Rafael Nadal beat Daniil Medvedev in the Australia Open final on Sunday to win a men`s record 21st Grand Slam title.

The following is a timeline charting how Nadal, playing in what is considered to be the greatest era of men`s tennis, surpassed the haul of Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.

2003: Federer became the newest entrant into the Grand Slam club with the first of his eight Wimbledon titles, beating Mark Philippoussis in the final.

Tally: Federer 1

2004: The Swiss flexed his muscles by winning three majors -- the Australian Open, Wimbledon and the U.S. Open.

Tally: Federer 4

2005: While Federer defended his Wimbledon and U.S. Open titles, Nadal burst on to the scene with his first French Open title beating Mariano Puerta in the final.

Tally: Federer 6; Nadal 1

2006: Federer`s domination continued as he won three majors, including beating Nadal in the Wimbledon final, but Nadal laid the foundation for his claycourt reign with his second French Open title.

Tally: Federer 9; Nadal 2

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2007: The seemingly unstoppable Federer repeated his feat from the previous year but the French Open title continued to elude him as Nadal thwarted him in the final for a second straight year.

Tally: Federer 12; Nadal 3

2008: Djokovic hit the big time with his maiden major, beating Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in the Australian Open final. After his French Open triumph, Nadal stunned Federer in the Wimbledon final but the Swiss responded by winning the U.S. Open.

Tally: Federer 13; Nadal 5; Djokovic 1

2009: Nadal won his first hardcourt Grand Slam title, edging out Federer in five sets in the Australian Open final. However, Nadal`s 31-match winning streak at Roland Garros ended in the fourth round, allowing Federer to claim his only French crown.

Nadal was unable to defend his Wimbledon title as he was forced to pull out with knee problems. The Swiss went on to claim his record 15th major at Wimbledon, surpassing Pete Sampras` record tally.

Tally: Federer 15; Nadal 6; Djokovic 1

2010: Federer started the year by winning the Australian Open for a fourth time. But it turned out to be Nadal`s finest campaign as he swept the next three majors. He defeated Djokovic in the U.S. Open final to complete a career Grand Slam.

Tally: Federer 16; Nadal 9; Djokovic 1

2011: The Big Two became the Big Three as Djokovic won 10 titles in 2011, including three majors at the Australian Open, Wimbledon and the U.S. Open. Meanwhile, Nadal reclaimed his French Open crown for his 10th major title overall.

Tally: Federer 16; Nadal 10; Djokovic 4

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2012: Djokovic overcame Nadal in the longest Grand Slam final in the Open Era to win his third Australian Open title. 
Nadal continued his dominant run at Roland Garros to add another major title to his tally, while Federer won a record-extending 17th major at Wimbledon.

Tally: Federer 17; Nadal 11; Djokovic 5

2013: Djokovic won his third straight Australian Open by defeating Andy Murray in the final. While Federer struggled with a back injury, Nadal finished the year as number one after defending his French Open crown and adding another U.S. Open title to his tally.

Tally: Federer 17; Nadal 13; Djokovic 6

2014: Again Federer failed to add to his Grand Slam tally as Nadal won his ninth French Open title, equalling Sampras` total of 14 slams. Djokovic defeated Federer in the Wimbledon final.

Tally: Federer 17; Nadal 14; Djokovic 7

2015: Djokovic accelerates, winning the Australian Open, Wimbledon and U.S. Open and also became only the second man to defeat Nadal at the French Open when he beat the Spaniard in the quarter-finals, only to lose to Stan Wawrinka in the final.

Tally: Federer 17; Nadal 14; Djokovic 10

2016: Djokovic defended his Australian Open crown before winning his maiden French Open title, making him the holder of all four majors -- a feat the media dubbed the "Nole Slam". Nadal and Federer were both plagued by injuries during the season and failed to add to their Grand Slam hauls.

Tally: Federer 17; Nadal 14; Djokovic 12

2017: Federer won his 18th slam -- and his first since Wimbledon 2012 -- with a thrilling five-set victory over Nadal in the Australian Open final.

Nadal cemented his place as the greatest claycourter in history when he secured a record 10th title in Roland Garros. Federer became the first man to win Wimbledon eight times with victory over Marin Cilic in the final, before Nadal clinched his third U.S. Open title. Djokovic missed the second part of the year with an elbow problem.

Tally: Federer 19; Nadal 16; Djokovic 12

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2018: Federer won his sixth Australian Open to become only the fourth player after Margaret Court, Serena Williams and Steffi Graf to win 20 or more major singles titles. Nadal extended his winning run at Roland Garros, before Djokovic earned his first major in more than two years at Wimbledon.

A third triumph in New York ensured Djokovic had equalled Sampras` tally of 14 majors and was now only behind Federer and Nadal in the all-time list.

Tally: Federer 20; Nadal 17; Djokovic 14

2019: Nadal closes to within one of Federer`s total as he maintained his stranglehold at the French Open and beat rising Russian Daniil Medvedev to win the U.S. Open.

Djokovic won a third successive major and a seventh Australian Open with a dominant straight sets win over Nadal and saved two match points against Federer to win a fifth Wimbledon title in a five-set classic.

Tally: Federer 20; Nadal 19; Djokovic 16

2020: Djokovic reeled off another Australian Open title but was thrashed 6-0 6-2 7-5 in the Roland Garros final by Nadal who moved alongside Federer for the first time with a record-equalling 20th men`s major title. With Nadal and Federer absent from the U.S. Open, Djokovic missed an opportunity to close the gap on his rivals after being disqualified from his fourth-round match for accidentally hitting a ball at a line judge.

Tally: Federer 20; Nadal 20; Djokovic 17

2021: Djokovic appears set to eclipse Nadal and Federer as he stormed to a ninth Australian Open title, beat Nadal in the French Open semi-final before downing Greece`s Stefanos Tsitsipas in the final and outclassed Italian Matteo Berrettini in the Wimbledon final.

Victory over Medvedev in the U.S. Open final would have sealed a first men`s calendar year Grand Slam since Rod Laver in 1969, and the lead in the G.O.A.T (greatest of all time) race, but the Serbian was surprisingly beaten. 
Nadal missed the second half of the year with a foot injury while Federer was also sidelined by a knee injury.

Tally: Federer 20, Nadal 20, Djokovic 20

2022: Nadal admitted that he was just pleased to be playing in Melbourne after fearing his foot injury might end his career. But with Djokovic deported after his visa was cancelled and Federer absent through injury, the Spaniard rolled back the years, becoming the first man to win 21 Grand Slam titles by beating Medvedev to claim the Australian Open for the first time since 2009.

Tally: Nadal 21, Federer 20, Djokovic 20

Rafael Nadal beat Daniil Medvedev in the Australia Open final on Sunday to win a men`s record 21st Grand Slam title. The following is a timeline charting how Nadal, playing in what is considered to be the greatest era of men`s tennis, surpassed the haul of Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.

Rafael Nadal beat Daniil Medvedev in the Australia Open final on Sunday to win a men`s record 21st Grand Slam title. The following is a timeline charting how Nadal, playing in what is considered to be the greatest era of men`s tennis, surpassed the haul of Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic. 2003: Federer became the newest entrant into the Grand Slam club with the first of his eight Wimbledon titles, beating Mark Philippoussis in the final. Tally: Federer 1 2004: The Swiss flexed his muscles by winning three majors -- the Australian Open, Wimbledon and the U.S. Open. Tally: Federer 4 2005: While Federer defended his Wimbledon and U.S. Open titles, Nadal burst on to the scene with his first French Open title beating Mariano Puerta in the final. Tally: Federer 6; Nadal 1 2006: Federer`s domination continued as he won three majors, including beating Nadal in the Wimbledon final, but Nadal laid the foundation for his claycourt reign with his second French Open title. Tally: Federer 9; Nadal 2 Reda Also | Rafael Nadal beats Daniil Medvedev to win Austraian Open 2022, bags record 21st Grand Slam title 2007: The seemingly unstoppable Federer repeated his feat from the previous year but the French Open title continued to elude him as Nadal thwarted him in the final for a second straight year. Tally: Federer 12; Nadal 3 2008: Djokovic hit the big time with his maiden major, beating Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in the Australian Open final. After his French Open triumph, Nadal stunned Federer in the Wimbledon final but the Swiss responded by winning the U.S. Open. Tally: Federer 13; Nadal 5; Djokovic 1 2009: Nadal won his first hardcourt Grand Slam title, edging out Federer in five sets in the Australian Open final. However, Nadal`s 31-match winning streak at Roland Garros ended in the fourth round, allowing Federer to claim his only French crown. Nadal was unable to defend his Wimbledon title as he was forced to pull out with knee problems. The Swiss went on to claim his record 15th major at Wimbledon, surpassing Pete Sampras` record tally. Tally: Federer 15; Nadal 6; Djokovic 1 2010: Federer started the year by winning the Australian Open for a fourth time. But it turned out to be Nadal`s finest campaign as he swept the next three majors. He defeated Djokovic in the U.S. Open final to complete a career Grand Slam. Tally: Federer 16; Nadal 9; Djokovic 1 2011: The Big Two became the Big Three as Djokovic won 10 titles in 2011, including three majors at the Australian Open, Wimbledon and the U.S. Open. Meanwhile, Nadal reclaimed his French Open crown for his 10th major title overall. Tally: Federer 16; Nadal 10; Djokovic 4 Read Also | Intruder halts play in Australian Open final between Rafael Nadal and Daniil Medvedev 2012: Djokovic overcame Nadal in the longest Grand Slam final in the Open Era to win his third Australian Open title. Nadal continued his dominant run at Roland Garros to add another major title to his tally, while Federer won a record-extending 17th major at Wimbledon. Tally: Federer 17; Nadal 11; Djokovic 5 2013: Djokovic won his third straight Australian Open by defeating Andy Murray in the final. While Federer struggled with a back injury, Nadal finished the year as number one after defending his French Open crown and adding another U.S. Open title to his tally. Tally: Federer 17; Nadal 13; Djokovic 6 2014: Again Federer failed to add to his Grand Slam tally as Nadal won his ninth French Open title, equalling Sampras` total of 14 slams. Djokovic defeated Federer in the Wimbledon final. Tally: Federer 17; Nadal 14; Djokovic 7 2015: Djokovic accelerates, winning the Australian Open, Wimbledon and U.S. Open and also became only the second man to defeat Nadal at the French Open when he beat the Spaniard in the quarter-finals, only to lose to Stan Wawrinka in the final. Tally: Federer 17; Nadal 14; Djokovic 10 2016: Djokovic defended his Australian Open crown before winning his maiden French Open title, making him the holder of all four majors -- a feat the media dubbed the "Nole Slam". Nadal and Federer were both plagued by injuries during the season and failed to add to their Grand Slam hauls. Tally: Federer 17; Nadal 14; Djokovic 12 2017: Federer won his 18th slam -- and his first since Wimbledon 2012 -- with a thrilling five-set victory over Nadal in the Australian Open final. Nadal cemented his place as the greatest claycourter in history when he secured a record 10th title in Roland Garros. Federer became the first man to win Wimbledon eight times with victory over Marin Cilic in the final, before Nadal clinched his third U.S. Open title. Djokovic missed the second part of the year with an elbow problem. Tally: Federer 19; Nadal 16; Djokovic 12 Read Also | Australian Open: Barbara Krejcikova and Katerina Siniakova fight back to win women's doubles title 2018: Federer won his sixth Australian Open to become only the fourth player after Margaret Court, Serena Williams and Steffi Graf to win 20 or more major singles titles. Nadal extended his winning run at Roland Garros, before Djokovic earned his first major in more than two years at Wimbledon. A third triumph in New York ensured Djokovic had equalled Sampras` tally of 14 majors and was now only behind Federer and Nadal in the all-time list. Tally: Federer 20; Nadal 17; Djokovic 14 2019: Nadal closes to within one of Federer`s total as he maintained his stranglehold at the French Open and beat rising Russian Daniil Medvedev to win the U.S. Open. Djokovic won a third successive major and a seventh Australian Open with a dominant straight sets win over Nadal and saved two match points against Federer to win a fifth Wimbledon title in a five-set classic. Tally: Federer 20; Nadal 19; Djokovic 16 2020: Djokovic reeled off another Australian Open title but was thrashed 6-0 6-2 7-5 in the Roland Garros final by Nadal who moved alongside Federer for the first time with a record-equalling 20th men`s major title. With Nadal and Federer absent from the U.S. Open, Djokovic missed an opportunity to close the gap on his rivals after being disqualified from his fourth-round match for accidentally hitting a ball at a line judge. Tally: Federer 20; Nadal 20; Djokovic 17 2021: Djokovic appears set to eclipse Nadal and Federer as he stormed to a ninth Australian Open title, beat Nadal in the French Open semi-final before downing Greece`s Stefanos Tsitsipas in the final and outclassed Italian Matteo Berrettini in the Wimbledon final. Victory over Medvedev in the U.S. Open final would have sealed a first men`s calendar year Grand Slam since Rod Laver in 1969, and the lead in the G.O.A.T (greatest of all time) race, but the Serbian was surprisingly beaten. Nadal missed the second half of the year with a foot injury while Federer was also sidelined by a knee injury. Tally: Federer 20, Nadal 20, Djokovic 20 2022: Nadal admitted that he was just pleased to be playing in Melbourne after fearing his foot injury might end his career. But with Djokovic deported after his visa was cancelled and Federer absent through injury, the Spaniard rolled back the years, becoming the first man to win 21 Grand Slam titles by beating Medvedev to claim the Australian Open for the first time since 2009. Tally: Nadal 21, Federer 20, Djokovic 20

Rafael Nadal's incredible journey to a men's record 21 Grand Slam titles

Nick Kyrgios has withdrawn from the Melbourne Summer Set ATP 250 event due to asthma, organisers said on Tuesday, leaving him with only one tournament to prepare for the Australian Open later this month. 
 
Kyrgios, a crowd favourite at Melbourne Park, has not played since late September due to knee issues and has slipped to 93rd in the rankings, which ruled him out of contention for the Australian team for the season-opening ATP Cup in Sydney. 
 
The 26-year-old, who played only 15 matches in 2021, winning seven of them, was scheduled to take on Slovakian Alex Molcan at Melbourne Park on Tuesday. Kyrgios will now begin his 2022 season at the Sydney Tennis Classic next week after being handed a wild card for the event.

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"I`m really sorry that I`ve had to pull out from this Melbourne Summer Set event. I`ve been feeling run down and unwell for four days," Kyrgios said in a statement. 
 
"I`ve had several COVID tests over the last few days which all came back negative. I don`t feel 100% so I need to take this week to be ready for Sydney next week. 
 
"I was really looking forward to experiencing the best fans in the world here at home. I can`t wait to get back out there and see you all." 
 
The Australian Open will begin on Jan. 17.

Nick Kyrgios has withdrawn from the Melbourne Summer Set ATP 250 event due to asthma, organisers said on Tuesday, leaving him with only one tournament to prepare for the Australian Open later this month.

Nick Kyrgios has withdrawn from the Melbourne Summer Set ATP 250 event due to asthma, organisers said on Tuesday, leaving him with only one tournament to prepare for the Australian Open later this month. Kyrgios, a crowd favourite at Melbourne Park, has not played since late September due to knee issues and has slipped to 93rd in the rankings, which ruled him out of contention for the Australian team for the season-opening ATP Cup in Sydney. The 26-year-old, who played only 15 matches in 2021, winning seven of them, was scheduled to take on Slovakian Alex Molcan at Melbourne Park on Tuesday. Kyrgios will now begin his 2022 season at the Sydney Tennis Classic next week after being handed a wild card for the event. ALSO READ | Teen sensation Emma Raducanu pulls out of Australian Open warm-up event in Melbourne "I`m really sorry that I`ve had to pull out from this Melbourne Summer Set event. I`ve been feeling run down and unwell for four days," Kyrgios said in a statement. "I`ve had several COVID tests over the last few days which all came back negative. I don`t feel 100% so I need to take this week to be ready for Sydney next week. "I was really looking forward to experiencing the best fans in the world here at home. I can`t wait to get back out there and see you all." The Australian Open will begin on Jan. 17.

Australian Open: Nick Kyrgios opts out of warm-up event due to asthma

World number one Novak Djokovic was named on the official entry list for next year's Australian Open on Wednesday but 23-times Grand Slam singles champion Serena Williams will not play on the advice of her medical team.

Djokovic has declined to disclose his vaccination status despite all players, officials, staff and fans at the Jan. 17-30 tournament at Melbourne Park needing to be inoculated against COVID-19.

Tennis Australia later told local media that his presence on the list was not a guarantee the Serbian would play.

Williams, who won the last of her seven Australian Open titles in 2017, had an injury-disrupted season and has not played since she limped out of her first-round match at Wimbledon in June due to the leg injury.

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Tournament organiser Craig Tiley said last month that the 40-year-old American, who needs one more Grand Slam title to match Margaret Court's record of 24, would be playing at Melbourne Park.

"Following the advice of my medical team, I have decided to withdraw from this year's Australian Open," Williams said in a statement.

"While this is never an easy decision to make, I am not where I need to be physically to compete. I will miss seeing the fans but am excited to return and compete at my highest level."

Djokovic, who will be bidding for a record 21st Grand Slam men's singles title if he plays at the tournament, said last week that he would be making a decision "very soon" about travelling to Australia.

The 34-year-old was also named in the Serbia team for the ATP Cup, which will be held in Sydney in early January, when that was released on Tuesday.

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Williams's name was the most obvious omission from the field with 20-times Grand Slam champion Roger Federer having already confirmed that he would skip the event as he recovers from another round of knee surgeries.

Stan Wawrinka, who won the first of his three Grand Slam titles at Melbourne Park in 2014, was also absent from the men`s field.

World number one Novak Djokovic was named on the official entry list for next year's Australian Open on Wednesday but 23-times Grand Slam singles champion Serena Williams will not play on the advice of her medical team.

