Defending Champion Novak Djokovic takes on record 13-time champion Rafael Nadal in the Men's Singles quarter-finals of the French Open today. The two all-time greats are meeting for the 59th time and the first time since Djokovic beat Nadal in the 2021 semi-finals. The former coach of the Indian Davis Cup and Fed Cup teams Enrico Piperno previews the marquee clash with Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo

2022 French Open men's quarterfinal: Djokovic vs Nadal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Teenage sensation Holger Rune outmuscled world number four and last-year's French Open finalist Stefanos Tsitsipas 7-5 3-6 6-3 6-4 on Monday to move into the quarter-finals with his biggest Grand Slam win to date.

The Dane, who has improved more than 350 places in the world rankings in the past 15 months, joins fellow 19-year-old Carlos Alcaraz in the last eight, the first time two teenagers made that stage at a Grand Slam since 1994. "I have an unbelievable feeling. I was so nervous in the end," said a beaming Rune, playing in his first French Open. "I was very nervous. I told myself to keep at it and play my plan. I mean it is so great to still be here."

"Part of the tactic to play as aggressive as possible when he gets shorter balls he attacks them. I really liked playing the drop shots and it worked out pretty good so I am happy." Fourth seed Tsitsipas, hunting for his first ever Grand Slam, started well and broke the Dane to go 3-1 up when Rune`s drop shot was not short enough and the Greek whipped a cross-court winner past him.

Rune, however, broke him twice, clinching the set with a disputed line call that went in his favour. Tsitsipas did not lose his composure and saved three consecutive break points in the very first game of the second set, powering back to seal it.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-2022-novak-djokovic-v-rafael-nadal-put-on-night-session-despite-spaniards-reluctance-483577">French Open 2022: Novak Djokovic v Rafael Nadal put on night session despite Spaniard's reluctance</a>

He did slip up though midway through the third when two double faults and two unforced errors handed Rune a key break and the teenager went 2-1 up in sets when Tsitsipas did well to return a Rune smash but then fired a topspin forehand into the net. The Dane succeeded in getting Tsitsipas out of his comfort zone on the baseline, sending his tall opponent to the net with drop points and stretching him wide off the court with deep cross-court balls.

Rune had three break points at the start of the fourth which the Greek saved but the teen made amends on his opponent`s next two service game to open up a 5-2 lead with a scorching backhand down the line. 
He did show some nerves in the end as Tsitsipas fought back to 5-4 and even had break points but Rune made sure of his big win on the first match point just as the clock ticked past the three hour mark.

Teenage sensation Holger Rune outmuscled world number four and last-year's French Open finalist Stefanos Tsitsipas 7-5 3-6 6-3 6-4 on Monday to move into the quarter-finals with his biggest Grand Slam win to date.

Teenage sensation Holger Rune outmuscled world number four and last-year's French Open finalist Stefanos Tsitsipas 7-5 3-6 6-3 6-4 on Monday to move into the quarter-finals with his biggest Grand Slam win to date. The Dane, who has improved more than 350 places in the world rankings in the past 15 months, joins fellow 19-year-old Carlos Alcaraz in the last eight, the first time two teenagers made that stage at a Grand Slam since 1994. "I have an unbelievable feeling. I was so nervous in the end," said a beaming Rune, playing in his first French Open. "I was very nervous. I told myself to keep at it and play my plan. I mean it is so great to still be here." "Part of the tactic to play as aggressive as possible when he gets shorter balls he attacks them. I really liked playing the drop shots and it worked out pretty good so I am happy." Fourth seed Tsitsipas, hunting for his first ever Grand Slam, started well and broke the Dane to go 3-1 up when Rune`s drop shot was not short enough and the Greek whipped a cross-court winner past him. Rune, however, broke him twice, clinching the set with a disputed line call that went in his favour. Tsitsipas did not lose his composure and saved three consecutive break points in the very first game of the second set, powering back to seal it. ALSO READ | French Open 2022: Novak Djokovic v Rafael Nadal put on night session despite Spaniard's reluctance He did slip up though midway through the third when two double faults and two unforced errors handed Rune a key break and the teenager went 2-1 up in sets when Tsitsipas did well to return a Rune smash but then fired a topspin forehand into the net. The Dane succeeded in getting Tsitsipas out of his comfort zone on the baseline, sending his tall opponent to the net with drop points and stretching him wide off the court with deep cross-court balls. Rune had three break points at the start of the fourth which the Greek saved but the teen made amends on his opponent`s next two service game to open up a 5-2 lead with a scorching backhand down the line. He did show some nerves in the end as Tsitsipas fought back to 5-4 and even had break points but Rune made sure of his big win on the first match point just as the clock ticked past the three hour mark.

French Open: Teenager Holger Rune shows last year's finalist Stefanos Tsitsipas the exit door

Tuesday`s highly-anticipated French Open quarter-final between world number one Novak Djokovic and 13-time champion Rafa Nadal has been scheduled to be played during the controversial night session despite the Spaniard expressing reservations against it. The night session, for which Amazon Prime has exclusive broadcasting rights in France, starts at 9 p.m. local time and was introduced for the first time at the 2021 edition of the claycourt major.

"I don`t like night sessions on clay. I am very clear with that," Nadal, who enjoys a near mythical status at Roland Garros, where he has a statue erected in his honour, told reporters last week. "I don`t like to play on clay during the night because humidity is higher, the ball is slower and there can be very heavy conditions especially when it`s cold. "I think that makes a big difference on the way you play tennis on clay during the night and during the day."

Teen sensation Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev have both said they would not want their quarter-final, also on Tuesday, to be scheduled during the night session. The match between the Spaniard and the German third seed was put as the third one on Court Philippe Chatrier.

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The Djokovic-Nadal rivalry is such a hot bill that usual rules tend not to apply when the two heavyweights face each other at the French Open. Last year, the COVID-19 curfew was pushed back to allow fans to stay longer at Roland Garros when Djokovic knocked Nadal out in the semi-finals and this year, the match will be broadcast for free on Prime Video, organisers said.

Asked about his choice during a TV interview Djokovic said with a smile: "I can only say that Rafa and I would make different applications." "As top players, we do have requests, but those requests are not always accepted," he told reporters. "The tournament director, along with TV, broadcasters, I think in the end of the day that`s who decides... TV, whether they want your match, day or night.

"You just have to adjust to that. Obviously, depending on who you play, sometimes it`s favourable to play night; sometimes day. There is no standard or no formula that works always."

Tuesday`s highly-anticipated French Open quarter-final between world number one Novak Djokovic and 13-time champion Rafa Nadal has been scheduled to be played during the controversial night session despite the Spaniard expressing reservations against it.

Tuesday`s highly-anticipated French Open quarter-final between world number one Novak Djokovic and 13-time champion Rafa Nadal has been scheduled to be played during the controversial night session despite the Spaniard expressing reservations against it. The night session, for which Amazon Prime has exclusive broadcasting rights in France, starts at 9 p.m. local time and was introduced for the first time at the 2021 edition of the claycourt major. "I don`t like night sessions on clay. I am very clear with that," Nadal, who enjoys a near mythical status at Roland Garros, where he has a statue erected in his honour, told reporters last week. "I don`t like to play on clay during the night because humidity is higher, the ball is slower and there can be very heavy conditions especially when it`s cold. "I think that makes a big difference on the way you play tennis on clay during the night and during the day." Teen sensation Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev have both said they would not want their quarter-final, also on Tuesday, to be scheduled during the night session. The match between the Spaniard and the German third seed was put as the third one on Court Philippe Chatrier. ALSO READ | French Open 2022: Rafael Nadal beats Felix Auger-Aliassime in thriller to set up Novak Djokovic date The Djokovic-Nadal rivalry is such a hot bill that usual rules tend not to apply when the two heavyweights face each other at the French Open. Last year, the COVID-19 curfew was pushed back to allow fans to stay longer at Roland Garros when Djokovic knocked Nadal out in the semi-finals and this year, the match will be broadcast for free on Prime Video, organisers said. Asked about his choice during a TV interview Djokovic said with a smile: "I can only say that Rafa and I would make different applications." "As top players, we do have requests, but those requests are not always accepted," he told reporters. "The tournament director, along with TV, broadcasters, I think in the end of the day that`s who decides... TV, whether they want your match, day or night. "You just have to adjust to that. Obviously, depending on who you play, sometimes it`s favourable to play night; sometimes day. There is no standard or no formula that works always."

French Open 2022: Novak Djokovic v Rafael Nadal put on night session despite Spaniard's reluctance

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

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

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

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

Novak Djokovic`s title defence campaign continued with a smooth straight-sets victory against Argentine No.15 seed Diego Schwartzman on Sunday as the world No.1 reached a 13th consecutive French Open quarter-final. Djokovic improved to 16-0 in the fourth rounds here in Paris and awaits Rafael Nadal or Felix Auger-Aliassime in the last-eight stage. The Serbian world No. 1 defeated Schwartzman by 6-1, 6-3, 6-3 to reach the Roland-Garros quarter-final.

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American teen Coco Gauff punched her ticket to the Roland-Garros quarter-finals for a second straight year with an impressive 6-4, 6-0 dismissal of Belgium`s Elise Mertens. The 18-year-old Floridian gave the Miami Heat a shout-out when signing the camera lens after her victory, urging them to get the W over the Boston Celtics tonight in Game 7 of the NBA Eastern Conference Finals.

Novak Djokovic`s title defence campaign continued with a smooth straight-sets victory against Argentine No.15 seed Diego Schwartzman on Sunday as the world No.1 reached a 13th consecutive French Open quarter-final.

