World No. 1 Jannik Sinner of Italy needed three sets to overcome Tallon Griekspoor of the Netherlands 6-7 (8), 6-3, 6-2 in the first round of the Terra Wortmann Open on Tuesday in Halle, Germany. Sinner hit 15 aces to Griekspoor's 11 and saved all four break points he faced while going 3-for-4 on opportunities to break his opponent's serve. No. 2 seed Alexander Zverev of Germany also had to rally to beat countryman Oscar Otte 6-7 (5), 6-3, 6-4. No. 4 seed Andrey Rublev of Russia wasn't as fortunate, falling to Marcos Giron 6-4, 7-6 (5).

No. 6 seed Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece survived a pair of tiebreakers, saving a set point in the first set, to defeat German wild card Henri Squire 7-6 (7), 7-6 (2). No. 7 seed Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan, Christopher Eubanks, Arthur Fils of France and Australian qualifier James Duckworth also won in straight sets.

Cinch Championships

No. 1 seed Carlos Alcaraz of Spain advanced while three seeded players were shown the door in opening-round action in London. Alcaraz won 13 of 15 net points while defeating Francisco Cerundolo of Argentina 6-1, 7-5. Italy's Lorenzo Musetti stunned Australian No. 2 seed Alex de Minaur 1-6, 6-4, 6-2, finishing with a 7-0 edge in aces and saving 8 of 12 break points along the way.

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French qualifier Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard ousted No. 6 Ben Shelton 6-3, 7-6 (3), and Italy's Matteo Arnaldi defeated No. 8 Ugo Humbert of France 3-6, 6-1, 7-6 (6), saving a match point down 6-5 in the third-set tiebreaker before completing the upset.

In the draw as a wild card, Andy Murray of Great Britain fought past Australian qualifier Alexei Popyrin 6-3, 3-6, 6-3. Other winners Tuesday included No. 4 seed Taylor Fritz, No. 5 seed Tommy Paul, Sebastian Korda, Brandon Nakashima, Brits Jack Draper and Billy Harris and Chile's Alejandro Tabilo

World No. 1 Jannik Sinner of Italy needed three sets to overcome Tallon Griekspoor of the Netherlands 6-7 (8), 6-3, 6-2 in the first round of the Terra Wortmann Open on Tuesday in Halle, Germany.

World No. 1 Jannik Sinner of Italy needed three sets to overcome Tallon Griekspoor of the Netherlands 6-7 (8), 6-3, 6-2 in the first round of the Terra Wortmann Open on Tuesday in Halle, Germany. Sinner hit 15 aces to Griekspoor's 11 and saved all four break points he faced while going 3-for-4 on opportunities to break his opponent's serve. No. 2 seed Alexander Zverev of Germany also had to rally to beat countryman Oscar Otte 6-7 (5), 6-3, 6-4. No. 4 seed Andrey Rublev of Russia wasn't as fortunate, falling to Marcos Giron 6-4, 7-6 (5). No. 6 seed Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece survived a pair of tiebreakers, saving a set point in the first set, to defeat German wild card Henri Squire 7-6 (7), 7-6 (2). No. 7 seed Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan, Christopher Eubanks, Arthur Fils of France and Australian qualifier James Duckworth also won in straight sets. Cinch Championships No. 1 seed Carlos Alcaraz of Spain advanced while three seeded players were shown the door in opening-round action in London. Alcaraz won 13 of 15 net points while defeating Francisco Cerundolo of Argentina 6-1, 7-5. Italy's Lorenzo Musetti stunned Australian No. 2 seed Alex de Minaur 1-6, 6-4, 6-2, finishing with a 7-0 edge in aces and saving 8 of 12 break points along the way. Also read: Baseball legend Willie Mays, all-around great of America's pastime, dead at 93 French qualifier Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard ousted No. 6 Ben Shelton 6-3, 7-6 (3), and Italy's Matteo Arnaldi defeated No. 8 Ugo Humbert of France 3-6, 6-1, 7-6 (6), saving a match point down 6-5 in the third-set tiebreaker before completing the upset. In the draw as a wild card, Andy Murray of Great Britain fought past Australian qualifier Alexei Popyrin 6-3, 3-6, 6-3. Other winners Tuesday included No. 4 seed Taylor Fritz, No. 5 seed Tommy Paul, Sebastian Korda, Brandon Nakashima, Brits Jack Draper and Billy Harris and Chile's Alejandro Tabilo

ATP roundup: World number 1 Jannik Sinner overcomes Tallon Griekspoor in R1 of Terra Wortmann Open

Jannik Sinner received the World No.1 trophy from ATP Chairman Andrea Gaudenzi. The 22-year-old dethroned 24-time Grand Slam Champion Novak Djokovic and rose to the top of the ranking for the first time on Monday. Sinner is the first Italian to reach number one in singles.

Sinner receives ATP World no.1 Trophy

Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz has taken a giant step towards completing a career Grand Slam after he overcame Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner in a marathon French Open men’s singles semifinal. The over four-hour-long contest played on Friday (June 7)&nbsp;saw Alcaraz win 2-6, 6-3, 3-6, 6-4, 6-3 to book a place in the final of the French Open 2024. He will face the winner of the&nbsp;Sunday’s final between&nbsp;Casper Ruud and Alexander Zverev.

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<h2>Alcaraz in maiden French Open final</h2>

In one of the standout matches in the French Open this season, both Alcaraz and Sinner dropped only two sets combined before the semifinal. However, it was the Italian who drew the first blood in the match breaking Alcaraz three times in the opening set. While the Spaniard made a comeback with a break back, it was not enough as he won the opening set 6-2. However, the defending Wimbledon champion came roaring back to win the second set 6-3.

Sinner&nbsp;again struck&nbsp;with another decisive break in the third set which laid the platform for the match. He bagged the third set 3-6 and was a set away from another Grand Slam final, having earlier beaten Novak Djokovic in the Australian Open semis in January.&nbsp;

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Alcaraz, however, was not done and broke the Italian’s serve when he was serving to stay in the fourth set at 5-4. Alcaraz then had no issues in settling the contest in the fifth set where he was the dominant force.

The win also means that Spain continues to have a representation in the final of the French Open despite the absence of Rafael Nadal. The great Spanish player was knocked out in the first round by Alexander Zverev, who could eventually face Alcaraz in the final. The German, also the defending Olympic champion, will face Casper Ruud in the other semifinal on Sunday.

Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz has taken a giant step towards completing a career Grand Slam after he overcame Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner in a marathon French Open men’s singles semifinal.

Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz has taken a giant step towards completing a career Grand Slam after he overcame Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner in a marathon French Open men’s singles semifinal. The over four-hour-long contest played on Friday (June 7) saw Alcaraz win 2-6, 6-3, 3-6, 6-4, 6-3 to book a place in the final of the French Open 2024. He will face the winner of the Sunday’s final between Casper Ruud and Alexander Zverev. CARLOS ALCARAZ WINS THIS ONE! #RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/2NRYF16tZO — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 7, 2024 × Alcaraz in maiden French Open final In one of the standout matches in the French Open this season, both Alcaraz and Sinner dropped only two sets combined before the semifinal. However, it was the Italian who drew the first blood in the match breaking Alcaraz three times in the opening set. While the Spaniard made a comeback with a break back, it was not enough as he won the opening set 6-2. However, the defending Wimbledon champion came roaring back to win the second set 6-3. Sinner again struck with another decisive break in the third set which laid the platform for the match. He bagged the third set 3-6 and was a set away from another Grand Slam final, having earlier beaten Novak Djokovic in the Australian Open semis in January. ALSO READ | Premier League: Chelsea complete first transfer of summer as Tosin Adarabioyo signed for free from Fulham Alcaraz, however, was not done and broke the Italian’s serve when he was serving to stay in the fourth set at 5-4. Alcaraz then had no issues in settling the contest in the fifth set where he was the dominant force. The win also means that Spain continues to have a representation in the final of the French Open despite the absence of Rafael Nadal. The great Spanish player was knocked out in the first round by Alexander Zverev, who could eventually face Alcaraz in the final. The German, also the defending Olympic champion, will face Casper Ruud in the other semifinal on Sunday.

French Open: Carlos Alcaraz overcomes Jannik Sinner in marathon contest to reach maiden final

Carlos Alcaraz blazed into the semi-finals of the French Open on Tuesday (June 4) when he put on a clinical performance to beat former Roland Garros runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-3 7-6(3) 6-4.