World number one Novak Djokovic was named on the official entry list for next year's Australian Open on Wednesday but 23-times Grand Slam singles champion Serena Williams will not play on the advice of her medical team. Djokovic has declined to disclose his vaccination status despite all players, officials, staff and fans at the Jan. 17-30 tournament at Melbourne Park needing to be inoculated against COVID-19. Tennis Australia later told local media that his presence on the list was not a guarantee the Serbian would play. Williams, who won the last of her seven Australian Open titles in 2017, had an injury-disrupted season and has not played since she limped out of her first-round match at Wimbledon in June due to the leg injury. ALSO READ: Novak Djokovic named in Serbia team for 2022 ATP Cup in Sydney; yet to commit to Australian Open Tournament organiser Craig Tiley said last month that the 40-year-old American, who needs one more Grand Slam title to match Margaret Court's record of 24, would be playing at Melbourne Park. "Following the advice of my medical team, I have decided to withdraw from this year's Australian Open," Williams said in a statement. "While this is never an easy decision to make, I am not where I need to be physically to compete. I will miss seeing the fans but am excited to return and compete at my highest level." Djokovic, who will be bidding for a record 21st Grand Slam men's singles title if he plays at the tournament, said last week that he would be making a decision "very soon" about travelling to Australia. The 34-year-old was also named in the Serbia team for the ATP Cup, which will be held in Sydney in early January, when that was released on Tuesday. ALSO READ | Novak Djokovic spends 350th week atop, eyes WTA legend Steffi Graf's all-time record Williams's name was the most obvious omission from the field with 20-times Grand Slam champion Roger Federer having already confirmed that he would skip the event as he recovers from another round of knee surgeries. Stan Wawrinka, who won the first of his three Grand Slam titles at Melbourne Park in 2014, was also absent from the men`s field.

Serena Williams withdraws from 2022 Australian Open, Novak Djokovic on entry list

Australian Open is just around the corner and participation of one of the biggest names in the tennis world, Novak Djokovic, is still uncertain after organisers said that only fully-vaccinated players will be allowed into the country owing to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.&nbsp;

After Serbia's 2-1 defeat against Croatia in the Davis Cup semi-finals on Friday (December 3), Djokovic was addressing a virtual press conference where he promised to make the final decision on his Australian Open participation "very soon".&nbsp;

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During the presser, he said, "Honestly, I'm going to try to use the next days to just rejuvenate, recover, and forget about tennis. So right now I understand you want some answers on where I start the season, how I start it. I'm really, really tired from this season and this whole year, so I just prefer sticking to the family quality time, rehab mode, then let's see what the future brings."

"I'm not going to give you an answer tonight. I know what you want to ask me. But you will be informed. That's all I can tell you. I cannot give you any date. Obviously, Australia is around the corner, so you will know very soon," he added.&nbsp;

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The 34-year-old Djokovic has repeatedly declined to reveal whether he has been vaccinated against COVID-19 or not. Last week, with his father Srdjan told a media outlet that the world's top-ranked player would probably pull out of the tournament.&nbsp;

In 2021, the world number one captured three of the season's four Grand Slams that levelled him with Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal on 20. His dream of winning the record Grand Slam remains doubtful as the Australian Open organisers insisted only fully-vaccinated players will be allowed into the country.

Australian Open is just around the corner and participation of one of the biggest names in the tennis world, Novak Djokovic, is still uncertain after organisers said that only fully-vaccinated players will be allowed into the country owing to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Australian Open is just around the corner and participation of one of the biggest names in the tennis world, Novak Djokovic, is still uncertain after organisers said that only fully-vaccinated players will be allowed into the country owing to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. After Serbia's 2-1 defeat against Croatia in the Davis Cup semi-finals on Friday (December 3), Djokovic was addressing a virtual press conference where he promised to make the final decision on his Australian Open participation "very soon". ALSO READ | US supports WTA for call to suspend tournaments in China over Peng Shuai concerns During the presser, he said, "Honestly, I'm going to try to use the next days to just rejuvenate, recover, and forget about tennis. So right now I understand you want some answers on where I start the season, how I start it. I'm really, really tired from this season and this whole year, so I just prefer sticking to the family quality time, rehab mode, then let's see what the future brings." "I'm not going to give you an answer tonight. I know what you want to ask me. But you will be informed. That's all I can tell you. I cannot give you any date. Obviously, Australia is around the corner, so you will know very soon," he added. ALSO READ: ATP urges for 'communication' between Peng Shuai and WTA after suspension of tennis tournaments in China The 34-year-old Djokovic has repeatedly declined to reveal whether he has been vaccinated against COVID-19 or not. Last week, with his father Srdjan told a media outlet that the world's top-ranked player would probably pull out of the tournament. In 2021, the world number one captured three of the season's four Grand Slams that levelled him with Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal on 20. His dream of winning the record Grand Slam remains doubtful as the Australian Open organisers insisted only fully-vaccinated players will be allowed into the country.

Novak Djokovic to make Australian Open decision 'very soon' as participation remains doubtful

Tennis legend Roger Federer is set to miss the first Grand Slam of next year — &nbsp;the Australian Open — as his participation in the competitions until mid-2022 is highly unlikely, which makes his appearance in the Wimbledon also doubtful. The former world number one, who is recovering from multiple knee surgeries, told Swiss media that he would be "extremely surprised" if he was able to play at Wimbledon.&nbsp;

The 40-year-old said that he will be able to resume running quietly in January and resume sessions on the court with "complex support" in March or April. He further informed that he estimates his return to competition in the summer of 2022.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

Federer had two knee operations in 2020 and remained out of the tour for more than a year and returned to action in March, playing only 13 matches this year.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;Switzerland great withdrew from the French Open in June after winning his third-round match. Another injury forced Federer to skip the US Open as he went under the knife again and he said doctors also fixed cartilage in his knee.

Federer told that he underwent the operation so that he could ski with his children or play football or tennis in the future. To lead a normal life was his aim to get back in shape, however, he wanted to approach the rehabilitation with the "mentality and body of a top athlete".&nbsp;

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In an interview carried by several Swiss media outlets, Federer said, "I need to be very patient and give my knee the time to heal. The next few months will be crucial. Australia is not an option at all. But that's no surprise for me. Even before the operation, we knew that a break of many months would be necessary afterwards."&nbsp;

"As far as my sporting ambitions are concerned: I want to see once again what I can achieve as a tennis pro. I'm fighting for it and I'm very motivated. I feel the support of my team and my family. We all wish that I can say goodbye on my own terms and on a court. My world will not collapse if I never play in another Grand Slam final. But it is my ultimate dream to return once again. And in fact, I still believe in it. I believe in these kinds of miracles. I have already experienced them," he further said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Tennis legend Roger Federer is set to miss the first Grand Slam of next year — the Australian Open — as his participation in the competitions until mid-2022 is highly unlikely, which makes his appearance in the Wimbledon also doubtful.

Tennis legend Roger Federer is set to miss the first Grand Slam of next year — the Australian Open — as his participation in the competitions until mid-2022 is highly unlikely, which makes his appearance in the Wimbledon also doubtful. The former world number one, who is recovering from multiple knee surgeries, told Swiss media that he would be "extremely surprised" if he was able to play at Wimbledon. The 40-year-old said that he will be able to resume running quietly in January and resume sessions on the court with "complex support" in March or April. He further informed that he estimates his return to competition in the summer of 2022. ALSO READ | Chinese star Peng Shuai's safety comes ahead of business, assures former WTA CEO Stacey Allaster Federer had two knee operations in 2020 and remained out of the tour for more than a year and returned to action in March, playing only 13 matches this year. The Switzerland great withdrew from the French Open in June after winning his third-round match. Another injury forced Federer to skip the US Open as he went under the knife again and he said doctors also fixed cartilage in his knee. Federer told that he underwent the operation so that he could ski with his children or play football or tennis in the future. To lead a normal life was his aim to get back in shape, however, he wanted to approach the rehabilitation with the "mentality and body of a top athlete". ALSO READ | International Cricket Council forms working group to determine cricket's Afghan future In an interview carried by several Swiss media outlets, Federer said, "I need to be very patient and give my knee the time to heal. The next few months will be crucial. Australia is not an option at all. But that's no surprise for me. Even before the operation, we knew that a break of many months would be necessary afterwards." "As far as my sporting ambitions are concerned: I want to see once again what I can achieve as a tennis pro. I'm fighting for it and I'm very motivated. I feel the support of my team and my family. We all wish that I can say goodbye on my own terms and on a court. My world will not collapse if I never play in another Grand Slam final. But it is my ultimate dream to return once again. And in fact, I still believe in it. I believe in these kinds of miracles. I have already experienced them," he further said.

'I'm fighting for it': Roger Federer out of Australian Open, participation in Wimbledon remains doubtful

With no teenagers and no Daniil Medvedev left in the draw, this tournament will definitely not be a repeat of the U.S. Open.

Medvedev, so cool and pressure-proof on his way to his first Grand Slam title last month in New York, looked ready to keep rolling Wednesday at the BNP Paribas Open.

He led Grigor Dimitrov by a set and two breaks of serve in the round of 16. But tennis remains an unpredictable game, and the top-seeded Medvedev proceeded to lose his way in the desert sunshine as Dimitrov, playing patiently and boldly at just the right times, reeled off wins in eight consecutive games and then held firm to finish off the upset, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3.

“Impossible until possible, I guess,” Dimitrov said in a television interview.

But if this is not the U.S. Open, it is not truly the Indian Wells tournament, either. That event, usually held annually in March, has grown in size and stature under its free-spending owner, Larry Ellison, becoming the most popular and prestigious tour stop after the four Grand Slam tournaments and the year-end tour finals.

In 2019, 475,000 spectators came to the Indian Wells Tennis Garden during the event’s nearly two-week run, filling up the stadium courts and the upscale restaurants that overlook them. In recent years, the tournament generated an estimated annual economic impact of more than $400 million in the greater Palm Springs region.

But in March 2020, it became the first major international sports event to be canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic. The decision, which was ultimately Ellison’s call, turned out to be the correct one. Though there were skeptics when the move was announced just before the qualifying tournament, other leagues and events soon followed as the scope and threat of the pandemic became clearer.

“We thought they were nuts at first for calling it off,” Krystal Meier, a longtime fan and tournament attendee from Long Beach, said last week. “How could anybody have known what was coming?”

This year, the BNP Paribas Open was moved from March to October, and though the prize money is roughly the same as in 2019, the star power and atmosphere are not.

According to tournament officials, attendance is on track to be about half of what it was in 2019. The change in date is certainly a factor. Many seasonal residents have yet to arrive in the area, and regulars who made March attendance a tradition were clearly not ready to embrace October.

The decision to require vaccination of all spectators may have limited the overall numbers while reassuring some fans. “When we saw everybody was going to be vaccinated, we definitely felt better about coming,” Meier said.

But there is still underlying concern about attending mass events and traveling too far from home. More than 87% of the spectators in 2019 were from outside the Palm Springs area.

Another reason for the smaller crowds is surely the changing of the guard in tennis. The tournament is missing the two biggest stars in the women’s game (Serena Williams and Naomi Osaka) and the three biggest stars in the men’s game (Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic).

Federer, 40, and Nadal, 35, are recovering from injuries, and they announced the end of their 2020 seasons in August. Djokovic, 34, is resting and recovering after losing to Medvedev in straight sets in last month’s U.S. Open final, a defeat that stopped him just short of becoming the first man to complete a Grand Slam in singles since Rod Laver in 1969.

Dominic Thiem, who won the men’s title here in 2019, is also out with an injury. He, like the other high-profile absentees, still has a presence in Indian Wells. In a nod to the obvious, tournament organizers have put life-size images of all of them on a wall behind Stadium 2 featuring the words “We miss you.” It has become a magnet during the event, with fans posing for photographs next to the photographs.

Posing next to flesh-and-blood players has been much trickier because of the pandemic restrictions, which have meant a ban on official autograph sessions. (Informal signings have still taken place.)

None of the women’s singles quarterfinalists in New York reached the quarterfinals here, with surprise Open champion Emma Raducanu losing in her opening match to the 100th-ranked Aliaksandra Sasnovich.

The far more experienced Medvedev fared better with his bedeviling blend of offense and defense, and he fared very well against Dimitrov until he took a 4-1 lead in the second set.

But Dimitrov, the Bulgarian who is seeded No. 23, was opportunistic enough to change the momentum. At 30, he has yet to reach the heights that have seemed his destiny, given his stylish, all-court game. But he remains a dangerous opponent, and after showing flashes of fine form at the San Diego Open the week before Indian Wells, he lifted his game Wednesday as Medvedev’s dropped.

“He definitely flipped the switch,” Medvedev said. “It’s not that I started missing everything and like really playing bad. I still maintained some level, if we can call it like this. In so many matches, it would be enough to finish the match.”

Once in the rallies, Dimitrov almost exclusively sliced his single-handed backhand down the stretch and waited — and waited — to take big risks with his forehand. Most of them paid off in the final set, and he took a 5-1 lead as Medvedev expressed displeasure in rare fashion by breaking a racket between his first and second serves (he double faulted) and going on to lose his serve for the sixth time.

“That shows how slow this court is, and the conditions are more like clay, I would say, which I don’t like,” Medvedev said.

Dimitrov soon lost his serve, too, as he tried to finish off the upset at 5-1, but he did not falter at 5-3, holding at love and thrusting both arms into the air.

Though the sky above him was typical Indian Wells — clear and azure — what was happening back on earth remained anything but business as usual.

With no teenagers and no Daniil Medvedev left in the draw, this tournament will definitely not be a repeat of the U.S. Open. Medvedev, so cool and pressure-proof on his way to his first Grand Slam title last month in New York, looked ready to keep rolling Wednesday at the BNP Paribas Open.

With no teenagers and no Daniil Medvedev left in the draw, this tournament will definitely not be a repeat of the U.S. Open. Medvedev, so cool and pressure-proof on his way to his first Grand Slam title last month in New York, looked ready to keep rolling Wednesday at the BNP Paribas Open. He led Grigor Dimitrov by a set and two breaks of serve in the round of 16. But tennis remains an unpredictable game, and the top-seeded Medvedev proceeded to lose his way in the desert sunshine as Dimitrov, playing patiently and boldly at just the right times, reeled off wins in eight consecutive games and then held firm to finish off the upset, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3. “Impossible until possible, I guess,” Dimitrov said in a television interview. But if this is not the U.S. Open, it is not truly the Indian Wells tournament, either. That event, usually held annually in March, has grown in size and stature under its free-spending owner, Larry Ellison, becoming the most popular and prestigious tour stop after the four Grand Slam tournaments and the year-end tour finals. In 2019, 475,000 spectators came to the Indian Wells Tennis Garden during the event’s nearly two-week run, filling up the stadium courts and the upscale restaurants that overlook them. In recent years, the tournament generated an estimated annual economic impact of more than $400 million in the greater Palm Springs region. But in March 2020, it became the first major international sports event to be canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic. The decision, which was ultimately Ellison’s call, turned out to be the correct one. Though there were skeptics when the move was announced just before the qualifying tournament, other leagues and events soon followed as the scope and threat of the pandemic became clearer. “We thought they were nuts at first for calling it off,” Krystal Meier, a longtime fan and tournament attendee from Long Beach, said last week. “How could anybody have known what was coming?” This year, the BNP Paribas Open was moved from March to October, and though the prize money is roughly the same as in 2019, the star power and atmosphere are not. According to tournament officials, attendance is on track to be about half of what it was in 2019. The change in date is certainly a factor. Many seasonal residents have yet to arrive in the area, and regulars who made March attendance a tradition were clearly not ready to embrace October. The decision to require vaccination of all spectators may have limited the overall numbers while reassuring some fans. “When we saw everybody was going to be vaccinated, we definitely felt better about coming,” Meier said. But there is still underlying concern about attending mass events and traveling too far from home. More than 87% of the spectators in 2019 were from outside the Palm Springs area. Another reason for the smaller crowds is surely the changing of the guard in tennis. The tournament is missing the two biggest stars in the women’s game (Serena Williams and Naomi Osaka) and the three biggest stars in the men’s game (Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic). Federer, 40, and Nadal, 35, are recovering from injuries, and they announced the end of their 2020 seasons in August. Djokovic, 34, is resting and recovering after losing to Medvedev in straight sets in last month’s U.S. Open final, a defeat that stopped him just short of becoming the first man to complete a Grand Slam in singles since Rod Laver in 1969. Dominic Thiem, who won the men’s title here in 2019, is also out with an injury. He, like the other high-profile absentees, still has a presence in Indian Wells. In a nod to the obvious, tournament organizers have put life-size images of all of them on a wall behind Stadium 2 featuring the words “We miss you.” It has become a magnet during the event, with fans posing for photographs next to the photographs. Posing next to flesh-and-blood players has been much trickier because of the pandemic restrictions, which have meant a ban on official autograph sessions. (Informal signings have still taken place.) None of the women’s singles quarterfinalists in New York reached the quarterfinals here, with surprise Open champion Emma Raducanu losing in her opening match to the 100th-ranked Aliaksandra Sasnovich. The far more experienced Medvedev fared better with his bedeviling blend of offense and defense, and he fared very well against Dimitrov until he took a 4-1 lead in the second set. But Dimitrov, the Bulgarian who is seeded No. 23, was opportunistic enough to change the momentum. At 30, he has yet to reach the heights that have seemed his destiny, given his stylish, all-court game. But he remains a dangerous opponent, and after showing flashes of fine form at the San Diego Open the week before Indian Wells, he lifted his game Wednesday as Medvedev’s dropped. “He definitely flipped the switch,” Medvedev said. “It’s not that I started missing everything and like really playing bad. I still maintained some level, if we can call it like this. In so many matches, it would be enough to finish the match.” Once in the rallies, Dimitrov almost exclusively sliced his single-handed backhand down the stretch and waited — and waited — to take big risks with his forehand. Most of them paid off in the final set, and he took a 5-1 lead as Medvedev expressed displeasure in rare fashion by breaking a racket between his first and second serves (he double faulted) and going on to lose his serve for the sixth time. “That shows how slow this court is, and the conditions are more like clay, I would say, which I don’t like,” Medvedev said. Dimitrov soon lost his serve, too, as he tried to finish off the upset at 5-1, but he did not falter at 5-3, holding at love and thrusting both arms into the air. Though the sky above him was typical Indian Wells — clear and azure — what was happening back on earth remained anything but business as usual.

US Open stars fall at Indian Wells, which struggles to draw a crowd

World number one Novak Djokovic is a match away from one of the highest achievements across sports, with a calendar Grand Slam on the line after he overcame German Alexander Zverev 4-6, 6-2, 6-4, 4-6, 6-2 in the US&nbsp;Open semi-final in New York on Friday (September 10).

Djokovic moved within one win of reaching a men’s record 21 Grand Slam titles and avenged his loss to Zverev at the Tokyo Olympics in front of a roaring crowd inside Arthur Ashe Stadium, with Rod Laver sitting in the front row, 52 years after he achieved the feat, the last man to do so.

