Andy Murray will play in the singles at next week's Winston-Salem Open as he continues his comeback from hip surgery, tournament officials told Reuters on Thursday.

The Scot lost 6-4, 6-4 to Richard Gasquet in Cincinnati on Monday in his first singles match since January and later said he would not accept a wild card for the men's draw at the US&nbsp;Open, the year's final Grand Slam.

"Andy will be playing singles, but he will not be playing doubles," Bill Oakes, tournament director for the North Carolina event, said by telephone.

"It's amazing to have a guy who has won three Grand Slams, been ranked number one and may be the fiercest competitor coming to Winston-Salem."

The tournament starts on Sunday, and Murray, who will not be seeded, could play his first match on Monday, Oakes said, adding that he had met with Murray's team two weeks ago in Washington and talks had continued this week.

Murray will be making his first appearance in the Winston-Salem tournament, though his brother Jamie has played there.

Andy Murray will play in the singles at next week's Winston-Salem Open as he continues his comeback from hip surgery, tournament officials told Reuters on Thursday.

Andy Murray will play in the singles at next week's Winston-Salem Open as he continues his comeback from hip surgery, tournament officials told Reuters on Thursday. The Scot lost 6-4, 6-4 to Richard Gasquet in Cincinnati on Monday in his first singles match since January and later said he would not accept a wild card for the men's draw at the US Open, the year's final Grand Slam. "Andy will be playing singles, but he will not be playing doubles," Bill Oakes, tournament director for the North Carolina event, said by telephone. "It's amazing to have a guy who has won three Grand Slams, been ranked number one and may be the fiercest competitor coming to Winston-Salem." The tournament starts on Sunday, and Murray, who will not be seeded, could play his first match on Monday, Oakes said, adding that he had met with Murray's team two weeks ago in Washington and talks had continued this week. Murray will be making his first appearance in the Winston-Salem tournament, though his brother Jamie has played there.

Andy Murray to play singles in Winston-Salem next week

Rafael Nadal's Rogers Cup win in Montreal at the weekend marked a significant step for the Spaniard as he prepares for the US Open but it wasn't enough to topple Novak Djokovic at the top of the ATP rankings, released on Monday.

Nadal, who will be vying for a fourth title at Flushing Meadows, was too strong for Daniil Medvedev in Sunday's final, seeing off the Russian 6-3 6-0 to claim his 35th Masters title.

Roger Federer and Dominic Thiem stay third and fourth respectively.

Stefanos Tsitsipas, who entered the top five for the first time last week, drops two places and is leapfrogged by Kei Nishikori and Alexander Zverev.&nbsp;

Medvedev's reward for his appearance in Sunday's final was a one-place climb to eight.&nbsp;

ATP rankings as of August 12

1. Novak Djokovic (SRB) 12,325 pts

2. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 7,945

3. Roger Federer (SUI) 7,460

4. Dominic Thiem (AUT) 4,925

5. Kei Nishikori (JPN) 4,040 (+1)

6. Alexander Zverev (GER) 4,005 (+1)

7. Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE) 3,455 (-2)

8. Daniil Medvedev (RUS) 3,230 (+1)

9. Karen Khachanov (RUS) 2,890 (-1)

10. Fabio Fognini (ITA) 2,555 (+1)

11. Roberto Bautista (ESP) 2,395 (+2)

12. Juan Martin Del Potro (ARG) 2,230

13. Borna Coric (CRO) 2,195 (+1)

14. Kevin Anderson (RSA) 2,140 (-4)

15. Gaël Monfils (FRA) 2,130 (+5)

16. John Isner (USA) 2,040 (-1)

17. Nikoloz Basilashvili (GEO) 2,020

18. Marin Cilic (CRO) 1,940 (-2)

19. David Goffin (BEL) 1,815 (-1)

20. Milos Raonic (CAN) 1,810 (-1)

...

23. Stan Wawrinka (SUI) 1,670 (-1)

27. Nick Kyrgios (AUS) 1,475

Rafael Nadal's Rogers Cup win in Montreal at the weekend marked a significant step for the Spaniard as he prepares for the US Open but it wasn't enough to topple Novak Djokovic at the top of the ATP rankings, released on Monday.

Rafael Nadal's Rogers Cup win in Montreal at the weekend marked a significant step for the Spaniard as he prepares for the US Open but it wasn't enough to topple Novak Djokovic at the top of the ATP rankings, released on Monday. Nadal, who will be vying for a fourth title at Flushing Meadows, was too strong for Daniil Medvedev in Sunday's final, seeing off the Russian 6-3 6-0 to claim his 35th Masters title. Roger Federer and Dominic Thiem stay third and fourth respectively. Stefanos Tsitsipas, who entered the top five for the first time last week, drops two places and is leapfrogged by Kei Nishikori and Alexander Zverev. Medvedev's reward for his appearance in Sunday's final was a one-place climb to eight. ATP rankings as of August 12 1. Novak Djokovic (SRB) 12,325 pts 2. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 7,945 3. Roger Federer (SUI) 7,460 4. Dominic Thiem (AUT) 4,925 5. Kei Nishikori (JPN) 4,040 (+1) 6. Alexander Zverev (GER) 4,005 (+1) 7. Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE) 3,455 (-2) 8. Daniil Medvedev (RUS) 3,230 (+1) 9. Karen Khachanov (RUS) 2,890 (-1) 10. Fabio Fognini (ITA) 2,555 (+1) 11. Roberto Bautista (ESP) 2,395 (+2) 12. Juan Martin Del Potro (ARG) 2,230 13. Borna Coric (CRO) 2,195 (+1) 14. Kevin Anderson (RSA) 2,140 (-4) 15. Gaël Monfils (FRA) 2,130 (+5) 16. John Isner (USA) 2,040 (-1) 17. Nikoloz Basilashvili (GEO) 2,020 18. Marin Cilic (CRO) 1,940 (-2) 19. David Goffin (BEL) 1,815 (-1) 20. Milos Raonic (CAN) 1,810 (-1) ... 23. Stan Wawrinka (SUI) 1,670 (-1) 27. Nick Kyrgios (AUS) 1,475

Rafael Nadal stays at number two as Novak Djokovic rules rankings

Three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray moved closer to singles come back six months after hip surgery, joining brother Jamie for a doubles victory Wednesday at the ATP Washington Open.

The Murrays, partnered for the first time since the 2016 Rio Olympics, downed Frenchmen Nicolas Mahut and Edouard Roger-Vasselin 6-4, 6-7 (7/9), 10-5 to reach the last eight at the US Open tune-up event.

"The level of tennis I thought was really good," Andy Murray said. "It felt like there were some good points and quick reactions out there."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/andy-murray-closer-than-he-thought-to-singles-return-239473">Andy Murray</a> is practising singles and playing doubles as the former world number one, now ranked 222, continues his fightback from right hip surgery in January.

The 32 year old Scotsman feared he could be forced into retirement before the operation. He returned to the court in June but only in doubles while he rehabilitates.

"I have no pain," Murray said. "It's not restricting me in any of the shots that I'm hitting. I'm still maybe a little bit slow. I'm hoping that's something that comes back with time."

Murray departed Washington in tears from pain and frustration last year after a rain-delayed 3:00 am singles victory that led him to withdraw.

"I'm in a much better place than I was last year. Physically, I just feel so much better," Murray said.&nbsp;

"I didn't know how much more I was going to be playing after here last year. To come back and be competing and be pain-free is brilliant."

The British duo trailed 5-2 in the decisive super-tiebreaker but steamrolled back by taking the last eight points, with Jamie Murray's service winner securing the victory.

It was Andy who began the rally with a backhand winner and added backhand volley and drop volley winners on the two penultimate points.

Murray declared Monday his hip has responded better than expected and he was "quite close" to a singles comeback, perhaps as soon as Cincinnati in two weeks.

That would be only two weeks ahead of the US Open, with Murray also saying if he didn't play Cincinnati he would likely wait until after the US Open, cautious of pushing his luck untested in best of five set matches.

Murray, who won Grand Slam titles at the 2012 US Open and in 2013 and 2016 at Wimbledon, most recently played singles at the Australian Open in January, losing a first round five setter to Spaniard Roberto Bautista Agut.

The Murrays, who helped Britain win the 2015 Davis Cup, broke the French duo in the final game to claim the first set, then outlasted them to the finish after one hour and 51 minutes.

They will play for a semi-final spot against third seeds Michael Venus of New Zealand and Raven Klaasen of South Africa.

Three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray moved closer to singles come back six months after hip surgery, joining brother Jamie for a doubles victory Wednesday at the ATP Washington Open.

Three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray moved closer to singles come back six months after hip surgery, joining brother Jamie for a doubles victory Wednesday at the ATP Washington Open. The Murrays, partnered for the first time since the 2016 Rio Olympics, downed Frenchmen Nicolas Mahut and Edouard Roger-Vasselin 6-4, 6-7 (7/9), 10-5 to reach the last eight at the US Open tune-up event. "The level of tennis I thought was really good," Andy Murray said. "It felt like there were some good points and quick reactions out there." Andy Murray is practising singles and playing doubles as the former world number one, now ranked 222, continues his fightback from right hip surgery in January. The 32 year old Scotsman feared he could be forced into retirement before the operation. He returned to the court in June but only in doubles while he rehabilitates. "I have no pain," Murray said. "It's not restricting me in any of the shots that I'm hitting. I'm still maybe a little bit slow. I'm hoping that's something that comes back with time." Murray departed Washington in tears from pain and frustration last year after a rain-delayed 3:00 am singles victory that led him to withdraw. "I'm in a much better place than I was last year. Physically, I just feel so much better," Murray said. "I didn't know how much more I was going to be playing after here last year. To come back and be competing and be pain-free is brilliant." The British duo trailed 5-2 in the decisive super-tiebreaker but steamrolled back by taking the last eight points, with Jamie Murray's service winner securing the victory. It was Andy who began the rally with a backhand winner and added backhand volley and drop volley winners on the two penultimate points. Murray declared Monday his hip has responded better than expected and he was "quite close" to a singles comeback, perhaps as soon as Cincinnati in two weeks. That would be only two weeks ahead of the US Open, with Murray also saying if he didn't play Cincinnati he would likely wait until after the US Open, cautious of pushing his luck untested in best of five set matches. Murray, who won Grand Slam titles at the 2012 US Open and in 2013 and 2016 at Wimbledon, most recently played singles at the Australian Open in January, losing a first round five setter to Spaniard Roberto Bautista Agut. The Murrays, who helped Britain win the 2015 Davis Cup, broke the French duo in the final game to claim the first set, then outlasted them to the finish after one hour and 51 minutes. They will play for a semi-final spot against third seeds Michael Venus of New Zealand and Raven Klaasen of South Africa.

Andy Murray reunites with brother Jamie for doubles win

Former world number one Andy Murray is considering returning to singles action at Cincinnati next month, saying he is "closer than he thought" to be ready.

The 32-year-old has not played singles since losing in the first round of the Australian Open in January to Spain's Roberto Bautista Agut, after which he underwent hip resurfacing surgery in a bid to salvage his career.

He returned to doubles action at Queen's Club this year, winning the title with Spain's Feliciano Lopez, and also played men's doubles with Frenchman Pierre-Hugues Herbert and mixed with Serena Williams at Wimbledon.

Three-time Grand Slam champion Murray had previously said it was extremely unlikely he would be ready to play singles at the US Open but now believes a return on the Cincinnati hardcourts in two weeks' time is possible.

"I'm closer than I thought," Murray said at the Citi Open in Washington where he is playing doubles with brother Jamie.

"Best case scenario probably would be Cincinnati," he said.

"And then if I wasn't able to play in Cincinnati, there's a good chance I would probably wait until after New York, because I wouldn't want my first tournament, either, to be playing best-of-five sets."

Murray said he is practising singles in Washington and is also lined up to play doubles at the Rogers Cup next week in Toronto with Lopez.

"In terms of moving and feeling and waking up the next day, I'm feeling good," Murray said. "I'm quite close but there's stuff that would need to get better.

"I could (play singles), but to get where I would want to be I'd have to get back in the gym and get my cardio better."

Former world number one Andy Murray is considering returning to singles action at Cincinnati next month, saying he is "closer than he thought" to be ready. The 32-year-old has not played singles since losing in the first round of the Australian Open in January to Spain's Roberto Bautista Agut, after which he underwent hip resurfacing surgery in a bid to salvage his career.

Former world number one Andy Murray is considering returning to singles action at Cincinnati next month, saying he is "closer than he thought" to be ready. The 32-year-old has not played singles since losing in the first round of the Australian Open in January to Spain's Roberto Bautista Agut, after which he underwent hip resurfacing surgery in a bid to salvage his career. He returned to doubles action at Queen's Club this year, winning the title with Spain's Feliciano Lopez, and also played men's doubles with Frenchman Pierre-Hugues Herbert and mixed with Serena Williams at Wimbledon. Three-time Grand Slam champion Murray had previously said it was extremely unlikely he would be ready to play singles at the US Open but now believes a return on the Cincinnati hardcourts in two weeks' time is possible. "I'm closer than I thought," Murray said at the Citi Open in Washington where he is playing doubles with brother Jamie. "Best case scenario probably would be Cincinnati," he said. "And then if I wasn't able to play in Cincinnati, there's a good chance I would probably wait until after New York, because I wouldn't want my first tournament, either, to be playing best-of-five sets." Murray said he is practising singles in Washington and is also lined up to play doubles at the Rogers Cup next week in Toronto with Lopez. "In terms of moving and feeling and waking up the next day, I'm feeling good," Murray said. "I'm quite close but there's stuff that would need to get better. "I could (play singles), but to get where I would want to be I'd have to get back in the gym and get my cardio better."

Andy Murray closer than he thought to singles return

Despite winning the women's singles title at Wimbledon, Simona Halep is placed at the number fourth position women's world rankings, which was released on Monday.&nbsp;

The top order of the rankings was unchanged with Ashleigh Barty of Australia at number one after leading players took the week off post-Wimbledon.&nbsp;

US Open and Australian Open winner Naomi Osaka of Japan is second with Karolina Pliskova of the Czech Republic third. &nbsp;

Kiki Bertens of the Netherlands rounds out the top five.

Petra Kvitova is at number six and Elina Svitolina at seven.&nbsp;

With 3802 Sloane Stephens of the United States is at number eight position and this year's Wimbledon's runner-up Serena Williams is at the ninth spot.&nbsp;

Aryna Sabalenka is at tenth spot with 3365 points.&nbsp;

Watch: Halep presents Wimbledon trophy to fans in Romania

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Latest WTA rankins released Monday:

1. Ashleigh Barty (AUS) 6605 pts 
2. Naomi Osaka (JAP) 6257 
3. Karolina Pliskova (CZE) 6055 
4. Simona Halep (ROU) 5933 
5. Kiki Bertens (NED) 5130 
6. Petra Kvitova (CZE) 4785 
7. Elina Svitolina (UKR) 4638 
8. Sloane Stephens (USA) 3802 
9. Serena Williams (USA) 3411 
10. Aryna Sabalenka (BLR) 3365 
11. Anastasija Sevastova (LAT) 3136 
12. Belinda Bencic (SUI) 2963 
13. Angelique Kerber (GER) 2875 
14. Qiang Wang (CHN) 2872 
15. Johanna Konta (GBR) 2790 
16. Marketa Vondrousova (CZE) 2762 
17. Madison Keys (USA) 2555 
18. Caroline Wozniacki (SUI) 2478 
19. Anett Kontaveit (EST) 2335 
20. Elise Mertens(BEL) 2305 (+1)

Despite winning the women's singles title at Wimbledon, Simona Halep is placed at the number fourth position women's world rankings, which was released on Monday.

Despite winning the women's singles title at Wimbledon, Simona Halep is placed at the number fourth position women's world rankings, which was released on Monday. The top order of the rankings was unchanged with Ashleigh Barty of Australia at number one after leading players took the week off post-Wimbledon. US Open and Australian Open winner Naomi Osaka of Japan is second with Karolina Pliskova of the Czech Republic third. Kiki Bertens of the Netherlands rounds out the top five. Petra Kvitova is at number six and Elina Svitolina at seven. With 3802 Sloane Stephens of the United States is at number eight position and this year's Wimbledon's runner-up Serena Williams is at the ninth spot. Aryna Sabalenka is at tenth spot with 3365 points. Watch: Halep presents Wimbledon trophy to fans in Romania × Latest WTA rankins released Monday: 1. Ashleigh Barty (AUS) 6605 pts 2. Naomi Osaka (JAP) 6257 3. Karolina Pliskova (CZE) 6055 4. Simona Halep (ROU) 5933 5. Kiki Bertens (NED) 5130 6. Petra Kvitova (CZE) 4785 7. Elina Svitolina (UKR) 4638 8. Sloane Stephens (USA) 3802 9. Serena Williams (USA) 3411 10. Aryna Sabalenka (BLR) 3365 11. Anastasija Sevastova (LAT) 3136 12. Belinda Bencic (SUI) 2963 13. Angelique Kerber (GER) 2875 14. Qiang Wang (CHN) 2872 15. Johanna Konta (GBR) 2790 16. Marketa Vondrousova (CZE) 2762 17. Madison Keys (USA) 2555 18. Caroline Wozniacki (SUI) 2478 19. Anett Kontaveit (EST) 2335 20. Elise Mertens(BEL) 2305 (+1)

Rankings unchanged for top women post-Wimbledon

Australian Bernard Tomic's appeal to overturn a fine for not playing to "required professional standards" at Wimbledon earlier this month has been denied in a stinging rebuke by the Grand Slam board.

Tomic lost his first-round match 6-2, 6-1, 6-4 to France's Jo-Wilfried Tsonga at Wimbledon and was fined his entire winnings of $56,241 after organisers ruled he had put in minimal effort in the 58-minute defeat.

The 26-year-old Tomic appealed the decision, citing the fact he was unwell before the match, while Tsonga added that he felt his victory had been devalued.

