Stan Wawrinka was barely mentioned in the Wimbledon build-up with all the focus on the men's "big three" and the young guns hoping to shake things up but the Swiss means business.

Outside of eight-time champion Roger Federer, twice winner Rafael Nadal and defending champion Novak Djokovic, Wawrinka is the only other multiple Grand Slam champion in the draw.

With the weapons at his disposal, a beefy serve and a sublime backhand and a big match mentality, Wawrinka should at least part of the conversation when it comes to discussing contenders to make a deep run this fortnight.

The 34-year-old needs a Wimbledon title to complete his career Grand Slam and while, for whatever reason, he has never thrived on the All England Club lawns, he looked razor sharp as he began his 15th successive appearance.

On a sunny Court Two against Belgian qualifier Ruben Bemelmans he belted 26 winners in a 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 victory that took less than an hour and a half.

Admittedly left-hander Bemelmans, ranked 171, was having a decidedly ordinary day with his forehand misfiring completely but it was a powerful statement by Wawrinka nonetheless.

A year ago Wawrinka arrived at Wimbledon ranked outside the top 200 having had knee surgery after the 2017 Championships.

On that occasion he beat Grigor Dimitrov in the opening round but then lost to qualifier Tomas Fabbiano.

Surprisingly for a player of his class Wawrinka has only reached two quarter-finals at Wimbledon, in 2014 when he lost to Roger Federer and in 2015 when beaten by Richard Gasquet.

It is his worst Grand Slam, with his win over Bemelmans improving his career record there to 20-14, compared to 42-14 at Roland Garros, 40-12 at the US&nbsp;Open and 38-13 in Australia.

He has not been into the third round since 2015 and to end that sequence he will have a stern test next against giant American Reilly Opelka.

Stan Wawrinka was barely mentioned in the Wimbledon build-up with all the focus on the men's "big three" and the young guns hoping to shake things up but the Swiss means business.

Stan Wawrinka was barely mentioned in the Wimbledon build-up with all the focus on the men's "big three" and the young guns hoping to shake things up but the Swiss means business. Outside of eight-time champion Roger Federer, twice winner Rafael Nadal and defending champion Novak Djokovic, Wawrinka is the only other multiple Grand Slam champion in the draw. With the weapons at his disposal, a beefy serve and a sublime backhand and a big match mentality, Wawrinka should at least part of the conversation when it comes to discussing contenders to make a deep run this fortnight. The 34-year-old needs a Wimbledon title to complete his career Grand Slam and while, for whatever reason, he has never thrived on the All England Club lawns, he looked razor sharp as he began his 15th successive appearance. On a sunny Court Two against Belgian qualifier Ruben Bemelmans he belted 26 winners in a 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 victory that took less than an hour and a half. Admittedly left-hander Bemelmans, ranked 171, was having a decidedly ordinary day with his forehand misfiring completely but it was a powerful statement by Wawrinka nonetheless. A year ago Wawrinka arrived at Wimbledon ranked outside the top 200 having had knee surgery after the 2017 Championships. On that occasion he beat Grigor Dimitrov in the opening round but then lost to qualifier Tomas Fabbiano. Surprisingly for a player of his class Wawrinka has only reached two quarter-finals at Wimbledon, in 2014 when he lost to Roger Federer and in 2015 when beaten by Richard Gasquet. It is his worst Grand Slam, with his win over Bemelmans improving his career record there to 20-14, compared to 42-14 at Roland Garros, 40-12 at the US Open and 38-13 in Australia. He has not been into the third round since 2015 and to end that sequence he will have a stern test next against giant American Reilly Opelka.

Wimbledon: Stan Wawrinka means business as he opens with easy victory

Serena Williams will bring her quest for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title to Wimbledon next week where she will try to shake off a nagging knee injury and show the tennis world that her window of opportunity is still open.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williamss-pursuit-of-24th-major-title-on-hold-after-french-open-exit-223516">Williams </a>has been stuck on 23 Grand Slam titles, one behind the all-time record held by Margaret Court, for over two years and has shown little evidence of late that she will be able to snap that drought at the All England Club.

"As long as she's playing, she's going to be a threat to win anything,"&nbsp;former world number one John McEnroe told a conference call.

"But it's just now there's more things that can go wrong, I suppose, like more days where she might not have it and other days where players won't give in as easily. So that just makes it more difficult,"&nbsp;McEnroe said.

The 37-year-old American's time on court has been limited to a handful of matches since the Australian Open in January due in part to a knee injury that kept her from competing in a tune-up event ahead of Wimbledon, where action begins on July 1.

After losing in the third round at the French Open, Williams did not exactly sound her confident self when asked if she would have enough time to get in optimal shape for Wimbledon, where she is a seven-times winner.

"I hope so. I'm still working on it and working on getting there. So I think it will be, I think it be enough time. We'll see, but I definitely hope so," said Williams.

When Williams was at the peak of her career, she was so far above the competition that she could barrel her way through a Grand Slam draw even if she was having an off day.

But the combination of injury, a limited playing schedule and an increased standard of women's tennis over the past few years have left many to question whether she can again triumph in one of tennis' blue riband events.

TWO STEPS SLOWER

Williams won the most recent of her Grand Slam titles at the 2017 Australian Open when she was in the early stages of her pregnancy, which led to her taking a year off from competition.

She came <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-2018-3-major-appearances-2-grand-slam-finals-and-an-infamous-controversy-185799&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiq1I7ulInjAhXaknAKHVjmBcoQFjAHegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1iQSXWVZXGlW1enWH2gUCE">back with a bang in 2018</a> and despite not playing at her best managed to reach the final at both Wimbledon and the US&nbsp;Open.

"It's hard for me to bet against Serena. Look what happened last year: Two finals in Grand Slams," said 18-times Grand Slam champion Chris Evert.

"The one difference that I see in Serena is since she's come back, she's been one or two steps slower than normal. I think that's a little bit of fitness. I think it's a little bit of match play. I think it's a little bit of confidence,"&nbsp;Evert said.

Healthy legs are key to any player's game but perhaps even more vital for someone like <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-says-thiem-right-to-fume-over-serena-williams-press-conference-row-223698&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiq1I7ulInjAhXaknAKHVjmBcoQFjAEegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3ALgZq_sAxw7aSNvXqPi17">Williams </a>who relies heavily on her physicality and court coverage to set up big shots.

Williams has been unable to deliver her trademark big serves on a consistent basis of late but will likely take comfort in the friendly confines of the All England Club given she is most effective on grass.

But unlike in her prime, Williams' rivals know she is not the same player she once was and do not walk onto the court nearly as intimated as they once were when facing one of the game's all-time greats.

"There's so many things that may be going against Serena, and she thrives on that, and she loves that, and that's when she comes through," said Evert.

"I would have said in January, if there was any Grand Slam she was going to win, it would probably be Wimbledon ... and if her serve is on, she's going to be tough to beat," added&nbsp;Evert.

Serena Williams will bring her quest for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title to Wimbledon next week where she will try to shake off a nagging knee injury and show the tennis world that her window of opportunity is still open.

Serena Williams will bring her quest for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title to Wimbledon next week where she will try to shake off a nagging knee injury and show the tennis world that her window of opportunity is still open. Williams has been stuck on 23 Grand Slam titles, one behind the all-time record held by Margaret Court, for over two years and has shown little evidence of late that she will be able to snap that drought at the All England Club. "As long as she's playing, she's going to be a threat to win anything," former world number one John McEnroe told a conference call. "But it's just now there's more things that can go wrong, I suppose, like more days where she might not have it and other days where players won't give in as easily. So that just makes it more difficult," McEnroe said. The 37-year-old American's time on court has been limited to a handful of matches since the Australian Open in January due in part to a knee injury that kept her from competing in a tune-up event ahead of Wimbledon, where action begins on July 1. After losing in the third round at the French Open, Williams did not exactly sound her confident self when asked if she would have enough time to get in optimal shape for Wimbledon, where she is a seven-times winner. "I hope so. I'm still working on it and working on getting there. So I think it will be, I think it be enough time. We'll see, but I definitely hope so," said Williams. When Williams was at the peak of her career, she was so far above the competition that she could barrel her way through a Grand Slam draw even if she was having an off day. But the combination of injury, a limited playing schedule and an increased standard of women's tennis over the past few years have left many to question whether she can again triumph in one of tennis' blue riband events. TWO STEPS SLOWER Williams won the most recent of her Grand Slam titles at the 2017 Australian Open when she was in the early stages of her pregnancy, which led to her taking a year off from competition. She came back with a bang in 2018 and despite not playing at her best managed to reach the final at both Wimbledon and the US Open. "It's hard for me to bet against Serena. Look what happened last year: Two finals in Grand Slams," said 18-times Grand Slam champion Chris Evert. "The one difference that I see in Serena is since she's come back, she's been one or two steps slower than normal. I think that's a little bit of fitness. I think it's a little bit of match play. I think it's a little bit of confidence," Evert said. Healthy legs are key to any player's game but perhaps even more vital for someone like Williams who relies heavily on her physicality and court coverage to set up big shots. Williams has been unable to deliver her trademark big serves on a consistent basis of late but will likely take comfort in the friendly confines of the All England Club given she is most effective on grass. But unlike in her prime, Williams' rivals know she is not the same player she once was and do not walk onto the court nearly as intimated as they once were when facing one of the game's all-time greats. "There's so many things that may be going against Serena, and she thrives on that, and she loves that, and that's when she comes through," said Evert. "I would have said in January, if there was any Grand Slam she was going to win, it would probably be Wimbledon ... and if her serve is on, she's going to be tough to beat," added Evert.

Serena Williams hopes to end two-year grand slam drought at Wimbledon

Boris Becker auctions trophies to pay off debts

Ashleigh Barty will become the first Australian woman to be ranked world number one in more than 40 years if she beats her doubles partner Julia Goerges in the final of the Nature Valley Classic in Birmingham on Sunday.

The 23-year-old, fresh from her maiden Grand Slam triumph at the French Open, has not dropped a set all week and an 11th successive victory will see her displace Japan's Naomi Osaka in top spot and emulate Evonne Goolagong's feat from 1976.

Barty sent down 11 aces and fired 24 winners on Saturday to dispatch world number 51 Barbora Strycova from the Czech Republic 6-4, 6-4.

"I have to try and do what I can do and that is prepare and do as best that I can tomorrow and try and play a good tennis match and if I win, it's a bonus," said Barty, who is seeking her sixth WTA tour title at an event where she was runner-up to Petra Kvitova in 2017.

"There are all things that come with it. But those things are certainly not what I'm worried about. It is not going to change the way that I sleep at night, if I don't get there or not. If it happens, it happens. If it doesn't, it doesn't."

Should she win, Barty will join the select company as the only other female players to win the singles title at Roland Garros and their next event on British grass courts have been Serena Williams, Steffi Graf (four times), Martina Navratilova, Chris Evert and Margaret Court.

But Goerges has also hit rich form and beat Petra Martic 6-4, 6-3 in the other semi-final.

Barty and Goerges, who has yet to win a title on grass but last year reached the Wimbledon semi-finals, have a 1-1 head-to-head record but the Australian won their previous clash en route to claiming the Zhuhai crown last year.

If Barty loses the final, she will be two points short of catching Osaka – the smallest margin between the top two ranked players since WTA rankings began.

Ashleigh Barty will become the first Australian woman to be ranked world number one in more than 40 years if she beats her doubles partner Julia Goerges in the final of the Nature Valley Classic in Birmingham on Sunday.