He will face Russian Daniil Medvedev in Sunday’s (September 12) final, after the world number two sent off 21-year-old Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime in his semi-final.

Djokovic handed the German his first break of the night with a double fault in the first set but otherwise showed no mercy, firing off 41 winners and a dozen aces across the entire match.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-open-im-going-to-try-to-leave-my-balls-on-court-to-beat-djokovic-says-medvedev-412341">US Open: 'I’m going to try to leave my balls on court to beat Djokovic', says Medvedev</a>

The third set was a matter of survival of the fittest. Djokovic had a 40-0 head start in the tenth game only to see Zverev fend off two break points through marathon rallies, including a 53-shot exchange, before he broke the German's serve for the set point.

Tied at two sets a piece, Djokovic won a 30-shot rally for the early break, but after fending off four break points saw Zverev convert in the seventh game. He broke Zverev's serve in the next game before hoisting his arms aloft to wild cheers from the crowd.

"Yeah, I mean it's a great win," said Djokovic in his news conference. "I'm proud of the fight that I delivered. Yeah, I probably could have played better in some moments but again, I have to be satisfied with delivering the best tennis I possibly could in the most important set, which was the fifth set."

Zverev was tipped to be the toughest test at the U.S. Open for the Serbian. Not only had he ended Djokovic's bid for a Golden Slam - the four majors and the Olympic gold in the same year - six weeks back, the German was also on a career-best 16-match winning streak before Friday's contest.

"One thing that was very good from him is how he served on breakpoints," Zverev added. "Most of the time I didn't have a chance. That was the big difference tonight.

"I feel like every time it was an important moment, he came out with massive serves."

Currently in a three-way tie for most men's tennis major titles at 20 a piece with Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal, with whom he makes up tennis' "Big Three," Djokovic could also exceed his rivals in the sheer number of Grand Slam trophies if he wins on Sunday.

Both Federer and Nadal missed the year's final major due to injury.

"I know we want to talk about history. I know it's on the line. I'm aware of it. Of course, I'm aware of it.

"But I'm just trying to lock into what I know works for me. So I have my routines, I have my people. I isolate myself. I gather all the necessary energy for the next battle, only the next match, the next match.

"I said it on the court. I'm going to treat this match as it's my last one because it's arguably the most important one of my career maybe. Maybe not, I don't know. But of this year, for sure.

"I'll be giving it all I've possibly got in the tank to win this match."

While tennis fans the world over enjoy endless debate over who of tennis' "Big Three" can truly lay claim to the title "Greatest of All Time," for Zverev, the matter was already settled.

"If you look at the stats, if you look at the pure game of tennis, he's the greatest of all time," said Zverev. "Nobody is there with him, because most weeks world No. 1, most Masters 1000s titles, most likely going to be the most Grand Slams at the end of the day.

"And he has the chance of winning all four in the same year. How do you compete with that?"

World number one Novak Djokovic is a match away from one of the highest achievements across sports, with a calendar Grand Slam on the line after he overcame German Alexander Zverev 4-6, 6-2, 6-4, 4-6, 6-2 in the US Open semi-final in New York on Friday (September 10).

World number one Novak Djokovic is a match away from one of the highest achievements across sports, with a calendar Grand Slam on the line after he overcame German Alexander Zverev 4-6, 6-2, 6-4, 4-6, 6-2 in the US Open semi-final in New York on Friday (September 10). Djokovic moved within one win of reaching a men’s record 21 Grand Slam titles and avenged his loss to Zverev at the Tokyo Olympics in front of a roaring crowd inside Arthur Ashe Stadium, with Rod Laver sitting in the front row, 52 years after he achieved the feat, the last man to do so. He will face Russian Daniil Medvedev in Sunday’s (September 12) final, after the world number two sent off 21-year-old Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime in his semi-final. Djokovic handed the German his first break of the night with a double fault in the first set but otherwise showed no mercy, firing off 41 winners and a dozen aces across the entire match. ALSO READ | US Open: 'I’m going to try to leave my balls on court to beat Djokovic', says Medvedev The third set was a matter of survival of the fittest. Djokovic had a 40-0 head start in the tenth game only to see Zverev fend off two break points through marathon rallies, including a 53-shot exchange, before he broke the German's serve for the set point. Tied at two sets a piece, Djokovic won a 30-shot rally for the early break, but after fending off four break points saw Zverev convert in the seventh game. He broke Zverev's serve in the next game before hoisting his arms aloft to wild cheers from the crowd. "Yeah, I mean it's a great win," said Djokovic in his news conference. "I'm proud of the fight that I delivered. Yeah, I probably could have played better in some moments but again, I have to be satisfied with delivering the best tennis I possibly could in the most important set, which was the fifth set." Zverev was tipped to be the toughest test at the U.S. Open for the Serbian. Not only had he ended Djokovic's bid for a Golden Slam - the four majors and the Olympic gold in the same year - six weeks back, the German was also on a career-best 16-match winning streak before Friday's contest. "One thing that was very good from him is how he served on breakpoints," Zverev added. "Most of the time I didn't have a chance. That was the big difference tonight. "I feel like every time it was an important moment, he came out with massive serves." Currently in a three-way tie for most men's tennis major titles at 20 a piece with Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal, with whom he makes up tennis' "Big Three," Djokovic could also exceed his rivals in the sheer number of Grand Slam trophies if he wins on Sunday. Both Federer and Nadal missed the year's final major due to injury. "I know we want to talk about history. I know it's on the line. I'm aware of it. Of course, I'm aware of it. "But I'm just trying to lock into what I know works for me. So I have my routines, I have my people. I isolate myself. I gather all the necessary energy for the next battle, only the next match, the next match. "I said it on the court. I'm going to treat this match as it's my last one because it's arguably the most important one of my career maybe. Maybe not, I don't know. But of this year, for sure. "I'll be giving it all I've possibly got in the tank to win this match." While tennis fans the world over enjoy endless debate over who of tennis' "Big Three" can truly lay claim to the title "Greatest of All Time," for Zverev, the matter was already settled. "If you look at the stats, if you look at the pure game of tennis, he's the greatest of all time," said Zverev. "Nobody is there with him, because most weeks world No. 1, most Masters 1000s titles, most likely going to be the most Grand Slams at the end of the day. "And he has the chance of winning all four in the same year. How do you compete with that?"

US Open: 'I'll be giving it all', says Novak Djokovic on brink of tennis history

The US&nbsp;Open is on track for a record number of five-set matches in the men's draw and American Frances Tiafoe says Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal have a lot to do with that -- even though they are not even playing at Flushing Meadows this year.

World number one Novak Djokovic is the sole representative of the 'Big Three' of men's tennis, with Federer and Nadal ruled out due to injury.

With 11 matches still to go in the men's draw, this year's tournament has already seen 33 matches reach a fifth set, the most at the hardcourt major since 2004 when 34 matches went to five.

Tiafoe, who lost to Felix Auger-Aliassime on Sunday, said players saw the absence of Federer and Nadal as an opportunity to go deep into the tournament.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-open-fearless-leylah-fernandez-knocks-out-another-champion-to-reach-quarter-finals-410995">US Open: Fearless Leylah Fernandez knocks out another champion to reach quarter-finals</a>

"I definitely think guys are trying extra hard, because there is no Roger, Rafa," the 23-year-old American told reporters.

"I see guys foaming in the mouth, pretty funny to watch, I'm in the locker room cracking up.

"You have (Andreas) Seppi, like 37, playing 15-13 in the fifth (set tiebreaker). What's that about? Crazy.

"His 19th US&nbsp;Open, he's putting his heart on the line. He's probably not doing that if he plays Rafa the second round, probably, like, 'I'm done'.

"It's unreal."

This year's tournament is already tied with the 1980 and 1983 editions with seven fifth-set tiebreakers, the most since the US Open started using tiebreaks in 1970.

As many as 10 players have come back to win after losing the first two sets, also tied for the most with the 1974 and 2012 tournaments.

"Coming in this US&nbsp;Open we knew it was going to be intense. We knew there was going to be lots at stake," said Auger-Aliassime.

"On the one hand we have Novak trying to achieve history and we have guys that now have multiple Grand Slam finals ... all these guys that are really hungry, and myself, to be in the big stage and to win these type of tournaments."

The US Open is on track for a record number of five-set matches in the men's draw and American Frances Tiafoe says Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal have a lot to do with that -- even though they are not even playing at Flushing Meadows this year.

The US Open is on track for a record number of five-set matches in the men's draw and American Frances Tiafoe says Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal have a lot to do with that -- even though they are not even playing at Flushing Meadows this year. World number one Novak Djokovic is the sole representative of the 'Big Three' of men's tennis, with Federer and Nadal ruled out due to injury. With 11 matches still to go in the men's draw, this year's tournament has already seen 33 matches reach a fifth set, the most at the hardcourt major since 2004 when 34 matches went to five. Tiafoe, who lost to Felix Auger-Aliassime on Sunday, said players saw the absence of Federer and Nadal as an opportunity to go deep into the tournament. ALSO READ | US Open: Fearless Leylah Fernandez knocks out another champion to reach quarter-finals "I definitely think guys are trying extra hard, because there is no Roger, Rafa," the 23-year-old American told reporters. "I see guys foaming in the mouth, pretty funny to watch, I'm in the locker room cracking up. "You have (Andreas) Seppi, like 37, playing 15-13 in the fifth (set tiebreaker). What's that about? Crazy. "His 19th US Open, he's putting his heart on the line. He's probably not doing that if he plays Rafa the second round, probably, like, 'I'm done'. "It's unreal." This year's tournament is already tied with the 1980 and 1983 editions with seven fifth-set tiebreakers, the most since the US Open started using tiebreaks in 1970. As many as 10 players have come back to win after losing the first two sets, also tied for the most with the 1974 and 2012 tournaments. "Coming in this US Open we knew it was going to be intense. We knew there was going to be lots at stake," said Auger-Aliassime. "On the one hand we have Novak trying to achieve history and we have guys that now have multiple Grand Slam finals ... all these guys that are really hungry, and myself, to be in the big stage and to win these type of tournaments."

Absence of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal extra motivation at US Open, says Frances Tiafoe

Leylah Fernandez has had a great start to her career and the teenager has a big future ahead of her, former champion Angelique Kerber said on Sunday after losing 4-6 7-6(5) 6-2 to the Canadian&nbsp;at the U.S Open.

Fernandez, who turns 19 on Monday, knocked out defending champion Naomi Osaka in the third round and then reached a Grand Slam quarter-final for the first time with her win over the German.

"If she plays like this, consistently plays the whole year, the next tournaments like this, the next rounds, I think she has a great future," Kerber told reporters.

"She has a lot of power in her forehand and she's going for her winners. I think she's always also enjoying her tennis out there, it was a tough match. I think she can go really far in the next few years."

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-open-fearless-leylah-fernandez-knocks-out-another-champion-to-reach-quarter-finals-410995">US Open: Fearless Leylah Fernandez knocks out another champion to reach quarter-finals</a>

Kerber, who won the 2016 title at Flushing Meadows, said Fernandez's tactics reminded her of herself, especially her approach on serve and the next ball.

"I have been through a long career with a lot of up-and-downs," the 33-year-old added. "It's just experience you have to go through.

"Of course when you reach your first quarter-finals in a Grand Slam, it's always a lot of emotions. She had nothing to lose today and I think she's enjoying her tennis ... it's just a start of a great career."

Fernandez faces fifth seed Elina Svitolina in the quarter-finals.

Leylah Fernandez has had a great start to her career and the teenager has a big future ahead of her, former champion Angelique Kerber said on Sunday after losing 4-6 7-6(5) 6-2 to the Canadian at the U.

Leylah Fernandez has had a great start to her career and the teenager has a big future ahead of her, former champion Angelique Kerber said on Sunday after losing 4-6 7-6(5) 6-2 to the Canadian at the U.S Open. Fernandez, who turns 19 on Monday, knocked out defending champion Naomi Osaka in the third round and then reached a Grand Slam quarter-final for the first time with her win over the German. "If she plays like this, consistently plays the whole year, the next tournaments like this, the next rounds, I think she has a great future," Kerber told reporters. "She has a lot of power in her forehand and she's going for her winners. I think she's always also enjoying her tennis out there, it was a tough match. I think she can go really far in the next few years." ALSO READ | US Open: Fearless Leylah Fernandez knocks out another champion to reach quarter-finals Kerber, who won the 2016 title at Flushing Meadows, said Fernandez's tactics reminded her of herself, especially her approach on serve and the next ball. "I have been through a long career with a lot of up-and-downs," the 33-year-old added. "It's just experience you have to go through. "Of course when you reach your first quarter-finals in a Grand Slam, it's always a lot of emotions. She had nothing to lose today and I think she's enjoying her tennis ... it's just a start of a great career." Fernandez faces fifth seed Elina Svitolina in the quarter-finals.

Young Leylah Fernandez has a 'great future', says Angelique Kerber after US Open loss

American Sloane Stephens received a torrent of angry messages on social media, including racist and sexist abuse, following her third round loss to Angelique Kerber at the US Open, the tournament's 2017 champion said on Saturday.

Stephens, who is Black, said she got over 2,000 messages of abuse after Friday's 5-7 6-2 6-3 defeat.

"It's so hard to read messages like these, but I'll post a few so you guys can see what it's like after a loss," she wrote in an Instagram story.

What followed was a series of racist and sexist messages aimed at the 28-year-old Stephens.

"This type of hate is so exhausting and never ending," she said.

"This isn't talked about enough, but it really freaking sucks... I'm happy to have people in my corner who support me. I'm choosing positive vibes over negative ones.

"I choose to show you guys happiness on here, but it's not always smiles and roses."

Stephens, who has been ranked as high as world number three, then posted supportive messages she received from her team after the loss, the people she called "the only ones who matter."

"Tough one yesterday but let me say I really like the way Sloane is progressing and where we are heading to," one message said.

"Feel super confident about the next steps. Let's get ready to win Indian Wells and finish the year strong and start preparing to win majors and come back to the top 10."

The WTA did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

American Sloane Stephens received a torrent of angry messages on social media, including racist and sexist abuse, following her third round loss to Angelique Kerber at the US Open, the tournament's 2017 champion said on Saturday.

American Sloane Stephens received a torrent of angry messages on social media, including racist and sexist abuse, following her third round loss to Angelique Kerber at the US Open, the tournament's 2017 champion said on Saturday. Stephens, who is Black, said she got over 2,000 messages of abuse after Friday's 5-7 6-2 6-3 defeat. "It's so hard to read messages like these, but I'll post a few so you guys can see what it's like after a loss," she wrote in an Instagram story. What followed was a series of racist and sexist messages aimed at the 28-year-old Stephens. "This type of hate is so exhausting and never ending," she said. "This isn't talked about enough, but it really freaking sucks... I'm happy to have people in my corner who support me. I'm choosing positive vibes over negative ones. "I choose to show you guys happiness on here, but it's not always smiles and roses." Stephens, who has been ranked as high as world number three, then posted supportive messages she received from her team after the loss, the people she called "the only ones who matter." "Tough one yesterday but let me say I really like the way Sloane is progressing and where we are heading to," one message said. "Feel super confident about the next steps. Let's get ready to win Indian Wells and finish the year strong and start preparing to win majors and come back to the top 10." The WTA did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Sloane Stephens suffers abuse on social media after US Open loss

American Shelby Rogers staged a comeback for the ages shocking world number one Ash Barty 6-2 1-6 7-6(5) on Saturday in the third round of the U.S. Open.

The 43rd-ranked Rogers recovered from a 5-2 deficit in the third set to push the affair into a tiebreak, securing the biggest upset of the tournament thus far in front of an electric New York crowd inside Arthur Ashe Stadium.

It was the second major upset of the women's tournament at Flushing Meadows, after 18-year-old Leylah Fernandez defeated four-time Grand Slam winner Naomi Osaka on Friday.

Barty appeared to take the loss in stride, telling reporters afterwards:

"I played a pretty awful first set in the sense where I was erratic," she said. "I found a way back into the match, found a way to turn the match back in my favour, to have two opportunities to serve it out and be within a couple of points, it's disappointing not to get it done.

"I'll sleep well tonight knowing I gave everything I could."

She said it wouldn't take long to move on, however, after a stellar 2021 in which she won five titles - including Wimbledon, Miami and Cincinnati - after taking an 11-month break from the tour last year as the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe.

She told reporters she planned to compete at Indian Wells next month, despite having been on the road for more than five months.

"I'm proud of myself and proud of my team for all the efforts we've put in, in the last six months," she said. "It's been pretty incredible. I don't think we could have asked for much more honestly. I wouldn't change a thing."

American Shelby Rogers staged a comeback for the ages shocking world number one Ash Barty 6-2 1-6 7-6(5) on Saturday in the third round of the U.S. Open. The 43rd-ranked Rogers recovered from a 5-2 deficit in the third set to push the affair into a tiebreak, securing the biggest upset of the tournament thus far in front of an electric New York crowd inside Arthur Ashe Stadium.

American Shelby Rogers staged a comeback for the ages shocking world number one Ash Barty 6-2 1-6 7-6(5) on Saturday in the third round of the U.S. Open. The 43rd-ranked Rogers recovered from a 5-2 deficit in the third set to push the affair into a tiebreak, securing the biggest upset of the tournament thus far in front of an electric New York crowd inside Arthur Ashe Stadium. It was the second major upset of the women's tournament at Flushing Meadows, after 18-year-old Leylah Fernandez defeated four-time Grand Slam winner Naomi Osaka on Friday. Barty appeared to take the loss in stride, telling reporters afterwards: "I played a pretty awful first set in the sense where I was erratic," she said. "I found a way back into the match, found a way to turn the match back in my favour, to have two opportunities to serve it out and be within a couple of points, it's disappointing not to get it done. "I'll sleep well tonight knowing I gave everything I could." She said it wouldn't take long to move on, however, after a stellar 2021 in which she won five titles - including Wimbledon, Miami and Cincinnati - after taking an 11-month break from the tour last year as the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe. She told reporters she planned to compete at Indian Wells next month, despite having been on the road for more than five months. "I'm proud of myself and proud of my team for all the efforts we've put in, in the last six months," she said. "It's been pretty incredible. I don't think we could have asked for much more honestly. I wouldn't change a thing."

'I gave everything I could': Ashleigh Barty after shock exit from US Open

Fourth seed Alexander Zverev advanced to the fourth round of the US&nbsp;Open on Saturday (September 4), when Jack Sock retired with a thigh injury trailing 3-6 6-2 6-3 2-1.