Alcaraz dropped only three of his first-serve points in the first set and held his nerve through the tiebreak to halt the Greek's mid-match comeback, before delivering one of his superb dropshots on match point.

The Spaniard assured the crowd at Roland Garros that his meeting with number two seed Jannik Sinner would not disappoint, with the Italian playing at the top of his game.

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The pair are evenly split with their career head-to-head record at 4-4. Alcaraz won their most recent meeting, a semi-final match at Indian Wells this year.

"You have to run like it is a marathon, you know, side-to-side... Everything he does, he does it perfectly," Alcaraz told reporters of playing Sinner.

"I think it is the hardest thing to face Jannik. At the same time I love that. I love this kind of matches."

Carlos Alcaraz blazed into the semi-finals of the French Open on Tuesday (June 4) when he put on a clinical performance to beat former Roland Garros runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-3 7-6(3) 6-4.

Carlos Alcaraz blazed into the semi-finals of the French Open on Tuesday (June 4) when he put on a clinical performance to beat former Roland Garros runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-3 7-6(3) 6-4. Alcaraz dropped only three of his first-serve points in the first set and held his nerve through the tiebreak to halt the Greek's mid-match comeback, before delivering one of his superb dropshots on match point. The Spaniard assured the crowd at Roland Garros that his meeting with number two seed Jannik Sinner would not disappoint, with the Italian playing at the top of his game. ALSO READ | Manchester City sue Premier League over financial rules ahead of 115 charges hearing The pair are evenly split with their career head-to-head record at 4-4. Alcaraz won their most recent meeting, a semi-final match at Indian Wells this year. "You have to run like it is a marathon, you know, side-to-side... Everything he does, he does it perfectly," Alcaraz told reporters of playing Sinner. "I think it is the hardest thing to face Jannik. At the same time I love that. I love this kind of matches."

French Open: Carlos Alcaraz downs Stefanos Tsitsipas to set up semi-final showdown with Jannik Sinner

A place in the final of the French Open will be up for grabs on Friday (June 7) when Carlos Alcaraz takes on Italian Jannik Sinner in the semifinal clash. Sinner, who beat Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open to win the whole thing, will target back-to-back Grand Slam titles when he squares off against the defending Wimbledon champion. After beating Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-3, 7-6, 6-4 in an easy contest, Alcaraz spoke highly of his next opponent terming him the “best player in the world” at the moment.

<h2>Alcaraz full of praise for Sinner</h2>

"I think right now he's the best player in the world, the player who's playing the best tennis right now,” Alcaraz said after beating Stefanos Tsitsipas in the quarterfinal on Tuesday.

"We've played great matches, high level," said Alcaraz. "I'm grateful to have him on the tour, at this level because he pushes me to be my best level... to wake up in the morning to try to get better to try to beat him.

"It's going to be a really good challenge, I'm ready for that challenge. It's the match that everybody wants to watch."

"I'm sure he'll show his best tennis, I will as well, so let's see who's going to win," said Alcaraz.

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French Open 2024 will be significant as there will be a passing of the baton in men’s tennis. This year will be the first time in over two decades that neither Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic or Roger Federer will be part of the French Open semifinals.

Both Alcaraz and Sinner are hungry for success and have already achieved Grand Slam glory in their brief careers. While both will carry the baton of success in men’s tennis for time to come, on Friday only one can reach the final of the French Open.

While it will be a first semifinal appearance for Sinner in the French Open semis, Alcaraz will be playing his second having also reached the same stage in 2023. He then lost to Novak Djokovic in a four-set contest. But a win will see him get one step closer to the French Open title and could see him become just the fifth other player to lift the title in the last two decades. &nbsp;

A place in the final of the French Open will be up for grabs on Friday (June 7) when Carlos Alcaraz takes on Italian Jannik Sinner in the semifinal clash. Sinner, who beat Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open to win the whole thing, will target back-to-back Grand Slam titles when he squares off against the defending Wimbledon champion.

A place in the final of the French Open will be up for grabs on Friday (June 7) when Carlos Alcaraz takes on Italian Jannik Sinner in the semifinal clash. Sinner, who beat Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open to win the whole thing, will target back-to-back Grand Slam titles when he squares off against the defending Wimbledon champion. After beating Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-3, 7-6, 6-4 in an easy contest, Alcaraz spoke highly of his next opponent terming him the “best player in the world” at the moment. Alcaraz full of praise for Sinner "I think right now he's the best player in the world, the player who's playing the best tennis right now,” Alcaraz said after beating Stefanos Tsitsipas in the quarterfinal on Tuesday. "We've played great matches, high level," said Alcaraz. "I'm grateful to have him on the tour, at this level because he pushes me to be my best level... to wake up in the morning to try to get better to try to beat him. "It's going to be a really good challenge, I'm ready for that challenge. It's the match that everybody wants to watch." "I'm sure he'll show his best tennis, I will as well, so let's see who's going to win," said Alcaraz. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup 2024: Max O'Dowd half-century steers Netherlands past Nepal French Open 2024 will be significant as there will be a passing of the baton in men’s tennis. This year will be the first time in over two decades that neither Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic or Roger Federer will be part of the French Open semifinals. Both Alcaraz and Sinner are hungry for success and have already achieved Grand Slam glory in their brief careers. While both will carry the baton of success in men’s tennis for time to come, on Friday only one can reach the final of the French Open. While it will be a first semifinal appearance for Sinner in the French Open semis, Alcaraz will be playing his second having also reached the same stage in 2023. He then lost to Novak Djokovic in a four-set contest. But a win will see him get one step closer to the French Open title and could see him become just the fifth other player to lift the title in the last two decades.

French Open 2024: Carlos Alcaraz terms Jannik Sinner 'best in the world' ahead of semifinal clash

Jannik Sinner powered past Grigor Dimitrov in straight sets on Tuesday (Jun 4) to reach his first French Open semi-final, having struggled at the Grand Slam the past two years.&nbsp;

The Australian Open champion, who will become world number one next week after Novak Djokovic's withdrawal from the tournament, eased to a 6-2, 6-4, 7-6 (7/3) victory and will take on either Alcaraz or Stefanos Tsitsipas in the last four.

Sinner's achievement of becoming Italy's first number one in the sport was secured during his match, as the injury-enforced withdrawal of Djokovic was announced.

"What can I say?" said the 22-year-old.

"It's every player's dream to become number one in the world. On the other hand, seeing Novak retiring (from the tournament) is disappointing, so I wish him a speedy recovery."

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Sinner already knew that he could take the number-one berth by reaching the final at Roland Garros.

He has enjoyed a fine season, also winning the Rotterdam and Miami Opens in addition to his maiden Grand Slam title in Melbourne.

"I'm trying not to think about it too much as this has been a tournament I've struggled in the last couple of years so I'm very happy to be in the semi-finals," Sinner added.

"It's a special moment for me...for people watching in Italy. Let's see on Friday what I can do."

Sinner's win-loss record this year now stands at an impressive 33-2, his only two defeats this season coming against Alcaraz in the Indian Wells semi-finals and Tsitsipas in the Monte Carlo last four.

If Sinner is to reach a second successive major final, he will have to overcome Alcaraz, against whom he shares a 4-4 head-to-head record, or Tsitsipas, who he has lost to six times in nine meetings.

Alcaraz faces former Roland Garros runner-up Tsitsipas in Tuesday's night session.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-french-open-novak-djokovic-pulls-out-of-grand-slam-due-to-knee-injury-728724">Also read |&nbsp;Defending champion Novak Djokovic forced to withdraw from French Open</a>

<h2>Sinner dominates&nbsp;</h2>

Bulgarian 10th seed Dimitrov was playing in the quarter-finals for the first time on his 14th French Open appearance, and was largely outplayed despite a brief late rally.

Sinner eased to the opening set, breaking twice and losing just four points behind his serve.

He broke again in the first game of the second set and comfortably held from then on to move closer to the semis.

It was a similar story for much of the third, as Sinner set up the chance to serve for the match when leading 5-4, but Dimitrov finally put him under pressure to level the set.

The second seed gathered himself, though, to force a tie-break, which he dominated to add another career first on an already landmark day for himself and Italian tennis.

"My performance was solid, a little bit of tension when I was serving for the match which is normal, but I'm very happy to be in the semi-finals," he said.

Jannik Sinner powered past Grigor Dimitrov in straight sets on Tuesday (Jun 4) to reach his first French Open semi-final, having struggled at the Grand Slam the past two years.