Ashleigh Barty will become the first Australian woman to be ranked world number one in more than 40 years if she beats her doubles partner Julia Goerges in the final of the Nature Valley Classic in Birmingham on Sunday. The 23-year-old, fresh from her maiden Grand Slam triumph at the French Open, has not dropped a set all week and an 11th successive victory will see her displace Japan's Naomi Osaka in top spot and emulate Evonne Goolagong's feat from 1976. Barty sent down 11 aces and fired 24 winners on Saturday to dispatch world number 51 Barbora Strycova from the Czech Republic 6-4, 6-4. "I have to try and do what I can do and that is prepare and do as best that I can tomorrow and try and play a good tennis match and if I win, it's a bonus," said Barty, who is seeking her sixth WTA tour title at an event where she was runner-up to Petra Kvitova in 2017. "There are all things that come with it. But those things are certainly not what I'm worried about. It is not going to change the way that I sleep at night, if I don't get there or not. If it happens, it happens. If it doesn't, it doesn't." Should she win, Barty will join the select company as the only other female players to win the singles title at Roland Garros and their next event on British grass courts have been Serena Williams, Steffi Graf (four times), Martina Navratilova, Chris Evert and Margaret Court. But Goerges has also hit rich form and beat Petra Martic 6-4, 6-3 in the other semi-final. Barty and Goerges, who has yet to win a title on grass but last year reached the Wimbledon semi-finals, have a 1-1 head-to-head record but the Australian won their previous clash en route to claiming the Zhuhai crown last year. If Barty loses the final, she will be two points short of catching Osaka – the smallest margin between the top two ranked players since WTA rankings began.

Ashleigh Barty a win away from world number one

India's ace cueist Pankaj Advani added another feather in his career cap by winning the Asian Snooker Championship on Friday.

Advani also completes the career grand slam with the victory.

In the final, Advani defeated current Asian 6 Red champion, Thanawat Thirapongpaiboon of Thailand 6 frames to 3.

Just like the previous match, the final game was also not easy for Advani as he faced tough competition from Thanawat in initial frames.

Thanawat obtained 2 frames lead having a quality break of 97 in second.

He further made one more break of 75 in the fourth frame to take the lead to 3-1.

From there, Advani showed his master class and delivered a complete package of snooker.

He ruled out any kind of silly mistake, unforced errors and spent quality time on safety too.

With all that he kept winning frames over a frame and finally knocked out Thanawat 6-3 to lift Asian Snooker trophy.

The 33-year-old has now completed his trophy cabinet with all titles from Asia and the World.

In his 16 years International career with 21 world title and 9 Asian titles in different formats of Cue sports, his only title awaited was Asian Snooker, which he finally claimed.

India's ace cueist Pankaj Advani added another feather in his career cap by winning the Asian Snooker Championship on Friday. Advani also completes the career grand slam with the victory.

India's ace cueist Pankaj Advani added another feather in his career cap by winning the Asian Snooker Championship on Friday. Advani also completes the career grand slam with the victory. In the final, Advani defeated current Asian 6 Red champion, Thanawat Thirapongpaiboon of Thailand 6 frames to 3. Just like the previous match, the final game was also not easy for Advani as he faced tough competition from Thanawat in initial frames. Thanawat obtained 2 frames lead having a quality break of 97 in second. He further made one more break of 75 in the fourth frame to take the lead to 3-1. From there, Advani showed his master class and delivered a complete package of snooker. He ruled out any kind of silly mistake, unforced errors and spent quality time on safety too. With all that he kept winning frames over a frame and finally knocked out Thanawat 6-3 to lift Asian Snooker trophy. The 33-year-old has now completed his trophy cabinet with all titles from Asia and the World. In his 16 years International career with 21 world title and 9 Asian titles in different formats of Cue sports, his only title awaited was Asian Snooker, which he finally claimed.

India's Pankaj Advani wins Asian Snooker Championship to register career grand slam

'It's very special,' says Rafael Nadal on historic French Open title

When <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-cricketer-to-grand-slam-winner-ashleigh-bartys-journey-is-inspiring-225626">Ash Barty won the French Open title</a> on Saturday she thought she was the first Australian woman to lift the Coupe Suzanne Lenglen since Margaret Court in 1973.

According to the trophy, though, there was also an Australian champion in 1976.

Clearly, nobody has told Sue Barker, the Briton who triumphed in Paris 43 years ago.

Barker, now aged 63 and from Paignton in south-west England, is a sports presenter in UK.

Back in 1976 she was a rising star and recorded her best Grand Slam result by winning in Paris aged 20, beating Czech Renata Tomanova in the final.

She reached the semi-finals of Wimbledon and the Australian Open the following year but never again played a Grand Slam final.

Galling, then, perhaps that her one moment of Grand Slam glory has been recorded for posterity on the trophy with the letters 'AUST' next to her name, denoting Australia rather than the 'GBR' for Britain.

It is not the only error on the trophy as under Barker comes 1977 champion Mima Jausovec, whose name is mis-spelt 'Jausevec'.

The name of the women's doubles trophy, the Coupe Simonne Mathieu, created in 1990, has also been mis-spelt 'Simone Mathieu' on the plaque and on the cup itself.

French Open organisers told Reuters on Sunday that the mistakes would be fixed.&nbsp;

When Ash Barty won the French Open title on Saturday she thought she was the first Australian woman to lift the Coupe Suzanne Lenglen since Margaret Court in 1973.

When Ash Barty won the French Open title on Saturday she thought she was the first Australian woman to lift the Coupe Suzanne Lenglen since Margaret Court in 1973. According to the trophy, though, there was also an Australian champion in 1976. Clearly, nobody has told Sue Barker, the Briton who triumphed in Paris 43 years ago. Barker, now aged 63 and from Paignton in south-west England, is a sports presenter in UK. Back in 1976 she was a rising star and recorded her best Grand Slam result by winning in Paris aged 20, beating Czech Renata Tomanova in the final. She reached the semi-finals of Wimbledon and the Australian Open the following year but never again played a Grand Slam final. Galling, then, perhaps that her one moment of Grand Slam glory has been recorded for posterity on the trophy with the letters 'AUST' next to her name, denoting Australia rather than the 'GBR' for Britain. It is not the only error on the trophy as under Barker comes 1977 champion Mima Jausovec, whose name is mis-spelt 'Jausevec'. The name of the women's doubles trophy, the Coupe Simonne Mathieu, created in 1990, has also been mis-spelt 'Simone Mathieu' on the plaque and on the cup itself. French Open organisers told Reuters on Sunday that the mistakes would be fixed.

French Open red-faced over 43-year trophy error

Rafael Nadal might have <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-win-french-open-title-225750">won a 12th Roland Garros title</a> on the weekend, but he remains well behind Novak Djokovic, a semi-finalist in Paris, in ATP rankings released Monday.

Austrian Dominic Thiem, whom Nadal beat in Sunday's final, keeps his fourth place behind Switzerland's Roger Federer, who went down to the Spaniard in the last-four on his first appearance in Paris since 2015.

Russian Karen Khachanov jumped two spots into a personal best of ninth thanks to his achievement in reaching the French Open quarter-finals.

Italy's Fabio Fognini, also a quarter-finalist at Roland Garros and winner in Monte-Carlo in April, also moved up two places to 10th.

The biggest mover in the top 20 was Switzerland's Stan Wawrinka, whose quarter-final defeat by Federer in Paris was enough to see him go up nine places into 19th.

Watch&nbsp;Rafael Nadal's all winning moments at French Open:

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ATP ranking as of June 10, 2019

1. Novak Djokovic (SRB) 12,715 pts

2. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 7,945

3. Roger Federer (SUI) 6,670

4. Dominic Thiem (AUT) 4,685

5. Alexander Zverev (GER) 4,360

6. Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE) 4,215

7. Kei Nishikori (JPN) 4,040

8. Kevin Anderson (RSA) 3,565

9. Karen Khachanov (RUS) 2,980 (+2)

10. Fabio Fognini (ITA) 2,785 (+2)

11. John Isner (USA) 2,715 (-1)

12. Juan Martin Del Potro (ARG) 2,695 (-3)

13. Daniil Medvedev (RUS) 2,625 (+1)

14. Borna Coric (CRO) 2,525 (+1)

15. Marin Cilic (CRO) 2,395 (-2)

16. Gael Monfils (FRA) 2,055 (+1)

17. Nikoloz Basilashvili (GEO) 1,970 (-1)

18. Milos Raonic (CAN) 1,960

19. Stan Wawrinka (SUI) 1,715 (+9)

20 Roberto Bautista Agut (ESP) 1,690 (+1)

Rafael Nadal might have won a 12th Roland Garros title on the weekend, but he remains well behind Novak Djokovic, a semi-finalist in Paris, in ATP rankings released Monday.

Rafael Nadal might have won a 12th Roland Garros title on the weekend, but he remains well behind Novak Djokovic, a semi-finalist in Paris, in ATP rankings released Monday. Austrian Dominic Thiem, whom Nadal beat in Sunday's final, keeps his fourth place behind Switzerland's Roger Federer, who went down to the Spaniard in the last-four on his first appearance in Paris since 2015. Russian Karen Khachanov jumped two spots into a personal best of ninth thanks to his achievement in reaching the French Open quarter-finals. Italy's Fabio Fognini, also a quarter-finalist at Roland Garros and winner in Monte-Carlo in April, also moved up two places to 10th. The biggest mover in the top 20 was Switzerland's Stan Wawrinka, whose quarter-final defeat by Federer in Paris was enough to see him go up nine places into 19th. Watch Rafael Nadal's all winning moments at French Open: × ATP ranking as of June 10, 2019 1. Novak Djokovic (SRB) 12,715 pts 2. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 7,945 3. Roger Federer (SUI) 6,670 4. Dominic Thiem (AUT) 4,685 5. Alexander Zverev (GER) 4,360 6. Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE) 4,215 7. Kei Nishikori (JPN) 4,040 8. Kevin Anderson (RSA) 3,565 9. Karen Khachanov (RUS) 2,980 (+2) 10. Fabio Fognini (ITA) 2,785 (+2) 11. John Isner (USA) 2,715 (-1) 12. Juan Martin Del Potro (ARG) 2,695 (-3) 13. Daniil Medvedev (RUS) 2,625 (+1) 14. Borna Coric (CRO) 2,525 (+1) 15. Marin Cilic (CRO) 2,395 (-2) 16. Gael Monfils (FRA) 2,055 (+1) 17. Nikoloz Basilashvili (GEO) 1,970 (-1) 18. Milos Raonic (CAN) 1,960 19. Stan Wawrinka (SUI) 1,715 (+9) 20 Roberto Bautista Agut (ESP) 1,690 (+1)

French Open winner Rafael Nadal still lagging Novak Djokovic in rankings

Rafael Nadal claimed a record-stretching 12th French Open title by beating Austrian fourth seed Dominic Thiem 6-3, 5-7, 6-1, 6-1 in a repeat of last year's final on Sunday.

The Spaniard, who now has 18 majors to his name, also becomes the first player to win the same Grand Slam title 12 times, going past Margaret Court's 11 Australian Open titles.

He took command by winning a high-octane first set, but Thiem, who was on court for the fourth consecutive day after weather delays, stayed in the contest and fought back to go level.

Nadal's response was brutal as he won 16 of the first 17 points of the third set against a tiring Thiem, bagged it in less than half an hour.

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18 Grand Slams. 
12 Roland-Garros titles. 
1 <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RG19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RG19</a> <a href="https://t.co/gWXeqGCZGd">pic.twitter.com/gWXeqGCZGd</a>
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/status/1137756482748014592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The 33-year-old, whose Roland Garros haul started on his debut year in 2005, cruised through the fourth set and wrapped it up when Thiem sent a forehand long.