Novak Djokovic`s title defence campaign continued with a smooth straight-sets victory against Argentine No.15 seed Diego Schwartzman on Sunday as the world No.1 reached a 13th consecutive French Open quarter-final. Djokovic improved to 16-0 in the fourth rounds here in Paris and awaits Rafael Nadal or Felix Auger-Aliassime in the last-eight stage. The Serbian world No. 1 defeated Schwartzman by 6-1, 6-3, 6-3 to reach the Roland-Garros quarter-final. ALSO READ | Leylah Fernandez tames Amanada Anisimova to book first French Open quarters American teen Coco Gauff punched her ticket to the Roland-Garros quarter-finals for a second straight year with an impressive 6-4, 6-0 dismissal of Belgium`s Elise Mertens. The 18-year-old Floridian gave the Miami Heat a shout-out when signing the camera lens after her victory, urging them to get the W over the Boston Celtics tonight in Game 7 of the NBA Eastern Conference Finals.

French Open: Novak Djokovic beats Diego Schwartzman to enters QFs, Coco Gauff ousts Elise Mertens

U.S. Open finalist Leylah Fernandez won a baseline battle against American 27th seed Amanda Anisimova 6-3 4-6 6-3 to book her spot in the quarter-finals of the French Open for the first time on Sunday.

The only other time the Canadian left-hander made the second week of a Grand Slam was during her run to the final at Flushing Meadows in 2021 when she lost to fellow teenager Emma Raducanu.

"Today was a very complicated game and I`m happy I managed to get through," she said in an on-court interview, speaking in French.

"I knew she would fire a lot of winners and that I had to accept that and not get frustrated. I was so eager to get to play here. I`m happy all the hard work we`ve done, me, my father, paid off."

On an overcast and chilly morning on Court Philippe Chatrier, the 19-year-old Fernandez put pressure on Anisimova`s serve from the outset and quickly racked up a 4-0 lead, mixing deft drop shots with crushing forehands.

The 20-year-old Anisimova, known for her easy power behind her groundstrokes, managed to get two service breaks back to make it 3-5 but could not stop Fernandez from taking the opener.

Three years ago, Anisimova, seeded 27th seed this year, became the youngest American to reach the Roland Garros semi-finals since Jennifer Capriati in 1990.

After a quick bathroom break, Anisimova returned more focused, found a bit more control with her powerful groundstrokes and advanced to the net more often to break her opponent`s delivery twice to win the second set.

Anisimova had two breakpoint opportunities on Fernandez`s first service game in the deciding set but the Canadian served an ace and then hit three crushing winners to hold.

Fernandez got the crucial break in the fifth game to nose ahead in the riveting contest as the American made her frustration evident by throwing her racket away after sending a forehand long.

The Canadian broke again in the ninth, converting her second matchpoint when Anisimova`s return did not make it past the net.

Fernandez will play Italian world number 59 Martina Trevisan, who beat 47th-ranked Aliaksandra Sasnovich of Belarus 7-6(10) 7-5, for a place in the semi-finals.

U.S. Open finalist Leylah Fernandez won a baseline battle against American 27th seed Amanda Anisimova 6-3 4-6 6-3 to book her spot in the quarter-finals of the French Open for the first time on Sunday.

U.S. Open finalist Leylah Fernandez won a baseline battle against American 27th seed Amanda Anisimova 6-3 4-6 6-3 to book her spot in the quarter-finals of the French Open for the first time on Sunday. The only other time the Canadian left-hander made the second week of a Grand Slam was during her run to the final at Flushing Meadows in 2021 when she lost to fellow teenager Emma Raducanu. "Today was a very complicated game and I`m happy I managed to get through," she said in an on-court interview, speaking in French. "I knew she would fire a lot of winners and that I had to accept that and not get frustrated. I was so eager to get to play here. I`m happy all the hard work we`ve done, me, my father, paid off." On an overcast and chilly morning on Court Philippe Chatrier, the 19-year-old Fernandez put pressure on Anisimova`s serve from the outset and quickly racked up a 4-0 lead, mixing deft drop shots with crushing forehands. The 20-year-old Anisimova, known for her easy power behind her groundstrokes, managed to get two service breaks back to make it 3-5 but could not stop Fernandez from taking the opener. Three years ago, Anisimova, seeded 27th seed this year, became the youngest American to reach the Roland Garros semi-finals since Jennifer Capriati in 1990. After a quick bathroom break, Anisimova returned more focused, found a bit more control with her powerful groundstrokes and advanced to the net more often to break her opponent`s delivery twice to win the second set. Anisimova had two breakpoint opportunities on Fernandez`s first service game in the deciding set but the Canadian served an ace and then hit three crushing winners to hold. Fernandez got the crucial break in the fifth game to nose ahead in the riveting contest as the American made her frustration evident by throwing her racket away after sending a forehand long. The Canadian broke again in the ninth, converting her second matchpoint when Anisimova`s return did not make it past the net. Fernandez will play Italian world number 59 Martina Trevisan, who beat 47th-ranked Aliaksandra Sasnovich of Belarus 7-6(10) 7-5, for a place in the semi-finals.

Leylah Fernandez tames Amanada Anisimova to book first French Open quarters

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

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

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

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

Second seed Daniil Medvedev cruised past Miomir Kecmanovic of Serbia with a comfortable 6-2 6-4 6-2 victory in less than two hours on Saturday to advance to the French Open fourth round.

The U.S. Open champion, who reached the quarterfinals at Roland Garros last year after four consecutive first-round exits, played near flawless service games throughout to give his opponent, ranked 31st in the world, no real chance.

"It was magnificent today. I did not have my serve broken," Medvedev, runner-up at the Australian Open this season, said in an on-court interview. "On this surface it is quite unusual. Hopefully there are more such matches for me next week.

"Like in my French, I try to do better in my tennis all the time. The better I learn French the better my tennis will become."

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Medvedev found little resistance on his least favourite surface from the Serb 28th seed and broke him twice in the opening set before another early break made sure of a 2-0 set lead for the Russian.

He had arrived at the French Open with only one match on clay under his belt after undergoing a procedure to treat a hernia in April but it did not show against Kecmanovic, who tried to battle back only to be broken again at 2-2 following a lengthy rally and a slice backhand that went long.

Medvedev finished the game on his first match point, firing a forehand cross-court past Kecmanovic. He next plays the winner of the match between Frenchman Gilles Simon and Croatia`s Marin Cilic.

Second seed Daniil Medvedev cruised past Miomir Kecmanovic of Serbia with a comfortable 6-2 6-4 6-2 victory in less than two hours on Saturday to advance to the French Open fourth round.

Second seed Daniil Medvedev cruised past Miomir Kecmanovic of Serbia with a comfortable 6-2 6-4 6-2 victory in less than two hours on Saturday to advance to the French Open fourth round. The U.S. Open champion, who reached the quarterfinals at Roland Garros last year after four consecutive first-round exits, played near flawless service games throughout to give his opponent, ranked 31st in the world, no real chance. "It was magnificent today. I did not have my serve broken," Medvedev, runner-up at the Australian Open this season, said in an on-court interview. "On this surface it is quite unusual. Hopefully there are more such matches for me next week. "Like in my French, I try to do better in my tennis all the time. The better I learn French the better my tennis will become." Also read | Can Liverpool win UCL 2021-22? A look at Jurgen Klopp's record in cup finals Medvedev found little resistance on his least favourite surface from the Serb 28th seed and broke him twice in the opening set before another early break made sure of a 2-0 set lead for the Russian. He had arrived at the French Open with only one match on clay under his belt after undergoing a procedure to treat a hernia in April but it did not show against Kecmanovic, who tried to battle back only to be broken again at 2-2 following a lengthy rally and a slice backhand that went long. Medvedev finished the game on his first match point, firing a forehand cross-court past Kecmanovic. He next plays the winner of the match between Frenchman Gilles Simon and Croatia`s Marin Cilic.

French Open: Second seed Medvedev trounces Kecmanovic in straight sets for fourth round spot

Carlos Alcaraz`s meteoric rise continued on Friday when the Spanish prodigy produced yet another awe-inspiring performance to outplay American Sebastian Korda 6-4 6-4 6-2 and reach the last 16 of the French Open for the first time. Facing the only man to beat him on clay this year, the sixth-seeded teenager, who saved a match point in the second round, showed his full range on a packed court Philippe Chatrier - mixing powerful forehands with gravity-defying drop shots.

The 27th-seeded Korda threw everything at his opponent, only for the ball to come back quicker and with more power and the American faded in the third after a high-octane fight in the first two sets.

Alcaraz, who now has an 18-1 win-loss record on the red dirt this season after winning titles in Barcelona and Madrid, will next face 21st-seeded Russian Karen Khachanov before a potential quarter-final clash against third seed Alexander Zverev.

"It`s amazing to play in front of such a great crowd in this atmosphere on a night session," the 19-year-old Alcaraz, who stunned the crowd with some serve and volleying, said.

"I`m having fun, I love playing tennis on such great courts, I love playing in France. Serve and volley is a weapon that I have so I use it."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-unstoppable-world-no-1-iga-swiatek-enters-r3-aryna-sabalenka-defeats-madison-brengle-482725">French Open - Unstoppable world No. 1 Iga Swiatek enters R3; Aryna Sabalenka defeats Madison Brengle</a>

Should the stars align for Alcaraz, he could eventually take on either world number one and defending champion Novak Djokovic or 13-time Roland Garros winner Rafael Nadal in the last four.

"If I am winning, I just play against one of them. I think I`m ready. It`s different to play against them," he said.

"I mean in the Masters 1000 or another tournament it`s best-of-three and in Grand Slam it`s best-of-five, but I would say I`m ready."

Alcaraz got off to a brilliant start and had a couple of double break points at 3-1, only for Korda to stave them off with a service winner and an ace.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-spaniard-rafael-nadal-stays-on-course-for-possible-face-off-with-novak-djokovic-in-quarters-482723">French Open: Spaniard Rafael Nadal stays on course for possible face-off with Novak Djokovic in quarters</a>

But the Spaniard was untroubled on his service games and he wrapped up the opening set having lost only six points on serve. Korda found his range early in the second set and set up two break points but Alcaraz held firm and showed his ability to find the best shot at the best moment - including a sublime lob while on the back foot to go 30-0 up in the fifth game.