Jannik Sinner powered past Grigor Dimitrov in straight sets on Tuesday (Jun 4) to reach his first French Open semi-final, having struggled at the Grand Slam the past two years. The Australian Open champion, who will become world number one next week after Novak Djokovic's withdrawal from the tournament, eased to a 6-2, 6-4, 7-6 (7/3) victory and will take on either Alcaraz or Stefanos Tsitsipas in the last four. Sinner's achievement of becoming Italy's first number one in the sport was secured during his match, as the injury-enforced withdrawal of Djokovic was announced. "What can I say?" said the 22-year-old. "It's every player's dream to become number one in the world. On the other hand, seeing Novak retiring (from the tournament) is disappointing, so I wish him a speedy recovery." Sinner already knew that he could take the number-one berth by reaching the final at Roland Garros. He has enjoyed a fine season, also winning the Rotterdam and Miami Opens in addition to his maiden Grand Slam title in Melbourne. "I'm trying not to think about it too much as this has been a tournament I've struggled in the last couple of years so I'm very happy to be in the semi-finals," Sinner added. "It's a special moment for me...for people watching in Italy. Let's see on Friday what I can do." Sinner's win-loss record this year now stands at an impressive 33-2, his only two defeats this season coming against Alcaraz in the Indian Wells semi-finals and Tsitsipas in the Monte Carlo last four. If Sinner is to reach a second successive major final, he will have to overcome Alcaraz, against whom he shares a 4-4 head-to-head record, or Tsitsipas, who he has lost to six times in nine meetings. Alcaraz faces former Roland Garros runner-up Tsitsipas in Tuesday's night session. Also read | Defending champion Novak Djokovic forced to withdraw from French Open Sinner dominates Bulgarian 10th seed Dimitrov was playing in the quarter-finals for the first time on his 14th French Open appearance, and was largely outplayed despite a brief late rally. Sinner eased to the opening set, breaking twice and losing just four points behind his serve. He broke again in the first game of the second set and comfortably held from then on to move closer to the semis. It was a similar story for much of the third, as Sinner set up the chance to serve for the match when leading 5-4, but Dimitrov finally put him under pressure to level the set. The second seed gathered himself, though, to force a tie-break, which he dominated to add another career first on an already landmark day for himself and Italian tennis. "My performance was solid, a little bit of tension when I was serving for the match which is normal, but I'm very happy to be in the semi-finals," he said.

French Open: Sinner dispatches Dimitrov in straight sets to reach first Roland Garros semi-final

Jannik Sinner took time to get his engine going before motoring into the French Open quarter-finals while defending champion Iga Swiatek raced through on Sunday as scheduling at the Grand Slam came under scrutiny after Novak Djokovic's overnight marathon.

Second seed Sinner kept his hopes of taking Djokovic's top ranking alive with a battling 2-6 6-3 6-2 6-1 win over local favourite Corentin Moutet in front of partisan fans on Court Philippe Chatrier.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-french-open-carlos-alcaraz-blows-away-auger-aliassime-to-set-up-quarter-final-clash-against-tsitsipas-728080">French Open: Carlos Alcaraz blows away Auger-Aliassime to set up quarter-final clash against Tsitsipas</a>

With Roland Garros still abuzz after an epic duel where Djokovic prevailed after the tournament's latest finish at just past three a.m local time, Swiatek provided a masterclass to beat Anastasia Potapova 6-0 6-0 in 40 minutes.

American Coco Gauff was not as ruthless as her Polish rival but equally efficient as she powered past Elisabetta Cocciaretto 6-1 6-2 in an hour before Wimbledon winner Marketa Vondrousova mowed down Serbian Olga Danilovic 6-4 6-2.

Ons Jabeur continued her quest to win an elusive maiden Grand Slam by taking out Danish player Clara Tauson 6-4 6-4 before breaking into a song with her fans as matches were wrapped up in double quick time.

It was a largely a similar tune on the men's side too, as third seed Carlos Alcaraz thumped Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-3 6-3 6-1 to set up a rematch of his 2023 quarter-final with Stefanos Tsitsipas, who beat Matteo Arnaldi 3-6 7-6(4) 6-2 6-2.

"I love these kinds of matches," Alcaraz said. "Hopefully the crowd enjoys (it) as much as I'm going to. Let's see how it's going to be."

Alcaraz's entertaining win meant the entire day session for singles on Court Philippe Chatrier was completed in exactly four hours, 29 minutes less than Djokovic needed to defeat Italian Lorenzo Musetti in a five-setter overnight.

<h2>Scheduling Rethink</h2>

The late finish came under criticism as Swiatek and Gauff said that Grand Slams needed a scheduling rethink.

There were more complaints on social media as fans were left twiddling their thumbs for hours before the night session, where Sinner sent the last local hope Moutet packing.

"I was always one of the players that said that we should start a little bit earlier," Swiatek said of the Djokovic match. "I don't know if fans are watching these matches if they have to go to work next day when the matches are finishing at two or three a.m."

Organisers were forced to add a match on the main showcourt before Djokovic played due to rain delays.

"It's a complicated thing, but for the health and safety of the players, it would be in the sport's best interest to try to avoid those matches finishing - or starting - after a certain time," Gauff said.

Grigor Dimitrov later showed it was never too late to break new ground, as the in-form Bulgarian 10th seed outlasted Hubert Hurkacz 7-6(5) 6-4 7-6(3) to reach his first quarter-final at the French Open and complete his set of Grand Slam last eight appearances.

Jannik Sinner took time to get his engine going before motoring into the French Open quarter-finals while defending champion Iga Swiatek raced through on Sunday as scheduling at the Grand Slam came under scrutiny after Novak Djokovic's overnight marathon.

Jannik Sinner took time to get his engine going before motoring into the French Open quarter-finals while defending champion Iga Swiatek raced through on Sunday as scheduling at the Grand Slam came under scrutiny after Novak Djokovic's overnight marathon. Second seed Sinner kept his hopes of taking Djokovic's top ranking alive with a battling 2-6 6-3 6-2 6-1 win over local favourite Corentin Moutet in front of partisan fans on Court Philippe Chatrier. ALSO READ: French Open: Carlos Alcaraz blows away Auger-Aliassime to set up quarter-final clash against Tsitsipas With Roland Garros still abuzz after an epic duel where Djokovic prevailed after the tournament's latest finish at just past three a.m local time, Swiatek provided a masterclass to beat Anastasia Potapova 6-0 6-0 in 40 minutes. American Coco Gauff was not as ruthless as her Polish rival but equally efficient as she powered past Elisabetta Cocciaretto 6-1 6-2 in an hour before Wimbledon winner Marketa Vondrousova mowed down Serbian Olga Danilovic 6-4 6-2. Ons Jabeur continued her quest to win an elusive maiden Grand Slam by taking out Danish player Clara Tauson 6-4 6-4 before breaking into a song with her fans as matches were wrapped up in double quick time. It was a largely a similar tune on the men's side too, as third seed Carlos Alcaraz thumped Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-3 6-3 6-1 to set up a rematch of his 2023 quarter-final with Stefanos Tsitsipas, who beat Matteo Arnaldi 3-6 7-6(4) 6-2 6-2. "I love these kinds of matches," Alcaraz said. "Hopefully the crowd enjoys (it) as much as I'm going to. Let's see how it's going to be." Alcaraz's entertaining win meant the entire day session for singles on Court Philippe Chatrier was completed in exactly four hours, 29 minutes less than Djokovic needed to defeat Italian Lorenzo Musetti in a five-setter overnight. Scheduling Rethink The late finish came under criticism as Swiatek and Gauff said that Grand Slams needed a scheduling rethink. There were more complaints on social media as fans were left twiddling their thumbs for hours before the night session, where Sinner sent the last local hope Moutet packing. "I was always one of the players that said that we should start a little bit earlier," Swiatek said of the Djokovic match. "I don't know if fans are watching these matches if they have to go to work next day when the matches are finishing at two or three a.m." Organisers were forced to add a match on the main showcourt before Djokovic played due to rain delays. "It's a complicated thing, but for the health and safety of the players, it would be in the sport's best interest to try to avoid those matches finishing - or starting - after a certain time," Gauff said. Grigor Dimitrov later showed it was never too late to break new ground, as the in-form Bulgarian 10th seed outlasted Hubert Hurkacz 7-6(5) 6-4 7-6(3) to reach his first quarter-final at the French Open and complete his set of Grand Slam last eight appearances.