The board, however, refused to overturn their original decision and heavily criticised Tomic's attitude to tennis.

"A review of your historical record of misconduct at Grand Slams, never mind elsewhere, provides little justification for an adjustment," board director Bill Babcock wrote in the decision letter that was published by the New York Times.

"In your case, Bernard, I am sure you would agree there is no historical evidence to give comfort to the theory that you can reform your behaviour."

Babcock added that if Tomic goes without a sanction in his next eight Grand Slam events then he would be refunded 25 per cent of the fine.

"Admittedly, I am sceptical that you can achieve this reform of Grand Slam on-court behaviour," Babcock added. "Many others, no doubt, would be even more than just sceptical.

"Good luck and I hope to be pleasantly surprised in the future by your successful reform."

Tomic, however, said he would appeal the decision further.

"I don't care about this 25 per cent; I care about the right thing for players in the future," he told the newspaper.

This year's tournament was not the first time Tomic has run afoul of tennis officialdom.

He was nicknamed 'Tomic the Tank Engine' after accusations he 'tanked' -- or failed to try his best -- in a loss to Andy Roddick at the 2012 U.S. Open.

Tomic also said after his first round loss at Wimbledon in 2017 that he was 'bored' during the match.

He has also been periodically suspended from Australia's Davis Cup team over the last five years for what Tennis Australia have called "ongoing disrespect".

Australian Bernard Tomic's appeal to overturn a fine for not playing to "required professional standards" at Wimbledon earlier this month has been denied in a stinging rebuke by the Grand Slam board.

Australian Bernard Tomic's appeal to overturn a fine for not playing to "required professional standards" at Wimbledon earlier this month has been denied in a stinging rebuke by the Grand Slam board. Tomic lost his first-round match 6-2, 6-1, 6-4 to France's Jo-Wilfried Tsonga at Wimbledon and was fined his entire winnings of $56,241 after organisers ruled he had put in minimal effort in the 58-minute defeat. The 26-year-old Tomic appealed the decision, citing the fact he was unwell before the match, while Tsonga added that he felt his victory had been devalued. The board, however, refused to overturn their original decision and heavily criticised Tomic's attitude to tennis. "A review of your historical record of misconduct at Grand Slams, never mind elsewhere, provides little justification for an adjustment," board director Bill Babcock wrote in the decision letter that was published by the New York Times. "In your case, Bernard, I am sure you would agree there is no historical evidence to give comfort to the theory that you can reform your behaviour." Babcock added that if Tomic goes without a sanction in his next eight Grand Slam events then he would be refunded 25 per cent of the fine. "Admittedly, I am sceptical that you can achieve this reform of Grand Slam on-court behaviour," Babcock added. "Many others, no doubt, would be even more than just sceptical. "Good luck and I hope to be pleasantly surprised in the future by your successful reform." Tomic, however, said he would appeal the decision further. "I don't care about this 25 per cent; I care about the right thing for players in the future," he told the newspaper. This year's tournament was not the first time Tomic has run afoul of tennis officialdom. He was nicknamed 'Tomic the Tank Engine' after accusations he 'tanked' -- or failed to try his best -- in a loss to Andy Roddick at the 2012 U.S. Open. Tomic also said after his first round loss at Wimbledon in 2017 that he was 'bored' during the match. He has also been periodically suspended from Australia's Davis Cup team over the last five years for what Tennis Australia have called "ongoing disrespect".

Bernard Tomic's appeal against fine rejected, receives stinging rebuke

Novak Djokovic admitted his epic, record-breaking <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-defeats-roger-federer-to-win-wimbledon-title-235964">Wimbledon final triumph over Roger Federer</a> on Sunday was the "toughest mentally" he had ever endured.

He also revealed he was able to turn the overwhelmingly pro-Federer, 14,000-strong Centre Court crowd in his favour by training his mind.

"When the crowd is chanting 'Roger' I hear 'Novak'," said the Serb.

The world number one saved two match points to clinch a fifth Wimbledon title and 16th major, shattering Federer's bid to become the oldest Grand Slam champion in the longest final ever played at the tournament.

Despite being outplayed by the 37-year-old Swiss for large parts of the knife-edge encounter, the top seed emerged victorious 7-6 (7/5), 1-6, 7-6 (7/4), 4-6, 13-12 (7/3).

At 4 hours and 57 minutes, it was the longest Wimbledon final ever played and settled by a final set tiebreak for the first time.

Djokovic is the first man in 71 years to win the title from match points down.

"It was probably the most demanding, mentally, match I was ever part of," said the 32-year-old Djokovic.

"I had the most physically demanding match against (Rafael) Nadal in the final of Australia that went almost six hours (in 2012).

"But mentally this was a different level, because of everything."&nbsp;

'Thrilled, overjoyed'

"I'm thrilled and overjoyed with emotions to be sitting here in front of you as a winner but I was one shot away from losing the match. It could have gone easily his way."

Djokovic saved the match points in the 16th game of the deciding set, which ran for over two hours and was settled by a 12-12 tiebreak for the first time in a singles match at the tournament.

It was a display of stunning mental fortitude by Djokovic.

However, he has been in similar predicaments in the past against Federer -- saving two match points in both of his semi-final victories over the Swiss at the 2010 and 2011 US Opens.

"I just try to never lose self-belief, just stay calm, just focus on trying to get the ball back, return, which wasn't serving me very well today.

"But in the most important moments, all three tiebreaks I guess, if I can say so, I found my best game."

Djokovic also insisted he had pictured how the final would play out, appreciating that Federer was, as always, the sentimental favourite.

"I like to transmutate it in a way: When the crowd is chanting 'Roger' I hear 'Novak'. It sounds silly, but it is like that. I try to convince myself that it's like that," he said.

Djokovic is now just two Slams behind Rafael Nadal and four back from Federer on the all-time list.

He is also younger than both of his great rivals.

But on Sunday, he was off the pace for large parts of the final, only carving out his first break points in the eighth game of the fourth set.

Federer won more points in the match with 218 to 204, broke serve seven times compared to three, hit 25 aces to 10 and 94 winners to Djokovic's 54.

"I thought I could have played better. But the one thing that probably allowed me to come back and save match points and win this match was the mental stability in those moments," admitted the champion.

"I guess that all of these things combined in a courageous effort.

"You have to keep reminding yourself that you're there for a reason and that you are better than the other guy."

Novak Djokovic admitted his epic, record-breaking Wimbledon final triumph over Roger Federer on Sunday was the "toughest mentally" he had ever endured. He also revealed he was able to turn the overwhelmingly pro-Federer, 14,000-strong Centre Court crowd in his favour by training his mind.

Novak Djokovic admitted his epic, record-breaking Wimbledon final triumph over Roger Federer on Sunday was the "toughest mentally" he had ever endured. He also revealed he was able to turn the overwhelmingly pro-Federer, 14,000-strong Centre Court crowd in his favour by training his mind. "When the crowd is chanting 'Roger' I hear 'Novak'," said the Serb. The world number one saved two match points to clinch a fifth Wimbledon title and 16th major, shattering Federer's bid to become the oldest Grand Slam champion in the longest final ever played at the tournament. Despite being outplayed by the 37-year-old Swiss for large parts of the knife-edge encounter, the top seed emerged victorious 7-6 (7/5), 1-6, 7-6 (7/4), 4-6, 13-12 (7/3). At 4 hours and 57 minutes, it was the longest Wimbledon final ever played and settled by a final set tiebreak for the first time. Djokovic is the first man in 71 years to win the title from match points down. "It was probably the most demanding, mentally, match I was ever part of," said the 32-year-old Djokovic. "I had the most physically demanding match against (Rafael) Nadal in the final of Australia that went almost six hours (in 2012). "But mentally this was a different level, because of everything." 'Thrilled, overjoyed' "I'm thrilled and overjoyed with emotions to be sitting here in front of you as a winner but I was one shot away from losing the match. It could have gone easily his way." Djokovic saved the match points in the 16th game of the deciding set, which ran for over two hours and was settled by a 12-12 tiebreak for the first time in a singles match at the tournament. It was a display of stunning mental fortitude by Djokovic. However, he has been in similar predicaments in the past against Federer -- saving two match points in both of his semi-final victories over the Swiss at the 2010 and 2011 US Opens. "I just try to never lose self-belief, just stay calm, just focus on trying to get the ball back, return, which wasn't serving me very well today. "But in the most important moments, all three tiebreaks I guess, if I can say so, I found my best game." Djokovic also insisted he had pictured how the final would play out, appreciating that Federer was, as always, the sentimental favourite. "I like to transmutate it in a way: When the crowd is chanting 'Roger' I hear 'Novak'. It sounds silly, but it is like that. I try to convince myself that it's like that," he said. Djokovic is now just two Slams behind Rafael Nadal and four back from Federer on the all-time list. He is also younger than both of his great rivals. But on Sunday, he was off the pace for large parts of the final, only carving out his first break points in the eighth game of the fourth set. Federer won more points in the match with 218 to 204, broke serve seven times compared to three, hit 25 aces to 10 and 94 winners to Djokovic's 54. "I thought I could have played better. But the one thing that probably allowed me to come back and save match points and win this match was the mental stability in those moments," admitted the champion. "I guess that all of these things combined in a courageous effort. "You have to keep reminding yourself that you're there for a reason and that you are better than the other guy."

When they chant Roger, I hear Novak: Novak Djokovic admits 'toughest' Wimbledon win

Novak&nbsp;Djokovic has vowed to convince fans that he is not public enemy number one even if he surpasses people's champion Roger Federer as the greatest Grand Slam title winner of all time.

The world number one saved two match points to clinch a fifth Wimbledon title and 16th major on Sunday, shattering Federer's bid to become the oldest Grand Slam champion in the longest final ever contested at the tournament.

Despite being outplayed by the 37-year-old Swiss for large parts of the knife-edge encounter, the top seed emerged victorious 7-6 (7/5), 1-6, 7-6 (7/4), 4-6, 13-12 (7/3).

At four hours and 57 minutes, it was the longest Wimbledon final and the first to be settled by a final set tiebreak.

Djokovic is the first man in 71 years to win the title from match points down, saving two in the 16th game of the deciding set.

His major title tally is now just two behind Rafael Nadal and four off the all-time men's Grand Slam record of 20 held by Federer.

He has time on his side, being a year younger than Nadal and more than five years younger than the legendary Swiss.

After Sunday's epic triumph, Djokovic revealed he was able to turn the overwhelmingly pro-Federer, 14,000-strong Centre Court crowd in his favour by training his mind.

'They chant Roger, I hear&nbsp;Novak'

"I like to transmutate it in a way: When the crowd is chanting 'Roger' I hear 'Novak'," said the 32-year-old Djokovic.

"It sounds silly, but it is like that."

Djokovic has spent the best part of his career in pursuit of Nadal and Federer and attempting to seduce fans sceptical of his character.

For many he is viewed as too intense, too insincere, too calculating and prone to fads.

Federer and Nadal, in comparison, are treated almost reverentially.

"It's hard to not be aware of the crowd. You have that kind of electric atmosphere, that kind of noise," said Djokovic.

"Of course, if you have the majority of the crowd on your side, it helps. When you don't, then you have to find it within, I guess."

Djokovic insists he won't get distracted by the pursuit of Federer's record haul.

"Whether I'm going to be able to do it or not, I don't know.&nbsp;

"I'm not really looking at age as a restriction of any kind for me at least. What I said on the court, I really meant it: Roger really inspires me with his effort at his age.&nbsp;

"It just depends how long I'm going to play, whether I'm going to have a chance to make historic No. 1 or Slams."

When asked if he sees himself still playing at 37, Djokovic said the motivation to be treated with the same respect is strong.

Eventually, hearing screams of "Let's go,&nbsp;Novak, let's go" will be more than welcome.

"Hopefully in five years' time I can be hearing the same chants."

Most consistent of 'Big Three'

Djokovic is by far the most consistent of the 'Big Three' at the Slams.

Since the start of 2015, he has won nine of the 19 majors played with Nadal winning four and Federer three.

The other three have been split between Stan Wawrinka (two) and Andy Murray (one).

On Sunday, Djokovic saved match points in the 16th game of the deciding set, which ran for over two hours and was settled by a 12-12 tiebreak for the first time in a singles match at the tournament.

It was another display of stunning mental fortitude.

He has been in similar predicaments in the past against Federer -- saving two match points in both of his semi-final victories over the Swiss at the 2010 and 2011 US Opens.

"I just try to never lose self-belief, just stay calm, just focus on trying to get the ball back, return, which wasn't serving me very well today.

"But in the most important moments, all three tiebreaks I guess, I found my best game."

He was off the pace for large parts of the final, only carving out his first break points in the eighth game of the fourth set.

Federer won more points in the match with 218 to 204, broke serve seven times compared to three, hit 25 aces to 10 and 94 winners to Djokovic's 54.

"I thought I could have played better. But the one thing that probably allowed me to come back and save match points and win this match was the mental stability," admitted the champion.

Novak Djokovic has vowed to convince fans that he is not public enemy number one even if he surpasses people's champion Roger Federer as the greatest Grand Slam title winner of all time.

Novak Djokovic has vowed to convince fans that he is not public enemy number one even if he surpasses people's champion Roger Federer as the greatest Grand Slam title winner of all time. The world number one saved two match points to clinch a fifth Wimbledon title and 16th major on Sunday, shattering Federer's bid to become the oldest Grand Slam champion in the longest final ever contested at the tournament. Despite being outplayed by the 37-year-old Swiss for large parts of the knife-edge encounter, the top seed emerged victorious 7-6 (7/5), 1-6, 7-6 (7/4), 4-6, 13-12 (7/3). At four hours and 57 minutes, it was the longest Wimbledon final and the first to be settled by a final set tiebreak. Djokovic is the first man in 71 years to win the title from match points down, saving two in the 16th game of the deciding set. His major title tally is now just two behind Rafael Nadal and four off the all-time men's Grand Slam record of 20 held by Federer. He has time on his side, being a year younger than Nadal and more than five years younger than the legendary Swiss. After Sunday's epic triumph, Djokovic revealed he was able to turn the overwhelmingly pro-Federer, 14,000-strong Centre Court crowd in his favour by training his mind. 'They chant Roger, I hear Novak' "I like to transmutate it in a way: When the crowd is chanting 'Roger' I hear 'Novak'," said the 32-year-old Djokovic. "It sounds silly, but it is like that." Djokovic has spent the best part of his career in pursuit of Nadal and Federer and attempting to seduce fans sceptical of his character. For many he is viewed as too intense, too insincere, too calculating and prone to fads. Federer and Nadal, in comparison, are treated almost reverentially. "It's hard to not be aware of the crowd. You have that kind of electric atmosphere, that kind of noise," said Djokovic. "Of course, if you have the majority of the crowd on your side, it helps. When you don't, then you have to find it within, I guess." Djokovic insists he won't get distracted by the pursuit of Federer's record haul. "Whether I'm going to be able to do it or not, I don't know. "I'm not really looking at age as a restriction of any kind for me at least. What I said on the court, I really meant it: Roger really inspires me with his effort at his age. "It just depends how long I'm going to play, whether I'm going to have a chance to make historic No. 1 or Slams." When asked if he sees himself still playing at 37, Djokovic said the motivation to be treated with the same respect is strong. Eventually, hearing screams of "Let's go, Novak, let's go" will be more than welcome. "Hopefully in five years' time I can be hearing the same chants." Most consistent of 'Big Three' Djokovic is by far the most consistent of the 'Big Three' at the Slams. Since the start of 2015, he has won nine of the 19 majors played with Nadal winning four and Federer three. The other three have been split between Stan Wawrinka (two) and Andy Murray (one). On Sunday, Djokovic saved match points in the 16th game of the deciding set, which ran for over two hours and was settled by a 12-12 tiebreak for the first time in a singles match at the tournament. It was another display of stunning mental fortitude. He has been in similar predicaments in the past against Federer -- saving two match points in both of his semi-final victories over the Swiss at the 2010 and 2011 US Opens. "I just try to never lose self-belief, just stay calm, just focus on trying to get the ball back, return, which wasn't serving me very well today. "But in the most important moments, all three tiebreaks I guess, I found my best game." He was off the pace for large parts of the final, only carving out his first break points in the eighth game of the fourth set. Federer won more points in the match with 218 to 204, broke serve seven times compared to three, hit 25 aces to 10 and 94 winners to Djokovic's 54. "I thought I could have played better. But the one thing that probably allowed me to come back and save match points and win this match was the mental stability," admitted the champion.

Novak Djokovic vows to win fans' love with Roger Federer record in view

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/simona-halep-defeats-serena-william-to-win-womens-singles-title-235577">Simona&nbsp;Halep</a> believes that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/equality-is-my-cause-serena-williams-puts-legend-billie-jean-king-in-her-place-235601">Serena Williams</a> has lost the intimidation factor that once condemned rivals to defeat even before they set foot on court.

Halep handed the American legend <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/simona-halep-beats-serena-williams-to-win-wimbledon-singles-title-235579">a 6-2, 6-2 rout in the Wimbledon final</a> on Saturday to become the first Romanian to win a singles title at the All England Club.

The 56-minute dissection of the Williams playbook was the 23-time Slam winner's most lopsided loss in a major final.

With her 38th birthday fast approaching, her dream of matching Margaret Court's all-time mark of 24 majors seems as far away as it has ever been.

"I have always been intimidated a little bit when I faced Serena," admitted 27-year-old Halep.

"She's an inspiration for everyone and the model for everyone. But today I decided before the match that I'm going to focus on myself and on the final of Grand Slam, not on her.&nbsp;

"That's why I was able to play my best, to be relaxed, and to be able to be positive and confident against her."

It was a tactic which worked to perfection for the world number seven who had lost nine of her previous 10 meetings with Williams.

Her only win had come at the season-ending WTA Finals in Singapore in 2014.