He won that game with a superb forehand winner down the line. Korda saved set points at 5-3 but yielded under pressure in the 10th game, returning long to hand Alcaraz a two-set lead.

It quickly went downhill from there for Korda, who dropped serve again with a volley into the net in the seventh game and capitulated on the first match point when Alcaraz unleashed a backhand winner down the line.

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

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

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

Unstoppable World No.1 Iga Swiatek pulled up her 30th consecutive win at the French Open on Thursday as she defeated Alison Riske of America in the second round. The World No.1 Polish completely dominated Riske by 6-0, 6-2 in a two sets victory to reach the third round.Swiatek, the 2020 champion, is on the best streak since Serena Williams`s 34-match winning run in 2013. It took 61 minutes for Swiatek to end Riske`s run in the tournament.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-spaniard-rafael-nadal-stays-on-course-for-possible-face-off-with-novak-djokovic-in-quarters-482723">French Open: Spaniard Rafael Nadal stays on course for possible face-off with Novak Djokovic in quarters</a>

In the third round, Swiatek will face Danka Kovinic who upset Anna Karolina Schmiedlova 6-3, 7-5 in the second round. Later, No.7 seed Aryna Sabalenka put on a stunning show as she registered a 6-1, 6-3 win over American Madison Brengle. It only took 62-minute for the No.7 seed to fend off the American challenge as she dominated her opponent in both sets.

Unstoppable World No.1 Iga Swiatek pulled up her 30th consecutive win at the French Open on Thursday as she defeated Alison Riske of America in the second round.

Unstoppable World No.1 Iga Swiatek pulled up her 30th consecutive win at the French Open on Thursday as she defeated Alison Riske of America in the second round. The World No.1 Polish completely dominated Riske by 6-0, 6-2 in a two sets victory to reach the third round.Swiatek, the 2020 champion, is on the best streak since Serena Williams`s 34-match winning run in 2013. It took 61 minutes for Swiatek to end Riske`s run in the tournament. ALSO READ | French Open: Spaniard Rafael Nadal stays on course for possible face-off with Novak Djokovic in quarters In the third round, Swiatek will face Danka Kovinic who upset Anna Karolina Schmiedlova 6-3, 7-5 in the second round. Later, No.7 seed Aryna Sabalenka put on a stunning show as she registered a 6-1, 6-3 win over American Madison Brengle. It only took 62-minute for the No.7 seed to fend off the American challenge as she dominated her opponent in both sets.

French Open: Unstoppable world No. 1 Iga Swiatek enters R3; Aryna Sabalenka defeats Madison Brengle

Rafa Nadal hammered Dutch 26th seed Botic van de Zandschulp 6-3 6-2 6-4 in the French Open third round on Friday to remain on course for a potential mouth-watering showdown against world number one Novak Djokovic in the quarter-finals. Nadal has 13 Roland Garros titles among his 21 majors -- the highest among men -- but the Spaniard was denied last year when he went down in the semi-finals to eventual champion Djokovic.

Around the same time on nearby Court Philippe Chatrier, the Serb also put on a prolific display to book his spot in the fourth round with a 6-3 6-3 6-2 win over Slovenia`s Aljaz Bedene to stay in the hunt for a record-equalling 21st major. While Djokovic will next meet Argentine Diego Schwartzman, Nadal will take on Canadian ninth seed Felix Auger-Aliassime before their potential clash in the last eight.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-stefanos-tsitsipas-survives-zdenek-kolar-scare-to-enter-third-round-in-paris-482693">French Open: Stefanos Tsitsipas survives Zdenek Kolar scare to enter third round in Paris</a>

Van de Zandschulp began the match on a strong footing, breaking Nadal`s serve in the first game, but the Spaniard`s delivery looked almost impregnable for the remainder of the contest on Court Suzanne Lenglen. 
In his first career meeting against the Dutchman, Nadal dictated terms from way behind the baseline, absorbing his opponent`s power and then bringing out his venomous forehand when required.

Van de Zandschulp, currently at a career-high ranking of 29th, staged a brief fightback in the third set when he won three games in a row from 4-0 down but Nadal, who will turn 36 next week, had the cushion to not be threatened. Nadal broke the 26-year-old`s service twice in each of the three sets, hit 25 winners while keeping a lid on his unforced errors. The left-hander closed out the contest with an overhead smash down the middle on his second match point.

"I had my chance with a break point for 5-0 then match was over but he made a great second serve," Nadal said on court. "Then I played a bad game with my serve and he started to play aggressive and you feel a bit of nerves to finish the match. "Straight sets, it was my best match of the tournament for two sets and a half."

Rafa Nadal hammered Dutch 26th seed Botic van de Zandschulp 6-3 6-2 6-4 in the French Open third round on Friday to remain on course for a potential mouth-watering showdown against world number one Novak Djokovic in the quarter-finals.

Rafa Nadal hammered Dutch 26th seed Botic van de Zandschulp 6-3 6-2 6-4 in the French Open third round on Friday to remain on course for a potential mouth-watering showdown against world number one Novak Djokovic in the quarter-finals. Nadal has 13 Roland Garros titles among his 21 majors -- the highest among men -- but the Spaniard was denied last year when he went down in the semi-finals to eventual champion Djokovic. Around the same time on nearby Court Philippe Chatrier, the Serb also put on a prolific display to book his spot in the fourth round with a 6-3 6-3 6-2 win over Slovenia`s Aljaz Bedene to stay in the hunt for a record-equalling 21st major. While Djokovic will next meet Argentine Diego Schwartzman, Nadal will take on Canadian ninth seed Felix Auger-Aliassime before their potential clash in the last eight. ALSO READ | French Open: Stefanos Tsitsipas survives Zdenek Kolar scare to enter third round in Paris Van de Zandschulp began the match on a strong footing, breaking Nadal`s serve in the first game, but the Spaniard`s delivery looked almost impregnable for the remainder of the contest on Court Suzanne Lenglen. In his first career meeting against the Dutchman, Nadal dictated terms from way behind the baseline, absorbing his opponent`s power and then bringing out his venomous forehand when required. Van de Zandschulp, currently at a career-high ranking of 29th, staged a brief fightback in the third set when he won three games in a row from 4-0 down but Nadal, who will turn 36 next week, had the cushion to not be threatened. Nadal broke the 26-year-old`s service twice in each of the three sets, hit 25 winners while keeping a lid on his unforced errors. The left-hander closed out the contest with an overhead smash down the middle on his second match point. "I had my chance with a break point for 5-0 then match was over but he made a great second serve," Nadal said on court. "Then I played a bad game with my serve and he started to play aggressive and you feel a bit of nerves to finish the match. "Straight sets, it was my best match of the tournament for two sets and a half."

French Open: Spaniard Rafael Nadal stays on course for possible face-off with Novak Djokovic in quarters

World No. 4 Stefanos Tsitsipas had to work hard for a win on Thursday, the Greek overcome Czech qualifier Zdenek Kolar in the second round of the French Open 2022. The Greek held off a hard challenge from Czech qualifier Zdenek Kolar to advance 6-3, 7-6(8), 6-7(3), 7-6(7).

Tsitsipas won the opening set in a comprehensive manner, but both the players were toe-to-toe to win the match. After losing the first two sets, pretty Kolar made a strong comeback and won the third set. Even in the fourth set, in the qualifier, Tsitsipas had to fight hard to claim the match.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-romanian-star-irina-camelia-begu-apologises-after-throwing-racquet-on-a-young-kid-watch-482630">French Open: Romanian star Irina-Camelia Begu apologises after throwing racquet on a young kid - WATCH</a>

Tsitsipas will face Mikael Ymer, who matched his best Grand Slam result with a 6-3, 3-6, 6-2, 6-3 upset over No. 29 seed Dan Evans.Earlier, Daniil Medvedev advanced to the third round at the ongoing French Open 2022 with a straight-sets win over Serbia`s Laslo Djere at Court Philippe-Chatrier. The second-seeded Russian defeated Djere 6-3, 6-4, 6-3.

World No. 4 Stefanos Tsitsipas had to work hard for a win on Thursday, the Greek overcome Czech qualifier Zdenek Kolar in the second round of the French Open 2022.

World No. 4 Stefanos Tsitsipas had to work hard for a win on Thursday, the Greek overcome Czech qualifier Zdenek Kolar in the second round of the French Open 2022. The Greek held off a hard challenge from Czech qualifier Zdenek Kolar to advance 6-3, 7-6(8), 6-7(3), 7-6(7). Tsitsipas won the opening set in a comprehensive manner, but both the players were toe-to-toe to win the match. After losing the first two sets, pretty Kolar made a strong comeback and won the third set. Even in the fourth set, in the qualifier, Tsitsipas had to fight hard to claim the match. ALSO READ | French Open: Romanian star Irina-Camelia Begu apologises after throwing racquet on a young kid - WATCH Tsitsipas will face Mikael Ymer, who matched his best Grand Slam result with a 6-3, 3-6, 6-2, 6-3 upset over No. 29 seed Dan Evans.Earlier, Daniil Medvedev advanced to the third round at the ongoing French Open 2022 with a straight-sets win over Serbia`s Laslo Djere at Court Philippe-Chatrier. The second-seeded Russian defeated Djere 6-3, 6-4, 6-3.

French Open: Stefanos Tsitsipas survives Zdenek Kolar scare to enter third round in Paris

French Open 2022 edition has kept the tennis fans engaged across the globe with plenty happening on and off the court at regular intervals. On Thursday (May 26), Romania's&nbsp;Irina-Camelia Begu made heads turn for all the wrong reasons during her second-round match, where she locked horns with Russia's Ekaterina Alexandrova. In frustration, Irina had thrown her racquet into the crowd, which hit a child's face. Thus, she issued an apology and play was delayed for five minutes due to the incident.

