Defending <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Australian+Open" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Australian Open</a> champion <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Jannik+Sinner" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Jannik Sinner</a> cruised into the third round of the ongoing tournament after early struggles against Tristan Schoolkate of Australia on Thursday (Jan 16). The Italian, who was in the headlines for the wrong reasons in the build up to the tournament, registered a 4-6, 6-4, 6-1, 6-3 win as he looks to keep his hunt for glory. Sinner will now face Marcos Giron in the third round of the Australian Open on Saturday.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Sinner into next round</h2>
Having tested positive for the dope test, Sinner was under pressure heading into the Australian Open 2025. On Thursday, he showed nerves in the early parts of the match as he dropped the opening set 4-6. However, there was no messing around for the Italian, as he completed his comeback and won the next three sets to book his place in the next round.
Sinner made poor unforced errors during the opening set, which had him on the back foot. However, 77 per cent of first serves saw a swift comeback into the contest as the Italian won the match.
Earlier, former Wimbledon women&rsquo;s singles champion Elena Rybakina reached the third round of the Australian Open 2025 as she continued her hunt for the title Down Under. Runner-up in 2023, Rybakina is seeded sixth and got the better of Iva Jovic of the United States 6-0, 6-3. The win sees her take another step towards the Australian Open title, having shown her class on the court. The day also saw former French Open champion Iga Swiatek book her place in the next round after a dominating win.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2025-champions-trophy-india-squad-announcement-jasprit-bumrah-injury-news-pacer-advised-bed-rest-8625081" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">2025 Champions Trophy: Setback for India as pacer Jasprit Bumrah advised 'bed rest'</a>
Swiatek raced past world number 49 Rebecca Sramkova 6-0, 6-2 on Rod Laver Arena while Britain's Raducanu was entering uncharted waters on the nearby Kia Arena. Raducanu had reached the second round in Melbourne on three previous occasions but never advanced further. She was forced to battle in a topsy-turvy match against her good friend Amanda Anisimova, both players exchanging multiple breaks before she came through 6-3, 7-5.

Sports, Tennis: Sinner was in the headlines for the wrong reasons in the build up to the tournament registered a 4-6, 6-4, 6-1, 6-3 win as he looks to keep his hunt for glory.

Defending Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner cruised into the third round of the ongoing tournament after early struggles against Tristan Schoolkate of Australia on Thursday (Jan 16). The Italian, who was in the headlines for the wrong reasons in the build up to the tournament, registered a 4-6, 6-4, 6-1, 6-3 win as he looks to keep his hunt for glory. Sinner will now face Marcos Giron in the third round of the Australian Open on Saturday. Sinner into next round Having tested positive for the dope test, Sinner was under pressure heading into the Australian Open 2025. On Thursday, he showed nerves in the early parts of the match as he dropped the opening set 4-6. However, there was no messing around for the Italian, as he completed his comeback and won the next three sets to book his place in the next round. Sinner made poor unforced errors during the opening set, which had him on the back foot. However, 77 per cent of first serves saw a swift comeback into the contest as the Italian won the match. Earlier, former Wimbledon women’s singles champion Elena Rybakina reached the third round of the Australian Open 2025 as she continued her hunt for the title Down Under. Runner-up in 2023, Rybakina is seeded sixth and got the better of Iva Jovic of the United States 6-0, 6-3. The win sees her take another step towards the Australian Open title, having shown her class on the court. The day also saw former French Open champion Iga Swiatek book her place in the next round after a dominating win. ALSO READ | 2025 Champions Trophy: Setback for India as pacer Jasprit Bumrah advised 'bed rest' Swiatek raced past world number 49 Rebecca Sramkova 6-0, 6-2 on Rod Laver Arena while Britain's Raducanu was entering uncharted waters on the nearby Kia Arena. Raducanu had reached the second round in Melbourne on three previous occasions but never advanced further. She was forced to battle in a topsy-turvy match against her good friend Amanda Anisimova, both players exchanging multiple breaks before she came through 6-3, 7-5.

Australian Open 2025: Jannik Sinner books third round berth after early struggles against Tristan Schoolkate

Carlos Alcaraz said Saturday his burgeoning rivalry with Jannik Sinner brought out the best in him, with the Spanish star driven by winning more Grand Slam titles and toppling the Italian as world number one. The 21-year-old clinched both Roland-Garros and Wimbledon last year and is preparing to take Melbourne Park by storm and lift the Australian Open to complete a career Grand Slam of all four majors.<o:p></o:p>
With the retirements of Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic in his twilight years, world number three Alcaraz's rivalry with 23-year-old Sinner has taken over at the summit of the game.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/usa-swimmer-gary-hall-olympics-gold-medals-burned-in-la-wildfire-8609532" rel="dofollow">LA wildfires: Ex-Olympian Gary Hall's gold medals lost in inferno</a>
"When I'm facing him, I just know that I have to play my best if I want to win. That's it. Probably if I have a bad day against Jannik, it's 99 percent that you're going to lose," said the Spaniard. "That's what is in my mind every time that I'm going to play against him. <o:p></o:p>
"The good thing for me is when I'm seeing him winning titles, when I'm seeing him in the top of the ranking, it forces me to practise even harder every day," he added. "In the practice, I'm just thinking the things that I have to improve to play against him. <o:p></o:p>
"That I think is great for me, having him, have such a great rivalry so far, just to give the best of me every day."<o:p></o:p>
Despite Alcaraz and Sinner becoming the Grand Slam kings by sharing the four major titles last year, the Italian raced away as world number one due to his greater consistency through the season.<o:p></o:p>
Alcaraz has tweaked his serve, and has a lighter racquet, in a bid to up his game this year, knowing he needs to play better for longer.<o:p></o:p>
"After the US Open for me is kind of difficult to stay at a high level. I mean, is kind of when I'm tired, I've played a lot of tournaments, a lot of time outside home," he said. "So, for me is difficult, that part of the year. Last year I did much better than 2023. So hopefully this year is going to be better."<o:p></o:p>
While ousting Sinner as top dog remains a key goal, winning more Slams is his focus.<o:p></o:p>
"For me the goal is try to win Grand Slams, Masters 1000s. That's for me the most important tournaments of the world," he said. "Obviously the ranking is up there in the goals, as well, trying to get as close as I can to Jannik or try to pass (world number two Alexander) Zverev as well. <o:p></o:p>
"But mainly for me it is Grand Slams, try to win as many Grand Slams as I can. That's my main goal."
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports, Tennis: With the retirements of Federer and Nadal, and Djokovic in his twilight years, Alcaraz's rivalry with 23-year-old Sinner has taken over at the summit of the game.

Carlos Alcaraz said Saturday his burgeoning rivalry with Jannik Sinner brought out the best in him, with the Spanish star driven by winning more Grand Slam titles and toppling the Italian as world number one. The 21-year-old clinched both Roland-Garros and Wimbledon last year and is preparing to take Melbourne Park by storm and lift the Australian Open to complete a career Grand Slam of all four majors. With the retirements of Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic in his twilight years, world number three Alcaraz's rivalry with 23-year-old Sinner has taken over at the summit of the game. Also read | LA wildfires: Ex-Olympian Gary Hall's gold medals lost in inferno "When I'm facing him, I just know that I have to play my best if I want to win. That's it. Probably if I have a bad day against Jannik, it's 99 percent that you're going to lose," said the Spaniard. "That's what is in my mind every time that I'm going to play against him. "The good thing for me is when I'm seeing him winning titles, when I'm seeing him in the top of the ranking, it forces me to practise even harder every day," he added. "In the practice, I'm just thinking the things that I have to improve to play against him. "That I think is great for me, having him, have such a great rivalry so far, just to give the best of me every day." Despite Alcaraz and Sinner becoming the Grand Slam kings by sharing the four major titles last year, the Italian raced away as world number one due to his greater consistency through the season. Alcaraz has tweaked his serve, and has a lighter racquet, in a bid to up his game this year, knowing he needs to play better for longer. "After the US Open for me is kind of difficult to stay at a high level. I mean, is kind of when I'm tired, I've played a lot of tournaments, a lot of time outside home," he said. "So, for me is difficult, that part of the year. Last year I did much better than 2023. So hopefully this year is going to be better." While ousting Sinner as top dog remains a key goal, winning more Slams is his focus. "For me the goal is try to win Grand Slams, Masters 1000s. That's for me the most important tournaments of the world," he said. "Obviously the ranking is up there in the goals, as well, trying to get as close as I can to Jannik or try to pass (world number two Alexander) Zverev as well. "But mainly for me it is Grand Slams, try to win as many Grand Slams as I can. That's my main goal." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Carlos Alcaraz thrives on Sinner rivalry as Australian Open 2025 looms

Defending <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Australian+Open" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Australian Open</a> champion <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Jannik+Sinner" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Jannik Sinner</a> is in limbo over a potential doping ban as the latest edition kickstarts on Monday (Jan 13). Sinner, initially cleared of charges relating to doping, could yet face a ban after the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) appealed the ruling at the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS). If the ruling goes against Sinner, he could be banned for at least two years, meaning he could miss up to eight Grand Slam tournaments.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Sinner in limbo</h2>
"I know exactly as much as you guys know. We're in a stage where we don't know many, many things," Sinner said. "Yeah, you think about this, of course. I would lie if I said I forget. It's been with me for quite a long time. But it is what it is. I'm here trying to prepare for the Grand Slam. Let's see how it goes."
The Italian won the Australian Open and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=US+Open" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">US Open</a> in 2024 but was in the headlines for all the wrong reasons. In March, Sinner tested positive for the steroid clostebol, a banned substance used to build muscle. However, he clarified that one of his team members used the substances on his own hand before treating him, thereby passing the substance through hand-to-hand contact. The team members were later fired by Sinner which saw him get into trouble.
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravichandran-ashwin-in-headlines-after-retirement-says-hindi-not-our-national-language-8606696" aria-label="Ravichandran Ashwin in headlines after retirement, says 'Hindi not our national language...'">Ravichandran Ashwin in headlines after retirement, says 'Hindi not our national language...'</a>
Sinner, currently World No.1, will face Nicolas Jarry in the first round of the Australian Open 2025 as he targets another successful start to the season. In 2025, he added the US Open to his already impressive Australian Open triumph. He is one of only eight players to beat Novak Djokovic at Melbourne Park, having achieved the feat in 2024.
As things stand, he is clear to play in the Australian Open with a tough projected path to the championship.<o:p></o:p>

Sports, Tennis: Jannik Sinner, initially cleared of charges relating to doping could yet face a ban after the WADA appealed the ruling at the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS).

Defending Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner is in limbo over a potential doping ban as the latest edition kickstarts on Monday (Jan 13). Sinner, initially cleared of charges relating to doping, could yet face a ban after the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) appealed the ruling at the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS). If the ruling goes against Sinner, he could be banned for at least two years, meaning he could miss up to eight Grand Slam tournaments. Sinner in limbo "I know exactly as much as you guys know. We're in a stage where we don't know many, many things," Sinner said. "Yeah, you think about this, of course. I would lie if I said I forget. It's been with me for quite a long time. But it is what it is. I'm here trying to prepare for the Grand Slam. Let's see how it goes." The Italian won the Australian Open and the US Open in 2024 but was in the headlines for all the wrong reasons. In March, Sinner tested positive for the steroid clostebol, a banned substance used to build muscle. However, he clarified that one of his team members used the substances on his own hand before treating him, thereby passing the substance through hand-to-hand contact. The team members were later fired by Sinner which saw him get into trouble. ALSO READ | Ravichandran Ashwin in headlines after retirement, says 'Hindi not our national language...' Sinner, currently World No.1, will face Nicolas Jarry in the first round of the Australian Open 2025 as he targets another successful start to the season. In 2025, he added the US Open to his already impressive Australian Open triumph. He is one of only eight players to beat Novak Djokovic at Melbourne Park, having achieved the feat in 2024. As things stand, he is clear to play in the Australian Open with a tough projected path to the championship.

