to withdraw from Roland Garros. I played with my heart and gave my all in yesterday’s match and unfortunately, due to a medial meniscus tear in my right knee, my team and I had to make a tough decision after careful consideration and consultation," said Djokovic at the time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, after the surgery, the 27-year-old said that he was going to try his "best to be healthy" in an attempt to return to the tennis court as soon possible.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"My love for this sport is strong and the desire to compete at the highest level is what keeps me going. Idemooo."</p>

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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-french-open-novak-djokovic-pulls-out-of-grand-slam-due-to-knee-injury-728724"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Defending champion Novak Djokovic forced by knee injury</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Djokovic breaks silence</strong></h2>

<p>Djokovic's statement comes a day after&nbsp;Bozidar Maljkovic, the president of the Olympic Committee of Serbia cast aspersions over his injury.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“My son follows the French press every day. The French wrote in very serious media that Novak Djokovic had an operation,” Maljkovic said.</p>

<p>“We called [Djokovic’s] uncle, but we received information that he did not. I would not like to speculate," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite the surgery, Djokovic's participation in the Wimbledon remains a major doubt as the tournament gets underway on July 1.</p>

<p>Later in the same month, the Olympics kickstart in Paris and Djokovic would be hoping to participate in the quadrennial event as an Olympic gold medal is one of the rare honours he has not won in the sport yet.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Novak Djokovic has undergone a successful surgery following the knee injury he suffered in the round of 16 clash at the French Open on Monday (Jun 3). Djokovic took to his social media handles and posted a picture of himself on crutches while surrounded by friends, family and team members.

Novak Djokovic has undergone a successful surgery following the knee injury he suffered in the round of 16 clash at the French Open on Monday (Jun 3). Djokovic took to his social media handles and posted a picture of himself on crutches while surrounded by friends, family and team members. "In the past day, I had to make some tough decisions after sustaining a meniscus tear during my last match," wrote Djokovic. "I’m still processing it all but I am happy to update you that the surgery went well. I am so appreciative of the team of doctors who have been by my side as well as the overwhelming support I have received from my fans," he further wrote. Post the five-setter match against Argentina's Francisco Cerundolo, the Serbian underwent a MRI scan which showed he had a “torn medial meniscus in his right knee”. "I am really sad to announce that I have to withdraw from Roland Garros. I played with my heart and gave my all in yesterday’s match and unfortunately, due to a medial meniscus tear in my right knee, my team and I had to make a tough decision after careful consideration and consultation," said Djokovic at the time. However, after the surgery, the 27-year-old said that he was going to try his "best to be healthy" in an attempt to return to the tennis court as soon possible. "My love for this sport is strong and the desire to compete at the highest level is what keeps me going. Idemooo." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Novak Djokovic (@djokernole) × Also read | Defending champion Novak Djokovic forced by knee injury Djokovic breaks silence Djokovic's statement comes a day after Bozidar Maljkovic, the president of the Olympic Committee of Serbia cast aspersions over his injury. “My son follows the French press every day. The French wrote in very serious media that Novak Djokovic had an operation,” Maljkovic said. “We called [Djokovic’s] uncle, but we received information that he did not. I would not like to speculate," he added. Despite the surgery, Djokovic's participation in the Wimbledon remains a major doubt as the tournament gets underway on July 1. Later in the same month, the Olympics kickstart in Paris and Djokovic would be hoping to participate in the quadrennial event as an Olympic gold medal is one of the rare honours he has not won in the sport yet. (With inputs from agencies)

Novak Djokovic injury update: Star player seen on crutches post French Open exit

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<p>Russian teenager Mirra Andreeva became the youngest Grand Slam semi-finalist since 1997 with a shock victory over second seed Aryna Sabalenka, who was struggling with an apparent illness, at the French Open on Wednesday (June 5).</p>

<p>The 17-year-old fought back from a set down against her ailing opponent to win 6-7 (5/7), 6-4, 6-4 after two hours and 29 minutes and set up a last-four meeting with Italy's Jasmine Paolini.</p>

<p>Andreeva, aged 17 and 29 days, is the youngest woman to make the semis at a major event since Martina Hingis at the US Open 27 years ago and also the youngest at Roland Garros since Hingis in 1997.</p>

<p>"Honestly I was really nervous before the match, I knew she'd have an advantage," said Andreeva, who had lost both her previous meetings with Sabalenka in straight sets.</p>

<p>"I see the game, I play whenever I want, I don't really have a plan. When I see an open space on the court I try to play, I try to play behind her back or something like this."</p>

<p>"Me and my coach, we had a plan today but again I didn't remember anything. I just try to play as I feel."</p>

<p>She will fancy her chances of going all the way to the final when she faces Paolini, who had never got past the second round at a Grand Slam before this year, on Thursday.</p>

<p>Sabalenka called for multiple medical time-outs as she complained of not feeling well and Andreeva, playing in her maiden Slam quarter-final, eventually took advantage with a composed display.</p>

<p>Two-time Australian Open champion Sabalenka had powered through the first four rounds but was clearly having difficulties, breathing heavily between points.</p>

<p>Andreeva, currently ranked 38th, had already secured a breakthrough into the world's top 30 with her run to the last eight, and is now poised to rise further.</p>

<p>Tournament favourite Iga Swiatek plays US Open champion Coco Gauff in the other semi-final.</p>

<p>Sabalenka had been targeting a seventh straight Slam semi-final and had won 11 consecutive matches at the majors following her second Melbourne title earlier this year.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-french-open-jasmine-paolini-downs-elena-rybakina-to-secure-semifinal-spot-729110"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;French Open: Jasmine Paolini downs Elena Rybakina to secure semifinal spot</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Sabalenka toils</strong></h2>

<p>It was immediately clear that Sabalenka was not at her best, as she made four double-faults across her opening two service games.</p>

<p>But Andreeva suffered from nerves in key moments, failing to serve out the first set when leading 5-4, before Sabalenka rallied to take a tie-break.</p>

<p>It appeared as though Sabalenka would race away from her young rival, the youngest woman to make the quarter-finals since 2005 -- when she broke in the first game of the second set.</p>

<p>But Andreeva hit straight back, with Sabalenka continuing to shake her head and crouch down between points in apparent pain.</p>

<p>The pair traded breaks once more before Sabalenka again called for the trainer, saying she needed "something to make me feel better".</p>

<p>Andreeva was starting to get on top and levelled the match on her second set point as Sabalenka dumped a tired backhand into the bottom of the net.</p>

<p>Sabalenka was still grimacing and complaining towards her box early in the third set, but suddenly found her groove to break to love for a 3-2 advantage.</p>

<p>She could not back it up with a hold, though, as Andreeva quickly drew level and then moved 5-4 ahead.</p>

<p>Sabalenka failed to extend the contest behind her own serve as Andreeva sealed a famous victory in fine style, with a magnificent lob from way behind the baseline.</p>


Russian teenager Mirra Andreeva became the youngest Grand Slam semi-finalist since 1997 with a shock victory over second seed Aryna Sabalenka, who was struggling with an apparent illness, at the French Open on Wednesday (June 5).

