Defending champion Iga Swiatek was sent crashing out of the US Open on Sunday, losing in three sets to Latvia's 20th seed Jelena Ostapenko. Ostapenko fought back after losing the opening set to record a 3-6, 6-3, 6-1 victory in 1hr 48min and will now face American sixth seed Coco Gauff in the quarter-finals on Tuesday.

The defeat means Polish star Swiatek will end her 75-week reign as women's world number one when the rankings are updated after the US Open, with rival Aryna Sabalenka set to take over top spot.

Ostapenko's victory also extends her unbeaten record against Swiatek after wins in all three of her previous meetings with her.

"I always expect a tough battle against Iga, she's such a great player and won many Slams and is so consistent," Ostapenko said after her win on the Arthur Ashe Stadium court. "I knew I had to be aggressive and play my game because that's what she doesn't like.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-coco-gauff-ends-wozniackis-dream-run-novak-djokovic-enter-last-eight-in-us-open-632073">Tennis: Coco Gauff ends Wozniacki's dream run, Novak Djokovic enters last eight in US Open</a>

"I was just thinking that I have to play until the very last point, until we shake hands. I felt like I was playing better and didn't give her many chances."

Swiatek had cruised into the fourth round after not dropping a set in her first three matches, looking in prime form to defend the title she won last year.

On Sunday she finally looked ready to score a first victory over Ostapenko, playing confidently to take the first set.

But Ostapenko snatched an early break in the second set and then held for a 3-0 lead and Swiatek was always struggling thereafter.

She managed to break Ostapenko and served to level at 4-4, but instead was broken again to give the Latvian a 5-3 lead.

Ostapenko then survived a break point to close out the set at 6-3.

In the third, Swiatek had no answer to Ostapenko as she broke the champion twice in the first three games to take 3-0 lead.

She then broke Swiatek in the fifth game to go 5-0 ahead.

Although Ostapenko was broken as she served for the match, Swiatek again struggled on serve and was broken again to go tumbling out.

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Defending champion Iga Swiatek was sent crashing out of the US Open on Sunday, losing in three sets to Latvia's 20th seed Jelena Ostapenko. Ostapenko fought back after losing the opening set to record a 3-6, 6-3, 6-1 victory in 1hr 48min and will now face American sixth seed Coco Gauff in the quarter-finals on Tuesday.

Defending champion Iga Swiatek was sent crashing out of the US Open on Sunday, losing in three sets to Latvia's 20th seed Jelena Ostapenko. Ostapenko fought back after losing the opening set to record a 3-6, 6-3, 6-1 victory in 1hr 48min and will now face American sixth seed Coco Gauff in the quarter-finals on Tuesday. The defeat means Polish star Swiatek will end her 75-week reign as women's world number one when the rankings are updated after the US Open, with rival Aryna Sabalenka set to take over top spot. Ostapenko's victory also extends her unbeaten record against Swiatek after wins in all three of her previous meetings with her. "I always expect a tough battle against Iga, she's such a great player and won many Slams and is so consistent," Ostapenko said after her win on the Arthur Ashe Stadium court. "I knew I had to be aggressive and play my game because that's what she doesn't like. ALSO READ: Tennis: Coco Gauff ends Wozniacki's dream run, Novak Djokovic enters last eight in US Open "I was just thinking that I have to play until the very last point, until we shake hands. I felt like I was playing better and didn't give her many chances." Swiatek had cruised into the fourth round after not dropping a set in her first three matches, looking in prime form to defend the title she won last year. On Sunday she finally looked ready to score a first victory over Ostapenko, playing confidently to take the first set. But Ostapenko snatched an early break in the second set and then held for a 3-0 lead and Swiatek was always struggling thereafter. She managed to break Ostapenko and served to level at 4-4, but instead was broken again to give the Latvian a 5-3 lead. Ostapenko then survived a break point to close out the set at 6-3. In the third, Swiatek had no answer to Ostapenko as she broke the champion twice in the first three games to take 3-0 lead. She then broke Swiatek in the fifth game to go 5-0 ahead. Although Ostapenko was broken as she served for the match, Swiatek again struggled on serve and was broken again to go tumbling out. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US Open: Defending champion Iga Swiatek crashes out in round of 16, loses to Jelena Ostapenko 3-6, 6-3, 6-1

Top seed and defending champion Iga Swiatek surged closer towards a US Open showdown with Coco Gauff on Friday while 23-time Grand Slam winner Novak Djokovic targeted a place in the last 16.

Swiatek briefly put sentiment to one side as she demolished 145th-ranked Slovenian qualifier and best friend Kaja Juvan 6-0, 6-1 in just 49 minutes to storm into the fourth round.

"I didn't like the fact that I was kind of winning with my best friend," said world number one Swiatek.&nbsp;"It was like playing against a sister because I've known her for so long. I don't have many friends but she's my best friend so that was the toughest part for sure," she said.&nbsp;

The Pole is bidding to become the first woman to successfully defend her US Open crown since Serena Williams won a hat-trick of titles from 2012-2014.

She could meet 2017 French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko next ahead of a potential quarter-final clash with in-form home favourite Gauff.&nbsp;

Sixth seed Gauff plays Belgium's Elise Mertens to kick off the evening session on Arthur Ashe.

Czech 10th seed Karolina Muchova&nbsp;qualified for the last 16 courtesy of a 7-6 (7/0), 6-3 win over Taylor Townsend.

She goes on to play China's Wang Xinyu who battled into the fourth round of a Grand Slam for the first time by coming from a set down to oust Slovakia's Anna Karolina Schmiedlova 4-6, 6-3, 6-2.

The 21-year-old from Shenzhen had never been further than the first round at the US Open before this year.

American 14th seed Tommy Paul advanced with a four-set win over Spain's Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, heading into week two of the tournament for the first time as well.

<h2>Djokovic faces fellow Serb&nbsp;</h2>

Djokovic can take another stride towards a record-extending men's 24th Grand Slam crown when he meets Laslo Djere in an-all Serbian match-up in the night session on Arthur Ashe.

"I'm pleased with the way I'm feeling, playing on the court," said Djokovic, who has dropped only 11 games through the first two rounds. "Can always be better, but first two rounds didn't spend too much time on the court and played very solid and hopefully I can keep building," he added.

Djere, the 32nd seed, is trying to reach the fourth round of a major for the first time in a career marked by the trauma of losing both of his parents to cancer by the time he was 23.

"He had a lot of struggles with his family and private issues. You know, had to endure all of that," Djokovic said. "It says a lot about his mental resilience. It's great for Serbian tennis that we have a matchup in the third round. So one Serbian is going to be definitely in the fourth round, which is always great for our tennis," he stated.

American No.1 Taylor Fritz later plays teenage Czech qualifier Jakub Mensik, the world number 206 and youngest man to reach the US Open third round since 1990. Mensik celebrated his 18th birthday on Friday.

Former Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina, who received a walkover in the second round, also faces Romanian veteran Sorana Cirstea under the lights on Louis Armstrong.

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Top seed and defending champion Iga Swiatek surged closer towards a US Open showdown with Coco Gauff on Friday while 23-time Grand Slam winner Novak Djokovic targeted a place in the last 16.

Top seed and defending champion Iga Swiatek surged closer towards a US Open showdown with Coco Gauff on Friday while 23-time Grand Slam winner Novak Djokovic targeted a place in the last 16. Swiatek briefly put sentiment to one side as she demolished 145th-ranked Slovenian qualifier and best friend Kaja Juvan 6-0, 6-1 in just 49 minutes to storm into the fourth round. "I didn't like the fact that I was kind of winning with my best friend," said world number one Swiatek. "It was like playing against a sister because I've known her for so long. I don't have many friends but she's my best friend so that was the toughest part for sure," she said. The Pole is bidding to become the first woman to successfully defend her US Open crown since Serena Williams won a hat-trick of titles from 2012-2014. She could meet 2017 French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko next ahead of a potential quarter-final clash with in-form home favourite Gauff. Sixth seed Gauff plays Belgium's Elise Mertens to kick off the evening session on Arthur Ashe. Czech 10th seed Karolina Muchova qualified for the last 16 courtesy of a 7-6 (7/0), 6-3 win over Taylor Townsend. She goes on to play China's Wang Xinyu who battled into the fourth round of a Grand Slam for the first time by coming from a set down to oust Slovakia's Anna Karolina Schmiedlova 4-6, 6-3, 6-2. The 21-year-old from Shenzhen had never been further than the first round at the US Open before this year. American 14th seed Tommy Paul advanced with a four-set win over Spain's Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, heading into week two of the tournament for the first time as well. Djokovic faces fellow Serb Djokovic can take another stride towards a record-extending men's 24th Grand Slam crown when he meets Laslo Djere in an-all Serbian match-up in the night session on Arthur Ashe. "I'm pleased with the way I'm feeling, playing on the court," said Djokovic, who has dropped only 11 games through the first two rounds. "Can always be better, but first two rounds didn't spend too much time on the court and played very solid and hopefully I can keep building," he added. Djere, the 32nd seed, is trying to reach the fourth round of a major for the first time in a career marked by the trauma of losing both of his parents to cancer by the time he was 23. "He had a lot of struggles with his family and private issues. You know, had to endure all of that," Djokovic said. "It says a lot about his mental resilience. It's great for Serbian tennis that we have a matchup in the third round. So one Serbian is going to be definitely in the fourth round, which is always great for our tennis," he stated. American No.1 Taylor Fritz later plays teenage Czech qualifier Jakub Mensik, the world number 206 and youngest man to reach the US Open third round since 1990. Mensik celebrated his 18th birthday on Friday. Former Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina, who received a walkover in the second round, also faces Romanian veteran Sorana Cirstea under the lights on Louis Armstrong. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Remorseful Iga Swiatek romps at US Open as Novak Djokovic eyes last 16

The US Open Day 3 saw a string of big upsets as women’s No.11 seed and former Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova lost in straight sets to Caroline Wozniacki as the Danish star continued her fairytale return. The day also saw easy wins for three-time champion Novak Djokovic and women’s defending champion Iga Swiatek. In big upsets, Stefanos Tsitsipas and Casper Ruud of Norway crashed out in the men’s division.

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CAROLINE ON THE COMEBACK! 
 
She's into Round 2 of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USOpen</a> in her return to tennis. <a href="https://t.co/ivwFEijYTs">pic.twitter.com/ivwFEijYTs</a>
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) <a href="https://twitter.com/usopen/status/1697088564092166574?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Wozniacki spoils Kvitova’s party</h2>

At the famous Arthur Ash Stadium, things did not go according to plan for No.11 seed Kvitova as she crashed out in the second round. A 7-5, 7-6(5) win saw Dane Wozniacki continue her remarkable run as she won in straight sets. She stretched and broke her Czech opponent at the decisive stage in the first set to pocket it while it needed a tiebreaker win to clinch the second set. She will now face Jennifer Brady of the United States in the third round.

<h2>Djokovic, Swiatek ease in round three</h2>

Three-time champion Novak Djokovic did not have many concerns as he got the better of Bernabe Zapata Miralles of Spain in three sets. The 23-time Grand Slam champion dropped only six games on his way to the third round having won the contest 6-4, 6-1, 6-1. He will now face countryman Laslo Djere in round three.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-coach-rahul-dravid-answers-all-experimenting-questions-says-didnt-do-for-sake-of-it-630582">India coach Rahul Dravid answers all 'experimenting' questions, says didn't do for sake of it</a>

In the women’s section defending champion Iga Swiatek made light work of Australian Daria Saville as she booked a round three berth. It took only 94 minutes for the Poland star to get past Saville as she beat her 6-3, 6-4. She will take on Kaja Juvan of Slovenia in the next round.

<h2>Big upsets</h2>

In big upsets of the day, last year’s runner-up Casper Ruud was stunned by Zhang Zhizhen to knock the Norwegian out of the US Open. The 67th-ranked Zhang avenged his loss to the Norwegian fifth seed at the French Open, where he also reached the third round, advancing 6-4, 5-7, 6-2, 0-6, 6-2. In another major news, despite serving for the match, former French Open runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas was knocked out of the US Open as he lost 7-5, 6-7 (2), 6-7 (5), 7-6 (6), 6-3 in just over four hours.

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The US Open Day 3 saw a string of big upsets as women’s No.11 seed and former Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova lost in straight sets to Caroline Wozniacki as the Danish star continued her fairytale return.

The US Open Day 3 saw a string of big upsets as women’s No.11 seed and former Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova lost in straight sets to Caroline Wozniacki as the Danish star continued her fairytale return. The day also saw easy wins for three-time champion Novak Djokovic and women’s defending champion Iga Swiatek. In big upsets, Stefanos Tsitsipas and Casper Ruud of Norway crashed out in the men’s division. CAROLINE ON THE COMEBACK! She's into Round 2 of the #USOpen in her return to tennis. pic.twitter.com/ivwFEijYTs — US Open Tennis (@usopen) August 31, 2023 × Wozniacki spoils Kvitova’s party At the famous Arthur Ash Stadium, things did not go according to plan for No.11 seed Kvitova as she crashed out in the second round. A 7-5, 7-6(5) win saw Dane Wozniacki continue her remarkable run as she won in straight sets. She stretched and broke her Czech opponent at the decisive stage in the first set to pocket it while it needed a tiebreaker win to clinch the second set. She will now face Jennifer Brady of the United States in the third round. Djokovic, Swiatek ease in round three Three-time champion Novak Djokovic did not have many concerns as he got the better of Bernabe Zapata Miralles of Spain in three sets. The 23-time Grand Slam champion dropped only six games on his way to the third round having won the contest 6-4, 6-1, 6-1. He will now face countryman Laslo Djere in round three. ALSO READ | India coach Rahul Dravid answers all 'experimenting' questions, says didn't do for sake of it In the women’s section defending champion Iga Swiatek made light work of Australian Daria Saville as she booked a round three berth. It took only 94 minutes for the Poland star to get past Saville as she beat her 6-3, 6-4. She will take on Kaja Juvan of Slovenia in the next round. Big upsets In big upsets of the day, last year’s runner-up Casper Ruud was stunned by Zhang Zhizhen to knock the Norwegian out of the US Open. The 67th-ranked Zhang avenged his loss to the Norwegian fifth seed at the French Open, where he also reached the third round, advancing 6-4, 5-7, 6-2, 0-6, 6-2. In another major news, despite serving for the match, former French Open runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas was knocked out of the US Open as he lost 7-5, 6-7 (2), 6-7 (5), 7-6 (6), 6-3 in just over four hours. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US Open 2023: Wozniacki stuns Kvitova in straight sets, Djokovic, Swiatek advance; Ruud, Tsitsipas out

Novak Djokovic sailed into the US&nbsp;Open&nbsp;third round on Wednesday in his quest for a 24th Grand Slam triumph as Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff stayed on a quarter-final collision course in New York.