Jannik Sinner, Iga Swiatek race to French Open quarters as scheduling comes under scrutiny

Tunisian Ons Jabeur has booked her place in the French Open 2024 fourth round after beating Canada’s Leylah Fernandez in straight sets on Friday (May 31). Jabeur bidding to win her first Grand Slam title was seen in fluent form after she dismantled Fernandez 6-4, 7-5 and now moves a step closer to her dream. In the men’s game, Australian Open champion&nbsp;Jannik Sinner got the better of Pavel Kotov 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 and will now bid for a place in the last eight of the competition.

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Ons to the fourth round 🇹🇳<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Ons_Jabeur?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Ons_Jabeur</a> <a href="https://t.co/8UPNgWW8F4">pic.twitter.com/8UPNgWW8F4</a>
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<h2>Jabeur into R4</h2>

After suffering heartbreaking defeats in back-to-back Wimbledon finals, Jabeur is determined to get one step closer to winning her first Grand Slam. In a contest that lasted 113 minutes, the Tunisian closed out on her opponent having amassed 57 per cent first serves while winning 69 per cent of those. She also had three aces during the match which highlighted her dominance in the match.

While Jabeur was broken twice, she did enough to overcome the obstacle of her opponent to play in the fourth round. She has so far dropped only one set at the French Open and will look to continue that form heading into the next round. She will face Denmark’s Clara Tauson who got the better of Sofia Kenin in straight sets.

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<h2>Sinner, Swiatek in next round</h2>

Birthday girl and defending champion Iga Switek has also booked her place in the next round after getting the better of Marie Bouzková in the third round. Swiatek had beaten former Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka after saving a match point in the second round but did not face too many obstacles as she won 6-4, 6-2. She has won the prestigious title three times and could join Justin Hennin for four wins at the Roland Garros if she succeeds in Paris this year. Only Steffi Graff (6) and Chris Evert (7) have won more titles in the women’s division.

Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner has also shown his class at the Australian Open after he overcame Pavel Kotov. The Italian is yet to drop a set at the French Open 2024 as he continues to impress on the clay court.

Tunisian Ons Jabeur has booked her place in the French Open 2024 fourth round after beating Canada’s Leylah Fernandez in straight sets on Friday (May 31). Jabeur bidding to win her first Grand Slam title was seen in fluent form after she dismantled Fernandez 6-4, 7-5 and now moves a step closer to her dream.

Tunisian Ons Jabeur has booked her place in the French Open 2024 fourth round after beating Canada’s Leylah Fernandez in straight sets on Friday (May 31). Jabeur bidding to win her first Grand Slam title was seen in fluent form after she dismantled Fernandez 6-4, 7-5 and now moves a step closer to her dream. In the men’s game, Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner got the better of Pavel Kotov 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 and will now bid for a place in the last eight of the competition. Ons to the fourth round 🇹🇳#RolandGarros @Ons_Jabeur pic.twitter.com/8UPNgWW8F4 — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) May 31, 2024 × Jabeur into R4 After suffering heartbreaking defeats in back-to-back Wimbledon finals, Jabeur is determined to get one step closer to winning her first Grand Slam. In a contest that lasted 113 minutes, the Tunisian closed out on her opponent having amassed 57 per cent first serves while winning 69 per cent of those. She also had three aces during the match which highlighted her dominance in the match. While Jabeur was broken twice, she did enough to overcome the obstacle of her opponent to play in the fourth round. She has so far dropped only one set at the French Open and will look to continue that form heading into the next round. She will face Denmark’s Clara Tauson who got the better of Sofia Kenin in straight sets. ALSO READ | Former Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho agrees to a two-year deal with Turkish side Fenerbahçe Sinner, Swiatek in next round Birthday girl and defending champion Iga Switek has also booked her place in the next round after getting the better of Marie Bouzková in the third round. Swiatek had beaten former Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka after saving a match point in the second round but did not face too many obstacles as she won 6-4, 6-2. She has won the prestigious title three times and could join Justin Hennin for four wins at the Roland Garros if she succeeds in Paris this year. Only Steffi Graff (6) and Chris Evert (7) have won more titles in the women’s division. Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner has also shown his class at the Australian Open after he overcame Pavel Kotov. The Italian is yet to drop a set at the French Open 2024 as he continues to impress on the clay court.

French Open: Ons Jabeur overcomes Leylah Fernandez in straight sets; Jannik Sinner marches into fourth round

World number two Jannik Sinner eased into the third round of the 2024 French Open&nbsp;on Wednesday (May 29), with a straight-set win over Frenchman Richard Gasquet on Court Philippe-Chatrier. The match lasted a little over two hours where Sinner won 6-4, 6-2, 6-4. The Italian is now just four wins away from becoming the world number one for the first time in his career. Meanwhile, US sensation Coco Gauff also entered the third round with a 6-3, 6-4 over Tamara Zidansek.&nbsp;

Talking about Sinner's clash, he seemed in control for most parts of the contest. However, he was seen struggling with his hip in the final set. Thus, Gasquet made him work hard for every point but the Australian Open champion eased past his opposition in 2 hours and 14 minutes. With rain leading to cancellations on other courts, the Sinner-Gasquet clash didn't see any rain break, thanks to the roof on Centre Court. The 22-year-old Sinner will now lock horns with Pavel Kotov of Russia, who defeated Stan Wawrinka 7-6 (5), 6-4, 1-6, 7-6 (5) in the second round.

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On the other hand, Gauff put up a clinical show as well to reach the third round of the women's singles at this year's French Open. She went past Slovenian player Zidansek 6-3, 6-4 to reach the third round at the Roland Garros for the fourth year in a row. The match lasted for an hour and 31 minutes.&nbsp;

While Gauff won in straight sets, she didn't have it all easy. She conceded a 2-1 lead in the opening set before bouncing back in style. In the second and penultimate set, the 20-year-old had a 4-2 lead before Zidansek levelled scores at 4-4. Eventually, Gauff was the better player and she ended the game in the second set itself.&nbsp;

Gauff will now take on the winner of the match between China’s Yafan Wang and Ukraine’s Dayana Yastremska in her next round.

World number two Jannik Sinner eased into the third round of the 2024 French Open on Wednesday (May 29), with a straight-set win over Frenchman Richard Gasquet on Court Philippe-Chatrier.

World number two Jannik Sinner eased into the third round of the 2024 French Open on Wednesday (May 29), with a straight-set win over Frenchman Richard Gasquet on Court Philippe-Chatrier. The match lasted a little over two hours where Sinner won 6-4, 6-2, 6-4. The Italian is now just four wins away from becoming the world number one for the first time in his career. Meanwhile, US sensation Coco Gauff also entered the third round with a 6-3, 6-4 over Tamara Zidansek. Talking about Sinner's clash, he seemed in control for most parts of the contest. However, he was seen struggling with his hip in the final set. Thus, Gasquet made him work hard for every point but the Australian Open champion eased past his opposition in 2 hours and 14 minutes. With rain leading to cancellations on other courts, the Sinner-Gasquet clash didn't see any rain break, thanks to the roof on Centre Court. The 22-year-old Sinner will now lock horns with Pavel Kotov of Russia, who defeated Stan Wawrinka 7-6 (5), 6-4, 1-6, 7-6 (5) in the second round. Also read: Defending champion Iga Swiatek survives almighty scare to pip Naomi Osaka in French Open thriller On the other hand, Gauff put up a clinical show as well to reach the third round of the women's singles at this year's French Open. She went past Slovenian player Zidansek 6-3, 6-4 to reach the third round at the Roland Garros for the fourth year in a row. The match lasted for an hour and 31 minutes. While Gauff won in straight sets, she didn't have it all easy. She conceded a 2-1 lead in the opening set before bouncing back in style. In the second and penultimate set, the 20-year-old had a 4-2 lead before Zidansek levelled scores at 4-4. Eventually, Gauff was the better player and she ended the game in the second set itself. Gauff will now take on the winner of the match between China’s Yafan Wang and Ukraine’s Dayana Yastremska in her next round.

French Open: Jannik Sinner, Coco Gauff enter third round with straight-set wins

Novak Djokovic's shock exit from the Italian Open on Sunday could prove to be a decisive moment in the race for the world number one spot, as the top-ranked Serb prepares for his French Open title defence with Jannik Sinner poised to leapfrog him. Two days after accidentally being hit on the head by a water bottle while signing autographs in Rome, an off-colour Djokovic crashed to his earliest defeat in the tournament he has won six times after a 6-2 6-3 third-round thrashing by Alejandro Tabilo.