Russian teenager Mirra Andreeva became the youngest Grand Slam semi-finalist since 1997 with a shock victory over second seed Aryna Sabalenka, who was struggling with an apparent illness, at the French Open on Wednesday (June 5). The 17-year-old fought back from a set down against her ailing opponent to win 6-7 (5/7), 6-4, 6-4 after two hours and 29 minutes and set up a last-four meeting with Italy's Jasmine Paolini. Andreeva, aged 17 and 29 days, is the youngest woman to make the semis at a major event since Martina Hingis at the US Open 27 years ago and also the youngest at Roland Garros since Hingis in 1997. "Honestly I was really nervous before the match, I knew she'd have an advantage," said Andreeva, who had lost both her previous meetings with Sabalenka in straight sets. "I see the game, I play whenever I want, I don't really have a plan. When I see an open space on the court I try to play, I try to play behind her back or something like this." "Me and my coach, we had a plan today but again I didn't remember anything. I just try to play as I feel." She will fancy her chances of going all the way to the final when she faces Paolini, who had never got past the second round at a Grand Slam before this year, on Thursday. Sabalenka called for multiple medical time-outs as she complained of not feeling well and Andreeva, playing in her maiden Slam quarter-final, eventually took advantage with a composed display. Two-time Australian Open champion Sabalenka had powered through the first four rounds but was clearly having difficulties, breathing heavily between points. Andreeva, currently ranked 38th, had already secured a breakthrough into the world's top 30 with her run to the last eight, and is now poised to rise further. Tournament favourite Iga Swiatek plays US Open champion Coco Gauff in the other semi-final. Sabalenka had been targeting a seventh straight Slam semi-final and had won 11 consecutive matches at the majors following her second Melbourne title earlier this year. Also read | French Open: Jasmine Paolini downs Elena Rybakina to secure semifinal spot Sabalenka toils It was immediately clear that Sabalenka was not at her best, as she made four double-faults across her opening two service games. But Andreeva suffered from nerves in key moments, failing to serve out the first set when leading 5-4, before Sabalenka rallied to take a tie-break. It appeared as though Sabalenka would race away from her young rival, the youngest woman to make the quarter-finals since 2005 -- when she broke in the first game of the second set. But Andreeva hit straight back, with Sabalenka continuing to shake her head and crouch down between points in apparent pain. The pair traded breaks once more before Sabalenka again called for the trainer, saying she needed "something to make me feel better". Andreeva was starting to get on top and levelled the match on her second set point as Sabalenka dumped a tired backhand into the bottom of the net. Sabalenka was still grimacing and complaining towards her box early in the third set, but suddenly found her groove to break to love for a 3-2 advantage. She could not back it up with a hold, though, as Andreeva quickly drew level and then moved 5-4 ahead. Sabalenka failed to extend the contest behind her own serve as Andreeva sealed a famous victory in fine style, with a magnificent lob from way behind the baseline.

French Open: Teenage Andreeva knocks out Sabalenka to become youngest Grand Slam semi-finalist since 1997

<p>Italy's Jasmine Paolini reached her first Grand Slam semi-final at the French Open on Wednesday (Jun 5) after dumping out fourth seed Elena Rybakina 6-2, 4-6, 6-4.</p>

<p>Paolini, seeded 12th, is enjoying the best season of her career at the age of 28 and will play two-time Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka or 17-year-old Mirra Andreeva for a spot in the final.<br />
<br />
"It's an unbelievable feeling," said Paolini, who had never previously made it past the second round at any Grand Slam until this year.</p>

<p>She had two points for a 5-3 lead on her serve in the second set but had to regroup after former Wimbledon champion Rybakina rallied to take the match to a deciding set.</p>

<p>"It was a really tough match. I was a bit too emotional in the second set.</p>

<p>"I said to myself 'ok, it is good'. She (Rybakina) is a great champion so it can happen. I tried to hit every ball and it worked, I am here."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-french-open-novak-djokovic-pulls-out-of-grand-slam-due-to-knee-injury-728724"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Defending champion Novak Djokovic forced by knee injury to withdraw from French Open</strong></a></p>

<p>She had won a total of four matches in 16 Grand Slam appearances before advancing to the fourth round of the Australian Open in January.</p>

<p>Now she is two wins away in her unlikely quest to emulate compatriot Francesca Schiavone, who won the 2010 French Open.</p>

<p>Paolini's victory also means there are Italian players in the semi-finals of both the men's and women's singles of the same Grand Slam for the first time in the Open era.&nbsp;</p>


Italy's Jasmine Paolini reached her first Grand Slam semi-final at the French Open on Wednesday (Jun 5) after dumping out fourth seed Elena Rybakina 6-2, 4-6, 6-4.

Italy's Jasmine Paolini reached her first Grand Slam semi-final at the French Open on Wednesday (Jun 5) after dumping out fourth seed Elena Rybakina 6-2, 4-6, 6-4. Paolini, seeded 12th, is enjoying the best season of her career at the age of 28 and will play two-time Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka or 17-year-old Mirra Andreeva for a spot in the final. "It's an unbelievable feeling," said Paolini, who had never previously made it past the second round at any Grand Slam until this year. She had two points for a 5-3 lead on her serve in the second set but had to regroup after former Wimbledon champion Rybakina rallied to take the match to a deciding set. "It was a really tough match. I was a bit too emotional in the second set. "I said to myself 'ok, it is good'. She (Rybakina) is a great champion so it can happen. I tried to hit every ball and it worked, I am here." Also read | Defending champion Novak Djokovic forced by knee injury to withdraw from French Open She had won a total of four matches in 16 Grand Slam appearances before advancing to the fourth round of the Australian Open in January. Now she is two wins away in her unlikely quest to emulate compatriot Francesca Schiavone, who won the 2010 French Open. Paolini's victory also means there are Italian players in the semi-finals of both the men's and women's singles of the same Grand Slam for the first time in the Open era.