"It's an embarrassing moment for me, so I don't want to talk too much about it. I just want to apologise," reported news agency AFP quoting Begu as saying. The world no. 63 further added that she felt bad for what she did. "My whole career I didn't do something like this, and I feel really bad and sorry. So I'm just going to say again, sorry for the incident and it was just an embarrassing moment for me,"&nbsp;Begu added.

Here's the video of the unfortunate incident:

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Irina-Camelia Begu just bounced her racket into the crowd, supervisor has been called. <a href="https://t.co/EiIBNDAH2I">pic.twitter.com/EiIBNDAH2I</a>
— Damian Kust (@damiankust) <a href="https://twitter.com/damiankust/status/1529781776532525057?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-champion-simona-halep-knocked-out-by-chinese-teen-sensation-zheng-qinwen-482585">Former champion Simona Halep knocked out by Chinese teen sensation Zheng Qinwen</a>

The 31-year-old Romanian player had thrown her&nbsp;racquet at her chair. However, it bounced and hit the young kid who sat&nbsp;close to umpire Anis Ressaissi's chair. As the boy started crying, the tournament referee had to join in to cool things down between his parents and Begu.&nbsp;The world no. 63 had taken the child in her arms after the entire episode.

Post the incident, Begu was only given a warning and&nbsp;not defaulted with the tournament. "It was a difficult moment. You hit the clay with the racquet, but you never expect to fly that much," reported the news agency quoting the Romanian player as saying.

Despite all the unwanted chaos, Begu beat her opposition to win&nbsp;the match 6-7 (3/7), 6-3, 6-4.

French Open 2022 edition has kept the tennis fans engaged across the globe with plenty happening on and off the court at regular intervals. On Thursday (May 26), Romania's Irina-Camelia Begu made heads turn for all the wrong reasons during her second-round match, where she locked horns with Russia's Ekaterina Alexandrova.

French Open 2022 edition has kept the tennis fans engaged across the globe with plenty happening on and off the court at regular intervals. On Thursday (May 26), Romania's Irina-Camelia Begu made heads turn for all the wrong reasons during her second-round match, where she locked horns with Russia's Ekaterina Alexandrova. In frustration, Irina had thrown her racquet into the crowd, which hit a child's face. Thus, she issued an apology and play was delayed for five minutes due to the incident. "It's an embarrassing moment for me, so I don't want to talk too much about it. I just want to apologise," reported news agency AFP quoting Begu as saying. The world no. 63 further added that she felt bad for what she did. "My whole career I didn't do something like this, and I feel really bad and sorry. So I'm just going to say again, sorry for the incident and it was just an embarrassing moment for me," Begu added. Here's the video of the unfortunate incident: Irina-Camelia Begu just bounced her racket into the crowd, supervisor has been called. pic.twitter.com/EiIBNDAH2I — Damian Kust (@damiankust) May 26, 2022 × ALSO READ | Former champion Simona Halep knocked out by Chinese teen sensation Zheng Qinwen The 31-year-old Romanian player had thrown her racquet at her chair. However, it bounced and hit the young kid who sat close to umpire Anis Ressaissi's chair. As the boy started crying, the tournament referee had to join in to cool things down between his parents and Begu. The world no. 63 had taken the child in her arms after the entire episode. Post the incident, Begu was only given a warning and not defaulted with the tournament. "It was a difficult moment. You hit the clay with the racquet, but you never expect to fly that much," reported the news agency quoting the Romanian player as saying. Despite all the unwanted chaos, Begu beat her opposition to win the match 6-7 (3/7), 6-3, 6-4.

French Open: Romanian star Irina-Camelia Begu apologises after throwing racquet on a young kid - WATCH

Former world number one Simona Halep crashed out of the French Open on Thursday as she failed to deal with the aggressive game of Chinese teenager Zheng Qinwen and suffered a 2-6 6-2 6-1 second-round loss.

Halep, who lifted the trophy at Roland Garros in 2018 before winning Wimbledon the following year, came into the match on Court Simonne Mathieu having won her only prior meeting against the 19-year-old Zheng in straight sets in Melbourne in January. The 30-year-old Romanian got off to a flying start by dominating play from the baseline, breezing through the opening set and going up a break before Zheng, ranked 74th in the world, took control.

Winners started flowing from the Chinese player`s racket as the unforced error count soared for Halep and Zheng did not look back. Zheng, who hit 28 winners to her opponent`s nine, won eight games in a row to go up 3-0 in the deciding set and Halep won just one more game.

"I have been working really hard, and it was really nice, that was my best performance. I am happy today," Zheng said in an interview on court. Halep also seemed to struggle with her breathing during the third set and had her pulse and blood pressure checked on court. She said she had suffered a panic attack. 
"I didn`t know how to handle it, because I don`t have it often," a smiling Halep told reporters.

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"I don`t really know why it happened, because I was leading the match. I was playing well. I couldn`t focus. After the match, (it) was pretty tough. But now I`m good. I`m recovered, and I will learn from this episode." 
Zheng, playing only her second major after making her Grand Slam debut at the Australian Open, will next meet the winner of the match between local hope Alize Cornet and former champion Jelena Ostapenko of Latvia.

On another day of upsets for the seeded players in the women`s draw, American Shelby Rogers beat compatriot and Australian Open finalist Danielle Collins, the ninth seed, 6-4 6-3. Local wildcard Leolia Jeanjean earlier swept away former world number one and eighth seed Karolina Pliskova in straight sets.

Halep suffers panic attack during defeat

The former world number one and 2018 French Open champion called for the doctor during the third set of her loss to Chinese teenager Zheng Qinwen on Court Simonne Mathieu. "It was just a panic attack. It happened," she told reporters with a smile afterwards. "I didn`t know how to handle it, because I don`t have it often. I don`t really know why it happened, because I was leading the match, I was playing well."

"I lost it. I couldn`t focus. After the match, was pretty tough. But now I`m good. I`m recovered, and I will learn from this episode. Nothing like dangerous, in my opinion." The mental health of top women athletes has been brought into focus over the last year after Naomi Osaka and American gymnast Simone Biles spoke out about their struggles.

Halep, who lost three Grand Slam finals before winning majors at Roland Garros and Wimbledon, said last year she sometimes struggled to handle the pressure of being an elite athlete. The 30-year-old Romanian said she had been given the all clear by doctors after her panic attack and was determined to learn from the experience.

"It`s just a tennis match, so I have to (be) a little bit more relaxed. I probably put pressure on myself too much, because I really wanted to do well," she added. "I felt good. I practiced. I worked hard. But just didn`t happen, and probably I got a little bit of panic during that thinking, overthinking. "It happened. I have to accept it. It`s something normal that everybody has. I will be better next time, for sure. I don`t have these things so it was new for me."

Former world number one Simona Halep crashed out of the French Open on Thursday as she failed to deal with the aggressive game of Chinese teenager Zheng Qinwen and suffered a 2-6 6-2 6-1 second-round loss.

Former world number one Simona Halep crashed out of the French Open on Thursday as she failed to deal with the aggressive game of Chinese teenager Zheng Qinwen and suffered a 2-6 6-2 6-1 second-round loss. Halep, who lifted the trophy at Roland Garros in 2018 before winning Wimbledon the following year, came into the match on Court Simonne Mathieu having won her only prior meeting against the 19-year-old Zheng in straight sets in Melbourne in January. The 30-year-old Romanian got off to a flying start by dominating play from the baseline, breezing through the opening set and going up a break before Zheng, ranked 74th in the world, took control. Winners started flowing from the Chinese player`s racket as the unforced error count soared for Halep and Zheng did not look back. Zheng, who hit 28 winners to her opponent`s nine, won eight games in a row to go up 3-0 in the deciding set and Halep won just one more game. "I have been working really hard, and it was really nice, that was my best performance. I am happy today," Zheng said in an interview on court. Halep also seemed to struggle with her breathing during the third set and had her pulse and blood pressure checked on court. She said she had suffered a panic attack. "I didn`t know how to handle it, because I don`t have it often," a smiling Halep told reporters. ALSO READ | Wimbledon set to remove 'Miss' and 'Mrs' from honours boards: Report "I don`t really know why it happened, because I was leading the match. I was playing well. I couldn`t focus. After the match, (it) was pretty tough. But now I`m good. I`m recovered, and I will learn from this episode." Zheng, playing only her second major after making her Grand Slam debut at the Australian Open, will next meet the winner of the match between local hope Alize Cornet and former champion Jelena Ostapenko of Latvia. On another day of upsets for the seeded players in the women`s draw, American Shelby Rogers beat compatriot and Australian Open finalist Danielle Collins, the ninth seed, 6-4 6-3. Local wildcard Leolia Jeanjean earlier swept away former world number one and eighth seed Karolina Pliskova in straight sets. Halep suffers panic attack during defeat The former world number one and 2018 French Open champion called for the doctor during the third set of her loss to Chinese teenager Zheng Qinwen on Court Simonne Mathieu. "It was just a panic attack. It happened," she told reporters with a smile afterwards. "I didn`t know how to handle it, because I don`t have it often. I don`t really know why it happened, because I was leading the match, I was playing well." "I lost it. I couldn`t focus. After the match, was pretty tough. But now I`m good. I`m recovered, and I will learn from this episode. Nothing like dangerous, in my opinion." The mental health of top women athletes has been brought into focus over the last year after Naomi Osaka and American gymnast Simone Biles spoke out about their struggles. Halep, who lost three Grand Slam finals before winning majors at Roland Garros and Wimbledon, said last year she sometimes struggled to handle the pressure of being an elite athlete. The 30-year-old Romanian said she had been given the all clear by doctors after her panic attack and was determined to learn from the experience. "It`s just a tennis match, so I have to (be) a little bit more relaxed. I probably put pressure on myself too much, because I really wanted to do well," she added. "I felt good. I practiced. I worked hard. But just didn`t happen, and probably I got a little bit of panic during that thinking, overthinking. "It happened. I have to accept it. It`s something normal that everybody has. I will be better next time, for sure. I don`t have these things so it was new for me."