Djokovic climbed through the gears against 76th-ranked Bernabe Zapata Miralles, winning 13 of the last 15 games to ease through 6-4, 6-1, 6-1 in two hours on Arthur Ashe Stadium court.

Next up for the Serbian star is compatriot and 32nd seed Laslo Djere, with Djokovic keeping up his record of always reaching at least the last 32 in New York.

"At 36 years of age, after 20 years of coming to New York, I still have the hunger to play my best tennis on this court," said Djokovic, a three-time US&nbsp;Open&nbsp;champion.

"I have the experience and understanding of what needs to be done in the important moments. Preserving the energy and focusing on the present moment."

Defending champion and world number one Swiatek swept past Australia's Daria Saville 6-3, 6-4.

The Pole is bidding to become the first woman to successfully defend her US&nbsp;Open&nbsp;crown since Serena Williams won a hat-trick of titles from 2012-2014.

"It wasn't easy but I'm happy I tried to play my game and play aggressively with a lot of intensity and I'm just happy to be in the third round," said Swiatek, aiming for her fifth Grand Slam triumph.

Swiatek will now play Slovenia's Kaja Juvan on Friday for a place in the last 16.

Gauff, 19, brushed aside 16-year-old Mirra Andreeva, the youngest player in the draw, 6-3, 6-2 to continue her strong run on hard courts this summer after titles in Washington and Cincinnati.

The sixth seed, viewed as one of the favourites in New York, takes on Belgium's Elise Mertens for a place in the last 16 after getting the better of Andreeva for the second time in three Grand Slams.

"I just learned to be aggressive, because if you give her something she is going to take advantage," said Gauff, who overcame Andreeva in three sets at Roland Garros in June.

"She has a great future in front of her - I think she is going to be back on this stage many more times."

Mertens, the 32nd seed, battled back from the brink by saving two match points in the second-set tie-break to knock off the dangerous Collins, last year's Australian&nbsp;Open&nbsp;runner-up.

The Belgian, who had the support of three-time US&nbsp;Open&nbsp;winner Kim Clijsters in her box, advanced 3-6, 7-6 (9/7), 6-1 and now awaits Gauff.

<h2>Tsitsipas dumped out&nbsp;</h2>

Stefanos Tsitsipas' miserable US&nbsp;Open&nbsp;run continued as he crashed out to 21-year-old Swiss qualifier Dominic Stricker in five sets.

Tsitsipas served for the match at 5-3 in the fourth set but the 128th-ranked Stricker rallied to prevail 7-5, 6-7 (2/7), 6-7 (5/7), 7-6 (8/6), 6-3 in just over four hours.

"I don't know how. I did it somehow. Actually a bit speechless but it's a great day," said Stricker, who had won just one Grand Slam match before this week.

Greece's Tsitsipas, the seventh seed and a two-time Grand Slam finalist, has never progressed beyond round three in six visits to New York.

Czech 10th seed Karolina Muchova, this year's French&nbsp;Open&nbsp;finalist, sailed past Magdalena Frech in straight sets.

Olympic gold medallist Belinda Bencic ended the run of British qualifier Lily Miyazaki 6-3, 6-3, but Brazilian 19th seed Beatriz Haddad Maia was dumped out by Taylor Townsend 7-6 (7/1), 7-5.

Fifth seed Casper Ruud, runner-up at three of the past six majors including last year's US&nbsp;Open, takes on China's Zhang Zhizhen in his second-round match on Wednesday.

Elena Rybakina, the women's fourth seed, plays Australian Ajla Tomljanovic in the night session on Louis Armstrong, while old rivals Petra Kvitova and Caroline Wozniacki also meet under the lights.

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Novak Djokovic sailed into the US Open third round on Wednesday in his quest for a 24th Grand Slam triumph as Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff stayed on a quarter-final collision course in New York.

Novak Djokovic sailed into the US Open third round on Wednesday in his quest for a 24th Grand Slam triumph as Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff stayed on a quarter-final collision course in New York. Djokovic climbed through the gears against 76th-ranked Bernabe Zapata Miralles, winning 13 of the last 15 games to ease through 6-4, 6-1, 6-1 in two hours on Arthur Ashe Stadium court. Next up for the Serbian star is compatriot and 32nd seed Laslo Djere, with Djokovic keeping up his record of always reaching at least the last 32 in New York. "At 36 years of age, after 20 years of coming to New York, I still have the hunger to play my best tennis on this court," said Djokovic, a three-time US Open champion. "I have the experience and understanding of what needs to be done in the important moments. Preserving the energy and focusing on the present moment." Defending champion and world number one Swiatek swept past Australia's Daria Saville 6-3, 6-4. The Pole is bidding to become the first woman to successfully defend her US Open crown since Serena Williams won a hat-trick of titles from 2012-2014. "It wasn't easy but I'm happy I tried to play my game and play aggressively with a lot of intensity and I'm just happy to be in the third round," said Swiatek, aiming for her fifth Grand Slam triumph. Swiatek will now play Slovenia's Kaja Juvan on Friday for a place in the last 16. Gauff, 19, brushed aside 16-year-old Mirra Andreeva, the youngest player in the draw, 6-3, 6-2 to continue her strong run on hard courts this summer after titles in Washington and Cincinnati. The sixth seed, viewed as one of the favourites in New York, takes on Belgium's Elise Mertens for a place in the last 16 after getting the better of Andreeva for the second time in three Grand Slams. "I just learned to be aggressive, because if you give her something she is going to take advantage," said Gauff, who overcame Andreeva in three sets at Roland Garros in June. "She has a great future in front of her - I think she is going to be back on this stage many more times." Mertens, the 32nd seed, battled back from the brink by saving two match points in the second-set tie-break to knock off the dangerous Collins, last year's Australian Open runner-up. The Belgian, who had the support of three-time US Open winner Kim Clijsters in her box, advanced 3-6, 7-6 (9/7), 6-1 and now awaits Gauff. Tsitsipas dumped out Stefanos Tsitsipas' miserable US Open run continued as he crashed out to 21-year-old Swiss qualifier Dominic Stricker in five sets. Tsitsipas served for the match at 5-3 in the fourth set but the 128th-ranked Stricker rallied to prevail 7-5, 6-7 (2/7), 6-7 (5/7), 7-6 (8/6), 6-3 in just over four hours. "I don't know how. I did it somehow. Actually a bit speechless but it's a great day," said Stricker, who had won just one Grand Slam match before this week. Greece's Tsitsipas, the seventh seed and a two-time Grand Slam finalist, has never progressed beyond round three in six visits to New York. Czech 10th seed Karolina Muchova, this year's French Open finalist, sailed past Magdalena Frech in straight sets. Olympic gold medallist Belinda Bencic ended the run of British qualifier Lily Miyazaki 6-3, 6-3, but Brazilian 19th seed Beatriz Haddad Maia was dumped out by Taylor Townsend 7-6 (7/1), 7-5. Fifth seed Casper Ruud, runner-up at three of the past six majors including last year's US Open, takes on China's Zhang Zhizhen in his second-round match on Wednesday. Elena Rybakina, the women's fourth seed, plays Australian Ajla Tomljanovic in the night session on Louis Armstrong, while old rivals Petra Kvitova and Caroline Wozniacki also meet under the lights. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Djokovic ramps up US Open bid as Swiatek, Gauff stroll

Iga Swiatek launched the defence of her US Open crown with an emphatic opening victory on Monday as Novak Djokovic eyed a return to the top of the men's world rankings on his long-awaited return to the tournament.

Swiatek, bidding to become the first woman to successfully defend the US Open title since Serena Williams won a hat-trick of titles from 2012-2014, needed less than an hour to defeat Sweden's Rebecca Peterson 6-0, 6-1.

The 22-year-old world number one from Poland overwhelmed her opponent with five breaks of serve and 20 winners to complete victory in just 58 minutes on the Arthur Ashe Stadium.

"I wanted to start the tournament with everything I was focusing on. I was happy to play a great game, with all the pressure and expectations I was happy on the court," said Swiatek after her win.

Swiatek, targeting her fifth Grand Slam title, will face Daria Saville of Australia in round two.

While Swiatek advanced safely, there was no such luck for Greece's eighth seed Maria Sakkari, who became the highest ranked casualty of early round action, beaten 6-4, 6-4 by Spain's Rebeka Masarova, ranked 71st in the world.

Eighteenth seed Victoria Azarenka of Belarus was among the first women to book their place in the second round, swatting aside French wild card entrant Fiona Ferro 6-1, 6-2 in early play on Monday.

Tenth seed Karolina Muchova of the Czech Republic also made it safely through, blowing away Australia's Storm Hunter 6-4, 6-0 in 1hr 5mins.

Elsewhere in the women's draw on Monday, US teenager Coco Gauff takes centre-stage with a night game against German qualifier Laura Siegemund, looking for a breakthrough first major win.

The 19-year-old American arrives in New York in blistering form after winning titles in Washington and Cincinnati.&nbsp;

<h2>Djokovic eyes No.1&nbsp;</h2>

In the men's draw meanwhile, all eyes will be on Novak Djokovic as the Serbian star returns to the US Open for the first time since his defeat in the 2021 final.

Djokovic, chasing a record-extending 24th Grand Slam singles title in New York, opens his campaign with a night game on the Arthur Ashe main arena knowing that a victory will propel him back to world number one.

The 36-year-old, whose refusal to get vaccinated against Covid-19 prevented him from playing in the 2022 tournament, faces France's world number 84 Alexandre Muller later Monday.

A victory will guarantee Djokovic returns to the top of tennis's global rankings, regardless of how the rest of the US Open fortnight pans out.

Djokovic needs just 20 points to regain the No.1 ranking after defeating current No.1 and defending US Open champion Carlos Alcaraz in the Cincinnati Open earlier this month.

Alcaraz, who defeated Djokovic in a five-set Wimbledon final classic in July, opens his US Open campaign on Tuesday.

<h2>Dominic Thiem ends miserable sequence of six consecutive first-round exits</h2>

In early action in the men's draw on Monday, 2020 US Open champion Dominic Thiem ended a miserable sequence of six consecutive first-round exits at Grand Slam tournaments by defeating 25th seed Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan in straight sets.

Thiem, whose career has been blown off course by wrist and knee injuries since his lone Grand Slam win three years ago, won 6-3, 6-2, 6-4.

"It took time to get my confidence back in my wrist, now I am back on track," a delighted Thiem said in an on-court interview.&nbsp;

"I feel the game is back in place and a straight set victory today I couldn't be happier," he added.

In other men's matches on Monday, American 10th seed Frances Tiafoe and ninth seed Taylor Fritz open their campaign dreaming of ending the host nation's two-decade long wait for a Grand Slam title.&nbsp;

No American man has won a Grand Slam singles crown since Andy Roddick lifted the 2003 US Open.&nbsp;

Tiafoe takes on compatriot Learner Tien, while Fritz faces Steve Johnson in another all-American match-up.

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Iga Swiatek launched the defence of her US Open crown with an emphatic opening victory on Monday as Novak Djokovic eyed a return to the top of the men's world rankings on his long-awaited return to the tournament.