Rafael Nadal claimed a record-stretching 12th French Open title by beating Austrian fourth seed Dominic Thiem 6-3, 5-7, 6-1, 6-1 in a repeat of last year's final on Sunday.

Rafael Nadal claimed a record-stretching 12th French Open title by beating Austrian fourth seed Dominic Thiem 6-3, 5-7, 6-1, 6-1 in a repeat of last year's final on Sunday. The Spaniard, who now has 18 majors to his name, also becomes the first player to win the same Grand Slam title 12 times, going past Margaret Court's 11 Australian Open titles. He took command by winning a high-octane first set, but Thiem, who was on court for the fourth consecutive day after weather delays, stayed in the contest and fought back to go level. Nadal's response was brutal as he won 16 of the first 17 points of the third set against a tiring Thiem, bagged it in less than half an hour. 18 Grand Slams. 12 Roland-Garros titles. 1 @RafaelNadal.#RG19 pic.twitter.com/gWXeqGCZGd — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 9, 2019 × The 33-year-old, whose Roland Garros haul started on his debut year in 2005, cruised through the fourth set and wrapped it up when Thiem sent a forehand long.

Rafael Nadal beats Dominic Thiem to claim record-stretching French Open title

From cricketer to grand slam winner, Ashleigh Barty's journey is inspiring

Australian eighth seed Ashleigh Barty defeated 19-year-old Marketa Vondrousova to&nbsp;win the French Open women's singles final on Saturday.&nbsp;

Barty beat&nbsp;Vondrousova 6-1, 6-3.&nbsp;

It's Barty's maiden Grand Slam title and she also became the first Australian woman in 46 years to win the French Open singles.&nbsp;

After winning the match Barty sat on the floor and leaned&nbsp;her head on her racquet.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;eighth seed Barty joins 1969, 1970 and 1973 champion Margaret Court and 1971 winner Evonne Goolagong-Cawley on the list of Australian women who have lifted the trophy in the professional era.

Barty raced to a 4-0 lead as she breezed through the opening set, taking full advantage of 19-year-old Vondrousova's early jitters.

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Notre championne de Roland-Garros 2019... Ashleigh Barty ! 🙌🏆🇦🇺<a href="https://twitter.com/ashbar96?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashbar96</a> s'impose 6-1, 6-3 face à Marketa Vondrousova pour remporter son 1er titre en Grand Chelem 👏 
 
📝 <a href="https://t.co/YmpNHqTHSU">https://t.co/YmpNHqTHSU</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RG19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RG19</a> <a href="https://t.co/1N6rHCT82v">pic.twitter.com/1N6rHCT82v</a>
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Vondrousova, who was hoping to become the first teenager to lift the Suzanne Lenglen Cup since Iva Majoli in 1997, offered more of a challenge in the second set, but Barty was always in control.

Australian eighth seed Ashleigh Barty defeated 19-year-old Marketa Vondrousova to win the French Open women's singles final on Saturday. Barty beat Vondrousova 6-1, 6-3.

Australian eighth seed Ashleigh Barty defeated 19-year-old Marketa Vondrousova to win the French Open women's singles final on Saturday. Barty beat Vondrousova 6-1, 6-3. It's Barty's maiden Grand Slam title and she also became the first Australian woman in 46 years to win the French Open singles. After winning the match Barty sat on the floor and leaned her head on her racquet. The eighth seed Barty joins 1969, 1970 and 1973 champion Margaret Court and 1971 winner Evonne Goolagong-Cawley on the list of Australian women who have lifted the trophy in the professional era. Barty raced to a 4-0 lead as she breezed through the opening set, taking full advantage of 19-year-old Vondrousova's early jitters. Notre championne de Roland-Garros 2019... Ashleigh Barty ! 🙌🏆🇦🇺@ashbar96 s'impose 6-1, 6-3 face à Marketa Vondrousova pour remporter son 1er titre en Grand Chelem 👏 📝 https://t.co/YmpNHqTHSU #RG19 pic.twitter.com/1N6rHCT82v — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 8, 2019 × Vondrousova, who was hoping to become the first teenager to lift the Suzanne Lenglen Cup since Iva Majoli in 1997, offered more of a challenge in the second set, but Barty was always in control.

Ashleigh Barty defeats Marketa Vondrousova to win French Open title

Novak Djokovic reached his ninth Roland Garros semi-final Thursday, sweeping past Alexander Zverev to keep his bid to become just the second man to hold all four Slams at the same time twice firmly on track.

Top seed and world number one Djokovic won 7-5, 6-2, 6-2 and will face Austrian fourth seed Dominic Thiem on Friday in what will be his 35th Grand Slam semi-final.

Thiem reached the semi-finals for a fourth successive year with a 6-2, 6-4, 6-2 victory against Russian 10th seed Karen Khachanov.

"It was a big challenge for me today but I was hitting the ball more cleanly," said 32-year-old Djokovic.

"It's a great joy to be in the semi-finals again."

The problem for Djokovic now in his pursuit of a second title in Paris and 16th major is the weather.

Heavy rain is forecast to hit Paris again on Friday after Wednesday's washout.

"I just have to keep my concentration and stay in the moment. I hope to continue like this," said the Serb.

Friday's other semi-final will see Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer resume their great rivalry, meaning this is the first time the top four seeds have all reached the last four at a Grand Slam since the 2013 Australian Open.

The last time Djokovic made the semi-finals was 2016 when he went on to win the title.

He has a 6-2 career lead over Thiem and beat the Austrian in the Rome semi-finals in the run-up to Paris.

However, Thiem came out on top in the Roland Garros quarter-finals in straight sets in 2017.

Fifth seed Zverev, bidding to reach a maiden Slam semi-final and become the first German in the last-four in Paris since Michael Stich in 1996, made the stronger start.

The 22-year-old had break points in the third and fifth games of the opening set and finally broke through for a 5-4 lead.

But top seed Djokovic levelled immediately before claiming the set on a Zverev double fault.

Djokovic dominated the second set as breaks in the second and eighth games were enough to tighten his grip.

The world number one saved two more break points in the opening game of the third set and again made the German pay with a break for 4-2.

Zverev's 40th and last unforced error proved to be the final point of the one-sided quarter-final.

"I had chances in the first set but he broke back and was in control," said the German.

"When he's in control, he's tough to beat. He's number one for a reason.

"I expected more from this tournament but once the first set slipped away, it was difficult."

The world number five finished with eight double faults while converting just one of eight break points.

Thiem was utterly dominant on Court Suzanne Lenglen, hammering 29 winners, as his erratic opponent contrived to tally 37 unforced errors and only 17 winners.

"The key was to control the points. I'll be ready to maybe come back here tomorrow. This is one of my favourite courts in the world," said the 25-year-old, who is chasing a maiden Grand Slam title.

Khachanov had impressed in a fourth-round victory over Juan Martin del Potro, but was never in with a chance in the quarter-final, which was delayed from Wednesday due to rain, dropping serve twice in the opening set.

He managed to get to 4-4 in the second, only to see Thiem reel off eight of the next 10 games and seal a last-four spot without even facing a break point in the match.

Novak Djokovic reached his ninth Roland Garros semi-final Thursday, sweeping past Alexander Zverev to keep his bid to become just the second man to hold all four Slams at the same time twice firmly on track.

Novak Djokovic reached his ninth Roland Garros semi-final Thursday, sweeping past Alexander Zverev to keep his bid to become just the second man to hold all four Slams at the same time twice firmly on track. Top seed and world number one Djokovic won 7-5, 6-2, 6-2 and will face Austrian fourth seed Dominic Thiem on Friday in what will be his 35th Grand Slam semi-final. Thiem reached the semi-finals for a fourth successive year with a 6-2, 6-4, 6-2 victory against Russian 10th seed Karen Khachanov. "It was a big challenge for me today but I was hitting the ball more cleanly," said 32-year-old Djokovic. "It's a great joy to be in the semi-finals again." The problem for Djokovic now in his pursuit of a second title in Paris and 16th major is the weather. Heavy rain is forecast to hit Paris again on Friday after Wednesday's washout. "I just have to keep my concentration and stay in the moment. I hope to continue like this," said the Serb. Friday's other semi-final will see Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer resume their great rivalry, meaning this is the first time the top four seeds have all reached the last four at a Grand Slam since the 2013 Australian Open. The last time Djokovic made the semi-finals was 2016 when he went on to win the title. He has a 6-2 career lead over Thiem and beat the Austrian in the Rome semi-finals in the run-up to Paris. However, Thiem came out on top in the Roland Garros quarter-finals in straight sets in 2017. Fifth seed Zverev, bidding to reach a maiden Slam semi-final and become the first German in the last-four in Paris since Michael Stich in 1996, made the stronger start. The 22-year-old had break points in the third and fifth games of the opening set and finally broke through for a 5-4 lead. But top seed Djokovic levelled immediately before claiming the set on a Zverev double fault. Djokovic dominated the second set as breaks in the second and eighth games were enough to tighten his grip. The world number one saved two more break points in the opening game of the third set and again made the German pay with a break for 4-2. Zverev's 40th and last unforced error proved to be the final point of the one-sided quarter-final. "I had chances in the first set but he broke back and was in control," said the German. "When he's in control, he's tough to beat. He's number one for a reason. "I expected more from this tournament but once the first set slipped away, it was difficult." The world number five finished with eight double faults while converting just one of eight break points. Thiem was utterly dominant on Court Suzanne Lenglen, hammering 29 winners, as his erratic opponent contrived to tally 37 unforced errors and only 17 winners. "The key was to control the points. I'll be ready to maybe come back here tomorrow. This is one of my favourite courts in the world," said the 25-year-old, who is chasing a maiden Grand Slam title. Khachanov had impressed in a fourth-round victory over Juan Martin del Potro, but was never in with a chance in the quarter-final, which was delayed from Wednesday due to rain, dropping serve twice in the opening set. He managed to get to 4-4 in the second, only to see Thiem reel off eight of the next 10 games and seal a last-four spot without even facing a break point in the match.

Novak Djokovic to face Dominic Thiem in his ninth Roland Garros semi-final

Roger Federer set up a mouthwatering French Open semi-final clash with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-into-12th-roland-garros-semi-final-224354">Rafael Nadal</a> on Tuesday when he defeated Stan Wawrinka in four sets to become the oldest men's Grand Slam semi-finalist in 28 years.

The 37-year-old Swiss beat his compatriot 7-6 (7/4), 4-6, 7-6 (7/5), 6-4 to reach his 43rd major semi-final and eighth at Roland Garros.

He trails his head-to-head record with Nadal 23-15, but has won their last five meetings.

Defending champion Rafael Nadal, bidding for a 12th title at the French Open, blitzed a weary Kei Nishikori 6-1, 6-1, 6-3 in his quarter-final.

"It was hard, really, really hard. Stan played a really good match, I'm very happy to play him here at Roland Garros," said Federer.

The 20-time Grand Slam champion is the oldest man to make the semis at one of the big four tournaments since Jimmy Connors at the 1991 US Open aged 39.

Wawrinka saved 16 of 18 break points in a thrilling encounter, but Federer quickly finished off the match after a rain delay to progress.

Watch Federer's reaction after winning:

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Quelques mots sur la "petite" demi-finale à venir... 😉<a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RG19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RG19</a> <a href="https://t.co/Dd8UXYrgkZ">pic.twitter.com/Dd8UXYrgkZ</a>
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/status/1135960047085850624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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It is the third seed's first appearance at the French Open since 2015 after taking time away from clay to focus on Wimbledon, but he has been in fine form in Paris and has only lost one set so far -- as has Nadal.