Australian Open 2025: Jannik Sinner in limbo over doping ban, says 'I know as much as you guys know'

Novak Djokovic on Sunday called for more transparency around doping suspensions in tennis, saying high-ranked players appeared to be treated differently to others. The 24-time Grand Slam champion agreed with Australian Nick Kyrgios, who on Saturday said integrity in the sport was "awful".<o:p></o:p>
They were speaking in the wake of doping violations by world number ones Italian Jannik Sinner and Poland's Iga Swiatek during 2024.<o:p></o:p>
The 37-year-old Djokovic, who will play doubles with Kyrgios at the Brisbane International this week, said there needed to be far greater transparency from the sport's governing bodies around doping violations. And he said that it appeared that top players such as Sinner and Swiatek were being treated differently from those further down the rankings.<o:p></o:p>
"I think Nick has some fair points when it comes to transparency and inconsistency with protocols and case-to-case comparables," the Serbian said. "We have some players who have been waiting for over a year for their case to be resolved, so the issue is the inconsistency and the transparency."<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-integrity-is-awful-nick-kyrgios-on-punishment-for-jannik-sinners-failed-dope-test-8573583" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Tennis&rsquo; integrity is awful,&rsquo; Kyrgios on punishment for Sinner&rsquo;s failed dope test</a> 
While Djokovic said he believed Sinner when he said he tested positive to the steroid clostebol due to contamination from his physiotherapist, he asserted that the players had been "kept in the dark" throughout the whole process.<o:p></o:p>
"I've been really frustrated, as have most of the other players, that we've been kept in the dark for five months," Djokovic said. "He (Sinner) received the news (of the positive tests) in April and the announcement was not until August, just before the US Open.<o:p></o:p>
"The ATP has not really talked in depth about why they kept that case away from the public.<o:p></o:p>
"Then we had (Simona) Halep's case and Swiatek's case on the WTA Tour and it's not a good look for our sport."<o:p></o:p>
<h2>'It's awful'<o:p></o:p></h2>
Sinner twice tested positive for clostebol in March.<o:p></o:p>
However, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) accepted his argument that the steroid entered his system due to contamination and opted not to suspend him.<o:p></o:p>
The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) subsequently appealed the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, with a verdict pending.<o:p></o:p>
Swiatek tested positive for the heart medication trimetazidine (TMZ) in an out-of-competition sample in August when she was ranked number one.<o:p></o:p>
As with Sinner, the ITIA accepted that Swiatek's violation was not intentional and she received only a one-month ban. <o:p></o:p>
In contrast, Halep was handed a four-year ban by the ITIA in 2022 after testing positive for roxadustat.<o:p></o:p>
She argued it was the result of a tainted supplement and successfully appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, which reduced her suspension to nine months and she returned to the court in March.<o:p></o:p>
"I'm just questioning the way the system works," said Djokovic. "Why are certain players not treated the same as other players -- maybe there's some ranking reasons behind it, or maybe others have more financial backing behind them or stronger legal teams."<o:p></o:p>
Kyrgios has been scathing about the ITIA decision involving Sinner.<o:p></o:p>
"Tennis integrity right now, and everyone knows it, but no one wants to speak about it -- it's awful," the Australian said on Saturday, adding that said the sport's image was being tarnished.<o:p></o:p>
"I just think that it's been handled horrifically in our sport," said Kyrgios.<o:p></o:p>
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic agreed with Australian Nick Kyrgios, who on Saturday said integrity in the sport was "awful". 

Novak Djokovic on Sunday called for more transparency around doping suspensions in tennis, saying high-ranked players appeared to be treated differently to others. The 24-time Grand Slam champion agreed with Australian Nick Kyrgios, who on Saturday said integrity in the sport was "awful". They were speaking in the wake of doping violations by world number ones Italian Jannik Sinner and Poland's Iga Swiatek during 2024. The 37-year-old Djokovic, who will play doubles with Kyrgios at the Brisbane International this week, said there needed to be far greater transparency from the sport's governing bodies around doping violations. And he said that it appeared that top players such as Sinner and Swiatek were being treated differently from those further down the rankings. "I think Nick has some fair points when it comes to transparency and inconsistency with protocols and case-to-case comparables," the Serbian said. "We have some players who have been waiting for over a year for their case to be resolved, so the issue is the inconsistency and the transparency." Also read | ‘Tennis’ integrity is awful,’ Kyrgios on punishment for Sinner’s failed dope test While Djokovic said he believed Sinner when he said he tested positive to the steroid clostebol due to contamination from his physiotherapist, he asserted that the players had been "kept in the dark" throughout the whole process. "I've been really frustrated, as have most of the other players, that we've been kept in the dark for five months," Djokovic said. "He (Sinner) received the news (of the positive tests) in April and the announcement was not until August, just before the US Open. "The ATP has not really talked in depth about why they kept that case away from the public. "Then we had (Simona) Halep's case and Swiatek's case on the WTA Tour and it's not a good look for our sport." 'It's awful' Sinner twice tested positive for clostebol in March. However, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) accepted his argument that the steroid entered his system due to contamination and opted not to suspend him. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) subsequently appealed the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, with a verdict pending. Swiatek tested positive for the heart medication trimetazidine (TMZ) in an out-of-competition sample in August when she was ranked number one. As with Sinner, the ITIA accepted that Swiatek's violation was not intentional and she received only a one-month ban. In contrast, Halep was handed a four-year ban by the ITIA in 2022 after testing positive for roxadustat. She argued it was the result of a tainted supplement and successfully appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, which reduced her suspension to nine months and she returned to the court in March. "I'm just questioning the way the system works," said Djokovic. "Why are certain players not treated the same as other players -- maybe there's some ranking reasons behind it, or maybe others have more financial backing behind them or stronger legal teams." Kyrgios has been scathing about the ITIA decision involving Sinner. "Tennis integrity right now, and everyone knows it, but no one wants to speak about it -- it's awful," the Australian said on Saturday, adding that said the sport's image was being tarnished. "I just think that it's been handled horrifically in our sport," said Kyrgios. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Tennis: Djokovic calls for more transparency around doping suspensions

Nick Kyrgios lashed out on Saturday at what he believes is the lenient treatment of world tennis number one Italian Jannik Sinner for a failed drug test and said integrity in the sport was "awful". <o:p></o:p>Sinner twice tested positive for the banned steroid clostebol in March.<o:p></o:p>
However, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) accepted his argument that the steroid entered his system due to contamination from his physiotherapist and opted not to suspend him.<o:p></o:p>
The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) subsequently appealed the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, with a verdict pending.<o:p></o:p>
Kyrgios has been scathing about the ITIA decision in the past and didn't hold back in a press conference ahead of his return to the game at the Brisbane International after an 18-month injury lay-off.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-champions-boston-celtics-snap-two-game-losing-streak-to-beat-indiana-pacers-8572332" rel="dofollow">NBA: Champions Celtics snap two-game losing streak with win over Pacers</a>
"Tennis integrity right now, and everyone knows it, but no one wants to speak about it -- it's awful," said the Australian. "It's actually awful and it's not okay. I know that people don't like it when I just speak out about things, be honest about things.<o:p></o:p>
"For a kid that grew up playing tennis, I enjoyed the competition, I enjoyed playing. <o:p></o:p>
"I can get emotional, I can throw a racquet, but that's nothing compared to cheating and taking performance-enhancing drugs."<o:p></o:p>
<h2>'It's disgusting'<o:p></o:p></h2>
Asked whether he was accusing Sinner of cheating, Kyrgios told journalists to look at the facts.<o:p></o:p>
"He did fail two doping tests at separate times, as well," Kyrgios said. "It wasn't one after the other&nbsp; -- they were a different time frame, so I mean, if you think that that's the way that it got in his system, if that's how you think it's happened, then.<o:p></o:p>
"But, I mean, if he didn't do anything wrong, then why did they take his prize money and points away? Obviously they found something wrong with it."<o:p></o:p>
With former women's world number one Iga Swiatek also having been suspended for a doping violation in 2024, Kyrgios said the sport's image was being tarnished.<o:p></o:p>
"I just think that it's been handled horrifically in our sport," he said. <o:p></o:p>
The ITIA accepted that Swiatek's violation was not intentional and she received only a one-month ban. <o:p></o:p>
"Two world number ones both getting done for doping is disgusting for our sport. It's a horrible look," said Kyrgios, who has been out of the sport since suffering knee and wrist injuries at the 2022 US Open.<o:p></o:p>
Kyrgios has had wrist reconstruction and said while it was a success, he was unsure how the wrist would cope with tournament play.<o:p></o:p>
"I'm just not going to take anything for granted," he said. "I'm going to go out there and play. It's literally going to be a day-by-day symptomatic injury moving forward.<o:p></o:p>
"If I play a long match, jam it the right way, who knows how it's going to pull up the next day. That's the type of injury it is."<o:p></o:p>
Kyrgios's comeback begins against rising French star Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard.
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Kyrgios has been scathing about the ITIA decision in the past and didn't hold back in a presser ahead of his return at the Brisbane International after an 18-month injury lay-off.

Nick Kyrgios lashed out on Saturday at what he believes is the lenient treatment of world tennis number one Italian Jannik Sinner for a failed drug test and said integrity in the sport was "awful". Sinner twice tested positive for the banned steroid clostebol in March. However, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) accepted his argument that the steroid entered his system due to contamination from his physiotherapist and opted not to suspend him. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) subsequently appealed the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, with a verdict pending. Kyrgios has been scathing about the ITIA decision in the past and didn't hold back in a press conference ahead of his return to the game at the Brisbane International after an 18-month injury lay-off. Also read | NBA: Champions Celtics snap two-game losing streak with win over Pacers "Tennis integrity right now, and everyone knows it, but no one wants to speak about it -- it's awful," said the Australian. "It's actually awful and it's not okay. I know that people don't like it when I just speak out about things, be honest about things. "For a kid that grew up playing tennis, I enjoyed the competition, I enjoyed playing. "I can get emotional, I can throw a racquet, but that's nothing compared to cheating and taking performance-enhancing drugs." 'It's disgusting' Asked whether he was accusing Sinner of cheating, Kyrgios told journalists to look at the facts. "He did fail two doping tests at separate times, as well," Kyrgios said. "It wasn't one after the other -- they were a different time frame, so I mean, if you think that that's the way that it got in his system, if that's how you think it's happened, then. "But, I mean, if he didn't do anything wrong, then why did they take his prize money and points away? Obviously they found something wrong with it." With former women's world number one Iga Swiatek also having been suspended for a doping violation in 2024, Kyrgios said the sport's image was being tarnished. "I just think that it's been handled horrifically in our sport," he said. The ITIA accepted that Swiatek's violation was not intentional and she received only a one-month ban. "Two world number ones both getting done for doping is disgusting for our sport. It's a horrible look," said Kyrgios, who has been out of the sport since suffering knee and wrist injuries at the 2022 US Open. Kyrgios has had wrist reconstruction and said while it was a success, he was unsure how the wrist would cope with tournament play. "I'm just not going to take anything for granted," he said. "I'm going to go out there and play. It's literally going to be a day-by-day symptomatic injury moving forward. "If I play a long match, jam it the right way, who knows how it's going to pull up the next day. That's the type of injury it is." Kyrgios's comeback begins against rising French star Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

‘Tennis’ integrity is awful,’ Kyrgios on punishment for Sinner’s failed dope test

Perth,&nbsp;Australia: Alexander Zverev begins his 2025 season this week with the goal of becoming world number one, but he said Friday staying fit and healthy was equally important.&nbsp;Currently ranked two, he starts his campaign on Sunday when United Cup holders Germany face Brazil in a group match at the mixed-teams tournament in the lead up to next month's Australian Open.
Zverev trails world number one Italian Jannik Sinner by more than 3,000 ranking points, but his confidence is high after&nbsp;winning the Rome and Paris Masters 1000 titles in recent months.&nbsp;
The 27-year-old called the results "satisfying" but added that "I'm not satisfied yet. I want to achieve more goals and dreams".&nbsp;He said he was thankful&nbsp;to be back as a solid contender after a serious&nbsp;ankle ligament tear in the 2022 French Open semi-finals against Rafael Nadal put his career in doubt.&nbsp;
"I was one match away from world number one before the injury," he said.&nbsp; "But I'm again competing for big events, the best spots in our sport. I feared that I might not be able to do that again. I was never sure to be back at this level."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-injury-forces-simona-halep-to-withdraw-from-australian-open-2025-8569187" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Tennis: Injury forces Simona Halep to withdraw from Australian Open 2025</a>
He showed his resilience by making the French Open final last June and is determined to try and go further at the major tournaments, starting with bettering the semi-finals he made at the Australian Open last year and in 2020.
"I've been close on multiple occasions for a first Grand Slam title. But I want to stay healthy and fit, that is the main goal," he said.
<div class="post-content">
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
</div>

German star Alexander Zverev aiming to challenge Jannik Sinner for top ranking in 2025

Perth, Australia: Alexander Zverev begins his 2025 season this week with the goal of becoming world number one, but he said Friday staying fit and healthy was equally important. Currently ranked two, he starts his campaign on Sunday when United Cup holders Germany face Brazil in a group match at the mixed-teams tournament in the lead up to next month's Australian Open. Zverev trails world number one Italian Jannik Sinner by more than 3,000 ranking points, but his confidence is high after winning the Rome and Paris Masters 1000 titles in recent months. The 27-year-old called the results "satisfying" but added that "I'm not satisfied yet. I want to achieve more goals and dreams". He said he was thankful to be back as a solid contender after a serious ankle ligament tear in the 2022 French Open semi-finals against Rafael Nadal put his career in doubt. "I was one match away from world number one before the injury," he said. "But I'm again competing for big events, the best spots in our sport. I feared that I might not be able to do that again. I was never sure to be back at this level." Also read: Tennis: Injury forces Simona Halep to withdraw from Australian Open 2025 He showed his resilience by making the French Open final last June and is determined to try and go further at the major tournaments, starting with bettering the semi-finals he made at the Australian Open last year and in 2020. "I've been close on multiple occasions for a first Grand Slam title. But I want to stay healthy and fit, that is the main goal," he said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

German star Alexander Zverev aiming to challenge Jannik Sinner for top ranking

Tennis star Jannik Sinner's doping case will not have a decision from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) before the end of the year, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) told AFP.