French Open: Jasmine Paolini downs Elena Rybakina to secure semifinal spot

<p>Jannik Sinner powered past Grigor Dimitrov in straight sets on Tuesday (Jun 4) to reach his first French Open semi-final, having struggled at the Grand Slam the past two years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Australian Open champion, who will become world number one next week after Novak Djokovic's withdrawal from the tournament, eased to a 6-2, 6-4, 7-6 (7/3) victory and will take on either Alcaraz or Stefanos Tsitsipas in the last four.</p>

<p>Sinner's achievement of becoming Italy's first number one in the sport was secured during his match, as the injury-enforced withdrawal of Djokovic was announced.</p>

<p>"What can I say?" said the 22-year-old.</p>

<p>"It's every player's dream to become number one in the world. On the other hand, seeing Novak retiring (from the tournament) is disappointing, so I wish him a speedy recovery."</p>

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<p>Sinner already knew that he could take the number-one berth by reaching the final at Roland Garros.</p>

<p>He has enjoyed a fine season, also winning the Rotterdam and Miami Opens in addition to his maiden Grand Slam title in Melbourne.</p>

<p>"I'm trying not to think about it too much as this has been a tournament I've struggled in the last couple of years so I'm very happy to be in the semi-finals," Sinner added.</p>

<p>"It's a special moment for me...for people watching in Italy. Let's see on Friday what I can do."</p>

<p>Sinner's win-loss record this year now stands at an impressive 33-2, his only two defeats this season coming against Alcaraz in the Indian Wells semi-finals and Tsitsipas in the Monte Carlo last four.</p>

<p>If Sinner is to reach a second successive major final, he will have to overcome Alcaraz, against whom he shares a 4-4 head-to-head record, or Tsitsipas, who he has lost to six times in nine meetings.</p>

<p>Alcaraz faces former Roland Garros runner-up Tsitsipas in Tuesday's night session.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-french-open-novak-djokovic-pulls-out-of-grand-slam-due-to-knee-injury-728724"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Defending champion Novak Djokovic forced to withdraw from French Open</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Sinner dominates&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Bulgarian 10th seed Dimitrov was playing in the quarter-finals for the first time on his 14th French Open appearance, and was largely outplayed despite a brief late rally.</p>

<p>Sinner eased to the opening set, breaking twice and losing just four points behind his serve.</p>

<p>He broke again in the first game of the second set and comfortably held from then on to move closer to the semis.</p>

<p>It was a similar story for much of the third, as Sinner set up the chance to serve for the match when leading 5-4, but Dimitrov finally put him under pressure to level the set.</p>

<p>The second seed gathered himself, though, to force a tie-break, which he dominated to add another career first on an already landmark day for himself and Italian tennis.</p>

<p>"My performance was solid, a little bit of tension when I was serving for the match which is normal, but I'm very happy to be in the semi-finals," he said.</p>


Jannik Sinner powered past Grigor Dimitrov in straight sets on Tuesday (Jun 4) to reach his first French Open semi-final, having struggled at the Grand Slam the past two years.

Jannik Sinner powered past Grigor Dimitrov in straight sets on Tuesday (Jun 4) to reach his first French Open semi-final, having struggled at the Grand Slam the past two years. The Australian Open champion, who will become world number one next week after Novak Djokovic's withdrawal from the tournament, eased to a 6-2, 6-4, 7-6 (7/3) victory and will take on either Alcaraz or Stefanos Tsitsipas in the last four. Sinner's achievement of becoming Italy's first number one in the sport was secured during his match, as the injury-enforced withdrawal of Djokovic was announced. "What can I say?" said the 22-year-old. "It's every player's dream to become number one in the world. On the other hand, seeing Novak retiring (from the tournament) is disappointing, so I wish him a speedy recovery." Sinner already knew that he could take the number-one berth by reaching the final at Roland Garros. He has enjoyed a fine season, also winning the Rotterdam and Miami Opens in addition to his maiden Grand Slam title in Melbourne. "I'm trying not to think about it too much as this has been a tournament I've struggled in the last couple of years so I'm very happy to be in the semi-finals," Sinner added. "It's a special moment for me...for people watching in Italy. Let's see on Friday what I can do." Sinner's win-loss record this year now stands at an impressive 33-2, his only two defeats this season coming against Alcaraz in the Indian Wells semi-finals and Tsitsipas in the Monte Carlo last four. If Sinner is to reach a second successive major final, he will have to overcome Alcaraz, against whom he shares a 4-4 head-to-head record, or Tsitsipas, who he has lost to six times in nine meetings. Alcaraz faces former Roland Garros runner-up Tsitsipas in Tuesday's night session. Also read | Defending champion Novak Djokovic forced to withdraw from French Open Sinner dominates Bulgarian 10th seed Dimitrov was playing in the quarter-finals for the first time on his 14th French Open appearance, and was largely outplayed despite a brief late rally. Sinner eased to the opening set, breaking twice and losing just four points behind his serve. He broke again in the first game of the second set and comfortably held from then on to move closer to the semis. It was a similar story for much of the third, as Sinner set up the chance to serve for the match when leading 5-4, but Dimitrov finally put him under pressure to level the set. The second seed gathered himself, though, to force a tie-break, which he dominated to add another career first on an already landmark day for himself and Italian tennis. "My performance was solid, a little bit of tension when I was serving for the match which is normal, but I'm very happy to be in the semi-finals," he said.