Former champion Simona Halep knocked out by Chinese teen sensation Zheng Qinwen

Daniil Medvedev still has issues with claycourt tennis, but the world number two cantered into the French Open third round with a 6-3 6-4 6-3 win against Serbian Laslo Djere on Thursday. The Russian, who reached the quarter-finals at Roland Garros last year after four consecutive first-round exits, struggled at times but his elasticity eventually made up for his lack of natural ability to move around on the slow surface.

Medvedev found himself down a break in the first set but his brilliant defence helped him claw his way back both times on court Philippe Chatrier. He will next meet 28th seed Miomir Kecmanovic of Serbia. 
Medvedev, who won the U.S. Open last year and was runner-up at the Australian Open this season, arrived at the French Open with only one match on clay under his belt after undergoing a procedure to treat a hernia in April.

A string of early unforced errors gave Djere a break in the first game, but Medvedev moved up a gear to win five games in a row and take control of the contest as his opponent appeared to be struggling physically. The Russian broke decisively for 5-4 in the second set and there was no coming back for world number 56 Djere, who bowed out on the first match point when he netted a routine backhand.

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Medvedev`s win was enjoyed by the Roland Garros crowd, who have made him one of their favourites for his ability to speak almost fluent French - a talent he likes to play with. "I`m really disappointed, I thought you would speak French with the French crowd," he told courtside interviewer and three-time Roland Garros champion Mats Wilander.

"You have to improve in French... I`m joking," he added with a smile. Commenting on the match, Medvedev said he was fortunate to escape with a straight sets win. "Today he (Djere) played maybe better claycourt tennis but I managed to play better on the important points," the 26-year-old said.

"It`s very difficult. I tried to make him play a little bit more. Maybe he had cramps or an injury and he took the ball early and so he either made a mistake or a winner. "One break is nothing on clay and if he had broken back the pain would maybe have gone away," the Russian added.

Daniil Medvedev still has issues with claycourt tennis, but the world number two cantered into the French Open third round with a 6-3 6-4 6-3 win against Serbian Laslo Djere on Thursday.

Daniil Medvedev still has issues with claycourt tennis, but the world number two cantered into the French Open third round with a 6-3 6-4 6-3 win against Serbian Laslo Djere on Thursday. The Russian, who reached the quarter-finals at Roland Garros last year after four consecutive first-round exits, struggled at times but his elasticity eventually made up for his lack of natural ability to move around on the slow surface. Medvedev found himself down a break in the first set but his brilliant defence helped him claw his way back both times on court Philippe Chatrier. He will next meet 28th seed Miomir Kecmanovic of Serbia. Medvedev, who won the U.S. Open last year and was runner-up at the Australian Open this season, arrived at the French Open with only one match on clay under his belt after undergoing a procedure to treat a hernia in April. A string of early unforced errors gave Djere a break in the first game, but Medvedev moved up a gear to win five games in a row and take control of the contest as his opponent appeared to be struggling physically. The Russian broke decisively for 5-4 in the second set and there was no coming back for world number 56 Djere, who bowed out on the first match point when he netted a routine backhand. ALSO READ | France's Leolia Jeanjean gains limelight with win over ex-World No. 1 Karolina Pliskova win in Paris Medvedev`s win was enjoyed by the Roland Garros crowd, who have made him one of their favourites for his ability to speak almost fluent French - a talent he likes to play with. "I`m really disappointed, I thought you would speak French with the French crowd," he told courtside interviewer and three-time Roland Garros champion Mats Wilander. "You have to improve in French... I`m joking," he added with a smile. Commenting on the match, Medvedev said he was fortunate to escape with a straight sets win. "Today he (Djere) played maybe better claycourt tennis but I managed to play better on the important points," the 26-year-old said. "It`s very difficult. I tried to make him play a little bit more. Maybe he had cramps or an injury and he took the ball early and so he either made a mistake or a winner. "One break is nothing on clay and if he had broken back the pain would maybe have gone away," the Russian added.

Daniil Medvedev through to French Open third round with straight-set win vs Serbian Laslo Djere

Local wildcard Leolia Jeanjean caused a major upset at the French Open by thrashing ex-world number one Karolina Pliskova 6-2 6-2 in the second round on Thursday, bursting into the limelight as she resurrected her career in spectacular fashion. The 26-year-old Jeanjean, playing in her maiden Grand Slam, is a former big hope of French tennis who ended up living on minimum wage after a knee injury suffered when she was 15 kept her off the courts for two years.

Dropped by Nike, who had given her a 10-year sponsorship deal, and by the French federation, who had assigned her a full-time coach when she was 12, Jeanjean went to study in the United States at the Lynn University in Florida. She came back to tennis with a degree in finance, only for her return to be slowed down by the COVID-19 pandemic.

"I lived on minimum wage and I didn`t live from day-to-day, but week after week. I put all the money I had into a week`s worth of tournaments and if they went well I got another week, but if they went badly I didn`t play for two months because it was financially impossible," she said. On Thursday, Jeanjean outfoxed eighth seed Pliskova, a semi-finalist here in 2017, to reach the third round and collect at least 125,800 euros ($134,656.32) in prize money.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/carlos-alcaraz-survives-match-point-to-beat-fellow-spaniard-albert-ramos-vinolas-in-five-set-thriller-482309">Carlos Alcaraz survives match point to beat fellow Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas in five-set thriller</a>

"I could not try to overpower her, it was impossible, so I had to try to derail her and it worked perfectly," she said on court Simonne Mathieu. "It (the prize money) will make life easier. I can certainly pay a coach, pay my tickets when I go to tournaments. I can actually travel around further away. I can actually have staff. So this will change everything, certainly," she said.

Jeanjean, whose early rise drew comparisons with Martina Hingis, will next face Russian Ekaterina Alexandrova, the 30th seed, or Romania`s Irina-Camelia Begu and will break into the top 150 after starting the tournament as world number 227. "I don`t have an explanation. I don`t even realise what`s happening. I know I`m 26. It`s my first Grand Slam. I thought I would have lost in the first round in two sets, and I found myself beating a top-10 player," she said.

"So honestly, I have nothing else to say. I don`t really know how it`s possible, what`s happening. I just try to give my best to play my tennis, and it`s working so far."

Local wildcard Leolia Jeanjean caused a major upset at the French Open by thrashing ex-world number one Karolina Pliskova 6-2 6-2 in the second round on Thursday, bursting into the limelight as she resurrected her career in spectacular fashion.

Local wildcard Leolia Jeanjean caused a major upset at the French Open by thrashing ex-world number one Karolina Pliskova 6-2 6-2 in the second round on Thursday, bursting into the limelight as she resurrected her career in spectacular fashion. The 26-year-old Jeanjean, playing in her maiden Grand Slam, is a former big hope of French tennis who ended up living on minimum wage after a knee injury suffered when she was 15 kept her off the courts for two years. Dropped by Nike, who had given her a 10-year sponsorship deal, and by the French federation, who had assigned her a full-time coach when she was 12, Jeanjean went to study in the United States at the Lynn University in Florida. She came back to tennis with a degree in finance, only for her return to be slowed down by the COVID-19 pandemic. "I lived on minimum wage and I didn`t live from day-to-day, but week after week. I put all the money I had into a week`s worth of tournaments and if they went well I got another week, but if they went badly I didn`t play for two months because it was financially impossible," she said. On Thursday, Jeanjean outfoxed eighth seed Pliskova, a semi-finalist here in 2017, to reach the third round and collect at least 125,800 euros ($134,656.32) in prize money. ALSO READ | Carlos Alcaraz survives match point to beat fellow Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas in five-set thriller "I could not try to overpower her, it was impossible, so I had to try to derail her and it worked perfectly," she said on court Simonne Mathieu. "It (the prize money) will make life easier. I can certainly pay a coach, pay my tickets when I go to tournaments. I can actually travel around further away. I can actually have staff. So this will change everything, certainly," she said. Jeanjean, whose early rise drew comparisons with Martina Hingis, will next face Russian Ekaterina Alexandrova, the 30th seed, or Romania`s Irina-Camelia Begu and will break into the top 150 after starting the tournament as world number 227. "I don`t have an explanation. I don`t even realise what`s happening. I know I`m 26. It`s my first Grand Slam. I thought I would have lost in the first round in two sets, and I found myself beating a top-10 player," she said. "So honestly, I have nothing else to say. I don`t really know how it`s possible, what`s happening. I just try to give my best to play my tennis, and it`s working so far."

France's Leolia Jeanjean gains limelight with win over ex-World No. 1 Karolina Pliskova win in Paris

In the ongoing French Open,&nbsp;Rafael Nadal ensured his 300th Grand Slam match victory by putting up a great show on Wednesday. The win, which was achieved in straight sets 6-3, 6-1 and 6-4, seems to have dashed the hopes of Corentin Moutet. Nadal sailed into the third round of French Open. In the first two rounds, he looked at his usual best. In overall 21 majors, Nadal has won 13 Roland Garros titles. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The preparations of Nadal were hampered due to a rib injury and a foot problem. He did not seem keen to talk about his physical condition. "I can’t try to go very deep in a tournament if I'm worried about my physical issues every single day. So, if something happens, I am gonna accept it. But for the moment, I am focused on tennis," the Spaniard told reporters. &nbsp;

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Nadal will now face Dutch 26th seed Botic van de Zandschulp in a potential quarter-final. &nbsp;

"Preparation hasn't been perfect so I didn't expect a perfect start to the tournament. But it has been going quite well. I am positive about the things that I did out there tonight. Of course, there is room to improve and I need to improve if I want to keep having chances to go deeper," Nadal said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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In the ongoing French Open, Rafael Nadal ensured his 300th Grand Slam match victory by putting up a great show on Wednesday. The win, which was achieved in straight sets 6-3, 6-1 and 6-4, seems to have dashed the hopes of Corentin Moutet.