"There will be nothing by the end of the year," WADA director general Olivier Niggli said in an interview with AFP.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ruben-amorim-plays-down-manchester-city-contact-before-joining-rivals-united-783876">Ruben Amorim plays down Manchester City contact before joining rivals United</a>

The Italian world number one twice tested positive for traces of the banned substance clostebol in March but was exonerated and allowed to carry on playing.

An independent tribunal at the end of August, requested by the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) found that the Australian Open and US Open champion "bears no fault or negligence".

The ITIA accepted Sinner's explanation that the drug entered his system when his physiotherapist used a spray containing it to treat a cut, then provided massage and sports therapy to the player.

WADA have appealed the decision to clear the 23-year-old and are seeking a ban of up to two years.

"It was considered in the decision that there was no fault on the part of Sinner. Our position is that there is still a responsibility of the athlete in relation to his entourage," Niggli said. "So it is this legal point that will be debated (before CAS).

"We do not dispute the fact that it could have been a contamination. But we believe that the application of the rules does not correspond to the case law."

While the ITIA were criticised for having revealed late the positive tests of Sinner and of women's world number two Iga Swiatek, Niggli believes that "athletes must be protected".

Swiatek last month accepted a one-month suspension after testing positive for the heart medication trimetazidine (TMZ) in an out-of-competition sample in August 2024.

"Personally, I think that protecting an athlete's reputation should be our first concern," said Niggli. &nbsp;"We live in a world where social media is what it is and means that a reputation can go up in smoke in a very, very short time."

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Tennis star Jannik Sinner's doping case will not have a decision from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) before the end of the year, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) told AFP.

Tennis star Jannik Sinner's doping case will not have a decision from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) before the end of the year, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) told AFP. "There will be nothing by the end of the year," WADA director general Olivier Niggli said in an interview with AFP. ALSO READ: Ruben Amorim plays down Manchester City contact before joining rivals United The Italian world number one twice tested positive for traces of the banned substance clostebol in March but was exonerated and allowed to carry on playing. An independent tribunal at the end of August, requested by the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) found that the Australian Open and US Open champion "bears no fault or negligence". The ITIA accepted Sinner's explanation that the drug entered his system when his physiotherapist used a spray containing it to treat a cut, then provided massage and sports therapy to the player. WADA have appealed the decision to clear the 23-year-old and are seeking a ban of up to two years. "It was considered in the decision that there was no fault on the part of Sinner. Our position is that there is still a responsibility of the athlete in relation to his entourage," Niggli said. "So it is this legal point that will be debated (before CAS). "We do not dispute the fact that it could have been a contamination. But we believe that the application of the rules does not correspond to the case law." While the ITIA were criticised for having revealed late the positive tests of Sinner and of women's world number two Iga Swiatek, Niggli believes that "athletes must be protected". Swiatek last month accepted a one-month suspension after testing positive for the heart medication trimetazidine (TMZ) in an out-of-competition sample in August 2024. "Personally, I think that protecting an athlete's reputation should be our first concern," said Niggli. "We live in a world where social media is what it is and means that a reputation can go up in smoke in a very, very short time." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Tennis - No decision on Jannik Sinner’s doping case before new year: WADA

World number one Jannik Sinner said his off-court turmoil over doping accusations was "heartbreaking", after winning the Davis Cup with Italy on Sunday to complete a stellar year. The 23-year-old won the Australian Open, US Open and ATP Finals before starring for Italy as they claimed a second consecutive Davis Cup triumph, but admitted he is not able to play with a completely clear head.

Sinner is still waiting for the outcome of the World Anti-Doping Agency's (WADA) appeal against his initial exoneration for twice testing positive for traces of the steroid clostebol in March.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-davis-cup-organisers-hit-back-on-rafael-nadal-retirement-ceremony-critics-778941">Davis Cup organisers hit back on Rafael Nadal retirement ceremony critics</a>

"Of course it's in the head a little bit," said Sinner. "The most important part is all the people who are around me, who know me as a human being trust me -- that's also why I kept playing the level I have.

"Those who know me, I was emotionally a bit down, a bit heartbroken. Sometimes life gives you difficulties and you just have to (deal with) it."

After Italy defeated the Netherlands in the final, Dutch captain Paul Haarhuis said from the outside the doping case against Sinner was impossible to analyse.

"About doping, we never know what happened," said Haarhuis. "What's my feeling? Jannik is an unbelievable nice guy, a great player, but we never know what happened."

Sinner prevously told the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) that small quantities of clostebol found in his system were due to "contamination by a member of his staff who had applied an over-the-counter spray containing clostebol on his own hand to treat a small wound".

The ITIA accepted Sinner's claim and he escaped a lengthy ban, but WADA appealed and is demanding a suspension of one to two years.

Sinner became the first player since 20-time Grand Slam winning Swiss great Roger Federer in 2005 to go through a season without a defeat in straight sets.

The Italian defeated Netherlands' Tallon Griekspoor in the second singles rubber to clinch the Davis Cup, after Matteo Berrettini beat Botic van de Zandschulp in the opener.

"Coming back as defending champions and winning again is one of the best feelings," said Sinner. "I'm very happy and glad that we managed this. The whole team, we gave 100 percent, there's a lot of work behind the scenes which all of you cannot see."

Berrettini had a superb tournament, winning once in doubles against Argentina in the last eight and singles rubbers against Australia and Netherlands.

The 2021 Wimbledon runner-up hailed Sinner's performance over the season, since he inspired Italy to glory a year ago.

"It's a special experience (to watch Sinner)... last year when we were here we were looking in each other's eyes and saying that this guy is someone else, something different," said Berrettini. "We'd never seen someone hitting the ball so hard, so flat, since then he's lost six matches and as you can see he's the most humble guy on the planet."

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World number one Jannik Sinner said his off-court turmoil over doping accusations was "heartbreaking", after winning the Davis Cup with Italy on Sunday to complete a stellar year.

World number one Jannik Sinner said his off-court turmoil over doping accusations was "heartbreaking", after winning the Davis Cup with Italy on Sunday to complete a stellar year. The 23-year-old won the Australian Open, US Open and ATP Finals before starring for Italy as they claimed a second consecutive Davis Cup triumph, but admitted he is not able to play with a completely clear head. Sinner is still waiting for the outcome of the World Anti-Doping Agency's (WADA) appeal against his initial exoneration for twice testing positive for traces of the steroid clostebol in March. ALSO READ: Davis Cup organisers hit back on Rafael Nadal retirement ceremony critics "Of course it's in the head a little bit," said Sinner. "The most important part is all the people who are around me, who know me as a human being trust me -- that's also why I kept playing the level I have. "Those who know me, I was emotionally a bit down, a bit heartbroken. Sometimes life gives you difficulties and you just have to (deal with) it." After Italy defeated the Netherlands in the final, Dutch captain Paul Haarhuis said from the outside the doping case against Sinner was impossible to analyse. "About doping, we never know what happened," said Haarhuis. "What's my feeling? Jannik is an unbelievable nice guy, a great player, but we never know what happened." Sinner prevously told the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) that small quantities of clostebol found in his system were due to "contamination by a member of his staff who had applied an over-the-counter spray containing clostebol on his own hand to treat a small wound". The ITIA accepted Sinner's claim and he escaped a lengthy ban, but WADA appealed and is demanding a suspension of one to two years. Sinner became the first player since 20-time Grand Slam winning Swiss great Roger Federer in 2005 to go through a season without a defeat in straight sets. The Italian defeated Netherlands' Tallon Griekspoor in the second singles rubber to clinch the Davis Cup, after Matteo Berrettini beat Botic van de Zandschulp in the opener. "Coming back as defending champions and winning again is one of the best feelings," said Sinner. "I'm very happy and glad that we managed this. The whole team, we gave 100 percent, there's a lot of work behind the scenes which all of you cannot see." Berrettini had a superb tournament, winning once in doubles against Argentina in the last eight and singles rubbers against Australia and Netherlands. The 2021 Wimbledon runner-up hailed Sinner's performance over the season, since he inspired Italy to glory a year ago. "It's a special experience (to watch Sinner)... last year when we were here we were looking in each other's eyes and saying that this guy is someone else, something different," said Berrettini. "We'd never seen someone hitting the ball so hard, so flat, since then he's lost six matches and as you can see he's the most humble guy on the planet." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Tennis: Italy’s Davis Cup winner Jannik Sinner ‘heartbroken’ over doping accusations

World number one Jannik Sinner was described as a "puzzle that not many have solved" after defeating Alex de Minaur to power holders Italy into the Davis Cup final with a 2-0 victory over Australia on Saturday. The two-time winners will face Netherlands in Sunday's showpiece after the Dutch ousted Germany 2-0 on Friday to make the final for the first time in 104 years of trying.

Sinner, who has never lost against De Minaur in nine matches including last year's Davis Cup final, triumphed 6-3, 6-4 in Malaga.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-novak-djokovic-announces-recently-retired-andy-murray-as-new-coach-778729">Novak Djokovic announces recently retired Andy Murray as new coach</a>

In the first singles rubber Matteo Berrettini earned a 6-7 (6/8), 6-3, 7-5 win over Australia's Thanasi Kokkinakis in two hours 46 minutes.

"Finals are a huge privilege to be a part of -- Sunday is a final and I'm very happy to be here in this position," said Sinner. "Winning would mean so much for us, not only for the win but because it would mean we defended our title.

"If we don't, it's still an amazing achievement, we showed it was not lucky last year, we're here because we are an amazing team."

Australia, beaten finalists in each of the last two years, are the second most successful team in the tournament's history with 28 titles but last won it in 2003.

Australian Open, US Open and ATP Finals winner Sinner is enjoying a superb year and can cap it with another Davis Cup triumph.

The 23-year-old is still waiting for the outcome of the World Anti-Doping Agency's appeal against his initial exoneration for twice testing positive for traces of the steroid clostebol in March.

However he has not been distracted and despite De Minaur, ranked ninth, battling hard, claimed the first set without much stress.

The players exchanged breaks in the second and third games before Sinner broke decisively for a 4-2 lead with a delicious drop shot, and he served it out.

The Italian worked the first break points of the second set in the ninth game. De Minaur saved two but Sinner converted the third with a passing shot to serve for the match.

Sinner claimed victory when De Minaur returned badly wide and mangled his racquet in sheer frustration.

"He hasn't won a million matches this year for no reason -- it was tough," admitted De Minaur. "It's like trying to solve a puzzle that not a lot of people have managed to solve.

"His ball speed, his consistency, it feels like there's no real let down of focus throughout the whole match."

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World number one Jannik Sinner was described as a "puzzle that not many have solved" after defeating Alex de Minaur to power holders Italy into the Davis Cup final with a 2-0 victory over Australia on Saturday.

World number one Jannik Sinner was described as a "puzzle that not many have solved" after defeating Alex de Minaur to power holders Italy into the Davis Cup final with a 2-0 victory over Australia on Saturday. The two-time winners will face Netherlands in Sunday's showpiece after the Dutch ousted Germany 2-0 on Friday to make the final for the first time in 104 years of trying. Sinner, who has never lost against De Minaur in nine matches including last year's Davis Cup final, triumphed 6-3, 6-4 in Malaga. ALSO READ: Novak Djokovic announces recently retired Andy Murray as new coach In the first singles rubber Matteo Berrettini earned a 6-7 (6/8), 6-3, 7-5 win over Australia's Thanasi Kokkinakis in two hours 46 minutes. "Finals are a huge privilege to be a part of -- Sunday is a final and I'm very happy to be here in this position," said Sinner. "Winning would mean so much for us, not only for the win but because it would mean we defended our title. "If we don't, it's still an amazing achievement, we showed it was not lucky last year, we're here because we are an amazing team." Australia, beaten finalists in each of the last two years, are the second most successful team in the tournament's history with 28 titles but last won it in 2003. Australian Open, US Open and ATP Finals winner Sinner is enjoying a superb year and can cap it with another Davis Cup triumph. The 23-year-old is still waiting for the outcome of the World Anti-Doping Agency's appeal against his initial exoneration for twice testing positive for traces of the steroid clostebol in March. However he has not been distracted and despite De Minaur, ranked ninth, battling hard, claimed the first set without much stress. The players exchanged breaks in the second and third games before Sinner broke decisively for a 4-2 lead with a delicious drop shot, and he served it out. The Italian worked the first break points of the second set in the ninth game. De Minaur saved two but Sinner converted the third with a passing shot to serve for the match. Sinner claimed victory when De Minaur returned badly wide and mangled his racquet in sheer frustration. "He hasn't won a million matches this year for no reason -- it was tough," admitted De Minaur. "It's like trying to solve a puzzle that not a lot of people have managed to solve. "His ball speed, his consistency, it feels like there's no real let down of focus throughout the whole match." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Tennis: World number one Jannik Sinner powers Italy to Davis Cup final with win over Australia

Taylor Fritz closed in on the last four of the ATP Finals on Thursday after coming from behind to beat Alex De Minaur 5-7, 6-4, 6-3.

American Fritz came through an entertaining match in Turin to send home Finals debutant De Minaur, who by winning a set handed Jannik Sinner a semi-finals spot.

Sinner heads into his last match in the Ilie Nastase Group against Daniil Medvedev knowing that he is through no matter what, with a win ensuring him of top spot.

Fritz meanwhile will join Sinner in the knockout stage as long as the world number one wins at least one set in front of his home fans.