French Open: Sinner dispatches Dimitrov in straight sets to reach first Roland Garros semi-final

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidDQl1WxzlSHMy" /></p>

<p>Defending champion Novak Djokovic has pulled out of the French Open quarterfinals after suffering a knee injury in the fourth round. Djokovic came back from the brink against&nbsp;Francisco Cerundolo on Monday (Jun 3) in five sets but paid the price for it as his dodgy knee suffered serious damage due to the exertion.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Serbian underwent a MRI scan late on Tuesday afternoon and took the call to withdraw from his quarterfinal clash against Casper Ruud, scheduled for Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Djokovic's scan&nbsp;revealed a “torn medial meniscus in his right knee”, which makes his participation in next month's Wimbledon a serious doubt.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I am really sad to announce that I have to withdraw from Roland Garros. I played with my heart and gave my all in yesterday’s match and unfortunately, due to a medial meniscus tear in my right knee, my team and I had to make a tough decision after careful consideration and consultation," Djokovic wrote on his social media handles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I wish the best of luck to the players competing this week and sincerely thank the incredible fans for all of the love and continued support. See you soon."</p>

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<p>The 24-time Grand Slam winner had hinted after the match against Cerundolo that he might not go the distance as the injury was being looked up by the doctors.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-french-open-novak-djokovic-casts-doubt-on-quarterfinal-participation-as-knee-injury-takes-center-stage-728470"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;French Open: Novak Djokovic casts doubt on quarterfinal participation amid knee injury</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Djokovic's heroic comeback win</strong></h2>

<p>Djokovic, who had been troubled by his knee in the lead-up to the marquee tournament, started the fourth round match in exemplary fashion,&nbsp;breaking the youngster in the fourth game and winning the set.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, early on in the second set,&nbsp;Djokovic felt something in his right leg and called for a medical timeout after moving gingerly across the court. The Serbian could be seen holding his knee during the treatment but returned to an applauding crowd, wanting to see the defending champion give it a serious go.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During one of the few unscheduled&nbsp;breaks in the second set, Djokovic could also be seen having a go at the officials for not&nbsp;mopping up the area near the baseline, which contributed to the injury.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite the injury and being two set down, Djokovic managed to dig deep and emerged victorious with a&nbsp;6-1, 5-7, 3-6, 7-5, 6-3 scoreline.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Djokovic blasts organisers&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Djokovic's injury was aggravated as he played two back-to-back five setters in space of three days. The third round match against&nbsp;Lorenzo Musetti ended at 3:07 am (0107 GMT) on Sunday which was the latest a match has finished at Roland Garros.</p>

<p>Djokovic was not pleased with how officials&nbsp;handled the proceedings and said he had to reach his limits to win the match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I don't want to get into this debate. I think certain things could have been handled differently," said Djokovic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Physically, I really went to my limits to win this match. When you play rallies of more than 20 shots, at two in the morning.... Who plays at two in the morning?" he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Djokovic's withdrawal means Casper Ruud advances to the semifinal where he will face either fourth seed Alexander Zverev or 11th seed Alex de Minaur on Friday.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em>&nbsp;</p>


Defending champion Novak Djokovic has pulled out of the French Open quarterfinals after suffering a knee injury in the fourth round. Djokovic came back from the brink against Francisco Cerundolo on Monday (Jun 3) in five sets but paid the price for it as his dodgy knee suffered serious damage due to the exertion.

Defending champion Novak Djokovic has pulled out of the French Open quarterfinals after suffering a knee injury in the fourth round. Djokovic came back from the brink against Francisco Cerundolo on Monday (Jun 3) in five sets but paid the price for it as his dodgy knee suffered serious damage due to the exertion. The Serbian underwent a MRI scan late on Tuesday afternoon and took the call to withdraw from his quarterfinal clash against Casper Ruud, scheduled for Wednesday. Djokovic's scan revealed a “torn medial meniscus in his right knee”, which makes his participation in next month's Wimbledon a serious doubt. "I am really sad to announce that I have to withdraw from Roland Garros. I played with my heart and gave my all in yesterday’s match and unfortunately, due to a medial meniscus tear in my right knee, my team and I had to make a tough decision after careful consideration and consultation," Djokovic wrote on his social media handles. "I wish the best of luck to the players competing this week and sincerely thank the incredible fans for all of the love and continued support. See you soon." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Novak Djokovic (@djokernole) × The 24-time Grand Slam winner had hinted after the match against Cerundolo that he might not go the distance as the injury was being looked up by the doctors. Also read | French Open: Novak Djokovic casts doubt on quarterfinal participation amid knee injury Djokovic's heroic comeback win Djokovic, who had been troubled by his knee in the lead-up to the marquee tournament, started the fourth round match in exemplary fashion, breaking the youngster in the fourth game and winning the set. However, early on in the second set, Djokovic felt something in his right leg and called for a medical timeout after moving gingerly across the court. The Serbian could be seen holding his knee during the treatment but returned to an applauding crowd, wanting to see the defending champion give it a serious go. During one of the few unscheduled breaks in the second set, Djokovic could also be seen having a go at the officials for not mopping up the area near the baseline, which contributed to the injury. Despite the injury and being two set down, Djokovic managed to dig deep and emerged victorious with a 6-1, 5-7, 3-6, 7-5, 6-3 scoreline. Djokovic blasts organisers Djokovic's injury was aggravated as he played two back-to-back five setters in space of three days. The third round match against Lorenzo Musetti ended at 3:07 am (0107 GMT) on Sunday which was the latest a match has finished at Roland Garros. Djokovic was not pleased with how officials handled the proceedings and said he had to reach his limits to win the match. "I don't want to get into this debate. I think certain things could have been handled differently," said Djokovic. "Physically, I really went to my limits to win this match. When you play rallies of more than 20 shots, at two in the morning.... Who plays at two in the morning?" he added. Djokovic's withdrawal means Casper Ruud advances to the semifinal where he will face either fourth seed Alexander Zverev or 11th seed Alex de Minaur on Friday. (With inputs from agencies)

Defending champion Novak Djokovic forced by knee injury to withdraw from French Open

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<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuido9hgUzcr987Z" /></p>

<p>Novak Djokovic came back from the brink to secure a famous fourth-round win at the French Open against Francisco Cerundolo on Monday (June 3). The Serbian played another five-set thriller that lasted four hour and 39 minutes in front of a packed Philippe Chatrier court, a day after serenading them with another 3 am finish - the latest in the&nbsp;history of Roland Garros.</p>

<p>The short turnaround meant Djokovic could not recover from the physical exertion and had to dig deep to ultimately emerge victorious with the scoreline reading&nbsp;6-1, 5-7, 3-6, 7-5, 6-3 against the Argentinian who missed out on the golden opportunity to kill the game when he had the chance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Three or four times I was points away from losing this match and thank you to my opponent," said Djokovic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He [Cerundolo] deserves so much applause that's for sure. I'm not sure how I won this match again," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 24-time Grand Slam winner started off the match in an impressive manner, breaking the youngster in the fourth game. Djokovic went on to secure the set but&nbsp;Cerundolo found some rhythm at the end which he carried into the subsequent sets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Early on in the second set, Djokovic felt something in his left leg and called for a medical timeout after moving gingerly across the court. The Serbian could be seen holding his knee during the treatment but returned to an applauding crowd, wanting to see the defending champion give it a serious go.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Serbian lost considerable edge after the treatment as he started off with a double fault. However, he managed to hold his serve up until the 12th game where&nbsp;Cerundolo converted the 13th break point of the match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During one of the few unscheduled&nbsp;breaks in the second set, Djokovic could also be seen having a go at the officials for not&nbsp;mopping up the area near the baseline.</p>