Zverev had looked to be headed for a long night against the big-hitting Sock, who convincingly won the opening set, but instead outlasted the American who refused to wave the white flag until broken in the fourth knowing there was no way back.

The Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd had barely had a chance to catch their breath after Shelby Rogers's shock upset of world number one Ash Barty as Sock got the party started again taking the opening set from a flat-footed Zverev with a barrage of big serves and thundering forehands.

But the atmosphere quickly turned serious after Zverev held serve to open the second set and Sock called for the trainer who immediately went to work on his right thigh and groin.

With Sock hobbling Zverev stepped up his attack rolling through the second set with little resistance.

Sock, however, would not quit, continuing to the third and grimly holding the German at bay until he finally broke through with a break to get in front 5-3.

Determined to finish the contest, Sock pressed on into the fourth but after being broken 2-1 he lay on the court clutching at his thigh, then got to his feet and called it a match.

"If Jack had continued playing the way he was playing in the first set, I would've been done in an hour and a half, I would've planned my holidays, would've had a good time next week somewhere in the South of France," said Zverev.

"I think everybody saw that Jack was really struggling physically and ... you have to keep your focus.

"I mean at the end of the day we're all competitors, and we have to bring the match to the end."

"I know how he feels a little bit because I have a brother as well who was struggling with injuries throughout his whole career and once he's playing that level of tennis to get injured again is a very tough feeling.

"So to be honest, I feel very sorry for him. I hope it's nothing serious, and I hope he'll be back on Tour very soon."

South African Lloyd Harris reached the fourth round of a Grand Slam for the first time on Saturday with a 6-4 6-4 6-4 victory over Canadian world number 10 Denis Shapovalov at the U.S. Open.

The 22-year-old Shapovalov, seeded seventh at the hard court major this year, came into Saturday's match at the Louis Armstrong Stadium having lost his only previous meeting against Harris in March.

Since that Dubai meeting, the South African, 24, has made rapid strides in his career, defeating 20-time Grand Slam champion Rafa Nadal in Washington last month and has climbed up to a career-best ranking of 46th.

On Saturday, Harris took his chances against an error-prone Shapovalov, the quarter-finalist last year at Flushing Meadows, breaking the left-hander's serve five times to wrap up the match in two hours and 12 minutes and make the second week of a Grand Slam for the first time.

Fourth seed Alexander Zverev advanced to the fourth round of the US Open on Saturday (September 4), when Jack Sock retired with a thigh injury trailing 3-6 6-2 6-3 2-1.

Fourth seed Alexander Zverev advanced to the fourth round of the US Open on Saturday (September 4), when Jack Sock retired with a thigh injury trailing 3-6 6-2 6-3 2-1. Zverev had looked to be headed for a long night against the big-hitting Sock, who convincingly won the opening set, but instead outlasted the American who refused to wave the white flag until broken in the fourth knowing there was no way back. The Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd had barely had a chance to catch their breath after Shelby Rogers's shock upset of world number one Ash Barty as Sock got the party started again taking the opening set from a flat-footed Zverev with a barrage of big serves and thundering forehands. But the atmosphere quickly turned serious after Zverev held serve to open the second set and Sock called for the trainer who immediately went to work on his right thigh and groin. With Sock hobbling Zverev stepped up his attack rolling through the second set with little resistance. Sock, however, would not quit, continuing to the third and grimly holding the German at bay until he finally broke through with a break to get in front 5-3. Determined to finish the contest, Sock pressed on into the fourth but after being broken 2-1 he lay on the court clutching at his thigh, then got to his feet and called it a match. "If Jack had continued playing the way he was playing in the first set, I would've been done in an hour and a half, I would've planned my holidays, would've had a good time next week somewhere in the South of France," said Zverev. "I think everybody saw that Jack was really struggling physically and ... you have to keep your focus. "I mean at the end of the day we're all competitors, and we have to bring the match to the end." "I know how he feels a little bit because I have a brother as well who was struggling with injuries throughout his whole career and once he's playing that level of tennis to get injured again is a very tough feeling. "So to be honest, I feel very sorry for him. I hope it's nothing serious, and I hope he'll be back on Tour very soon." South African Lloyd Harris reached the fourth round of a Grand Slam for the first time on Saturday with a 6-4 6-4 6-4 victory over Canadian world number 10 Denis Shapovalov at the U.S. Open. The 22-year-old Shapovalov, seeded seventh at the hard court major this year, came into Saturday's match at the Louis Armstrong Stadium having lost his only previous meeting against Harris in March. Since that Dubai meeting, the South African, 24, has made rapid strides in his career, defeating 20-time Grand Slam champion Rafa Nadal in Washington last month and has climbed up to a career-best ranking of 46th. On Saturday, Harris took his chances against an error-prone Shapovalov, the quarter-finalist last year at Flushing Meadows, breaking the left-hander's serve five times to wrap up the match in two hours and 12 minutes and make the second week of a Grand Slam for the first time.

US Open: Alexander Zverev through after Jack Sock retires with injury

World number three Stefanos Tsitsipas was defiant as his Grand Slam hopes evaporated on Friday, saying "everyone suddenly is against me" and insisting he was innocent of wrongdoing in a bitter saga over bathroom breaks at the US Open.

The Greek unwillingly assumed the role of tournament villain at Flushing Meadows when Briton Andy Murray accused him of cheating over a lengthy trip to the bathroom at a critical point in their first-round match.

"I feel it influenced the outcome of the match," Murray said of the nearly eight-minute break, although Tsitsipas insisted he had not broken any rules.

He again retreated to the locker room for more than seven minutes two days later after opponent Adrian Mannarino won a third-set tiebreak in the second round.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/naomi-osaka-suffers-shock-loss-in-us-open-plans-to-take-break-from-the-sport-410602">Naomi Osaka suffers shock loss in US Open, plans to take break from the sport</a>

Tsitsipas won the affair in four sets but lost what affection he had left from the crowd, as spectators jeered him over the move.

The debate over toilet breaks finally closed out in dramatic fashion as 18-year-old Carlos Alcaraz handed Tsitsipas a shock defeat in five sets and the rowdy New York crowd again booed him for stepping into the locker room at a crucial point in the match.

"I took my toilet break as a normal athlete," Tsitsipas said afterward, adding that he had only changed from wet clothes to dry clothes.

"Might have taken a bit longer than other athletes. But if there is a rule that says there's a specific amount of time that you are allowed to take, then I would probably try and follow that protocol, that rule."

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Mannarino was among those to suggest that while Tsitsipas hadn't necessarily violated protocol with his behavior, "the rule is wrong."

"Review of rules around toilet breaks, in addition to medical time outs, has been an area of focus in recent months. This remains work in progress," ATP spokesperson said this week.

Former champion Sloane Stephens, who lost in the third round on Friday, also called for a rule change, saying the extended bathroom breaks were a form of "gamesmanship."

The WTA said that it was "always open to conversation and evolving rules if changes are necessary," noting that in 2019 it reduced the number of breaks a player can take during its matches from two to one.

Tsitsipas ended the English-language portion of this press conference on Friday by pointing the finger at other players, saying he had not complained in the past when competitors took their time in between first and second serves.

"There is not a rule for that that says how much time you have to take between two serves. But I respected it," he said. "These players that everyone knows they're taking so much time but no one says anything.

"I don't know why everyone suddenly is against me."

World number three Stefanos Tsitsipas was defiant as his Grand Slam hopes evaporated on Friday, saying "everyone suddenly is against me" and insisting he was innocent of wrongdoing in a bitter saga over bathroom breaks at the US Open.

World number three Stefanos Tsitsipas was defiant as his Grand Slam hopes evaporated on Friday, saying "everyone suddenly is against me" and insisting he was innocent of wrongdoing in a bitter saga over bathroom breaks at the US Open. The Greek unwillingly assumed the role of tournament villain at Flushing Meadows when Briton Andy Murray accused him of cheating over a lengthy trip to the bathroom at a critical point in their first-round match. "I feel it influenced the outcome of the match," Murray said of the nearly eight-minute break, although Tsitsipas insisted he had not broken any rules. He again retreated to the locker room for more than seven minutes two days later after opponent Adrian Mannarino won a third-set tiebreak in the second round. ALSO READ | Naomi Osaka suffers shock loss in US Open, plans to take break from the sport Tsitsipas won the affair in four sets but lost what affection he had left from the crowd, as spectators jeered him over the move. The debate over toilet breaks finally closed out in dramatic fashion as 18-year-old Carlos Alcaraz handed Tsitsipas a shock defeat in five sets and the rowdy New York crowd again booed him for stepping into the locker room at a crucial point in the match. "I took my toilet break as a normal athlete," Tsitsipas said afterward, adding that he had only changed from wet clothes to dry clothes. "Might have taken a bit longer than other athletes. But if there is a rule that says there's a specific amount of time that you are allowed to take, then I would probably try and follow that protocol, that rule." CARLOS. ALCARAZ. pic.twitter.com/5L65ZTIRZs — US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 3, 2021 × Men's tennis has a bright future 🤝@alcarazcarlos03 | @steftsitsipas | #USOpen pic.twitter.com/FX5Jo6nANO — US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 3, 2021 × Mannarino was among those to suggest that while Tsitsipas hadn't necessarily violated protocol with his behavior, "the rule is wrong." "Review of rules around toilet breaks, in addition to medical time outs, has been an area of focus in recent months. This remains work in progress," ATP spokesperson said this week. Former champion Sloane Stephens, who lost in the third round on Friday, also called for a rule change, saying the extended bathroom breaks were a form of "gamesmanship." The WTA said that it was "always open to conversation and evolving rules if changes are necessary," noting that in 2019 it reduced the number of breaks a player can take during its matches from two to one. Tsitsipas ended the English-language portion of this press conference on Friday by pointing the finger at other players, saying he had not complained in the past when competitors took their time in between first and second serves. "There is not a rule for that that says how much time you have to take between two serves. But I respected it," he said. "These players that everyone knows they're taking so much time but no one says anything. "I don't know why everyone suddenly is against me."

'Everyone suddenly is against me': Stefanos Tsitsipas defiant on US Open exit

Retired athletes voiced their support for four-time Grand Slam winner Naomi Osaka on Saturday after she said she would take a break from tennis having lost her enthusiasm for competition.

The world number three suffered a stunning defeat in the third round of the U.S. Open on Friday before tearfully telling reporters she planned to take an indefinite break from the sport.

"I feel like for me recently, like, when I win I don't feel happy. I feel more like a relief," said Osaka, months after publicly disclosing that she had suffered from depression.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/everyone-suddenly-is-against-me-stefanos-tsitsipas-defiant-on-us-open-exit-410632">'Everyone suddenly is against me': Stefanos Tsitsipas defiant on US Open exit</a>

Retired American tennis pro James Blake applauded her decision.

"Please do what is best for you @naomiosaka," he wrote on Twitter Saturday. "We want to see your extraordinary tennis again, but more importantly, we want to see you happy."

Six-time Grand Slam winner Boris Becker responded to Blake in a quote retweet: "That's right."

The 23-year-old has ushered in a new conversation around mental health in professional sport after she dropped out of the French Open amid a public row over mandatory press conferences at the Grand Slam, saying they took too great a toll on her mental wellbeing.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/naomi-osaka-suffers-shock-loss-in-us-open-plans-to-take-break-from-the-sport-410602">Naomi Osaka suffers shock loss in US Open, plans to take break from the sport</a>

Osaka's influence extends far beyond the court, as she brought the Black Lives Matter protest to tennis' international platform a year ago, becoming a leading figure for athlete advocacy in the process.

"Good decision. Young, trying to figure out life, how to win consistently, and as a huge celebrity athlete is hard! Trying to also be a change maker too. Exponentially harder!" four-time Olympic gold medal-winning sprinter Michael Johnson wrote on Twitter.

"If there was ever a need for an athlete to step away, this is it."

Retired athletes voiced their support for four-time Grand Slam winner Naomi Osaka on Saturday after she said she would take a break from tennis having lost her enthusiasm for competition.

Retired athletes voiced their support for four-time Grand Slam winner Naomi Osaka on Saturday after she said she would take a break from tennis having lost her enthusiasm for competition. The world number three suffered a stunning defeat in the third round of the U.S. Open on Friday before tearfully telling reporters she planned to take an indefinite break from the sport. "I feel like for me recently, like, when I win I don't feel happy. I feel more like a relief," said Osaka, months after publicly disclosing that she had suffered from depression. ALSO READ | 'Everyone suddenly is against me': Stefanos Tsitsipas defiant on US Open exit Retired American tennis pro James Blake applauded her decision. "Please do what is best for you @naomiosaka," he wrote on Twitter Saturday. "We want to see your extraordinary tennis again, but more importantly, we want to see you happy." Six-time Grand Slam winner Boris Becker responded to Blake in a quote retweet: "That's right." The 23-year-old has ushered in a new conversation around mental health in professional sport after she dropped out of the French Open amid a public row over mandatory press conferences at the Grand Slam, saying they took too great a toll on her mental wellbeing. ALSO READ | Naomi Osaka suffers shock loss in US Open, plans to take break from the sport Osaka's influence extends far beyond the court, as she brought the Black Lives Matter protest to tennis' international platform a year ago, becoming a leading figure for athlete advocacy in the process. "Good decision. Young, trying to figure out life, how to win consistently, and as a huge celebrity athlete is hard! Trying to also be a change maker too. Exponentially harder!" four-time Olympic gold medal-winning sprinter Michael Johnson wrote on Twitter. "If there was ever a need for an athlete to step away, this is it."

Naomi Osaka earns support after announcing break from sport

Fans attending the US&nbsp;Open on Monday confronted long lines at the main gate's security checkpoint, forcing some ticket holders to wait in the heat for up to two hours to gain entry.

The United States Tennis Association, which oversees the event, acknowledged the delays but said the last-minute decision to impose a vaccine requirement for fans was not to blame.

The tennis major, which took place amid empty stands last year due to the coronavirus pandemic, commenced on Monday with thousands of visitors again thronging the grounds in New York City's Queens borough.

Citing concerns about the highly contagious Delta variant of the virus, Mayor Bill de Blasio's office said on Friday that all fans entering Arthur Ashe Stadium would have to show proof of at least one vaccine shot. Tennis officials then extended the mandate to anyone attending the tournament.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/naomi-osaka-the-entertainer-kicks-off-us-open-title-defence-with-straight-sets-win-409577">Naomi Osaka the 'entertainer' kicks off US Open title defence with straight sets win</a>

Outside the main entrance at midday, staff members struggled to direct a sea of people awaiting admission.

"I've been coming since 1963, and this is my last time ever," Howard Lefkin, 71, said, explaining that he had spent two hours trying to get into the grounds. "This is hideous."

A handful of fans complained to police officers or shouted at staff, vowing to seek refunds. Others headed around the stadium in search of shorter lines.

"If I knew it would be two hours in line, I would have stayed home," said Michael Berman, a 55-year-old attorney from Fair Lawn, New Jersey.

A USTA spokesman, Chris Widmaier, said in a statement that the organization was seeking ways to speed up the process.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-open-forgotten-man-andy-murray-gives-stefanos-tsitsipas-match-to-remember-before-bowing-out-in-five-set-thriller-409552">US Open: Forgotten man Andy Murray gives Stefanos Tsitsipas match to remember before bowing out in five-set thriller</a>

Widmaier cited several factors for the delays, including more later-arriving fans than usual and an "inordinate" number of bags that must be searched by hand.

"The process to check proof of vaccination seems to be working smoothly and is not a major contributor hampering entrance to the site," he said.

Numerous fans, however, said the line for people with bags actually appeared to be moving much faster than the one for those without. Some said they were concerned that the tightly packed crowd could facilitate COVID-19 spread, even among vaccinated individuals.

"The true irony is this is all to keep people safe: they're checking vaccine cards, but they're packing everyone in," said Steve Marder, 42, who has attended the Open more than a dozen times.

That said, several fans said they appreciated that the requirement added an extra layer of safety. And despite the long wait for some, plenty of tennis aficionados voiced joy at returning to a quintessential New York event.

"When we got our tickets, I just about cried just thinking about being back," said Sandra Unger, who traveled from Minneapolis to New York to attend the Open with her brother, Craig. "But I feel outside, I feel safe and the vaccine thing was huge to feel like it's okay to be here."

Stefanie Ebo, 25, attended as a kid and later worked at the Open as a players' assistant for a few years.

"Honestly, for me growing up, this was the start of the school year – but also an end-of-summer treat," she said. "I feel like people are even more excited than usual."

Fans attending the US Open on Monday confronted long lines at the main gate's security checkpoint, forcing some ticket holders to wait in the heat for up to two hours to gain entry.

Fans attending the US Open on Monday confronted long lines at the main gate's security checkpoint, forcing some ticket holders to wait in the heat for up to two hours to gain entry. The United States Tennis Association, which oversees the event, acknowledged the delays but said the last-minute decision to impose a vaccine requirement for fans was not to blame. The tennis major, which took place amid empty stands last year due to the coronavirus pandemic, commenced on Monday with thousands of visitors again thronging the grounds in New York City's Queens borough. Citing concerns about the highly contagious Delta variant of the virus, Mayor Bill de Blasio's office said on Friday that all fans entering Arthur Ashe Stadium would have to show proof of at least one vaccine shot. Tennis officials then extended the mandate to anyone attending the tournament. ALSO READ | Naomi Osaka the 'entertainer' kicks off US Open title defence with straight sets win Outside the main entrance at midday, staff members struggled to direct a sea of people awaiting admission. "I've been coming since 1963, and this is my last time ever," Howard Lefkin, 71, said, explaining that he had spent two hours trying to get into the grounds. "This is hideous." A handful of fans complained to police officers or shouted at staff, vowing to seek refunds. Others headed around the stadium in search of shorter lines. "If I knew it would be two hours in line, I would have stayed home," said Michael Berman, a 55-year-old attorney from Fair Lawn, New Jersey. A USTA spokesman, Chris Widmaier, said in a statement that the organization was seeking ways to speed up the process. ALSO READ | US Open: Forgotten man Andy Murray gives Stefanos Tsitsipas match to remember before bowing out in five-set thriller Widmaier cited several factors for the delays, including more later-arriving fans than usual and an "inordinate" number of bags that must be searched by hand. "The process to check proof of vaccination seems to be working smoothly and is not a major contributor hampering entrance to the site," he said. Numerous fans, however, said the line for people with bags actually appeared to be moving much faster than the one for those without. Some said they were concerned that the tightly packed crowd could facilitate COVID-19 spread, even among vaccinated individuals. "The true irony is this is all to keep people safe: they're checking vaccine cards, but they're packing everyone in," said Steve Marder, 42, who has attended the Open more than a dozen times. That said, several fans said they appreciated that the requirement added an extra layer of safety. And despite the long wait for some, plenty of tennis aficionados voiced joy at returning to a quintessential New York event. "When we got our tickets, I just about cried just thinking about being back," said Sandra Unger, who traveled from Minneapolis to New York to attend the Open with her brother, Craig. "But I feel outside, I feel safe and the vaccine thing was huge to feel like it's okay to be here." Stefanie Ebo, 25, attended as a kid and later worked at the Open as a players' assistant for a few years. "Honestly, for me growing up, this was the start of the school year – but also an end-of-summer treat," she said. "I feel like people are even more excited than usual."