"If I don't get through it's going to be tough because I did play two very good matches, won both those matches and lost to the best player in the world so If I don't make it though it's tough," said Fritz.&nbsp;

"But if that happens I'm happy with my week and I leave with my head held high. Yeah, I'll definitely be checking the score!"

Sinner is hunting his first Finals title after an exceptional season in which he won seven tournaments, including his first Grand Slam victories at the Australian and US Opens.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ms-dhoni-virat-kohli-rohit-and-dravid-wasted-10-years-of-my-sons-career-claims-sanju-samsons-father-776013">MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit and Dravid wasted 10 years of my son's career, claims Sanju Samson's father</a>

He lost last year's final to Novak Djokovic, who pulled out of the tournament injured this time around.

Sinner entered the season-ending event already assured of becoming the first Italian to top the ATP end-of-year rankings.

However, he has been dogged by controversy after twice testing positive for traces of the steroid clostebol in March.

He was initially cleared by the International Tennis Integrity Agency but at the end of September the World Anti-Doping Agency appealed, seeking a ban of up to two years.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Taylor Fritz closed in on the last four of the ATP Finals on Thursday after coming from behind to beat Alex De Minaur 5-7, 6-4, 6-3. American Fritz came through an entertaining match in Turin to send home Finals debutant De Minaur, who by winning a set handed Jannik Sinner a semi-finals spot.

Taylor Fritz closed in on the last four of the ATP Finals on Thursday after coming from behind to beat Alex De Minaur 5-7, 6-4, 6-3. American Fritz came through an entertaining match in Turin to send home Finals debutant De Minaur, who by winning a set handed Jannik Sinner a semi-finals spot. Sinner heads into his last match in the Ilie Nastase Group against Daniil Medvedev knowing that he is through no matter what, with a win ensuring him of top spot. Fritz meanwhile will join Sinner in the knockout stage as long as the world number one wins at least one set in front of his home fans. "If I don't get through it's going to be tough because I did play two very good matches, won both those matches and lost to the best player in the world so If I don't make it though it's tough," said Fritz. "But if that happens I'm happy with my week and I leave with my head held high. Yeah, I'll definitely be checking the score!" Sinner is hunting his first Finals title after an exceptional season in which he won seven tournaments, including his first Grand Slam victories at the Australian and US Opens. ALSO READ | MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit and Dravid wasted 10 years of my son's career, claims Sanju Samson's father He lost last year's final to Novak Djokovic, who pulled out of the tournament injured this time around. Sinner entered the season-ending event already assured of becoming the first Italian to top the ATP end-of-year rankings. However, he has been dogged by controversy after twice testing positive for traces of the steroid clostebol in March. He was initially cleared by the International Tennis Integrity Agency but at the end of September the World Anti-Doping Agency appealed, seeking a ban of up to two years. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

ATP Finals: Taylor Fritz beats Alex De Minaur to eye last four, Jannik Sinner through

Jannik Sinner hit the accelerator at the end of each set as he cruised past Taylor Fritz 6-4, 6-4 on Tuesday to close in on a semi-final spot at the ATP Finals in Turin.

In September, Sinner had to overcome raucous home support to win his last meeting with the American as he claimed victory in the final of the US Open, also in straight sets.

This time, the Turin crowd was nosily behind the Italian.&nbsp;

"The crowd is helping me a lot," said Sinner on the court.&nbsp;

The hard-hitting Fritz, ranked number five, put pressure on Sinner's serve early in the first set. The American had the first break point of the match in the 14-minute seventh game but could not take his chance.

Sinner responded at once, but wasted three break points in the next game before breaking to 15 in the 10th game to take the set.

"I was struggling to return his serve but I am happy with how I handled the situation," said Sinner.&nbsp;

The second set also went with serve until the 10th game when Fritz double-faulted on Sinner's first match point.

"It was a very tough match," said Sinner. "We got to know each other very well in a Grand Slam final, we knew exactly what to expect today it was very aggressive as I was prepared for."

Victory put Sinner top of the Ilie Nastase group with just Daniil Medvedev to face. The home favourite could still be eliminated with a straight-sets loss.

Fritz faces Alex de Minaur who has lost both his matches so far.

In the afternoon match, former champion Medvedev brushed aside Finals debutant De Minaur 6-2, 6-4 to bounce back from an opening defeat and boost his hopes of making the knock-out phase.

The Russian, who lost his first group-stage match to Fritz, overpowered De Minaur to push his Australian opponent.

Medvedev, who lifted the title in 2020, did not face a single break point and broke De Minaur's serve three times.

The fourth seed will next face Sinner on Thursday.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl/news-dallas-cowboys-qb-dak-prescott-to-undergo-season-ending-surgery-informs-team-owner-jerry-jones-775649">Dallas Cowboys QB Dak Prescott to undergo season-ending surgery, informs team owner Jerry Jones</a>

"I decided not to care about it in a good way," Medvedev said. "If I lose, the season is over, if I win I have another chance on Thursday... I'll try and do the same the next match, so I don't care."

Both players battled to holds in their opening service games but Medvedev broke for a 2-1 lead and never looked back.

He struck 16 winners in the first set and then lost just two points behind his serve in the second.

A break in the ninth game of the second set proved decisive and he closed out victory with another comfortable hold.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Jannik Sinner hit the accelerator at the end of each set as he cruised past Taylor Fritz 6-4, 6-4 on Tuesday to close in on a semi-final spot at the ATP Finals in Turin.

Jannik Sinner hit the accelerator at the end of each set as he cruised past Taylor Fritz 6-4, 6-4 on Tuesday to close in on a semi-final spot at the ATP Finals in Turin. In September, Sinner had to overcome raucous home support to win his last meeting with the American as he claimed victory in the final of the US Open, also in straight sets. This time, the Turin crowd was nosily behind the Italian. "The crowd is helping me a lot," said Sinner on the court. The hard-hitting Fritz, ranked number five, put pressure on Sinner's serve early in the first set. The American had the first break point of the match in the 14-minute seventh game but could not take his chance. Sinner responded at once, but wasted three break points in the next game before breaking to 15 in the 10th game to take the set. "I was struggling to return his serve but I am happy with how I handled the situation," said Sinner. The second set also went with serve until the 10th game when Fritz double-faulted on Sinner's first match point. "It was a very tough match," said Sinner. "We got to know each other very well in a Grand Slam final, we knew exactly what to expect today it was very aggressive as I was prepared for." Victory put Sinner top of the Ilie Nastase group with just Daniil Medvedev to face. The home favourite could still be eliminated with a straight-sets loss. Fritz faces Alex de Minaur who has lost both his matches so far. In the afternoon match, former champion Medvedev brushed aside Finals debutant De Minaur 6-2, 6-4 to bounce back from an opening defeat and boost his hopes of making the knock-out phase. The Russian, who lost his first group-stage match to Fritz, overpowered De Minaur to push his Australian opponent. Medvedev, who lifted the title in 2020, did not face a single break point and broke De Minaur's serve three times. The fourth seed will next face Sinner on Thursday. ALSO READ | Dallas Cowboys QB Dak Prescott to undergo season-ending surgery, informs team owner Jerry Jones "I decided not to care about it in a good way," Medvedev said. "If I lose, the season is over, if I win I have another chance on Thursday... I'll try and do the same the next match, so I don't care." Both players battled to holds in their opening service games but Medvedev broke for a 2-1 lead and never looked back. He struck 16 winners in the first set and then lost just two points behind his serve in the second. A break in the ninth game of the second set proved decisive and he closed out victory with another comfortable hold. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

ATP Finals: Jannik Sinner turns aside Taylor Fritz to close in on  last four

World number one Jannik Sinner defeated 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic 7-6 (7/4), 6-3 on Sunday to win the Shanghai Masters.

Sinner took a crucial break in the fourth game of the second set to defeat the Serb in 1hr 37min and deny him a 100th career singles title.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/interim-coach-lee-carsley-confirms-not-applying-for-england-head-coach-job-766982">Interim coach Lee Carsley confirms not applying for England head coach job</a>

"He was just too good today, too strong, too fast," Djokovic said after the match.&nbsp;

Sinner said it was a "very special day", saluting his opponent as a "legend" who kept playing "incredible tennis... year after year".

In a nod to former Djokovic rival Roger Federer, who was watching from the stands, the 23-year-old joked: "There are legends everywhere, I just try to keep up a little bit."

Facing off before an impassioned crowd, neither player blinked in the first set, unable to break the other's serve.

Sinner quickly took control in the tiebreak, breaking Djokovic's serve on the first point and going 5-1 up.

The Serb steadied himself but then netted a volley to bring up set point at 6-3.

Sinner failed to convert initially but didn't miss the second time behind serve.

The next key moment came in the fourth game of the second set when Sinner was up 40-15 on Djokovic's serve.

Djokovic saved one break point with a fiery ace but couldn't stop a superb forehand down the line from Sinner that saw him pull ahead.

All that remained was for the Italian to hold his nerve, hitting an ace to finish the match and claim the title.&nbsp;

<h2>'Tough year'</h2>

Sinner's victory is the latest triumph in a formidable season, in which he has won two Grand Slams and retained the top spot in the rankings since June.

But it is also a year that has seen him embroiled in controversy after he twice tested positive for a banned steroid in March.

In August, the International Tennis Integrity Agency accepted Sinner's explanation that the drug entered his system unintentionally when his physiotherapist used a spray containing it to treat a cut, then provided massage and sports therapy to the player.

However, the World Anti-Doping Agency said last month it would appeal against the decision to clear him of wrongdoing and was seeking a ban of up to two years.

That news came as Sinner was contesting the China Open, where he lost in the final to Spain's Carlos Alcaraz, who was also watching from the stands on Sunday.&nbsp;

"This year has been very, very tough for me... At points I lost a little bit of smile," Sinner said on Sunday.&nbsp;

"It's never easy to play in these kind of circumstances," he added.&nbsp;

"I feel like I'm strong when I go on the court trying to not think about it... When I wake up I try to focus on every single (match or practice) I do, but then of course I have moments when I think about it which is not comfortable."

<h2>'Deserved' win</h2>

Djokovic said Sinner played "the big points better" and "deserved to win".

The 37-year-old said that getting a 100th title was "not a live-or-die type of goal", but he would keep trying.

Djokovic became the last man standing from tennis' golden era after Rafael Nadal announced his retirement this week and said that, despite the loss, he was pleased with his performance in Shanghai.

"I played pretty good, which gives me, I guess, a reason to believe that I can still play with these guys that are the best in the world at this level," he said.&nbsp;

"As long as that's the case, I guess I'll still feel the need to keep on competing and the motivation to be out there."

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World number one Jannik Sinner defeated 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic 7-6 (7/4), 6-3 on Sunday to win the Shanghai Masters. Sinner took a crucial break in the fourth game of the second set to defeat the Serb in 1hr 37min and deny him a 100th career singles title.

World number one Jannik Sinner defeated 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic 7-6 (7/4), 6-3 on Sunday to win the Shanghai Masters. Sinner took a crucial break in the fourth game of the second set to defeat the Serb in 1hr 37min and deny him a 100th career singles title. Also Read: Interim coach Lee Carsley confirms not applying for England head coach job "He was just too good today, too strong, too fast," Djokovic said after the match. Sinner said it was a "very special day", saluting his opponent as a "legend" who kept playing "incredible tennis... year after year". In a nod to former Djokovic rival Roger Federer, who was watching from the stands, the 23-year-old joked: "There are legends everywhere, I just try to keep up a little bit." Facing off before an impassioned crowd, neither player blinked in the first set, unable to break the other's serve. Sinner quickly took control in the tiebreak, breaking Djokovic's serve on the first point and going 5-1 up. The Serb steadied himself but then netted a volley to bring up set point at 6-3. Sinner failed to convert initially but didn't miss the second time behind serve. The next key moment came in the fourth game of the second set when Sinner was up 40-15 on Djokovic's serve. Djokovic saved one break point with a fiery ace but couldn't stop a superb forehand down the line from Sinner that saw him pull ahead. All that remained was for the Italian to hold his nerve, hitting an ace to finish the match and claim the title. 'Tough year' Sinner's victory is the latest triumph in a formidable season, in which he has won two Grand Slams and retained the top spot in the rankings since June. But it is also a year that has seen him embroiled in controversy after he twice tested positive for a banned steroid in March. In August, the International Tennis Integrity Agency accepted Sinner's explanation that the drug entered his system unintentionally when his physiotherapist used a spray containing it to treat a cut, then provided massage and sports therapy to the player. However, the World Anti-Doping Agency said last month it would appeal against the decision to clear him of wrongdoing and was seeking a ban of up to two years. That news came as Sinner was contesting the China Open, where he lost in the final to Spain's Carlos Alcaraz, who was also watching from the stands on Sunday. "This year has been very, very tough for me... At points I lost a little bit of smile," Sinner said on Sunday. "It's never easy to play in these kind of circumstances," he added. "I feel like I'm strong when I go on the court trying to not think about it... When I wake up I try to focus on every single (match or practice) I do, but then of course I have moments when I think about it which is not comfortable." 'Deserved' win Djokovic said Sinner played "the big points better" and "deserved to win". The 37-year-old said that getting a 100th title was "not a live-or-die type of goal", but he would keep trying. Djokovic became the last man standing from tennis' golden era after Rafael Nadal announced his retirement this week and said that, despite the loss, he was pleased with his performance in Shanghai. "I played pretty good, which gives me, I guess, a reason to believe that I can still play with these guys that are the best in the world at this level," he said. "As long as that's the case, I guess I'll still feel the need to keep on competing and the motivation to be out there." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Jannik Sinner denies Novak Djokovic 100th career title with Shanghai Masters win

World number one Jannik Sinner reached the final of the Shanghai Masters after convincingly defeating the Czech Republic's Tomas Machac 6-4, 7-5 on Saturday.