Iga Swiatek launched the defence of her US Open crown with an emphatic opening victory on Monday as Novak Djokovic eyed a return to the top of the men's world rankings on his long-awaited return to the tournament. Swiatek, bidding to become the first woman to successfully defend the US Open title since Serena Williams won a hat-trick of titles from 2012-2014, needed less than an hour to defeat Sweden's Rebecca Peterson 6-0, 6-1. The 22-year-old world number one from Poland overwhelmed her opponent with five breaks of serve and 20 winners to complete victory in just 58 minutes on the Arthur Ashe Stadium. "I wanted to start the tournament with everything I was focusing on. I was happy to play a great game, with all the pressure and expectations I was happy on the court," said Swiatek after her win. Swiatek, targeting her fifth Grand Slam title, will face Daria Saville of Australia in round two. While Swiatek advanced safely, there was no such luck for Greece's eighth seed Maria Sakkari, who became the highest ranked casualty of early round action, beaten 6-4, 6-4 by Spain's Rebeka Masarova, ranked 71st in the world. Eighteenth seed Victoria Azarenka of Belarus was among the first women to book their place in the second round, swatting aside French wild card entrant Fiona Ferro 6-1, 6-2 in early play on Monday. Tenth seed Karolina Muchova of the Czech Republic also made it safely through, blowing away Australia's Storm Hunter 6-4, 6-0 in 1hr 5mins. Elsewhere in the women's draw on Monday, US teenager Coco Gauff takes centre-stage with a night game against German qualifier Laura Siegemund, looking for a breakthrough first major win. The 19-year-old American arrives in New York in blistering form after winning titles in Washington and Cincinnati. Djokovic eyes No.1 In the men's draw meanwhile, all eyes will be on Novak Djokovic as the Serbian star returns to the US Open for the first time since his defeat in the 2021 final. Djokovic, chasing a record-extending 24th Grand Slam singles title in New York, opens his campaign with a night game on the Arthur Ashe main arena knowing that a victory will propel him back to world number one. The 36-year-old, whose refusal to get vaccinated against Covid-19 prevented him from playing in the 2022 tournament, faces France's world number 84 Alexandre Muller later Monday. A victory will guarantee Djokovic returns to the top of tennis's global rankings, regardless of how the rest of the US Open fortnight pans out. Djokovic needs just 20 points to regain the No.1 ranking after defeating current No.1 and defending US Open champion Carlos Alcaraz in the Cincinnati Open earlier this month. Alcaraz, who defeated Djokovic in a five-set Wimbledon final classic in July, opens his US Open campaign on Tuesday. Dominic Thiem ends miserable sequence of six consecutive first-round exits In early action in the men's draw on Monday, 2020 US Open champion Dominic Thiem ended a miserable sequence of six consecutive first-round exits at Grand Slam tournaments by defeating 25th seed Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan in straight sets. Thiem, whose career has been blown off course by wrist and knee injuries since his lone Grand Slam win three years ago, won 6-3, 6-2, 6-4. "It took time to get my confidence back in my wrist, now I am back on track," a delighted Thiem said in an on-court interview. "I feel the game is back in place and a straight set victory today I couldn't be happier," he added. In other men's matches on Monday, American 10th seed Frances Tiafoe and ninth seed Taylor Fritz open their campaign dreaming of ending the host nation's two-decade long wait for a Grand Slam title. No American man has won a Grand Slam singles crown since Andy Roddick lifted the 2003 US Open. Tiafoe takes on compatriot Learner Tien, while Fritz faces Steve Johnson in another all-American match-up. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Swiatek off the mark as Djokovic eyes No.1 and Thiem wins in straight sets at US Open

Iga Swiatek proved to be a quick learner as she ousted Wimbledon champion&nbsp;Marketa Vondrousova 7-6 (7/2), 6-1 on Friday to reach the ATP/WTA Cincinnati Open semi-finals.

The top seed from Poland said she took lessons from a struggling performance in the first set and applied them perfectly in the second to sweep into the final four in a battle of current Grand Slam champions.

Swiatek, the US Open and Roland Garros holder, will play on Saturday for a place in the finals against either US seventh seed Coco Gauff or Italian qualifier Jasmine Paolini.

Swiatek lost serve twice in the opening set as she struggled with the lefty game of her Czech opponent,&nbsp;but broke as Vondrousova served for the set and eventually won a&nbsp;tie-breaker.

She then dominated in the second to claim victory after 93 minutes.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-sanju-samson-and-shreyas-iyer-harbhajan-singh-names-his-india-squad-for-asia-cup-2023-626652">No Sanju Samson and Shreyas Iyer! Harbhajan Singh names his India squad for Asia Cup 2023</a>

"I'm really happy with the performance," she said. "It's not easy to adjust to her spin.

"After the first&nbsp;set, I was determined to fight for every ball."

Swiatek said the second set was an entirely different story for her.

"I was more focused and I knew what worked," she said. "I learned from the first set. I knew exactly how I should play. That's&nbsp;why it was such a good performance."

Swiatek now stands 2-0 in the series after a victory in Paris three years ago. She was competing in her 12th quarter-final of the season from 13 events played.

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Iga Swiatek proved to be a quick learner as she ousted Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova 7-6 (7/2), 6-1 on Friday to reach the ATP/WTA Cincinnati Open semi-finals.

Iga Swiatek proved to be a quick learner as she ousted Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova 7-6 (7/2), 6-1 on Friday to reach the ATP/WTA Cincinnati Open semi-finals. The top seed from Poland said she took lessons from a struggling performance in the first set and applied them perfectly in the second to sweep into the final four in a battle of current Grand Slam champions. Swiatek, the US Open and Roland Garros holder, will play on Saturday for a place in the finals against either US seventh seed Coco Gauff or Italian qualifier Jasmine Paolini. Swiatek lost serve twice in the opening set as she struggled with the lefty game of her Czech opponent, but broke as Vondrousova served for the set and eventually won a tie-breaker. She then dominated in the second to claim victory after 93 minutes. ALSO READ | No Sanju Samson and Shreyas Iyer! Harbhajan Singh names his India squad for Asia Cup 2023 "I'm really happy with the performance," she said. "It's not easy to adjust to her spin. "After the first set, I was determined to fight for every ball." Swiatek said the second set was an entirely different story for her. "I was more focused and I knew what worked," she said. "I learned from the first set. I knew exactly how I should play. That's why it was such a good performance." Swiatek now stands 2-0 in the series after a victory in Paris three years ago. She was competing in her 12th quarter-final of the season from 13 events played. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tennis: Iga Swiatek learns on the job to reach Cincinnati Open semis, beats Wimbledon champion Vondrousova

Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova halted Caroline Wozniacki's comeback in its tracks at the WTA Montreal Open on Wednesday, ousting the former world number one in straight sets.

Wozniacki had returned with a bang from a more than three-year layoff on Tuesday, winning 6-2, 6-2 against 115th ranked Kimberly Birrell.

But the 33-year-old Danish star found Vondrousova a tougher proposition, with the ninth seed claiming a 6-2, 7-5 victory to set up a last 16 clash with Coco Gauff.

Vondrousova looked to be motoring towards a brisk victory after taking a 6-2, 3-0 lead over Wozniacki.

Vondrousova then had a point for a 4-0 lead but doubled faulted twice to let Wozniacki off the hook.

The veteran then rallied brilliantly to take a 4-3 lead and had a break point in the eighth game for a 5-3 lead.

Vondrousova however held for 4-4 and then earned a break for a 6-5 lead before serving to love to seal victory.

Elsewhere on Wednesday, world number one Iga Swiatek entered the competition with an opening 7-6 (8/6), 6-2 win over Karolina Pliskova.

The victory left reigning US Open champion Swiatek needing victory over Karolina Muchova on Thursday to ensure she will hold on to the number one ranking for a 72nd week.

Her clash with the Czech Republic's Muchova on Thursday is a rematch of the duo's three-set battle in the French Open final earlier this year, won by Swiatek.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-23-revised-schedule-india-vs-pakistan-to-take-place-on-october-14-eight-more-fixtures-rescheduled-623882">CWC '23 revised schedule: India vs Pakistan to take place on October 14, eight more fixtures rescheduled</a>

"It's nice to have some challenges and overcome them," Swiatek after Wednesday's win. "It wasn't an easy first round, but I'm happy that I stayed solid, and I could close it in the first set."&nbsp;

Swiatek, who entered the tournament fresh from a victory in Warsaw last month, is now relishing another duel with Muchova.

"We have to be ready for the next match and kind of expect that anything can happen because tennis can be pretty unpredictable," Swiatek said.&nbsp;

"You know, one player can have a bad day. At the same time the other one can play the best tennis of their life."

In other games on Wednesday, 2022 Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina finally closed out victory over Jennifer Brady in a match that had started on Tuesday before being halted.

Rybakina, seeded three, edged past the returning Brady 6-7(3/7), 7-6(7/5), 6-3 and will now face unseeded Sloane Stephens of the United States in the last 16.

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Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova halted Caroline Wozniacki's comeback in its tracks at the WTA Montreal Open on Wednesday, ousting the former world number one in straight sets.

Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova halted Caroline Wozniacki's comeback in its tracks at the WTA Montreal Open on Wednesday, ousting the former world number one in straight sets. Wozniacki had returned with a bang from a more than three-year layoff on Tuesday, winning 6-2, 6-2 against 115th ranked Kimberly Birrell. But the 33-year-old Danish star found Vondrousova a tougher proposition, with the ninth seed claiming a 6-2, 7-5 victory to set up a last 16 clash with Coco Gauff. Vondrousova looked to be motoring towards a brisk victory after taking a 6-2, 3-0 lead over Wozniacki. Vondrousova then had a point for a 4-0 lead but doubled faulted twice to let Wozniacki off the hook. The veteran then rallied brilliantly to take a 4-3 lead and had a break point in the eighth game for a 5-3 lead. Vondrousova however held for 4-4 and then earned a break for a 6-5 lead before serving to love to seal victory. Elsewhere on Wednesday, world number one Iga Swiatek entered the competition with an opening 7-6 (8/6), 6-2 win over Karolina Pliskova. The victory left reigning US Open champion Swiatek needing victory over Karolina Muchova on Thursday to ensure she will hold on to the number one ranking for a 72nd week. Her clash with the Czech Republic's Muchova on Thursday is a rematch of the duo's three-set battle in the French Open final earlier this year, won by Swiatek. ALSO READ | CWC '23 revised schedule: India vs Pakistan to take place on October 14, eight more fixtures rescheduled "It's nice to have some challenges and overcome them," Swiatek after Wednesday's win. "It wasn't an easy first round, but I'm happy that I stayed solid, and I could close it in the first set." Swiatek, who entered the tournament fresh from a victory in Warsaw last month, is now relishing another duel with Muchova. "We have to be ready for the next match and kind of expect that anything can happen because tennis can be pretty unpredictable," Swiatek said. "You know, one player can have a bad day. At the same time the other one can play the best tennis of their life." In other games on Wednesday, 2022 Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina finally closed out victory over Jennifer Brady in a match that had started on Tuesday before being halted. Rybakina, seeded three, edged past the returning Brady 6-7(3/7), 7-6(7/5), 6-3 and will now face unseeded Sloane Stephens of the United States in the last 16. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tennis: Caroline Wozniacki comeback halted by Marketa Vondrousova at WTA Montreal Open

'Super Mom' Elina Svitolina has reached the semifinals of the Wimbledon ladies singles Championships after a major upset saw her get the better of number one seed Iga Swiatek. A contest that lasted three sets saw the majestic Svitolina run riot to claim a place in the last four having won the contest 7-5, 6-7, 6-2. The win now sees her face Czech Republic’s Markéta Vondroušová for a place in Saturday’s final of the Wimbledon Championships.

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The courtside view of <a href="https://twitter.com/ElinaSvitolina?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ElinaSvitolina</a>'s moment ✨<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Wimbledon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Wimbledon</a> <a href="https://t.co/Xlc01lHo4b">pic.twitter.com/Xlc01lHo4b</a>
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<h2>Elina Svitolina delivers big upset</h2>

Coming into the contest, Svitolina was on a fairytale run having returned from maternity earlier in the year. However, her journey was expected to end on Tuesday as she took on number one seed Swiatek in the quarterfinal. Things though took an upside-down turn as the Ukrainian dominated from the first set and looked on course to clinch the contest. However, a resolute Swiatek showed nerves of steel to come back and win the second set tiebreak and take the contest to the deciding third set.

In the third set, the former world number three was again on top and broke Swiatek twice to gain supremacy in the decider. She was offered five break points and capitalised on two as the dream run continued for the wild card holder.

She will now search for more history as an unlikely title triumph could see her join Goran Ivanišević to win the Wimbledon singles title as a wild card entrant.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/main-guys-know-theyll-get-selected-gavaskar-takes-an-indirect-dig-at-rohit-kohli-ahead-of-wi-tests-614272">'Main guys know they'll get selected...': Gavaskar takes an indirect dig at Rohit, Kohli ahead of WI Tests</a>

<h2>Svitolina’s fairytale continues</h2>

Svitolina is enjoying a dream run at Wimbledon this year, having missed most of last season on maternity leave, she dispatched Venus Williams, No. 28 seed Elise Mertens, former Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin and No. 19 seed Victoria Azarenka on her way to the quarterfinal.

Svitolina will now face Markéta Vondroušová with one of the unseeded players guaranteed to make the Wimbledon final. Both Svitolina and Vondroušová will look to create history as they try to become the first unseeded female player to win the Wimbledon singles championship. The lowest-ranked Wimbledon singles champion tag is currently held by Venus Williams when she beat Marion Bartoli 6–4, 6–1 in the final.

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'Super Mom' Elina Svitolina has reached the semifinals of the Wimbledon ladies singles Championships after a major upset saw her get the better of number one seed Iga Swiatek.

'Super Mom' Elina Svitolina has reached the semifinals of the Wimbledon ladies singles Championships after a major upset saw her get the better of number one seed Iga Swiatek. A contest that lasted three sets saw the majestic Svitolina run riot to claim a place in the last four having won the contest 7-5, 6-7, 6-2. The win now sees her face Czech Republic’s Markéta Vondroušová for a place in Saturday’s final of the Wimbledon Championships. The courtside view of @ElinaSvitolina's moment ✨#Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/Xlc01lHo4b — Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 11, 2023 × Elina Svitolina delivers big upset Coming into the contest, Svitolina was on a fairytale run having returned from maternity earlier in the year. However, her journey was expected to end on Tuesday as she took on number one seed Swiatek in the quarterfinal. Things though took an upside-down turn as the Ukrainian dominated from the first set and looked on course to clinch the contest. However, a resolute Swiatek showed nerves of steel to come back and win the second set tiebreak and take the contest to the deciding third set. In the third set, the former world number three was again on top and broke Swiatek twice to gain supremacy in the decider. She was offered five break points and capitalised on two as the dream run continued for the wild card holder. She will now search for more history as an unlikely title triumph could see her join Goran Ivanišević to win the Wimbledon singles title as a wild card entrant. ALSO READ | 'Main guys know they'll get selected...': Gavaskar takes an indirect dig at Rohit, Kohli ahead of WI Tests Svitolina’s fairytale continues Svitolina is enjoying a dream run at Wimbledon this year, having missed most of last season on maternity leave, she dispatched Venus Williams, No. 28 seed Elise Mertens, former Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin and No. 19 seed Victoria Azarenka on her way to the quarterfinal. Svitolina will now face Markéta Vondroušová with one of the unseeded players guaranteed to make the Wimbledon final. Both Svitolina and Vondroušová will look to create history as they try to become the first unseeded female player to win the Wimbledon singles championship. The lowest-ranked Wimbledon singles champion tag is currently held by Venus Williams when she beat Marion Bartoli 6–4, 6–1 in the final. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Wimbledon 2023: 'Super Mom' Elina Svitolina upsets No.1 seed Iga Swiatek to reach semifinals

World number one Iga&nbsp;Swiatek&nbsp;cruised into the Wimbledon second round with a 6-1 6-3 mauling of China's Zhu Lin on Monday in a fine start to her quest for a first Grand Slam title on grass. The 22-year-old Pole, who won the French Open title for the third time last month to make it four Grand Slam crowns, has yet to get past the fourth round of the London major.