After year away, excited fans return to US Open but confront long lines

World number four Karolina Pliskova fired off eight aces to defeat American wild card Caty McNally 6-3 6-4 in the first round of the U.S. Open on Tuesday as she bids for an elusive maiden major.

Pliskova, the 2016 runner-up, built up a 5-1 lead in the first set before her 19-year-old opponent settled her nerves, and hit 10 winners in the set compared to two from McNally, before breaking the American's serve twice early in the second.

McNally, who made it to the third round at Flushing Meadows a year ago, bounced back to level the score at 3-3, with the crowd in Louis Armstrong Stadium cheering her on, but could not match Pliskova's power as the Czech closed out the match with a pair of aces.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-lost-respect-for-him-andy-murray-blasts-stefanos-tsitsipas-for-bathroom-breaks-says-nonsense-delaying-tactics-409635">'I lost respect for him': Andy Murray blasts Stefanos Tsitsipas for bathroom breaks, says 'nonsense' delaying tactics</a>

"I started really well then lost my focus a little bit at the end of the first set," said Pliskova, who lost to world number one Ash Barty in the Wimbledon final earlier this year.

"She played (at) a really good level," she added. "She has a good future."

Pliskova said she was pleased to keep the match to two sets as several top contenders, including twice champion Naomi Osaka and world number one Barty, stand between her and a Grand Slam title.

She faces either Zarina Diyas of Kazakhstan or American Amanda Anisimova in the second round.

World number four Karolina Pliskova fired off eight aces to defeat American wild card Caty McNally 6-3 6-4 in the first round of the U.S. Open on Tuesday as she bids for an elusive maiden major.

World number four Karolina Pliskova fired off eight aces to defeat American wild card Caty McNally 6-3 6-4 in the first round of the U.S. Open on Tuesday as she bids for an elusive maiden major. Pliskova, the 2016 runner-up, built up a 5-1 lead in the first set before her 19-year-old opponent settled her nerves, and hit 10 winners in the set compared to two from McNally, before breaking the American's serve twice early in the second. McNally, who made it to the third round at Flushing Meadows a year ago, bounced back to level the score at 3-3, with the crowd in Louis Armstrong Stadium cheering her on, but could not match Pliskova's power as the Czech closed out the match with a pair of aces. ALSO READ | 'I lost respect for him': Andy Murray blasts Stefanos Tsitsipas for bathroom breaks, says 'nonsense' delaying tactics "I started really well then lost my focus a little bit at the end of the first set," said Pliskova, who lost to world number one Ash Barty in the Wimbledon final earlier this year. "She played (at) a really good level," she added. "She has a good future." Pliskova said she was pleased to keep the match to two sets as several top contenders, including twice champion Naomi Osaka and world number one Barty, stand between her and a Grand Slam title. She faces either Zarina Diyas of Kazakhstan or American Amanda Anisimova in the second round.

Karolina Pliskova rolls into US Open second round in bid for maiden major

Greek third seed Stefanos Tsitsipas outlasted Andy Murray in Round 1, twice coming from behind to enter the next round after winning a five-set thriller 2-6, 7-6, 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 on Day 1 of the 2021 US Open.

Greek third seed Stefanos Tsitsipas outlasted Andy Murray in Round 1, twice coming from behind to enter the next round after winning a five-set thriller 2-6, 7-6, 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 on Day 1 of the 2021 US Open. However, more than the loss, 34-year-old Scotsman was angry over lengthy bathroom breaks taken by Tsitsipas that caused disruption as the former world number one said his adrenaline dropped after long delays. Murray, who barely greeted Tsitsipas at the net, went on to say that Tsitsipas is "great for the game" but he has "zero time for that stuff" and he "lost respect for him". During the media interaction after the match, the three-time Grand Slam winner Murray said, "I think he's great for the game. But I have zero time for that stuff at all and I lost respect for him." ALSO READ | Naomi Osaka the 'entertainer' kicks off US Open title defence with straight sets win That winning moment.@steftsitsipas battles past Andy Murray in five tough sets. pic.twitter.com/zpRX20bzSj — US Open Tennis (@usopen) August 30, 2021 × Our 2012 champion always gives everything he's got on the court. See you soon, @andy_murray pic.twitter.com/EbfyEDJwgg — US Open Tennis (@usopen) August 30, 2021 × Murray said, "It's not so much leaving the court. It's the amount of time. I spoke to my team before the match about it and said to expect that, prepare for it if things were not going his way." "You cannot stop the way that affects you physically. When you're playing a brutal match like that, stopping for seven, eight minutes, you do cool down." "You can prepare for it mentally as much as you like, but it's the fact that it does affect you physically when you take a break that long, well, multiple times during the match," he added. "Every single time it was before my serve as well. When he took the medical timeout (for his left leg), it was just after I had won the third set," he further said. ALSO READ | US Open: Forgotten man Andy Murray gives Stefanos Tsitsipas match to remember before bowing out in five-set thriller "It can't be coincidence that it's happening at those moments," Murray said. "I don't believe it was causing him any issue at all. He was fine, moving great I thought. "It's just disappointing because I feel it influenced the outcome of the match. "I'm not saying I necessarily win that match, for sure, but it had influence on what was happening after those breaks." Murray said the players council is talking about rule changes to "make it less easy for the rules to be exploited," and Tsitsipas took his timewasting too far. "I think it's nonsense," Murray said. "And he knows it, as well. "It's nonsense and they need to make a change because it's not good for the sport, it's not good for TV, it's not good for fans. I don't think it's a good look for the players either." Tsitsipas on Murray's remarks: Currently, there are no time limits on bathroom breaks and Tsitsipas said he had abided by regulations. "If there's something he has to tell me, we should speak the two of us to kind of understand what went wrong," Tsitsipas said. "I don't think I broke any rules. I played by the guidelines. "As far as I'm playing by the rules and sticking to what the ATP says is fair, then the rest is fine. I have nothing against him. Absolutely nothing," he added. A similar incident also happened when Alexander Zverev protested a lengthy bathroom break by Tsitsipas in a semi-final match two weeks ago at Cincinnati. (inputs from agencies)

'I lost respect for him': Andy Murray blasts Stefanos Tsitsipas for bathroom breaks, says 'nonsense' delaying tactics

Novak Djokovic hesitated to call the US&nbsp;Open a now-or-never moment, but the history-hunting Serb noted on Friday that an opportunity for a calendar year Grand Slam could be one of them.

The fact that only two male tennis players - Rod Laver and Don Budge - have ever achieved the feat underscores just how rare such moments are.

Throw in that a Djokovic calendar Slam - winning the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon and U.S. Open in the same year - would be crowned by a record-setting 21st major title and the stakes may be as high as they have ever been for a player at a single tennis event.

"I don't want to say it's now or never for me because I think I'm going to have more opportunities in my life to win slams. I don't know if I'm going to be having more opportunities to win calendar slams. That's why it's a very unique opportunity," Djokovic told reporters in New York.

"At the same time, I don't need to put any additional pressure to what I already have, which is pretty big from my own self and from of course people around me," Djokovic added.

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Spiderman or Gumby? 🤔<a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DjokerNole</a> is no stranger to nicknames... But which one is his favorite?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/HBuV9yau4v">pic.twitter.com/HBuV9yau4v</a>
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Djokovic has said several times that pressure is a privilege, and the world's top-ranked player can expect piles of it when play gets underway on Monday at Flushing Meadows.

Not since Laver in 1969 has a man won the four Grand Slam titles in the same year. With Big Three rivals Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal out with injuries, Djokovic is a favorite to join that exclusive club.

"Obviously I know how big of an opportunity this is in front of me here in New York, where historically I've played really well over the years. But I thrive under pressure, as well. I've done that many times in my career," Djokovic said.

"This is what you work for day in, day out, all your life, to put yourself in a unique position to win Grand Slams and to make history. I have this chance, and I'm going to try to use it," Djokovic added.

Without Federer and Nadal, Djokovic is aware that the spotlight will be intensely focused on him.

On the court instead of old rivals it is young guns Alexander Zverev, Daniil Medvedev and Stefanos Tsitsipas who the 34-year-old Djokovic believes stand between him and history.

"My participation here, without Rafa and Roger participating, I feel it," said Djokovic, who will be back in action for the first time since a disappointing showing at the Tokyo Olympics. "Regardless of Roger's and Rafa's absence, you still have tremendous quality tennis players that are probably right now on hot streak."

Djokovic added, "Zverev, Medvedev, Tsitsipas - those are the three top contenders I see for the title. Everyone wants to do well at the Grand Slam. Anything can really happen."

Novak Djokovic hesitated to call the US Open a now-or-never moment, but the history-hunting Serb noted on Friday that an opportunity for a calendar year Grand Slam could be one of them.

Novak Djokovic hesitated to call the US Open a now-or-never moment, but the history-hunting Serb noted on Friday that an opportunity for a calendar year Grand Slam could be one of them. The fact that only two male tennis players - Rod Laver and Don Budge - have ever achieved the feat underscores just how rare such moments are. Throw in that a Djokovic calendar Slam - winning the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon and U.S. Open in the same year - would be crowned by a record-setting 21st major title and the stakes may be as high as they have ever been for a player at a single tennis event. "I don't want to say it's now or never for me because I think I'm going to have more opportunities in my life to win slams. I don't know if I'm going to be having more opportunities to win calendar slams. That's why it's a very unique opportunity," Djokovic told reporters in New York. "At the same time, I don't need to put any additional pressure to what I already have, which is pretty big from my own self and from of course people around me," Djokovic added. Spiderman or Gumby? 🤔@DjokerNole is no stranger to nicknames... But which one is his favorite?#USOpen pic.twitter.com/HBuV9yau4v — US Open Tennis (@usopen) August 27, 2021 × Djokovic has said several times that pressure is a privilege, and the world's top-ranked player can expect piles of it when play gets underway on Monday at Flushing Meadows. Not since Laver in 1969 has a man won the four Grand Slam titles in the same year. With Big Three rivals Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal out with injuries, Djokovic is a favorite to join that exclusive club. "Obviously I know how big of an opportunity this is in front of me here in New York, where historically I've played really well over the years. But I thrive under pressure, as well. I've done that many times in my career," Djokovic said. "This is what you work for day in, day out, all your life, to put yourself in a unique position to win Grand Slams and to make history. I have this chance, and I'm going to try to use it," Djokovic added. Without Federer and Nadal, Djokovic is aware that the spotlight will be intensely focused on him. On the court instead of old rivals it is young guns Alexander Zverev, Daniil Medvedev and Stefanos Tsitsipas who the 34-year-old Djokovic believes stand between him and history. "My participation here, without Rafa and Roger participating, I feel it," said Djokovic, who will be back in action for the first time since a disappointing showing at the Tokyo Olympics. "Regardless of Roger's and Rafa's absence, you still have tremendous quality tennis players that are probably right now on hot streak." Djokovic added, "Zverev, Medvedev, Tsitsipas - those are the three top contenders I see for the title. Everyone wants to do well at the Grand Slam. Anything can really happen."

Novak Djokovic faces now-or-never moment at US Open

With his game in fine form and a slew of past champions sidelined with injuries, Daniil Medvedev said he is feeling confident as he prepares to try to win his first major title at the upcoming US&nbsp;Open.

The world number two, who fell to Rafa Nadal in an epic five set final at Flushing Meadows in 2019, is guaranteed not to suffer the same fate this year after the Spaniard said he would sit out to focus on healing a nagging foot injury.

In addition to Nadal, past champions Roger Federer, Stan Wawrinka, Dominic Thiem and Juan Martin Del Potro will also be missing in action in New York.

"I'm going to try to do my best. If I manage to keep the level I'm playing at right now, I have good chances to go far," Medvedev told reporters after crushing Pablo Carreno Busta to reach the semi-finals of the Western &amp; Southern Open on Friday.

But the big-serving Russian said he knows anything can happen on the sport's biggest stages.

"One day you might feel not so good," said Medvedev, who complained about the stifling heat at the Tokyo Olympics before falling in the quarter-finals.

"You're going to get an opponent who is going to play the best match of his life."

And although those other titans of the game are out of the picture, the most dangerous player in all of tennis, world number one Novak Djokovic, will be especially motivated.

The Serb heads to New York looking to complete a calendar Grand Slam and earn a record-breaking 21st men's Grand Slam title.

"Definitely Novak is going to be the highest contender," Medvedev said.

"He's winning almost all the Grand Slams right now. He won already 20. He has experience. He has a level. I'm not gonna lie.

"So he's the man under pressure, but I think he likes it. Some guys under pressure can crack. That's not Novak. So he's definitely the main contender," he said, noting that if they do meet it will be in the final since they will be on opposite sides of the draw.

"When I play good in New York, I can get good results, and of course, yeah, I want to win it," he said.

The U.S. Open runs from Aug. 30 to Sept. 12.

With his game in fine form and a slew of past champions sidelined with injuries, Daniil Medvedev said he is feeling confident as he prepares to try to win his first major title at the upcoming US Open.

With his game in fine form and a slew of past champions sidelined with injuries, Daniil Medvedev said he is feeling confident as he prepares to try to win his first major title at the upcoming US Open. The world number two, who fell to Rafa Nadal in an epic five set final at Flushing Meadows in 2019, is guaranteed not to suffer the same fate this year after the Spaniard said he would sit out to focus on healing a nagging foot injury. In addition to Nadal, past champions Roger Federer, Stan Wawrinka, Dominic Thiem and Juan Martin Del Potro will also be missing in action in New York. "I'm going to try to do my best. If I manage to keep the level I'm playing at right now, I have good chances to go far," Medvedev told reporters after crushing Pablo Carreno Busta to reach the semi-finals of the Western & Southern Open on Friday. But the big-serving Russian said he knows anything can happen on the sport's biggest stages. "One day you might feel not so good," said Medvedev, who complained about the stifling heat at the Tokyo Olympics before falling in the quarter-finals. "You're going to get an opponent who is going to play the best match of his life." And although those other titans of the game are out of the picture, the most dangerous player in all of tennis, world number one Novak Djokovic, will be especially motivated. The Serb heads to New York looking to complete a calendar Grand Slam and earn a record-breaking 21st men's Grand Slam title. "Definitely Novak is going to be the highest contender," Medvedev said. "He's winning almost all the Grand Slams right now. He won already 20. He has experience. He has a level. I'm not gonna lie. "So he's the man under pressure, but I think he likes it. Some guys under pressure can crack. That's not Novak. So he's definitely the main contender," he said, noting that if they do meet it will be in the final since they will be on opposite sides of the draw. "When I play good in New York, I can get good results, and of course, yeah, I want to win it," he said. The U.S. Open runs from Aug. 30 to Sept. 12.

Daniil Medvedev ready to seize US Open opportunity

Rafael Nadal has announced that he is ending his season because of a foot injury that has troubled him since his defeat in the semi-finals at the French Open.

Taking to his official Twitter handle, Nadal wrote,&nbsp;"Hello everyone, I wanted to inform you that unfortunately I have to end the 2021 season."

Honestly, I have been suffering much more than I should with my foot for a year and I need to take some time... to find a solution to this problem or at least improve it in order to continue to have options for the next few years,"&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;said.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-greek-government-pushes-back-on-tsitsipas-vaccine-comments-407025">Greek government pushes back on Tsitsipas' vaccine comments</a>

"I'm with the maximum enthusiasm and predisposition to do whatever it takes to recover the best possible shape to keep competing for the things that really motivate me.

"I'm convinced that with the recovery of the foot and obviously a very important daily effort... this can be achieved. I will work as hard as I can to make it happen."

<img alt="Rafael Nadal " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6a78eb67-e43f-48f6-9541-42fe8b758913" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/rafa.PNG" />

Following his defeat to Novak Djokovic at Roland Garros, Nadal skipped Wimbledon and the Olympics before making a return to the courts in Washington earlier this month.&nbsp;

He beat Jack Sock but then slipped to a three-set defeat at the hands of South Africa's Lloyd Harris, after which the 35-year-old declared that "the foot was better".

However, that proved to be premature as he then pulled out of the event in Toronto saying it was "not a happy situation" and is missing from the current tournament in Cincinatti, the traditional curtain-raiser for the US Open which starts on August 30.

Nadal said that he wanted to give his foot time to heal so that he could come back fully competitive in 2022.

"It is with the greatest enthusiasm that I will do everything I can to find the best possible form and return to competition with the objectives that are most important to me," he continued on Friday.&nbsp;

“I am convinced that I can achieve this if my foot heals and, of course, with great daily effort. I will work as much as I can to make it so.&nbsp;

"I promise to work hard to try and continue to benefit from this sport for a while longer."

(with inputs from agencies)

Rafael Nadal has announced that he is ending his season because of a foot injury that has troubled him since his defeat in the semi-finals at the French Open. Taking to his official Twitter handle, Nadal wrote, "Hello everyone, I wanted to inform you that unfortunately I have to end the 2021 season.