For Halep, it was a second Grand Slam title after breaking her duck at the 2018 French Open which had followed three losses in title matches at the Slams.

On Saturday, she committed just three unforced errors; Williams was undone by 26.

"I'm very sure that was the best match of my life," said Halep.

The challenge now is for Halep to keep backing it up.

She has been a runner-up at the Australian Open, losing the 2018 final to Caroline Wozniacki.

Until this year, she had never got beyond the semi-finals at Wimbledon while a last-four run in 2015 remains her best performance at the US Open.

When she won the 2018 French Open, she exited Wimbledon in the third round and the US Open at the first hurdle.

"The finals I lost in the past helped me for sure to be different when I face this moment.

"It's never easy to play a Grand Slam final. You can get intimidated by the moment. You can get too nervous.&nbsp;

"I have learned that it's a normal match, not thinking that much about the trophy, just going there and try to be the best as you can. So I did that.&nbsp;

"I said that every time I would play a final of a Grand Slam, I will do exactly the same thing. So today I did it."

Halep, who is now looking forward to returning to the All England Club as a life member "to have dinner, have lunch, play a little bit of tennis" joked that her victory on Saturday was almost by royal command.

Up in the Royal Box was Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, Halep's favourite.

"It was an honour to play in front of her. I had the chance to meet her after the match. She's very kind, very nice.&nbsp;

"Yeah, it was an extra boost when I saw all of them there, the Royal family."

Simona Halep believes that Serena Williams has lost the intimidation factor that once condemned rivals to defeat even before they set foot on court. Halep handed the American legend a 6-2, 6-2 rout in the Wimbledon final on Saturday to become the first Romanian to win a singles title at the All England Club.

Simona Halep believes that Serena Williams has lost the intimidation factor that once condemned rivals to defeat even before they set foot on court. Halep handed the American legend a 6-2, 6-2 rout in the Wimbledon final on Saturday to become the first Romanian to win a singles title at the All England Club. The 56-minute dissection of the Williams playbook was the 23-time Slam winner's most lopsided loss in a major final. With her 38th birthday fast approaching, her dream of matching Margaret Court's all-time mark of 24 majors seems as far away as it has ever been. "I have always been intimidated a little bit when I faced Serena," admitted 27-year-old Halep. "She's an inspiration for everyone and the model for everyone. But today I decided before the match that I'm going to focus on myself and on the final of Grand Slam, not on her. "That's why I was able to play my best, to be relaxed, and to be able to be positive and confident against her." It was a tactic which worked to perfection for the world number seven who had lost nine of her previous 10 meetings with Williams. Her only win had come at the season-ending WTA Finals in Singapore in 2014. For Halep, it was a second Grand Slam title after breaking her duck at the 2018 French Open which had followed three losses in title matches at the Slams. On Saturday, she committed just three unforced errors; Williams was undone by 26. "I'm very sure that was the best match of my life," said Halep. The challenge now is for Halep to keep backing it up. She has been a runner-up at the Australian Open, losing the 2018 final to Caroline Wozniacki. Until this year, she had never got beyond the semi-finals at Wimbledon while a last-four run in 2015 remains her best performance at the US Open. When she won the 2018 French Open, she exited Wimbledon in the third round and the US Open at the first hurdle. "The finals I lost in the past helped me for sure to be different when I face this moment. "It's never easy to play a Grand Slam final. You can get intimidated by the moment. You can get too nervous. "I have learned that it's a normal match, not thinking that much about the trophy, just going there and try to be the best as you can. So I did that. "I said that every time I would play a final of a Grand Slam, I will do exactly the same thing. So today I did it." Halep, who is now looking forward to returning to the All England Club as a life member "to have dinner, have lunch, play a little bit of tennis" joked that her victory on Saturday was almost by royal command. Up in the Royal Box was Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, Halep's favourite. "It was an honour to play in front of her. I had the chance to meet her after the match. She's very kind, very nice. "Yeah, it was an extra boost when I saw all of them there, the Royal family."

Serena Williams has lost 'intimidation' factor, says Simona Halep

After winning the Wimbledon title, former world number one Simona Halep said that it was her mother's dream for her.&nbsp;

Halep&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/simona-halep-beats-serena-williams-to-win-wimbledon-singles-title-235579">defeated Serena 6-2, 6-2</a> in the final showdown to become the first Romanian woman to win in the Wimbledon title.&nbsp;

Previously the only other Romanian to reach the Wimbledon final was Ilie Nastase who finished runner-up in 1972 and 1976.&nbsp;

"It was my Mum’s dream for me. My mom said when I was 10 that if I want to do something in tennis I have to play in the final at Wimbledon, so today the day came," said Halep after winning the title.&nbsp;

"I had lots of nerves, my stomach wasn't very well.&nbsp;"I never played a better match," said Halep.

"I said at the start of the tournament that one of my motivations was to win and become a lifetime member of the club," she&nbsp;added.&nbsp;

It's Halep's second major title after 2018 French Open triumph.&nbsp;

The win has denied the 37-year-old's&nbsp;attempt to equal Margaret Court's all-time record for major wins.&nbsp;

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Hail Halep 🇷🇴 
 
The Romanian becomes our new champion after defeating Serena Williams 6-2, 6-2 with a magical performance <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Wimbledon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Wimbledon</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JoinTheStory?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JoinTheStory</a> <a href="https://t.co/wkKcGAl1Ny">pic.twitter.com/wkKcGAl1Ny</a>
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Williams was undone by 26 unforced errors to Halep's two in a personal horror show on Centre Court.

"She played out of her mind," said Williams. "I was like a deer in headlights."

Williams, who has now lost three Grand Slam finals since returning to the Tour last March following the birth of daughter Olympia in September 2017, was short of ideas and the match ended after 56 minutes when she biffed a forehand into the net -- her 26th unforced error.&nbsp;

After winning the Wimbledon title, former world number one Simona Halep said that it was her mother's dream for her. Halep defeated Serena 6-2, 6-2 in the final showdown to become the first Romanian woman to win in the Wimbledon title.

After winning the Wimbledon title, former world number one Simona Halep said that it was her mother's dream for her. Halep defeated Serena 6-2, 6-2 in the final showdown to become the first Romanian woman to win in the Wimbledon title. Previously the only other Romanian to reach the Wimbledon final was Ilie Nastase who finished runner-up in 1972 and 1976. "It was my Mum’s dream for me. My mom said when I was 10 that if I want to do something in tennis I have to play in the final at Wimbledon, so today the day came," said Halep after winning the title. "I had lots of nerves, my stomach wasn't very well. "I never played a better match," said Halep. "I said at the start of the tournament that one of my motivations was to win and become a lifetime member of the club," she added. It's Halep's second major title after 2018 French Open triumph. The win has denied the 37-year-old's attempt to equal Margaret Court's all-time record for major wins. Hail Halep 🇷🇴 The Romanian becomes our new champion after defeating Serena Williams 6-2, 6-2 with a magical performance #Wimbledon | #JoinTheStory pic.twitter.com/wkKcGAl1Ny — Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 13, 2019 × Williams was undone by 26 unforced errors to Halep's two in a personal horror show on Centre Court. "She played out of her mind," said Williams. "I was like a deer in headlights." Williams, who has now lost three Grand Slam finals since returning to the Tour last March following the birth of daughter Olympia in September 2017, was short of ideas and the match ended after 56 minutes when she biffed a forehand into the net -- her 26th unforced error.

'It was my mum’s dream,' says Simona Halep after winning Wimbledon title

Serena Williams delivered a stinging rebuke to fellow tennis legend Billie Jean King who said she should focus on tennis and stop behaving like a celebrity and fighting for equality.

King -- who was no stranger to fighting for equality for women players when she was starting out -- may feel justified after Williams was played off the court in the Wimbledon final on Saturday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/simona-halep-beats-serena-williams-to-win-wimbledon-singles-title-235579">She was beaten 6-2, 6-2</a> in less than an hour by Simona Halep, who had lost on nine of the 10 previous occasions she had played the American.

King had said that running a business, looking after a child and battling for equality for women and ethnic minorities, could largely all be dealt with by her staff while she focused on tennis for a couple of years.

The 75-year-old told the BBC earlier in the tournament that Williams should give up being a celebrity for a year: "Just stop all this insanity." &nbsp;

Williams, though, hit back on Saturday.

"The day I stop fighting for equality and for people that look like you and me will be the day I'm in my grave," said the 37-year-old in response to the question.

On the court, Saturday's blowout was the third time in the past year that Williams has failed to take the chance to equal Australian Margaret Court's Grand Slam titles record of 24 -- her stated goal on returning from giving birth to her daughter Olympia.

Losses to Angelique Kerber in last year's Wimbledon final and then a meltdown in the US Open final against Naomi Osaka, after which she says she went to see a therapist, were painful enough.

Nevertheless, Williams refused to accept that the record may elude her. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I don't know," she said. "I mean, I don't really think about it. I just go out there and play, see what happens.

"That's kind of how I've been in my whole career. You know, I never thought about time in general.

"I feel like I'm just really on this journey of just doing the best that I can, playing the best that I can when I can."

'Wake up!'

Her leaden-footed and lethargic performance -- she only really got fired up in the first game of the second set yelling at the ground when she won a point -- &nbsp;provoked one spectator to cry out: "Wake up Serena!"

"Actually I did hear it," she said. "I definitely wasn't asleep. But I did hear it.

"Actually sometimes the comments help me, whether they're good or bad. It didn't bother me at all."

Williams, who had her close friend Meghan, Duchess of Sussex cheering her on from the Royal Box, said she did not know if as age advances she is getting more tense about winning another Grand Slam.

"Now, you know, in my 20s -- I'm always expected to win, but it's a different circumstance for me," she said.

"Seems like every Grand Slam final I'm in recently has been an unbelievable effort to get there.

"It would be interesting to see how it would be under different circumstances.

"The only thing I can say is today I think my opponent played unbelievable."

However, if anyone thought that such a humbling defeat might prompt thoughts of retirement Williams had a message for them.

"I feel like I'm still incredibly competitive or else I wouldn't really be out here,"

"For the most part, I feel like I'm on the right track.

"I'm just going in the right direction in terms of getting back to where I need to be."

Serena Williams delivered a stinging rebuke to fellow tennis legend Billie Jean King who said she should focus on tennis and stop behaving like a celebrity and fighting for equality.

Serena Williams delivered a stinging rebuke to fellow tennis legend Billie Jean King who said she should focus on tennis and stop behaving like a celebrity and fighting for equality. King -- who was no stranger to fighting for equality for women players when she was starting out -- may feel justified after Williams was played off the court in the Wimbledon final on Saturday. She was beaten 6-2, 6-2 in less than an hour by Simona Halep, who had lost on nine of the 10 previous occasions she had played the American. King had said that running a business, looking after a child and battling for equality for women and ethnic minorities, could largely all be dealt with by her staff while she focused on tennis for a couple of years. The 75-year-old told the BBC earlier in the tournament that Williams should give up being a celebrity for a year: "Just stop all this insanity." Williams, though, hit back on Saturday. "The day I stop fighting for equality and for people that look like you and me will be the day I'm in my grave," said the 37-year-old in response to the question. On the court, Saturday's blowout was the third time in the past year that Williams has failed to take the chance to equal Australian Margaret Court's Grand Slam titles record of 24 -- her stated goal on returning from giving birth to her daughter Olympia. Losses to Angelique Kerber in last year's Wimbledon final and then a meltdown in the US Open final against Naomi Osaka, after which she says she went to see a therapist, were painful enough. Nevertheless, Williams refused to accept that the record may elude her. "I don't know," she said. "I mean, I don't really think about it. I just go out there and play, see what happens. "That's kind of how I've been in my whole career. You know, I never thought about time in general. "I feel like I'm just really on this journey of just doing the best that I can, playing the best that I can when I can." 'Wake up!' Her leaden-footed and lethargic performance -- she only really got fired up in the first game of the second set yelling at the ground when she won a point -- provoked one spectator to cry out: "Wake up Serena!" "Actually I did hear it," she said. "I definitely wasn't asleep. But I did hear it. "Actually sometimes the comments help me, whether they're good or bad. It didn't bother me at all." Williams, who had her close friend Meghan, Duchess of Sussex cheering her on from the Royal Box, said she did not know if as age advances she is getting more tense about winning another Grand Slam. "Now, you know, in my 20s -- I'm always expected to win, but it's a different circumstance for me," she said. "Seems like every Grand Slam final I'm in recently has been an unbelievable effort to get there. "It would be interesting to see how it would be under different circumstances. "The only thing I can say is today I think my opponent played unbelievable." However, if anyone thought that such a humbling defeat might prompt thoughts of retirement Williams had a message for them. "I feel like I'm still incredibly competitive or else I wouldn't really be out here," "For the most part, I feel like I'm on the right track. "I'm just going in the right direction in terms of getting back to where I need to be."

Equality is my cause: Serena Williams puts legend Billie Jean King in her place

Serena Williams' wait for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam singles title goes on after Simona Halep stunned the off-key American 6-2, 6-2 in a one-sided Wimbledon final on Saturday.

An inspired Halep took full advantage of an error-strewn display by seven-times champion Williams to become the first Romanian to win a Wimbledon singles title.

The 27-year-old Halep, broke the Williams serve in the opening game and raced into a 4-0 lead in front of 15,000 disbelieving fans on Centre Court.

She remained rock solid throughout, making only three unforced errors, and Williams simply could not respond.

Even when Williams fired herself up at the start of the second set and began to strike the ball with her customary power, seventh seed Halep refused to take a backward step.

Halep weathered the storm and reeled off the last five games of what she described as the best match of her life.

Williams, who is still to add to her Grand Slam collection since giving birth to daughter Olympia in September 2017, looked out of ideas and the match ended after 56 minutes when she buried a forehand into the net -- her 26th unforced error.

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The moment <a href="https://twitter.com/Simona_Halep?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Simona_Halep</a> became Romania's first ever <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Wimbledon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Wimbledon</a> singles champion 🇷🇴 <a href="https://t.co/bny53dP8AL">pic.twitter.com/bny53dP8AL</a>
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"She played out of her mind," Williams, who had won nine of her previous 10 matches against Halep, said on court after picking up the runners-up salver for the second year running, having lost to a similarly inspired Angelique Kerber last year.

"It was a little bit a deer in headlights for me. Whenever a player plays like that you just have to take your hat off."

Until Saturday the only other Romanian to reach the Wimbledon final was Ilie Nastase who twice finished runner-up, in 1972 and 1976. But Halep went one better as she added the Wimbledon crown to the French Open she won in 2018.

"It's something very special and I'll never forget this day. It was my mum's dream when I was about 10. The day came," former world number one Halep said.

"Well I had nerves, my stomach wasn't well before. But I knew there was no time for emotions so I just came out on court to do my best."&nbsp;

Serena Williams' wait for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam singles title goes on after Simona Halep stunned the off-key American 6-2, 6-2 in a one-sided Wimbledon final on Saturday.

Serena Williams' wait for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam singles title goes on after Simona Halep stunned the off-key American 6-2, 6-2 in a one-sided Wimbledon final on Saturday. An inspired Halep took full advantage of an error-strewn display by seven-times champion Williams to become the first Romanian to win a Wimbledon singles title. The 27-year-old Halep, broke the Williams serve in the opening game and raced into a 4-0 lead in front of 15,000 disbelieving fans on Centre Court. She remained rock solid throughout, making only three unforced errors, and Williams simply could not respond. Even when Williams fired herself up at the start of the second set and began to strike the ball with her customary power, seventh seed Halep refused to take a backward step. Halep weathered the storm and reeled off the last five games of what she described as the best match of her life. Williams, who is still to add to her Grand Slam collection since giving birth to daughter Olympia in September 2017, looked out of ideas and the match ended after 56 minutes when she buried a forehand into the net -- her 26th unforced error. The moment @Simona_Halep became Romania's first ever #Wimbledon singles champion 🇷🇴 pic.twitter.com/bny53dP8AL — Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 13, 2019 × 🏆 @Simona_Halep 🏆#Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/RdUFeQwRwb — Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 13, 2019 × "She played out of her mind," Williams, who had won nine of her previous 10 matches against Halep, said on court after picking up the runners-up salver for the second year running, having lost to a similarly inspired Angelique Kerber last year. "It was a little bit a deer in headlights for me. Whenever a player plays like that you just have to take your hat off." Until Saturday the only other Romanian to reach the Wimbledon final was Ilie Nastase who twice finished runner-up, in 1972 and 1976. But Halep went one better as she added the Wimbledon crown to the French Open she won in 2018. "It's something very special and I'll never forget this day. It was my mum's dream when I was about 10. The day came," former world number one Halep said. "Well I had nerves, my stomach wasn't well before. But I knew there was no time for emotions so I just came out on court to do my best."

Simona Halep beats Serena Williams to win Wimbledon singles title

Eight-time Wimbledon champion Roger Federer believes the "stars have aligned" as he attempts to become the oldest Grand Slam winner of modern times in Sunday's final against Novak Djokovic.

The 37-year-old Swiss can clinch a record-extending 21st major if he manages to break free of the world number one's stranglehold.

Four-time Wimbledon winner and defending champion Djokovic enjoys a 25-22 edge in career meetings, stretching back 13 years.

The Serb has won 14 of their last 20 meetings and eight of the last 10.

Federer has lost all four of their most recent meetings at the Slams and it's now seven years since he triumphed over the 32-year-old at the majors.

That was 2012 in four sets in a Wimbledon semi-final.

However, Federer, who will be 38 next month, insists such statistics are meaningless as he attempts to succeed Ken Rosewall, at the 1972 Australian Open, as the oldest Slam champion of the Open era.

"It's been a rock-solid year for me. I won in Halle (on grass on the eve of Wimbledon). The stars are aligned right now," said Federer.

"From that standpoint, I can go into the match very confident."