Swiatek&nbsp;looked good in her movement on the surface and showed no signs of any effects of the illness that had ruled her out of her Bad Homburg semi-final on Friday. "I felt really confident. I felt like I did a very good job," said&nbsp;Swiatek, a former junior champion at Wimbledon. "I feel really good after Roland Garros (French Open). After Roland Garros I took some time to appreciate what happened.

"Last year it was my second Grand Slam (at the French Open) and it felt overwhelming. This time I could focus on celebrating and actually at getting back to work with more peace in my head."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/blow-we-need-your-help-novak-djokovic-jokingly-requests-fans-to-dry-damp-wimbledon-court-watch-611509">'Blow, we need your help': Novak Djokovic jokingly requests fans to dry damp Wimbledon court - Watch</a>

Zhu, ranked 34th in the world, earned a break point in the first game but&nbsp;Swiatek&nbsp;won 11 points in a row to sprint into a 3-0 lead. Another break put&nbsp;Swiatek, a renowned slider on clay and hard courts who has often struggled with her movement on grass, firmly in the driving seat.

Zhu saved two set points at 5-0 but&nbsp;Swiatek&nbsp;sealed the first set a game later with a powerful crosscourt forehand winner. The pair traded breaks early in the second before&nbsp;Swiatek, who pulled out of her Bad Homburg semi-final on Friday due to illness, earned a second one and was 4-3 up when play was interrupted due to rain.

It resumed after the roof on Court One was shut but&nbsp;Swiatek&nbsp;needed only seven minutes to win the two games.

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World number one Iga Swiatek cruised into the Wimbledon second round with a 6-1 6-3 mauling of China's Zhu Lin on Monday in a fine start to her quest for a first Grand Slam title on grass.

World number one Iga Swiatek cruised into the Wimbledon second round with a 6-1 6-3 mauling of China's Zhu Lin on Monday in a fine start to her quest for a first Grand Slam title on grass. The 22-year-old Pole, who won the French Open title for the third time last month to make it four Grand Slam crowns, has yet to get past the fourth round of the London major. Swiatek looked good in her movement on the surface and showed no signs of any effects of the illness that had ruled her out of her Bad Homburg semi-final on Friday. "I felt really confident. I felt like I did a very good job," said Swiatek, a former junior champion at Wimbledon. "I feel really good after Roland Garros (French Open). After Roland Garros I took some time to appreciate what happened. "Last year it was my second Grand Slam (at the French Open) and it felt overwhelming. This time I could focus on celebrating and actually at getting back to work with more peace in my head." Also Read: 'Blow, we need your help': Novak Djokovic jokingly requests fans to dry damp Wimbledon court - Watch Zhu, ranked 34th in the world, earned a break point in the first game but Swiatek won 11 points in a row to sprint into a 3-0 lead. Another break put Swiatek, a renowned slider on clay and hard courts who has often struggled with her movement on grass, firmly in the driving seat. Zhu saved two set points at 5-0 but Swiatek sealed the first set a game later with a powerful crosscourt forehand winner. The pair traded breaks early in the second before Swiatek, who pulled out of her Bad Homburg semi-final on Friday due to illness, earned a second one and was 4-3 up when play was interrupted due to rain. It resumed after the roof on Court One was shut but Swiatek needed only seven minutes to win the two games. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tennis: Top seed Iga Swiatek thrashes China's Zhu Lin to launch Wimbledon title quest

World number one Iga Swiatek suffered a Wimbledon scare on Friday when she was forced to withdraw from her Bad Homburg semi-final with suspected food poisoning.

"I'm so sorry but I have to pull out of my match today. I had a restless night because of some fever and possible food poisoning," the Polish star wrote on Instagram.

"I'm not able to perform today and I need to take care of myself. I hope I'll be fine soon. Your support in Bad Homburg was amazing, thank you."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc23-chris-gayle-predicts-virat-kohlis-future-following-home-world-cup-picks-semi-finalists-610486">CWC'23: Chris Gayle predicts Virat Kohli's future following home World Cup, picks semi-finalists</a>

US Open and French Open champion Swiatek was due to face Italy's Lucia Bronzetti in the semi-finals of the German grass-court event.

The 22-year-old will now focus on recovering in time to play at Wimbledon which gets underway on Monday.

Swiatek is due to face China's Zhu Lin in the first round at the All England Club where she has yet to get past the last 16.

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World number one Iga Swiatek suffered a Wimbledon scare on Friday when she was forced to withdraw from her Bad Homburg semi-final with suspected food poisoning. "I'm so sorry but I have to pull out of my match today.

World number one Iga Swiatek suffered a Wimbledon scare on Friday when she was forced to withdraw from her Bad Homburg semi-final with suspected food poisoning. "I'm so sorry but I have to pull out of my match today. I had a restless night because of some fever and possible food poisoning," the Polish star wrote on Instagram. "I'm not able to perform today and I need to take care of myself. I hope I'll be fine soon. Your support in Bad Homburg was amazing, thank you." ALSO READ | CWC'23: Chris Gayle predicts Virat Kohli's future following home World Cup, picks semi-finalists US Open and French Open champion Swiatek was due to face Italy's Lucia Bronzetti in the semi-finals of the German grass-court event. The 22-year-old will now focus on recovering in time to play at Wimbledon which gets underway on Monday. Swiatek is due to face China's Zhu Lin in the first round at the All England Club where she has yet to get past the last 16. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Wimbledon 2023: Iga Swiatek in scare after food poisoning; forced to withdraw from her Bad Homburg semi-final

Defending women's champion Elena Rybakina will face American Shelby Rogers in the opening round at Wimbledon while men's second seed Novak Djokovic will begin his title defence against Argentina's 67th-ranked Pedro Cachin.

Friday's draw at the All England Club pitched women's top seed Iga Swiatek against China's 33rd-ranked Zhu Lin, a potentially tricky first hurdle for the Pole. Second seed Aryna Sabalenka, who could not play last year because of Wimbledon's ban on Russian and Belarusian players following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, will open her campaign against Hungarian Panna Udvardy.

American veteran Venus Williams against Ukraine's Elina Svitolina in one of the standout matches of the opening round while home favourite Andy Murray, bidding for an unlikely third title at the age of 36, plays British wildcard Ryan Peniston.

Murray could face fifth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in round two although first Tsitsipas must get passed former U.S. Open champion Dominic Thiem who has tumbled down the rankings. American teenager Coco Gauff, who many are tipping for a long run, has a tough opener against fellow former French Open runner-up and compatriot Sofia Kenin.

Djokovic, who has won the last four men's titles at Wimbledon and is bidding to match Roger Federer's eight, is not seeded one this year having been replaced at the top of the rankings by Spain's Carlos Alcaraz.

Alcaraz, who warmed up by winning the title at Queen's Club last week, faces a tricky opener against experienced Frenchman Jeremy Chardy. Last year's runner-up Nick Kyrgios, who has hardly played this year and whose participation is in doubt because of injury, plays dangerous Belgian wildcard David Goffin in a standout first round clash.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-polands-kamil-majchrzak-banned-for-13-months-after-failing-drug-test-610529">Also Read:&nbsp;Tennis: Poland's Kamil Majchrzak banned for 13 months after failing drug test</a>

Russian third seed Daniil Medvedev, a potential semi-final opponent for Alcaraz, returns to Wimbledon with a first round against British wildcard Arthur Fery. The projected women's quarter-finals based on seedings would see Swiatek meet seventh seed Coco Gauff while third seed Rybakina could face Tunisia's Ons Jabeur.

Swiatek is positioned to face American fourth seed Jessica Pegula in the semi-finals. The men's quarter-finals, if the seeds progress, would see Alcaraz up against Denmark's sixth seed Holger Rune with Medvedev up against Tsitsipas while in the bottom half Djokovic could face seventh-seeded Russian Andrey Rublev with fourth seed Casper Ruud potentially facing Jannik Sinner.

Djokovic, bidding for a record-extending 24th Grand Slam title, will face Cachin on Monday while Rybakina plays the traditional Tuesday Centre Court opener for women's defending champions.

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Defending women's champion Elena Rybakina will face American Shelby Rogers in the opening round at Wimbledon while men's second seed Novak Djokovic will begin his title defence against Argentina's 67th-ranked Pedro Cachin.

Defending women's champion Elena Rybakina will face American Shelby Rogers in the opening round at Wimbledon while men's second seed Novak Djokovic will begin his title defence against Argentina's 67th-ranked Pedro Cachin. Friday's draw at the All England Club pitched women's top seed Iga Swiatek against China's 33rd-ranked Zhu Lin, a potentially tricky first hurdle for the Pole. Second seed Aryna Sabalenka, who could not play last year because of Wimbledon's ban on Russian and Belarusian players following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, will open her campaign against Hungarian Panna Udvardy. American veteran Venus Williams against Ukraine's Elina Svitolina in one of the standout matches of the opening round while home favourite Andy Murray, bidding for an unlikely third title at the age of 36, plays British wildcard Ryan Peniston. Murray could face fifth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in round two although first Tsitsipas must get passed former U.S. Open champion Dominic Thiem who has tumbled down the rankings. American teenager Coco Gauff, who many are tipping for a long run, has a tough opener against fellow former French Open runner-up and compatriot Sofia Kenin. Djokovic, who has won the last four men's titles at Wimbledon and is bidding to match Roger Federer's eight, is not seeded one this year having been replaced at the top of the rankings by Spain's Carlos Alcaraz. Alcaraz, who warmed up by winning the title at Queen's Club last week, faces a tricky opener against experienced Frenchman Jeremy Chardy. Last year's runner-up Nick Kyrgios, who has hardly played this year and whose participation is in doubt because of injury, plays dangerous Belgian wildcard David Goffin in a standout first round clash. Also Read: Tennis: Poland's Kamil Majchrzak banned for 13 months after failing drug test Russian third seed Daniil Medvedev, a potential semi-final opponent for Alcaraz, returns to Wimbledon with a first round against British wildcard Arthur Fery. The projected women's quarter-finals based on seedings would see Swiatek meet seventh seed Coco Gauff while third seed Rybakina could face Tunisia's Ons Jabeur. Swiatek is positioned to face American fourth seed Jessica Pegula in the semi-finals. The men's quarter-finals, if the seeds progress, would see Alcaraz up against Denmark's sixth seed Holger Rune with Medvedev up against Tsitsipas while in the bottom half Djokovic could face seventh-seeded Russian Andrey Rublev with fourth seed Casper Ruud potentially facing Jannik Sinner. Djokovic, bidding for a record-extending 24th Grand Slam title, will face Cachin on Monday while Rybakina plays the traditional Tuesday Centre Court opener for women's defending champions. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Tennis: Novak Djokovic to face Pedro Cachin in Wimbledon 2023 opener, Rybakina up against Rogers

Claycourt specialist Iga Swiatek has never been beyond the fourth round at Wimbledon but the world number one says the transition to slick grass surfaces is becoming a little easier each year. The Pole warmed up for this year's grasscourt Grand Slam by reaching her first quarter-final on the surface at the Bad Homburg Open. She brushed aside Switzerland's Jil Teichmann 6-3 6-1 in the last 16 of the WTA 250 event on Wednesday for her 37th win of the season but only an eighth career victory on grass.

"It's getting easier every year to convert my claycourt style to more grasscourt style," said Swiatek, who won her third French Open title this month. The 22-year-old, whose coach Tomasz Wiktorowski previously worked with former world number two Agnieszka Radwanska, said her grass game would improve with experience.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-i-wouldnt-personally-encourage-it-veteran-john-mcenroe-slams-saudi-merge-609905">Tennis: 'I wouldn't personally encourage it', veteran John McEnroe slams Saudi merge</a>

"I have a coach who knows how to coach players who are good on grass courts like Aga Radwanska, so I'm pretty positive about my future on grass." Swiatek faces Anna Blinkova later on Thursday for a place in the semi-finals of the German event. "I think it's my first grasscourt quarter-final, so pretty excited," she added. "For now I'm just focusing on the process and learning as much as possible."

Wimbledon runs from July 3-16.

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Claycourt specialist Iga Swiatek has never been beyond the fourth round at Wimbledon but the world number one says the transition to slick grass surfaces is becoming a little easier each year.