In the ongoing French Open, Rafael Nadal ensured his 300th Grand Slam match victory by putting up a great show on Wednesday. The win, which was achieved in straight sets 6-3, 6-1 and 6-4, seems to have dashed the hopes of Corentin Moutet. Nadal sailed into the third round of French Open. In the first two rounds, he looked at his usual best. In overall 21 majors, Nadal has won 13 Roland Garros titles. The preparations of Nadal were hampered due to a rib injury and a foot problem. He did not seem keen to talk about his physical condition. "I can’t try to go very deep in a tournament if I'm worried about my physical issues every single day. So, if something happens, I am gonna accept it. But for the moment, I am focused on tennis," the Spaniard told reporters. WATCH WION LIVE HERE Nadal will now face Dutch 26th seed Botic van de Zandschulp in a potential quarter-final. "Preparation hasn't been perfect so I didn't expect a perfect start to the tournament. But it has been going quite well. I am positive about the things that I did out there tonight. Of course, there is room to improve and I need to improve if I want to keep having chances to go deeper," Nadal said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Rafael Nadal registers 300th Grand Slam match win, enters French Open’s third round

Sixth seed Carlos Alcaraz clawed back from the brink of a shock second-round defeat at the French Open on Wednesday to outlast fellow Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas in a five-set marathon that fully tested his title credentials. The 19-year-old, who has taken the tennis world by storm this year, survived a match point in the fourth set before working his way back to win 6-1 6-7(7) 5-7 7-6(2) 6-4 in a match lasting over four hours and a half hours.

Alcaraz is now unbeaten for 12 straight matches after bagging back-to-back titles in Barcelona and Madrid going into Roland Garros. "I feel tired but I mean it was a great battle against a great player," he said. "I knew it would be a top match. We fought until the last point. I am so happy with the performance today. 
"I had my chances if I saved that match point. The tiebreak I was aggressive. In the fifth set I was fresh. I was like the beginning of the match. That match point changed everything."

Alcaraz, who has enjoyed a meteoric rise in the past 12 months, had looked unflustered by the blustery conditions on the Simonne Mathieu Court with a near flawless performance in the first set. The 34-year-old Ramos-Vinolas, a clay court specialist and quarter-finalist in Paris six years ago, had no response to Alcaraz`s explosive power and accuracy.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-registers-300th-grand-slam-match-win-enters-french-opens-third-round-482226">Rafael Nadal registers 300th Grand Slam match win, enters French Open’s third round</a>

The teenager`s serve proved equally devastating as he gave away just three points in his service games in the first set. His veteran opponent, however, was far from done, putting up a stronger fight as unforced errors started creeping into Alcaraz`s game, including a forehand that sailed wide on Ramos-Vinolas`s set point.

With his opponent now clearly unsettled, having lost his earlier momentum and composure, Ramos-Vinolas moved Alcaraz around and broke him to go 2-1 up in the third set. Alcaraz was paying the price for his unforced errors and his 44th, a simple volley into the net, handed Ramos-Vinolas a break to go 6-5 up and he held serve to lead 2-1.

Facing the prospect of a shock exit, Alcaraz survived a match point at 5-4 before forcing a fifth set. 
He again had to work his way back from 0-3 to level before finishing Ramos-Vinolas off with an ace on his first match point.

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

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

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

The 18-year career of Jo-Wilfried Tsonga came to end at Roland Garros after losing to Casper Ruud of Norway in the first round of the French Open here on Tuesday. With a vocal Court Philippe Chatrier crowd cheering him on that included close friend Gael Monfils, Tsonga fought valiantly against eighth seed Casper Ruud before the Norwegian prevailed 6-7(6), 7-6(4), 6-2, 7-6(0). 
 
The 37-year-old Tsonga soaked in a standing ovation for his storied career that includes 18 ATP Tour titles, a runner-up showing at the 2008 Australian Open and a career-high Pepperstone ATP Ranking of No. 5. 
 
"It`s tough for me and all the players that you`re stopping. You`ve been an inspiration to me and so many of the other players, so thank you for the memories," said Ruud, holding back tears in his on-court interview. "I have so many good memories watching Jo on TV. He`s such a great guy and nice person on and off the court. He`s a good example of what a player should be." 
 
Trailing 0-6 in the fourth-set tie-break, an emotional Tsonga fought back tears as they switched sides, then broke down as he stepped to the line to serve. 
 
Both men embraced at the net after a final Ruud forehand winner ended play after three hours and 49 minutes. The Court Philippe Chatrier crowd rose in unison as an emotional Tsonga waved to them before kneeling down on the court. 
 
With his family and children watching on court along with fellow French players Richard Gasquet, Benoit Paire and Monfils, he then took in a moving on-court ceremony that celebrated his career achievements. Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer and Andy Murray all sent video messages for the ceremony that praised Tsonga as a player and person.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-world-no-4-stefanos-tsitsipas-overcomes-italys-lorenzo-musetti-challenge-to-advance-481990">French Open: World No. 4 Stefanos Tsitsipas overcomes Italy's Lorenzo Musetti challenge to advance</a>

"He`s one of the most charismatic players to play the game," said Djokovic. "He brought a lot of attention to the sport because of his charismatic game style. It`s a tremendous loss to men`s tennis, [but] he has made his mark on our sport." 
 
Injuries limited Tsonga to just 16 tour-level events since the beginning of 2020, but he was able to draw on ample experience in big matches throughout his career. He stayed with the Norwegian throughout the first set, trading service holds before sprinting to a 6/4 lead in the tie-break. Although Tsonga let slip his first two set points, he brought the crowd to its feet by converting on a third opportunity at 7/6. 
 
The second set also went to a tie-break and it appeared that Tsonga might build a two-set lead after gaining a 2/0 mini-break advantage with a drop shot winner. But as Ruud steadied his baseline game, Tsonga lost control of his and began leaking errors. Ruud took seven of the next nine points and struck a strong serve at 6/4 to level the match. Ruud broke Tsonga at 2-1 in the third set with a crosscourt forehand winner and secured an additional break at 5-2 to take a commanding advantage. 
 
Tsonga was forced to serve to keep his career alive at 4-5 in the fourth set, but bravely managed to hold on the back of aggressive baseline play. Buoyed by a crowd firmly on his side, he played a vintage game at 5-5 and broke Ruud to love. 
 
But while Ruud still looked fresh as the match surpassed three-and-a-half hours, Tsonga`s body began to break down. The pace on the Frenchman`s shots slowed considerably as he dropped serve at 6-5. Tsonga then received a medical timeout for treatment on his right shoulder before the start of the tie-break. 
 
Although there were moments of Tsonga flair in the final points that included an improvised left-handed forehand volley, Ruud swept through the tie-break without dropping a point. The eighth seed will face Emil Ruusuvuori in the second round.

The 18-year career of Jo-Wilfried Tsonga came to end at Roland Garros after losing to Casper Ruud of Norway in the first round of the French Open here on Tuesday.

The 18-year career of Jo-Wilfried Tsonga came to end at Roland Garros after losing to Casper Ruud of Norway in the first round of the French Open here on Tuesday. With a vocal Court Philippe Chatrier crowd cheering him on that included close friend Gael Monfils, Tsonga fought valiantly against eighth seed Casper Ruud before the Norwegian prevailed 6-7(6), 7-6(4), 6-2, 7-6(0). The 37-year-old Tsonga soaked in a standing ovation for his storied career that includes 18 ATP Tour titles, a runner-up showing at the 2008 Australian Open and a career-high Pepperstone ATP Ranking of No. 5. "It`s tough for me and all the players that you`re stopping. You`ve been an inspiration to me and so many of the other players, so thank you for the memories," said Ruud, holding back tears in his on-court interview. "I have so many good memories watching Jo on TV. He`s such a great guy and nice person on and off the court. He`s a good example of what a player should be." Trailing 0-6 in the fourth-set tie-break, an emotional Tsonga fought back tears as they switched sides, then broke down as he stepped to the line to serve. Both men embraced at the net after a final Ruud forehand winner ended play after three hours and 49 minutes. The Court Philippe Chatrier crowd rose in unison as an emotional Tsonga waved to them before kneeling down on the court. With his family and children watching on court along with fellow French players Richard Gasquet, Benoit Paire and Monfils, he then took in a moving on-court ceremony that celebrated his career achievements. Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer and Andy Murray all sent video messages for the ceremony that praised Tsonga as a player and person. ALSO READ | French Open: World No. 4 Stefanos Tsitsipas overcomes Italy's Lorenzo Musetti challenge to advance "He`s one of the most charismatic players to play the game," said Djokovic. "He brought a lot of attention to the sport because of his charismatic game style. It`s a tremendous loss to men`s tennis, [but] he has made his mark on our sport." Injuries limited Tsonga to just 16 tour-level events since the beginning of 2020, but he was able to draw on ample experience in big matches throughout his career. He stayed with the Norwegian throughout the first set, trading service holds before sprinting to a 6/4 lead in the tie-break. Although Tsonga let slip his first two set points, he brought the crowd to its feet by converting on a third opportunity at 7/6. The second set also went to a tie-break and it appeared that Tsonga might build a two-set lead after gaining a 2/0 mini-break advantage with a drop shot winner. But as Ruud steadied his baseline game, Tsonga lost control of his and began leaking errors. Ruud took seven of the next nine points and struck a strong serve at 6/4 to level the match. Ruud broke Tsonga at 2-1 in the third set with a crosscourt forehand winner and secured an additional break at 5-2 to take a commanding advantage. Tsonga was forced to serve to keep his career alive at 4-5 in the fourth set, but bravely managed to hold on the back of aggressive baseline play. Buoyed by a crowd firmly on his side, he played a vintage game at 5-5 and broke Ruud to love. But while Ruud still looked fresh as the match surpassed three-and-a-half hours, Tsonga`s body began to break down. The pace on the Frenchman`s shots slowed considerably as he dropped serve at 6-5. Tsonga then received a medical timeout for treatment on his right shoulder before the start of the tie-break. Although there were moments of Tsonga flair in the final points that included an improvised left-handed forehand volley, Ruud swept through the tie-break without dropping a point. The eighth seed will face Emil Ruusuvuori in the second round.