Federer, who passed the 100-win mark at Wimbledon in his quarter-final victory over Kei Nishikori, is feeling especially confident after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-are-not-done-says-rafael-nadal-after-loss-to-roger-federer-at-wimbledon-235452">seeing off Rafael Nadal</a> in four sets in the semi-final.

That win was crucial coming as it did just a month after his old rival had condemned him to his worst Slam loss in 11 years in the semi-finals at Roland Garros.

Appearing in his 12th final at the All England Club, and 16 years after his maiden Wimbledon title triumph, Federer believes there is little new that either he or Djokovic can do to prepare for Sunday's showdown.

"This is like at school -- on the day of the test you're not going to read, I don't know, how many books that day.&nbsp;

"It's quite clear the work was done way before."

There is no doubt whatsoever as to who the crowd will support.

Djokovic, a 15-time Grand Slam champion, is respected by British fans but certainly not revered in the same saintly fashion reserved for Federer.

Too intense and too new age for modest British tastes, Djokovic did little to endear himself in his semi-final win over Roberto Bautista Agut.

After a punishing 45-shot rally ended in his favour, the Serb roared out his frustration, cupped his ear and placed an admonishing finger to his lips as most of Centre Court willed the ball to fall in the Spaniard's favour.

"Look, I focus on what I need to do," said Djokovic.

"At times they wanted him to come back into the match, maybe take a lead because he was an underdog.&nbsp;

"I understand that. But I had enough support here over the years, so I don't complain."

Djokovic has yet to be truly tested at this Wimbledon.

The highest-ranked player he has faced was 21st-seeded David Goffin of Belgium who was dismissed for the loss of just six games in the quarter-finals.

The 'NextGen' hopefuls in his half of the draw all failed to fire.

Highly-regarded Stefanos Tsitsipas never made it past the first day while Canadian teenager Felix Auger-Aliassime fell in the third round.

"With Federer, we all know how good he is anywhere, but especially here. This surface complements his game very well," said Djokovic ahead of the pair's 16th meeting at the Slams and 20th meeting in a tour-level final.

"He loves to play very fast. Takes away the time from his opponent. Just doesn't give you any of the same looks."

Djokovic is playing in his 25th Grand Slam final while Federer has played six more.

Whoever emerges as champion on Sunday, it will yet again confirm the dominance of the 'Big Three' of Federer, Djokovic and Nadal.

Between them, they will have won the last 11 majors, 15 of the last 17 and 54 of the last 65. 
&nbsp;

Eight-time Wimbledon champion Roger Federer believes the "stars have aligned" as he attempts to become the oldest Grand Slam winner of modern times in Sunday's final against Novak Djokovic.

Eight-time Wimbledon champion Roger Federer believes the "stars have aligned" as he attempts to become the oldest Grand Slam winner of modern times in Sunday's final against Novak Djokovic. The 37-year-old Swiss can clinch a record-extending 21st major if he manages to break free of the world number one's stranglehold. Four-time Wimbledon winner and defending champion Djokovic enjoys a 25-22 edge in career meetings, stretching back 13 years. The Serb has won 14 of their last 20 meetings and eight of the last 10. Federer has lost all four of their most recent meetings at the Slams and it's now seven years since he triumphed over the 32-year-old at the majors. That was 2012 in four sets in a Wimbledon semi-final. However, Federer, who will be 38 next month, insists such statistics are meaningless as he attempts to succeed Ken Rosewall, at the 1972 Australian Open, as the oldest Slam champion of the Open era. "It's been a rock-solid year for me. I won in Halle (on grass on the eve of Wimbledon). The stars are aligned right now," said Federer. "From that standpoint, I can go into the match very confident." Federer, who passed the 100-win mark at Wimbledon in his quarter-final victory over Kei Nishikori, is feeling especially confident after seeing off Rafael Nadal in four sets in the semi-final. That win was crucial coming as it did just a month after his old rival had condemned him to his worst Slam loss in 11 years in the semi-finals at Roland Garros. Appearing in his 12th final at the All England Club, and 16 years after his maiden Wimbledon title triumph, Federer believes there is little new that either he or Djokovic can do to prepare for Sunday's showdown. "This is like at school -- on the day of the test you're not going to read, I don't know, how many books that day. "It's quite clear the work was done way before." There is no doubt whatsoever as to who the crowd will support. Djokovic, a 15-time Grand Slam champion, is respected by British fans but certainly not revered in the same saintly fashion reserved for Federer. Too intense and too new age for modest British tastes, Djokovic did little to endear himself in his semi-final win over Roberto Bautista Agut. After a punishing 45-shot rally ended in his favour, the Serb roared out his frustration, cupped his ear and placed an admonishing finger to his lips as most of Centre Court willed the ball to fall in the Spaniard's favour. "Look, I focus on what I need to do," said Djokovic. "At times they wanted him to come back into the match, maybe take a lead because he was an underdog. "I understand that. But I had enough support here over the years, so I don't complain." Djokovic has yet to be truly tested at this Wimbledon. The highest-ranked player he has faced was 21st-seeded David Goffin of Belgium who was dismissed for the loss of just six games in the quarter-finals. The 'NextGen' hopefuls in his half of the draw all failed to fire. Highly-regarded Stefanos Tsitsipas never made it past the first day while Canadian teenager Felix Auger-Aliassime fell in the third round. "With Federer, we all know how good he is anywhere, but especially here. This surface complements his game very well," said Djokovic ahead of the pair's 16th meeting at the Slams and 20th meeting in a tour-level final. "He loves to play very fast. Takes away the time from his opponent. Just doesn't give you any of the same looks." Djokovic is playing in his 25th Grand Slam final while Federer has played six more. Whoever emerges as champion on Sunday, it will yet again confirm the dominance of the 'Big Three' of Federer, Djokovic and Nadal. Between them, they will have won the last 11 majors, 15 of the last 17 and 54 of the last 65.

'Stars align' as Roger Federer seeks to break Novak Djokovic spell in Wimbledon final

Serena Williams's place among the legends of tennis is assured but her mission will not be accomplished unless she at least equals Margaret Court's record haul of 24 Grand Slam singles titles.

The 37-year-old American gets a third chance in a year to go level with the controversial Australian when she plays another former world number one Simona Halep in the Wimbledon final on Saturday.

Aside from the one-on-one rivalry on court, both women have a member of the royal family rooting for them -- Williams's friend Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, and Halep favouring Kate, Duchess of Cambridge.&nbsp;

Williams will hope for a happier ending than being out-played both by Angelique Kerber in last year's Wimbledon final and Naomi Osaka in the US Open final where a spectacular meltdown torpedoed her cause, leading her to eventually consult a therapist.

Williams claimed after her semi-final romp over unseeded Czech Barbora Strycova that the Court landmark is not on her mind.

"I thought about it this morning," she said.

"I actually didn't think about it since because it's really not about 24 or 23 or 25.

"It's really just about going out there and giving my best effort no matter what.

"No matter what I do, I will always have a great career. I just kind of let it go this morning. I feel really calm about it."

Her claiming to be calm -- she attributes this to digging into her memory and recalling how she felt when she beat sister Venus in 2002 for her first Wimbledon title -- will reassure her coach Patrick Mouratoglou.

The 49-year-old Frenchman is more forthright over the reason why Williams has returned to the tour after giving birth to her daughter Olympia.

It is chasing down 76-year-old Court's landmark set between 1960 and 1973.

'Stronger mentally'

"That's why she came back to playing tennis after having a baby and so many medical complications," he said.

"The effort she's put in, I've never seen something like this.

"You have no idea how hard she worked to come back to that level, and she came back for that, so it will probably mean a lot if she makes it."

Williams's campaign has been something of a rollercoaster.

Sublime against Strycova -- who had ousted four seeds on her way to the semi-finals -- she wobbled badly against compatriot Alison Riske in the previous round.

Calmness was not the adjective to describe her emotions during the Riske match and even she admits her serenity on Thursday could be replaced by a contrasting demeanour come Saturday.

"It's a day-to-day basis with me," she said.

"We all know that. I'm far from perfect."

Halep, the first Romanian woman to play in the Wimbledon final, has the weaponry to upset Williams.

However, she will want her serve to be more reliable than it was in the early stages of her ultimately easy semi-final win over Elina Svitolina.

The 27-year-old has won just one of the four Grand Slam finals in which she has appeared -- last year's French Open.

But she has shown already she can deal with a partisan crowd having beaten 15-year-old Coco Gauff on Monday.

The size of the challenge confronting her is reflected in having won just one of her 10 previous meetings with Williams, although she has regularly taken her to three sets.

"I believe that I have my chance to win against her," said Halep.

"Of course, I respect a lot what she has done and what she's doing. But now I feel stronger mentally facing her.

"We will see what is going to happen. It's just a big challenge for me."

However, for Halep it is not about being the latest player to deny Williams equalling Court's landmark.

"I'm desperate to win Wimbledon more than to stop her."

Martina Navaratilova, who holds the record of nine women's Wimbledon singles titles, says Halep's hopes of getting Williams involved in long rallies to tire her out are likely to be dashed.

"You can't get to the big points because Serena is always ahead," she told the BBC.

"It's the weapon of mass destruction I call it -- the Serena serve."

Serena Williams's place among the legends of tennis is assured but her mission will not be accomplished unless she at least equals Margaret Court's record haul of 24 Grand Slam singles titles.

Serena Williams's place among the legends of tennis is assured but her mission will not be accomplished unless she at least equals Margaret Court's record haul of 24 Grand Slam singles titles. The 37-year-old American gets a third chance in a year to go level with the controversial Australian when she plays another former world number one Simona Halep in the Wimbledon final on Saturday. Aside from the one-on-one rivalry on court, both women have a member of the royal family rooting for them -- Williams's friend Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, and Halep favouring Kate, Duchess of Cambridge. Williams will hope for a happier ending than being out-played both by Angelique Kerber in last year's Wimbledon final and Naomi Osaka in the US Open final where a spectacular meltdown torpedoed her cause, leading her to eventually consult a therapist. Williams claimed after her semi-final romp over unseeded Czech Barbora Strycova that the Court landmark is not on her mind. "I thought about it this morning," she said. "I actually didn't think about it since because it's really not about 24 or 23 or 25. "It's really just about going out there and giving my best effort no matter what. "No matter what I do, I will always have a great career. I just kind of let it go this morning. I feel really calm about it." Her claiming to be calm -- she attributes this to digging into her memory and recalling how she felt when she beat sister Venus in 2002 for her first Wimbledon title -- will reassure her coach Patrick Mouratoglou. The 49-year-old Frenchman is more forthright over the reason why Williams has returned to the tour after giving birth to her daughter Olympia. It is chasing down 76-year-old Court's landmark set between 1960 and 1973. 'Stronger mentally' "That's why she came back to playing tennis after having a baby and so many medical complications," he said. "The effort she's put in, I've never seen something like this. "You have no idea how hard she worked to come back to that level, and she came back for that, so it will probably mean a lot if she makes it." Williams's campaign has been something of a rollercoaster. Sublime against Strycova -- who had ousted four seeds on her way to the semi-finals -- she wobbled badly against compatriot Alison Riske in the previous round. Calmness was not the adjective to describe her emotions during the Riske match and even she admits her serenity on Thursday could be replaced by a contrasting demeanour come Saturday. "It's a day-to-day basis with me," she said. "We all know that. I'm far from perfect." Halep, the first Romanian woman to play in the Wimbledon final, has the weaponry to upset Williams. However, she will want her serve to be more reliable than it was in the early stages of her ultimately easy semi-final win over Elina Svitolina. The 27-year-old has won just one of the four Grand Slam finals in which she has appeared -- last year's French Open. But she has shown already she can deal with a partisan crowd having beaten 15-year-old Coco Gauff on Monday. The size of the challenge confronting her is reflected in having won just one of her 10 previous meetings with Williams, although she has regularly taken her to three sets. "I believe that I have my chance to win against her," said Halep. "Of course, I respect a lot what she has done and what she's doing. But now I feel stronger mentally facing her. "We will see what is going to happen. It's just a big challenge for me." However, for Halep it is not about being the latest player to deny Williams equalling Court's landmark. "I'm desperate to win Wimbledon more than to stop her." Martina Navaratilova, who holds the record of nine women's Wimbledon singles titles, says Halep's hopes of getting Williams involved in long rallies to tire her out are likely to be dashed. "You can't get to the big points because Serena is always ahead," she told the BBC. "It's the weapon of mass destruction I call it -- the Serena serve."

Calm before the storm? Simona Halep stands between Serena Williams and Court landmark

Simona Halep is the last woman standing between&nbsp;Serena&nbsp;Williams and achieving her long-held ambition of equalling Margaret Court's Grand Slam title record after both recorded easy victories in their Wimbledon semi-finals on Thursday.

Seven-time champion Williams made short work of plucky unseeded Czech Barbora Strycova, whose experience of her first ever Grand Slams singles semi-final in her 53rd campaign lasted just under an hour as she lost 6-1, 6-2.

Former world number one Halep's clash with Ukrainian Elina Svitolina lasted a bit longer but the 27-year-old ran out a 6-1, 6-3 victor to become the first Romanian woman to reach the Wimbledon final.

Williams has missed the chance to equal Australian Court's record on two occasions since returning from giving birth -- losing last year's Wimbledon final and then a bad-tempered defeat in the US Open final.

"It feels good to be in the final again after the year I have had," said 37-year-old Williams.

"I have just needed matches to feel good and do what I do best and that is play tennis

"I love what I do. I have a great job and I am still pretty good at it. I get a remarkable experience every time."

Williams produced a dominant performance on Thursday which has not always been the case during the Championships and she said she would not be taking seventh-seeded Halep lightly.

"She's a tough opponent," said Williams. "We always have great matches. I look forward to it."

Strycova, who never managed to impose her delightful stroke-filled game on her opponent, at least has the consolation of perhaps winning the women's doubles. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Halep, who was French Open champion in 2018, will be playing in her fifth Grand Slam final.

"It's an amazing feeling but I am also excited and nervous. It is one of the best moments of my life," said Halep.

"The match was not easy, the games were long and went deep.

"I fought hard to win this match and I was strong mentally and physically and had the right tactics."

Halep, who had knocked out new star, 15-year-old Coco Gauff in the last 16, lost in her previous semi-final appearance at Wimbledon to Eugenie Bouchard in 2014.

However, she said she was a different player now and had taken to grass.

"I have more experience, I don't give up anymore," se said.

"I plan to be the best version of myself and fight to the end."

'Kicking the ball'

The easy manner in which former world number one Halep wrapped up the match had not looked on the cards at the outset.

Svitolina, the first Ukrainian woman to reach a Grand Slam semi-final, and Halep traded shots aplenty and break points in the opening two games which took over 20 minutes to complete but Halep emerged on top with a 2-0 lead.

Svitolina, being watched from the players box by her English coach Andy Bettles and French boyfriend and ATP star Gael Monfils, briefly raised her game to break back.

However, Halep broke again immediately and 24-year-old Svitolina gave an indication of her increasing frustration when she netted a simple volley and lashed out, kicking the ball into the net.

Worse was to come for Svitolina on her next service game wheh Halep produced a stunning shot to go 5-1.

The 27-year-old Romanian dashed across court to get to Svitolina's drop shot and flashed it cross court.

Halep, who had not faced a seeded player until Svitolina, faced some resistance as she served for the set eventually taking it on her sixth set point.

Although Svitolina stayed with Halep for the first part of the second set, the self-belief and fight had gone and when the Romanian broke for 4-3 it was game over.

All that was left was for Halep to blow a kiss skywards in celebration on sealing the match.

Simona Halep is the last woman standing between Serena Williams and achieving her long-held ambition of equalling Margaret Court's Grand Slam title record after both recorded easy victories in their Wimbledon semi-finals on Thursday.

Simona Halep is the last woman standing between Serena Williams and achieving her long-held ambition of equalling Margaret Court's Grand Slam title record after both recorded easy victories in their Wimbledon semi-finals on Thursday. Seven-time champion Williams made short work of plucky unseeded Czech Barbora Strycova, whose experience of her first ever Grand Slams singles semi-final in her 53rd campaign lasted just under an hour as she lost 6-1, 6-2. Former world number one Halep's clash with Ukrainian Elina Svitolina lasted a bit longer but the 27-year-old ran out a 6-1, 6-3 victor to become the first Romanian woman to reach the Wimbledon final. Williams has missed the chance to equal Australian Court's record on two occasions since returning from giving birth -- losing last year's Wimbledon final and then a bad-tempered defeat in the US Open final. "It feels good to be in the final again after the year I have had," said 37-year-old Williams. "I have just needed matches to feel good and do what I do best and that is play tennis "I love what I do. I have a great job and I am still pretty good at it. I get a remarkable experience every time." Williams produced a dominant performance on Thursday which has not always been the case during the Championships and she said she would not be taking seventh-seeded Halep lightly. "She's a tough opponent," said Williams. "We always have great matches. I look forward to it." Strycova, who never managed to impose her delightful stroke-filled game on her opponent, at least has the consolation of perhaps winning the women's doubles. Halep, who was French Open champion in 2018, will be playing in her fifth Grand Slam final. "It's an amazing feeling but I am also excited and nervous. It is one of the best moments of my life," said Halep. "The match was not easy, the games were long and went deep. "I fought hard to win this match and I was strong mentally and physically and had the right tactics." Halep, who had knocked out new star, 15-year-old Coco Gauff in the last 16, lost in her previous semi-final appearance at Wimbledon to Eugenie Bouchard in 2014. However, she said she was a different player now and had taken to grass. "I have more experience, I don't give up anymore," se said. "I plan to be the best version of myself and fight to the end." 'Kicking the ball' The easy manner in which former world number one Halep wrapped up the match had not looked on the cards at the outset. Svitolina, the first Ukrainian woman to reach a Grand Slam semi-final, and Halep traded shots aplenty and break points in the opening two games which took over 20 minutes to complete but Halep emerged on top with a 2-0 lead. Svitolina, being watched from the players box by her English coach Andy Bettles and French boyfriend and ATP star Gael Monfils, briefly raised her game to break back. However, Halep broke again immediately and 24-year-old Svitolina gave an indication of her increasing frustration when she netted a simple volley and lashed out, kicking the ball into the net. Worse was to come for Svitolina on her next service game wheh Halep produced a stunning shot to go 5-1. The 27-year-old Romanian dashed across court to get to Svitolina's drop shot and flashed it cross court. Halep, who had not faced a seeded player until Svitolina, faced some resistance as she served for the set eventually taking it on her sixth set point. Although Svitolina stayed with Halep for the first part of the second set, the self-belief and fight had gone and when the Romanian broke for 4-3 it was game over. All that was left was for Halep to blow a kiss skywards in celebration on sealing the match.