Claycourt specialist Iga Swiatek has never been beyond the fourth round at Wimbledon but the world number one says the transition to slick grass surfaces is becoming a little easier each year. The Pole warmed up for this year's grasscourt Grand Slam by reaching her first quarter-final on the surface at the Bad Homburg Open. She brushed aside Switzerland's Jil Teichmann 6-3 6-1 in the last 16 of the WTA 250 event on Wednesday for her 37th win of the season but only an eighth career victory on grass. "It's getting easier every year to convert my claycourt style to more grasscourt style," said Swiatek, who won her third French Open title this month. The 22-year-old, whose coach Tomasz Wiktorowski previously worked with former world number two Agnieszka Radwanska, said her grass game would improve with experience. Also Read: Tennis: 'I wouldn't personally encourage it', veteran John McEnroe slams Saudi merge "I have a coach who knows how to coach players who are good on grass courts like Aga Radwanska, so I'm pretty positive about my future on grass." Swiatek faces Anna Blinkova later on Thursday for a place in the semi-finals of the German event. "I think it's my first grasscourt quarter-final, so pretty excited," she added. "For now I'm just focusing on the process and learning as much as possible." Wimbledon runs from July 3-16. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Tennis: Transition from clay to grass easier every year, says Iga Swiatek ahead of Wimbledon 2023

Iga Swiatek battled past Karolina Muchova 6-2, 5-7, 6-4 to win her third French Open title on Saturday and become the first woman to successfully defend the Roland Garros title since 2007. The 22-year-old Swiatek is just the third woman in the Open era to win each of her first four Grand Slam finals, the Pole adding to her 2020 and 2022 titles in Paris and last year's US Open triumph.

Monica Seles and Naomi Osaka are the only other players to accomplish the feat.

Swiatek, the world number one from Poland, is also the youngest woman to claim back-to-back French Open titles since Monica Seles in the early 1990s. Justine Henin was the last woman to win successive Roland Garros crowns when she captured her third in a row and fourth in total 16 years ago.

Swiatek's latest coronation caps another dominant two weeks on the clay in Paris, where her record stands at 28 wins and two losses in five visits.

Muchova, at 43 in the world, was the fourth lowest ranked woman to reach the French Open final, her first championship match at a major.

Swiatek, then just 19, was ranked 54 when she lifted her first trophy -- three years after Jelena Ostapenko's shock triumph. Muchova's compatriot Renata Tomanova was runner-up in 1976.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-final-2023-when-and-where-to-watch-manchester-city-vs-inter-milan-live-streaming-details-602938">Champions League Final 2023: When and where to watch Manchester City vs Inter Milan, Live Streaming details</a>

However, the unseeded Czech had won all five matches in her career against players in the top three -- four of them at Grand Slams -- having stunned Aryna Sabalenka in the semi-finals.

On guard against an underdog with a habit of taking those down at the top, Swiatek quickly applied pressure on the 26-year-old Muchova.

A miscued forehand from Muchova gave the Pole two break points in the second game which she took with minimal fuss.

The top seed consolidated with a quick hold before Muchova got on the board in game four, drawing loud roars from the Court Philippe Chatrier crowd.

Muchova carved out a break opportunity to get back on serve but Swiatek snuffed it out in a protracted fifth game -- pumping her fist in relief as she surged 4-1 up.

Swiatek saw another break point come and go the following game, but her disappointment was brief as she easily won the next two games to wrap up the opening set.

<h2>- Back and forth -</h2>

Muchova had outfoxed her rivals with her cunning variety throughout the tournament, but Swiatek had clearly done her homework since the Czech won their only other meeting in Prague in 2019. A loose service game allowed Swiatek to pull 3-0 in front in the second set, but Muchova refused to roll over, displaying the grit and resolve she used to rally from match point down against Sabalenka in the previous round.

A crunching forehand down the line retrieved the break before Muchova levelled at three games each.

Swiatek slowed Muchova's momentum as the pair traded holds before the reigning champion showed her first real sign of nerves, double-faulting to leave her rival serving at 5-4 to force a decider.

Muchova couldn't take advantage as Swiatek broke right back, but another shaky game from the Pole presented her with another shot.

Two set points passed Muchova by but she set up a third with a brilliant backhand volley on the stretch, with Swiatek then pumping her return long to send the match to a third set.

Muchova sensed the tide was turning in her favour as Swiatek's title defence began to creak, the Pole broken to love as her opponent rattled off eight straight points to move 2-0 ahead.

But with her formidable record at Roland Garros, Swiatek came storming back and snatched three games on the bounce.

Muchova broke for 4-3 only for Swiatek to hit back immediately and then secure a nervy hold, resisting another break point, to move within a game of victory.

Swiatek swiftly raced 30-0 ahead and earned two championship points when Muchova dragged a forehand wide, the Czech succumbing in the most brutal of ways with a double fault to end a thrilling contest.

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Iga Swiatek battled past Karolina Muchova 6-2, 5-7, 6-4 to win her third French Open title on Saturday and become the first woman to successfully defend the Roland Garros title since 2007.

Iga Swiatek battled past Karolina Muchova 6-2, 5-7, 6-4 to win her third French Open title on Saturday and become the first woman to successfully defend the Roland Garros title since 2007. The 22-year-old Swiatek is just the third woman in the Open era to win each of her first four Grand Slam finals, the Pole adding to her 2020 and 2022 titles in Paris and last year's US Open triumph. Monica Seles and Naomi Osaka are the only other players to accomplish the feat. Swiatek, the world number one from Poland, is also the youngest woman to claim back-to-back French Open titles since Monica Seles in the early 1990s. Justine Henin was the last woman to win successive Roland Garros crowns when she captured her third in a row and fourth in total 16 years ago. Swiatek's latest coronation caps another dominant two weeks on the clay in Paris, where her record stands at 28 wins and two losses in five visits. Muchova, at 43 in the world, was the fourth lowest ranked woman to reach the French Open final, her first championship match at a major. Swiatek, then just 19, was ranked 54 when she lifted her first trophy -- three years after Jelena Ostapenko's shock triumph. Muchova's compatriot Renata Tomanova was runner-up in 1976. ALSO READ: Champions League Final 2023: When and where to watch Manchester City vs Inter Milan, Live Streaming details However, the unseeded Czech had won all five matches in her career against players in the top three -- four of them at Grand Slams -- having stunned Aryna Sabalenka in the semi-finals. On guard against an underdog with a habit of taking those down at the top, Swiatek quickly applied pressure on the 26-year-old Muchova. A miscued forehand from Muchova gave the Pole two break points in the second game which she took with minimal fuss. The top seed consolidated with a quick hold before Muchova got on the board in game four, drawing loud roars from the Court Philippe Chatrier crowd. Muchova carved out a break opportunity to get back on serve but Swiatek snuffed it out in a protracted fifth game -- pumping her fist in relief as she surged 4-1 up. Swiatek saw another break point come and go the following game, but her disappointment was brief as she easily won the next two games to wrap up the opening set. - Back and forth - Muchova had outfoxed her rivals with her cunning variety throughout the tournament, but Swiatek had clearly done her homework since the Czech won their only other meeting in Prague in 2019. A loose service game allowed Swiatek to pull 3-0 in front in the second set, but Muchova refused to roll over, displaying the grit and resolve she used to rally from match point down against Sabalenka in the previous round. A crunching forehand down the line retrieved the break before Muchova levelled at three games each. Swiatek slowed Muchova's momentum as the pair traded holds before the reigning champion showed her first real sign of nerves, double-faulting to leave her rival serving at 5-4 to force a decider. Muchova couldn't take advantage as Swiatek broke right back, but another shaky game from the Pole presented her with another shot. Two set points passed Muchova by but she set up a third with a brilliant backhand volley on the stretch, with Swiatek then pumping her return long to send the match to a third set. Muchova sensed the tide was turning in her favour as Swiatek's title defence began to creak, the Pole broken to love as her opponent rattled off eight straight points to move 2-0 ahead. But with her formidable record at Roland Garros, Swiatek came storming back and snatched three games on the bounce. Muchova broke for 4-3 only for Swiatek to hit back immediately and then secure a nervy hold, resisting another break point, to move within a game of victory. Swiatek swiftly raced 30-0 ahead and earned two championship points when Muchova dragged a forehand wide, the Czech succumbing in the most brutal of ways with a double fault to end a thrilling contest. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

French Open 2023: Iga Swiatek beats Karolina Muchova to win women's singles title

Defending champion Iga Swiatek felt the heat as she booked a French Open final spot for the third time in four years with a 6-2 7-6(7) win over Brazilian Beatriz Haddad Maia on Thursday.

The world number one found it tough going during the second set but when it came to the tiebreak, she produced her full array of shots to outwit Haddad Maia and set up a Saturday showdown with unseeded Czech Karolina Muchova.

Swiatek, who lifted the Suzanne Lenglen Cup last year and in 2020, will retain top spot in the WTA rankings after world number two Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus was knocked out earlier.

As fans waved a Polish 'Poland Garros' flag in stands that were half empty when the match started, Swiatek showed rare signs of frustrations but managed to hold it together when it mattered to prevail as the clock hit the 9pm mark.

The 14th seeded Haddad Maia, whose career has been hampered by multiple injuries and 10-month doping ban in 2019-20, had played four consecutive three-set matches to fight her way to the semi-finals but she finally met her match in Swiatek.

Swiatek's previous matches had lasted only a little over an hour each, while Haddad Maia had spent nearly 13 hours on court.

Sent scurrying right, left and centre by Swiatek, the Brazilian relied on her power to try and stop the top seed from running away with the match.

Haddad Maia broke to love in the opening game on Court Philippe Chatrier, where most of the ticket holders for a sold-out day had decided to skip the start of what turned out to be an entertaining encounter.

It did not take Swiatek long to find her groove as she stole her opponent's serve to level for 1-1. She got a second break for 4-2 when Haddad Maia netted a drop shot attempt and sealed the set with another break of serve.

It seemed that Swiatek would stroll through the second set, but Haddad Maier had other ideas.

The Brazilian picked herself up and finally gave Swiatek a run for her money, setting up two break points at 4-4 with a stunning forehand down the line.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-karolina-muchova-stuns-aryna-sabalenka-in-epic-comeback-to-reach-final-602289">French Open: Karolina Muchova stuns Aryna Sabalenka in epic comeback to reach final</a>

With two big first serves, Swiatek saved them and staved off another one before holding, forcing Haddad Maia to serve to stay in the match.

The Brazilian held on to stretch the match into the tiebreak but she wasted a set point when she buried an easy backhand into the net.

Swiatek earned her first match point with a jaw-dropping crosscourt backhand winner, which her opponent saved with a stunning forehand down the line. The Pole had a second opportunity to close out the match at 8-7 and converted it at the net before throwing her fist in into the air in relief. 
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Defending champion Iga Swiatek felt the heat as she booked a French Open final spot for the third time in four years with a 6-2 7-6(7) win over Brazilian Beatriz Haddad Maia on Thursday.

Defending champion Iga Swiatek felt the heat as she booked a French Open final spot for the third time in four years with a 6-2 7-6(7) win over Brazilian Beatriz Haddad Maia on Thursday. The world number one found it tough going during the second set but when it came to the tiebreak, she produced her full array of shots to outwit Haddad Maia and set up a Saturday showdown with unseeded Czech Karolina Muchova. Swiatek, who lifted the Suzanne Lenglen Cup last year and in 2020, will retain top spot in the WTA rankings after world number two Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus was knocked out earlier. As fans waved a Polish 'Poland Garros' flag in stands that were half empty when the match started, Swiatek showed rare signs of frustrations but managed to hold it together when it mattered to prevail as the clock hit the 9pm mark. The 14th seeded Haddad Maia, whose career has been hampered by multiple injuries and 10-month doping ban in 2019-20, had played four consecutive three-set matches to fight her way to the semi-finals but she finally met her match in Swiatek. Swiatek's previous matches had lasted only a little over an hour each, while Haddad Maia had spent nearly 13 hours on court. Sent scurrying right, left and centre by Swiatek, the Brazilian relied on her power to try and stop the top seed from running away with the match. Haddad Maia broke to love in the opening game on Court Philippe Chatrier, where most of the ticket holders for a sold-out day had decided to skip the start of what turned out to be an entertaining encounter. It did not take Swiatek long to find her groove as she stole her opponent's serve to level for 1-1. She got a second break for 4-2 when Haddad Maia netted a drop shot attempt and sealed the set with another break of serve. It seemed that Swiatek would stroll through the second set, but Haddad Maier had other ideas. The Brazilian picked herself up and finally gave Swiatek a run for her money, setting up two break points at 4-4 with a stunning forehand down the line. Also Read | French Open: Karolina Muchova stuns Aryna Sabalenka in epic comeback to reach final With two big first serves, Swiatek saved them and staved off another one before holding, forcing Haddad Maia to serve to stay in the match. The Brazilian held on to stretch the match into the tiebreak but she wasted a set point when she buried an easy backhand into the net. Swiatek earned her first match point with a jaw-dropping crosscourt backhand winner, which her opponent saved with a stunning forehand down the line. The Pole had a second opportunity to close out the match at 8-7 and converted it at the net before throwing her fist in into the air in relief. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Iga Swiatek feels the heat but ends Haddad Maia’s run to reach Paris final

Defending Champion Iga Swiatek will take on Karolina Muchova in the French Open final on Saturday. World No. 1 Swiatek will have the chance to win her third Roland Garros crown, while Muchova will be playing in her maiden grand slam final. Will Swiatek continue her dominance in Paris?

Swiatek takes on Muchova in French Open final | WION Sports

Holder Iga Swiatek was tested by American sixth seed Coco Gauff in a rematch of their 2022 French Open title clash but the world number one showed her class to secure a 6-4 6-2 victory and reach the semi-finals on Wednesday (June 7).

The top seed will take on Brazil's Beatriz Haddad Maia in the last four as she continues her bid for a third crown in four years at Roland Garros and her fourth Grand Slam title overall.