Sinner will face either Novak Djokovic -- a four-time Shanghai champion -- or world number seven Taylor Fritz in the final.&nbsp;

The 33rd-ranked Machac was looking to repeat his giant-slaying of Thursday, when he knocked out world number two Carlos Alcaraz in straight sets.

The semi-final got off to an electric start when the Czech broke Sinner in the first game.

But the two-time Grand Slam champion kept his cool to break back in the fourth, then claimed the tenth game to clinch the set.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/cant-win-a-test-pak-skipper-shan-masood-blames-bowlers-for-crushing-innings-loss-vs-england-766855">'Can't win a Test...,' Pak skipper Shan Masood blames bowlers for crushing innings loss vs England</a>

In the second set, neither was able to break serve until the 12th game, when the Italian hit a winner to book his place in Sunday's final.&nbsp;

"It was very tough... he is playing with so much confidence and he can hit a ball really hard, and is serving very well," said Sinner.&nbsp;

"I tried to stay there mentally... I'm very happy about how I'm fighting at the moment."

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World number one Jannik Sinner reached the final of the Shanghai Masters after convincingly defeating the Czech Republic's Tomas Machac 6-4, 7-5 on Saturday. Sinner will face either Novak Djokovic -- a four-time Shanghai champion -- or world number seven Taylor Fritz in the final.

World number one Jannik Sinner reached the final of the Shanghai Masters after convincingly defeating the Czech Republic's Tomas Machac 6-4, 7-5 on Saturday. Sinner will face either Novak Djokovic -- a four-time Shanghai champion -- or world number seven Taylor Fritz in the final. The 33rd-ranked Machac was looking to repeat his giant-slaying of Thursday, when he knocked out world number two Carlos Alcaraz in straight sets. The semi-final got off to an electric start when the Czech broke Sinner in the first game. But the two-time Grand Slam champion kept his cool to break back in the fourth, then claimed the tenth game to clinch the set. ALSO READ | 'Can't win a Test...,' Pak skipper Shan Masood blames bowlers for crushing innings loss vs England In the second set, neither was able to break serve until the 12th game, when the Italian hit a winner to book his place in Sunday's final. "It was very tough... he is playing with so much confidence and he can hit a ball really hard, and is serving very well," said Sinner. "I tried to stay there mentally... I'm very happy about how I'm fighting at the moment." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Shanghai Masters: Jannik Sinner tames Tomas Machac to reach final; to face winner of Djokovic-Fritz

Carlos Alcaraz roared back from a set down to beat world number one Jannik Sinner in a thriller and win his first China Open title on Wednesday.

The four-time Grand Slam champion from Spain edged Sinner in a captivating final 6-7 (6/8), 6-4, 7-6 (7/3) for his fourth ATP crown of the year and 16th overall.

Alcaraz, who is set to return to number two in the world behind Sinner, was 3-0 down in the final-set tie-break only to fight back and win in three hours, 21 minutes.

The dramatic triumph ended Sinner's run of 14 victories in a row and saw him deposed as the Beijing champion after an intense&nbsp;fight.

"What can I say about the year you're having, it's unbelievable," Alcaraz told Sinner at the victory presentation.

"I respect you a lot as a player, but even more as a person."

US Open champion Sinner has been playing in Beijing under fresh scrutiny.

The Italian has admitted to sleepless nights over his doping case, which was reignited at the weekend when the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) said it had appealed the decision to clear him.

In front of a packed house in the Chinese capital, the early exchanges were nervy, with both players under immediate pressure on their service games.

Sinner, 23, was the first to blink, with second-seeded Alcaraz breaking for a 3-1 lead and celebrating with a fist pump.

The Spaniard held easily for 4-1 and had his opponent uncharacteristically rattled.

Alcaraz, 21, served for the set, but US Open champion Sinner grabbed the break, when he needed it most.

Sinner then saved set point on his own serve to force the tie break, and saved another in the tie break before taking the set at his first opportunity when Alcaraz fired long.

It was the first set Alcaraz had dropped all week.

The second set was just as tight.&nbsp;

Both players saw chances come and go, but they went with the serve until Alcaraz broke for 5-4, before holding with ease to send the final into a third set.

The decider again went to a tie break, where Alcaraz finally prevailed on his first match point.

"It was a great battle again," said Sinner, who twice tested positive for a steroid in March, but tennis authorities cleared him of wrongdoing and allowed him to keep playing.

In August, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) accepted Sinner's explanation that the drug entered his system unintentionally when his physiotherapist used a spray containing it to treat a cut, then provided massage and sports therapy to the player.

WADA on Saturday said it had appealed and was seeking a ban of up to two years.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/icc-rankings-bumrah-gains-top-spot-in-test-bowlers-jaiswal-goes-third-in-batters-after-bangladesh-win-763871">ICC Rankings: Bumrah gains top spot among Test bowlers, Jaiswal third in batting after Bangladesh win</a>

<h2>Ruthless Sabalenka</h2>

In the women's draw, top seed Aryna Sabalenka won her 15th match in a row to power into the quarter-finals with a 6-4, 6-3 victory over Madison Keys.

The US Open champion will face Karolina Muchova of the Czech Republic.

World number two Sabalenka has won more matches on tour this season than anyone else and extended her red-hot streak with a fairly routine victory over the 24th-ranked American.

Sabalenka is on a collision course in the semi-finals with China's Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen, who faces 43rd-ranked Amanda Anisimova in the last 16 later Wednesday.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Carlos Alcaraz roared back from a set down to beat world number one Jannik Sinner in a thriller and win his first China Open title on Wednesday. The four-time Grand Slam champion from Spain edged Sinner in a captivating final 6-7 (6/8), 6-4, 7-6 (7/3) for his fourth ATP crown of the year and 16th overall.

Carlos Alcaraz roared back from a set down to beat world number one Jannik Sinner in a thriller and win his first China Open title on Wednesday. The four-time Grand Slam champion from Spain edged Sinner in a captivating final 6-7 (6/8), 6-4, 7-6 (7/3) for his fourth ATP crown of the year and 16th overall. Alcaraz, who is set to return to number two in the world behind Sinner, was 3-0 down in the final-set tie-break only to fight back and win in three hours, 21 minutes. The dramatic triumph ended Sinner's run of 14 victories in a row and saw him deposed as the Beijing champion after an intense fight. "What can I say about the year you're having, it's unbelievable," Alcaraz told Sinner at the victory presentation. "I respect you a lot as a player, but even more as a person." US Open champion Sinner has been playing in Beijing under fresh scrutiny. The Italian has admitted to sleepless nights over his doping case, which was reignited at the weekend when the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) said it had appealed the decision to clear him. In front of a packed house in the Chinese capital, the early exchanges were nervy, with both players under immediate pressure on their service games. Sinner, 23, was the first to blink, with second-seeded Alcaraz breaking for a 3-1 lead and celebrating with a fist pump. The Spaniard held easily for 4-1 and had his opponent uncharacteristically rattled. Alcaraz, 21, served for the set, but US Open champion Sinner grabbed the break, when he needed it most. Sinner then saved set point on his own serve to force the tie break, and saved another in the tie break before taking the set at his first opportunity when Alcaraz fired long. It was the first set Alcaraz had dropped all week. The second set was just as tight. Both players saw chances come and go, but they went with the serve until Alcaraz broke for 5-4, before holding with ease to send the final into a third set. The decider again went to a tie break, where Alcaraz finally prevailed on his first match point. "It was a great battle again," said Sinner, who twice tested positive for a steroid in March, but tennis authorities cleared him of wrongdoing and allowed him to keep playing. In August, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) accepted Sinner's explanation that the drug entered his system unintentionally when his physiotherapist used a spray containing it to treat a cut, then provided massage and sports therapy to the player. WADA on Saturday said it had appealed and was seeking a ban of up to two years. ALSO READ | ICC Rankings: Bumrah gains top spot among Test bowlers, Jaiswal third in batting after Bangladesh win Ruthless Sabalenka In the women's draw, top seed Aryna Sabalenka won her 15th match in a row to power into the quarter-finals with a 6-4, 6-3 victory over Madison Keys. The US Open champion will face Karolina Muchova of the Czech Republic. World number two Sabalenka has won more matches on tour this season than anyone else and extended her red-hot streak with a fairly routine victory over the 24th-ranked American. Sabalenka is on a collision course in the semi-finals with China's Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen, who faces 43rd-ranked Amanda Anisimova in the last 16 later Wednesday. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

China Open: Battling Carlos Alcaraz outlasts US Open champion Jannik Sinner in thriller to win title

World number one Jannik Sinner said on Monday that he was in "a very difficult moment" and enduring sleepless nights over his doping case.

The 23-year-old is under the microscope anew after the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) said Saturday it was seeking a ban of up to two years after he twice tested positive for traces of the steroid clostebol in March.

The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) had cleared the Italian of wrongdoing in August, and weeks later he won the US Open for his second major title.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/la-liga-angel-correa-snatches-atletico-madrid-spiky-derby-draw-vs-real-madrid-763035">La Liga: Angel Correa snatches Atletico Madrid spiky derby draw vs Real Madrid</a>

The ITIA accepted Sinner's explanation that the drug entered his system when his physiotherapist used a spray containing it to treat a cut, then provided massage and sports therapy to the player.

"First of all it's not a situation where I like to be in, it's a very delicate and difficult and also different situation," Sinner said in Beijing after defeating Jiri Lehecka in the quarter-finals 6-2, 7-6 (8/6).

"But what I know is that I always try to remind myself that I haven't done anything wrong."

"For sure I had sleepless nights during this time. Now again it's going to be not easy."

WADA has appealed the decision to clear him to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), reigniting the case.

"Obviously disappointed that I am again in this situation," said Sinner.

"I just try to stay somehow focused on my work and trying to do everything possible I can to be ready for each match I play."&nbsp;

"But yes, this is a very difficult moment for me and also for my team."&nbsp;

The ITIA found that Sinner "bears no fault or negligence" in the high-profile case and cleared him to carry on playing.

WADA on Saturday said: "It is WADA's view that the finding of 'no fault or negligence' was not correct under the applicable rules."

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World number one Jannik Sinner said on Monday that he was in "a very difficult moment" and enduring sleepless nights over his doping case. The 23-year-old is under the microscope anew after the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) said Saturday it was seeking a ban of up to two years after he twice tested positive for traces of the steroid clostebol in March.

World number one Jannik Sinner said on Monday that he was in "a very difficult moment" and enduring sleepless nights over his doping case. The 23-year-old is under the microscope anew after the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) said Saturday it was seeking a ban of up to two years after he twice tested positive for traces of the steroid clostebol in March. The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) had cleared the Italian of wrongdoing in August, and weeks later he won the US Open for his second major title. Also Read: La Liga: Angel Correa snatches Atletico Madrid spiky derby draw vs Real Madrid The ITIA accepted Sinner's explanation that the drug entered his system when his physiotherapist used a spray containing it to treat a cut, then provided massage and sports therapy to the player. "First of all it's not a situation where I like to be in, it's a very delicate and difficult and also different situation," Sinner said in Beijing after defeating Jiri Lehecka in the quarter-finals 6-2, 7-6 (8/6). "But what I know is that I always try to remind myself that I haven't done anything wrong." "For sure I had sleepless nights during this time. Now again it's going to be not easy." WADA has appealed the decision to clear him to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), reigniting the case. "Obviously disappointed that I am again in this situation," said Sinner. "I just try to stay somehow focused on my work and trying to do everything possible I can to be ready for each match I play." "But yes, this is a very difficult moment for me and also for my team." The ITIA found that Sinner "bears no fault or negligence" in the high-profile case and cleared him to carry on playing. WADA on Saturday said: "It is WADA's view that the finding of 'no fault or negligence' was not correct under the applicable rules." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

'Had sleepless nights...,' reveals two-time US Open winner Jannik Sinner about doping case

Carlos Alcaraz barrelled into the China Open quarter-finals on Sunday in just 56 minutes as 595th-ranked Zhang Shuai extended her historic run.

Rain in Beijing played havoc with the schedule but four-time Grand Slam champion Alcaraz made rapid progress under the roof of the Diamond Court with a 6-1, 6-2 demolition of Tallon Griekspoor.&nbsp;

The 39th-ranked Dutchman looked shellshocked.

Alcaraz, the second seed behind Jannik Sinner, faces seventh-seeded Karen Khachanov next after an ominous showing of intent from the 21-year-old Spaniard.

The Russian Khachanov booked his place with a hard-fought 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (11/9) victory over Argentina's Francisco Cerundolo.