Nadal, who turned 33 on Monday, is three behind Federer in the all-time list of Grand Slam singles titles heading into their 39th career clash.

It will be Federer's first Roland Garros semi-final since a defeat by Novak Djokovic in 2012.

Roger Federer set up a mouthwatering French Open semi-final clash with Rafael Nadal on Tuesday when he defeated Stan Wawrinka in four sets to become the oldest men's Grand Slam semi-finalist in 28 years.

Roger Federer set up a mouthwatering French Open semi-final clash with Rafael Nadal on Tuesday when he defeated Stan Wawrinka in four sets to become the oldest men's Grand Slam semi-finalist in 28 years. The 37-year-old Swiss beat his compatriot 7-6 (7/4), 4-6, 7-6 (7/5), 6-4 to reach his 43rd major semi-final and eighth at Roland Garros. He trails his head-to-head record with Nadal 23-15, but has won their last five meetings. Defending champion Rafael Nadal, bidding for a 12th title at the French Open, blitzed a weary Kei Nishikori 6-1, 6-1, 6-3 in his quarter-final. "It was hard, really, really hard. Stan played a really good match, I'm very happy to play him here at Roland Garros," said Federer. The 20-time Grand Slam champion is the oldest man to make the semis at one of the big four tournaments since Jimmy Connors at the 1991 US Open aged 39. Wawrinka saved 16 of 18 break points in a thrilling encounter, but Federer quickly finished off the match after a rain delay to progress. Watch Federer's reaction after winning: Quelques mots sur la "petite" demi-finale à venir... 😉@rogerfederer | #RG19 pic.twitter.com/Dd8UXYrgkZ — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 4, 2019 × It is the third seed's first appearance at the French Open since 2015 after taking time away from clay to focus on Wimbledon, but he has been in fine form in Paris and has only lost one set so far -- as has Nadal. Nadal, who turned 33 on Monday, is three behind Federer in the all-time list of Grand Slam singles titles heading into their 39th career clash. It will be Federer's first Roland Garros semi-final since a defeat by Novak Djokovic in 2012.

Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal to meet in French Open semi-finals

Defending champion Rafael Nadal blitzed a weary Kei Nishikori 6-1, 6-1, 6-3 on Tuesday to reach the Roland Garros semi-finals for the 12th time and a possible dream clash with Roger Federer.

Nadal, bidding to win a 12th French Open, took his record in Paris to 91 wins and just two defeats, a day after he celebrated his 33rd birthday.

In what will be his 31st appearance in a Slam semi-final, the world number two will face either 2009 champion Federer.

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Rafael. Nadal. 👑🙌 
 
5 jeux. C'est tout ce que <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> a concédé à Kei Nishikori aujourd'hui. L'Espagnol se qualifie 6-1, 6-1, 6-3 pour les demi-finales de Roland-Garros pour la 12e fois. Nouveau record.<a href="https://t.co/OlDbkOArRX">https://t.co/OlDbkOArRX</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RG19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RG19</a> <a href="https://t.co/rQv3X82Vlu">pic.twitter.com/rQv3X82Vlu</a>
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/status/1135954492728520704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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As Federer reached&nbsp;his first Roland-Garros semi-final since 2012 in a gritty 7-6(4), 4-6, 7-6(5), 6-4 victory over Stan Wawrinka.

Defending champion Rafael Nadal blitzed a weary Kei Nishikori 6-1, 6-1, 6-3 on Tuesday to reach the Roland Garros semi-finals for the 12th time and a possible dream clash with Roger Federer.

Defending champion Rafael Nadal blitzed a weary Kei Nishikori 6-1, 6-1, 6-3 on Tuesday to reach the Roland Garros semi-finals for the 12th time and a possible dream clash with Roger Federer. Nadal, bidding to win a 12th French Open, took his record in Paris to 91 wins and just two defeats, a day after he celebrated his 33rd birthday. In what will be his 31st appearance in a Slam semi-final, the world number two will face either 2009 champion Federer. Rafael. Nadal. 👑🙌 5 jeux. C'est tout ce que @RafaelNadal a concédé à Kei Nishikori aujourd'hui. L'Espagnol se qualifie 6-1, 6-1, 6-3 pour les demi-finales de Roland-Garros pour la 12e fois. Nouveau record.https://t.co/OlDbkOArRX | #RG19 pic.twitter.com/rQv3X82Vlu — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 4, 2019 × As Federer reached his first Roland-Garros semi-final since 2012 in a gritty 7-6(4), 4-6, 7-6(5), 6-4 victory over Stan Wawrinka.

Rafael Nadal into 12th Roland Garros semi-final

Johanna Konta became the first British woman in 36 years to reach the Roland Garros semi-finals when she swept past Sloane Stephens of the United States on Tuesday.

Konta, the 26th seed, downed last year's runner-up 6-1, 6-4 and will face either Czech teenager Marketa Vondrousova or Croatian 31st Petra Martic for a place in the final.

Jo Durie was the last British woman to make the French Open semi-finals in 1983.

The 28-year-old Konta had not won a match at Roland Garros in any of her previous four visits.

However, she now finds herself in her third semi-final at a major after runs to the last-four at the 2016 Australian Open and Wimbledon in 2017.

"To play on the new Chatrier court for the first time was wonderful especially against one of the world's best players," said Konta after her third win in 2019 over Stephens.

"I am super happy because the conditions were so windy and Sloane is the kind of player who can run away with a match.

"So I had to be prepared to keep her on the back foot and control the points."

Konta made sure of emulating Durie by breaking former US Open champion Stephens in the fourth and sixth games of the first set.

The Briton fired four aces and 12 winners past her 26-year-old opponent in the 35-minute opener.

The 26th seed tightened her grip with a break in the opening game of the second set and that proved more than enough.

Such was Konta's domination that she allowed Stephens just one point on her serve in the entire second set which ended with a whimper when the American sent a groundstroke wide of the mark.

Johanna Konta became the first British woman in 36 years to reach the Roland Garros semi-finals when she swept past Sloane Stephens of the United States on Tuesday.

Johanna Konta became the first British woman in 36 years to reach the Roland Garros semi-finals when she swept past Sloane Stephens of the United States on Tuesday. Konta, the 26th seed, downed last year's runner-up 6-1, 6-4 and will face either Czech teenager Marketa Vondrousova or Croatian 31st Petra Martic for a place in the final. Jo Durie was the last British woman to make the French Open semi-finals in 1983. The 28-year-old Konta had not won a match at Roland Garros in any of her previous four visits. However, she now finds herself in her third semi-final at a major after runs to the last-four at the 2016 Australian Open and Wimbledon in 2017. "To play on the new Chatrier court for the first time was wonderful especially against one of the world's best players," said Konta after her third win in 2019 over Stephens. "I am super happy because the conditions were so windy and Sloane is the kind of player who can run away with a match. "So I had to be prepared to keep her on the back foot and control the points." Konta made sure of emulating Durie by breaking former US Open champion Stephens in the fourth and sixth games of the first set. The Briton fired four aces and 12 winners past her 26-year-old opponent in the 35-minute opener. The 26th seed tightened her grip with a break in the opening game of the second set and that proved more than enough. Such was Konta's domination that she allowed Stephens just one point on her serve in the entire second set which ended with a whimper when the American sent a groundstroke wide of the mark.

Johanna Konta first British woman in Roland Garros semis in 36 years

Sixth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas could not hide the raw emotion of defeat after losing a five-set thriller against Stan Wawrinka in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=french+open">French Open</a> fourth round on Sunday.

Tsitsipas, 20, had looked the man most likely to threaten the establishment this week with dazzling tennis, but Wawrinka proved they will not make way easily as he gritted out a 7-6(6), 5-7, 6-4, 3-6, 8-6 to set up a clash with Roger Federer.

After a five-hour battle between two of the best one-handed backhands in the business it seemed Tsitsipas, 14 years younger than Wawrinka, was on the brink of victory when he had three break points at 5-5 in the deciding set.

But the Greek could not convert any of them and wavered at 6-7, allowing Wawrinka two match points, the second of which he took with a backhand slice that Tsitsipas thought was going wide but which clipped a line, the umpire confirming his fate.

Wawrinka, the 2015 champion, warmly embraced his opponent but the hurt was plain for all to see as Tsitsipas headed off.

"I feel exhausted. I don't know. Never experienced something like this in my life," Tsitsipas told reporters.

"I feel very disappointed at the end. Long time since I cried after a match, so emotionally wasn't easy to handle. I will try to learn from it as much as I can.

"It's the worst feeling ever. Especially when you lose.

You don't want to be in my place."

Tsitsipas converted only five of 27 break points -- a statistic that ultimately cost him his chance.

"I was so close, so close. So many break points. So many.

Didn't play. I was expecting someone else to play it for me. I didn't play," he said.

Asked what he would learn, he said: "I have no idea. My mind is so empty right now. I cannot even think."

Tsitsipas had arrived in Paris as one of the form players on clay after reaching the final in Madrid and semis in Rome.

Sixth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas could not hide the raw emotion of defeat after losing a five-set thriller against Stan Wawrinka in the French Open fourth round on Sunday.

Sixth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas could not hide the raw emotion of defeat after losing a five-set thriller against Stan Wawrinka in the French Open fourth round on Sunday. Tsitsipas, 20, had looked the man most likely to threaten the establishment this week with dazzling tennis, but Wawrinka proved they will not make way easily as he gritted out a 7-6(6), 5-7, 6-4, 3-6, 8-6 to set up a clash with Roger Federer. After a five-hour battle between two of the best one-handed backhands in the business it seemed Tsitsipas, 14 years younger than Wawrinka, was on the brink of victory when he had three break points at 5-5 in the deciding set. But the Greek could not convert any of them and wavered at 6-7, allowing Wawrinka two match points, the second of which he took with a backhand slice that Tsitsipas thought was going wide but which clipped a line, the umpire confirming his fate. Wawrinka, the 2015 champion, warmly embraced his opponent but the hurt was plain for all to see as Tsitsipas headed off. "I feel exhausted. I don't know. Never experienced something like this in my life," Tsitsipas told reporters. "I feel very disappointed at the end. Long time since I cried after a match, so emotionally wasn't easy to handle. I will try to learn from it as much as I can. "It's the worst feeling ever. Especially when you lose. You don't want to be in my place." Tsitsipas converted only five of 27 break points -- a statistic that ultimately cost him his chance. "I was so close, so close. So many break points. So many. Didn't play. I was expecting someone else to play it for me. I didn't play," he said. Asked what he would learn, he said: "I have no idea. My mind is so empty right now. I cannot even think." Tsitsipas had arrived in Paris as one of the form players on clay after reaching the final in Madrid and semis in Rome.

French Open: Stefanos Tsitsipas says worst feeling ever after loss to Stan Wawrinka

Top seed Novak Djokovic's untroubled progress continued at the French Open as he chalked up a fourth successive straight-sets victory on Monday, this time outclassing Jan-Lennard Struff to reach the quarter-finals.

His 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 defeat of the 45th-ranked German means Djokovic is the first man to reach 10 successive quarter-finals at Roland Garros -- a feat even Rafael Nadal has not achieved.

Struff was bidding to reach his first Grand Slam quarter-final and provided some early resistance in drizzly conditions on Court Philippe Chatrier.

Djokovic had an early chance to break in the second game but Struff won a fierce baseline rally to avert the danger.

It felt like only a matter of time before Djokovic moved up a gear though, and in the seventh game he brought up two more break points with a stunning backhand passing shot.

He duly converted with a smash after softening up Struff with a series of punishing groundstrokes into the corners.

After holding serve to take the opening set, Djokovic rolled through the next two in cruise control, making only 11 unforced errors in the one-hour 33-minute workout.