Serena Williams to face Simona Halep in Wimbledon final

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Roger+Federer">Roger Federer</a> can rack up his 100th win at Wimbledon on Wednesday and set-up a blockbuster semi-final against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Rafael+Nadal">Rafael Nadal</a>.

In a quarter-final line-up which features five players over 30, there is a growing anticipation of a potential 40th career match-up between the sport's two most successful players.

If it does happen, it will be their first at the All England Club since 2008 when Nadal triumphed in what is widely regarded as the greatest final ever played at the tournament.

However, before they reach that stage, eight-time champion Federer has to get past Kei Nishikori while Nadal, a two-time winner, tackles big-hitting Sam Querrey.

Whoever battles through that side of the draw is likely to find defending champion and four-time winner Novak Djokovic waiting in the final.

At 37, Federer is the oldest quarter-finalist since Jimmy Connors in 1991.

He reached his 17th quarter-final at the All England Club -- and 55th at the majors -- with a 74-minute demolition of Italy's Matteo Berrettini, dropping just five games.

Between them, Federer, Nadal and Djokovic lost only 19 games in their fourth-round ties and faced just one break point.

"I think the best guys now are fully engaged, they know exactly what to expect from the court and the conditions," said second seed Federer.

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'Nishikori great talent'

"That helps us to play better. I think with experience, that's good. We haven't dropped much energy in any way."

Federer will take a 7-3 record over seventh-seeded Nishikori into his quarter-final.

Nishikori defeated the great Swiss in the ATP Finals last year, ending a drought which had stretched to almost five years.

"I'm a big fan of his game," said Federer of the Japanese star, who is into his second successive quarter-final at Wimbledon.

"I think he's got one of the best backhands in the game. He's a great return player. Solid mentally. I always thought he was a great talent."

Nishikori is bidding to become the first Japanese man since Jiro Satoh in 1933 to make the semi-finals at Wimbledon.

Nadal, playing in his seventh Wimbledon quarter-final, faces Querrey backed up by a 4-1 record over the 65th-ranked American.

Querrey made the semi-finals in 2017, beating then world number one Andy Murray in the last-eight before falling to Marin Cilic.

The American has pounded down 100 aces so far at the tournament, dropped serve just once and accounted for fifth seed Dominic Thiem in the first round.

"When he plays well, he can be very, very dangerous on all surfaces," said Nadal, whose recent 12th French Open title took him to 18 majors, just two back from Federer's record.

Querrey hopes to be the first unseeded player in the semi-finals since Marat Safin and Rainer Schuettler both made it in 2008.

Top seed Djokovic has a 5-1 record over his quarter-final opponent David Goffin who, at 28, is the youngest man left.

Belgian 21st seed Goffin beat Djokovic the last time they met in 2017 but that was on the clay of Monte Carlo.

Goffin is playing in his first All England Club quarter-final but was runner-up to Federer on the grass of Halle on the eve of Wimbledon.

"He's one of the quickest players on the tour. I think his footwork is probably his biggest asset," said Djokovic ahead of his 11th Wimbledon quarter-final and 45th at the Slams.

Wednesday's other quarter-final pits Argentine 26th seed Guido Pella, who had never previously got into the second week of a Slam, against Spanish 23rd seed Roberto Bautista Agut.&nbsp;

Whereas 29-year-old Pella is in unchartered territory, Bautista Agut is in his second Slam quarter-final of the season having also gone to the last eight at the Australian Open.

Pella has spent six more hours on court than Bautista Agut in getting to his first quarter-finals at the majors.

Roger Federer can rack up his 100th win at Wimbledon on Wednesday and set-up a blockbuster semi-final against Rafael Nadal. In a quarter-final line-up which features five players over 30, there is a growing anticipation of a potential 40th career match-up between the sport's two most successful players.

Roger Federer can rack up his 100th win at Wimbledon on Wednesday and set-up a blockbuster semi-final against Rafael Nadal. In a quarter-final line-up which features five players over 30, there is a growing anticipation of a potential 40th career match-up between the sport's two most successful players. If it does happen, it will be their first at the All England Club since 2008 when Nadal triumphed in what is widely regarded as the greatest final ever played at the tournament. However, before they reach that stage, eight-time champion Federer has to get past Kei Nishikori while Nadal, a two-time winner, tackles big-hitting Sam Querrey. Whoever battles through that side of the draw is likely to find defending champion and four-time winner Novak Djokovic waiting in the final. At 37, Federer is the oldest quarter-finalist since Jimmy Connors in 1991. He reached his 17th quarter-final at the All England Club -- and 55th at the majors -- with a 74-minute demolition of Italy's Matteo Berrettini, dropping just five games. Between them, Federer, Nadal and Djokovic lost only 19 games in their fourth-round ties and faced just one break point. "I think the best guys now are fully engaged, they know exactly what to expect from the court and the conditions," said second seed Federer. Everything you need to know about men's quarter-finals day. #Wimbledon https://t.co/yuyDJCz2Pf — Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 10, 2019 × 'Nishikori great talent' "That helps us to play better. I think with experience, that's good. We haven't dropped much energy in any way." Federer will take a 7-3 record over seventh-seeded Nishikori into his quarter-final. Nishikori defeated the great Swiss in the ATP Finals last year, ending a drought which had stretched to almost five years. "I'm a big fan of his game," said Federer of the Japanese star, who is into his second successive quarter-final at Wimbledon. "I think he's got one of the best backhands in the game. He's a great return player. Solid mentally. I always thought he was a great talent." Nishikori is bidding to become the first Japanese man since Jiro Satoh in 1933 to make the semi-finals at Wimbledon. Nadal, playing in his seventh Wimbledon quarter-final, faces Querrey backed up by a 4-1 record over the 65th-ranked American. Querrey made the semi-finals in 2017, beating then world number one Andy Murray in the last-eight before falling to Marin Cilic. The American has pounded down 100 aces so far at the tournament, dropped serve just once and accounted for fifth seed Dominic Thiem in the first round. "When he plays well, he can be very, very dangerous on all surfaces," said Nadal, whose recent 12th French Open title took him to 18 majors, just two back from Federer's record. Querrey hopes to be the first unseeded player in the semi-finals since Marat Safin and Rainer Schuettler both made it in 2008. Top seed Djokovic has a 5-1 record over his quarter-final opponent David Goffin who, at 28, is the youngest man left. Belgian 21st seed Goffin beat Djokovic the last time they met in 2017 but that was on the clay of Monte Carlo. Goffin is playing in his first All England Club quarter-final but was runner-up to Federer on the grass of Halle on the eve of Wimbledon. "He's one of the quickest players on the tour. I think his footwork is probably his biggest asset," said Djokovic ahead of his 11th Wimbledon quarter-final and 45th at the Slams. Wednesday's other quarter-final pits Argentine 26th seed Guido Pella, who had never previously got into the second week of a Slam, against Spanish 23rd seed Roberto Bautista Agut. Whereas 29-year-old Pella is in unchartered territory, Bautista Agut is in his second Slam quarter-final of the season having also gone to the last eight at the Australian Open. Pella has spent six more hours on court than Bautista Agut in getting to his first quarter-finals at the majors.

Roger Federer eyes 100th Wimbledon win

Top seed Novak Djokovic recovered from an edgy start to deliver a devastating display that crushed the spirit of 21st-seeded Belgian David Goffin in straight sets on Wednesday and sent the defending champion surging into the Wimbledon semi-finals.

Goffin will wonder just what happened after he looked the better player in the early stages and broke for a 4-3 lead in the first set. Half an hour later he had lost 10 games in a row and the match was effectively over as Djokovic went on to triumph 6-4, 6-0, 6-2.

The 32-year-old Serb was at his clinical best as he soaked up the early punches without panic then imposed himself in every aspect of the contest to such an extent that Goffin, 28, was left flailing on Centre Court.

Djokovic, who has lost only once at a Grand Slam in the last 12 months, is into his ninth Wimbledon semi-final – only Jimmy Connors and Roger Federer have been in more – where he will face Spanish world number 22 Roberto Bautista Agut.

Djokovic has reached the semis having dropped one set and been broken only five times in five matches and was delighted with how Wednesday's match eventually unfolded.

"He started well and was dictating the play from the baseline," he said. "Things could have gone a different way - who knows what the match would have looked like if I had lost the first set?

"I think it was the turning point, it was a huge relief for me mentally. I started relaxing, going through the ball a bit more and I felt like I managed to dismantle his game and find the right shots."

Look Dangerous

It is not an uncommon pattern for the outsider to come out swinging and look dangerous, only to fall away, but the contrast was particularly extreme on Wednesday.

The Belgian was clearly the better player for much of the first set and though Djokovic saved break points in early games he could not prevent Goffin cashing in on more in the seventh as, showing great court speed, he broke for 4-3.

The crowd settled down for what they thought might be a classic battle but it proved to be the high water mark for Goffin as Djokovic started to find his return range, broke back immediately, held without trouble and broke again to bag the set.

Goffin, from dominating the rallies, was suddenly having to work desperately hard to stay in them, usually failing.

As Djokovic’s accuracy improved, particularly his service returns, his opponent’s slipped dramatically and he played a horror game to lose serve again to love and slide to 4-0 down, and then quickly 6-0 as he conceded the second set.

Goffin then received what all pros must hate – the Centre Court sympathy clap – when he finally held serve for 1-1 in the third set.

But he was barely going through the motions after that as the Serb cruised through to finish off the match in less than two hours.

"As soon as he was a break down he started to play a little bit - everything was a little bit deeper, he served a little bit better and it was tough after that," Goffin said.

"Even if you play well, it's not enough because he continues to play deep, deep, close from the line, left, right. Amazing backhand down the line, as well. He was everywhere."

Top seed Novak Djokovic recovered from an edgy start to deliver a devastating display that crushed the spirit of 21st-seeded Belgian David Goffin in straight sets on Wednesday and sent the defending champion surging into the Wimbledon semi-finals.

Top seed Novak Djokovic recovered from an edgy start to deliver a devastating display that crushed the spirit of 21st-seeded Belgian David Goffin in straight sets on Wednesday and sent the defending champion surging into the Wimbledon semi-finals. Goffin will wonder just what happened after he looked the better player in the early stages and broke for a 4-3 lead in the first set. Half an hour later he had lost 10 games in a row and the match was effectively over as Djokovic went on to triumph 6-4, 6-0, 6-2. The 32-year-old Serb was at his clinical best as he soaked up the early punches without panic then imposed himself in every aspect of the contest to such an extent that Goffin, 28, was left flailing on Centre Court. Djokovic, who has lost only once at a Grand Slam in the last 12 months, is into his ninth Wimbledon semi-final – only Jimmy Connors and Roger Federer have been in more – where he will face Spanish world number 22 Roberto Bautista Agut. Djokovic has reached the semis having dropped one set and been broken only five times in five matches and was delighted with how Wednesday's match eventually unfolded. "He started well and was dictating the play from the baseline," he said. "Things could have gone a different way - who knows what the match would have looked like if I had lost the first set? "I think it was the turning point, it was a huge relief for me mentally. I started relaxing, going through the ball a bit more and I felt like I managed to dismantle his game and find the right shots." Look Dangerous It is not an uncommon pattern for the outsider to come out swinging and look dangerous, only to fall away, but the contrast was particularly extreme on Wednesday. The Belgian was clearly the better player for much of the first set and though Djokovic saved break points in early games he could not prevent Goffin cashing in on more in the seventh as, showing great court speed, he broke for 4-3. The crowd settled down for what they thought might be a classic battle but it proved to be the high water mark for Goffin as Djokovic started to find his return range, broke back immediately, held without trouble and broke again to bag the set. Goffin, from dominating the rallies, was suddenly having to work desperately hard to stay in them, usually failing. As Djokovic’s accuracy improved, particularly his service returns, his opponent’s slipped dramatically and he played a horror game to lose serve again to love and slide to 4-0 down, and then quickly 6-0 as he conceded the second set. Goffin then received what all pros must hate – the Centre Court sympathy clap – when he finally held serve for 1-1 in the third set. But he was barely going through the motions after that as the Serb cruised through to finish off the match in less than two hours. "As soon as he was a break down he started to play a little bit - everything was a little bit deeper, he served a little bit better and it was tough after that," Goffin said. "Even if you play well, it's not enough because he continues to play deep, deep, close from the line, left, right. Amazing backhand down the line, as well. He was everywhere."

Novak Djokovic destroys David Goffin to reach semis

Four-time champion Novak Djokovic reached the Wimbledon semi-finals for the ninth time on Wednesday, racking up his 70th career win at the All England Club in the process.

The top seed and world number one hit back from a break down in the first set to carve out a commanding 6-4, 6-0, 6-2 win over 21st seed David Goffin of Belgium.

In a ruthless display, the defending champion reeled off 15 of the last 17 games to secure a place in the semi-finals of the majors for the 36th time.

Next up is Spanish 23rd seed Roberto Bautista Agut, who made his first Grand Slam semi-final with a 7-5, 6-4, 3-6, 6-3 over Argentina's Guido Pella.

"He started well and was dictating play from the baseline," 32-year-old Djokovic said of Goffin.

"Things could have gone a different way if I had lost the first set but I was very pleased with the second and third.

He added: "I had a tough match in the third round (against Hubert Hurkacz). Other than that, I've won in straight sets and played really well throughout the tournament.

"It's exactly what I wanted and hopefully I can go in the right direction in the semis as well."

Goffin was on top in the early stages as he sensed the opportunity to become the first Belgian man to make the semi-finals at a Slam since Xavier Malisse at Wimbledon in 2002.

The 28-year-old broke for a 4-3 lead but 16-time Slam winner Djokovic then reeled off the next nine games, taking the first set, and the second in which he allowed the Belgian just four points on his serve.

Federer v Nadal in semis?

The contest was over by the time Djokovic broke for a 3-1 lead in the third set.

Bautista Agut, 31, booked his first appearance in a Slam last-four at the 27th attempt by seeing off Pella, who had never previously reached a quarter-final at the majors.

"Novak is the number one in the world and he's playing really well on grass," said Bautista Agut, who has a 3-7 record against the Serb.

However, two of those wins came this year in Doha and Miami.

Roger Federer can rack up his 100th win at Wimbledon later Wednesday and set-up a blockbuster semi-final against Rafael Nadal.

If it does happen, it will be their first match at the All England Club since 2008 when Nadal triumphed in what is widely regarded as the greatest-ever Wimbledon final.

However, before they reach that stage, eight-time champion Federer has to get past Kei Nishikori while Nadal, a two-time winner, tackles big-hitting Sam Querrey.

At 37, Federer is the oldest quarter-finalist since Jimmy Connors in 1991.

He reached his 17th quarter-final at the All England Club -- and 55th at the majors -- with a 74-minute demolition of Italy's Matteo Berrettini, dropping just five games.

Federer will take a 7-3 record over seventh-seeded Nishikori into his quarter-final.

Nishikori, playing in his second successive Wimbledon quarter-final, defeated the Swiss great in the ATP Finals last year, ending a drought which had stretched to almost five years.

He is bidding to become the first Japanese man since Jiro Satoh in 1933 to make the semi-finals.

Nadal, playing in his seventh Wimbledon quarter-final, faces Querrey backed up by a 4-1 record over the 65th-ranked American.

Querrey made the semi-finals in 2017, beating then world number one Andy Murray in the last-eight before falling to Marin Cilic.

The American has pounded down 100 aces so far at the tournament, dropped serve just once and accounted for fifth seed Dominic Thiem in the first round.

"When he plays well, he can be very, very dangerous on all surfaces," said Nadal, whose recent 12th French Open title took him to 18 majors, just two back from Federer's record.

Querrey hopes to be the first unseeded player in the semi-finals since Marat Safin and Rainer Schuettler both made it in 2008.

Four-time champion Novak Djokovic reached the Wimbledon semi-finals for the ninth time on Wednesday, racking up his 70th career win at the All England Club in the process.