French Open: Jo-Wilfried Tsonga bids tearful farewell to 18-year-long career after first-round exit

World No. 4 Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece rallied from two sets down against Italy`s Lorenzo Musetti and advanced to the second round of the French Open with a 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, 6-2 win at the Philippe-Chatrier arena. 
 
"Things don`t come easy. I refuse to give up. That`s simply how it works with me," Tsitsipas said after the match, which ended past midnight. "You never really think about getting back after being two sets to love. You just play it point after point. You just wish that your efforts will pay off on a longer scale, longer run," the Greek was quoted as saying by atptour.com. 
 
"Being in that situation... it`s a mountain that you have to climb, and I was able to climb it and regain the momentum steadily, but consistently," he added. 
 
This is the second time in less than two years that Tsitsipas has produced a great escape in the opening round in Paris. He also came back from two sets down against Jaume Munar of Spain in September 2020 in the rescheduled edition of the clay-court Grand Slam. Tsitsipas repeated the feat against Rafael Nadal at the 2021 Australian Open.

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The 20-year-old Musetti also had tournament favourite Novak Djokovic on the ropes for the second straight year at the French Open in 2021. He won two tie-breaks to take control against the Serb in the 2021 fourth round, but faded late in the match. Djokovic went on to win at Roland Garros that year. 
 
"He`s fighting. He`s a talented player that has a very nice one-handed backhand. He knows the game on clay. He has grown up playing (on) these courts," Tsitsipas opined. "He`s definitely a difficult opponent to face in any circumstance, really. 
 
"Once I really found my momentum on the serve, my routines and everything, I knew that it can be a different match," Tsitsipas said. "I felt like I was serving better than him, creating more opportunities with my serve, pressing more. It would have been kind of not fair from my perspective to have a different outcome." 
 
With the victory, Tsitsipas advances to face Czech qualifier Zdenek Kolar, who defeated France`s Lucas Pouille, 6-3, 4-6, 7-5, 6-4 earlier on Tuesday.

World No. 4 Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece rallied from two sets down against Italy`s Lorenzo Musetti and advanced to the second round of the French Open with a 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, 6-2 win at the Philippe-Chatrier arena.

World No. 4 Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece rallied from two sets down against Italy`s Lorenzo Musetti and advanced to the second round of the French Open with a 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, 6-2 win at the Philippe-Chatrier arena. "Things don`t come easy. I refuse to give up. That`s simply how it works with me," Tsitsipas said after the match, which ended past midnight. "You never really think about getting back after being two sets to love. You just play it point after point. You just wish that your efforts will pay off on a longer scale, longer run," the Greek was quoted as saying by atptour.com. "Being in that situation... it`s a mountain that you have to climb, and I was able to climb it and regain the momentum steadily, but consistently," he added. This is the second time in less than two years that Tsitsipas has produced a great escape in the opening round in Paris. He also came back from two sets down against Jaume Munar of Spain in September 2020 in the rescheduled edition of the clay-court Grand Slam. Tsitsipas repeated the feat against Rafael Nadal at the 2021 Australian Open. ALSO READ | World No. 2 Daniil Medvedev cruises past Facundo Bagnis to begin Roland Garros campaign The 20-year-old Musetti also had tournament favourite Novak Djokovic on the ropes for the second straight year at the French Open in 2021. He won two tie-breaks to take control against the Serb in the 2021 fourth round, but faded late in the match. Djokovic went on to win at Roland Garros that year. "He`s fighting. He`s a talented player that has a very nice one-handed backhand. He knows the game on clay. He has grown up playing (on) these courts," Tsitsipas opined. "He`s definitely a difficult opponent to face in any circumstance, really. "Once I really found my momentum on the serve, my routines and everything, I knew that it can be a different match," Tsitsipas said. "I felt like I was serving better than him, creating more opportunities with my serve, pressing more. It would have been kind of not fair from my perspective to have a different outcome." With the victory, Tsitsipas advances to face Czech qualifier Zdenek Kolar, who defeated France`s Lucas Pouille, 6-3, 4-6, 7-5, 6-4 earlier on Tuesday.

French Open: World No. 4 Stefanos Tsitsipas overcomes Italy's Lorenzo Musetti challenge to advance

Another obstacle on top seed Iga Swiatek`s path to a second French Open title was removed on Wednesday as fourth seed Maria Sakkari was knocked out 7-6(5) 7-6(4) by Czech Karolina Muchova in the second round at Roland Garros. Sakkari, a semi-finalist here last year, never found her groove on Court Suzanne Lenglen as her opponent, who reached the last four at the Australian Open last year, set up a meeting with American Amanda Anisimova.

The Greek is the latest casualty among the top seeds after Tunisia`s Ons Jabeur (6) and defending champion Barbora Krejcikova (2) were knocked out in the first round.

World number one and red hot favourite Swiatek and third seed Paula Badosa are the only two players from the top six left in the women`s draw.

"It`s very special. It was a big fight it was a big test for me, a challenge and I`m happy I won in two sets," said Muchova, whose last 12 months have been hampered by injuries.

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Sakkari, who had showed weaknesses in the first round against French hope Clara Burel, was outplayed initially and fell 5-2 down. Facing two set points at 40-15, she briefly found her range and her opponent got tight, allowing the Greek to reduce the arrears.

Serving for the set, Muchova then double-faulted twice as things went back on serve. Muchova wasted two more set points at 6-5 but she finally bagged the opener with a backhand winner in a tight tiebreak.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-jo-wilfried-tsonga-bids-tearful-farewell-to-18-year-long-career-after-first-round-exit-481993">French Open: Jo-Wilfried Tsonga bids tearful farewell to 18-year-long career after first-round exit</a>

Sakkari dug deep in the second set to recover a break of serve for 4-4 and then saved break points with some powerful groundstrokes as the match headed into a second tiebreak.

Muchova opened a 3-0 lead in the tiebreak but got tight again, allowing her opponent to level for 4-4. 
She regained her poise, however, and wrapped up the win with a forehand winner.

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

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

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

U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu was bundled out of the French Open in the second round on Wednesday, losing 3-6 6-1 6-1 to inspired Belarusian Aliaksandra Sasnovich. The 12th seeded Briton, who had to dig deep in her opening match to come from a set down to beat Czech qualifier Linda Noskova, was initially surprised by world number 47 Sasnovich`s attacking power.

Sasnovich was hitting the ball early, moving the Briton across the court before 19-year-old Raducanu responded in kind with some aggressive hitting. After dragging her opponent wide of the court she earned a key break to lead 4-2 and bagged the opening set when she fired a superb cross court winner. Undaunted, Sasnovich raised her game in the second set to race into a 4-0 lead.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-jo-wilfried-tsonga-bids-tearful-farewell-to-18-year-long-career-after-first-round-exit-481993">French Open: Jo-Wilfried Tsonga bids tearful farewell to 18-year-long career after first-round exit</a>

The Belarusian, who had never gone past the second round in Paris, bagged the second with yet another break and then fought off multiple break points early in the deciding set before breaking for 3-1 when Raducanu sent a wild forehand five metres over the baseline.

Raducanu, who only played on clay professionally for the first time last month and had been struggling with a back injury in recent weeks, could do nothing to turn the tide. A dominant Sasnovich put her out of her misery with a sizzling backhand down the line on her first match point after two hours.

U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu was bundled out of the French Open in the second round on Wednesday, losing 3-6 6-1 6-1 to inspired Belarusian Aliaksandra Sasnovich.

U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu was bundled out of the French Open in the second round on Wednesday, losing 3-6 6-1 6-1 to inspired Belarusian Aliaksandra Sasnovich. The 12th seeded Briton, who had to dig deep in her opening match to come from a set down to beat Czech qualifier Linda Noskova, was initially surprised by world number 47 Sasnovich`s attacking power. Sasnovich was hitting the ball early, moving the Briton across the court before 19-year-old Raducanu responded in kind with some aggressive hitting. After dragging her opponent wide of the court she earned a key break to lead 4-2 and bagged the opening set when she fired a superb cross court winner. Undaunted, Sasnovich raised her game in the second set to race into a 4-0 lead. ALSO READ | French Open: Jo-Wilfried Tsonga bids tearful farewell to 18-year-long career after first-round exit The Belarusian, who had never gone past the second round in Paris, bagged the second with yet another break and then fought off multiple break points early in the deciding set before breaking for 3-1 when Raducanu sent a wild forehand five metres over the baseline. Raducanu, who only played on clay professionally for the first time last month and had been struggling with a back injury in recent weeks, could do nothing to turn the tide. A dominant Sasnovich put her out of her misery with a sizzling backhand down the line on her first match point after two hours.

Emma Raducanu's French Open campaign cut-short after loss to Aliaksandra Sasnovich

World number two Daniil Medvedev showed no signs of discomfort from his recent hernia operation, kicking off his French Open campaign with a comfortable 6-2 6-2 6-2 win over Argentine Facundo Bagnis on Tuesday. The 2021 U.S. Open champion, who briefly held the world number one ranking earlier in the season, played his first clay event of 2022 last week in Geneva after a two-month break but lost in the opening round to Frenchman Richard Gasquet.