Rafael Nadal has announced that he is ending his season because of a foot injury that has troubled him since his defeat in the semi-finals at the French Open. Taking to his official Twitter handle, Nadal wrote, "Hello everyone, I wanted to inform you that unfortunately I have to end the 2021 season." Honestly, I have been suffering much more than I should with my foot for a year and I need to take some time... to find a solution to this problem or at least improve it in order to continue to have options for the next few years," Nadal said. ALSO READ | Greek government pushes back on Tsitsipas' vaccine comments "I'm with the maximum enthusiasm and predisposition to do whatever it takes to recover the best possible shape to keep competing for the things that really motivate me. "I'm convinced that with the recovery of the foot and obviously a very important daily effort... this can be achieved. I will work as hard as I can to make it happen." Following his defeat to Novak Djokovic at Roland Garros, Nadal skipped Wimbledon and the Olympics before making a return to the courts in Washington earlier this month. He beat Jack Sock but then slipped to a three-set defeat at the hands of South Africa's Lloyd Harris, after which the 35-year-old declared that "the foot was better". However, that proved to be premature as he then pulled out of the event in Toronto saying it was "not a happy situation" and is missing from the current tournament in Cincinatti, the traditional curtain-raiser for the US Open which starts on August 30. Nadal said that he wanted to give his foot time to heal so that he could come back fully competitive in 2022. "It is with the greatest enthusiasm that I will do everything I can to find the best possible form and return to competition with the objectives that are most important to me," he continued on Friday. “I am convinced that I can achieve this if my foot heals and, of course, with great daily effort. I will work as much as I can to make it so. "I promise to work hard to try and continue to benefit from this sport for a while longer." (with inputs from agencies)

Rafael Nadal ends season because of foot injury, says 'I've been suffering'

World No1 Ashleigh Barty beat Karolina Pliskova in three sets to win the women’s singles title at Wimbledon.

Ashleigh Barty served first in the final and she won the initial point with a backhand winner as Pliskova slipped.&nbsp;The Aussie then hit the first ace of the match. Also, she finished a love hold with another large serve to make an optimal beginning.&nbsp;She lobed Pliskova to lead 0-30. The Czech then, at that point nets a backhand. Barty backhand winner down the line to break. It was another love hold for Barty. 12 points in a row and she had a stupendous beginning to the match.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-2021-i-never-dreamed-about-this-because-it-was-too-much-matteo-berrettini-on-reaching-the-finals-397150" hreflang="en">Wimbledon 2021: 'I never dreamed about this because it was too much', Matteo Berrettini on reaching the finals</a>

The World No.1 was in rankling touch in her past rounds and she carried that form into the finals against Pliskova. Barty glanced generally in command. The Australian was able to pull out her full repertoire to smother Pliskova.&nbsp;She sliced and&nbsp;made things especially uncomfortable for the opposition,&nbsp;who appeared to have no answer.

The eighth-seeded Pliskova didn't win a solitary point in the initial three games and then double-faulted on break point to hand Barty a 4-0 lead. Ashleigh Barty took an instructing lead in the women's singles final&nbsp;against Karolina Pliskova.&nbsp;Maybe fittingly, the set ended with an unforced error from Pliskova and Barty, by playing the cleaner among the two, took the first 6-3 in under 30 mins.

<h2>SET 2</h2>

Pliskova produced a phenomenal clean winner off the Barty first serve which marvels into the corner. Barty nets a forehand in the rally - and Pliskova had discovered a way back into the second set.

A long rally to start the game closures when Pliskova hits a double-handed backhand wide, upbraiding herself for botching an opportunity to put her adversary under a lot of strain to hold. Barty before long tracks down a major first serves down the center for 30-15, Pliskova nets from the rear of the court on the following point, and another fine service from the Australian and it's a stronghold of serve.

Karolina Pliskova took the second set to a tie-breaker!

<h2>TIEBREAK</h2>

The final transformed memorable final. Pliskova's error on that backhand volley, when she drove in her service game by 40-0, seemed to have given Barty an essential edge. However, Pliskova, to her endless credit, broke back and hit her shots with huge loads of conviction in the tiebreak.&nbsp;Karolina Pliskova won the second set.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>SET 3</h2>

Ashleigh Barty rushed to 40-0. Pliskova, with an evident insouciance in the manner in which she was hitting her shots, raced back to force deuce. Yet, Barty tracked down a splendid drop shot that Pliskova couldn't run down and edged ahead in the essential final set.

The Australian lead 3-0&nbsp;in the final set.&nbsp;Pliskova continued on veer between the brilliant and the remarkable less sublime. Yet, Ashleigh Barty stayed strong and was most likely appreciative for another mistake from her rival and she moved to within one game of her first Wimbledon title.&nbsp;

She has done it! She is Wimbledon champion and she needed to work a lot harder for that, eventually, than it seemed she would after the first set. Ashleigh Barty won her&nbsp;second Grand Slam title and&nbsp;became the first Australian woman since Evonne Goolagong in 1980 to win the Wimbledon title.

&nbsp;

World No1 Ashleigh Barty beat Karolina Pliskova in three sets to win the women’s singles title at Wimbledon. Ashleigh Barty served first in the final and she won the initial point with a backhand winner as Pliskova slipped.

World No1 Ashleigh Barty beat Karolina Pliskova in three sets to win the women’s singles title at Wimbledon. Ashleigh Barty served first in the final and she won the initial point with a backhand winner as Pliskova slipped. The Aussie then hit the first ace of the match. Also, she finished a love hold with another large serve to make an optimal beginning. She lobed Pliskova to lead 0-30. The Czech then, at that point nets a backhand. Barty backhand winner down the line to break. It was another love hold for Barty. 12 points in a row and she had a stupendous beginning to the match. ALSO READ: Wimbledon 2021: 'I never dreamed about this because it was too much', Matteo Berrettini on reaching the finals The World No.1 was in rankling touch in her past rounds and she carried that form into the finals against Pliskova. Barty glanced generally in command. The Australian was able to pull out her full repertoire to smother Pliskova. She sliced and made things especially uncomfortable for the opposition, who appeared to have no answer. The eighth-seeded Pliskova didn't win a solitary point in the initial three games and then double-faulted on break point to hand Barty a 4-0 lead. Ashleigh Barty took an instructing lead in the women's singles final against Karolina Pliskova. Maybe fittingly, the set ended with an unforced error from Pliskova and Barty, by playing the cleaner among the two, took the first 6-3 in under 30 mins. SET 2 Pliskova produced a phenomenal clean winner off the Barty first serve which marvels into the corner. Barty nets a forehand in the rally - and Pliskova had discovered a way back into the second set. A long rally to start the game closures when Pliskova hits a double-handed backhand wide, upbraiding herself for botching an opportunity to put her adversary under a lot of strain to hold. Barty before long tracks down a major first serves down the center for 30-15, Pliskova nets from the rear of the court on the following point, and another fine service from the Australian and it's a stronghold of serve. Karolina Pliskova took the second set to a tie-breaker! TIEBREAK The final transformed memorable final. Pliskova's error on that backhand volley, when she drove in her service game by 40-0, seemed to have given Barty an essential edge. However, Pliskova, to her endless credit, broke back and hit her shots with huge loads of conviction in the tiebreak. Karolina Pliskova won the second set. SET 3 Ashleigh Barty rushed to 40-0. Pliskova, with an evident insouciance in the manner in which she was hitting her shots, raced back to force deuce. Yet, Barty tracked down a splendid drop shot that Pliskova couldn't run down and edged ahead in the essential final set. The Australian lead 3-0 in the final set. Pliskova continued on veer between the brilliant and the remarkable less sublime. Yet, Ashleigh Barty stayed strong and was most likely appreciative for another mistake from her rival and she moved to within one game of her first Wimbledon title. She has done it! She is Wimbledon champion and she needed to work a lot harder for that, eventually, than it seemed she would after the first set. Ashleigh Barty won her second Grand Slam title and became the first Australian woman since Evonne Goolagong in 1980 to win the Wimbledon title.

Wimbledon 2021: Ashleigh Barty dominates and goes on to win her second Grand Slam

Ashleigh Barty booked her slot in the third round of Wimbledon 2021 with a straight-set triumph over Anna Blinkova on Thursday. She&nbsp;had to retire at the French Open because of a physical issue, was stupendous during her second-round match against Anna Blinkova. She broke the World No. 89 six times on the way to a 6-4, 6-3 triumph.&nbsp;

In her post-match interview, the Aussie said that she feels comfortable on grass while communicating her desire for more grasscourt competitions on the principal circuit. She said: "This is a beautiful court. I feel that grasscourt tennis is where it's at. I wish we could play the whole year on it. It's a traditional surface, I just love it and I certainly enjoyed being back out here today."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="Wimbledon: Fun day at the office for Zverev as he reaches third round">Wimbledon: Fun day at the office for Zverev as he reaches third round</a>

Ashleigh Barty then, at that point stored acclaim on her rival Anna Blinkova, demanding that she and her group needed to do a ton of homework while sorting out their procedure against the Russian. She said: "We had to do a lot of homework to try and work out how we were going to figure out her game and how we matched up, but she played a great match today."

Ashleigh Barty additionally brought up how Anna Blinkova had the option to run her nearby in the perishing moments of the match. The Russian had four break point openings at 3-4, however, she neglected to underwrite. Ashleigh Barty hung on prior to breaking by and by a couple of moments later to secure the triumph.&nbsp;

"Really, there were a few points here and there and it could have been a different story, so I'm happy to be able to get through and get another opportunity to play," Barty said.

In her on-court interview after the match, Ashleigh Barty uncovered that she was so glad to play in front of the spectators at SW19. She likewise affirmed that the involvement with the grass-court Slam was nothing without its crowd.&nbsp;

"It's been a great year so far. I think for all the players and the fans, it is certainly nice to have you guys in the stands. I think Wimbledon wouldn't quite be the same without you, so it's nice to have you here."&nbsp;

Ashleigh Barty will next face Katerina Siniakova for a spot in the second seven-day stretch of Wimbledon. In the event that she wins, the Aussie could confront reigning Roland Garros champion Barbora Krejcikova in the fourth round.&nbsp;

It is appropriate to take note oh Ashleigh Barty's professional best outcome at Wimbledon came in 2019 when she arrived at the fourth round on the rear of a 15-match series of wins. The Aussie's run, be that as it may, reached a matter-of-fact conclusion as she was beaten in three sets by Alison Riske.

Ashleigh Barty booked her slot in the third round of Wimbledon 2021 with a straight-set triumph over Anna Blinkova on Thursday. She had to retire at the French Open because of a physical issue, was stupendous during her second-round match against Anna Blinkova.

Ashleigh Barty booked her slot in the third round of Wimbledon 2021 with a straight-set triumph over Anna Blinkova on Thursday. She had to retire at the French Open because of a physical issue, was stupendous during her second-round match against Anna Blinkova. She broke the World No. 89 six times on the way to a 6-4, 6-3 triumph. In her post-match interview, the Aussie said that she feels comfortable on grass while communicating her desire for more grasscourt competitions on the principal circuit. She said: "This is a beautiful court. I feel that grasscourt tennis is where it's at. I wish we could play the whole year on it. It's a traditional surface, I just love it and I certainly enjoyed being back out here today." ALSO READ: Wimbledon: Fun day at the office for Zverev as he reaches third round Ashleigh Barty then, at that point stored acclaim on her rival Anna Blinkova, demanding that she and her group needed to do a ton of homework while sorting out their procedure against the Russian. She said: "We had to do a lot of homework to try and work out how we were going to figure out her game and how we matched up, but she played a great match today." Ashleigh Barty additionally brought up how Anna Blinkova had the option to run her nearby in the perishing moments of the match. The Russian had four break point openings at 3-4, however, she neglected to underwrite. Ashleigh Barty hung on prior to breaking by and by a couple of moments later to secure the triumph. "Really, there were a few points here and there and it could have been a different story, so I'm happy to be able to get through and get another opportunity to play," Barty said. In her on-court interview after the match, Ashleigh Barty uncovered that she was so glad to play in front of the spectators at SW19. She likewise affirmed that the involvement with the grass-court Slam was nothing without its crowd. "It's been a great year so far. I think for all the players and the fans, it is certainly nice to have you guys in the stands. I think Wimbledon wouldn't quite be the same without you, so it's nice to have you here." Ashleigh Barty will next face Katerina Siniakova for a spot in the second seven-day stretch of Wimbledon. In the event that she wins, the Aussie could confront reigning Roland Garros champion Barbora Krejcikova in the fourth round. It is appropriate to take note oh Ashleigh Barty's professional best outcome at Wimbledon came in 2019 when she arrived at the fourth round on the rear of a 15-match series of wins. The Aussie's run, be that as it may, reached a matter-of-fact conclusion as she was beaten in three sets by Alison Riske.

Wimbledon 2021: I wish we could play the whole year on grass, says Ashleigh Barty

World No. 1 Novak Djokovic conquered Stefanos Tsitsipas in the Roland Garros final on Sunday to become the only man in the Open Era to finish with a twin career Grand Slam. The Serb secured his nineteenth Grand Slam title by upsetting a two-set deficiency in the end to win 6-7(6), 2-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-4.&nbsp;

Two days earlier, Novak Djokovic had crushed 13-time champion, Rafael Nadal, in an epic four-set elimination round. He conceded in the on-court show after the final that the two matches positioned among the best of his profession.&nbsp;

"The atmosphere was amazing two days ago against Rafa and today against Stefanos. Unforgettable matches, unforgettable moments for me, my career, my life. I'll definitely remember these last 48 hours for the rest of my life" - he said.&nbsp;

The Serb was in hot water subsequent to losing the initial two sets to Stefanos Tsitsipas. However, with no guarantees so regularly the case, Novak Djokovic braved the tempest and tracked down his best tennis when he generally expected to.&nbsp;

The World No. 1 conceded he was simply attempting to stay with Stefanos Tsitsipas in the third set, and that he acquired certainty subsequent to getting an early break.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-i-hope-one-day-i-can-achieve-half-of-what-djokovic-has-stefanos-tsitsipas-391285" hreflang="en">French Open: 'I hope one day I can achieve half of what Djokovic has': Stefanos Tsitsipas</a>

"I just wanted to stay patient and I hoped that I could stick there with him in the third set. I managed to make an early break in the third, and actually, I liked my chances from then onwards. I felt like he's starting to overthink I got into his head."

Stefanos Tsitsipas may have lost the match, however, he acquired numerous admirers with his assurance and battling soul. Also, albeit the youth looked emptied subsequent to losing his lady Grand Slam last, Novak Djokovic guaranteed the Greek that he would proceed to accomplish huge things in his profession.&nbsp;

"I would like to say a few words to Stefanos. I can relate to what he's going through who has lost 10 out of 29 Major finals. "I understand how difficult that is, losing in the finals of a Grand Slam. These are the kind of matches that you learn from the most. Knowing him and his team, he's going to come out much stronger from this match. I definitely believe he's going to win many Grand Slams in the future."

World No. 1 likewise conveyed a message to tennis fans in Greece, guaranteeing them that the fate of the game was in acceptable hands.&nbsp;

"I would like to say hello to all the brothers and sisters in Greece. We have a very close relationship with Greece. You have a great champion in Stefanos and a bright future in both men's and women's tennis" - he concluded.

World No. 1 Novak Djokovic conquered Stefanos Tsitsipas in the Roland Garros final on Sunday to become the only man in the Open Era to finish with a twin career Grand Slam.

World No. 1 Novak Djokovic conquered Stefanos Tsitsipas in the Roland Garros final on Sunday to become the only man in the Open Era to finish with a twin career Grand Slam. The Serb secured his nineteenth Grand Slam title by upsetting a two-set deficiency in the end to win 6-7(6), 2-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-4. Two days earlier, Novak Djokovic had crushed 13-time champion, Rafael Nadal, in an epic four-set elimination round. He conceded in the on-court show after the final that the two matches positioned among the best of his profession. "The atmosphere was amazing two days ago against Rafa and today against Stefanos. Unforgettable matches, unforgettable moments for me, my career, my life. I'll definitely remember these last 48 hours for the rest of my life" - he said. The Serb was in hot water subsequent to losing the initial two sets to Stefanos Tsitsipas. However, with no guarantees so regularly the case, Novak Djokovic braved the tempest and tracked down his best tennis when he generally expected to. The World No. 1 conceded he was simply attempting to stay with Stefanos Tsitsipas in the third set, and that he acquired certainty subsequent to getting an early break. ALSO READ: French Open: 'I hope one day I can achieve half of what Djokovic has': Stefanos Tsitsipas "I just wanted to stay patient and I hoped that I could stick there with him in the third set. I managed to make an early break in the third, and actually, I liked my chances from then onwards. I felt like he's starting to overthink I got into his head." Stefanos Tsitsipas may have lost the match, however, he acquired numerous admirers with his assurance and battling soul. Also, albeit the youth looked emptied subsequent to losing his lady Grand Slam last, Novak Djokovic guaranteed the Greek that he would proceed to accomplish huge things in his profession. "I would like to say a few words to Stefanos. I can relate to what he's going through who has lost 10 out of 29 Major finals. "I understand how difficult that is, losing in the finals of a Grand Slam. These are the kind of matches that you learn from the most. Knowing him and his team, he's going to come out much stronger from this match. I definitely believe he's going to win many Grand Slams in the future." World No. 1 likewise conveyed a message to tennis fans in Greece, guaranteeing them that the fate of the game was in acceptable hands. "I would like to say hello to all the brothers and sisters in Greece. We have a very close relationship with Greece. You have a great champion in Stefanos and a bright future in both men's and women's tennis" - he concluded.

French Open: Will remember last 48 hours for rest of my life - Novak Djokovic savours historic win

To beat Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros, you don't simply need to play a remarkable tennis match. You need to stretch yourself past any known restrictions of the human body and continue to do that monotonously until the ball doesn't return anymore.&nbsp;Two days ago, the Serb created a breathtaking&nbsp;execution to pull off a definitive test, halting the certainty that is Rafael Nadal win&nbsp;on clay court.

The overall influence is something fragile in sport. Upset it at all when you're on top and it very well may be amazingly troublesome attempting to reassert control. Djokovic knows some things about that specific difficult exercise, and he ensured he didn't fiddle with it a lot with an astonishing exhibition in the French Open final.&nbsp;

Djokovic was not going to yield a thing in the wake of dropping the initial two sets of the French Open final against his opponent, fresher adversary, Tsitsipas. The 22-year-old ran into a prevailing situation without showing any nerves in his debut significant final. Tsitsipas won the first set 7-6. What's more, the second set 6-2 in only 32 minutes.&nbsp;

Djokovic didn't ever freeze. He stayed created and utilised extraordinary profundity and assortment including a lot of drop shots to tempest to his triumph. The Serbian ace returned and won the third set 6-3, the fourth set 6-2 out of 33 minutes, and the fifth set as well. Djokovic acquired probably the best execution to eventually destroy his adversary's course of action with exactness and ability. This was the sixth instance where Djokovic had&nbsp;arrived back from two sets down and the first occasion when he has done it in a Grand Slam final.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-i-hope-one-day-i-can-achieve-half-of-what-djokovic-has-stefanos-tsitsipas-391285" hreflang="en">French Open: 'I hope one day I can achieve half of what Djokovic has': Stefanos Tsitsipas</a>

A nineteenth Major honor for Novak Djokovic, his second Roland Garros title. A contest by Stefanos Tsitsipas yet by the day's end, Novak Djokovic showed why he is one of the best players to grace the sport.