Four-time champion Novak Djokovic reached the Wimbledon semi-finals for the ninth time on Wednesday, racking up his 70th career win at the All England Club in the process. The top seed and world number one hit back from a break down in the first set to carve out a commanding 6-4, 6-0, 6-2 win over 21st seed David Goffin of Belgium. In a ruthless display, the defending champion reeled off 15 of the last 17 games to secure a place in the semi-finals of the majors for the 36th time. Next up is Spanish 23rd seed Roberto Bautista Agut, who made his first Grand Slam semi-final with a 7-5, 6-4, 3-6, 6-3 over Argentina's Guido Pella. "He started well and was dictating play from the baseline," 32-year-old Djokovic said of Goffin. "Things could have gone a different way if I had lost the first set but I was very pleased with the second and third. He added: "I had a tough match in the third round (against Hubert Hurkacz). Other than that, I've won in straight sets and played really well throughout the tournament. "It's exactly what I wanted and hopefully I can go in the right direction in the semis as well." Goffin was on top in the early stages as he sensed the opportunity to become the first Belgian man to make the semi-finals at a Slam since Xavier Malisse at Wimbledon in 2002. The 28-year-old broke for a 4-3 lead but 16-time Slam winner Djokovic then reeled off the next nine games, taking the first set, and the second in which he allowed the Belgian just four points on his serve. Federer v Nadal in semis? The contest was over by the time Djokovic broke for a 3-1 lead in the third set. Bautista Agut, 31, booked his first appearance in a Slam last-four at the 27th attempt by seeing off Pella, who had never previously reached a quarter-final at the majors. "Novak is the number one in the world and he's playing really well on grass," said Bautista Agut, who has a 3-7 record against the Serb. However, two of those wins came this year in Doha and Miami. Roger Federer can rack up his 100th win at Wimbledon later Wednesday and set-up a blockbuster semi-final against Rafael Nadal. If it does happen, it will be their first match at the All England Club since 2008 when Nadal triumphed in what is widely regarded as the greatest-ever Wimbledon final. However, before they reach that stage, eight-time champion Federer has to get past Kei Nishikori while Nadal, a two-time winner, tackles big-hitting Sam Querrey. At 37, Federer is the oldest quarter-finalist since Jimmy Connors in 1991. He reached his 17th quarter-final at the All England Club -- and 55th at the majors -- with a 74-minute demolition of Italy's Matteo Berrettini, dropping just five games. Federer will take a 7-3 record over seventh-seeded Nishikori into his quarter-final. Nishikori, playing in his second successive Wimbledon quarter-final, defeated the Swiss great in the ATP Finals last year, ending a drought which had stretched to almost five years. He is bidding to become the first Japanese man since Jiro Satoh in 1933 to make the semi-finals. Nadal, playing in his seventh Wimbledon quarter-final, faces Querrey backed up by a 4-1 record over the 65th-ranked American. Querrey made the semi-finals in 2017, beating then world number one Andy Murray in the last-eight before falling to Marin Cilic. The American has pounded down 100 aces so far at the tournament, dropped serve just once and accounted for fifth seed Dominic Thiem in the first round. "When he plays well, he can be very, very dangerous on all surfaces," said Nadal, whose recent 12th French Open title took him to 18 majors, just two back from Federer's record. Querrey hopes to be the first unseeded player in the semi-finals since Marat Safin and Rainer Schuettler both made it in 2008.

Novak Djokovic into ninth Wimbledon semi as Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal eye match-up

Andy Murray and Serena Williams' mixed doubles dream team came unstuck at Wimbledon on Wednesday when the star pairing were knocked out by the top seeds.

The pair lost 6-3, 4-6, 6-2 to Bruno Soares of Brazil and Nicole Melichar of the United States, who progress to the quarter-finals.

The third-round match was played out on the 4,000-seater Court Two sunken bowl -- a rare appearance outside the Centre Court and Court One big show courts for the likes of multiple former champions Murray and Williams.

British home favourite Murray, a former world number one, is easing his way back into tennis via the doubles after undergoing radical hip resurfacing surgery.

Andy Murray and Serena Williams' mixed doubles dream team came unstuck at Wimbledon on Wednesday when the star pairing were knocked out by the top seeds. The pair lost 6-3, 4-6, 6-2 to Bruno Soares of Brazil and Nicole Melichar of the United States, who progress to the quarter-finals.

Andy Murray and Serena Williams' mixed doubles dream team came unstuck at Wimbledon on Wednesday when the star pairing were knocked out by the top seeds. The pair lost 6-3, 4-6, 6-2 to Bruno Soares of Brazil and Nicole Melichar of the United States, who progress to the quarter-finals. The third-round match was played out on the 4,000-seater Court Two sunken bowl -- a rare appearance outside the Centre Court and Court One big show courts for the likes of multiple former champions Murray and Williams. British home favourite Murray, a former world number one, is easing his way back into tennis via the doubles after undergoing radical hip resurfacing surgery.

Andy Murray and Serena Williams' Wimbledon dream over

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-survives-riske-business-to-reach-wimbledon-semis-234457">Serena Williams</a> revealed Tuesday that she consulted a therapist after her infamous 2018 US Open final meltdown in which her bitter war of words with the umpire overshadowed Naomi Osaka's maiden Grand Slam victory.

The American superstar was widely vilified for her New York outburst in which she branded the chair umpire a "liar" and "thief".

She was handed a code violation for coaching,docked a point for smashing her racquet and penalised a game for verbal abuse.

"I couldn't find peace. I started seeing a therapist," Williams wrote in a first-person account published in US glossy magazine Harper's Bazaar.

"I was searching for answers, and although I felt like I was making progress, I still wasn't ready to pick up a racquet."

Williams's essay appeared online and on her own Instagram account in the middle of her Wimbledon quarter-final defeat of Alison Riske on Tuesday.

In it, she says she has apologised to Osaka, the breakout Japanese star who won the US Open final in straight sets.

"I am so proud of you and I am truly sorry. I thought I was doing the right thing in sticking up for myself. But I had no idea the media would pit us against each other," said the 37-year-old Williams.

"I would love the chance to live that moment over again. I am, was, and will always be happy for you and supportive of you.&nbsp;

"I would never, ever want the light to shine away from another female, specifically another black female athlete."

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Williams said that Osaka, who went on to take the Australian Open title and the world number one spot, had accepted her apology.

Osaka's reply, she insisted, had even moved her to tears.

Despite her apology, Williams still insists she was a victim of sexism at Flushing Meadows.

"Why is it that when women get passionate, they're labeled emotional, crazy, and irrational, but when men do they're seen as passionate and strong?

"So often, in situations similar to mine, when men fight back against the referees, they're met with a smile or even a laugh from the umpire, as if they're sharing an inside joke.&nbsp;

"I'm not asking to avoid being penalized. I am asking to be treated the same way as everyone else. Sadly, that's simply not the world we currently live in."

After partnering Andy Murray in the mixed doubles on Tuesday, the American said it had been a tough decision to seek counselling.

"It wasn't very easy. I've had a lot of things happen to me at that particular tournament in general," she explained.

"It was just important to always try to better yourself in any way that you can."

Serena Williams revealed Tuesday that she consulted a therapist after her infamous 2018 US Open final meltdown in which her bitter war of words with the umpire overshadowed Naomi Osaka's maiden Grand Slam victory.

Serena Williams revealed Tuesday that she consulted a therapist after her infamous 2018 US Open final meltdown in which her bitter war of words with the umpire overshadowed Naomi Osaka's maiden Grand Slam victory. The American superstar was widely vilified for her New York outburst in which she branded the chair umpire a "liar" and "thief". She was handed a code violation for coaching,docked a point for smashing her racquet and penalised a game for verbal abuse. "I couldn't find peace. I started seeing a therapist," Williams wrote in a first-person account published in US glossy magazine Harper's Bazaar. "I was searching for answers, and although I felt like I was making progress, I still wasn't ready to pick up a racquet." Williams's essay appeared online and on her own Instagram account in the middle of her Wimbledon quarter-final defeat of Alison Riske on Tuesday. In it, she says she has apologised to Osaka, the breakout Japanese star who won the US Open final in straight sets. "I am so proud of you and I am truly sorry. I thought I was doing the right thing in sticking up for myself. But I had no idea the media would pit us against each other," said the 37-year-old Williams. "I would love the chance to live that moment over again. I am, was, and will always be happy for you and supportive of you. "I would never, ever want the light to shine away from another female, specifically another black female athlete." A 12th semi-final appearance at The Championships awaits...#Wimbledon | @serenawilliamshttps://t.co/Xjet5pHKHU — Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 10, 2019 × Williams said that Osaka, who went on to take the Australian Open title and the world number one spot, had accepted her apology. Osaka's reply, she insisted, had even moved her to tears. Despite her apology, Williams still insists she was a victim of sexism at Flushing Meadows. "Why is it that when women get passionate, they're labeled emotional, crazy, and irrational, but when men do they're seen as passionate and strong? "So often, in situations similar to mine, when men fight back against the referees, they're met with a smile or even a laugh from the umpire, as if they're sharing an inside joke. "I'm not asking to avoid being penalized. I am asking to be treated the same way as everyone else. Sadly, that's simply not the world we currently live in." After partnering Andy Murray in the mixed doubles on Tuesday, the American said it had been a tough decision to seek counselling. "It wasn't very easy. I've had a lot of things happen to me at that particular tournament in general," she explained. "It was just important to always try to better yourself in any way that you can."

Serena Williams 'saw therapist' after US Open meltdown, apologised to Naomi Osaka

Serena Williams clubbed her way into the Wimbledon semi-finals, draining the last drop of fight from fellow American Alison Riske before sealing a 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 win in a rip-roaring Centre Court contest on Tuesday.

For two sets, Riske absorbed every last punishing blow from the seven-time&nbsp;champion, while her own lightweight jab inflicted some early pain and then levelled the see-saw encounter at 1-1.

Williams' blows, however, became too frequent and too heavy in the final games, with the weaponised serve pushing the world number 55 Riske back on her heels, while her return worked like an old slugger's right-hook.

Having knocked out world number one Ash Barty in the last round and having spent over nine hours on court en route to the quarters - the longest path to the last eight of anyone since 2011 - Riske had shown a streak of pure Pittsburgh steel.

But Williams, who is hunting down a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam singles title, is tennis tungsten, and recovered superbly from a brief wobble in which she lost the second set and fell a break behind in the third.

"I just needed to fight," said Williams. "She was not giving it to me. I needed to step up and take it. That's what I had to do."

She eventually charged over the finish line after more than two hours on court, bringing up match point when Riske netted a forehand and completing the job with her 19th ace of the match to set up a clash with either Johanna Konta or Barbora Strycova.

While the women's game is often exalted as being wildly unpredictable, Williams remains the exception to the rule and Tuesday's win secured her a 37th Grand Slam semi-final appearance.

She came into the quarters having won 96 singles matches at the All England Club, while the other seven players left in the draw had won 80 between them.

The discrepancy between Williams' achievements and those of Riske could not have been more stark.

The 29-year-old was playing her first Grand Slam quarter-final in her 30th major and had accumulated around $85 million less in prize money than Williams.

Yet the Pittsburgh native feels at home on grass and, with 11 of her 19 Grand Slam match wins coming at Wimbledon, she was never going to be a pushover for Williams, who is still feeling her way back after a niggling knee injury had limited her court time since the Australian Open in January.

Riske struck first, breaking in the third game before Williams had really got her legs into gear, but a 3-1 advantage was quickly wiped out as the 11th seed won five of the next six games to take the set.

The wild swings of momentum were briefly halted at the start of the second as the match went with serve until Williams lost hers in the ninth game.

In the blink of an eye she had lost the set and been broken again in the first game of the decider with the Centre Court crowd sniffing an upset.

The advantage then swung from player to player as Williams seized back the initiative to go 3-1 up and then seemed powerless as Riske moved her around the court, forcing a string of errors from the former world number one's racket.

Midway through the set, as the wind played havoc with her hair, Williams decided enough was enough, in more ways than one.

Pulling her hair into the tightest of buns at the changeover, she went about finishing off Riske with punishing efficiency.

"I just needed to get it out of the way, put the business bun up and just get to business," she said.

She put menacing pressure on the Riske serve, bringing up break point, before a double fault gave Williams a 5-3 lead, an advantage she was never going to relinquish.

Serena Williams clubbed her way into the Wimbledon semi-finals, draining the last drop of fight from fellow American Alison Riske before sealing a 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 win in a rip-roaring Centre Court contest on Tuesday.

Serena Williams clubbed her way into the Wimbledon semi-finals, draining the last drop of fight from fellow American Alison Riske before sealing a 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 win in a rip-roaring Centre Court contest on Tuesday. For two sets, Riske absorbed every last punishing blow from the seven-time champion, while her own lightweight jab inflicted some early pain and then levelled the see-saw encounter at 1-1. Williams' blows, however, became too frequent and too heavy in the final games, with the weaponised serve pushing the world number 55 Riske back on her heels, while her return worked like an old slugger's right-hook. Having knocked out world number one Ash Barty in the last round and having spent over nine hours on court en route to the quarters - the longest path to the last eight of anyone since 2011 - Riske had shown a streak of pure Pittsburgh steel. But Williams, who is hunting down a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam singles title, is tennis tungsten, and recovered superbly from a brief wobble in which she lost the second set and fell a break behind in the third. "I just needed to fight," said Williams. "She was not giving it to me. I needed to step up and take it. That's what I had to do." She eventually charged over the finish line after more than two hours on court, bringing up match point when Riske netted a forehand and completing the job with her 19th ace of the match to set up a clash with either Johanna Konta or Barbora Strycova. While the women's game is often exalted as being wildly unpredictable, Williams remains the exception to the rule and Tuesday's win secured her a 37th Grand Slam semi-final appearance. She came into the quarters having won 96 singles matches at the All England Club, while the other seven players left in the draw had won 80 between them. The discrepancy between Williams' achievements and those of Riske could not have been more stark. The 29-year-old was playing her first Grand Slam quarter-final in her 30th major and had accumulated around $85 million less in prize money than Williams. Yet the Pittsburgh native feels at home on grass and, with 11 of her 19 Grand Slam match wins coming at Wimbledon, she was never going to be a pushover for Williams, who is still feeling her way back after a niggling knee injury had limited her court time since the Australian Open in January. Riske struck first, breaking in the third game before Williams had really got her legs into gear, but a 3-1 advantage was quickly wiped out as the 11th seed won five of the next six games to take the set. The wild swings of momentum were briefly halted at the start of the second as the match went with serve until Williams lost hers in the ninth game. In the blink of an eye she had lost the set and been broken again in the first game of the decider with the Centre Court crowd sniffing an upset. The advantage then swung from player to player as Williams seized back the initiative to go 3-1 up and then seemed powerless as Riske moved her around the court, forcing a string of errors from the former world number one's racket. Midway through the set, as the wind played havoc with her hair, Williams decided enough was enough, in more ways than one. Pulling her hair into the tightest of buns at the changeover, she went about finishing off Riske with punishing efficiency. "I just needed to get it out of the way, put the business bun up and just get to business," she said. She put menacing pressure on the Riske serve, bringing up break point, before a double fault gave Williams a 5-3 lead, an advantage she was never going to relinquish.

Serena Williams survives Riske business to reach Wimbledon semis

Former world number one Simona Halep reached her second Wimbledon semi-final after overcoming an early onslaught to deliver another textbook example of matchplay tennis and dispatch China's unseeded Zhang Shuai 7-6(4), 6-1 on Tuesday.

Just as she did in quelling the lively challenge of 15-year-old Coco Gauff on Monday, Halep initially struggled and looked in real danger when 4-1 down and facing more break points in the opening set. However, the Romanian dug in to see off the threat then played her usual percentage tennis as Zhang lost her way.

Seventh-seed Halep faces either Ukrainian eighth seed Elina Svitolina or unseeded Czech Karolina Muchova, who were playing later on Tuesday, as she bids to reach the final for the first time having lost to Eugenie Bouchard in the last four in 2014.

"I was a little bit nervous before the match, a little bit stressed, I knew that she was going to come and hit the ball strongly, Halep said.

"With her the ball doesn't bounce that much so it's really tough to return. But I kept fighting. I knew that I had to be 100 per cent for every ball, then I could break her rhythm a little bit. It happened in the second set."

Zhang, who won the pair's last two meetings in 2016, is ranked 50th and has reached the quarter-finals in only one Grand Slam event - the 2016 Australian Open.

However, she started superbly, serving and returning with depth, power and confidence to break in the second game and race to a 4-1 lead. That looked set to be 5-1 but Halep battled and chased to save four break points in a key game that lasted over 10 minutes and turned the match.

Calculated Groundstrokes

The 27-year-old Romanian, last year's French Open champion, began to find her own rhythm, delivering the calculated, low-risk groundstrokes that wore down American Gauff to hold, then broke back via a double fault.

Zhang's double-handed backhand, so deadly in the opening games, began to pepper the tramlines as the inconsistency indicated by her poor Grand Slam record became evident.

She clung on to get to a tiebreak but was well beaten in it and an early break in the second set put Halep 3-1 up.

Zhang's head then dropped and the errors flowed as Halep rattled through the remaining games at a canter.

"I was happy to make the quarter-finals and I had a really good start today," said Zhang. "I was hitting a lot of winners but after the 4-1 game I made more mistakes and she found a really good rhythm. Everything started to change then."

Halep said she now feels much more comfortable on grass having struggled on many of her previous appearances.

"It's a little bit dangerous when you play on grass because the feet are not really stable but now I've started to feel it, to have it in my hands, to have it in my legs, and also in my mind, which is very important," she said.

"I'm doing things to make the court work for me, like playing a little bit wider, then the ball slides a little bit because it's a grass court.

"I try to adjust myself, my body, to this court. I just feel more confident now."

Former world number one Simona Halep reached her second Wimbledon semi-final after overcoming an early onslaught to deliver another textbook example of matchplay tennis and dispatch China's unseeded Zhang Shuai 7-6(4), 6-1 on Tuesday.