<p>The third set brought more misery for Djokovic&nbsp;as&nbsp;Cerundolo constructed the points beautifully, leaving the former in no man's land on most of the returns. The usually combative Djokovic could not compete and lost the set rather tamely.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-french-open-things-couldve-been-handled-djokovic-unhappy-with-roland-garros-officials-after-3-am-finish-728045"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;French Open: ‘Things could have...,’ Djokovic unhappy with Roland Garros officials after 3 am finish</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>The comeback</strong></h2>

<p>When it looked like the end of the road for him, Djokovic managed to reignite his spark and&nbsp;broke Cerundolo in the eighth game of the fourth set. The Argentine, who was so close to an improbable victory, could not wrestle the momentum from thereon as Djokovic went on to take the set for a grandstand finish to the match.</p>

<p>The final set lived up to its billing as both players broke each other early in the set before Djokovic asserted himself. Despite taking a rough tumble in the clay and having another go at the officials, Djokovic managed to hold his own to&nbsp;set up a quarter-final clash against either Taylor Fritz or Casper Ruud.</p>

<p>The victory gave him a record 370th Grand Slam win, eclipsing the mark he had shared with Roger Federer.</p>


Novak Djokovic came back from the brink to secure a famous fourth-round win at the French Open against Francisco Cerundolo on Monday (June 3). The Serbian played another five-set thriller that lasted four hour and 39 minutes in front of a packed Philippe Chatrier court, a day after serenading them with another 3 am finish - the latest in the history of Roland Garros.

Novak Djokovic came back from the brink to secure a famous fourth-round win at the French Open against Francisco Cerundolo on Monday (June 3). The Serbian played another five-set thriller that lasted four hour and 39 minutes in front of a packed Philippe Chatrier court, a day after serenading them with another 3 am finish - the latest in the history of Roland Garros. The short turnaround meant Djokovic could not recover from the physical exertion and had to dig deep to ultimately emerge victorious with the scoreline reading 6-1, 5-7, 3-6, 7-5, 6-3 against the Argentinian who missed out on the golden opportunity to kill the game when he had the chance. "Three or four times I was points away from losing this match and thank you to my opponent," said Djokovic. "He [Cerundolo] deserves so much applause that's for sure. I'm not sure how I won this match again," he added. The 24-time Grand Slam winner started off the match in an impressive manner, breaking the youngster in the fourth game. Djokovic went on to secure the set but Cerundolo found some rhythm at the end which he carried into the subsequent sets. Early on in the second set, Djokovic felt something in his left leg and called for a medical timeout after moving gingerly across the court. The Serbian could be seen holding his knee during the treatment but returned to an applauding crowd, wanting to see the defending champion give it a serious go. The Serbian lost considerable edge after the treatment as he started off with a double fault. However, he managed to hold his serve up until the 12th game where Cerundolo converted the 13th break point of the match. During one of the few unscheduled breaks in the second set, Djokovic could also be seen having a go at the officials for not mopping up the area near the baseline. The third set brought more misery for Djokovic as Cerundolo constructed the points beautifully, leaving the former in no man's land on most of the returns. The usually combative Djokovic could not compete and lost the set rather tamely. Also read | French Open: ‘Things could have...,’ Djokovic unhappy with Roland Garros officials after 3 am finish The comeback When it looked like the end of the road for him, Djokovic managed to reignite his spark and broke Cerundolo in the eighth game of the fourth set. The Argentine, who was so close to an improbable victory, could not wrestle the momentum from thereon as Djokovic went on to take the set for a grandstand finish to the match. The final set lived up to its billing as both players broke each other early in the set before Djokovic asserted himself. Despite taking a rough tumble in the clay and having another go at the officials, Djokovic managed to hold his own to set up a quarter-final clash against either Taylor Fritz or Casper Ruud. The victory gave him a record 370th Grand Slam win, eclipsing the mark he had shared with Roger Federer.

French Open: Injured Novak Djokovic comes back from the brink to settle another five-set thriller

<p>World number one Iga Swiatek continued her dominant run at the 2024 French Open with an easy win over Marketa Vondrousova in the quarterfinal match on Tuesday (June 4). Swiatek didn't break much sweat as she went past the Czech Republic player Vondrousova in straight sets, winning 6-0, 6-2. The defending champion will now lock horns with Coco Gauff in the semifinals,&nbsp;against whom she has an impeccable record. The high-voltage clash will be held on Thursday (June 6).</p>

<p>Talking about the contest, Vondrousova never looked threatening enough in front of Swaitek. The No. 1 ranked player didn't give her opposition any chance as she won the opening set 6-0.&nbsp;While the Czech did get on board in the second and penultimate set following a rare Swiatek mistake and earned a break point in the next game, however, it wasn't enough to prevent her ruthless rival. With the win, Swiatek extended her winning run on clay to 17 games.</p>

<p>Swiatek also improved her career record in Paris to 33-2. In addition, the 23-year-old is on the cusp to become the first woman to lift the Coupe Suzanne Lenglen three years in a row (since Justine Henin who achieved the feat from 2005-07).</p>

<p>After the match, Swiatekn told, "Honestly I think everything worked. I feel like I've been serving better than in previous rounds and that gave me an extra boost of confidence. Today it was pretty straightforward. I'm happy I kept my focus. I felt like I was in the zone today."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-french-open-2024-coco-gauff-scripts-remarkable-comeback-to-beat-ons-jabeur-and-enter-semifinals-728654">French Open 2024: Coco Gauff scripts remarkable comeback to beat Ons Jabeur and enter semifinals</a></strong></p>

<p>The Poland player has lost only one set in this year's French Open and, thus, will start as overwhelming favourite versus Gauff in the semifinal fixture. On the other hand, Gauff has lost 10 of her previous 11 meetings with Swaitek, all in straight sets, including the 2022 French Open final. Thus, the American will have her back against the wall and needs a herculean task to go past a rampant Swiatek.</p>


World number one Iga Swiatek continued her dominant run at the 2024 French Open with an easy win over Marketa Vondrousova in the quarterfinal match on Tuesday (June 4).