In the only other match completed on the day in the men's draw, Chinese wildcard Bu Yunchaokete pulled off a shock 6-2, 6-4 win over Italian sixth seed Lorenzo Musetti.

There was home joy too in the women's draw as another Chinese wildcard, Zhang Shuai, reached the last 16 to add another chapter to her fairytale tournament.

The 35-year-old had not won a singles match in more than 600 days when she arrived at the prestigious WTA 1000 event last week.

The two-time Grand Slam singles quarter-finalist, who has been plagued by injuries, has now won three matches in a row after a 6-2, 6-3 defeat of Belgium's Greet Minnen.

Zhang, who faced Minnen as the lowest-ranked player to reach the China Open third round in the tournament's history, faces Poland's 23rd seed Magdalena Frech next.

Zhang hails from Tianjin, near Beijing, and said she felt very much at home on the hard courts of the Chinese capital.

So at home in fact that she compared herself jokingly to the Spanish great Rafael Nadal on his favourite surface of the French Open.

"When I am on the court I feel so like Rafa Nadal on Court Philippe-Chatrier," she laughed.

US Open runner-up Jessica Pegula survived a scare to set up a meeting with Spain's Paula Badosa.

The second seed from the United States fought back to beat Russia's Veronika Kudermetova 6-7 (9/11), 6-1, 6-2.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/wtc-standings-sri-lanka-rise-to-third-spot-after-2-0-series-win-in-galle-eyes-on-india-australia-series-762971">WTC Standings: Sri Lanka rise to third spot after 2-0 series win in Galle; eyes on India-Australia series</a>

The 30-year-old Pegula is chasing a seventh WTA Tour title.

The 19th-ranked Badosa booked her place with a straight-sets win over Slovakian qualifier Rebecca Sramkova.

The top women's seed in Beijing is Aryna Sabalenka, who defeated Pegula in New York earlier this month for her third Grand Slam crown.

World number one Iga Swiatek is not in Beijing because of "personal matters".

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Carlos Alcaraz barrelled into the China Open quarter-finals on Sunday in just 56 minutes as 595th-ranked Zhang Shuai extended her historic run. Rain in Beijing played havoc with the schedule but four-time Grand Slam champion Alcaraz made rapid progress under the roof of the Diamond Court with a 6-1, 6-2 demolition of Tallon Griekspoor.

Carlos Alcaraz barrelled into the China Open quarter-finals on Sunday in just 56 minutes as 595th-ranked Zhang Shuai extended her historic run. Rain in Beijing played havoc with the schedule but four-time Grand Slam champion Alcaraz made rapid progress under the roof of the Diamond Court with a 6-1, 6-2 demolition of Tallon Griekspoor. The 39th-ranked Dutchman looked shellshocked. Alcaraz, the second seed behind Jannik Sinner, faces seventh-seeded Karen Khachanov next after an ominous showing of intent from the 21-year-old Spaniard. The Russian Khachanov booked his place with a hard-fought 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (11/9) victory over Argentina's Francisco Cerundolo. In the only other match completed on the day in the men's draw, Chinese wildcard Bu Yunchaokete pulled off a shock 6-2, 6-4 win over Italian sixth seed Lorenzo Musetti. There was home joy too in the women's draw as another Chinese wildcard, Zhang Shuai, reached the last 16 to add another chapter to her fairytale tournament. The 35-year-old had not won a singles match in more than 600 days when she arrived at the prestigious WTA 1000 event last week. The two-time Grand Slam singles quarter-finalist, who has been plagued by injuries, has now won three matches in a row after a 6-2, 6-3 defeat of Belgium's Greet Minnen. Zhang, who faced Minnen as the lowest-ranked player to reach the China Open third round in the tournament's history, faces Poland's 23rd seed Magdalena Frech next. Zhang hails from Tianjin, near Beijing, and said she felt very much at home on the hard courts of the Chinese capital. So at home in fact that she compared herself jokingly to the Spanish great Rafael Nadal on his favourite surface of the French Open. "When I am on the court I feel so like Rafa Nadal on Court Philippe-Chatrier," she laughed. US Open runner-up Jessica Pegula survived a scare to set up a meeting with Spain's Paula Badosa. The second seed from the United States fought back to beat Russia's Veronika Kudermetova 6-7 (9/11), 6-1, 6-2. ALSO READ | WTC Standings: Sri Lanka rise to third spot after 2-0 series win in Galle; eyes on India-Australia series The 30-year-old Pegula is chasing a seventh WTA Tour title. The 19th-ranked Badosa booked her place with a straight-sets win over Slovakian qualifier Rebecca Sramkova. The top women's seed in Beijing is Aryna Sabalenka, who defeated Pegula in New York earlier this month for her third Grand Slam crown. World number one Iga Swiatek is not in Beijing because of "personal matters". Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

China Open: Spain's Carlos Alcaraz wins in 56 minutes as Zhang Shuai extends fairytale

Jannik Sinner’s 2024 has taken yet another unexpected turn after the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) appealed for up to two years of ban for the Italian tennis star on Saturday (Sep 28). The Italian won the Australian Open and the US Open but was in the headlines for all the wrong reasons as he tested positive twice for traces of the banned substance clostebol in March. Despite the case, he avoided a ban from the ATP and would later win the US Open in September.

<h2>WADA seeks ban for Sinner</h2>

"It is WADA's view that the finding of 'no fault or negligence' was not correct under the applicable rules," it said in a statement.

"WADA is seeking a period of ineligibility of between one and two years," it added.

<h2>What is the incident?</h2>

In March, Sinner tested positive for the steroid clostebol, a banned substance used to build muscle. However, he clarified that one of his team members used the substances on his own hand before treating him, thereby passing the substance through hand-to-hand contact. The team members were later fired by Sinner which saw him get into trouble.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/musheer-khan-brother-of-india-batter-sarfaraz-likely-to-miss-irani-trophy-after-road-accident-762754">Musheer Khan, brother of India batter Sarfaraz, set to miss Irani Trophy after road accident</a>

While nothing is concrete on the ban issue, Sinner will aim to add one more feather to his already impressive cap with the ATP World Tour final on the horizon. With the finals taking place in November as the World No. 1 he is already in the pot for the final.

During his run to the Grand Slam wins in Australia and New York he beat the likes of Novak Djokovic and Daniil Medvedev. He beat Medvedev in the final of the Australian Open final and the quarterfinal of the US Open. Djokovic on the other hand was defeated in the semifinal of the Australian Open and became only the eighth tennis player to beat the Serbian star in the inaugural Grand Slam of the year.

Jannik Sinner’s 2024 has taken yet another unexpected turn after the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) appealed for up to two years of ban for the Italian tennis star on Saturday (Sep 28).

Jannik Sinner’s 2024 has taken yet another unexpected turn after the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) appealed for up to two years of ban for the Italian tennis star on Saturday (Sep 28). The Italian won the Australian Open and the US Open but was in the headlines for all the wrong reasons as he tested positive twice for traces of the banned substance clostebol in March. Despite the case, he avoided a ban from the ATP and would later win the US Open in September. WADA seeks ban for Sinner "It is WADA's view that the finding of 'no fault or negligence' was not correct under the applicable rules," it said in a statement. "WADA is seeking a period of ineligibility of between one and two years," it added. What is the incident? In March, Sinner tested positive for the steroid clostebol, a banned substance used to build muscle. However, he clarified that one of his team members used the substances on his own hand before treating him, thereby passing the substance through hand-to-hand contact. The team members were later fired by Sinner which saw him get into trouble. ALSO READ | Musheer Khan, brother of India batter Sarfaraz, set to miss Irani Trophy after road accident While nothing is concrete on the ban issue, Sinner will aim to add one more feather to his already impressive cap with the ATP World Tour final on the horizon. With the finals taking place in November as the World No. 1 he is already in the pot for the final. During his run to the Grand Slam wins in Australia and New York he beat the likes of Novak Djokovic and Daniil Medvedev. He beat Medvedev in the final of the Australian Open final and the quarterfinal of the US Open. Djokovic on the other hand was defeated in the semifinal of the Australian Open and became only the eighth tennis player to beat the Serbian star in the inaugural Grand Slam of the year.

WADA appeals Court of Arbitration for Sport in Jannik Sinner doping case, seeks ban of up to two years

Spain named 22-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz in a five-man Davis Cup team on Monday, while Italian world number one Jannik Sinner will also compete in the final eight in Malaga. Nadal, 38, pulled out of the US Open and Laver Cup in recent months and has only taken part in one of the last seven Grand Slams because of injury and fitness struggles.

French Open and Wimbledon winner Alcaraz will be Spain's key figure as they bid to win the competition dubbed the World Cup of tennis for the first time since 2019, starting with a clash against the Netherlands.

Alcaraz inspired Team Europe to Laver Cup victory over Team World last weekend in Berlin. US Open and Australian Open champion Sinner is part of Italy's squad for the finals, which start on November 19.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-us-open-2024-winner-aryna-sabalenka-chases-year-end-number-one-ranking-761488">US Open 2024 winner Aryna Sabalenka chases year-end number one ranking</a>

The 23-year-old was crucial as Italy triumphed last year, beating Serbian superstar Novak Djokovic twice in one day, first in singles and then in doubles, in the semi-finals. Italy, who face Argentina in their quarter-final clash, beat Australia in the 2023 final to win the competition for the first time since 1976.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Spain named 22-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz in a five-man Davis Cup team on Monday, while Italian world number one Jannik Sinner will also compete in the final eight in Malaga.

Spain named 22-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz in a five-man Davis Cup team on Monday, while Italian world number one Jannik Sinner will also compete in the final eight in Malaga. Nadal, 38, pulled out of the US Open and Laver Cup in recent months and has only taken part in one of the last seven Grand Slams because of injury and fitness struggles. French Open and Wimbledon winner Alcaraz will be Spain's key figure as they bid to win the competition dubbed the World Cup of tennis for the first time since 2019, starting with a clash against the Netherlands. Alcaraz inspired Team Europe to Laver Cup victory over Team World last weekend in Berlin. US Open and Australian Open champion Sinner is part of Italy's squad for the finals, which start on November 19. Also read: US Open 2024 winner Aryna Sabalenka chases year-end number one ranking The 23-year-old was crucial as Italy triumphed last year, beating Serbian superstar Novak Djokovic twice in one day, first in singles and then in doubles, in the semi-finals. Italy, who face Argentina in their quarter-final clash, beat Australia in the 2023 final to win the competition for the first time since 1976. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Rafael Nadal, Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner part of Davis Cup finals teams

Jannik Sinner has hired Novak Djokovic's former fitness coach Marco Panichi in the wake of the world number one being cleared despite testing positive twice for a banned substance.

"Welcome to the team," Sinner wrote on social media on Monday alongside a photo of himself with fellow Italian Panichi and newly-recruited physiotherapist Ulises Badio.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/jude-bellingham-aurelien-tchouameni-back-for-real-madrids-champions-league-opener-confirms-carlo-ancelotti-759154">Jude Bellingham, Aurelien Tchouameni back for Real Madrid's Champions League opener, confirms Carlo Ancelotti</a>

The pair replace Umberto Ferrara and&nbsp;Giacomo Naldi respectively, who Sinner parted ways with before his US Open triumph, after the two positive doping tests in March.&nbsp;

Sinner had explained that the slight traces of clostebol had originated from a spray used by a member of his staff to treat a cut finger.

The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) accepted the explanation, leading to a furious backlash from players including Australian Nick Kyrgios.

Panichi notably worked with compatriot Fabio Fognini, German Angelique Kerber, and China's Li Na, before being part of Djokovic's team from 2019 to earlier this year.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Jannik Sinner has hired Novak Djokovic's former fitness coach Marco Panichi in the wake of the world number one being cleared despite testing positive twice for a banned substance.

Jannik Sinner has hired Novak Djokovic's former fitness coach Marco Panichi in the wake of the world number one being cleared despite testing positive twice for a banned substance. "Welcome to the team," Sinner wrote on social media on Monday alongside a photo of himself with fellow Italian Panichi and newly-recruited physiotherapist Ulises Badio. Also Read: Jude Bellingham, Aurelien Tchouameni back for Real Madrid's Champions League opener, confirms Carlo Ancelotti The pair replace Umberto Ferrara and Giacomo Naldi respectively, who Sinner parted ways with before his US Open triumph, after the two positive doping tests in March. Sinner had explained that the slight traces of clostebol had originated from a spray used by a member of his staff to treat a cut finger. The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) accepted the explanation, leading to a furious backlash from players including Australian Nick Kyrgios. Panichi notably worked with compatriot Fabio Fognini, German Angelique Kerber, and China's Li Na, before being part of Djokovic's team from 2019 to earlier this year. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Jannik Sinner hires Novak Djokovic's former fitness coach after doping incident

Newly-crowned US Open champion Jannik Sinner admitted Sunday that the controversy over his two failed drugs tests "was and is still on my mind". The 23-year-old Italian defeated Taylor Fritz in straight sets to win his second Grand Slam title to add to his first in Australia in January.

However, his path to victory was accompanied by questions over the affair which saw him twice test positive for banned substance clostebol in March. He escaped a lengthy ban when the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) found he was not guilty of wrongdoing after he had been inadvertently contaminated by his physio.