Former world number one Simona Halep reached her second Wimbledon semi-final after overcoming an early onslaught to deliver another textbook example of matchplay tennis and dispatch China's unseeded Zhang Shuai 7-6(4), 6-1 on Tuesday. Just as she did in quelling the lively challenge of 15-year-old Coco Gauff on Monday, Halep initially struggled and looked in real danger when 4-1 down and facing more break points in the opening set. However, the Romanian dug in to see off the threat then played her usual percentage tennis as Zhang lost her way. Seventh-seed Halep faces either Ukrainian eighth seed Elina Svitolina or unseeded Czech Karolina Muchova, who were playing later on Tuesday, as she bids to reach the final for the first time having lost to Eugenie Bouchard in the last four in 2014. "I was a little bit nervous before the match, a little bit stressed, I knew that she was going to come and hit the ball strongly, Halep said. "With her the ball doesn't bounce that much so it's really tough to return. But I kept fighting. I knew that I had to be 100 per cent for every ball, then I could break her rhythm a little bit. It happened in the second set." Zhang, who won the pair's last two meetings in 2016, is ranked 50th and has reached the quarter-finals in only one Grand Slam event - the 2016 Australian Open. However, she started superbly, serving and returning with depth, power and confidence to break in the second game and race to a 4-1 lead. That looked set to be 5-1 but Halep battled and chased to save four break points in a key game that lasted over 10 minutes and turned the match. Calculated Groundstrokes The 27-year-old Romanian, last year's French Open champion, began to find her own rhythm, delivering the calculated, low-risk groundstrokes that wore down American Gauff to hold, then broke back via a double fault. Zhang's double-handed backhand, so deadly in the opening games, began to pepper the tramlines as the inconsistency indicated by her poor Grand Slam record became evident. She clung on to get to a tiebreak but was well beaten in it and an early break in the second set put Halep 3-1 up. Zhang's head then dropped and the errors flowed as Halep rattled through the remaining games at a canter. "I was happy to make the quarter-finals and I had a really good start today," said Zhang. "I was hitting a lot of winners but after the 4-1 game I made more mistakes and she found a really good rhythm. Everything started to change then." Halep said she now feels much more comfortable on grass having struggled on many of her previous appearances. "It's a little bit dangerous when you play on grass because the feet are not really stable but now I've started to feel it, to have it in my hands, to have it in my legs, and also in my mind, which is very important," she said. "I'm doing things to make the court work for me, like playing a little bit wider, then the ball slides a little bit because it's a grass court. "I try to adjust myself, my body, to this court. I just feel more confident now."

Wimbledon: Simona Halep enters semis after defeating Zhang Shuai

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-roger-federer-bags-more-records-as-he-downs-lucas-pouille-to-reach-last-16-233734">Roger Federer</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-says-bernard-tomics-ps45000-wimbledon-penalty-unfair-233515">Novak Djokovic</a>, and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-rafael-nadals-to-battle-tough-tsonga-in-third-round-233484">Rafael Nadal</a> eased into the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-fined-10000-for-damaging-wimbledon-court-234198">Wimbledon</a> quarter-finals on Monday as the sport's Grand Slam heavyweights continued to deliver blow after blow to their wilting lightweight rivals.

Federer became the oldest man to reach a Grand Slam quarter-final in 28 years when he booked his place in the last-eight for the 17th time.

The eight-time champion breezed past Italy's Matteo Berrettini 6-1, 6-2, 6-2 in just 74 minutes to make sure of a spot in his 55th quarter-final at the Slams.

It was also his 99th win at the All England Club.

At 37, he is the oldest man to reach the last eight at the majors since 39-year-old Jimmy Connors at the 1991 US Open.

Federer, who hit 24 winners and just five unforced errors, will face Japan's Kei Nishikori for a place in the semi-finals.

Defending champion and world number one Djokovic reached his 11th Wimbledon quarter-final and 45th at the majors with a 6-3, 6-2, 6-3 win over France's Ugo Humbert.

Third seed Nadal, the 2008 and 2010 champion, swept to an easy 6-2, 6-2, 6-2 win over outclassed Joao Sousa of Portugal to book his place in a seventh quarter-final at the All England Club.

Between them, the 'Big Three' faced just one break point on Monday and dropped a combined 19 games.

"I'm really getting into a good groove now, today I was able to read his serve, get the returns back in play and hit well from the baseline," said Federer who could face Nadal in a blockbuster semi-final.

"I'm still getting used to the conditions also but on the performance, it was a really good match for me."

Japanese eighth seed Nishikori defeated Mikhail Kukushkin of Kazakhstan 6-3, 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 to reach the last eight for the second successive year.

The 29-year-old trails Federer 3-7 in career meetings although he won their most recent clash at the ATP Finals in London at the end of last season.

Four-time champion and top seed Djokovic will face Belgium's David Goffin for a place in the semi-finals.

Djokovic, 32, has a 5-1 career record over 21st seed Goffin who will be playing in his first Wimbledon quarter-final.

Humbert, the world number 66, had never played a match on grass before this season and was defeated in just one hour and 42 minutes.

"My plan always is to reach the final stages at Grand Slams," said Djokovic who converted five of nine break points on Monday.

"Wimbledon has been a special tournament that has motivated me throughout my life."

Nadal next plays Sam Querrey, against whom he holds a 4-1 record.

- 'Body holding well' - 
The 33-year-old Spaniard is chasing his 19th title at the majors, which would put him just one behind the record of 20 held by Federer.

"A lot of positive things out there. To be back in the quarter-finals is great news for me," said Nadal who took just three minutes more than Djokovic to complete his day's work.

Goffin matched his best-ever performance at the majors by reaching his first Wimbledon quarter-final.

The Belgian beat Spain's Fernando Verdasco 7-6 (11/9), 2-6, 6-3, 6-4.

"It's so tough to beat Novak in the best of five and especially here on the grass," admitted 28-year-old Goffin.

"Even for Roger, it will probably be the toughest challenge."

Also joining Nadal in the last-eight was his compatriot Roberto Bautista Agut who reached his first Wimbledon quarter-final and second at the majors this year when he defeated France's Benoit Paire 6-3, 7-5, 6-2.

The 31-year-old world number 22 will face either 2016 runner-up Milos Raonic of Canada or Argentina's Guido Pella for a place in the semi-finals.

Paire said he was seriously under-par.

"I have a tear in my abdominal, so I try to serve, like, 60%, 70%, but it's tough," said the Frenchman.

Bautista Agut, who has now defeated Paire seven times in seven meetings, also made the quarter-finals at the Australian Open in January.

With Federer, Djokovic, Nadal, Querrey and Bautista Agut all winning, there will be five 30-somethings in the last eight.

Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Rafael Nadal eased into the Wimbledon quarter-finals on Monday as the sport's Grand Slam heavyweights continued to deliver blow after blow to their wilting lightweight rivals.

Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Rafael Nadal eased into the Wimbledon quarter-finals on Monday as the sport's Grand Slam heavyweights continued to deliver blow after blow to their wilting lightweight rivals. Federer became the oldest man to reach a Grand Slam quarter-final in 28 years when he booked his place in the last-eight for the 17th time. The eight-time champion breezed past Italy's Matteo Berrettini 6-1, 6-2, 6-2 in just 74 minutes to make sure of a spot in his 55th quarter-final at the Slams. It was also his 99th win at the All England Club. At 37, he is the oldest man to reach the last eight at the majors since 39-year-old Jimmy Connors at the 1991 US Open. Federer, who hit 24 winners and just five unforced errors, will face Japan's Kei Nishikori for a place in the semi-finals. Defending champion and world number one Djokovic reached his 11th Wimbledon quarter-final and 45th at the majors with a 6-3, 6-2, 6-3 win over France's Ugo Humbert. Third seed Nadal, the 2008 and 2010 champion, swept to an easy 6-2, 6-2, 6-2 win over outclassed Joao Sousa of Portugal to book his place in a seventh quarter-final at the All England Club. Between them, the 'Big Three' faced just one break point on Monday and dropped a combined 19 games. "I'm really getting into a good groove now, today I was able to read his serve, get the returns back in play and hit well from the baseline," said Federer who could face Nadal in a blockbuster semi-final. "I'm still getting used to the conditions also but on the performance, it was a really good match for me." Japanese eighth seed Nishikori defeated Mikhail Kukushkin of Kazakhstan 6-3, 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 to reach the last eight for the second successive year. The 29-year-old trails Federer 3-7 in career meetings although he won their most recent clash at the ATP Finals in London at the end of last season. Four-time champion and top seed Djokovic will face Belgium's David Goffin for a place in the semi-finals. Djokovic, 32, has a 5-1 career record over 21st seed Goffin who will be playing in his first Wimbledon quarter-final. Humbert, the world number 66, had never played a match on grass before this season and was defeated in just one hour and 42 minutes. "My plan always is to reach the final stages at Grand Slams," said Djokovic who converted five of nine break points on Monday. "Wimbledon has been a special tournament that has motivated me throughout my life." Nadal next plays Sam Querrey, against whom he holds a 4-1 record. - 'Body holding well' - The 33-year-old Spaniard is chasing his 19th title at the majors, which would put him just one behind the record of 20 held by Federer. "A lot of positive things out there. To be back in the quarter-finals is great news for me," said Nadal who took just three minutes more than Djokovic to complete his day's work. Goffin matched his best-ever performance at the majors by reaching his first Wimbledon quarter-final. The Belgian beat Spain's Fernando Verdasco 7-6 (11/9), 2-6, 6-3, 6-4. "It's so tough to beat Novak in the best of five and especially here on the grass," admitted 28-year-old Goffin. "Even for Roger, it will probably be the toughest challenge." Also joining Nadal in the last-eight was his compatriot Roberto Bautista Agut who reached his first Wimbledon quarter-final and second at the majors this year when he defeated France's Benoit Paire 6-3, 7-5, 6-2. The 31-year-old world number 22 will face either 2016 runner-up Milos Raonic of Canada or Argentina's Guido Pella for a place in the semi-finals. Paire said he was seriously under-par. "I have a tear in my abdominal, so I try to serve, like, 60%, 70%, but it's tough," said the Frenchman. Bautista Agut, who has now defeated Paire seven times in seven meetings, also made the quarter-finals at the Australian Open in January. With Federer, Djokovic, Nadal, Querrey and Bautista Agut all winning, there will be five 30-somethings in the last eight.

Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal untroubled at Wimbledon as Monday proves not so manic

Technology helps Wimbledon to hook growing tennis-loving market in Asia, especially India

Double Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova began this year's tournament with questions over her fitness due to a niggling left forearm injury but the gutsy Czech has cast all doubts aside with a series of ruthless displays to march into the second week.

The 29-year-old missed the French Open and the Birmingham Classic due to the problem but has stormed into the last 16 at Wimbledon for the first time since her 2014 triumph and faces local favourite Johanna Konta on Monday.

"Yeah, definitely I played the best tennis today," Kvitova said after thumping Poland's Magda Linette 6-3, 6-2 on Saturday.

"I played aggressive. It was the key. I moved well. From the first point, I felt great... as I mentioned already many times before, the pain can come in the forearm and I have to retire.

"I'm taking it positive that I finished the match with the win. That's really important. I'm not looking too (far) ahead."

Kvitova, who returned to professional tennis in 2017 after recovering from severe wounds to her left, playing, hand as she struggled with an intruder in her home the previous year, has managed remarkable results at the All England Club this time despite the latest injury.

She has not dropped a set in three matches, spending only three hours and 34 minutes on court in total.

"Now my mind is more focused on the arm than on the tennis. It's difficult in the practices before, my arm getting tighter. I couldn't really hit it," the sixth seed added.

"I'm always worried about scenarios that come in the match. So far it's okay. I'm glad I can play without pain."

Konta, the only remaining Briton in the singles, is overcoming a dip in form that halted her progress last season following her rise to world number four in 2017.

The 28-year-old missed out on her first title of the season by losing finals in Rabat and Rome, before reaching the semi-finals of the French Open.

She defeated American Sloane Stephens 3-6, 6-4, 6-1 to set up a fifth meeting with Kvitova, who has beaten her three times.

"She's a two-time Wimbledon champion. Her favourite surface and best surface is grass. I'm going to be coming up against a very inspired and tough Petra," Konta said.

"Since coming back from that terrible thing that happened with her, she's playing unbelievable tennis. I'm looking forward to playing a great champion."

Double Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova began this year's tournament with questions over her fitness due to a niggling left forearm injury but the gutsy Czech has cast all doubts aside with a series of ruthless displays to march into the second week.

Double Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova began this year's tournament with questions over her fitness due to a niggling left forearm injury but the gutsy Czech has cast all doubts aside with a series of ruthless displays to march into the second week. The 29-year-old missed the French Open and the Birmingham Classic due to the problem but has stormed into the last 16 at Wimbledon for the first time since her 2014 triumph and faces local favourite Johanna Konta on Monday. "Yeah, definitely I played the best tennis today," Kvitova said after thumping Poland's Magda Linette 6-3, 6-2 on Saturday. "I played aggressive. It was the key. I moved well. From the first point, I felt great... as I mentioned already many times before, the pain can come in the forearm and I have to retire. "I'm taking it positive that I finished the match with the win. That's really important. I'm not looking too (far) ahead." Kvitova, who returned to professional tennis in 2017 after recovering from severe wounds to her left, playing, hand as she struggled with an intruder in her home the previous year, has managed remarkable results at the All England Club this time despite the latest injury. She has not dropped a set in three matches, spending only three hours and 34 minutes on court in total. "Now my mind is more focused on the arm than on the tennis. It's difficult in the practices before, my arm getting tighter. I couldn't really hit it," the sixth seed added. "I'm always worried about scenarios that come in the match. So far it's okay. I'm glad I can play without pain." Konta, the only remaining Briton in the singles, is overcoming a dip in form that halted her progress last season following her rise to world number four in 2017. The 28-year-old missed out on her first title of the season by losing finals in Rabat and Rome, before reaching the semi-finals of the French Open. She defeated American Sloane Stephens 3-6, 6-4, 6-1 to set up a fifth meeting with Kvitova, who has beaten her three times. "She's a two-time Wimbledon champion. Her favourite surface and best surface is grass. I'm going to be coming up against a very inspired and tough Petra," Konta said. "Since coming back from that terrible thing that happened with her, she's playing unbelievable tennis. I'm looking forward to playing a great champion."

Unstoppable Petra Kvitova faces Johanna Konta test in Wimbledon fourth round

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=roger+federer">Roger Federer</a> kept tennis statisticians on their toes on Saturday as he mopped up a few more records by trampling all over Lucas Pouille's dreams in a rip-roaring 7-5, 6-2, 7-6(4) win to reach the fourth round of Wimbledon.

The Swiss became the first player - man or woman - to win 350 singles matches at the majors.

But as the father of two sets of twins, Federer seems to have a penchant for doing things in pairs and Saturday was no different as he also set a professional era record of reaching the last 16 for the 17th time - surpassing the previous benchmark he had shared with Jimmy Connors.

The Swiss is unlikely to be popping champagne corks to celebrate either milestone, however, as he has his eyes firmly set on much, much bigger prizes - a record ninth Challenge Cup and a 21st Grand Slam title.

To get closer to that, however, he will first have to negotiate his way past Italian 17th seed Matteo Berrettini.

While the hollering fans gave Federer a standing ovation as he completed his 350th match win at the majors just a month shy of his 38th birthday, the world's favourite tennis son was more circumspect about the record.

"I know back in the amateur times, they were not playing all the slams because it was too far to travel to some places," said the Swiss after saluting the crowd which included Grand Slam champions of the calibre of Rod Laver, Billie Jean King and Martina Navratilova.

"It's a nice number to achieve and I have enjoyed my time at the slams. They've given me some of the most memorable and special moments on a tennis court, so of course it's nice winning that much.

"I don't know how many years I have got left but at the moment I am really enjoying myself. I love to move on the grass, it comes very naturally to me so for me to win today was great ... it's been wonderful."

Entertaining match

Australian Open semi-finalist Pouille was cheered on by his coach Amelie Mauresmo as he played his part in an entertaining match that was more keenly contested than the score suggests but he bowed out after netting a backhand on Federer's third match point.

Pouille had a break point at 3-3 in the first set and again at 5-5. A Federer in full flight had to hit three slam dunk smashes in a row to stay alive in the 11th game - an effort that lifted the roaring crowd to their feet.

Once he survived that mini wobble, he rolled through six successive games before Pouille unexpectedly ended the run by breaking the Federer serve. While it was not enough to rescue the second set, it gave the Frenchman the belief to fight on.

But sometimes belief is just not enough - especially when the man opposite you is closing in on a century of match wins at the All England Club - with Saturday being his 98th triumph.

"It was tough. It was a hard-fought match, especially in that first set. He had a break point at 5-all. It was a tough hold there and go on a little run there, that was nice," summed up Federer.

"That was maybe the key to the match. In the third it was tough, it was very even so there is always a relief winning a third set breaker because if it goes the other way, we might be here for another few hours."

Roger Federer kept tennis statisticians on their toes on Saturday as he mopped up a few more records by trampling all over Lucas Pouille's dreams in a rip-roaring 7-5, 6-2, 7-6(4) win to reach the fourth round of Wimbledon.

Roger Federer kept tennis statisticians on their toes on Saturday as he mopped up a few more records by trampling all over Lucas Pouille's dreams in a rip-roaring 7-5, 6-2, 7-6(4) win to reach the fourth round of Wimbledon. The Swiss became the first player - man or woman - to win 350 singles matches at the majors. But as the father of two sets of twins, Federer seems to have a penchant for doing things in pairs and Saturday was no different as he also set a professional era record of reaching the last 16 for the 17th time - surpassing the previous benchmark he had shared with Jimmy Connors. The Swiss is unlikely to be popping champagne corks to celebrate either milestone, however, as he has his eyes firmly set on much, much bigger prizes - a record ninth Challenge Cup and a 21st Grand Slam title. To get closer to that, however, he will first have to negotiate his way past Italian 17th seed Matteo Berrettini. While the hollering fans gave Federer a standing ovation as he completed his 350th match win at the majors just a month shy of his 38th birthday, the world's favourite tennis son was more circumspect about the record. "I know back in the amateur times, they were not playing all the slams because it was too far to travel to some places," said the Swiss after saluting the crowd which included Grand Slam champions of the calibre of Rod Laver, Billie Jean King and Martina Navratilova. "It's a nice number to achieve and I have enjoyed my time at the slams. They've given me some of the most memorable and special moments on a tennis court, so of course it's nice winning that much. "I don't know how many years I have got left but at the moment I am really enjoying myself. I love to move on the grass, it comes very naturally to me so for me to win today was great ... it's been wonderful." Entertaining match Australian Open semi-finalist Pouille was cheered on by his coach Amelie Mauresmo as he played his part in an entertaining match that was more keenly contested than the score suggests but he bowed out after netting a backhand on Federer's third match point. Pouille had a break point at 3-3 in the first set and again at 5-5. A Federer in full flight had to hit three slam dunk smashes in a row to stay alive in the 11th game - an effort that lifted the roaring crowd to their feet. Once he survived that mini wobble, he rolled through six successive games before Pouille unexpectedly ended the run by breaking the Federer serve. While it was not enough to rescue the second set, it gave the Frenchman the belief to fight on. But sometimes belief is just not enough - especially when the man opposite you is closing in on a century of match wins at the All England Club - with Saturday being his 98th triumph. "It was tough. It was a hard-fought match, especially in that first set. He had a break point at 5-all. It was a tough hold there and go on a little run there, that was nice," summed up Federer. "That was maybe the key to the match. In the third it was tough, it was very even so there is always a relief winning a third set breaker because if it goes the other way, we might be here for another few hours."