World number one Iga Swiatek continued her dominant run at the 2024 French Open with an easy win over Marketa Vondrousova in the quarterfinal match on Tuesday (June 4). Swiatek didn't break much sweat as she went past the Czech Republic player Vondrousova in straight sets, winning 6-0, 6-2. The defending champion will now lock horns with Coco Gauff in the semifinals, against whom she has an impeccable record. The high-voltage clash will be held on Thursday (June 6). Talking about the contest, Vondrousova never looked threatening enough in front of Swaitek. The No. 1 ranked player didn't give her opposition any chance as she won the opening set 6-0. While the Czech did get on board in the second and penultimate set following a rare Swiatek mistake and earned a break point in the next game, however, it wasn't enough to prevent her ruthless rival. With the win, Swiatek extended her winning run on clay to 17 games. Swiatek also improved her career record in Paris to 33-2. In addition, the 23-year-old is on the cusp to become the first woman to lift the Coupe Suzanne Lenglen three years in a row (since Justine Henin who achieved the feat from 2005-07). After the match, Swiatekn told, "Honestly I think everything worked. I feel like I've been serving better than in previous rounds and that gave me an extra boost of confidence. Today it was pretty straightforward. I'm happy I kept my focus. I felt like I was in the zone today." Also read: French Open 2024: Coco Gauff scripts remarkable comeback to beat Ons Jabeur and enter semifinals The Poland player has lost only one set in this year's French Open and, thus, will start as overwhelming favourite versus Gauff in the semifinal fixture. On the other hand, Gauff has lost 10 of her previous 11 meetings with Swaitek, all in straight sets, including the 2022 French Open final. Thus, the American will have her back against the wall and needs a herculean task to go past a rampant Swiatek.

French Open: Defending champion Iga Swiatek crushes Marketa Vondrousova to storm into semifinals

<p>World number three Coco Gauff scripted a remakrable comeback, from a set down, to beat Tunisia's Ons Jabeur in her quarterfinal match at the 2024 French Open on Tuesday (June 4). With this, the American star&nbsp;reached her second French Open semifinal. Gauff, the reigning US Open champion and a former Roland Garros runner-up, defeated Jabuer&nbsp;4-6, 6-2, 6-3 on Court Philippe Chatrier to storm into the last four. She will face either defending champion Iga Swiatek or Marketa Vondrousova for a place in the final.</p>

<p>Gauff had a nervy start and lost a tight opening set 4-6. However, she came into her own in the following two sets as Jabeur lost the momentum. The 20-year-old broke Jabeur's serve three times in the second set to force a decider. The youngster&nbsp;attained a crucial break in game four and achieved a win on her third match point, as her opponent fired a simple smash wide, to become the first semifinalist of the 2024 edition at the Roland Garros.</p>

<p>After the match, Gauff told the crowd, "She's (Jabuer) a tough opponent and she's well loved on tour and I could tell by the crowd you guys wanted her to win. When I'm not playing, I do too." She further stated, "I like playing in atmospheres like this. I know you wanted her to win but even when I was in the bathroom, I was thinking this is really fun, win or lose."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-french-open-injured-novak-djokovic-comes-back-from-the-brink-to-settle-another-four-hour-thriller-728454">French Open: Injured Novak Djokovic comes back from the brink to settle another five-set thriller</a></strong></p>

<p>Gauff further added, "Today I was trying to be aggressive towards the end and I got a little bit tight on the couple of match points but I think I did what I needed to do to win the match." The young sensation will be confident going ahead, having beaten Jabeur with her aggressive serves.</p>

<p>Talking about Jabeur, the eighth-seed&nbsp;is awaits her maiden major title, having lost three finals and four quarterfinals. She had a chance to enter the top four after a lead versus Gauff, however, the 29-year-old missed a golden opportunity -- mainly for not being able to cut out her unforced errors on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>


World number three Coco Gauff scripted a remakrable comeback, from a set down, to beat Tunisia's Ons Jabeur in her quarterfinal match at the 2024 French Open on Tuesday (June 4).

World number three Coco Gauff scripted a remakrable comeback, from a set down, to beat Tunisia's Ons Jabeur in her quarterfinal match at the 2024 French Open on Tuesday (June 4). With this, the American star reached her second French Open semifinal. Gauff, the reigning US Open champion and a former Roland Garros runner-up, defeated Jabuer 4-6, 6-2, 6-3 on Court Philippe Chatrier to storm into the last four. She will face either defending champion Iga Swiatek or Marketa Vondrousova for a place in the final. Gauff had a nervy start and lost a tight opening set 4-6. However, she came into her own in the following two sets as Jabeur lost the momentum. The 20-year-old broke Jabeur's serve three times in the second set to force a decider. The youngster attained a crucial break in game four and achieved a win on her third match point, as her opponent fired a simple smash wide, to become the first semifinalist of the 2024 edition at the Roland Garros. After the match, Gauff told the crowd, "She's (Jabuer) a tough opponent and she's well loved on tour and I could tell by the crowd you guys wanted her to win. When I'm not playing, I do too." She further stated, "I like playing in atmospheres like this. I know you wanted her to win but even when I was in the bathroom, I was thinking this is really fun, win or lose." Also read: French Open: Injured Novak Djokovic comes back from the brink to settle another five-set thriller Gauff further added, "Today I was trying to be aggressive towards the end and I got a little bit tight on the couple of match points but I think I did what I needed to do to win the match." The young sensation will be confident going ahead, having beaten Jabeur with her aggressive serves. Talking about Jabeur, the eighth-seed is awaits her maiden major title, having lost three finals and four quarterfinals. She had a chance to enter the top four after a lead versus Gauff, however, the 29-year-old missed a golden opportunity -- mainly for not being able to cut out her unforced errors on Tuesday.