Djokovic will remain 1,090 points ahead of Sinner before the year's second Grand Slam begins on May 26, but the 36-year-old is on shaky ground as he will be defending 2,000 points in Paris and winning the title may not be enough to stay on top.

"It was a very unfortunate, unlucky situation ... that guy leaned over the fence, and the bottle dropped from his rucksack and landed on my head," Djokovic said, reflecting on the freak accident that hurt his chances to pull away from Sinner. "It was unexpected. I wasn't even looking up. Then I felt a very strong hit in the head. That has really impacted me. After that I got the medical care. Been through half-an-hour, an hour of nausea, dizziness, blood,&nbsp;a lot of different things."

"I managed to sleep okay. I had headaches. Yesterday was fine, so I thought it's okay. Maybe it's okay. Maybe it's not. "The way I felt on the court was just completely like a different player entered into my shoes. No rhythm, no tempo, no balance whatsoever on any shot. It's a bit concerning."

With only six matches on clay, Djokovic will be slightly undercooked as he heads to Paris in search of a record 25th Grand Slam title. Even if Djokovic goes on to win at Roland Garros, Sinner could rise to world number one for the first time on June 10 by reaching the championship match.

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The 22-year-old Sinner, who skipped Rome with a hip injury sustained in Madrid, will be defending only 45 points in Paris but faces a race against time to be fully fit. Djokovic had endured a bumpy season even before the bottle incident as the Serb's bid for a record-extending 11th title at the Australian Open was snuffed out by eventual champion Sinner in the semi-finals.

He then fell to lucky loser Luca Nardi in the Indian Wells third round before being outlasted by Casper Ruud in the Monte Carlo semi-finals, sparking fear among fans that his aura of invincibility was slowly fading.

Despite winning three out of the four Grand Slams last year, Djokovic split with long-time coach Goran Ivanisevic and fitness coach Marco Panichi in a bid to rediscover his best form ahead of Roland Garros, Wimbledon and the Paris Olympics.

Talk of terminal decline may still be premature and Djokovic could silence critics by winning a fourth title at the claycourt major, but he admitted things must improve fast after reaching May without a trophy for the first time since 2018. "Everything needs to be better in order for me to have at least a chance to win it," said Djokovic.

Novak Djokovic's shock exit from the Italian Open on Sunday could prove to be a decisive moment in the race for the world number one spot, as the top-ranked Serb prepares for his French Open title defence with Jannik Sinner poised to leapfrog him.

Novak Djokovic's shock exit from the Italian Open on Sunday could prove to be a decisive moment in the race for the world number one spot, as the top-ranked Serb prepares for his French Open title defence with Jannik Sinner poised to leapfrog him. Two days after accidentally being hit on the head by a water bottle while signing autographs in Rome, an off-colour Djokovic crashed to his earliest defeat in the tournament he has won six times after a 6-2 6-3 third-round thrashing by Alejandro Tabilo. Djokovic will remain 1,090 points ahead of Sinner before the year's second Grand Slam begins on May 26, but the 36-year-old is on shaky ground as he will be defending 2,000 points in Paris and winning the title may not be enough to stay on top. "It was a very unfortunate, unlucky situation ... that guy leaned over the fence, and the bottle dropped from his rucksack and landed on my head," Djokovic said, reflecting on the freak accident that hurt his chances to pull away from Sinner. "It was unexpected. I wasn't even looking up. Then I felt a very strong hit in the head. That has really impacted me. After that I got the medical care. Been through half-an-hour, an hour of nausea, dizziness, blood, a lot of different things." "I managed to sleep okay. I had headaches. Yesterday was fine, so I thought it's okay. Maybe it's okay. Maybe it's not. "The way I felt on the court was just completely like a different player entered into my shoes. No rhythm, no tempo, no balance whatsoever on any shot. It's a bit concerning." With only six matches on clay, Djokovic will be slightly undercooked as he heads to Paris in search of a record 25th Grand Slam title. Even if Djokovic goes on to win at Roland Garros, Sinner could rise to world number one for the first time on June 10 by reaching the championship match. Also read: Chile's Tabilo stuns tennis world with shock win over Novak Djokovic in Italian Open third round The 22-year-old Sinner, who skipped Rome with a hip injury sustained in Madrid, will be defending only 45 points in Paris but faces a race against time to be fully fit. Djokovic had endured a bumpy season even before the bottle incident as the Serb's bid for a record-extending 11th title at the Australian Open was snuffed out by eventual champion Sinner in the semi-finals. He then fell to lucky loser Luca Nardi in the Indian Wells third round before being outlasted by Casper Ruud in the Monte Carlo semi-finals, sparking fear among fans that his aura of invincibility was slowly fading. Despite winning three out of the four Grand Slams last year, Djokovic split with long-time coach Goran Ivanisevic and fitness coach Marco Panichi in a bid to rediscover his best form ahead of Roland Garros, Wimbledon and the Paris Olympics. Talk of terminal decline may still be premature and Djokovic could silence critics by winning a fourth title at the claycourt major, but he admitted things must improve fast after reaching May without a trophy for the first time since 2018. "Everything needs to be better in order for me to have at least a chance to win it," said Djokovic.

Novak Djokovic's Rome exit opens door for Jannik Sinner to attain top ranking at Roland Garros

Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner announced Saturday he will not play at the upcoming Italian Open due to a hip injury which forced him out in Madrid earlier this week.

Italian Sinner was a doubt for the Rome event which starts on Wednesday and is the last big tournament before the Grand Slam French Open.

"After speaking again with the doctors and specialists about my hip problems I have to announce that unfortunately I will not be able to play in Rome," the world number two said on X, formerly Twitter.

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"I'm very sad that I wasn't able to recover as it is one of my favourite tournaments."

The 22-year-old would have been one of the favourites for the Masters 1000 tournament in the Italian capital after winning the Australian Open, his first Slam title, at the start of the year and following that up and his second Masters 1000 crown in Miami in March.

Sinner, who holds a 28-2 record on the season, was due to face Felix Auger-Aliassime in the Madrid quarter-finals on Thursday but revealed he had been battling through a hip issue in the Spanish capital.

Sinner joins world number three Carlos Alcaraz in withdrawing from the clay court event in Rome after the Spaniard succumbed to a right forearm injury that sidelined him in Monte Carlo and Barcelona.

The pair will now try to recover in time for an assault on the French Open, the season's second major, which starts in Paris on May 26.

Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner announced Saturday he will not play at the upcoming Italian Open due to a hip injury which forced him out in Madrid earlier this week.

Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner announced Saturday he will not play at the upcoming Italian Open due to a hip injury which forced him out in Madrid earlier this week. Italian Sinner was a doubt for the Rome event which starts on Wednesday and is the last big tournament before the Grand Slam French Open. "After speaking again with the doctors and specialists about my hip problems I have to announce that unfortunately I will not be able to play in Rome," the world number two said on X, formerly Twitter. Also Read: Lakers fire head coach Darvin Ham after loss in playoffs to Denver Nuggets "I'm very sad that I wasn't able to recover as it is one of my favourite tournaments." The 22-year-old would have been one of the favourites for the Masters 1000 tournament in the Italian capital after winning the Australian Open, his first Slam title, at the start of the year and following that up and his second Masters 1000 crown in Miami in March. Sinner, who holds a 28-2 record on the season, was due to face Felix Auger-Aliassime in the Madrid quarter-finals on Thursday but revealed he had been battling through a hip issue in the Spanish capital. Sinner joins world number three Carlos Alcaraz in withdrawing from the clay court event in Rome after the Spaniard succumbed to a right forearm injury that sidelined him in Monte Carlo and Barcelona. The pair will now try to recover in time for an assault on the French Open, the season's second major, which starts in Paris on May 26.

Tennis: Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner withdraws from Italian Open due to injury

On Wednesday (May 1), top-seeded Jannik Sinner withdrew from the ongoing Madrid Open, in Spain, due to a hip injury. Sinner went past Karen Khachanov in the fourth round and was set to take on Felix Auger-Aliassime in the quarterfinals on Thursday (May 2).

However, he has left the tournament midway with an injury crisis -- just few weeks before the upcoming French Open.&nbsp;

<h2>'My hip has been bothering me'</h2>

World number two Sinner said on social media, "Very sad to have to withdraw from my next match here in Madrid."

"My hip has been bothering me this week and has slowly been getting more painful. Taking the advice from the doctors we decided it's best to not play further and make it worse."

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The 22-year-old was expected to play in Rome before the French Open, which kicks off&nbsp;later this month.