He will face either Italian Fabio Fognini or German's Alexander Zverev in the quarter-final.

Djokovic is bidding to become only the second man to hold all four Grand Slams simultaneously twice, having first achieved the feat three years ago when he won his only French Open title.

Top seed Novak Djokovic's untroubled progress continued at the French Open as he chalked up a fourth successive straight-sets victory on Monday, this time outclassing Jan-Lennard Struff to reach the quarter-finals.

Top seed Novak Djokovic's untroubled progress continued at the French Open as he chalked up a fourth successive straight-sets victory on Monday, this time outclassing Jan-Lennard Struff to reach the quarter-finals. His 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 defeat of the 45th-ranked German means Djokovic is the first man to reach 10 successive quarter-finals at Roland Garros -- a feat even Rafael Nadal has not achieved. Struff was bidding to reach his first Grand Slam quarter-final and provided some early resistance in drizzly conditions on Court Philippe Chatrier. Djokovic had an early chance to break in the second game but Struff won a fierce baseline rally to avert the danger. It felt like only a matter of time before Djokovic moved up a gear though, and in the seventh game he brought up two more break points with a stunning backhand passing shot. He duly converted with a smash after softening up Struff with a series of punishing groundstrokes into the corners. After holding serve to take the opening set, Djokovic rolled through the next two in cruise control, making only 11 unforced errors in the one-hour 33-minute workout. He will face either Italian Fabio Fognini or German's Alexander Zverev in the quarter-final. Djokovic is bidding to become only the second man to hold all four Grand Slams simultaneously twice, having first achieved the feat three years ago when he won his only French Open title.

Novak Djokovic reaches 10th successive French Open quarter-final

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Rafael+Nadal">Rafael Nadal</a> ended the dream run of French Open debutant Juan Ignacio Londero with a typically dominant 6-2, 6-3, 6-3 victory on Sunday to power into the quarter-finals.

In hot and breezy conditions, the Spaniard looked once again produced claycourt tennis of the highest quality to make the last eight of a Grand Slam event for the 38th time.

The tone was set when he broke the 25-year-old Londero's serve in the second game of the Court Philippe Chatrier duel and while his 78th-ranked opponent never threw in the towel he could only try to delay the inevitable.

Londero had a break point early in the third set but Nadal stamped out that danger and broke in the very next game to close in on victory.

With his eyes fixed firmly on claiming a 12th French Open title next Sunday he seemed eager to finish the job swiftly, but after moving 4-1 ahead in the third set he dropped serve for the first time in the match.

Nadal's pace appeared to drop ever so slightly and Londero even sensed another break two games later when heavy hitting got him to 0-30 on the second seed's serve, but Nadal reeled off four consecutive points, holding with an ace.

He finished the match with a signature forehand to set up a clash with Kei Nishikori or Benoit Paire.

Rafael Nadal ended the dream run of French Open debutant Juan Ignacio Londero with a typically dominant 6-2, 6-3, 6-3 victory on Sunday to power into the quarter-finals.

Rafael Nadal ended the dream run of French Open debutant Juan Ignacio Londero with a typically dominant 6-2, 6-3, 6-3 victory on Sunday to power into the quarter-finals. In hot and breezy conditions, the Spaniard looked once again produced claycourt tennis of the highest quality to make the last eight of a Grand Slam event for the 38th time. The tone was set when he broke the 25-year-old Londero's serve in the second game of the Court Philippe Chatrier duel and while his 78th-ranked opponent never threw in the towel he could only try to delay the inevitable. Londero had a break point early in the third set but Nadal stamped out that danger and broke in the very next game to close in on victory. With his eyes fixed firmly on claiming a 12th French Open title next Sunday he seemed eager to finish the job swiftly, but after moving 4-1 ahead in the third set he dropped serve for the first time in the match. Nadal's pace appeared to drop ever so slightly and Londero even sensed another break two games later when heavy hitting got him to 0-30 on the second seed's serve, but Nadal reeled off four consecutive points, holding with an ace. He finished the match with a signature forehand to set up a clash with Kei Nishikori or Benoit Paire.

Rafael Nadal ends Juan Ignacio Londero's run to reach quarter-finals

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Roger+Federer">Roger Federer</a> reached the French Open quarter-finals for the 12th time on Sunday, becoming the oldest man in 28 years to make the last eight of a Slam.

The 37-year-old eased past Argentina's Leonardo Mayer 6-2, 6-3, 6-3 and will face either close friend and Swiss compatriot Stan Wawrinka or Greek sixth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas for a semi-final spot.

"It's fabulous that I can spend this time in&nbsp;Paris," said Federer who last played the tournament in 2015 when he made the quarter-finals -- where he lost to Wawrinka.

The Greek star, meanwhile, defeated Federer in the last 16 of the Australian Open in January.

"I was prepared for the worst scenario, losing in the first round in three sets. But I am super happy with my performance.

"I will need to play like this again against either Stan or Tsitsipas."

Federer will be playing in his 54th quarter-final at a Slam, cementing his place on top of the all-time men's list.

Despite leading Wawrinka 23-3 in career head-to-head meetings, Federer said he still remembers his quarter-final loss to his friend in Paris four years ago.

"I have a bad memory of it. Stan beat me in three sets with his terrible shorts!

"But he played really great that year and won the title."

Federer, the 2009 champion in Paris, is the oldest man to make the quarter-finals of a Slam since Jimmy Connors at the 1991 US Open.

Federer didn't face a break point in the fourth round match against the outclassed world number 68 played in a sweltering 32 degrees on Court Philippe Chatrier.

Roger Federer reached the French Open quarter-finals for the 12th time on Sunday, becoming the oldest man in 28 years to make the last eight of a Slam. The 37-year-old eased past Argentina's Leonardo Mayer 6-2, 6-3, 6-3 and will face either close friend and Swiss compatriot Stan Wawrinka or Greek sixth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas for a semi-final spot.

Roger Federer reached the French Open quarter-finals for the 12th time on Sunday, becoming the oldest man in 28 years to make the last eight of a Slam. The 37-year-old eased past Argentina's Leonardo Mayer 6-2, 6-3, 6-3 and will face either close friend and Swiss compatriot Stan Wawrinka or Greek sixth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas for a semi-final spot. "It's fabulous that I can spend this time in Paris," said Federer who last played the tournament in 2015 when he made the quarter-finals -- where he lost to Wawrinka. The Greek star, meanwhile, defeated Federer in the last 16 of the Australian Open in January. "I was prepared for the worst scenario, losing in the first round in three sets. But I am super happy with my performance. "I will need to play like this again against either Stan or Tsitsipas." Federer will be playing in his 54th quarter-final at a Slam, cementing his place on top of the all-time men's list. Despite leading Wawrinka 23-3 in career head-to-head meetings, Federer said he still remembers his quarter-final loss to his friend in Paris four years ago. "I have a bad memory of it. Stan beat me in three sets with his terrible shorts! "But he played really great that year and won the title." Federer, the 2009 champion in Paris, is the oldest man to make the quarter-finals of a Slam since Jimmy Connors at the 1991 US Open. Federer didn't face a break point in the fourth round match against the outclassed world number 68 played in a sweltering 32 degrees on Court Philippe Chatrier.

Roger Federer eases into 12th French Open quarter-final

Serena Williams's quest for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam singles title was put on hold on Saturday after the former world number one was knocked out of the French Open in the third round following a 6-2 7-5 defeat by fellow American Sofia Kenin.

Chasing Margaret Smith Court's all-time record, which was built over the amateur and professional eras, Williams failed to recover from a woeful opening set on Court Philippe Chatrier.

In the players' first meeting, world number 35 Kenin pulled Williams around the court and made the most of her opponent's unforced errors to set up a last-16 encounter with Australian eighth seed Ashleigh Barty.

Williams won the last of her 23 major singles titles at the 2017 Australian Open.

Serena Williams's quest for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam singles title was put on hold on Saturday after the former world number one was knocked out of the French Open in the third round following a 6-2 7-5 defeat by fellow American Sofia Kenin.

Serena Williams's quest for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam singles title was put on hold on Saturday after the former world number one was knocked out of the French Open in the third round following a 6-2 7-5 defeat by fellow American Sofia Kenin. Chasing Margaret Smith Court's all-time record, which was built over the amateur and professional eras, Williams failed to recover from a woeful opening set on Court Philippe Chatrier. In the players' first meeting, world number 35 Kenin pulled Williams around the court and made the most of her opponent's unforced errors to set up a last-16 encounter with Australian eighth seed Ashleigh Barty. Williams won the last of her 23 major singles titles at the 2017 Australian Open.

Serena Williams's pursuit of 24th major title on hold after French Open exit

Roger Federer celebrated his 400th Grand Slam match with an easy victory on Friday over Norway's Casper Ruud, winning 6-3, 6-1, 7-6(10-8) to become the oldest male player to reach the fourth round at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/second-seed-karolina-pliskova-knocked-out-of-french-open-223175">French Open</a> since 1972.

The 37-year-old Swiss showed little mercy to his 20-year-old opponent, whose father Christian reached the third round when Federer first played on the 'terre battue' of Roland Garros as a wild-card entrant in 1999.

Federer lost that year in the first round.

The world no. 3 needed little more than an hour to pick up the first two sets, but a rare lapse in concentration allowed Ruud, ranked 63, to pick up an early break in the third set.

The Swiss reeled the youngster back in, forcing the game to a tie-break where he squandered three match points before going on to win.

"I liked how he figured things out after going on a tough run thereof nine games," Federer said in a post-match press conference.

"The third set could have gone either way. He had chances early, then later, and then again after. It was nice to see him hang in there. He's got a great attitude, very calm, very quiet, maybe very Norwegian," Federer said.

Federer was making his first appearance at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-novak-djokovic-cruises-into-third-round-after-convincing-win-over-henri-laaksonen-223046">Roland Garros</a> since he reached the quarter-finals in 2015.

He withdrew from the event in 2016 and missed the entire clay court season in 2017 and 2018 to focus on grass.

"I thought (today's game) was tough, even though I had a good run there for a while. That also is very important for me, to know... that I can run through a set and a half and just take care of business. Gives me confidence for the next match, that's for sure," Federer said.

As he signed autographs at the end, a female fan said,&nbsp;"Roger, I've never seen you sweat before, this is crazy."

Federer quipped back,&nbsp;"I know, I don't know what's going on, I must be getting old!"

Federer is vying for his second French Open title 10 years after his first in 2009, which would set a record for the longest gap between winning a second title at a Grand Slam in the Open era.

He will meet Argentina's Leonardo Mayer in the fourth round.

Roger Federer celebrated his 400th Grand Slam match with an easy victory on Friday over Norway's Casper Ruud, winning 6-3, 6-1, 7-6(10-8) to become the oldest male player to reach the fourth round at the French Open since 1972.