Swiatek has adopted a more ruthless approach to her title defence dishing out four bagels in as many rounds but the Pole found the going tougher against a determined Gauff in the see-sawing opening set on Court Philippe Chatrier.

After drawing first blood, she allowed Gauff to hit back and level up at 3-3 by crashing a volley into the net before getting back on track to take the advantage in the clash with a superb crosscourt winner.

The relieved 22-year-old pumped her fist and let out a big scream after that decisive point.

Swiatek took a tumble at the net after nearly being struck by a Gauff rocket before producing a tight hold for a 2-1 lead in the next set and dusted herself off to grab another break with a perfectly placed lob.

She settled the contest by pouncing on Gauff's serve again and finished when the 19-year-old found the net.

Haddad Maia left seventh seed Ons Jabeur's hopes of becoming the first African woman to win a singles Grand Slam in ruins after a 3-6 7-6(5) 6-1 victory.

Jabeur was bidding to reach her third Grand Slam semi-final in less than a year but her plans were scuppered by the 14th-seeded left-hander who battled back bravely to book her own maiden last four Slam appearance.

She is the first Brazilian woman since Maria Bueno in 1968 to reach a Slam semi-final and the first female player from her country to book a last four spot at Roland Garros in the Open Era.

The Tunisian, a finalist in Wimbledon and the U.S. Open last year, bagged a couple of quick breaks at the start to move into the driving seat with Haddad Maia having trouble dealing with her opponent's flat groundstrokes.

The Brazilian, having already become the first woman from her country in 55 years to reach the quarter-finals at a Grand Slam, decided to run Jabeur instead.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-virat-kohli-hopes-for-another-rohit-sharma-century-at-the-oval-601649">WTC Final: Virat Kohli hopes for another Rohit Sharma century at the Oval</a>

The Tunisian then deployed her much-feared weapon, plopping drop shots over the net with Haddad Maia quickly going 4-1 down.

Jabeur served out the first set a little later with the left hander sending a forehand wide on the first set point.

Both players held serve without conceding a single break point until 5-5 when Jabeur went 40-15 up on Haddad Maia's serve but failed to convert either.

Her opponent also wasted a chance in the next game but levelled after winning the tiebreak.

She then raced to a 5-1 lead with Jabeur sending an easy forehand long on her opponent's first match point.

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Holder Iga Swiatek was tested by American sixth seed Coco Gauff in a rematch of their 2022 French Open title clash but the world number one showed her class to secure a 6-4 6-2 victory and reach the semi-finals on Wednesday (June 7).

Holder Iga Swiatek was tested by American sixth seed Coco Gauff in a rematch of their 2022 French Open title clash but the world number one showed her class to secure a 6-4 6-2 victory and reach the semi-finals on Wednesday (June 7). The top seed will take on Brazil's Beatriz Haddad Maia in the last four as she continues her bid for a third crown in four years at Roland Garros and her fourth Grand Slam title overall. Swiatek has adopted a more ruthless approach to her title defence dishing out four bagels in as many rounds but the Pole found the going tougher against a determined Gauff in the see-sawing opening set on Court Philippe Chatrier. After drawing first blood, she allowed Gauff to hit back and level up at 3-3 by crashing a volley into the net before getting back on track to take the advantage in the clash with a superb crosscourt winner. The relieved 22-year-old pumped her fist and let out a big scream after that decisive point. Swiatek took a tumble at the net after nearly being struck by a Gauff rocket before producing a tight hold for a 2-1 lead in the next set and dusted herself off to grab another break with a perfectly placed lob. She settled the contest by pouncing on Gauff's serve again and finished when the 19-year-old found the net. Haddad Maia left seventh seed Ons Jabeur's hopes of becoming the first African woman to win a singles Grand Slam in ruins after a 3-6 7-6(5) 6-1 victory. Jabeur was bidding to reach her third Grand Slam semi-final in less than a year but her plans were scuppered by the 14th-seeded left-hander who battled back bravely to book her own maiden last four Slam appearance. She is the first Brazilian woman since Maria Bueno in 1968 to reach a Slam semi-final and the first female player from her country to book a last four spot at Roland Garros in the Open Era. The Tunisian, a finalist in Wimbledon and the U.S. Open last year, bagged a couple of quick breaks at the start to move into the driving seat with Haddad Maia having trouble dealing with her opponent's flat groundstrokes. The Brazilian, having already become the first woman from her country in 55 years to reach the quarter-finals at a Grand Slam, decided to run Jabeur instead. ALSO READ | WTC Final: Virat Kohli hopes for another Rohit Sharma century at the Oval The Tunisian then deployed her much-feared weapon, plopping drop shots over the net with Haddad Maia quickly going 4-1 down. Jabeur served out the first set a little later with the left hander sending a forehand wide on the first set point. Both players held serve without conceding a single break point until 5-5 when Jabeur went 40-15 up on Haddad Maia's serve but failed to convert either. Her opponent also wasted a chance in the next game but levelled after winning the tiebreak. She then raced to a 5-1 lead with Jabeur sending an easy forehand long on her opponent's first match point. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

French Open: Iga Swiatek outclasses Coco Gauff in straight sets to reach semifinals

World number one and defending champion Iga Swiatek took just 51 minutes to reach the French Open fourth round on Saturday as Coco Gauff ended 16-year-old Mirra Andreeva's memorable Paris debut.

Swiatek blitzed 80th-ranked Wang Xinyu of China 6-0, 6-0 on the back of 21 winners as the 22-year-old Pole took another step closer to becoming the first woman since Justine Henin in 2007 to win back-to-back titles at Roland Garros.

Of the six sets she has played so far, four have been to love. In all she has dropped just eight games through three rounds.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-inch-one-step-closer-to-completing-a-treble-after-2-1-win-over-united-in-fa-cup-final-600187">Manchester City inch one step closer to completing a treble after 2-1 win over United in FA Cup Final</a>

"It was a really solid performance from me. It's not easy to stay disciplined and keep your focus," said Swiatek, who also won the title in 2020.

Swiatek will face Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko, who breezed past 2019 US Open champion Bianca Andreescu for the loss of just two games, for a quarter-final berth.

Her path to the final was made easier earlier Saturday by the withdrawal of Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina, a possible last-four opponent, due to illness.

Rybakina had been due to face Sara Sorribes Tormo of Spain in the opening match on Court Philippe Chatrier but said she was suffering with a fever.

<h2>Rybakina out</h2>

"I had fever and a headache and it's difficult to breathe. I tried to play in the warm-up but I feel it's the right decision to withdraw," said the 23-year-old Kazakh.

Sorribes Tormo, ranked 132 in the world, will face Beatriz Haddad Maia, the first Brazilian to make the last 16 in Paris since 1979, for a place in the last eight.

World number six Gauff, the runner-up to Swiatek last year, came back from a set down to defeat Andreeva 6-7 (5/7), 6-1, 6-1.

Andreeva, ranked a lowly 143, had come through qualifying and was the youngest player to make the third round since 2005.

"Mirra is super young and has a big future," said 19-year-old Gauff who will face Anna Karolina Schmiedlova of Slovakia for a quarter-finals spot.

Andreeva was fortunate to avoid a default for petulantly hitting a ball into the Court Suzanne Lenglen crowd during the first set.

"Right after I thought that it was a really stupid move from me," she admitted.

Seventh-ranked Ons Jabeur made sure five of the top seeds reached the last 16 by defeating Serbian qualifier Olga Danilovic 4-6, 6-4, 6-2.

World number four Casper Ruud, the runner-up to Rafael Nadal in 2022, dropped the first set before easing to a 4-6, 6-4, 6-1, 6-4 win against China's Zhang Zhizhen.

The 26-year-old Zhang was bidding to become the first Chinese man since 1936 to reach the fourth round.

<h2>South American push</h2>

Ruud will next face in-form Nicolas Jarry after the Chilean edged out Marcos Giron of the United States 6-2, 6-3, 6-7 (7/9), 6-3.

Jarry arrived in Paris having claimed the Geneva clay court title and will be making a maiden appearance in the last 16 of a major.

Also featuring in the second week for the first time will be 49th-ranked Tomas Martin Etcheverry of Argentina who stunned 15th seed Borna Coric 6-3, 7-6 (7/5), 6-2.

Etcheverry will next face Japanese 27th seed Yoshihito Nishioka who edged a dramatic five-set battle with qualifier Thiago Seyboth Wild to reach the fourth round for the first time.

Nishioka battled back to win 3-6, 7-6 (10/8), 2-6, 6-4, 6-0 against the Brazilian who had knocked out world number two Daniil Medvedev in the first round.

Francisco Cerundolo of Argentina joined the list of South American first-timers in the second week by seeing off US ninth seed Taylor Fritz 3-6, 6-3, 6-4, 7-5.

Cerundolo next meets Danish world number six and 2022 quarter-finalist Holger Rune who eased past 231st-ranked Argentinian qualifier Genaro Alberto Olivieri 6-4, 6-1, 6-3.

Daniel Altmaier, who won the fifth longest match in French Open history in the last round, succumbed in straight sets to Grigor Dimitrov.

The Bulgarian will next face Alexander Zverev who edged out Frances Tiafoe of the United States 3-6, 7-6 (7/3), 6-1, 7-6 (7/5).

Zverev suffered ankle ligament damage in a semi-final loss to Nadal in 2022 which ended his season.

"It's been the hardest year of my life," said German 22nd seed Zverev. "I'm so happy to be back." 
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World number one and defending champion Iga Swiatek took just 51 minutes to reach the French Open fourth round on Saturday as Coco Gauff ended 16-year-old Mirra Andreeva's memorable Paris debut.

World number one and defending champion Iga Swiatek took just 51 minutes to reach the French Open fourth round on Saturday as Coco Gauff ended 16-year-old Mirra Andreeva's memorable Paris debut. Swiatek blitzed 80th-ranked Wang Xinyu of China 6-0, 6-0 on the back of 21 winners as the 22-year-old Pole took another step closer to becoming the first woman since Justine Henin in 2007 to win back-to-back titles at Roland Garros. Of the six sets she has played so far, four have been to love. In all she has dropped just eight games through three rounds. Also Read: Manchester City inch one step closer to completing a treble after 2-1 win over United in FA Cup Final "It was a really solid performance from me. It's not easy to stay disciplined and keep your focus," said Swiatek, who also won the title in 2020. Swiatek will face Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko, who breezed past 2019 US Open champion Bianca Andreescu for the loss of just two games, for a quarter-final berth. Her path to the final was made easier earlier Saturday by the withdrawal of Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina, a possible last-four opponent, due to illness. Rybakina had been due to face Sara Sorribes Tormo of Spain in the opening match on Court Philippe Chatrier but said she was suffering with a fever. Rybakina out "I had fever and a headache and it's difficult to breathe. I tried to play in the warm-up but I feel it's the right decision to withdraw," said the 23-year-old Kazakh. Sorribes Tormo, ranked 132 in the world, will face Beatriz Haddad Maia, the first Brazilian to make the last 16 in Paris since 1979, for a place in the last eight. World number six Gauff, the runner-up to Swiatek last year, came back from a set down to defeat Andreeva 6-7 (5/7), 6-1, 6-1. Andreeva, ranked a lowly 143, had come through qualifying and was the youngest player to make the third round since 2005. "Mirra is super young and has a big future," said 19-year-old Gauff who will face Anna Karolina Schmiedlova of Slovakia for a quarter-finals spot. Andreeva was fortunate to avoid a default for petulantly hitting a ball into the Court Suzanne Lenglen crowd during the first set. "Right after I thought that it was a really stupid move from me," she admitted. Seventh-ranked Ons Jabeur made sure five of the top seeds reached the last 16 by defeating Serbian qualifier Olga Danilovic 4-6, 6-4, 6-2. World number four Casper Ruud, the runner-up to Rafael Nadal in 2022, dropped the first set before easing to a 4-6, 6-4, 6-1, 6-4 win against China's Zhang Zhizhen. The 26-year-old Zhang was bidding to become the first Chinese man since 1936 to reach the fourth round. South American push Ruud will next face in-form Nicolas Jarry after the Chilean edged out Marcos Giron of the United States 6-2, 6-3, 6-7 (7/9), 6-3. Jarry arrived in Paris having claimed the Geneva clay court title and will be making a maiden appearance in the last 16 of a major. Also featuring in the second week for the first time will be 49th-ranked Tomas Martin Etcheverry of Argentina who stunned 15th seed Borna Coric 6-3, 7-6 (7/5), 6-2. Etcheverry will next face Japanese 27th seed Yoshihito Nishioka who edged a dramatic five-set battle with qualifier Thiago Seyboth Wild to reach the fourth round for the first time. Nishioka battled back to win 3-6, 7-6 (10/8), 2-6, 6-4, 6-0 against the Brazilian who had knocked out world number two Daniil Medvedev in the first round. Francisco Cerundolo of Argentina joined the list of South American first-timers in the second week by seeing off US ninth seed Taylor Fritz 3-6, 6-3, 6-4, 7-5. Cerundolo next meets Danish world number six and 2022 quarter-finalist Holger Rune who eased past 231st-ranked Argentinian qualifier Genaro Alberto Olivieri 6-4, 6-1, 6-3. Daniel Altmaier, who won the fifth longest match in French Open history in the last round, succumbed in straight sets to Grigor Dimitrov. The Bulgarian will next face Alexander Zverev who edged out Frances Tiafoe of the United States 3-6, 7-6 (7/3), 6-1, 7-6 (7/5). Zverev suffered ankle ligament damage in a semi-final loss to Nadal in 2022 which ended his season. "It's been the hardest year of my life," said German 22nd seed Zverev. "I'm so happy to be back." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

French Open: Iga Swiatek serves double bagel in 51-minute blitz vs Wang Xinyu

Italian eighth seed Jannik Sinner missed two match points before being knocked out of the French Open in the second round on Thursday by German Daniel Altmaier after a dramatic five-set battle.