However, his withdrawal seems like a wise decision as the in-form Italian player will be eager to regain full fitness ahead of the second Grand Slam of the calendar year.

It is to be noted that the 2024 Australian Open winner holds a 28-2 record this season. He&nbsp;was making his third appearance in Madrid before quitting midway with injury concerns.

With Sinner pulling out, Auger-Aliassime will play in his first ATP 1000 semifinal since Paris in 2022. The Canadian will now lock horns with either third-seeded Daniil Medvedev or 30th-seeded Jiri Lehecka.&nbsp;

Carlos Alcaraz also bowed out of the Madrid Open, on Wednesday, after losing to Russian seventh seed Andrey Rublev in the quarterfinals.

He went down&nbsp;4-6 6-3 6-2 in front of his home crowd as Rublev will now face American Taylor Fritz in Friday's semifinal clash.&nbsp;

On Wednesday (May 1), top-seeded Jannik Sinner withdrew from the ongoing Madrid Open, in Spain, due to a hip injury. Sinner went past Karen Khachanov in the fourth round and was set to take on Felix Auger-Aliassime in the quarterfinals on Thursday (May 2).

On Wednesday (May 1), top-seeded Jannik Sinner withdrew from the ongoing Madrid Open, in Spain, due to a hip injury. Sinner went past Karen Khachanov in the fourth round and was set to take on Felix Auger-Aliassime in the quarterfinals on Thursday (May 2). However, he has left the tournament midway with an injury crisis -- just few weeks before the upcoming French Open. 'My hip has been bothering me' World number two Sinner said on social media, "Very sad to have to withdraw from my next match here in Madrid." "My hip has been bothering me this week and has slowly been getting more painful. Taking the advice from the doctors we decided it's best to not play further and make it worse." Also read: Tennis: Flawless Andrey Rublev knocks out champion Carlos Alcaraz to move into Madrid semis The 22-year-old was expected to play in Rome before the French Open, which kicks off later this month. However, his withdrawal seems like a wise decision as the in-form Italian player will be eager to regain full fitness ahead of the second Grand Slam of the calendar year. It is to be noted that the 2024 Australian Open winner holds a 28-2 record this season. He was making his third appearance in Madrid before quitting midway with injury concerns. With Sinner pulling out, Auger-Aliassime will play in his first ATP 1000 semifinal since Paris in 2022. The Canadian will now lock horns with either third-seeded Daniil Medvedev or 30th-seeded Jiri Lehecka. Carlos Alcaraz also bowed out of the Madrid Open, on Wednesday, after losing to Russian seventh seed Andrey Rublev in the quarterfinals. He went down 4-6 6-3 6-2 in front of his home crowd as Rublev will now face American Taylor Fritz in Friday's semifinal clash.

Tennis: Jannik Sinner withdraws from Madrid Open with hip injury ahead of Roland Garros

World number two Jannik Sinner can close in on Novak Djokovic at the top of the world rankings by lifting the Madrid Open title but the in-form Italian said he is not putting any extra pressure on himself after a superb start to the season. With Djokovic skipping the Masters tournament to stay in top shape for the Grand Slams and the Olympic Games, Australian Open champion Sinner would pick up 1,000 points and move to within 330 of the Serb if he wins his fourth trophy of 2024.

"I don't want to put pressure on myself. I'm living a very positive moment, winning a lot of matches, I just try to keep going like this," Sinner, who has lost only two of his 27 matches this year, told reporters. "In my mind, I know that I can and have to improve if I want to win more. I'm searching for new opportunities and I feel like that every tournament I play, there can be a good opportunity to show that my level has raised. "Showing what I've improved ... that's for sure something I'd like to do here. This is a new opportunity, new tournament and we'll see how it goes."

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Defending Madrid champion Carlos Alcaraz said Sinner was the man to beat ahead of the May 26-June 9 French Open Grand Slam. "He's dangerous. He's the best player in the world right now," world number three Alcaraz said. "I think (some people) think his tennis doesn't suit well to the clay, but he's had results on clay as well.

"He can win every tournament he goes to, and obviously I'm fighting with him and Novak to be number one. I'm trying to stay there, but honestly it's going to be difficult."

World number two Jannik Sinner can close in on Novak Djokovic at the top of the world rankings by lifting the Madrid Open title but the in-form Italian said he is not putting any extra pressure on himself after a superb start to the season.

World number two Jannik Sinner can close in on Novak Djokovic at the top of the world rankings by lifting the Madrid Open title but the in-form Italian said he is not putting any extra pressure on himself after a superb start to the season. With Djokovic skipping the Masters tournament to stay in top shape for the Grand Slams and the Olympic Games, Australian Open champion Sinner would pick up 1,000 points and move to within 330 of the Serb if he wins his fourth trophy of 2024. "I don't want to put pressure on myself. I'm living a very positive moment, winning a lot of matches, I just try to keep going like this," Sinner, who has lost only two of his 27 matches this year, told reporters. "In my mind, I know that I can and have to improve if I want to win more. I'm searching for new opportunities and I feel like that every tournament I play, there can be a good opportunity to show that my level has raised. "Showing what I've improved ... that's for sure something I'd like to do here. This is a new opportunity, new tournament and we'll see how it goes." Also read: Novak Djokovic to coach himself? Tennis great drops hint for final stage of career Defending Madrid champion Carlos Alcaraz said Sinner was the man to beat ahead of the May 26-June 9 French Open Grand Slam. "He's dangerous. He's the best player in the world right now," world number three Alcaraz said. "I think (some people) think his tennis doesn't suit well to the clay, but he's had results on clay as well. "He can win every tournament he goes to, and obviously I'm fighting with him and Novak to be number one. I'm trying to stay there, but honestly it's going to be difficult."

Tennis: Jannik Sinner not heaping pressure on himself with top ranking in sight ahead of Madrid Open

asper Ruud stunned top seed Novak Djokovic 6-4 1-6 6-4 in a thrilling Monte Carlo Masters semi-final on Saturday (April 13), avenging his loss in last year's French Open final to set up a title clash with twice-champion Stefanos Tsitsipas.

Greek Tsitsipas upset second seed Jannik Sinner 6-4 3-6 6-4 in the first semi-final.

Norwegian Ruud, who had lost to Djokovic in all five of their previous matches, broke twice early in the first set before the Serbian record 24-times Grand Slam champion fought back strongly in the second.

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Eighth seed Ruud held his nerve, however, as five unforced errors from Djokovic allowed him to go 3-0 up in the decider and he calmly closed out the victory.

Sinner goes down to Tsitsipas

Two-times champion Stefanos Tsitsipas stunned second seed Jannik Sinner 6-4 3-6 6-4 to advance to the final of the Monte-Carlo Masters on Saturday (April 13).

The 25-year-old Greek, who won the title in 2021 and 2022, kept his cool after a near-flawless display in the opening set to stop Sinner from producing a stirring comeback after the Italian roared back to take a 3-0 lead in the second set.

Sinner continued to build momentum after levelling things up and raced to a 4-3 lead in the decider before an injury on his right leg forced him to take a medical timeout.

The 22-year-old Italian continued the match but proved no match for Tsitsipas who re-asserted himself to win three games in a row and clinched the match.

Sinner had been in red-hot form this year, having won the Australian, Rotterdam and Miami Open, with his only loss in 23 matches coming against twice Grand Slam champion Carlos Alcaraz in the semi-final of the Indian Wells last month.

Having come into the contest with an 11-6 win-loss record for 2024, the win against Sinner ensured that Tsitsipas returned in the top 10 ranking after dropping out for the first time since 2019 earlier in the year.