Roger Federer celebrated his 400th Grand Slam match with an easy victory on Friday over Norway's Casper Ruud, winning 6-3, 6-1, 7-6(10-8) to become the oldest male player to reach the fourth round at the French Open since 1972. The 37-year-old Swiss showed little mercy to his 20-year-old opponent, whose father Christian reached the third round when Federer first played on the 'terre battue' of Roland Garros as a wild-card entrant in 1999. Federer lost that year in the first round. The world no. 3 needed little more than an hour to pick up the first two sets, but a rare lapse in concentration allowed Ruud, ranked 63, to pick up an early break in the third set. The Swiss reeled the youngster back in, forcing the game to a tie-break where he squandered three match points before going on to win. "I liked how he figured things out after going on a tough run thereof nine games," Federer said in a post-match press conference. "The third set could have gone either way. He had chances early, then later, and then again after. It was nice to see him hang in there. He's got a great attitude, very calm, very quiet, maybe very Norwegian," Federer said. Federer was making his first appearance at Roland Garros since he reached the quarter-finals in 2015. He withdrew from the event in 2016 and missed the entire clay court season in 2017 and 2018 to focus on grass. "I thought (today's game) was tough, even though I had a good run there for a while. That also is very important for me, to know... that I can run through a set and a half and just take care of business. Gives me confidence for the next match, that's for sure," Federer said. As he signed autographs at the end, a female fan said, "Roger, I've never seen you sweat before, this is crazy." Federer quipped back, "I know, I don't know what's going on, I must be getting old!" Federer is vying for his second French Open title 10 years after his first in 2009, which would set a record for the longest gap between winning a second title at a Grand Slam in the Open era. He will meet Argentina's Leonardo Mayer in the fourth round.

French Open: Roger Federer wins his 400th Grand Slam match, blazes into fourth round

World number one <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Naomi+Osaka">Naomi Osaka</a>'s hopes of winning a third successive Grand Slam ended Saturday when she was knocked out of the French Open in the third round by unheralded Katerina Siniakova of the Czech Republic.

Japanese top seed Osaka, the reigning US and Australian Open champion, crashed to a 6-4, 6-2 defeat to the 42nd-ranked Czech.

Osaka was undone by a shocking 38 unforced errors as she finally ran out of luck in Paris having had to come back from a set down in her first two matches.

"It's amazing, I can't believe it, I am so happy now," said Siniakova, who was the women's doubles champion in Paris in 2018 alongside Barbora Krejcikova.

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First win over a World No.1. First time into the R16 at a Slam. <a href="https://twitter.com/K_Siniakova?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@K_Siniakova</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RG19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RG19</a> <a href="https://t.co/vgAnzJ2x5e">pic.twitter.com/vgAnzJ2x5e</a>
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"I played my best tennis and I hope it continues."

Osaka dropped the first set for the third successive match at the tournament, squandering seven break points in all.

Siniakova made her pay, breaking for 5-4 and taking the opener when Osaka sent back her 16th unforced error of the set.

The Czech, who is the world's number one doubles player, kept up the pressure on the misfiring top seed, breaking for a 3-2 lead in the second set.

Siniakova backed it up with another break for 5-2 off Osaka's third double fault of the match.

Victory was hers on Court Suzanne Lenglen when Osaka unleashed another misguided forehand.

The Czech goes on to face either Madison Keys of the United States or Russian qualifier Anna Blinkova for a place in the quarter-finals in what will be her first appearance in the last 16 of the majors.

Despite being seeded top for the first time at a Slam, the 21-year-old Osaka had never looked convincing in Paris.

She was two points away from defeat in the first round against Anna Karolina Schmiedlova and came back from a set and break down to see off Victoria Azarenka in round two.

Her defeat also means that only four of the top 10 seeds in the women's singles are left in the tournament.

World number one Naomi Osaka's hopes of winning a third successive Grand Slam ended Saturday when she was knocked out of the French Open in the third round by unheralded Katerina Siniakova of the Czech Republic.

World number one Naomi Osaka's hopes of winning a third successive Grand Slam ended Saturday when she was knocked out of the French Open in the third round by unheralded Katerina Siniakova of the Czech Republic. Japanese top seed Osaka, the reigning US and Australian Open champion, crashed to a 6-4, 6-2 defeat to the 42nd-ranked Czech. Osaka was undone by a shocking 38 unforced errors as she finally ran out of luck in Paris having had to come back from a set down in her first two matches. "It's amazing, I can't believe it, I am so happy now," said Siniakova, who was the women's doubles champion in Paris in 2018 alongside Barbora Krejcikova. First win over a World No.1. First time into the R16 at a Slam. @K_Siniakova | #RG19 pic.twitter.com/vgAnzJ2x5e — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 1, 2019 × "I played my best tennis and I hope it continues." Osaka dropped the first set for the third successive match at the tournament, squandering seven break points in all. Siniakova made her pay, breaking for 5-4 and taking the opener when Osaka sent back her 16th unforced error of the set. The Czech, who is the world's number one doubles player, kept up the pressure on the misfiring top seed, breaking for a 3-2 lead in the second set. Siniakova backed it up with another break for 5-2 off Osaka's third double fault of the match. Victory was hers on Court Suzanne Lenglen when Osaka unleashed another misguided forehand. The Czech goes on to face either Madison Keys of the United States or Russian qualifier Anna Blinkova for a place in the quarter-finals in what will be her first appearance in the last 16 of the majors. Despite being seeded top for the first time at a Slam, the 21-year-old Osaka had never looked convincing in Paris. She was two points away from defeat in the first round against Anna Karolina Schmiedlova and came back from a set and break down to see off Victoria Azarenka in round two. Her defeat also means that only four of the top 10 seeds in the women's singles are left in the tournament.

World number one Naomi Osaka knocked out of French Open

Second seed Karolina Pliskova was knocked out of the French Open on Friday after a 6-3, 6-3 defeat by Croatia's Petra Martic.

Czech Pliskova produced an error-strewn display against the 31st seed, who will face either Russian Veronika Kudermetova or Estonia's Kaia Kanepi for a place in the quarter-finals.

Her defeat means Naomi Osaka will retain the world number one spot after Roland Garros.

Martic has now won 14 matches on clay this season, more than any other player on the WTA Tour.

Former world number one Pliskova remains without a Grand Slam title in her career, despite arriving in Paris with high hopes after powering her way to Italian Open triumph in Rome.

The game which saw her broken to fall 5-3 behind in the second set encapsulated an erratic display -- as she served two double faults, missed perhaps the easiest volley seen on the newly-rebuilt Court Philippe Chatrier, and capped it off by drilling the simplest of forehands several feet past the baseline.

Pliskova finished with 28 unforced errors in total, against only 23 winners, while Martic sealed victory with an ace.

The 28-year-old Martic put in a solid performance and is rewarded with a fourth-round tie against an unseeded player as she bids to reach the quarter-finals of a Grand Slam tournament for the first time.

Second seed Karolina Pliskova was knocked out of the French Open on Friday after a 6-3, 6-3 defeat by Croatia's Petra Martic. Czech Pliskova produced an error-strewn display against the 31st seed, who will face either Russian Veronika Kudermetova or Estonia's Kaia Kanepi for a place in the quarter-finals.

Second seed Karolina Pliskova was knocked out of the French Open on Friday after a 6-3, 6-3 defeat by Croatia's Petra Martic. Czech Pliskova produced an error-strewn display against the 31st seed, who will face either Russian Veronika Kudermetova or Estonia's Kaia Kanepi for a place in the quarter-finals. Her defeat means Naomi Osaka will retain the world number one spot after Roland Garros. Martic has now won 14 matches on clay this season, more than any other player on the WTA Tour. Former world number one Pliskova remains without a Grand Slam title in her career, despite arriving in Paris with high hopes after powering her way to Italian Open triumph in Rome. The game which saw her broken to fall 5-3 behind in the second set encapsulated an erratic display -- as she served two double faults, missed perhaps the easiest volley seen on the newly-rebuilt Court Philippe Chatrier, and capped it off by drilling the simplest of forehands several feet past the baseline. Pliskova finished with 28 unforced errors in total, against only 23 winners, while Martic sealed victory with an ace. The 28-year-old Martic put in a solid performance and is rewarded with a fourth-round tie against an unseeded player as she bids to reach the quarter-finals of a Grand Slam tournament for the first time.

Second seed Karolina Pliskova knocked out of French Open

Rafael Nadal powered into the French Open third round on Wednesday with a 6-1, 6-2, 6-4 victory over German qualifier Yannick Maden to continue his bid for a 12th Roland Garros title.

The 17-time Grand Slam champion was in dominant form for the majority of the match and will play Belgian 27th seed David Goffin for a place in the second week.

Nadal's win-loss record at the French Open now reads an astounding 88-2.

"He (Maden) is a good player. He had already won four matches so was full of confidence," he said. "For me it was an important victory."

The 32-year-old Spaniard wasted little time in wrapping up the first two sets on Court Suzanne Lenglen.

World number 114 Maden may have briefly allowed himself to dream of an outrageous upset when he broke twice to level at 3-3 and then 4-4 in the third set, but Nadal put him back in his place with two quick games to seal victory.

Nadal appears to be hitting form at just the right time, after following three consecutive semi-final defeats on clay with the Italian Open title before arriving in Paris.

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👋 to you too, Rafa. 
 
The Spaniard takes on qualifier Yannick Maden next on Lenglen...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RG19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RG19</a> <a href="https://t.co/CtGAbwhqbM">pic.twitter.com/CtGAbwhqbM</a>
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He finished the match with 43 winners against just 23 unforced errors as Maden simply could not live with his illustrious opponent.

Rafael Nadal powered into the French Open third round on Wednesday with a 6-1, 6-2, 6-4 victory over German qualifier Yannick Maden to continue his bid for a 12th Roland Garros title.

Rafael Nadal powered into the French Open third round on Wednesday with a 6-1, 6-2, 6-4 victory over German qualifier Yannick Maden to continue his bid for a 12th Roland Garros title. The 17-time Grand Slam champion was in dominant form for the majority of the match and will play Belgian 27th seed David Goffin for a place in the second week. Nadal's win-loss record at the French Open now reads an astounding 88-2. "He (Maden) is a good player. He had already won four matches so was full of confidence," he said. "For me it was an important victory." The 32-year-old Spaniard wasted little time in wrapping up the first two sets on Court Suzanne Lenglen. World number 114 Maden may have briefly allowed himself to dream of an outrageous upset when he broke twice to level at 3-3 and then 4-4 in the third set, but Nadal put him back in his place with two quick games to seal victory. Nadal appears to be hitting form at just the right time, after following three consecutive semi-final defeats on clay with the Italian Open title before arriving in Paris. 👋 to you too, Rafa. The Spaniard takes on qualifier Yannick Maden next on Lenglen...#RG19 pic.twitter.com/CtGAbwhqbM — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) May 29, 2019 × He finished the match with 43 winners against just 23 unforced errors as Maden simply could not live with his illustrious opponent.

French Open: Rafael Nadal enters third round after defeating Yannick Maden

Former champion Garbine Muguruza cantered into the third round of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-top-seed-naomi-osaka-flirts-with-early-exit-victoria-azarenka-and-del-potro-also-struggle-222421">French Open</a> with a routine 6-4, 6-1 victory against Swede Johanna Larsson on Wednesday.

The Spaniard seeded 19th, was kept on her toes in the opening set before motoring on in the second on Court Suzanne Lenglen.

Muguruza, who lifted the Suzanne Lenglen Cup in 2016, relied on her booming forehand throughout and wrapped it up when Larsson netted a service return.

"I'm very happy, it's another win in a Grand Slam. It's a special tournament for me," the 25-year-old, who also won Wimbledon in 2017, told a courtside interviewer.

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/GarbiMuguruza?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GarbiMuguruza</a> ne perd pas de temps. 
 
L’ex No.1 mondiale est la première à se qualifier pour le 3e tour de Roland-Garros grâce à une victoire sur Johanna Larsson 6-4, 6-1. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RG19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RG19</a> <a href="https://t.co/18LuHsP6Uf">pic.twitter.com/18LuHsP6Uf</a>
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She will face Elina Svitolina after the ninth seed advanced without hitting a ball on Wednesday when her opponent, fellow Ukrainian Kateryna Kozlova, withdrew from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-alexander-zverev-defeats-john-millman-to-enter-second-round-222336">tournament </a>due to intercostal pain.