Wimbledon: Roger Federer bags more records as he downs Lucas Pouille to reach last 16

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-novak-djokovic-survives-hurricane-hurkacz-to-reach-last-16-233493">Novak Djokovic</a> blasted the decision to strip Bernard Tomic of his entire £45,000 ($56,000) Wimbledon prize money as "unfair."

The controversial Australian was punished by the All England Club for tanking in his first-round match which was over in just 58 minutes.

The 6-2, 6-1, 6-4 defeat to Jo-Wilfried Tsonga was the shortest men's match at the tournament.

"I don't think it's fair to take all his prize money away," said Djokovic on Friday.

"I have to see obviously his behaviour, movement on the court, how much effort he put in. He deserved his right to be in this tournament. He's a top 100 player.&nbsp;

"He's worked all year to be here. He deserves most of that prize money."

World number one and defending Wimbledon champion Djokovic, who is also the president of the ATP Player Council, believes other factors could have come into play which would have been mitigating.

"It's not nice for the crowd, the other players that maybe would want to be in the position to fight to get to the second round.&nbsp;

"But he played against Tsonga, who is a great player on grass."

Novak Djokovic blasted the decision to strip Bernard Tomic of his entire £45,000 ($56,000) Wimbledon prize money as "unfair." The controversial Australian was punished by the All England Club for tanking in his first-round match which was over in just 58 minutes.

Novak Djokovic blasted the decision to strip Bernard Tomic of his entire £45,000 ($56,000) Wimbledon prize money as "unfair." The controversial Australian was punished by the All England Club for tanking in his first-round match which was over in just 58 minutes. The 6-2, 6-1, 6-4 defeat to Jo-Wilfried Tsonga was the shortest men's match at the tournament. "I don't think it's fair to take all his prize money away," said Djokovic on Friday. "I have to see obviously his behaviour, movement on the court, how much effort he put in. He deserved his right to be in this tournament. He's a top 100 player. "He's worked all year to be here. He deserves most of that prize money." World number one and defending Wimbledon champion Djokovic, who is also the president of the ATP Player Council, believes other factors could have come into play which would have been mitigating. "It's not nice for the crowd, the other players that maybe would want to be in the position to fight to get to the second round. "But he played against Tsonga, who is a great player on grass."

Novak Djokovic says Bernard Tomic's £45,000 Wimbledon penalty 'unfair'

Simona Halep was supposedly having a 'chill' year, but for a little over an hour on Wimbledon's Centre Court the ice-cool Romanian was on fire as she swatted aside Victoria Azarenka 6-3, 6-1 on Friday to reach the fourth round.&nbsp;

Halep's form has understandably dipped since she won the French Open last year to lift the weighty millstone of several Grand Slam final failures and she said her intention in 2019 was to mentally ease off the throttle.&nbsp;

Yet any suggestion that her hunger had diminished was emphatically dispelled as she absorbed everything Azarenka could muster and then dismantled her fellow former world number one to progress for the loss of four games.&nbsp;

That statistic was all the more remarkable considering Azarenka, ranked 40th in the world, had broken in the fourth game of the first set to take a 3-1 lead, an advantage that was comprehensively erased.&nbsp;

Halep, who began the year as world number one, has slipped to seventh in the rankings, having reached the last eight only once in the last four majors, but there was plenty to suggest the claycourt specialist is a contender at the All England Club.&nbsp;

"I think was my best match this year. I played really well. I felt actually very confident. I've been aggressive all the match, even if I was 3-1 down first set," she said.&nbsp;

After suffering that early break, Halep won six straight games and from that point, there was no looking back.&nbsp;

Azarenka, who had dispatched her second-round opponent by winning 12 consecutive games, made only one further mark on the scoreboard against Halep, to level at 1-1 in the second set, before the Romanian put her foot to the floor to win five more games on the bounce.&nbsp;

She brought up three match points with a precise midcourt dropshot and, after spurning the first, put Azarenka out of her on-court misery, when the Belarusian netted a return.&nbsp;

For Azarenka, who only returned to the world's top 50 in February following the birth of her son at the end of 2016, it was a chastening experience.&nbsp;

Her frustrations were laid bare at times as she slammed her racket into the turf in the first set, receiving a code violation from the umpire, before she fell to her knees with head in hands after smacking a simple put-away into the net.

She later described the umpire's decision to apply the letter of the law when she threw her racket as "pathetic".

"It's like you have to be with no single emotion on the court, and that's just not tennis. I'm sorry, but it's not," she said.

Next up for ice-cool Halep is a potentially mouth-watering clash with Cori Gauff, providing the 15-year-old American can get past Polona Hercog.

Simona Halep was supposedly having a 'chill' year, but for a little over an hour on Wimbledon's Centre Court the ice-cool Romanian was on fire as she swatted aside Victoria Azarenka 6-3, 6-1 on Friday to reach the fourth round.

Simona Halep was supposedly having a 'chill' year, but for a little over an hour on Wimbledon's Centre Court the ice-cool Romanian was on fire as she swatted aside Victoria Azarenka 6-3, 6-1 on Friday to reach the fourth round. Halep's form has understandably dipped since she won the French Open last year to lift the weighty millstone of several Grand Slam final failures and she said her intention in 2019 was to mentally ease off the throttle. Yet any suggestion that her hunger had diminished was emphatically dispelled as she absorbed everything Azarenka could muster and then dismantled her fellow former world number one to progress for the loss of four games. That statistic was all the more remarkable considering Azarenka, ranked 40th in the world, had broken in the fourth game of the first set to take a 3-1 lead, an advantage that was comprehensively erased. Halep, who began the year as world number one, has slipped to seventh in the rankings, having reached the last eight only once in the last four majors, but there was plenty to suggest the claycourt specialist is a contender at the All England Club. "I think was my best match this year. I played really well. I felt actually very confident. I've been aggressive all the match, even if I was 3-1 down first set," she said. After suffering that early break, Halep won six straight games and from that point, there was no looking back. Azarenka, who had dispatched her second-round opponent by winning 12 consecutive games, made only one further mark on the scoreboard against Halep, to level at 1-1 in the second set, before the Romanian put her foot to the floor to win five more games on the bounce. She brought up three match points with a precise midcourt dropshot and, after spurning the first, put Azarenka out of her on-court misery, when the Belarusian netted a return. For Azarenka, who only returned to the world's top 50 in February following the birth of her son at the end of 2016, it was a chastening experience. Her frustrations were laid bare at times as she slammed her racket into the turf in the first set, receiving a code violation from the umpire, before she fell to her knees with head in hands after smacking a simple put-away into the net. She later described the umpire's decision to apply the letter of the law when she threw her racket as "pathetic". "It's like you have to be with no single emotion on the court, and that's just not tennis. I'm sorry, but it's not," she said. Next up for ice-cool Halep is a potentially mouth-watering clash with Cori Gauff, providing the 15-year-old American can get past Polona Hercog.

Wimbledon: Simona Halep defeats Victoria Azarenka to enter round four

Former world number one Karolina Pliskova served superbly to beat Hsieh Su-Wei 6-3, 2-6, 6-4 on Friday and reach the Wimbledon fourth round for the second time.

Czech third seed Pliskova fired down 14 aces on Court One to counter the unorthodox Hsieh's fast feet and soft hands, securing victory in an hour and 46 minutes.

"I thought my serve was amazing today... I'd love to call myself a specialist on grass," Pliskova said. "This year I'm doing better and I've made the second week.

"On grass she's a very tough opponent, she's done a good job the past couple of months and I'm just super pleased that I've made it," added Pliskova, who lost to Hsieh in Dubai this year.

"There's nobody like this playing any more in the draw so I think I'll feel much better in the next match after this test," Pliskova added.

Both players started the opening set strongly before an unusually untidy game by world number 16 Hsieh allowed Pliskova to claim a break for a 5-3 lead.

That was the opening the 27-year-old needed as she switched gears and closed out the set with her sixth ace.

Hsieh responded with an early break in the second set to race 4-2 ahead and the 33-year-old Taiwanese saved four break points in the seventh game before taking the match into a decider.

Pliskova, who beat last year's Wimbledon champion Angelique Kerber in the Eastbourne final last week, put Hsieh on the back foot with searing groundstrokes early in the third set to break for a 3-1 lead.

Appearing less rattled by Hsieh's variations as the match wore on, Pliskova staved off a late comeback attempt by Hsieh to close out victory.

Up next for Pliskova is Czech compatriot Karolina Muchova who beat 20th seed Anett Kontaveit 7-6(7), 6-3.

Former world number one Karolina Pliskova served superbly to beat Hsieh Su-Wei 6-3, 2-6, 6-4 on Friday and reach the Wimbledon fourth round for the second time. Czech third seed Pliskova fired down 14 aces on Court One to counter the unorthodox Hsieh's fast feet and soft hands, securing victory in an hour and 46 minutes.

Former world number one Karolina Pliskova served superbly to beat Hsieh Su-Wei 6-3, 2-6, 6-4 on Friday and reach the Wimbledon fourth round for the second time. Czech third seed Pliskova fired down 14 aces on Court One to counter the unorthodox Hsieh's fast feet and soft hands, securing victory in an hour and 46 minutes. "I thought my serve was amazing today... I'd love to call myself a specialist on grass," Pliskova said. "This year I'm doing better and I've made the second week. "On grass she's a very tough opponent, she's done a good job the past couple of months and I'm just super pleased that I've made it," added Pliskova, who lost to Hsieh in Dubai this year. "There's nobody like this playing any more in the draw so I think I'll feel much better in the next match after this test," Pliskova added. Both players started the opening set strongly before an unusually untidy game by world number 16 Hsieh allowed Pliskova to claim a break for a 5-3 lead. That was the opening the 27-year-old needed as she switched gears and closed out the set with her sixth ace. Hsieh responded with an early break in the second set to race 4-2 ahead and the 33-year-old Taiwanese saved four break points in the seventh game before taking the match into a decider. Pliskova, who beat last year's Wimbledon champion Angelique Kerber in the Eastbourne final last week, put Hsieh on the back foot with searing groundstrokes early in the third set to break for a 3-1 lead. Appearing less rattled by Hsieh's variations as the match wore on, Pliskova staved off a late comeback attempt by Hsieh to close out victory. Up next for Pliskova is Czech compatriot Karolina Muchova who beat 20th seed Anett Kontaveit 7-6(7), 6-3.

Wimbledon: Karolina Pliskova beats Hsieh to enter last 16

Naomi Osaka's bid to win a third Grand Slam title came to a premature end on Monday when she lost to Kazakh Yulia Putintseva, 7-6 (7/4), 6-2 in the first round.&nbsp;

The 21-year-old Japanese said she had felt a weight lifted from her after losing her number one world ranking but it did not show against a talented opponent on Centre Court.&nbsp;

Indeed Putintseva simply franked the form from the recent Birmingham tournament where she had beaten the US Open and Australian Open champion in the second round.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
"The biggest win of her career" 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/PutintsevaYulia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PutintsevaYulia</a> upsets world No.2 Naomi Osaka 7-6(4), 6-2 on Centre Court to book her second round spot <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Wimbledon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Wimbledon</a> <a href="https://t.co/PQQYpFsQqu">pic.twitter.com/PQQYpFsQqu</a>
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) <a href="https://twitter.com/Wimbledon/status/1145726694755635200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Match Stats:

Putintseva 2-Osaka

Aces 3 3 
Double faults 3 1 
Breakpoints won 3/7 1/4 
Net points won 1/3 13/20 
Winners 15 34 
Unforced errors 7 38 
Total points won 74 67 
Match duration: one hour and 35 minutes

Naomi Osaka's bid to win a third Grand Slam title came to a premature end on Monday when she lost to Kazakh Yulia Putintseva, 7-6 (7/4), 6-2 in the first round. The 21-year-old Japanese said she had felt a weight lifted from her after losing her number one world ranking but it did not show against a talented opponent on Centre Court.

Naomi Osaka's bid to win a third Grand Slam title came to a premature end on Monday when she lost to Kazakh Yulia Putintseva, 7-6 (7/4), 6-2 in the first round. The 21-year-old Japanese said she had felt a weight lifted from her after losing her number one world ranking but it did not show against a talented opponent on Centre Court. Indeed Putintseva simply franked the form from the recent Birmingham tournament where she had beaten the US Open and Australian Open champion in the second round. "The biggest win of her career" 👏@PutintsevaYulia upsets world No.2 Naomi Osaka 7-6(4), 6-2 on Centre Court to book her second round spot #Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/PQQYpFsQqu — Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 1, 2019 × Match Stats: Putintseva 2-Osaka Aces 3 3 Double faults 3 1 Breakpoints won 3/7 1/4 Net points won 1/3 13/20 Winners 15 34 Unforced errors 7 38 Total points won 74 67 Match duration: one hour and 35 minutes

Second seed Naomi Osaka crashes out in first round of Wimbledon

Novak Djokovic got the defence of his Wimbledon title off to an impressive start when, serving superbly, he overwhelmed Germany's Philipp Kohlschreiber in straight sets in the first match on Centre Court on Monday.

After a few early wobbles Djokovic triumphed 6-3, 7-5, 6-3 as, perhaps already buoyed by the presence of new coach Goran Ivanisevic, he really hit the mark with his serves.

"He's someone I've always looked up to and we've been friends for a long time - though usually on the opposite side of the net," Djokovic said of the 2001 champion who has come on board as part of his coaching team.

"He's coached lots of great players, so it's great to have him on my side. He's going to stay for sure through the first week then we'll see. It's a great pleasure to have such a champion and hopefully, we can have a long collaboration."

Djokovic, 32, came into the tournament having decided not to play a grass-court warm-up event and he must have been a little edgy having lost to Kohlschreiber in straight sets on the hard courts of Indian Wells earlier this year.

For a man not so well known outside tennis circles, 35-year-old Kohlschreiber has a long, if not particularly distinguished, career.

This Wimbledon was his 60th grand slam event - putting him joint-ninth in the open-era on the appearances list. It was also his 15th successive Wimbledon, but Monday's two-hour show marked the ninth time he had failed to get past the first round.

The champion made an inauspicious start, double-faulting his first serve en route to being broken, but quickly found his feet to reel off the next four games and win the first set 6-3.

Kohlschreiber found his length with more consistency in the second and the two traded heavy blows in crowd-pleasing rallies not often seen these days on the grass.

At 4-4 the German saved three break points - the last courtesy of a successful challenge - only to drop his next service game as Djokovic served out for 7-5 and a two-set lead.

The early stages of the third set were also entertainingly well-fought, with both men nailing the baseline with huge power until Djokovic really found his serving rhythm to take command and wrap up the match by taking it 6-3.

"It felt great, it's the sacred court, the cradle of our sport and it has a special place in my heart and my career," Djokovic said.

"Opening round matches are always tricky, he has a lot of experience and beat me this year. I know he can play good quality tennis, he takes the ball early, so it was a great test for me and all three sets were pretty close."

Novak Djokovic got the defence of his Wimbledon title off to an impressive start when, serving superbly, he overwhelmed Germany's Philipp Kohlschreiber in straight sets in the first match on Centre Court on Monday.

Novak Djokovic got the defence of his Wimbledon title off to an impressive start when, serving superbly, he overwhelmed Germany's Philipp Kohlschreiber in straight sets in the first match on Centre Court on Monday. After a few early wobbles Djokovic triumphed 6-3, 7-5, 6-3 as, perhaps already buoyed by the presence of new coach Goran Ivanisevic, he really hit the mark with his serves. "He's someone I've always looked up to and we've been friends for a long time - though usually on the opposite side of the net," Djokovic said of the 2001 champion who has come on board as part of his coaching team. "He's coached lots of great players, so it's great to have him on my side. He's going to stay for sure through the first week then we'll see. It's a great pleasure to have such a champion and hopefully, we can have a long collaboration." Djokovic, 32, came into the tournament having decided not to play a grass-court warm-up event and he must have been a little edgy having lost to Kohlschreiber in straight sets on the hard courts of Indian Wells earlier this year. For a man not so well known outside tennis circles, 35-year-old Kohlschreiber has a long, if not particularly distinguished, career. This Wimbledon was his 60th grand slam event - putting him joint-ninth in the open-era on the appearances list. It was also his 15th successive Wimbledon, but Monday's two-hour show marked the ninth time he had failed to get past the first round. The champion made an inauspicious start, double-faulting his first serve en route to being broken, but quickly found his feet to reel off the next four games and win the first set 6-3. Kohlschreiber found his length with more consistency in the second and the two traded heavy blows in crowd-pleasing rallies not often seen these days on the grass. At 4-4 the German saved three break points - the last courtesy of a successful challenge - only to drop his next service game as Djokovic served out for 7-5 and a two-set lead. The early stages of the third set were also entertainingly well-fought, with both men nailing the baseline with huge power until Djokovic really found his serving rhythm to take command and wrap up the match by taking it 6-3. "It felt great, it's the sacred court, the cradle of our sport and it has a special place in my heart and my career," Djokovic said. "Opening round matches are always tricky, he has a lot of experience and beat me this year. I know he can play good quality tennis, he takes the ball early, so it was a great test for me and all three sets were pretty close."

Wimbledon: Novak Djokovic sweeps through under keen gaze of Ivanisevic

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