The Italian sacked physio Giacomo Naldi and trainer Umberto Ferrara, citing a loss of confidence in them.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-tennis-jannik-sinner-crashes-taylor-fritzs-american-party-to-win-us-open-2024-756977">Tennis: Jannik Sinner crashes Taylor Fritz's American party to win US Open 2024</a>

The decision to clear the Italian was met with scepticism by some players in the locker room who suggested that Sinner had benefitted from preferential treatment due to his status in the sport.

"It was and it's still on my mind. It's not that it's gone, but when I'm on the court, I try to focus about the game, I try to handle the situation the best possible way, communication with the team, in the practice courts," said the world number one.

"It was not easy, that's for sure, but I tried to stay focused, with which I guess I've done a great job."

Sinner admitted that the case had cast a cloud over him but he believes that fans and most players have been supportive.

"Obviously, it was very difficult for me to enjoy in certain moments," he added.

"Also how I behaved or how I walked on the court in certain tournaments before, it was not the same as I used to be, so whoever knows me better, they know that something was wrong.

"But during this tournament, slowly I restarted to feel a little bit more how I am as a person. Doesn't really matter how or what the result was. So this tournament, for sure, helped me a little bit."

Despite the controversy, Sinner is enjoying a stellar season.

He has captured six titles, racking up 55 wins against just five losses.

His triumph on Sunday allowed him become the first man since Guillermo Vilas in 1977 to win his first two Grand Slam titles in the same season.

Sinner believes that Sunday's win in New York has more impact on him than his Australian Open breakthrough.

"Melbourne was a kind of a relief because you never know if you can win one Grand Slam or not, but when you win one, you know that you can do it," he said. "Here it was difficult because also the pre-tournament circumstances weren't easy. I felt like that I have grown match by match and that my confidence level went higher and higher at some point.

"It was different because I had more pressure this time than in Australia. I'm happy how I handled this one. Yeah, I'm just excited to have this trophy with me."

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Newly-crowned US Open champion Jannik Sinner admitted Sunday that the controversy over his two failed drugs tests "was and is still on my mind". The 23-year-old Italian defeated Taylor Fritz in straight sets to win his second Grand Slam title to add to his first in Australia in January.

Newly-crowned US Open champion Jannik Sinner admitted Sunday that the controversy over his two failed drugs tests "was and is still on my mind". The 23-year-old Italian defeated Taylor Fritz in straight sets to win his second Grand Slam title to add to his first in Australia in January. However, his path to victory was accompanied by questions over the affair which saw him twice test positive for banned substance clostebol in March. He escaped a lengthy ban when the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) found he was not guilty of wrongdoing after he had been inadvertently contaminated by his physio. The Italian sacked physio Giacomo Naldi and trainer Umberto Ferrara, citing a loss of confidence in them. ALSO READ: Tennis: Jannik Sinner crashes Taylor Fritz's American party to win US Open 2024 The decision to clear the Italian was met with scepticism by some players in the locker room who suggested that Sinner had benefitted from preferential treatment due to his status in the sport. "It was and it's still on my mind. It's not that it's gone, but when I'm on the court, I try to focus about the game, I try to handle the situation the best possible way, communication with the team, in the practice courts," said the world number one. "It was not easy, that's for sure, but I tried to stay focused, with which I guess I've done a great job." Sinner admitted that the case had cast a cloud over him but he believes that fans and most players have been supportive. "Obviously, it was very difficult for me to enjoy in certain moments," he added. "Also how I behaved or how I walked on the court in certain tournaments before, it was not the same as I used to be, so whoever knows me better, they know that something was wrong. "But during this tournament, slowly I restarted to feel a little bit more how I am as a person. Doesn't really matter how or what the result was. So this tournament, for sure, helped me a little bit." Despite the controversy, Sinner is enjoying a stellar season. He has captured six titles, racking up 55 wins against just five losses. His triumph on Sunday allowed him become the first man since Guillermo Vilas in 1977 to win his first two Grand Slam titles in the same season. Sinner believes that Sunday's win in New York has more impact on him than his Australian Open breakthrough. "Melbourne was a kind of a relief because you never know if you can win one Grand Slam or not, but when you win one, you know that you can do it," he said. "Here it was difficult because also the pre-tournament circumstances weren't easy. I felt like that I have grown match by match and that my confidence level went higher and higher at some point. "It was different because I had more pressure this time than in Australia. I'm happy how I handled this one. Yeah, I'm just excited to have this trophy with me." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Jannik Sinner admits ‘thinking about drug controversy’ in US Open triumph

Jannik Sinner produced a brutal display of baseline power as he became the first Italian man to win the U.S. Open with a 6-3 6-4 7-5 win over American Taylor Fritz in the final on Sunday.

Sinner held aloft his arms in celebration after breaking Fritz to clinch the title and cheers rang around Arthur Ashe Stadium, even though home fans had hoped to see Fritz end a 21-year U.S. men's Grand Slam drought.

Sinner was under a cloud of controversy at the start of the tournament after revelations that he tested positive twice for an anabolic agent in March but avoided a ban. An independent tribunal accepted his claim that the positive tests were the result of an unintentional contamination.

The top seed blocked out the furore in New York and with the win claimed his second Grand Slam title after winning the Australian Open earlier this year.

"We just went day-by-day, trying to practice well, even on the days off, believing in ourselves which is the most important. I understood, especially in this tournament, how important the mental part is in this sport," said Sinner.

"I would like to thank everyone for being so fair in this amazing arena. It was a huge pleasure."

Fritz got off to a dreadful start when he handed Sinner the break with an unforced error in the first game but settled his nerves, breaking back in the fourth game and surviving a 23-shot rally - the longest of the match - to save break point in the fifth.

But it was only a matter of time before the Italian would hit his stride and he broke the 12th seeded American with a perfectly placed drop shot in the seventh game.

Fritz dropped his serve again on set point when he sent a backhand beyond the baseline, one of 34 unforced errors that cost him dearly across the match.

The fired up home crowd that included pop megastar Taylor Swift tried to lift Fritz with chants of "USA!" in the second set, as he worked to get some traction in his first major final.

<h2>Piled on the misery</h2>

However, the momentum swung in Sinner’s direction as he broke Fritz on set point from the baseline, sending a sublime backhand down the line that the American was unable to return.

He piled further misery on Fritz when he clawed back from triple break point down in the opening game of the third set, holding his serve with an overhead smash, a fine effort that even the U.S. fans applauded.

Fritz clung on and even went up a break but was left smacking his racket onto the court in frustration when he hit a volley into the net to let Sinner break back in the 10th.

Sinner broke for a sixth time in the contest to wrap up the win, with Fritz swiping a forehand into the net on match point.

"Here was difficult because also the pretournament circumstances weren't easy," said Sinner, who climbed the stands to celebrate with his team as fans shouted "Bravo!" around him.

"I felt like that I have grown, you know, match by match and that my confidence level went higher and higher."

With U.S. great Andre Agassi on court for the presentation ceremony, Fritz told the crowd: "I know we’ve been waiting for a champion for a long time so I’m sorry I couldn’t get it done this time. But I’m gonna keep working and hopefully I’ll get it the next time."

It was a fresh disappointment for U.S. fans, after home hope Jessica Pegula lost to Aryna Sabalenka in the women's final.

The win capped a blockbuster year for Sinner, who came back from two sets down to triumph at Melbourne Park and won in Miami and Cincinnati.

The world number one leaves New York with an impressive 55-5 win-loss record for the year, leaving rivals in his wake as Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz crashed out early.

It was not all good news for Sinner, however, as it became clear the doping controversy could linger well after he leaves, as he continued to answer questions about the saga as he sat at a post-match press conference with the trophy.

Some members of the media and his own fellow players have alleged a double standard in how he was treated and Sinner said he had difficulty enjoying the tournament at times.

"What I can say is that the general reaction of the players was quite positive, even when things came out. Then there have been, of course, some different voices, but this is in everything," he said.

"That's why you have, as I said before, the people close to you, these are the people who knows what was going on and what I and my team went through."

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Jannik Sinner produced a brutal display of baseline power as he became the first Italian man to win the U.S. Open with a 6-3 6-4 7-5 win over American Taylor Fritz in the final on Sunday.

Jannik Sinner produced a brutal display of baseline power as he became the first Italian man to win the U.S. Open with a 6-3 6-4 7-5 win over American Taylor Fritz in the final on Sunday. Sinner held aloft his arms in celebration after breaking Fritz to clinch the title and cheers rang around Arthur Ashe Stadium, even though home fans had hoped to see Fritz end a 21-year U.S. men's Grand Slam drought. Sinner was under a cloud of controversy at the start of the tournament after revelations that he tested positive twice for an anabolic agent in March but avoided a ban. An independent tribunal accepted his claim that the positive tests were the result of an unintentional contamination. The top seed blocked out the furore in New York and with the win claimed his second Grand Slam title after winning the Australian Open earlier this year. "We just went day-by-day, trying to practice well, even on the days off, believing in ourselves which is the most important. I understood, especially in this tournament, how important the mental part is in this sport," said Sinner. "I would like to thank everyone for being so fair in this amazing arena. It was a huge pleasure." Fritz got off to a dreadful start when he handed Sinner the break with an unforced error in the first game but settled his nerves, breaking back in the fourth game and surviving a 23-shot rally - the longest of the match - to save break point in the fifth. But it was only a matter of time before the Italian would hit his stride and he broke the 12th seeded American with a perfectly placed drop shot in the seventh game. Fritz dropped his serve again on set point when he sent a backhand beyond the baseline, one of 34 unforced errors that cost him dearly across the match. The fired up home crowd that included pop megastar Taylor Swift tried to lift Fritz with chants of "USA!" in the second set, as he worked to get some traction in his first major final. Piled on the misery However, the momentum swung in Sinner’s direction as he broke Fritz on set point from the baseline, sending a sublime backhand down the line that the American was unable to return. He piled further misery on Fritz when he clawed back from triple break point down in the opening game of the third set, holding his serve with an overhead smash, a fine effort that even the U.S. fans applauded. Fritz clung on and even went up a break but was left smacking his racket onto the court in frustration when he hit a volley into the net to let Sinner break back in the 10th. Sinner broke for a sixth time in the contest to wrap up the win, with Fritz swiping a forehand into the net on match point. "Here was difficult because also the pretournament circumstances weren't easy," said Sinner, who climbed the stands to celebrate with his team as fans shouted "Bravo!" around him. "I felt like that I have grown, you know, match by match and that my confidence level went higher and higher." With U.S. great Andre Agassi on court for the presentation ceremony, Fritz told the crowd: "I know we’ve been waiting for a champion for a long time so I’m sorry I couldn’t get it done this time. But I’m gonna keep working and hopefully I’ll get it the next time." It was a fresh disappointment for U.S. fans, after home hope Jessica Pegula lost to Aryna Sabalenka in the women's final. The win capped a blockbuster year for Sinner, who came back from two sets down to triumph at Melbourne Park and won in Miami and Cincinnati. The world number one leaves New York with an impressive 55-5 win-loss record for the year, leaving rivals in his wake as Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz crashed out early. It was not all good news for Sinner, however, as it became clear the doping controversy could linger well after he leaves, as he continued to answer questions about the saga as he sat at a post-match press conference with the trophy. Some members of the media and his own fellow players have alleged a double standard in how he was treated and Sinner said he had difficulty enjoying the tournament at times. "What I can say is that the general reaction of the players was quite positive, even when things came out. Then there have been, of course, some different voices, but this is in everything," he said. "That's why you have, as I said before, the people close to you, these are the people who knows what was going on and what I and my team went through." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Tennis: Jannik Sinner crashes Taylor Fritz's American party to win US Open 2024

Jannik Sinner will hope to block out a rocking home crowd on Sunday when he faces Taylor Fritz in the U.S. Open final at Flushing Meadows, where the 12th seed will be bidding to become the first American man in 21 years to win a Grand Slam singles title.

U.S. fans had become accustomed to celebrating the triumphs of American men for decades, with the likes of Jimmy Connors, John McEnroe, Jim Courier, Pete Sampras and Andre Agassi collecting 41 slams between them from the 1970s to the early 2000s.

But since Andy Roddick won his sole major on Arthur Ashe Stadium in 2003, American men have failed to win any of the four majors.

With the barren run lasting for 82 consecutive slams, New York fans will be turning up the volume to deafening levels on Sunday as they get behind Fritz and hope he can finally snap that losing streak.

"I'm gonna accept that. I have my team and my people who are close to me," said Italian top-seed Sinner. "In my mind, I know that there are many people watching from home from Italy, and it's just take some support from them."

Sinner has enjoyed an extraordinary year with a major breakthrough at the Australian Open and was in top form as he won the Cincinnati tune-up tournament last month.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-tennis-aryna-sabalenka-beats-american-jessica-pegula-in-marathon-us-open-final-to-win-title-756777">Tennis: Aryna Sabalenka beats American Jessica Pegula in marathon US Open final to win title</a>

But he did not get the hero's welcome a U.S. Open top seed usually enjoys when they arrive in New York, with a doping saga overshadowing his on-court exploits.

Days before the tournament began, the International Tennis Integrity Agency said that he tested positive twice for an anabolic agent in March but avoided a ban when an independent tribunal accepted his claim that the positive tests were the result of unintentional contamination.