Former champion Garbine Muguruza cantered into the third round of the French Open with a routine 6-4, 6-1 victory against Swede Johanna Larsson on Wednesday. The Spaniard seeded 19th, was kept on her toes in the opening set before motoring on in the second on Court Suzanne Lenglen.

Former champion Garbine Muguruza cantered into the third round of the French Open with a routine 6-4, 6-1 victory against Swede Johanna Larsson on Wednesday. The Spaniard seeded 19th, was kept on her toes in the opening set before motoring on in the second on Court Suzanne Lenglen. Muguruza, who lifted the Suzanne Lenglen Cup in 2016, relied on her booming forehand throughout and wrapped it up when Larsson netted a service return. "I'm very happy, it's another win in a Grand Slam. It's a special tournament for me," the 25-year-old, who also won Wimbledon in 2017, told a courtside interviewer. .@GarbiMuguruza ne perd pas de temps. L’ex No.1 mondiale est la première à se qualifier pour le 3e tour de Roland-Garros grâce à une victoire sur Johanna Larsson 6-4, 6-1. #RG19 pic.twitter.com/18LuHsP6Uf — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) May 29, 2019 × She will face Elina Svitolina after the ninth seed advanced without hitting a ball on Wednesday when her opponent, fellow Ukrainian Kateryna Kozlova, withdrew from the tournament due to intercostal pain.

French Open: Garbine Muguruza canters into third round after defeating Johanna Larsson

Jelena Ostapenko suffered her second successive first-round loss at the French Open since winning the 2017 title as she was beaten by former world number one Victoria Azarenka on Tuesday.

Considering the calibre of her opponent, a 6-4, 7-6(4) loss was not as demoralising as last year's defeat by Ukraine's Kateryna Kozlova.

But it continued a steep decline for the 21-year-old who also fell in round one at the Australian Open and has managed back-to-back wins just once in 2019.

The match statistics made grim reading for Ostapenko with 60 unforced errors to Azarenka's 19.

While the Latvian continues to struggle, Azarenka is heading in the right direction having risen back into the top 50 for the first time since giving birth to son Leo in December 2016.

Yet it was the Belarussian who began the match in charitable fashion, opening with two double faults before watching two Ostapenko backhands flash by her.

She broke back in the next game but dropped serve for the third time in the set to trail 4-3.

Ostapenko double-faulted four times in the next game to hand back the advantage, then twice more at 5-6 to surrender a scrappy first set.

She continued to mix flashing winners with unforced errors in the second, leading 4-2 but allowing Azarenka back in.

Ostapenko served for the set at 6-5 and led 30-0 only to offer up more free points to her grateful opponent.

In the tiebreak Azarenka brought up match point with a thumping forehand winner and Ostpenko's 60th unforced error ended the contest.

Jelena Ostapenko suffered her second successive first-round loss at the French Open since winning the 2017 title as she was beaten by former world number one Victoria Azarenka on Tuesday.

Jelena Ostapenko suffered her second successive first-round loss at the French Open since winning the 2017 title as she was beaten by former world number one Victoria Azarenka on Tuesday. Considering the calibre of her opponent, a 6-4, 7-6(4) loss was not as demoralising as last year's defeat by Ukraine's Kateryna Kozlova. But it continued a steep decline for the 21-year-old who also fell in round one at the Australian Open and has managed back-to-back wins just once in 2019. The match statistics made grim reading for Ostapenko with 60 unforced errors to Azarenka's 19. While the Latvian continues to struggle, Azarenka is heading in the right direction having risen back into the top 50 for the first time since giving birth to son Leo in December 2016. Yet it was the Belarussian who began the match in charitable fashion, opening with two double faults before watching two Ostapenko backhands flash by her. She broke back in the next game but dropped serve for the third time in the set to trail 4-3. Ostapenko double-faulted four times in the next game to hand back the advantage, then twice more at 5-6 to surrender a scrappy first set. She continued to mix flashing winners with unforced errors in the second, leading 4-2 but allowing Azarenka back in. Ostapenko served for the set at 6-5 and led 30-0 only to offer up more free points to her grateful opponent. In the tiebreak Azarenka brought up match point with a thumping forehand winner and Ostpenko's 60th unforced error ended the contest.

Former French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko blows out in first round again

Alexander Zverev was made to work hard to reach the second round of the French Open with a 7-6 (7-4), 6-3, 2-6, 6-7 (5-7) 6-3 win over Australian John Millman on Tuesday.

The German fifth seed, looking for a major breakthrough on the Grand Slam stage, needed more than four hours to see off the world number 56 and set up a meeting with Swedish qualifier Mikael Ymer.

The 22-year-old Zverev, one of the leading figures of the sport's 'new generation', claimed his best result at a major when he reached the quarter-finals at Roland Garros last year.

For a moment, it seemed he could be sent packing on his first day on court.

Millman cancelled out Zverev's early break with the German winning the resulting tiebreak in the opener before sailing through the second set.

But Zverev never looked comfortable in changing conditions on Court Philippe Chatrier and he was overpowered in the third, Millman taking the tie into a fourth set with a powerful forehand winner.

Zverev stole his serve but Millman turned it around to force a tiebreak, which he won to take the match into a decider.

That did not please Zverev, who destroyed his racket in frustration.

But a timely break in the ninth game of the fifth set had him serve for the match. There were no nerves on display as Zverev ended the contest on his first match point.

Alexander Zverev was made to work hard to reach the second round of the French Open with a 7-6 (7-4), 6-3, 2-6, 6-7 (5-7) 6-3 win over Australian John Millman on Tuesday.

Alexander Zverev was made to work hard to reach the second round of the French Open with a 7-6 (7-4), 6-3, 2-6, 6-7 (5-7) 6-3 win over Australian John Millman on Tuesday. The German fifth seed, looking for a major breakthrough on the Grand Slam stage, needed more than four hours to see off the world number 56 and set up a meeting with Swedish qualifier Mikael Ymer. The 22-year-old Zverev, one of the leading figures of the sport's 'new generation', claimed his best result at a major when he reached the quarter-finals at Roland Garros last year. For a moment, it seemed he could be sent packing on his first day on court. Millman cancelled out Zverev's early break with the German winning the resulting tiebreak in the opener before sailing through the second set. But Zverev never looked comfortable in changing conditions on Court Philippe Chatrier and he was overpowered in the third, Millman taking the tie into a fourth set with a powerful forehand winner. Zverev stole his serve but Millman turned it around to force a tiebreak, which he won to take the match into a decider. That did not please Zverev, who destroyed his racket in frustration. But a timely break in the ninth game of the fifth set had him serve for the match. There were no nerves on display as Zverev ended the contest on his first match point.

French Open: Alexander Zverev defeats John Millman to enter second round

The world number one Novak Djokovic will start his historic bid to win four grand slam titles in a row for the second time at this season's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-rafa-nadal-threaten-djokovic-bid-for-historic-slam-221522">French Open</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Serbian tennis star can become only the second man in history to have twice held all four Grand Slam titles at the same time with victory at the French Open.&nbsp;

While ahead of the Grand Slam, Djokovic said that Rafael Nadal is his favourite for the tournament.&nbsp;

"He's the main favourite to win the title. I think it wouldn't be fair to pick anybody else but him as the main favourite, because he has won this tournament so many times," said the Serb, as he spoke at a press conference ahead of the Grand Slam in France.&nbsp;

"He has lost, what, two times in his career on Parisian clay? So, lots of respect for him, obviously, as always," he added.&nbsp;

Top seed Djokovic will start his French Open campaign against Poland's Hubert Hurkacz on Monday.&nbsp;

Djokovic has been enjoying a good run of form during the clay season, winning the title in Madrid before losing to Nadal in Rome.&nbsp;

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On being asked about his preparations, Djokovic said, "Nothing really in particular days before Roland Garros. I don't do anything that is completely different from anything that I do in the different periods of the year. I do set up a strategy with my team to peak at the Grand Slams, because at this stage of my career, those are the ones that matter the most for me."&nbsp;

"I really want to win on every tournament that I participate, but of course Grand Slams just have a special place," he added.&nbsp;

The world number one Novak Djokovic will start his historic bid to win four grand slam titles in a row for the second time at this season's French Open. The Serbian tennis star can become only the second man in history to have twice held all four Grand Slam titles at the same time with victory at the French Open.

The world number one Novak Djokovic will start his historic bid to win four grand slam titles in a row for the second time at this season's French Open. The Serbian tennis star can become only the second man in history to have twice held all four Grand Slam titles at the same time with victory at the French Open. While ahead of the Grand Slam, Djokovic said that Rafael Nadal is his favourite for the tournament. "He's the main favourite to win the title. I think it wouldn't be fair to pick anybody else but him as the main favourite, because he has won this tournament so many times," said the Serb, as he spoke at a press conference ahead of the Grand Slam in France. "He has lost, what, two times in his career on Parisian clay? So, lots of respect for him, obviously, as always," he added. Top seed Djokovic will start his French Open campaign against Poland's Hubert Hurkacz on Monday. Djokovic has been enjoying a good run of form during the clay season, winning the title in Madrid before losing to Nadal in Rome. Watch the preview of French Open 2019: × On being asked about his preparations, Djokovic said, "Nothing really in particular days before Roland Garros. I don't do anything that is completely different from anything that I do in the different periods of the year. I do set up a strategy with my team to peak at the Grand Slams, because at this stage of my career, those are the ones that matter the most for me." "I really want to win on every tournament that I participate, but of course Grand Slams just have a special place," he added.

'He's the main favourite,' says Novak Djokovic about Rafael Nadal ahead of French Open

Novak Djokovic can become only the second man in history to have twice held all four Grand Slam titles at the same time with victory at the French Open. However, a returning Roger Federer and rejuvenated Rafael Nadal will once again stand in his way.

Who can stop Rafael Nadal from winning 12th title?

Novak Djokovic can become only the second man in history to have twice held all four Grand Slam titles at the same time with victory at the French Open.

However, a returning Roger Federer and rejuvenated Rafael Nadal will once again stand in his way.

World number one Djokovic completed his first private stranglehold of all four Slams with victory at Roland Garros in 2016.

Having clinched the 2018 Wimbledon and US Open titles and then a seventh Australian Open crown in January this year, the Serb is tantalisingly close to another 'Djoko Slam'.

Federer and Nadal, with 20 and 17 career Grand Slam titles each respectively, may be ahead of 15-time major winner Djokovic in total hauls.

However, they have never managed to hold all four of the sport's greatest prizes at the same time.

It is such a rare feat that only Don Budge (1938) and Rod Laver (1962 and 1969) -- all calendar Grand Slams -- have pulled off the sweep in the sport's history.

Djokovic, who turned 32 on Wednesday, is playing down his potential date with destiny.

After losing to Nadal in the Italian Open final last weekend, the Serb was in no doubt that it was the Spaniard who would likely be celebrating a 12th Roland Garros title in a little over two weeks' time.

"Nadal, number one favourite, without a doubt -- then everyone else," he said.

However, he admits his Paris triumph of 2016 which gave him his first sweep, is fuelling his bid for more history.

"There is an extra motivation and incentive to win Roland Garros because of the opportunity to hold all four Slams, something I did three years ago, and that gives me obviously enough reason to believe I can do it again."

Twelve months ago, such confidence would have appeared reckless when he was shocked by Italian journeyman Marco Cecchinato in the quarter-finals, a defeat which sent him crashing out of the top 20 for the first time in over a decade.

This time around he starts his campaign against Poland's Hubert Hurkacz, the world number 43 with a potential quarter-final against Germany's Alexander Zverev who has still to get past the last eight at a Slam.