French Open 2024: Coco Gauff scripts remarkable comeback to beat Ons Jabeur and enter semifinals

<p>Alex de Minuar beat Daniil Medvedev in the fourth-round match on the French Open 2024 edition on Monday (June 3). Medvedev made a promising start to the clash, however, lost the plot&nbsp;soon to allow Australia's de Minuar a comeback. Eventually, the Aussie youngster won 4-6, 6-2, 6-1, 6-3 to stage a remarkable comeback and sprint ahead in the Roland Garros. With this, De Minuar -- who never went past the second round at the tournament before this year -- will now gear up for a riveting quarterfinal match, having improved his game significantly on clay.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking about the contest, it started on expected note as many had their money on Russian star Medvedev. The fifth-seed, and a six-time Grand Slam finalist, won the opening set 6-4. He looked in good touch. It seemed that former US Open champion would make it to the next round without dropping much sweat. However, his form dipped in the following sets; allowing de Minaur to make a comeback.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jannik-sinner-iga-swiatek-race-to-french-open-quarters-as-scheduling-comes-under-scrutiny-728119">Jannik Sinner, Iga Swiatek race to French Open quarters as scheduling comes under scrutiny</a></strong></p>

<p>The 11th-ranked Australian made a fresh start in the second set and was quick to close it, winning 6-2.&nbsp;The script remained the same in the third set with de Minaur dominating proceedings with his serves and making Medvedev do all the hardyards for each and every point. As a result, the Russian was seen covering a lot of distance on the court and looked&nbsp;clueless. The latter won the third set 6-1. While Medvedev was determined to push the game to the final set and started with a lead in the penultimate one, he soon conceded the momentum to lose 3-6 and bow out.</p>

<p>With this, Medvedev's disappointing run at the Roland Garros continues. For de Minaur, he will now lock horns with either Alexander Zverev or Holger Rune in his second Slam quarterfinal and first since the 2020 US Open.</p>


Alex de Minuar beat Daniil Medvedev in the fourth-round match on the French Open 2024 edition on Monday (June 3). Medvedev made a promising start to the clash, however, lost the plot soon to allow Australia's de Minuar a comeback.

Alex de Minuar beat Daniil Medvedev in the fourth-round match on the French Open 2024 edition on Monday (June 3). Medvedev made a promising start to the clash, however, lost the plot soon to allow Australia's de Minuar a comeback. Eventually, the Aussie youngster won 4-6, 6-2, 6-1, 6-3 to stage a remarkable comeback and sprint ahead in the Roland Garros. With this, De Minuar -- who never went past the second round at the tournament before this year -- will now gear up for a riveting quarterfinal match, having improved his game significantly on clay. Talking about the contest, it started on expected note as many had their money on Russian star Medvedev. The fifth-seed, and a six-time Grand Slam finalist, won the opening set 6-4. He looked in good touch. It seemed that former US Open champion would make it to the next round without dropping much sweat. However, his form dipped in the following sets; allowing de Minaur to make a comeback. Also read: Jannik Sinner, Iga Swiatek race to French Open quarters as scheduling comes under scrutiny The 11th-ranked Australian made a fresh start in the second set and was quick to close it, winning 6-2. The script remained the same in the third set with de Minaur dominating proceedings with his serves and making Medvedev do all the hardyards for each and every point. As a result, the Russian was seen covering a lot of distance on the court and looked clueless. The latter won the third set 6-1. While Medvedev was determined to push the game to the final set and started with a lead in the penultimate one, he soon conceded the momentum to lose 3-6 and bow out. With this, Medvedev's disappointing run at the Roland Garros continues. For de Minaur, he will now lock horns with either Alexander Zverev or Holger Rune in his second Slam quarterfinal and first since the 2020 US Open.

French Open: Alex de Minuar sends Daniil Medvedev packing with impressive win in fourth round

<p>Third-seed Carlos Alcaraz qualified to the quarterfinals with an impressive 6-3, 6-2, 6-1&nbsp;win over Felix Auger-Aliassime who suffered a groin injury, midway through the match. Alcaraz's victory means the stage is set up for a mouth-watering clash against Stefanos Tsitsipas for a place in the semi-finals, where the Spaniard was defeated last year by eventual winner, Novak Djokovic.</p>

<p>Alcaraz had a horror start to the match as the Canadian broke him in the first game of the match. However, the two-time Grand Slam winner held his nerves and immediately broke back to assert his dominance.</p>

<p>It was in the eighth game that Alcaraz won the breakpoint after a lengthy 24 shots rally to take advantage in the set and wrap it up on his serve in the next game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Auger-Aliassime started the second set promisingly and managed to stay in the contest. However, a groin issue while returning one of Alcaraz's booming serve meant that he had to seek a medical timeout.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Alcaraz goes for the jugular&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>After taking a lengthy break,&nbsp;Auger-Aliassime did return to the centre court at the Philippe Chatrier in front of an applauding audience but could not get his mojo back.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Alcaraz, with the momentum by his side, went after the Canadian and left him in the dust with his effortless court coverage. The Spaniard was particularly impressive in coming up to the net and placing his shots with impeccable&nbsp;precision.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-french-open-things-couldve-been-handled-djokovic-unhappy-with-roland-garros-officials-after-3-am-finish-728045"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;French Open: ‘Things could have...,’ Djokovic unhappy with Roland Garros officials after 3 am finish</strong></a></p>

<p>The third set was a mere formality as&nbsp;Auger-Aliassime dropped his weapons or perhaps was forced to do so as Alcaraz unleashed his full range of shots upon him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I was looking forward to this, I was very happy to win. I felt strong in the rallies, five or six or seven shots in a point. Good intensity and rhythm. He [Auger-Aliassime]&nbsp;leads with his serves and gets a lot of free points," said Alcaraz in the post-match interview.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Alcaraz won in straight sets, Tsitsipas had to overcome a set while battling tiebreaker in the second to finish on the right side of the result against&nbsp;Matteo Arnaldi who had defeated Andrey Rublev in the previous round.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Alcaraz has won all five past encounters, including a straight-sets win over Tsitsipas in the quarter-finals of last year's French Open. However, the Greek, who finished as the runner-up last year, would be hoping to go the distance this time.&nbsp;</p>


Third-seed Carlos Alcaraz qualified to the quarterfinals with an impressive 6-3, 6-2, 6-1 win over Felix Auger-Aliassime who suffered a groin injury, midway through the match.