Altmaier, the world number 79, twice staved off match points late in the fourth set before eventually prevailing 6-7 (0/7), 7-6 (9/7), 1-6, 7-6 (7/4), 7-5 after five hours and 26&nbsp;minutes on Court Suzanne Lenglen.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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BATTLE ROYALE 👏 
 
5 hours and 26 mins later, <a href="https://twitter.com/daniel_altmaier?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@daniel_altmaier</a> outlasts Sinner in an epic 7-6(0), 7-6(7), 6-1, 7-6(4), 7-5 to make the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> third round. <a href="https://t.co/v6EeOd1WFk">pic.twitter.com/v6EeOd1WFk</a>
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/status/1664306449298669569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The pair also played a five-set match in the US Open first round last year, when Sinner was the victor.

Altmaier will take on Grigor Dimitrov for a spot in the second week.

The 24-year-old twice averted defeat when Sinner was serving for a last-32 place in set four before winning the third tie-break of the match.

Altmaier, who reached the fourth round in 2020, broke in game seven of the decider but then also failed to serve it out.

He immediately gave himself another chance, though, and this time crept over the line as he secured a surprise win on his fifth match point after a thrilling final game in which he also saved three break points.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-how-can-beat-india-beat-australia-and-win-the-world-test-championship-final-599154">EXPLAINED - How can India beat Australia and win the World Test Championship Final</a>

<h2>Swiatek reaches next round</h2>

Reigning champion Iga Swiatek maintained her bid to become the first woman to successfully defend the French Open title in 16 years by cruising into the third round on Thursday.

The world number one crushed American Claire Liu 6-4, 6-0 on Court Philippe Chatrier.

Swiatek, who turned 22 on Wednesday, will face China's Wang Xinyu on Saturday for a place in the second week.

The Polish star could lose her world number one ranking for the first time in over a year next week if she fails to lift a fourth Grand Slam singles title.

Justine Henin was the last woman to win back-to-back Roland Garros titles when she lifted her third in a row and fourth in total in 2007.

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Italian eighth seed Jannik Sinner missed two match points before being knocked out of the French Open in the second round on Thursday by German Daniel Altmaier after a dramatic five-set battle.

Italian eighth seed Jannik Sinner missed two match points before being knocked out of the French Open in the second round on Thursday by German Daniel Altmaier after a dramatic five-set battle. Altmaier, the world number 79, twice staved off match points late in the fourth set before eventually prevailing 6-7 (0/7), 7-6 (9/7), 1-6, 7-6 (7/4), 7-5 after five hours and 26 minutes on Court Suzanne Lenglen. BATTLE ROYALE 👏 5 hours and 26 mins later, @daniel_altmaier outlasts Sinner in an epic 7-6(0), 7-6(7), 6-1, 7-6(4), 7-5 to make the #RolandGarros third round. pic.twitter.com/v6EeOd1WFk — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 1, 2023 × The pair also played a five-set match in the US Open first round last year, when Sinner was the victor. Altmaier will take on Grigor Dimitrov for a spot in the second week. The 24-year-old twice averted defeat when Sinner was serving for a last-32 place in set four before winning the third tie-break of the match. Altmaier, who reached the fourth round in 2020, broke in game seven of the decider but then also failed to serve it out. He immediately gave himself another chance, though, and this time crept over the line as he secured a surprise win on his fifth match point after a thrilling final game in which he also saved three break points. ALSO READ | EXPLAINED - How can India beat Australia and win the World Test Championship Final Swiatek reaches next round Reigning champion Iga Swiatek maintained her bid to become the first woman to successfully defend the French Open title in 16 years by cruising into the third round on Thursday. The world number one crushed American Claire Liu 6-4, 6-0 on Court Philippe Chatrier. Swiatek, who turned 22 on Wednesday, will face China's Wang Xinyu on Saturday for a place in the second week. The Polish star could lose her world number one ranking for the first time in over a year next week if she fails to lift a fourth Grand Slam singles title. Justine Henin was the last woman to win back-to-back Roland Garros titles when she lifted her third in a row and fourth in total in 2007. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

French Open: Swiatek powers into round three; Sinner dumped out by world no. 79 Altmaier

World number one Carlos Alcaraz faces a tough path to a maiden French Open title after being placed in the same half of the draw as 22-times Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic on Thursday. In the absence of 14-times winner and defending champion Rafael Nadal, who will miss the claycourt major through injury, all eyes are on Djokovic and Alcaraz.

The 20-year-old Alcaraz, who will play a qualifier in the opening round, could face some treacherous match-ups en route to a potential semi-final against world number three Djokovic with 2021 runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas, Lorenzo Musetti and Felix Auger-Aliassime in the top quarter of the draw. Djokovic, who starts against Aleksandar Kovacevic, has a seemingly smooth journey to the last four with Russian seventh seed Andrey Rublev his main threat.

World number two Daniil Medvedev, who plays a qualifier in the first round, is in the lower part of the draw and could face either last year's runner-up Casper Ruud or Norway's Holger Rune. Sixth seed Rune won the Munich title on clay this season and reached the final in Monte Carlo and Rome, losing to Medvedev in the Italian capital.

"It's going to be an emotional edition of the French Open after (tournament director) Amelie Mauresmo received a call from Rafael Nadal saying he could not take part in the tournament," French federation president Gilles Moretton said.

"It will also be emotional because it marks the 40th anniversary of Yannick Noah's triumph at Roland Garros."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-djokovic-has-great-chance-of-winning-french-open-2023-in-nadals-absence-john-mcenroe-596461">Tennis: Djokovic has great chance of winning French Open 2023 in Nadal’s absence, feels John McEnroe</a>

No French man has won the singles' title since 1983 and it would take a miracle to see one of them lift the Musketeers Cup on June 11. In the women's draw, defending champion and world number one Iga Swiatek will start against Cristina Bucsa, the world number 67.

She faces a potential quarter-final clash against Coco Gauff, the American she beat in last year's final. Swiatek, who retired in Rome with a thigh injury, has already started practising at Roland Garros this week. Anhelina Kalinina, who reached the final in Rome earlier this month, could stand in Gauff's way in the third round.

French hopes will rest on the shoulders of fifth seed Caroline Garcia, who is on a quarter-final collision course with second seed Aryna Sabalenka. Belarusian Sabalenka, the Australian Open champion, beat Swiatek in the final of the Madrid Open last month.

Rome champion Elena Rybakina of Kazakhstan is expected to have a smooth run to the last eight, where she could face Tunisian seventh seed Ons Jabeur.

World number one Carlos Alcaraz faces a tough path to a maiden French Open title after being placed in the same half of the draw as 22-times Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic on Thursday.

World number one Carlos Alcaraz faces a tough path to a maiden French Open title after being placed in the same half of the draw as 22-times Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic on Thursday. In the absence of 14-times winner and defending champion Rafael Nadal, who will miss the claycourt major through injury, all eyes are on Djokovic and Alcaraz. The 20-year-old Alcaraz, who will play a qualifier in the opening round, could face some treacherous match-ups en route to a potential semi-final against world number three Djokovic with 2021 runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas, Lorenzo Musetti and Felix Auger-Aliassime in the top quarter of the draw. Djokovic, who starts against Aleksandar Kovacevic, has a seemingly smooth journey to the last four with Russian seventh seed Andrey Rublev his main threat. World number two Daniil Medvedev, who plays a qualifier in the first round, is in the lower part of the draw and could face either last year's runner-up Casper Ruud or Norway's Holger Rune. Sixth seed Rune won the Munich title on clay this season and reached the final in Monte Carlo and Rome, losing to Medvedev in the Italian capital. "It's going to be an emotional edition of the French Open after (tournament director) Amelie Mauresmo received a call from Rafael Nadal saying he could not take part in the tournament," French federation president Gilles Moretton said. "It will also be emotional because it marks the 40th anniversary of Yannick Noah's triumph at Roland Garros." Also Read: Tennis: Djokovic has great chance of winning French Open 2023 in Nadal’s absence, feels John McEnroe No French man has won the singles' title since 1983 and it would take a miracle to see one of them lift the Musketeers Cup on June 11. In the women's draw, defending champion and world number one Iga Swiatek will start against Cristina Bucsa, the world number 67. She faces a potential quarter-final clash against Coco Gauff, the American she beat in last year's final. Swiatek, who retired in Rome with a thigh injury, has already started practising at Roland Garros this week. Anhelina Kalinina, who reached the final in Rome earlier this month, could stand in Gauff's way in the third round. French hopes will rest on the shoulders of fifth seed Caroline Garcia, who is on a quarter-final collision course with second seed Aryna Sabalenka. Belarusian Sabalenka, the Australian Open champion, beat Swiatek in the final of the Madrid Open last month. Rome champion Elena Rybakina of Kazakhstan is expected to have a smooth run to the last eight, where she could face Tunisian seventh seed Ons Jabeur.

Tennis: Tough road ahead for Carlos Alcaraz, defending champion Iga Swiatek for French Open title

The French Open is back. Defending Champion Iga Swiatek is the favourite for the women's singles title, but there are question marks over her fitness. Reigning Australian Open Champions Aryna Sabalenka and Wimbledon Champion Elene Rybakina have had fine seasons and are seen as Swiatek's biggest challengers. Who will win the title in Paris?

Who will be the women's singles champion at the French Open?

Women’s world number one Iga Swiatek is a doubt for the upcoming French Open 2023 after she withdrew from the quarterfinals of the Italian Open on Wednesday, May 17. Swiatek who is the defending champion at the Roland-Garros is facing a thigh issue and could see herself on the sidelines with the tournament set to kick off in less than two weeks.

<h2>What happened on Wednesday?</h2>

While playing against defending Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina on Wednesday Swiatek had to pull out with the recurrence of a thigh issue. The scores were poised at 2-2 when she decided to pull out of the contest and hand Rybakina a walkover to the semifinals.

"We're checking it (the injury)," tweeted the Polish star, who also won the French Open in 2020.

"During the second set, I got a thigh injury. The diagnostic is in progress."

"More info in the following days. Will keep you updated,” the statement further read.

The number one seed is one of the favourites to clinch the title in the French capital. However, her withdrawal could come as a huge setback for the organisers with men’s defending champion Rafael Nadal also a doubt for the tournament. Nadal is expected to open up on his possible inclusion in the tournament on Thursday, but could eventually miss out if he is not fit.

Some of the other big names missing from the tournament include Nick Kyrgios and Emma Raducanu. Kyrgios was runner-up at Wimbledon in 2022, losing to Novak Djokovic while Raducanu won the 2021 US Open women’s title.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-faf-du-plessis-praises-passionate-kohli-says-playing-with-him-is-better-than-playing-against-him-593606">IPL 2023: Faf du Plessis praises passionate Kohli, says playing with him is better than being in opposite team</a>

<h2>Swiatek’s Stellar 2022</h2>

Swiatek’s absence&nbsp;on the other hand will be a big blow to her having had a stellar 2022 where she won the two Grand Slam titles. She was at her fluent best in the French Open while she also captured the US Open. She was unlucky to have not pocketed the Wimbledon title.

The Wimbledon Championships, starting July 3 could be the next early date possible for Swiatek to return to the tennis circuit if she fails to make the Roland-Garros in time. Not since 2007 has the French Open women’s title been defended and will have to wait another year if Swiatek’s withdrawal is confirmed. Belgium’s Justine Henin won three consecutive Roland-Garros titles from 2005 to 2007 and was the last woman to defend the French Open crown. 
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Women’s world number one Iga Swiatek is a doubt for the upcoming French Open 2023 after she withdrew from the quarterfinals of the Italian Open on Wednesday, May 17.

Women’s world number one Iga Swiatek is a doubt for the upcoming French Open 2023 after she withdrew from the quarterfinals of the Italian Open on Wednesday, May 17. Swiatek who is the defending champion at the Roland-Garros is facing a thigh issue and could see herself on the sidelines with the tournament set to kick off in less than two weeks. What happened on Wednesday? While playing against defending Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina on Wednesday Swiatek had to pull out with the recurrence of a thigh issue. The scores were poised at 2-2 when she decided to pull out of the contest and hand Rybakina a walkover to the semifinals. "We're checking it (the injury)," tweeted the Polish star, who also won the French Open in 2020. "During the second set, I got a thigh injury. The diagnostic is in progress." "More info in the following days. Will keep you updated,” the statement further read. The number one seed is one of the favourites to clinch the title in the French capital. However, her withdrawal could come as a huge setback for the organisers with men’s defending champion Rafael Nadal also a doubt for the tournament. Nadal is expected to open up on his possible inclusion in the tournament on Thursday, but could eventually miss out if he is not fit. Some of the other big names missing from the tournament include Nick Kyrgios and Emma Raducanu. Kyrgios was runner-up at Wimbledon in 2022, losing to Novak Djokovic while Raducanu won the 2021 US Open women’s title. ALSO READ | IPL 2023: Faf du Plessis praises passionate Kohli, says playing with him is better than being in opposite team Swiatek’s Stellar 2022 Swiatek’s absence on the other hand will be a big blow to her having had a stellar 2022 where she won the two Grand Slam titles. She was at her fluent best in the French Open while she also captured the US Open. She was unlucky to have not pocketed the Wimbledon title. The Wimbledon Championships, starting July 3 could be the next early date possible for Swiatek to return to the tennis circuit if she fails to make the Roland-Garros in time. Not since 2007 has the French Open women’s title been defended and will have to wait another year if Swiatek’s withdrawal is confirmed. Belgium’s Justine Henin won three consecutive Roland-Garros titles from 2005 to 2007 and was the last woman to defend the French Open crown. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

French Open: Iga Swiatek doubtful for defending her title after pulling out of Italian Open quarterfinal

Elena Rybakina has comfortably won both her matches against Iga Swiatek this year but expects a tougher test against the world number one when the pair face off on clay at the Italian Open later on Wednesday. Rybakina downed Swiatek in straight sets at the Australian Open in January and ended her title defence at Indian Wells with both matches played on hardcourts, where the Wimbledon champion used her booming serve and groundstrokes to good effect.