Federer is returning to Roland Garros for the first time since 2015 having turned his back on clay court tennis to focus on Wimbledon.&nbsp;

10th anniversary

This year marks the 10th anniversary of his one and only Paris triumph and should the 37-year-old defy the odds and clinch the 2019 title he would become the oldest Grand Slam champion of all time.

However, Federer admits his hopes of seeing off Nadal and Djokovic are slim.

"I feel like I'm playing good tennis, but is it enough against the absolute top guys when it really comes to the crunch? I'm not sure if it's in my racquet," he said Friday.

The Swiss star faces Italy's Lorenzo Sonego, ranked at 73 in the first round on Sunday and could meet Nadal in the semi-finals.

Nadal, whose record at Roland Garros stands at a staggering 11 titles and a win-loss record of 86-2, claimed a ninth Italian Open title and a record 34th Masters last week.

"I don't care if I'm the favourite," said Nadal who starts against German qualifier Yannick Hanfmann, the world 184 who has never won a Grand Slam match.&nbsp;

"I care about feeling well and playing well."

Nadal's three-set win over Djokovic in Rome was timely as it was his first title of 2019 and had followed three successive semi-final losses at Monte Carlo, Barcelona and Madrid.

The last two of those were against Dominic Thiem and Stefanos Tsitsipas, both of whom play with a one-handed backhand, just like Federer.

Thiem, the 2018 runner-up to Nadal at Roland Garros, has defeated the Spaniard four times on clay.

"There is a new wave coming through with the one-handed backhand that can counter some of Rafa's spins and lefty play," said Federer.

Novak Djokovic can become only the second man in history to have twice held all four Grand Slam titles at the same time with victory at the French Open. However, a returning Roger Federer and rejuvenated Rafael Nadal will once again stand in his way. World number one Djokovic completed his first private stranglehold of all four Slams with victory at Roland Garros in 2016. Having clinched the 2018 Wimbledon and US Open titles and then a seventh Australian Open crown in January this year, the Serb is tantalisingly close to another 'Djoko Slam'. Federer and Nadal, with 20 and 17 career Grand Slam titles each respectively, may be ahead of 15-time major winner Djokovic in total hauls. However, they have never managed to hold all four of the sport's greatest prizes at the same time. It is such a rare feat that only Don Budge (1938) and Rod Laver (1962 and 1969) -- all calendar Grand Slams -- have pulled off the sweep in the sport's history. Djokovic, who turned 32 on Wednesday, is playing down his potential date with destiny. After losing to Nadal in the Italian Open final last weekend, the Serb was in no doubt that it was the Spaniard who would likely be celebrating a 12th Roland Garros title in a little over two weeks' time. "Nadal, number one favourite, without a doubt -- then everyone else," he said. However, he admits his Paris triumph of 2016 which gave him his first sweep, is fuelling his bid for more history. "There is an extra motivation and incentive to win Roland Garros because of the opportunity to hold all four Slams, something I did three years ago, and that gives me obviously enough reason to believe I can do it again." Twelve months ago, such confidence would have appeared reckless when he was shocked by Italian journeyman Marco Cecchinato in the quarter-finals, a defeat which sent him crashing out of the top 20 for the first time in over a decade. This time around he starts his campaign against Poland's Hubert Hurkacz, the world number 43 with a potential quarter-final against Germany's Alexander Zverev who has still to get past the last eight at a Slam. Federer is returning to Roland Garros for the first time since 2015 having turned his back on clay court tennis to focus on Wimbledon. 10th anniversary This year marks the 10th anniversary of his one and only Paris triumph and should the 37-year-old defy the odds and clinch the 2019 title he would become the oldest Grand Slam champion of all time. However, Federer admits his hopes of seeing off Nadal and Djokovic are slim. "I feel like I'm playing good tennis, but is it enough against the absolute top guys when it really comes to the crunch? I'm not sure if it's in my racquet," he said Friday. The Swiss star faces Italy's Lorenzo Sonego, ranked at 73 in the first round on Sunday and could meet Nadal in the semi-finals. Nadal, whose record at Roland Garros stands at a staggering 11 titles and a win-loss record of 86-2, claimed a ninth Italian Open title and a record 34th Masters last week. "I don't care if I'm the favourite," said Nadal who starts against German qualifier Yannick Hanfmann, the world 184 who has never won a Grand Slam match. "I care about feeling well and playing well." Nadal's three-set win over Djokovic in Rome was timely as it was his first title of 2019 and had followed three successive semi-final losses at Monte Carlo, Barcelona and Madrid. The last two of those were against Dominic Thiem and Stefanos Tsitsipas, both of whom play with a one-handed backhand, just like Federer. Thiem, the 2018 runner-up to Nadal at Roland Garros, has defeated the Spaniard four times on clay. "There is a new wave coming through with the one-handed backhand that can counter some of Rafa's spins and lefty play," said Federer.

Roger Federer, Rafa Nadal threaten Djokovic bid for historic Slam

Serena Williams heads into this year's French Open as an outsider for a Grand Slam title for possibly the first time in 20 years, with questions surrounding her fitness after a poor start to the season, while Naomi Osaka looks to solidify her position at the top of the women's game with a third straight major crown.

The 37-year-old Williams is still waiting for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam triumph, with her last victory coming at the 2017 Australian Open shortly before taking a break from the sport due to pregnancy.

She impressed initially after returning, but last year twice fell just short of drawing level with Margaret Court's mark, losing in the Wimbledon final to Angelique Kerber before her infamous meltdown en route to another final defeat by Osaka at Flushing Meadows.

Williams' 2019 campaign has not gone to plan so far, with a series of injuries seeing her manage just four matches since her Australian Open quarter-final exit to Karolina Pliskova.

But she is confident her work off the court can help her find her best game in the biggest tournaments.

"I actually haven't been able to train or practise a lot. I was out much longer than I expected," admitted the three-time French Open champion last week in Rome, before pulling out of the tournament ahead of a second-round tie with sister Venus.

"But I did everything I could to stay fit. I knew that I love the clay season and I wanted to be a part of it.

"It's not about today or tomorrow. For me obviously it's about playing well at all the big moments... Obviously the Slams, etc, just getting ready for those events."

Williams will face Russian world number 82 Vitalia Diatchenko in the first round, with the draw also throwing up a mouthwatering potential quarter-final against Osaka.

Osaka full of confidence

World number one Osaka has not been overly struggling since surprisingly splitting with coach Sascha Bajin in the wake of her Australian Open title.

But the Japanese star has not won a title since, and like Williams, withdrew from the Italian Open through injury before her quarter-final against Kiki Bertens.

It has still been the 21-year-old's best-ever clay-court campaign, having also reached the last eight in Madrid and the semi-finals in Stuttgart, and she feels her big-hitting game is now ready to dominate on all surfaces.

"Roland Garros, that's what I'm dreaming about right now," Osaka, who has never reached the second week in Paris, said.

"If you're talking about longer goals, of course I haven't won Wimbledon yet and it would be really cool to win everything in one year."

She also does not feel that her lack of a title since Melbourne will have a large bearing on her Roland Garros prospects ahead of her opening match against Slovakia's Anna Karolina Schmiedlova.

"I can't necessarily say it's been ups and downs because if I think about it, it's definitely been going up," she said.

Halep the favourite

Reigning champion Simona Halep will enter the tournament somewhat under the radar with much of the focus on Williams and Osaka, but the Romanian remains the world's most consistent player on clay.

The three-time French Open finalist is the bookmakers' favourite for the title, despite having lost both her finals so far this year and being knocked out in her first match in Rome by Czech youngster Marketa Vondrousova.

But she is the third seed in Paris and a name everyone will want to avoid later in the tournament, although she opens her title defence against Australian Ajla Tomljanovic, who reached the last 16 in 2014.

"(It's) much better and much easier, because I have the title already," said Halep, who won her maiden major trophy 12 months ago in her fourth final.

The women's game remains far more open than the men's, with a host of other players holding serious hopes of coming out on top, like Italian Open champion and second seed Pliskova and the in-form Petra Kvitova.

Anything can happen in the French capital, as shown by unheralded Latvian Jelena Ostapenko's shock victory only two years ago.

Serena Williams heads into this year's French Open as an outsider for a Grand Slam title for possibly the first time in 20 years, with questions surrounding her fitness after a poor start to the season, while Naomi Osaka looks to solidify her position at the top of the women's game with a third straight major crown.

Serena Williams heads into this year's French Open as an outsider for a Grand Slam title for possibly the first time in 20 years, with questions surrounding her fitness after a poor start to the season, while Naomi Osaka looks to solidify her position at the top of the women's game with a third straight major crown. The 37-year-old Williams is still waiting for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam triumph, with her last victory coming at the 2017 Australian Open shortly before taking a break from the sport due to pregnancy. She impressed initially after returning, but last year twice fell just short of drawing level with Margaret Court's mark, losing in the Wimbledon final to Angelique Kerber before her infamous meltdown en route to another final defeat by Osaka at Flushing Meadows. Williams' 2019 campaign has not gone to plan so far, with a series of injuries seeing her manage just four matches since her Australian Open quarter-final exit to Karolina Pliskova. But she is confident her work off the court can help her find her best game in the biggest tournaments. "I actually haven't been able to train or practise a lot. I was out much longer than I expected," admitted the three-time French Open champion last week in Rome, before pulling out of the tournament ahead of a second-round tie with sister Venus. "But I did everything I could to stay fit. I knew that I love the clay season and I wanted to be a part of it. "It's not about today or tomorrow. For me obviously it's about playing well at all the big moments... Obviously the Slams, etc, just getting ready for those events." Williams will face Russian world number 82 Vitalia Diatchenko in the first round, with the draw also throwing up a mouthwatering potential quarter-final against Osaka. Osaka full of confidence World number one Osaka has not been overly struggling since surprisingly splitting with coach Sascha Bajin in the wake of her Australian Open title. But the Japanese star has not won a title since, and like Williams, withdrew from the Italian Open through injury before her quarter-final against Kiki Bertens. It has still been the 21-year-old's best-ever clay-court campaign, having also reached the last eight in Madrid and the semi-finals in Stuttgart, and she feels her big-hitting game is now ready to dominate on all surfaces. "Roland Garros, that's what I'm dreaming about right now," Osaka, who has never reached the second week in Paris, said. "If you're talking about longer goals, of course I haven't won Wimbledon yet and it would be really cool to win everything in one year." She also does not feel that her lack of a title since Melbourne will have a large bearing on her Roland Garros prospects ahead of her opening match against Slovakia's Anna Karolina Schmiedlova. "I can't necessarily say it's been ups and downs because if I think about it, it's definitely been going up," she said. Halep the favourite Reigning champion Simona Halep will enter the tournament somewhat under the radar with much of the focus on Williams and Osaka, but the Romanian remains the world's most consistent player on clay. The three-time French Open finalist is the bookmakers' favourite for the title, despite having lost both her finals so far this year and being knocked out in her first match in Rome by Czech youngster Marketa Vondrousova. But she is the third seed in Paris and a name everyone will want to avoid later in the tournament, although she opens her title defence against Australian Ajla Tomljanovic, who reached the last 16 in 2014. "(It's) much better and much easier, because I have the title already," said Halep, who won her maiden major trophy 12 months ago in her fourth final. The women's game remains far more open than the men's, with a host of other players holding serious hopes of coming out on top, like Italian Open champion and second seed Pliskova and the in-form Petra Kvitova. Anything can happen in the French capital, as shown by unheralded Latvian Jelena Ostapenko's shock victory only two years ago.

Preview: Uncertainty over Serena fitness, Osaka form at Roland Garros

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