Tsitsipas will face Casper Ruud in the final after the Norwegian overcame top seed Novak Djokovic 6-4 1-6 6-4 in Saturday's second semi-final.

asper Ruud stunned top seed Novak Djokovic 6-4 1-6 6-4 in a thrilling Monte Carlo Masters semi-final on Saturday (April 13), avenging his loss in last year's French Open final to set up a title clash with twice-champion Stefanos Tsitsipas.

asper Ruud stunned top seed Novak Djokovic 6-4 1-6 6-4 in a thrilling Monte Carlo Masters semi-final on Saturday (April 13), avenging his loss in last year's French Open final to set up a title clash with twice-champion Stefanos Tsitsipas. Greek Tsitsipas upset second seed Jannik Sinner 6-4 3-6 6-4 in the first semi-final. Norwegian Ruud, who had lost to Djokovic in all five of their previous matches, broke twice early in the first set before the Serbian record 24-times Grand Slam champion fought back strongly in the second. Also Read: Formula 1: Australia, not Bahrain, to hold 2025 season opener as FIA releases next year’s calendar Eighth seed Ruud held his nerve, however, as five unforced errors from Djokovic allowed him to go 3-0 up in the decider and he calmly closed out the victory. Sinner goes down to Tsitsipas Two-times champion Stefanos Tsitsipas stunned second seed Jannik Sinner 6-4 3-6 6-4 to advance to the final of the Monte-Carlo Masters on Saturday (April 13). The 25-year-old Greek, who won the title in 2021 and 2022, kept his cool after a near-flawless display in the opening set to stop Sinner from producing a stirring comeback after the Italian roared back to take a 3-0 lead in the second set. Sinner continued to build momentum after levelling things up and raced to a 4-3 lead in the decider before an injury on his right leg forced him to take a medical timeout. The 22-year-old Italian continued the match but proved no match for Tsitsipas who re-asserted himself to win three games in a row and clinched the match. Sinner had been in red-hot form this year, having won the Australian, Rotterdam and Miami Open, with his only loss in 23 matches coming against twice Grand Slam champion Carlos Alcaraz in the semi-final of the Indian Wells last month. Having come into the contest with an 11-6 win-loss record for 2024, the win against Sinner ensured that Tsitsipas returned in the top 10 ranking after dropping out for the first time since 2019 earlier in the year. Tsitsipas will face Casper Ruud in the final after the Norwegian overcame top seed Novak Djokovic 6-4 1-6 6-4 in Saturday's second semi-final.

Tennis: Casper Ruud downs Novak Djokovic; Tsitsipas beats Sinner to enter Monte-Carlo Masters final

Italy's world number two Jannik Sinner beat Holger Rune 6-4 6-7(6) 6-3 in the quarter-finals of the Monte Carlo Masters on Friday after his Danish opponent saved two match points. Top seed Novak Djokovic also advanced to the semis after a hard-fought 7-5 6-4 win over Australian 11th seed Alex de Minaur.

This is the 36-year-old Serb's first semi-final since 2015, making him the oldest semi-finalist in the tournament's history. Djokovic also surpassed Rafa Nadal to make a record 77 Masters 1000 semi-final appearances.

"It was tough for both of us. He's one of the quickest players on tour. He gets a lot of balls back that 99% of players don't," Djokovic said. "He did surprise me in several passing shots.

"He said at the net that it was ugly, in the second I think we didn't play really at the high level. Again, win is a win; glad to go through.

"I'm very happy to be back in the semis, it's been a while. I love this tournament... another semis, look forward to it."

Djokovic will next face Norwegian eighth seed Casper Ruud, who beat Frenchman Ugo Humbert 6-3 4-6 6-1.

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Rune beat Sinner in the semi-finals last year but this time it was the second seed who prevailed as he reached a fifth semi-final in as many tournaments this year.

Rune had played two matches on Thursday, first finishing his rain-affected clash with Sumit Nagal before a 3-1/2 hour thriller with Grigor Dimitrov where he saved two match points, with both games going the distance.

He looked far from fatigued as faced the Australian Open champion in bright sunshine but the 20-year-old also took on the crowd, who jeered and whistled at him while he also argued with the chair umpire over a line call.

"Playing against him is never easy, especially in such occasions. I'm very happy I won today, but mostly about my physical level - I raised it today," Sinner said.

"This can happen (Rune taking on the umpire and crowd), there's nothing wrong with all this. You can make a little bit chaos, but it's all part of the learning process."

Sinner took the first set and looked destined to seal a straight-sets victory at 6-4 in the second set tiebreak, but Rune saved two match points once again -- one with a superb cross-court forehand winner -- before levelling the tie.

The final set went with serve until 4-3 when Sinner converted the decisive break point after Rune made a costly double-fault and the Italian held his nerve to serve out the contest.

Sinner will face 12th seed Stefanos Tsitsipas, who beat Karen Khachanov 6-4 6-2 in a rematch of last year's Australian Open semi-final as the Greek looks to return to form after a mixed record in 2024.

Tsitsipas arrived at the tournament with a 11-6 win-loss record this year but has fond memories of the Monte Carlo Masters where he won the title in 2021 and 2022.

Bolstered by a strong first serve, Tsitsipas put Khachanov to the sword by converting four break points to end his run and improve his head-to-head record against the Russian to 8-1.

"I would lie if I said it doesn't bring good memories stepping out on this court... It's something that I attribute some of my performances here over time to," Tsitsipas said.

"I come back here and I sort of relive those memories of the past. It gives good feelings to me when I'm able to play in front of crowds like this and be able to try and strive for excellence with my game."

Italy's world number two Jannik Sinner beat Holger Rune 6-4 6-7(6) 6-3 in the quarter-finals of the Monte Carlo Masters on Friday after his Danish opponent saved two match points.

Italy's world number two Jannik Sinner beat Holger Rune 6-4 6-7(6) 6-3 in the quarter-finals of the Monte Carlo Masters on Friday after his Danish opponent saved two match points. Top seed Novak Djokovic also advanced to the semis after a hard-fought 7-5 6-4 win over Australian 11th seed Alex de Minaur. This is the 36-year-old Serb's first semi-final since 2015, making him the oldest semi-finalist in the tournament's history. Djokovic also surpassed Rafa Nadal to make a record 77 Masters 1000 semi-final appearances. "It was tough for both of us. He's one of the quickest players on tour. He gets a lot of balls back that 99% of players don't," Djokovic said. "He did surprise me in several passing shots. "He said at the net that it was ugly, in the second I think we didn't play really at the high level. Again, win is a win; glad to go through. "I'm very happy to be back in the semis, it's been a while. I love this tournament... another semis, look forward to it." Djokovic will next face Norwegian eighth seed Casper Ruud, who beat Frenchman Ugo Humbert 6-3 4-6 6-1. ALSO READ: Why defeats for Liverpool, West Ham in Europa League dented Villa's Champions League qualification prospect? Rune beat Sinner in the semi-finals last year but this time it was the second seed who prevailed as he reached a fifth semi-final in as many tournaments this year. Rune had played two matches on Thursday, first finishing his rain-affected clash with Sumit Nagal before a 3-1/2 hour thriller with Grigor Dimitrov where he saved two match points, with both games going the distance. He looked far from fatigued as faced the Australian Open champion in bright sunshine but the 20-year-old also took on the crowd, who jeered and whistled at him while he also argued with the chair umpire over a line call. "Playing against him is never easy, especially in such occasions. I'm very happy I won today, but mostly about my physical level - I raised it today," Sinner said. "This can happen (Rune taking on the umpire and crowd), there's nothing wrong with all this. You can make a little bit chaos, but it's all part of the learning process." Sinner took the first set and looked destined to seal a straight-sets victory at 6-4 in the second set tiebreak, but Rune saved two match points once again -- one with a superb cross-court forehand winner -- before levelling the tie. The final set went with serve until 4-3 when Sinner converted the decisive break point after Rune made a costly double-fault and the Italian held his nerve to serve out the contest. Sinner will face 12th seed Stefanos Tsitsipas, who beat Karen Khachanov 6-4 6-2 in a rematch of last year's Australian Open semi-final as the Greek looks to return to form after a mixed record in 2024. Tsitsipas arrived at the tournament with a 11-6 win-loss record this year but has fond memories of the Monte Carlo Masters where he won the title in 2021 and 2022. Bolstered by a strong first serve, Tsitsipas put Khachanov to the sword by converting four break points to end his run and improve his head-to-head record against the Russian to 8-1. "I would lie if I said it doesn't bring good memories stepping out on this court... It's something that I attribute some of my performances here over time to," Tsitsipas said. "I come back here and I sort of relive those memories of the past. It gives good feelings to me when I'm able to play in front of crowds like this and be able to try and strive for excellence with my game."

Monte Carlo Masters: Djokovic reaches semis for first time since 2015; Sinner advances to top four

Daniil Medvedev was again drawn into a heated exchange with an umpire before crashing out of the Monte Carlo Masters in a 6-3 7-5 defeat by Karen Khachanov in the last 16 on Thursday, while Novak Djokovic and Jannik Sinner advanced to the quarter-finals.

Fourth seed Medvedev, who had reached at least the quarter-finals in his last two appearances at Monte Carlo, never truly got going against fellow-Russian Khachanov.

After a topsy-turvy start with four breaks in the first four games, Medvedev double-faulted to gift Khachanov the lead at 5-3, with the world number 17 holding serve comfortably to clinch the opening set.