Through coarseness, assurance, and a solid portion of genuine tennis wizardry, he finished a critical win to carry his all-out number of Slams to an astounding tally of 19.&nbsp;

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“You can predict him as the winner, but Roland-Garros is the toughest Grand Slam in the history." 
 
Hear from Djokovic's longtime coach Marian Vajda on what he thinks made all the difference during his player's title run. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a>
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Watching a virtuoso at work isn't, by and large, an ordinary occurrence. So we'd all well to take in as a considerable lot of Novak Djokovic's exhibitions as is humanly conceivable at this moment.&nbsp;We have seen various instances of it all through his profession, however, it actually comes as somewhat of stun when Novak Djokovic delivers one more science resisting accomplishment. His capacity to defeat depleting slugfests, pounding misfortunes, and unrealistic obstacles just never go downhill; regardless of whether he is aging when all is said and done.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-novak-djokovic-scripts-history-with-19th-grand-slam-in-thrilling-french-open-final-391233" hreflang="en">Tennis: Novak Djokovic scripts history with 19th Grand Slam in thrilling French Open final</a>

Each cohort has its rush of fabulous stars, yet the way wherein the current 'Big Three' have cornered the universe of tennis stays a wonder in itself.&nbsp;There will consistently be some who guarantee that Rafael Nadal's grin and bear-it dust mentality is the stuff of legend. Roger Federer's tennis is the most soul-blending of all. Furthermore, there are the individuals who demand that.&nbsp;In any case, if tennis is decided as a serious undertaking where a definitive goal is to win, then, at that point Novak Djokovic has no equivalent.

In any case, at the current second, let us cheer in the triumph of the stand-in and the champion, Novak Djokovic. Here's to trusting that he keeps on giving us more snapshots of bliss, both on and off the court, with his hilarious pantomimes likewise making a comeback.

To beat Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros, you don't simply need to play a remarkable tennis match. You need to stretch yourself past any known restrictions of the human body and continue to do that monotonously until the ball doesn't return anymore.

To beat Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros, you don't simply need to play a remarkable tennis match. You need to stretch yourself past any known restrictions of the human body and continue to do that monotonously until the ball doesn't return anymore. Two days ago, the Serb created a breathtaking execution to pull off a definitive test, halting the certainty that is Rafael Nadal win on clay court. The overall influence is something fragile in sport. Upset it at all when you're on top and it very well may be amazingly troublesome attempting to reassert control. Djokovic knows some things about that specific difficult exercise, and he ensured he didn't fiddle with it a lot with an astonishing exhibition in the French Open final. Djokovic was not going to yield a thing in the wake of dropping the initial two sets of the French Open final against his opponent, fresher adversary, Tsitsipas. The 22-year-old ran into a prevailing situation without showing any nerves in his debut significant final. Tsitsipas won the first set 7-6. What's more, the second set 6-2 in only 32 minutes. Djokovic didn't ever freeze. He stayed created and utilised extraordinary profundity and assortment including a lot of drop shots to tempest to his triumph. The Serbian ace returned and won the third set 6-3, the fourth set 6-2 out of 33 minutes, and the fifth set as well. Djokovic acquired probably the best execution to eventually destroy his adversary's course of action with exactness and ability. This was the sixth instance where Djokovic had arrived back from two sets down and the first occasion when he has done it in a Grand Slam final. ALSO READ: French Open: 'I hope one day I can achieve half of what Djokovic has': Stefanos Tsitsipas A nineteenth Major honor for Novak Djokovic, his second Roland Garros title. A contest by Stefanos Tsitsipas yet by the day's end, Novak Djokovic showed why he is one of the best players to grace the sport. Through coarseness, assurance, and a solid portion of genuine tennis wizardry, he finished a critical win to carry his all-out number of Slams to an astounding tally of 19. “You can predict him as the winner, but Roland-Garros is the toughest Grand Slam in the history." Hear from Djokovic's longtime coach Marian Vajda on what he thinks made all the difference during his player's title run. #RolandGarros — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 14, 2021 × Watching a virtuoso at work isn't, by and large, an ordinary occurrence. So we'd all well to take in as a considerable lot of Novak Djokovic's exhibitions as is humanly conceivable at this moment. We have seen various instances of it all through his profession, however, it actually comes as somewhat of stun when Novak Djokovic delivers one more science resisting accomplishment. His capacity to defeat depleting slugfests, pounding misfortunes, and unrealistic obstacles just never go downhill; regardless of whether he is aging when all is said and done. ALSO READ: Tennis: Novak Djokovic scripts history with 19th Grand Slam in thrilling French Open final Each cohort has its rush of fabulous stars, yet the way wherein the current 'Big Three' have cornered the universe of tennis stays a wonder in itself. There will consistently be some who guarantee that Rafael Nadal's grin and bear-it dust mentality is the stuff of legend. Roger Federer's tennis is the most soul-blending of all. Furthermore, there are the individuals who demand that. In any case, if tennis is decided as a serious undertaking where a definitive goal is to win, then, at that point Novak Djokovic has no equivalent. In any case, at the current second, let us cheer in the triumph of the stand-in and the champion, Novak Djokovic. Here's to trusting that he keeps on giving us more snapshots of bliss, both on and off the court, with his hilarious pantomimes likewise making a comeback.

Tennis: Novak Djokovic a man synonymous to the quote 'never-say-die attitude'

After dethroning 'king of clay' Rafa Nadal at the French Open, Novak Djokovic will next face a first-time Grand Slam finalist in Stefanos Tsitsipas as the world number one bids to become the first man in the open era to win all four majors at least twice.

Roy Emerson and Rod Laver are the only men to have won each of the four Grand Slams on two or more occasions but no one has achieved the feat since 1968 when the sport allowed professional players to compete at the majors.

A second trophy at Roland Garros, after his 2016 triumph on the red clay, on Sunday will also give the 34-year-old Serbian his 19th Grand Slam title - one short of Nadal and Roger Federer's men's record.

His challenger will be a 22-year-old who is bidding to become the first Greek to win a singles major.

Tsitsipas has long been marked out as a future Grand Slam champion and has already collected trophies from the season-ending ATP Finals and a Masters 1000 tournament.

But he had drawn a blank the three times he reached the last-four stage at a major before Friday's semi-final where he took down U.S. Open finalist Alexander Zverev in a thrilling five-set duel.

The first Grand Slam finalist from Greece will arrive on Court Philippe Chatrier on Sunday with a 2-5 win-loss record against the Serbian but will draw inspiration from the fact that he has a Tour-leading win tally in 2021.

"I'm looking forward to that challenge," Tsitsipas said on Friday, looking ahead to his first major final.

"I'm looking forward to bring my game to kind of challenge myself to step it up."

Nothing less than his 'A' game would suffice for the Greek as he has never managed to defeat Djokovic on clay though he took the Serbian to five sets in the semi-finals at the same venue last year.

The emotions of Friday's fantastic win over 13-time French Open winner Nadal might leave a hangover for most players but that might not be a problem for Djokovic with his incredible mental strength.

"It's not the first time that I play an epic semi-final in a Grand Slam and then I have to come back in less than 48 hours and play finals," he said.

"My recovery abilities are pretty good, I must say, throughout my career ... I know what I need to do."

Djokovic was happy to relax a bit and enjoy his semi-final win over his great rival but will not take anything for granted against the Greek.

"He's in great form," the Serbian said. "I think he matured as a player a lot. Clay (is) arguably his best surface.

"We played an epic five-setter last year in the semis here. Yeah, I know it's going to be another tough one.

"I'm hoping I can recharge my batteries as much as I can because I'm going to need some power and energy for that one."

After dethroning 'king of clay' Rafa Nadal at the French Open, Novak Djokovic will next face a first-time Grand Slam finalist in Stefanos Tsitsipas as the world number one bids to become the first man in the open era to win all four majors at least twice.

After dethroning 'king of clay' Rafa Nadal at the French Open, Novak Djokovic will next face a first-time Grand Slam finalist in Stefanos Tsitsipas as the world number one bids to become the first man in the open era to win all four majors at least twice. Roy Emerson and Rod Laver are the only men to have won each of the four Grand Slams on two or more occasions but no one has achieved the feat since 1968 when the sport allowed professional players to compete at the majors. A second trophy at Roland Garros, after his 2016 triumph on the red clay, on Sunday will also give the 34-year-old Serbian his 19th Grand Slam title - one short of Nadal and Roger Federer's men's record. His challenger will be a 22-year-old who is bidding to become the first Greek to win a singles major. Tsitsipas has long been marked out as a future Grand Slam champion and has already collected trophies from the season-ending ATP Finals and a Masters 1000 tournament. But he had drawn a blank the three times he reached the last-four stage at a major before Friday's semi-final where he took down U.S. Open finalist Alexander Zverev in a thrilling five-set duel. The first Grand Slam finalist from Greece will arrive on Court Philippe Chatrier on Sunday with a 2-5 win-loss record against the Serbian but will draw inspiration from the fact that he has a Tour-leading win tally in 2021. "I'm looking forward to that challenge," Tsitsipas said on Friday, looking ahead to his first major final. "I'm looking forward to bring my game to kind of challenge myself to step it up." Nothing less than his 'A' game would suffice for the Greek as he has never managed to defeat Djokovic on clay though he took the Serbian to five sets in the semi-finals at the same venue last year. The emotions of Friday's fantastic win over 13-time French Open winner Nadal might leave a hangover for most players but that might not be a problem for Djokovic with his incredible mental strength. "It's not the first time that I play an epic semi-final in a Grand Slam and then I have to come back in less than 48 hours and play finals," he said. "My recovery abilities are pretty good, I must say, throughout my career ... I know what I need to do." Djokovic was happy to relax a bit and enjoy his semi-final win over his great rival but will not take anything for granted against the Greek. "He's in great form," the Serbian said. "I think he matured as a player a lot. Clay (is) arguably his best surface. "We played an epic five-setter last year in the semis here. Yeah, I know it's going to be another tough one. "I'm hoping I can recharge my batteries as much as I can because I'm going to need some power and energy for that one."

French Open: After toppling Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic hopes to be ready for Stefanos Tsitsipas

Unseeded Czech Barbora Krejcikova completed a remarkable transition from a doubles specialist to a Grand Slam singles champion on Saturday by conquering Russia's Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova in the final of the French Open.

The 25-year-old, a former doubles number one, defeated Pavlyuchenkova 6-1 2-6 6-4 to become the first Czech to lift the Suzanne Lenglen Cup since Hana Mandlikova, who represented former Czechoslovakia, triumphed in 1981.

Krejcikova was languishing outside the top 100 before last September's edition of the French Open - her preparations restricted to a series of ITF Circuit events back home - but a run to the fourth round in Paris changed her singles career.

Her preparations were much more solid this year as she won her maiden WTA title in Strasbourg in the run-up to Roland Garros. Following Saturday's win, Krejcikova extended her winning run to 12 matches.

She entered Paris at a career-high 33rd spot and will further rise to 15th when the rankings are updated on Monday.

"It's hard to put words together right now. I can't believe what has just happened, that I've just won a Grand Slam," said Krejcikova, who became a first-time women's major winner in Paris for the sixth successive year.

After suffering the ignominy of numerous qualifying losses at the Grand Slams, Krejcikova won the ultimate prize in claycourt&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;in only her fifth main draw singles appearance at a major.

Krejcikova could walk away with even more silverware from Paris this weekend as she will be back on the court on Sunday with fellow Czech Katerina Siniakova, with the duo attempting to win their second Roland Garros doubles title following their success in 2018.

The win will also see her reclaim the top doubles ranking.

On a sun-bathed Court Philippe Chatrier, Krejcikova and Pavlyuchenkova dominated a set each before the Czech surged ahead with a break of serve and completing the victory in just under two hours.

It was Pavlyuchenkova who started the final on a confident note, breaking the unseeded Czech at the start but that turned out to be the only game she would win in the opening set as Krejcikova reeled off six straight games.

Krejcikova started moving the Russian around by mixing her free-flowing, easy-on-the-eye groundstrokes with deft drop shots, making it difficult for Pavlyuchenkova to settle down.

She got the break back in the second game with a forehand lob on the stretch that went over the head of an advancing Pavlyuchenkova and landed on the sideline with the Russian rooted to her spot.

Pavlyuchenkova tried to hang in on the rallies but did not find solutions to counter the Czech's tactical game in the opening set but added a bit of aggression to her game in the second, jumping to a 5-1 lead in no time.

A niggle on the left leg, however, seemed to restrict her movement and after getting broken for 5-2 she received medical attention on court and had her thigh taped.

She broke Krejcikova's serve after returning to court and got the match level at one-set all.

The players raised their level in the deciding set and the ferocity of the&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;increased. After an exchange of service breaks, Krejcikova managed to find an even higher gear to get another break for a 4-3 lead.

Krejcikova wasted two match points in the ninth game and another with a double fault at 5-4 up before Pavlyuchenkova sent a return long to end the contest.

There was some confusion over the line call and Krejcikova briefly paused not knowing if she should celebrate but after a hard look at the mark, she finally threw her arms up in jubilation before hugging her opponent at the net.

While her celebration was muted, she showed more emotion while paying tribute to the late Jana Novotna, who had been her mentor.

"Pretty much her last words were just enjoying and just try to win a Grand Slam. I know somewhere she's looking over me," Krejcikova said of the 1998 Wimbledon champion, who died of cancer in 2017.

"She was such an inspiration for me. I just really miss her. I hope she's happy right now."

Unseeded Czech Barbora Krejcikova completed a remarkable transition from a doubles specialist to a Grand Slam singles champion on Saturday by conquering Russia's Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova in the final of the French Open.

Unseeded Czech Barbora Krejcikova completed a remarkable transition from a doubles specialist to a Grand Slam singles champion on Saturday by conquering Russia's Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova in the final of the French Open. The 25-year-old, a former doubles number one, defeated Pavlyuchenkova 6-1 2-6 6-4 to become the first Czech to lift the Suzanne Lenglen Cup since Hana Mandlikova, who represented former Czechoslovakia, triumphed in 1981. Krejcikova was languishing outside the top 100 before last September's edition of the French Open - her preparations restricted to a series of ITF Circuit events back home - but a run to the fourth round in Paris changed her singles career. Her preparations were much more solid this year as she won her maiden WTA title in Strasbourg in the run-up to Roland Garros. Following Saturday's win, Krejcikova extended her winning run to 12 matches. She entered Paris at a career-high 33rd spot and will further rise to 15th when the rankings are updated on Monday. "It's hard to put words together right now. I can't believe what has just happened, that I've just won a Grand Slam," said Krejcikova, who became a first-time women's major winner in Paris for the sixth successive year. After suffering the ignominy of numerous qualifying losses at the Grand Slams, Krejcikova won the ultimate prize in claycourt tennis in only her fifth main draw singles appearance at a major. Krejcikova could walk away with even more silverware from Paris this weekend as she will be back on the court on Sunday with fellow Czech Katerina Siniakova, with the duo attempting to win their second Roland Garros doubles title following their success in 2018. The win will also see her reclaim the top doubles ranking. On a sun-bathed Court Philippe Chatrier, Krejcikova and Pavlyuchenkova dominated a set each before the Czech surged ahead with a break of serve and completing the victory in just under two hours. It was Pavlyuchenkova who started the final on a confident note, breaking the unseeded Czech at the start but that turned out to be the only game she would win in the opening set as Krejcikova reeled off six straight games. Krejcikova started moving the Russian around by mixing her free-flowing, easy-on-the-eye groundstrokes with deft drop shots, making it difficult for Pavlyuchenkova to settle down. She got the break back in the second game with a forehand lob on the stretch that went over the head of an advancing Pavlyuchenkova and landed on the sideline with the Russian rooted to her spot. Pavlyuchenkova tried to hang in on the rallies but did not find solutions to counter the Czech's tactical game in the opening set but added a bit of aggression to her game in the second, jumping to a 5-1 lead in no time. A niggle on the left leg, however, seemed to restrict her movement and after getting broken for 5-2 she received medical attention on court and had her thigh taped. She broke Krejcikova's serve after returning to court and got the match level at one-set all. The players raised their level in the deciding set and the ferocity of the tennis increased. After an exchange of service breaks, Krejcikova managed to find an even higher gear to get another break for a 4-3 lead. Krejcikova wasted two match points in the ninth game and another with a double fault at 5-4 up before Pavlyuchenkova sent a return long to end the contest. There was some confusion over the line call and Krejcikova briefly paused not knowing if she should celebrate but after a hard look at the mark, she finally threw her arms up in jubilation before hugging her opponent at the net. While her celebration was muted, she showed more emotion while paying tribute to the late Jana Novotna, who had been her mentor. "Pretty much her last words were just enjoying and just try to win a Grand Slam. I know somewhere she's looking over me," Krejcikova said of the 1998 Wimbledon champion, who died of cancer in 2017. "She was such an inspiration for me. I just really miss her. I hope she's happy right now."

French Open: Unseeded Barbora Krejcikova wins maiden Grand Slam singles title in Paris

Czech Barbora Krejcikova completed a singles-doubles title sweep at the French Open on Sunday when she lifted the women's doubles trophy with compatriot Katerina Siniakova, beating Iga Swiatek and Bethanie Mattek-Sands 6-4 6-2.

Krejcikova became the first player to win both the women's singles and doubles title in Paris since Frenchwoman Mary Pierce completed the feat in 2000.

The 25-year-old Krejcikova, who will climb to 15th in singles following her maiden Grand Slam singles title on Saturday, will return as the world's number one doubles player when the rankings are updated on Monday.

Swiatek, the 2020 singles champion, and Mattek-Sands were playing only their third tournament together and found the going tough against Siniakova's nimble movement and skillful netplay and Krejcikova's strong performance from the baseline.

The second-seeded Czech pair, who also won the Roland Garros title in 2018, quickly jumped to a 5-1 lead and though Swiatek and Mattek-Sands fought back to 5-4 they could not stop Krejcikova from serving out for the set.

On a windy day under the Parisian sun, Siniakova had continued trouble with her serve and the Czech duo had a total of eight double faults in the match.

But the pair, who also won the 2019 Wimbledon doubles title, overcame their serving trouble with their experience and excellent coordination.

The number two seeds lost serve once in the second set but broke their opponents three times and sealed the win when Siniakova hit a backhand winner on their second match point.