Third-seed Carlos Alcaraz qualified to the quarterfinals with an impressive 6-3, 6-2, 6-1 win over Felix Auger-Aliassime who suffered a groin injury, midway through the match. Alcaraz's victory means the stage is set up for a mouth-watering clash against Stefanos Tsitsipas for a place in the semi-finals, where the Spaniard was defeated last year by eventual winner, Novak Djokovic. Alcaraz had a horror start to the match as the Canadian broke him in the first game of the match. However, the two-time Grand Slam winner held his nerves and immediately broke back to assert his dominance. It was in the eighth game that Alcaraz won the breakpoint after a lengthy 24 shots rally to take advantage in the set and wrap it up on his serve in the next game. Auger-Aliassime started the second set promisingly and managed to stay in the contest. However, a groin issue while returning one of Alcaraz's booming serve meant that he had to seek a medical timeout. Alcaraz goes for the jugular After taking a lengthy break, Auger-Aliassime did return to the centre court at the Philippe Chatrier in front of an applauding audience but could not get his mojo back. Alcaraz, with the momentum by his side, went after the Canadian and left him in the dust with his effortless court coverage. The Spaniard was particularly impressive in coming up to the net and placing his shots with impeccable precision. Also read | French Open: ‘Things could have...,’ Djokovic unhappy with Roland Garros officials after 3 am finish The third set was a mere formality as Auger-Aliassime dropped his weapons or perhaps was forced to do so as Alcaraz unleashed his full range of shots upon him. "I was looking forward to this, I was very happy to win. I felt strong in the rallies, five or six or seven shots in a point. Good intensity and rhythm. He [Auger-Aliassime] leads with his serves and gets a lot of free points," said Alcaraz in the post-match interview. While Alcaraz won in straight sets, Tsitsipas had to overcome a set while battling tiebreaker in the second to finish on the right side of the result against Matteo Arnaldi who had defeated Andrey Rublev in the previous round. Alcaraz has won all five past encounters, including a straight-sets win over Tsitsipas in the quarter-finals of last year's French Open. However, the Greek, who finished as the runner-up last year, would be hoping to go the distance this time.

French Open: Carlos Alcaraz blows away Auger-Aliassime to set up quarter-final clash against Tsitsipas

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<p>Novak Djokovic was not pleased with how officials at the French Open handled the proceedings after his third round match against&nbsp;Lorenzo Musetti ended at 3:07 am (0107 GMT) on Sunday (Jun 2) morning.</p>

<p>Speaking after the match, the defending champion said "things could have been handled differently" by the Roland Garros officials as both players battled in the tough and cold conditions.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I don't want to get into this debate. I think certain things could have been handled differently," said Djokovic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There is a certain beauty in winning the match at three in the morning if it was the last of the tournament, but this isn't the case," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 24-time Grand Slam winner had to dig deep after being two sets to one down and starting at one of his earliest French Open exits in the last 15 years.</p>

<p>Eventually, Djokovic used his experience and defeated Musetti 7-5, 6-7 (6/8), 2-6, 6-3, 6-0 in a clash which only started just before 10:45 pm (2045 GMT) on Saturday.</p>

<p>"Physically, I really went to my limits to win this match. When you play rallies of more than 20 shots, at two in the morning.... Who plays at two in the morning?," said Djokovic.</p>

<p>"We play few matches in our life at this time. The conditions were very heavy, it was very cold. You didn't have many free points behind your serve."</p>

<p>The delay was caused as organisers squeezed in extra matches on the two main courts that have retractable roofs. The scheduling at this year's French Open has been thrown into a tizzy due to incessant rains as other courts that do not have a roof have seen matches get suspended.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-novak-djokovic-escapes-exit-scare-to-beat-lorenzo-musetti-in-marathon-clash-727957" target="_blank">Also read |&nbsp;French Open: Novak Djokovic escapes exit scare to beat Lorenzo Musetti in marathon clash</a></strong></p>

<h2><b>Short turnaround</b></h2>

<p>Djokovic now has a short turnaround as he must recover to face Argentinian 27th seed&nbsp;Francisco Cerundolo in the round of 16 on Monday (Jun 3).</p>

<p>While Djokovic had to spend four hours and 29 minutes on the court to settle the business, the Grand Slam record for the latest finish remains with the Australian Open where Lleyton Hewitt and Marcos Baghdatis played a match until 4:34 am in 2008.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the US Open in New York, the latest finish was 2:50 am in 2022 when Carlos Alcaraz defeated Jannik Sinner. Meanwhile, Wimbledon operates an 11 pm curfew with the 2012 clash between Andy Murray and Baghdatis ending at a more gentle 11:02 pm.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Novak Djokovic was not pleased with how officials at the French Open handled the proceedings after his third round match against Lorenzo Musetti ended at 3:07 am (0107 GMT) on Sunday (Jun 2) morning.

Novak Djokovic was not pleased with how officials at the French Open handled the proceedings after his third round match against Lorenzo Musetti ended at 3:07 am (0107 GMT) on Sunday (Jun 2) morning. Speaking after the match, the defending champion said "things could have been handled differently" by the Roland Garros officials as both players battled in the tough and cold conditions. "I don't want to get into this debate. I think certain things could have been handled differently," said Djokovic. "There is a certain beauty in winning the match at three in the morning if it was the last of the tournament, but this isn't the case," he added. The 24-time Grand Slam winner had to dig deep after being two sets to one down and starting at one of his earliest French Open exits in the last 15 years. Eventually, Djokovic used his experience and defeated Musetti 7-5, 6-7 (6/8), 2-6, 6-3, 6-0 in a clash which only started just before 10:45 pm (2045 GMT) on Saturday. "Physically, I really went to my limits to win this match. When you play rallies of more than 20 shots, at two in the morning.... Who plays at two in the morning?," said Djokovic. "We play few matches in our life at this time. The conditions were very heavy, it was very cold. You didn't have many free points behind your serve." The delay was caused as organisers squeezed in extra matches on the two main courts that have retractable roofs. The scheduling at this year's French Open has been thrown into a tizzy due to incessant rains as other courts that do not have a roof have seen matches get suspended. Also read | French Open: Novak Djokovic escapes exit scare to beat Lorenzo Musetti in marathon clash Short turnaround Djokovic now has a short turnaround as he must recover to face Argentinian 27th seed Francisco Cerundolo in the round of 16 on Monday (Jun 3). While Djokovic had to spend four hours and 29 minutes on the court to settle the business, the Grand Slam record for the latest finish remains with the Australian Open where Lleyton Hewitt and Marcos Baghdatis played a match until 4:34 am in 2008. At the US Open in New York, the latest finish was 2:50 am in 2022 when Carlos Alcaraz defeated Jannik Sinner. Meanwhile, Wimbledon operates an 11 pm curfew with the 2012 clash between Andy Murray and Baghdatis ending at a more gentle 11:02 pm. (With inputs from agencies)

French Open: ‘Things could have...,’ Djokovic unhappy with Roland Garros officials after 3 am finish

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