But the Kazakh said French Open champion Swiatek would be a completely different prospect in the Rome quarter-final. "I think clay changes it a lot," Rybakina said. "It's more rallies, it's more physical, she has more time, I have more time. It's much different than the hardcourts for sure. "I'm not expecting much. It's a practice. I'm taking it this way. Hopefully, it'll help me perform at the French Open."

Rybakina said she was not dwelling too much on the pair's budding rivalry. "But of course, I see some comments," Rybakina said. "It's good if fans think that way and that it's entertaining to see us play against each other."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/italian-open-novak-djokovic-sees-off-cameron-norrie-in-straight-sets-to-reach-quarter-finals-592997">Italian Open: Novak Djokovic sees off Cameron Norrie in straight sets to reach quarter-finals</a>

Poland's Swiatek, who won her first match with Rybakina in Ostrava two years ago, said she would treat their latest meeting like any other match. "For now I don't have any mindset," defending Rome champion Swiatek said. "It's neutral. Coming back to my previous matches against Elena, it doesn't make sense. It was on hardcourts. "I know how I felt. This time I don't have any expectations. I'm just going to come out and play the best game possible."

Elena Rybakina has comfortably won both her matches against Iga Swiatek this year but expects a tougher test against the world number one when the pair face off on clay at the Italian Open later on Wednesday.

Elena Rybakina has comfortably won both her matches against Iga Swiatek this year but expects a tougher test against the world number one when the pair face off on clay at the Italian Open later on Wednesday. Rybakina downed Swiatek in straight sets at the Australian Open in January and ended her title defence at Indian Wells with both matches played on hardcourts, where the Wimbledon champion used her booming serve and groundstrokes to good effect. But the Kazakh said French Open champion Swiatek would be a completely different prospect in the Rome quarter-final. "I think clay changes it a lot," Rybakina said. "It's more rallies, it's more physical, she has more time, I have more time. It's much different than the hardcourts for sure. "I'm not expecting much. It's a practice. I'm taking it this way. Hopefully, it'll help me perform at the French Open." Rybakina said she was not dwelling too much on the pair's budding rivalry. "But of course, I see some comments," Rybakina said. "It's good if fans think that way and that it's entertaining to see us play against each other." Also Read: Italian Open: Novak Djokovic sees off Cameron Norrie in straight sets to reach quarter-finals Poland's Swiatek, who won her first match with Rybakina in Ostrava two years ago, said she would treat their latest meeting like any other match. "For now I don't have any mindset," defending Rome champion Swiatek said. "It's neutral. Coming back to my previous matches against Elena, it doesn't make sense. It was on hardcourts. "I know how I felt. This time I don't have any expectations. I'm just going to come out and play the best game possible."

Tennis: Elena Rybakina, Iga Swiatek to renew rivalry in Italian Open quarter-finals

World No.1 Iga Swiatek started her title defence at the Italian Open with a 6-0, 6-0 win over Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova in the second round on Friday.

Swiatek will face either Bernarda Pera or Lesia Tsurenko in the third round. A two-time defending champion in Rome, Swiatek extended her win streak in the Eternal City to 12 consecutive matches. Swiatek won in the first game against Pavlyuchenkova, despite the windy circumstances at the Foro Italico. Swiatek used her kick-serve effectively to keep Pavlyuchenkova at bay during her service games.

Pavlyuchenkova, a Roland Garros finalist in 2021, played a strategically sound match but struggled to land her finishing shots consistently. Her only break point came at 4-0 in the opening set. Pavlyuchenkova did well to create room for a forehand down the line, but she missed. Swiatek went on to win the game.

Pavlyuchenkova battled back from 5-0 down to save six set opportunities from 0-40 on her serve, but the World No.1's tenacious return game finally broke through to seal her tour-leading eighth 6-0 set of the season.

Swiatek's ruthless march continued in the second set, as she ran the table to close out the win after 67 minutes.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-wouldve-selected-yashasvi-jaiswal-as-rahuls-replacement-michael-vaughans-big-remark-591661">WTC Final: ‘Would’ve selected Yashasvi Jaiswal as Rahul’s replacement’ - Michael Vaughan's big remark</a>

"When I'm playing these kind of matches, I'm just trying to be focused. It's actually pretty hard to be focused when you are really thinking [about the score]. So I'm trying to remember what got me this nice score, what I should do to continue playing that well. I just want to be consistent in it," WTA.com quoted Swiatek as saying.

"In my opinion, the score doesn't really matter and it doesn't have any influence on my feeling on the court. I'm just trying to play my best tennis no matter what the score is," she added.

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World No.1 Iga Swiatek started her title defence at the Italian Open with a 6-0, 6-0 win over Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova in the second round on Friday. Swiatek will face either Bernarda Pera or Lesia Tsurenko in the third round.

World No.1 Iga Swiatek started her title defence at the Italian Open with a 6-0, 6-0 win over Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova in the second round on Friday. Swiatek will face either Bernarda Pera or Lesia Tsurenko in the third round. A two-time defending champion in Rome, Swiatek extended her win streak in the Eternal City to 12 consecutive matches. Swiatek won in the first game against Pavlyuchenkova, despite the windy circumstances at the Foro Italico. Swiatek used her kick-serve effectively to keep Pavlyuchenkova at bay during her service games. Pavlyuchenkova, a Roland Garros finalist in 2021, played a strategically sound match but struggled to land her finishing shots consistently. Her only break point came at 4-0 in the opening set. Pavlyuchenkova did well to create room for a forehand down the line, but she missed. Swiatek went on to win the game. Pavlyuchenkova battled back from 5-0 down to save six set opportunities from 0-40 on her serve, but the World No.1's tenacious return game finally broke through to seal her tour-leading eighth 6-0 set of the season. Swiatek's ruthless march continued in the second set, as she ran the table to close out the win after 67 minutes. ALSO READ | WTC Final: ‘Would’ve selected Yashasvi Jaiswal as Rahul’s replacement’ - Michael Vaughan's big remark "When I'm playing these kind of matches, I'm just trying to be focused. It's actually pretty hard to be focused when you are really thinking [about the score]. So I'm trying to remember what got me this nice score, what I should do to continue playing that well. I just want to be consistent in it," WTA.com quoted Swiatek as saying. "In my opinion, the score doesn't really matter and it doesn't have any influence on my feeling on the court. I'm just trying to play my best tennis no matter what the score is," she added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Italian Open: Iga Swiatek thrashes Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova to reach third round

World number two Aryna Sabalenka played a superb attacking game to beat Iga Swiatek in the Madrid Open final on Saturday for her first win on clay against her top-ranked rival.

The Belarusian prevailed 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 to capture the title in the Spanish capital for the second time.

Until Saturday, the 25-year-old had lost all of her three previous meetings with the Pole on clay without even winning a set.

"It's something unbelievable. I'm really happy that I'm able to fight against her and I'm able to get this win so it's not like so super boring for people to watch our matches," said the champion.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/javier-castellano-rides-mage-to-win-149th-kentucky-derby-589861">Javier Castellano rides Mage to win 149th Kentucky Derby</a>

"I really enjoy playing on clay, because I have extra time. It's not super fast, so I can go for my powerful shots. There are longer rallies. It's like not just bomb, bomb."

The big-hitting Belarusian gained revenge for defeat by her Polish rival in the Stuttgart final a fortnight ago with a thrilling triumph to end Swiatek's nine-match winning streak ahead of her French Open defence.&nbsp;

Two-time Roland Garros winner Swiatek fought her way back into the match after an explosive start by Sabalenka, but the second seed came back strongly in the third set to win the first WTA 1000 final featuring the top two ranked players since 2014.

Sabalenka earned her 13th career title, and only her second on clay in two hours and 25 minutes, clinching victory on her fourth championship point with a forehand cross-court winner.

"I'm just super happy with this win, especially against Iga on the clay, it's always tough matches against her," added Sabalenka.

The Australian Open champion started with great intensity in her serve and forehand, given some extra zip because of the altitude -- Madrid is the second highest European capital city.

Sabalenka earned two break points but sought a winner too keenly to convert and Swiatek held for 3-3.&nbsp;

She did the same again on Swiatek's next service but this time earned the break for a 5-3 lead when the top seed sent a backhand long.

The 2021 Madrid victor consolidated to clinch the first set, her first ever against Swiatek on the dirt, having lost in straight sets in their three previous clay clashes.

<h2>'No fun at 1am'</h2>

Swiatek, who failed to earn a single break point in the opening set to Sabalenka's four, converted her first for a 2-0 lead in the second set as her opponent pushed a return into the net.

The world number one consolidated it to love, showing a flash of her usual prowess on clay.

However at 3-1 down, the relentless Sabalenka earned four break points, getting back on serve with a beefy backhand winner down the line.

The Belarusian consolidated and again put Swiatek under the cosh on her serve, but the Pole dug deep and saved two break points to hold.

Swiatek showed her fine defensive game as she broke again for 5-3 and served it out to force the decisive third set.

Sabalenka broke for a 2-0 advantage as Swiatek went a fraction long, and saved a break point with a vicious forehand and another after that to consolidate.

Swiatek broke back but Sabalenka did it again for a 5-3 lead and, after missing three championship points as the 21-year-old battled until the end, eventually triumphed.

"Sometimes it's tougher; sometimes it's easier. That's why we have variety in tennis, and that's why sometimes players are playing better on some surfaces and some on different," said Swiatek.

The world number one aimed a jab at the tournament organisers for some of the late nights over the past week, with matches regularly finishing in the early hours.

"It's not fun to play at 1am though," she added. "I'm happy anyway I was able to get past this experience and survive and be in the final."

In the men's final on Sunday home favourite and world number two Carlos Alcaraz is aiming to defend his title against German lucky loser Jan-Lennard Struff.

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World number two Aryna Sabalenka played a superb attacking game to beat Iga Swiatek in the Madrid Open final on Saturday for her first win on clay against her top-ranked rival.

World number two Aryna Sabalenka played a superb attacking game to beat Iga Swiatek in the Madrid Open final on Saturday for her first win on clay against her top-ranked rival. The Belarusian prevailed 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 to capture the title in the Spanish capital for the second time. Until Saturday, the 25-year-old had lost all of her three previous meetings with the Pole on clay without even winning a set. "It's something unbelievable. I'm really happy that I'm able to fight against her and I'm able to get this win so it's not like so super boring for people to watch our matches," said the champion. Also Read: Javier Castellano rides Mage to win 149th Kentucky Derby "I really enjoy playing on clay, because I have extra time. It's not super fast, so I can go for my powerful shots. There are longer rallies. It's like not just bomb, bomb." The big-hitting Belarusian gained revenge for defeat by her Polish rival in the Stuttgart final a fortnight ago with a thrilling triumph to end Swiatek's nine-match winning streak ahead of her French Open defence. Two-time Roland Garros winner Swiatek fought her way back into the match after an explosive start by Sabalenka, but the second seed came back strongly in the third set to win the first WTA 1000 final featuring the top two ranked players since 2014. Sabalenka earned her 13th career title, and only her second on clay in two hours and 25 minutes, clinching victory on her fourth championship point with a forehand cross-court winner. "I'm just super happy with this win, especially against Iga on the clay, it's always tough matches against her," added Sabalenka. The Australian Open champion started with great intensity in her serve and forehand, given some extra zip because of the altitude -- Madrid is the second highest European capital city. Sabalenka earned two break points but sought a winner too keenly to convert and Swiatek held for 3-3. She did the same again on Swiatek's next service but this time earned the break for a 5-3 lead when the top seed sent a backhand long. The 2021 Madrid victor consolidated to clinch the first set, her first ever against Swiatek on the dirt, having lost in straight sets in their three previous clay clashes. 'No fun at 1am' Swiatek, who failed to earn a single break point in the opening set to Sabalenka's four, converted her first for a 2-0 lead in the second set as her opponent pushed a return into the net. The world number one consolidated it to love, showing a flash of her usual prowess on clay. However at 3-1 down, the relentless Sabalenka earned four break points, getting back on serve with a beefy backhand winner down the line. The Belarusian consolidated and again put Swiatek under the cosh on her serve, but the Pole dug deep and saved two break points to hold. Swiatek showed her fine defensive game as she broke again for 5-3 and served it out to force the decisive third set. Sabalenka broke for a 2-0 advantage as Swiatek went a fraction long, and saved a break point with a vicious forehand and another after that to consolidate. Swiatek broke back but Sabalenka did it again for a 5-3 lead and, after missing three championship points as the 21-year-old battled until the end, eventually triumphed. "Sometimes it's tougher; sometimes it's easier. That's why we have variety in tennis, and that's why sometimes players are playing better on some surfaces and some on different," said Swiatek. The world number one aimed a jab at the tournament organisers for some of the late nights over the past week, with matches regularly finishing in the early hours. "It's not fun to play at 1am though," she added. "I'm happy anyway I was able to get past this experience and survive and be in the final." In the men's final on Sunday home favourite and world number two Carlos Alcaraz is aiming to defend his title against German lucky loser Jan-Lennard Struff. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tennis: Aryna Sabalenka beats Iga Swiatek to win Madrid Open title

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