Czech Barbora Krejcikova completed a singles-doubles title sweep at the French Open on Sunday when she lifted the women's doubles trophy with compatriot Katerina Siniakova, beating Iga Swiatek and Bethanie Mattek-Sands 6-4 6-2.

Czech Barbora Krejcikova completed a singles-doubles title sweep at the French Open on Sunday when she lifted the women's doubles trophy with compatriot Katerina Siniakova, beating Iga Swiatek and Bethanie Mattek-Sands 6-4 6-2. Krejcikova became the first player to win both the women's singles and doubles title in Paris since Frenchwoman Mary Pierce completed the feat in 2000. The 25-year-old Krejcikova, who will climb to 15th in singles following her maiden Grand Slam singles title on Saturday, will return as the world's number one doubles player when the rankings are updated on Monday. Swiatek, the 2020 singles champion, and Mattek-Sands were playing only their third tournament together and found the going tough against Siniakova's nimble movement and skillful netplay and Krejcikova's strong performance from the baseline. The second-seeded Czech pair, who also won the Roland Garros title in 2018, quickly jumped to a 5-1 lead and though Swiatek and Mattek-Sands fought back to 5-4 they could not stop Krejcikova from serving out for the set. On a windy day under the Parisian sun, Siniakova had continued trouble with her serve and the Czech duo had a total of eight double faults in the match. But the pair, who also won the 2019 Wimbledon doubles title, overcame their serving trouble with their experience and excellent coordination. The number two seeds lost serve once in the second set but broke their opponents three times and sealed the win when Siniakova hit a backhand winner on their second match point.

French Open: Barbora Krejcikova wins her second French Open title in less than 24 hours

After two passionate, career-defining semi-final triumphs – and two perceptible, spellbinding week in Paris – it will be 18-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic and Stefanos Tsitsipas go head to head at the Court Philippe-Chatrier in Paris in the French Open Final 2021 on Sunday, June 13, 2021.&nbsp;

Djokovic trashed Rafael Nadal 3-6, 6-3, 7-6(4), 6-2 on Friday, giving the Spaniard his first historical loss at Roland Garros. Djokovic additionally turned into the principal player at any point to expel the King of Clay in the elimination rounds of the French Open.&nbsp;

Stefanos Tsitsipas wasn't exactly at his best in the elimination round, however, he did barely enough to take the initial two sets. Alexander Zverev then, at that point increased his level while the Greek withdrew, permitting the German to get back on level terms. A few blunders from the lean German permitted Stefanos Tsitsipas to escape with a hold, and he never thought back from that point.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-novak-djokovic-eyes-elite-52-year-old-landmark-at-french-open-final-391145" hreflang="en">Tennis: Novak Djokovic eyes elite 52-year-old landmark at French Open final</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Head-to-head</h2>

This will be Novak Djokovic and Stefanos Tsitsipas's eighth meeting in this contest. Djokovic is by a long shot the top choice in no holds barred clash, having commended a triumph on five events up until now, while Tsitsipas has gotten a victory multiple times right up 'til the present time.

Given the display shown by Djokovic against Nadal, he heads into the men's final as the firm top pick. While Tsitsipas has the legs to go head to head with Djokovic, he is yet to show the sort of mental strength that is the save of the Big Three.&nbsp;

Tsitsipas'&nbsp;benefit is that he can create gigantic measures of force on his serve and groundstrokes. Yet, that will probably give way to the schemes of Djokovic, who is a specialist at diverting speed.&nbsp;

We could see significantly more cautious cuts utilised by Tsitsipas in a bid to change the speed of the assemblies. In any case, it stays not yet clear how well he handles Novak Djokovic's consistent torrent to his strike side.&nbsp;

In the event that Tsitsipas desires to win his first Slam, he would need to figure out how to reliably hit through the Serb. Yet, that is more difficult than one might expect, particularly since Djokovic looks especially resolved to win his 19th Major title.

Djokovic will likewise get an opportunity to turn into the first player over the most recent 50 years to win every one of the four Grand Slams in any event twice in his brilliant career. Then again, Tsitsipas had become the first Greek player to enter the last of the Major and he will hope to bring his best against an in-structure&nbsp;Djokovic. Tsitsipas will have the difficult task of going past the Serbian and it will require a major exertion from the 22-year to bulldoze the veteran. 
&nbsp;

After two passionate, career-defining semi-final triumphs – and two perceptible, spellbinding week in Paris – it will be 18-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic and Stefanos Tsitsipas go head to head at the Court Philippe-Chatrier in Paris in the French Open Final 2021 on Sunday, June 13, 2021.

After two passionate, career-defining semi-final triumphs – and two perceptible, spellbinding week in Paris – it will be 18-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic and Stefanos Tsitsipas go head to head at the Court Philippe-Chatrier in Paris in the French Open Final 2021 on Sunday, June 13, 2021. Djokovic trashed Rafael Nadal 3-6, 6-3, 7-6(4), 6-2 on Friday, giving the Spaniard his first historical loss at Roland Garros. Djokovic additionally turned into the principal player at any point to expel the King of Clay in the elimination rounds of the French Open. Stefanos Tsitsipas wasn't exactly at his best in the elimination round, however, he did barely enough to take the initial two sets. Alexander Zverev then, at that point increased his level while the Greek withdrew, permitting the German to get back on level terms. A few blunders from the lean German permitted Stefanos Tsitsipas to escape with a hold, and he never thought back from that point. ALSO READ: Tennis: Novak Djokovic eyes elite 52-year-old landmark at French Open final Head-to-head This will be Novak Djokovic and Stefanos Tsitsipas's eighth meeting in this contest. Djokovic is by a long shot the top choice in no holds barred clash, having commended a triumph on five events up until now, while Tsitsipas has gotten a victory multiple times right up 'til the present time. Given the display shown by Djokovic against Nadal, he heads into the men's final as the firm top pick. While Tsitsipas has the legs to go head to head with Djokovic, he is yet to show the sort of mental strength that is the save of the Big Three. Tsitsipas' benefit is that he can create gigantic measures of force on his serve and groundstrokes. Yet, that will probably give way to the schemes of Djokovic, who is a specialist at diverting speed. We could see significantly more cautious cuts utilised by Tsitsipas in a bid to change the speed of the assemblies. In any case, it stays not yet clear how well he handles Novak Djokovic's consistent torrent to his strike side. In the event that Tsitsipas desires to win his first Slam, he would need to figure out how to reliably hit through the Serb. Yet, that is more difficult than one might expect, particularly since Djokovic looks especially resolved to win his 19th Major title. Djokovic will likewise get an opportunity to turn into the first player over the most recent 50 years to win every one of the four Grand Slams in any event twice in his brilliant career. Then again, Tsitsipas had become the first Greek player to enter the last of the Major and he will hope to bring his best against an in-structure Djokovic. Tsitsipas will have the difficult task of going past the Serbian and it will require a major exertion from the 22-year to bulldoze the veteran.

French Open Men's Final Preview: Novak Djokovic and Stefanos Tsitsipas ready for title showdown

Roger Federer says he has seen "improvement and no setbacks" since returning to the Tour in March after over a year out due to two knee operations and with his grasscourt season kicking off in Halle next week, it's "go time".

Federer initially eyed a return at this year's Australian Open a year after exiting the 2020 Grand Slam at the semi-final stage, but slow progress in his recovery delayed his comeback.

He played his first match back at the Qatar Open but said he was targeting full fitness for the grasscourt season and wants to reach his peak by Wimbledon, where he has won eight of his 20 Grand Slam titles.

"I probably would have taken the place I am today," the 39-year-old, who pulled out from the French Open last week to protect his body after a grueling third-round win, told reporters on Friday.

"March was still very early days for my comeback but I just felt like it was a good time to come back. I thought that Doha actually went extremely well overall because I know my expectations were close to zero over there. So I'm happy I was able to play two competitive matches over there.

"Ever since I've only seen improvement, no setbacks. After I guess the two operations I have to be extremely careful with every move I do. But now it's really gone time. This is essentially where the season really hopefully starts for me."

Since pulling out of Roland Garros, Federer had his first hit on Thursday at the ATP 500 event at the German city of Halle, where he has won 10 titles.

The Swiss said he had low-intensity practice for 30 minutes but felt his body had recovered from the rigors of the claycourt Grand Slam in Paris.

"The knee just needs always extra care, and I hope it's also going to react well to the grass," he said, adding that he feels "all my strengths get amplified" when he plays on grass.

"I'm going to probably push a little bit more in practice this afternoon or maybe tomorrow, just to get the body ready for the grass courts, and I hope I have no negative reactions.

"I'm pretty positive about my chances... I'm confident that somehow I'll be fine in the coming days. But of course, I want to stay injury-free. That's the most important (thing) right now."

Roger Federer says he has seen "improvement and no setbacks" since returning to the Tour in March after over a year out due to two knee operations and with his grasscourt season kicking off in Halle next week, it's "go time".

Roger Federer says he has seen "improvement and no setbacks" since returning to the Tour in March after over a year out due to two knee operations and with his grasscourt season kicking off in Halle next week, it's "go time". Federer initially eyed a return at this year's Australian Open a year after exiting the 2020 Grand Slam at the semi-final stage, but slow progress in his recovery delayed his comeback. He played his first match back at the Qatar Open but said he was targeting full fitness for the grasscourt season and wants to reach his peak by Wimbledon, where he has won eight of his 20 Grand Slam titles. "I probably would have taken the place I am today," the 39-year-old, who pulled out from the French Open last week to protect his body after a grueling third-round win, told reporters on Friday. "March was still very early days for my comeback but I just felt like it was a good time to come back. I thought that Doha actually went extremely well overall because I know my expectations were close to zero over there. So I'm happy I was able to play two competitive matches over there. "Ever since I've only seen improvement, no setbacks. After I guess the two operations I have to be extremely careful with every move I do. But now it's really gone time. This is essentially where the season really hopefully starts for me." Since pulling out of Roland Garros, Federer had his first hit on Thursday at the ATP 500 event at the German city of Halle, where he has won 10 titles. The Swiss said he had low-intensity practice for 30 minutes but felt his body had recovered from the rigors of the claycourt Grand Slam in Paris. "The knee just needs always extra care, and I hope it's also going to react well to the grass," he said, adding that he feels "all my strengths get amplified" when he plays on grass. "I'm going to probably push a little bit more in practice this afternoon or maybe tomorrow, just to get the body ready for the grass courts, and I hope I have no negative reactions. "I'm pretty positive about my chances... I'm confident that somehow I'll be fine in the coming days. But of course, I want to stay injury-free. That's the most important (thing) right now."

Tennis: It's 'go time' for Federer, 39, with favoured grasscourt season about to begin

Two-time runner-up Dominic Thiem was knocked out in the first round of the French Open by Spanish journeyman Pablo Andujar 4-6 5-7 6-3 6-4 6-4 in the first major upset of the claycourt Grand Slam on Sunday.

It first seemed that Andujar's win against 20-time Grand Slam winner Roger Federer in Geneva earlier this month would count for nothing. But Austrian Thiem's game began to unravel after a dominant start on Court Philippe Chatrier.

Thiem, who reached the final in Paris in 2018 and 2019, had never lost in the opening round at Roland Garros, but that prospect grew as Andujar went for his shots and unsettled his 27-year-old opponent.

Thiem broke back after conceding a break in the first game of the decider, but Andujar kept on piling up the pressure with deep strokes and broke again for 3-2.

The 35-year-old ranked 68th in the world then held serve throughout to claim victory after nearly four-and-a-half hours after Thiem made a total of 66 unforced errors.

Thiem, who took a break to 'reset his game' earlier this season and also battled injuries, entered the tournament short of confidence and Sunday's clash with Andujar showed he had yet to rediscover his touch even though he had reached the semi-finals at the Madrid Masters this month.

"I was not struggling at all with my motivation but the game was just not there today," he said.

"Like all the shots are missing power. They are not accurate enough. I'm moving not well enough, so everything in my game there are some percents missing."

Andujar, on the other hand, was on a roll after beating Federer on the Geneva clay.

"I believed in myself because I played well against Federer&nbsp;two weeks ago. Usually being drawn against Thiem is a bad draw," the Spaniard said.

"Winning today against a player like him is like a gift, even if he has not been at his best recently, because I'm 35 and I don't know how long I'm going to be playing for.

"Beating Roger was an even bigger gift. I feel like Father Christmas came to my home."

Two-time runner-up Dominic Thiem was knocked out in the first round of the French Open by Spanish journeyman Pablo Andujar 4-6 5-7 6-3 6-4 6-4 in the first major upset of the claycourt Grand Slam on Sunday.

Two-time runner-up Dominic Thiem was knocked out in the first round of the French Open by Spanish journeyman Pablo Andujar 4-6 5-7 6-3 6-4 6-4 in the first major upset of the claycourt Grand Slam on Sunday. It first seemed that Andujar's win against 20-time Grand Slam winner Roger Federer in Geneva earlier this month would count for nothing. But Austrian Thiem's game began to unravel after a dominant start on Court Philippe Chatrier. Thiem, who reached the final in Paris in 2018 and 2019, had never lost in the opening round at Roland Garros, but that prospect grew as Andujar went for his shots and unsettled his 27-year-old opponent. Thiem broke back after conceding a break in the first game of the decider, but Andujar kept on piling up the pressure with deep strokes and broke again for 3-2. The 35-year-old ranked 68th in the world then held serve throughout to claim victory after nearly four-and-a-half hours after Thiem made a total of 66 unforced errors. Thiem, who took a break to 'reset his game' earlier this season and also battled injuries, entered the tournament short of confidence and Sunday's clash with Andujar showed he had yet to rediscover his touch even though he had reached the semi-finals at the Madrid Masters this month. "I was not struggling at all with my motivation but the game was just not there today," he said. "Like all the shots are missing power. They are not accurate enough. I'm moving not well enough, so everything in my game there are some percents missing." Andujar, on the other hand, was on a roll after beating Federer on the Geneva clay. "I believed in myself because I played well against Federer two weeks ago. Usually being drawn against Thiem is a bad draw," the Spaniard said. "Winning today against a player like him is like a gift, even if he has not been at his best recently, because I'm 35 and I don't know how long I'm going to be playing for. "Beating Roger was an even bigger gift. I feel like Father Christmas came to my home."

Tennis: Dominic Thiem knocked out by Pablo Andujar in French Open first round

Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas is brimming with confidence and will be heading to Roland Garros this week with his best Grand Slam preparation after picking up his seventh ATP Tour title in Lyon on Sunday.

Basking in the glow of his maiden ATP Masters 1000 title last month at Monte-Carlo, the 22-year-old added the Lyon crown for his second title in 2021 and leads the 2021 season with the most wins at 33.

"I've been feeling my game well; I've been using my patterns really well," Tsitsipas told reporters. "I've been pressing a lot with my serve. Just consistent on the court, consistent with my power and the way that I attack, and the way I take&nbsp;risks.

"I think it would be considered my best (preparation) so far pre-Grand Slam and now all the attention is on next week. I love playing in Paris. I find it mesmerizing."

Patrick Mouratoglou, the longtime coach of Serena Williams, who is often seen in Tsitsipas' player box at tournaments, is pleased with the consistency displayed by the Greek.

"He's developing really well," Mouratoglou said of Tsitsipas, who is coached by his father Apostolos. "He's always been able to beat the best players," the Frenchman, who often works in an advisory role with Tsitsipas, told Reuters recently.

"He beat Rafa (Nadal) on clay several years ago already. He beat Roger at a Grand Slam, beat Novak at a Masters 1000 on hardcourt. But he was a bit up and down, and there were several reasons for that.

"And I think he's getting more and more solid. He's losing less and less. He's slowly but surely, imposing himself as a top guy who doesn't lose to guys who are ranked under. He's gained a lot of consistency in everything he is doing in his game."

Tsitsipas reached the semi-finals on the red clay at Roland Garros last year before falling to Novak Djokovic in five sets and Mouratoglou believes the two-time Australian Open semi-finalist was getting closer to a maiden major title.

"Rafa and Novak are still at the top of the game. But I think their margin is getting smaller and smaller. Several young guys can beat them now. The margin is getting thinner," Mouratoglou added.

"Every year I'm asked about Roland Garros and I answer that the only thing we don't know about Roland Garros is who Rafa is going to beat in the final.

"This year I can say Rafa is the favorite but some guys can beat him."

Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas is brimming with confidence and will be heading to Roland Garros this week with his best Grand Slam preparation after picking up his seventh ATP Tour title in Lyon on Sunday.

Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas is brimming with confidence and will be heading to Roland Garros this week with his best Grand Slam preparation after picking up his seventh ATP Tour title in Lyon on Sunday. Basking in the glow of his maiden ATP Masters 1000 title last month at Monte-Carlo, the 22-year-old added the Lyon crown for his second title in 2021 and leads the 2021 season with the most wins at 33. "I've been feeling my game well; I've been using my patterns really well," Tsitsipas told reporters. "I've been pressing a lot with my serve. Just consistent on the court, consistent with my power and the way that I attack, and the way I take risks. "I think it would be considered my best (preparation) so far pre-Grand Slam and now all the attention is on next week. I love playing in Paris. I find it mesmerizing." Patrick Mouratoglou, the longtime coach of Serena Williams, who is often seen in Tsitsipas' player box at tournaments, is pleased with the consistency displayed by the Greek. "He's developing really well," Mouratoglou said of Tsitsipas, who is coached by his father Apostolos. "He's always been able to beat the best players," the Frenchman, who often works in an advisory role with Tsitsipas, told Reuters recently. "He beat Rafa (Nadal) on clay several years ago already. He beat Roger at a Grand Slam, beat Novak at a Masters 1000 on hardcourt. But he was a bit up and down, and there were several reasons for that. "And I think he's getting more and more solid. He's losing less and less. He's slowly but surely, imposing himself as a top guy who doesn't lose to guys who are ranked under. He's gained a lot of consistency in everything he is doing in his game." Tsitsipas reached the semi-finals on the red clay at Roland Garros last year before falling to Novak Djokovic in five sets and Mouratoglou believes the two-time Australian Open semi-finalist was getting closer to a maiden major title. "Rafa and Novak are still at the top of the game. But I think their margin is getting smaller and smaller. Several young guys can beat them now. The margin is getting thinner," Mouratoglou added. "Every year I'm asked about Roland Garros and I answer that the only thing we don't know about Roland Garros is who Rafa is going to beat in the final. "This year I can say Rafa is the favorite but some guys can beat him."

Tennis: Confident Stefanos Tsitsipas heads to Paris with 'best' Slam preparation

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