Some players and members of the media cried foul but Sinner tuned out the complaints as he marched through the men's draw, downing former champion Daniil Medvedev in the quarter-finals before beating Briton Jack Draper in a chaotic semi-final.

"We went just day by day, really, with not so many expectations. Trying to find my game, trying to find our rhythm," said Sinner. "Just trying to find confidence throughout the days."

The biggest question mark over his chances now is whether he damaged his wrist following a fall during the semi-final, as he braced himself with his left hand when he fell to the court.

"The physio (loosened) it up very fast on the court, so after I felt OK in the beginning. Then, after, it went away by playing, which is good," Sinner told reporters.

He will be ready to deploy all the weapons in his arsenal against the 12th seed Fritz, who wants to defy the odds again after a convincing run through Flushing Meadows.

Fritz beat former finalists Casper Ruud and Alexander Zverev en route to the all-American semi-final, where he outlasted Frances Tiafoe.

He possesses one of the most lethal serves in the sport and sent over 75 aces across the tournament.

He is also brimming with confidence that he can end the U.S. men's major drought on Sunday, with his career head-to-head against Sinner deadlocked at 1-1.

"I've always enjoyed playing him," said Fritz. "I have a feeling I'm going to come out and play really well and win. When I play good tennis, I think that level is good enough to win."

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Jannik Sinner will hope to block out a rocking home crowd on Sunday when he faces Taylor Fritz in the U.S. Open final at Flushing Meadows, where the 12th seed will be bidding to become the first American man in 21 years to win a Grand Slam singles title.

Jannik Sinner will hope to block out a rocking home crowd on Sunday when he faces Taylor Fritz in the U.S. Open final at Flushing Meadows, where the 12th seed will be bidding to become the first American man in 21 years to win a Grand Slam singles title. U.S. fans had become accustomed to celebrating the triumphs of American men for decades, with the likes of Jimmy Connors, John McEnroe, Jim Courier, Pete Sampras and Andre Agassi collecting 41 slams between them from the 1970s to the early 2000s. But since Andy Roddick won his sole major on Arthur Ashe Stadium in 2003, American men have failed to win any of the four majors. With the barren run lasting for 82 consecutive slams, New York fans will be turning up the volume to deafening levels on Sunday as they get behind Fritz and hope he can finally snap that losing streak. "I'm gonna accept that. I have my team and my people who are close to me," said Italian top-seed Sinner. "In my mind, I know that there are many people watching from home from Italy, and it's just take some support from them." Sinner has enjoyed an extraordinary year with a major breakthrough at the Australian Open and was in top form as he won the Cincinnati tune-up tournament last month. ALSO READ: Tennis: Aryna Sabalenka beats American Jessica Pegula in marathon US Open final to win title But he did not get the hero's welcome a U.S. Open top seed usually enjoys when they arrive in New York, with a doping saga overshadowing his on-court exploits. Days before the tournament began, the International Tennis Integrity Agency said that he tested positive twice for an anabolic agent in March but avoided a ban when an independent tribunal accepted his claim that the positive tests were the result of unintentional contamination. Some players and members of the media cried foul but Sinner tuned out the complaints as he marched through the men's draw, downing former champion Daniil Medvedev in the quarter-finals before beating Briton Jack Draper in a chaotic semi-final. "We went just day by day, really, with not so many expectations. Trying to find my game, trying to find our rhythm," said Sinner. "Just trying to find confidence throughout the days." The biggest question mark over his chances now is whether he damaged his wrist following a fall during the semi-final, as he braced himself with his left hand when he fell to the court. "The physio (loosened) it up very fast on the court, so after I felt OK in the beginning. Then, after, it went away by playing, which is good," Sinner told reporters. He will be ready to deploy all the weapons in his arsenal against the 12th seed Fritz, who wants to defy the odds again after a convincing run through Flushing Meadows. Fritz beat former finalists Casper Ruud and Alexander Zverev en route to the all-American semi-final, where he outlasted Frances Tiafoe. He possesses one of the most lethal serves in the sport and sent over 75 aces across the tournament. He is also brimming with confidence that he can end the U.S. men's major drought on Sunday, with his career head-to-head against Sinner deadlocked at 1-1. "I've always enjoyed playing him," said Fritz. "I have a feeling I'm going to come out and play really well and win. When I play good tennis, I think that level is good enough to win." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Jannik Sinner plans to crash Taylor Fritz’s American party in US Open Final

Taylor Fritz became the first American man since 2009 to reach a Grand Slam final on Friday, setting up a US Open title showdown against world number one Jannik Sinner.

Fritz, the world number 12, twice fought back to defeat compatriot Frances Tiafoe 4-6, 7-5, 4-6, 6-4, 6-1 in his semi-final.

Australian Open champion Sinner became the first Italian man to make the New York final with a 7-5, 7-6 (7/3), 6-2 win over an ailing Jack Draper of Britain.

"He overwhelmed me at the start and I was freaking out a little," said 26-year-old Fritz after securing victory with a 16th ace.

"I just told myself to stay in it, hold serve and apply scoreboard pressure.

"I did all I could to stay in it. If I hadn't have done that I'd regret it forever. In the final, I will come out and give it everything."

Andy Roddick was the last American to make a men's singles final at the Slams at Wimbledon in 2009. He was also the last man from the country to capture a major title when he won the 2003 US Open.

Fritz was just five years old at the time.

Tiafoe was the better player for large parts of the semi-final but after dumping a lazy drop shot into the net to surrender the fourth set, his game fell apart.

In a 27-minute final set, Tiafoe won just nine points as he slumped to a second US Open semi-final loss in his last three visits.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mc-mary-kom-sania-mirza-come-together-to-motivate-emerging-sporting-talents-756550">MC Mary Kom, Sania Mirza come together to motivate emerging sporting talents</a>

Earlier, in a gruelling three-hour match, Draper, the first British man in the semi-finals since Andy Murray won the title in 2012, was undone by 10 double faults and 43 unforced errors.

He also vomited on the court, blaming anxiety for the illness.

"Jack and I know each other very well, we are great friends off court," said Sinner, who unleashed 43 winners in the match where he also injured his wrist in a nasty fall.

"It was a very physical match. He's so tough to beat so I'm excited to be in the final."

The 23-year-old Sinner added: "In the final, it will be a very tough challenge. I'm happy to be in that position because if you are in the final on a Sunday it means you are doing an amazing job."

World number 25 Draper vowed to work on overcoming his anxiety which sabotaged his hopes on Friday.

"When you play the top players, the intensity is different. It's a step up. It was a big occasion for me. I definitely felt more nerves around," he said.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Taylor Fritz became the first American man since 2009 to reach a Grand Slam final on Friday, setting up a US Open title showdown against world number one Jannik Sinner.

Taylor Fritz became the first American man since 2009 to reach a Grand Slam final on Friday, setting up a US Open title showdown against world number one Jannik Sinner. Fritz, the world number 12, twice fought back to defeat compatriot Frances Tiafoe 4-6, 7-5, 4-6, 6-4, 6-1 in his semi-final. Australian Open champion Sinner became the first Italian man to make the New York final with a 7-5, 7-6 (7/3), 6-2 win over an ailing Jack Draper of Britain. "He overwhelmed me at the start and I was freaking out a little," said 26-year-old Fritz after securing victory with a 16th ace. "I just told myself to stay in it, hold serve and apply scoreboard pressure. "I did all I could to stay in it. If I hadn't have done that I'd regret it forever. In the final, I will come out and give it everything." Andy Roddick was the last American to make a men's singles final at the Slams at Wimbledon in 2009. He was also the last man from the country to capture a major title when he won the 2003 US Open. Fritz was just five years old at the time. Tiafoe was the better player for large parts of the semi-final but after dumping a lazy drop shot into the net to surrender the fourth set, his game fell apart. In a 27-minute final set, Tiafoe won just nine points as he slumped to a second US Open semi-final loss in his last three visits. ALSO READ: MC Mary Kom, Sania Mirza come together to motivate emerging sporting talents Earlier, in a gruelling three-hour match, Draper, the first British man in the semi-finals since Andy Murray won the title in 2012, was undone by 10 double faults and 43 unforced errors. He also vomited on the court, blaming anxiety for the illness. "Jack and I know each other very well, we are great friends off court," said Sinner, who unleashed 43 winners in the match where he also injured his wrist in a nasty fall. "It was a very physical match. He's so tough to beat so I'm excited to be in the final." The 23-year-old Sinner added: "In the final, it will be a very tough challenge. I'm happy to be in that position because if you are in the final on a Sunday it means you are doing an amazing job." World number 25 Draper vowed to work on overcoming his anxiety which sabotaged his hopes on Friday. "When you play the top players, the intensity is different. It's a step up. It was a big occasion for me. I definitely felt more nerves around," he said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US Open 2024: Taylor Fritz ends America’s wait for a Grand Slam final, sets up summit clash with Jannik Sinner

World number one Jannik Sinner stormed into the US Open semifinals with a four-set win over Russia's Daniil Medvedev on Thursday (Sep 5). Sinner, thus, reached his first-ever US Open semifinal with a&nbsp;6-2, 1-6, 6-1, 6-4 win, at the Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York,&nbsp;and will now lock horns with the 25th-ranked Jake Draper, of Britain, for a place in the final.&nbsp;

Sinner started with a lead courtesy of a 6-2 win in the opening set, where Medvedev looked rusty and committed as many as 15 unforced errors as opposed to the Italian's six. Medvedev, however, bounced back in style and closed the second set&nbsp;with a double break of his own to level the quarterfinal. Nonetheless, Sinner came back strongly and won the third set in half an hour before closing out the game with a 6-4 win in the fourth and penultimate set.

After the contest, Sinner said, "It was very tough, I knew it would be very physical. It was strange in the first two sets, whoever got the break started to roll."

The Italian further opined on his next opponent Draper and stated,&nbsp;"We are good friends off the court. He's having an incredible tournament and hasn't dropped a set."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-jessica-pegula-stuns-iga-swiatek-at-us-open-to-enter-semis-jack-draper-in-last-four-755979">Jessica Pegula stuns Iga Swiatek at US Open to enter semis, Jack Draper in last-four</a>

Sinner, the Australian Open 2024 winner, is surely the favourite now at the US Open. He, however,&nbsp;won't take anything lightly ahead of the semifinals as the US Open has provided enough upsets in both men's and women's singles. In the men's category, the likes of Novak Djokovic, Carlos Alcaraz were ousted before the fourth-round. While Djokovic, who won gold in the Paris Olympics, was stunned in the third-round, by Alexei Popyrin of Australia, Alcaraz was shown the exit door by Dutchman&nbsp;Botic van de Zandschulp during his second-round match.

Even in the women's singles, world number one Iga Swiatek lost to USA's Jessica Pegula in the quarterfinal on Wednesday (Sep 4).

World number one Jannik Sinner stormed into the US Open semifinals with a four-set win over Russia's Daniil Medvedev on Thursday (Sep 5). Sinner, thus, reached his first-ever US Open semifinal with a 6-2, 1-6, 6-1, 6-4 win, at the Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York, and will now lock horns with the 25th-ranked Jake Draper, of Britain, for a place in the final.

World number one Jannik Sinner stormed into the US Open semifinals with a four-set win over Russia's Daniil Medvedev on Thursday (Sep 5). Sinner, thus, reached his first-ever US Open semifinal with a 6-2, 1-6, 6-1, 6-4 win, at the Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York, and will now lock horns with the 25th-ranked Jake Draper, of Britain, for a place in the final. Sinner started with a lead courtesy of a 6-2 win in the opening set, where Medvedev looked rusty and committed as many as 15 unforced errors as opposed to the Italian's six. Medvedev, however, bounced back in style and closed the second set with a double break of his own to level the quarterfinal. Nonetheless, Sinner came back strongly and won the third set in half an hour before closing out the game with a 6-4 win in the fourth and penultimate set. After the contest, Sinner said, "It was very tough, I knew it would be very physical. It was strange in the first two sets, whoever got the break started to roll." The Italian further opined on his next opponent Draper and stated, "We are good friends off the court. He's having an incredible tournament and hasn't dropped a set." Also read: Jessica Pegula stuns Iga Swiatek at US Open to enter semis, Jack Draper in last-four Sinner, the Australian Open 2024 winner, is surely the favourite now at the US Open. He, however, won't take anything lightly ahead of the semifinals as the US Open has provided enough upsets in both men's and women's singles. In the men's category, the likes of Novak Djokovic, Carlos Alcaraz were ousted before the fourth-round. While Djokovic, who won gold in the Paris Olympics, was stunned in the third-round, by Alexei Popyrin of Australia, Alcaraz was shown the exit door by Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp during his second-round match. Even in the women's singles, world number one Iga Swiatek lost to USA's Jessica Pegula in the quarterfinal on Wednesday (Sep 4).

World number one Jannik Sinner defeats Daniil Medvedev to reach first US Open semifinals

jannik-sinner

Jannik Sinner, News on Jannik Sinner, stories on Jannik Sinner, articles on Jannik Sinner, Jannik Sinner stories at Wion, Jannik Sinner news, Jannik Sinner latest news

jannik sinner