Clay courts have not been Medvedev`s strong suit and he was 0-4 at Roland Garros before last year`s tournament but turned around his dismal record by reaching the quarter-final of the 2021 edition of the Grand Slam. "I love Roland Garros, especially since last year," Medvedev said with a smile during his on-court interview. "Before that I don`t know if I actually loved it given that I was out on&nbsp;Sunday when the tournament was actually starting on&nbsp;Monday.

"But now it`s Tuesday and I`m still here. I`ve been well after my surgery, I didn`t think I would be able to play on clay. But with the help of the doctors and the physios I`ve been able to be back on my feet to even play a match on clay last week and I`m 100% ready to play Roland Garros."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-japans-naomi-osaka-knocked-out-in-opening-round-by-amanda-anisimova-481466">French Open: Japan's Naomi Osaka knocked out in opening round by Amanda Anisimova</a>

After trading service breaks at the start of Tuesday`s contest on a chilly and windy morning on Court Suzanne Lenglen, Medvedev took control of his first matchup against the left-handed Argentine, ranked 103rd in the world currently. The 32-year-old Bagnis, who retired with injury during his first round in Geneva, had his right leg heavily taped and suffered a fall while serving during the second set.

But he continued playing despite limping between points amid applause from the crowd. The pair traded breaks of serve once again early in the third set but Medvedev, who hit 35 winners while keeping his unforced errors in check, kept his composure and broke his opponent twice more to seal the contest. 
Medvedev will next meet the winner of the match between Lithuanian Ricardas Berankis and Laslo Djere of Serbia for a place in the third round.

World number two Daniil Medvedev showed no signs of discomfort from his recent hernia operation, kicking off his French Open campaign with a comfortable 6-2 6-2 6-2 win over Argentine Facundo Bagnis on Tuesday.

World number two Daniil Medvedev showed no signs of discomfort from his recent hernia operation, kicking off his French Open campaign with a comfortable 6-2 6-2 6-2 win over Argentine Facundo Bagnis on Tuesday. The 2021 U.S. Open champion, who briefly held the world number one ranking earlier in the season, played his first clay event of 2022 last week in Geneva after a two-month break but lost in the opening round to Frenchman Richard Gasquet. Clay courts have not been Medvedev`s strong suit and he was 0-4 at Roland Garros before last year`s tournament but turned around his dismal record by reaching the quarter-final of the 2021 edition of the Grand Slam. "I love Roland Garros, especially since last year," Medvedev said with a smile during his on-court interview. "Before that I don`t know if I actually loved it given that I was out on Sunday when the tournament was actually starting on Monday. "But now it`s Tuesday and I`m still here. I`ve been well after my surgery, I didn`t think I would be able to play on clay. But with the help of the doctors and the physios I`ve been able to be back on my feet to even play a match on clay last week and I`m 100% ready to play Roland Garros." ALSO READ | French Open: Japan's Naomi Osaka knocked out in opening round by Amanda Anisimova After trading service breaks at the start of Tuesday`s contest on a chilly and windy morning on Court Suzanne Lenglen, Medvedev took control of his first matchup against the left-handed Argentine, ranked 103rd in the world currently. The 32-year-old Bagnis, who retired with injury during his first round in Geneva, had his right leg heavily taped and suffered a fall while serving during the second set. But he continued playing despite limping between points amid applause from the crowd. The pair traded breaks of serve once again early in the third set but Medvedev, who hit 35 winners while keeping his unforced errors in check, kept his composure and broke his opponent twice more to seal the contest. Medvedev will next meet the winner of the match between Lithuanian Ricardas Berankis and Laslo Djere of Serbia for a place in the third round.

World No. 2 Daniil Medvedev cruises past Facundo Bagnis to begin Roland Garros campaign

In what can be called a comfortable beginning, Novak Djokovic advanced to the second round of the French Open after winning against Yoshihito Nishioka of Japan with scores, 6-3 6-1 6-0, on Monday.&nbsp;Djokovic, who is the world number one and holder of the title, seems to have been looking for a record-equalling 21st Grand Slam.&nbsp;As Djokovic had missed the Australian Open, it is his first Grand Slam this year. It took less than two hours for the champ to beat the Japanese player, who is world number 99 in the ranking. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tennis-nadal-destroys-thompson-to-reach-french-open-second-round-481583" hreflang="en">Rafael Nadal destroys Jordan Thompson to reach French Open second round</a>

On Sunday, the Serbian player turned 35. &nbsp;

"I have to be pleased with the match. I struggled to adapt in the first set. He is a very quick player. The first set was close but I cruised through the second and third. I always expect the highest for myself but it was a very good start," Djokovic told reporters. &nbsp;

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In the match, Djokovic was never really troubled by Nishioka. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"I looked forward to getting out on court. I have been feeling well on clay in the past few weeks. I am happy to be back. The memories from last year are fresh in my mind," Djokovic added. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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In what can be called a comfortable beginning, Novak Djokovic advanced to the second round of the French Open after winning against Yoshihito Nishioka of Japan with scores, 6-3 6-1 6-0, on Monday.

In what can be called a comfortable beginning, Novak Djokovic advanced to the second round of the French Open after winning against Yoshihito Nishioka of Japan with scores, 6-3 6-1 6-0, on Monday. Djokovic, who is the world number one and holder of the title, seems to have been looking for a record-equalling 21st Grand Slam. As Djokovic had missed the Australian Open, it is his first Grand Slam this year. It took less than two hours for the champ to beat the Japanese player, who is world number 99 in the ranking. Also Read: Rafael Nadal destroys Jordan Thompson to reach French Open second round On Sunday, the Serbian player turned 35. "I have to be pleased with the match. I struggled to adapt in the first set. He is a very quick player. The first set was close but I cruised through the second and third. I always expect the highest for myself but it was a very good start," Djokovic told reporters. WATCH WION LIVE HERE In the match, Djokovic was never really troubled by Nishioka. "I looked forward to getting out on court. I have been feeling well on clay in the past few weeks. I am happy to be back. The memories from last year are fresh in my mind," Djokovic added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Novak Djokovic wins against Yoshihito Nishioka, advances to French Open’s second round

Rafael Nadal showed no signs of pain as the 13-time French Open champion marched into the second round at Roland Garros with clinical 6-2 6-2 6-2 demolition of Australian Jordan Thompson on Monday. 
 
The Spaniard, who had never arrived in Paris as unprepared as this year after a rib injury and a chronic foot problem hampered the build-up to his beloved Grand Slam tournament, was never bothered on a chilly court Philippe Chatrier. 
 
"It`s incredible for me to play here again on Chatrier. I`m happy with this win. First round is always special," said Nadal. 
 
The 35-year-old, who has a record 21 men`s Grand Slam titles to his name, played down the chances of adding to his tally but his display was reminiscent of those of previous years.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tennis-parry-knocks-out-reigning-champion-krejcikova-to-delight-paris-crowd-481554">French Open: Diane Parry knocks out reigning champion Barbora Krejcikova in first round</a> 
 
Nadal broke for 2-1 with a backhand volley winner and his massive forehand helped him quickly move 4-1 up against an overwhelmed opponent. 
 
The fifth seed looked to finish off some points quickly and made several unusual unforced errors, but they were of little consequence as he breezed through the opening set. 
 
Nadal broke serve in the first game of the second set and again in the fifth and seventh as he started to play more neatly, bagging it with a service winner.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-2022-its-painful-playing-against-russians-says-ukraines-lesia-tsurenko-481572">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-2022-its-painful-playing-against-russians-says-ukraines-lesia-tsurenko-481572">French Open 2022: It's painful playing against Russians, says Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko</a>

Thompson, who pulled a break back, looked completely worn out by then but managed to hold it together until 2-2, when Nadal broke with a forehand volley and won all the rest of the games.

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

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

Rafael Nadal destroys Jordan Thompson to reach French Open second round

Ukraine`s Lesia Tsurenko on Monday called for stronger support for her country from the tennis world following Russia`s invasion and said she was desperate not to play Russians or Belarusians&nbsp;on the tour.

The 32-year-old Tsurenko, a qualifier in Paris who lost in the first round to overwhelming favourite Iga Swiatek, thanked her opponent for wearing a Ukraine pin but said more players needed to speak out.

"I hate what Russian propaganda is saying about Ukraine in general. I really hate it. I feel a lot of anger because there is a lot of lies about my country and it hurts me a lot," Tsurenko told a news conference.

"I don`t know if I can ask players to care more, but I would like to see that from the players, from the WTA, from the ATP, I would like top players just to support more and to show more understanding of what is really going on."

The ATP and WTA Tours last week stripped Wimbledon of its ranking points after the Grand Slam event banned Russian and Belarussian players from this year`s tournament.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tennis-parry-knocks-out-reigning-champion-krejcikova-to-delight-paris-crowd-481554">French Open: Diane Parry knocks out reigning champion Barbora Krejcikova in first round</a>

Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 calling it a "special military operation" to demilitarise and "de-nazify" its neighbour. Ukraine and the West call that a false pretext to launch a war of aggression. Belarus has been a key staging area for the invasion.

"I don`t feel good to play against Russian and Belarusian players just because it reminds me what is going on in my country," Tsurenko said.

"It`s painful, I`ll be honest. It`s very painful and I`m always hoping not to get them in my draw."

She has played against Russians several times this year, including once since the invasion.

"I don`t feel good and it was also another question that I had inside of me if I should play or I should just give up, you know, should I just decide not to play against them," she said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-japans-naomi-osaka-knocked-out-in-opening-round-by-amanda-anisimova-481466">French Open: Japan's Naomi Osaka knocked out in opening round by Amanda Anisimova</a>

Russian and Belarusian tennis players are competing on the tour as neutral athletes. Tsurenko backed Wimbledon`s decision to ban players from Russia and Belarus, saying it was only a small price to pay for what was happening in Ukraine.

"We see a lot of sports, they banned Russians. In tennis it`s only one tournament," she said. "I honestly think that this is not a very big price for them (Russians and Belarusians) to pay or to accept."

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

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

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

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