Medvedev shook off some of his early rustiness in the second and had set point when he was 5-4 up, but squandered that opportunity and was unable to break Khachanov's serve.

Khachanov's hold under pressure proved the final straw for Medvedev, who faded quickly and hurled his racket against the backboard after an erroneous call from a line judge.

"Open your freaking eyes," Medvedev, who also argued with the chair umpire after his win over Gael Monfils on Wednesday, shouted at the umpire and supervisor, before being issued a point penalty.

Khachanov reached the last eight in Monte Carlo for the first time.

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"Mentally, even though I've lost a few hard matches to him on hard courts, I know he doesn't like to play on clay and that gives me some extra confidence," Khachanov said in his on-court interview.

"Sometimes I know Daniil can lose his mind. Sometimes he uses it as a tool, but it can get out of control sometimes. I tried not to look at him or focus on him, and just serve it out."

World number one Djokovic looked in trouble early on, but rallied to win 7-5 6-3 against Lorenzo Musetti, the player who knocked the Serb out at this stage in last year's tournament.

The Italian broke in the opening game before Djokovic bounced back with two breaks to take the first set. The pair traded breaks twice in the second set, but Djokovic broke a third time to make it 5-3 and held serve to advance.

"He was the better player for those first seven games, played some great tennis," Djokovic said. "But this is clay and obviously things can turn around very quickly and a break of serve is not as big advantage on this surface compared to the other surfaces."

Djokovic, twice Monte Carlo champion, has not advanced beyond the quarter-final stage since he won in 2015, and will face 11th seed Alex de Minaur who beat Alexei Popyrin 6-3 6-4 in an all-Australian clash.

Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner had little trouble in defeating Jan-Lennard Struff 6-4 6-2, despite the German breaking serve in the opening set.

"I broke him quite early and then he broke me back," Sinner said. "I knew it was going to be really tough but I guess I returned really well, especially on second serves. I can be very happy."

Sinner will next face seventh seed Holger Rune in a rematch of last-year's semi-final, which was won by the Dane.

Rune finished off his rain-delayed clash against Sumit Nagal with a 6-3 3-6 6-2 win, before returning to court to see off Grigor Dimitrov 7-6(9) 3-6 7-6(2) in a three-and-a-half-hour thriller.

"It was a great match. It was tough physically. I had a match earlier today which was two sets, so I played five sets today actually, which is pretty brutal," Rune said.

Twice Monte Carlo champion Stefanos Tsitsipas defied a spirited comeback from fifth seed Alexander Zverev to win 7-5 7-6(3). The Greek 12th seed took a 5-0 lead in the second set before the German made an impressive recovery.

Tsitsipas, winner in 2021 and 2022, held his nerve in the tiebreak to reach the quarter-finals where he will meet Khachanov.

Norwegian eighth seed Casper Ruud also reached the last eight after beating Hubert Hurkacz 6-4 6-2 and will meet 14th seed Ugo Humbert.

Daniil Medvedev was again drawn into a heated exchange with an umpire before crashing out of the Monte Carlo Masters in a 6-3 7-5 defeat by Karen Khachanov in the last 16 on Thursday, while Novak Djokovic and Jannik Sinner advanced to the quarter-finals.

Daniil Medvedev was again drawn into a heated exchange with an umpire before crashing out of the Monte Carlo Masters in a 6-3 7-5 defeat by Karen Khachanov in the last 16 on Thursday, while Novak Djokovic and Jannik Sinner advanced to the quarter-finals. Fourth seed Medvedev, who had reached at least the quarter-finals in his last two appearances at Monte Carlo, never truly got going against fellow-Russian Khachanov. After a topsy-turvy start with four breaks in the first four games, Medvedev double-faulted to gift Khachanov the lead at 5-3, with the world number 17 holding serve comfortably to clinch the opening set. Medvedev shook off some of his early rustiness in the second and had set point when he was 5-4 up, but squandered that opportunity and was unable to break Khachanov's serve. Khachanov's hold under pressure proved the final straw for Medvedev, who faded quickly and hurled his racket against the backboard after an erroneous call from a line judge. "Open your freaking eyes," Medvedev, who also argued with the chair umpire after his win over Gael Monfils on Wednesday, shouted at the umpire and supervisor, before being issued a point penalty. Khachanov reached the last eight in Monte Carlo for the first time. ALSO READ: Paris Olympics: Nike’s campaign unveiling athletes' apparel brings Sha’Carri Richardson into limelight "Mentally, even though I've lost a few hard matches to him on hard courts, I know he doesn't like to play on clay and that gives me some extra confidence," Khachanov said in his on-court interview. "Sometimes I know Daniil can lose his mind. Sometimes he uses it as a tool, but it can get out of control sometimes. I tried not to look at him or focus on him, and just serve it out." World number one Djokovic looked in trouble early on, but rallied to win 7-5 6-3 against Lorenzo Musetti, the player who knocked the Serb out at this stage in last year's tournament. The Italian broke in the opening game before Djokovic bounced back with two breaks to take the first set. The pair traded breaks twice in the second set, but Djokovic broke a third time to make it 5-3 and held serve to advance. "He was the better player for those first seven games, played some great tennis," Djokovic said. "But this is clay and obviously things can turn around very quickly and a break of serve is not as big advantage on this surface compared to the other surfaces." Djokovic, twice Monte Carlo champion, has not advanced beyond the quarter-final stage since he won in 2015, and will face 11th seed Alex de Minaur who beat Alexei Popyrin 6-3 6-4 in an all-Australian clash. Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner had little trouble in defeating Jan-Lennard Struff 6-4 6-2, despite the German breaking serve in the opening set. "I broke him quite early and then he broke me back," Sinner said. "I knew it was going to be really tough but I guess I returned really well, especially on second serves. I can be very happy." Sinner will next face seventh seed Holger Rune in a rematch of last-year's semi-final, which was won by the Dane. Rune finished off his rain-delayed clash against Sumit Nagal with a 6-3 3-6 6-2 win, before returning to court to see off Grigor Dimitrov 7-6(9) 3-6 7-6(2) in a three-and-a-half-hour thriller. "It was a great match. It was tough physically. I had a match earlier today which was two sets, so I played five sets today actually, which is pretty brutal," Rune said. Twice Monte Carlo champion Stefanos Tsitsipas defied a spirited comeback from fifth seed Alexander Zverev to win 7-5 7-6(3). The Greek 12th seed took a 5-0 lead in the second set before the German made an impressive recovery. Tsitsipas, winner in 2021 and 2022, held his nerve in the tiebreak to reach the quarter-finals where he will meet Khachanov. Norwegian eighth seed Casper Ruud also reached the last eight after beating Hubert Hurkacz 6-4 6-2 and will meet 14th seed Ugo Humbert.

Monte Carlo Masters: Daniil Medvedev crashes out in pre-quarters; Sinner, Djokovic advance

Defending champion Andrey Rublev was knocked out of the Monte Carlo Masters in a 6-4 6-4 second-round loss to Australian Alexei Popyrin on Wednesday as world number two Jannik Sinner eased through his first test. Popyrin broke in the third game of the first set, but Rublev broke to take a 3-1 lead in the second, only for the Australian hit back immediately.

A further break made it 5-4 to Popyrin and he held serve to reach the third round for the first time. Russian fifth seed Rublev had received a bye into the second round.

"The idea was not to give him the same ball," Popyrin said. "He is probably the best player from the baseline when you give him rhythm, so I tried to change the pace, height and spin and I think it worked really well for me today."

Popyrin will face fellow Australian Alex de Minaur next, after the 11th seed beat Dutchman Tallon Griekspoor 2-6 6-2 6-3. Italian Sinner, who won his first major title at the Australian Open in January, eased into the third round with a 6-1 6-2 win over American Sebastian Korda.

Korda won their last meeting, in Adelaide last year, but was no match for the in-form Sinner, who also won this year's Miami Open and Rotterdam Opens. Sinner, who broke Korda in the opening game of the match and was never threatened, will next meet German Jan-Lennard Struff who he beat at Indian Wells in March.

Russian fourth seed Daniil Medvedev came through against Gael Monfils 6-2 6-4, but was given a tough test by the French 37-year-old in the second set.

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Monfils led 4-1, however, Medvedev recovered and won five games in a row to avoid a third set, but not before a disagreement with the chair umpire Mohamed Lahyani.

The Russian was clearly angry with a decision, whacking the umbrella over his seat, and when Lahyani said he would apologise if he was wrong, it only increased Medvedev's frustration. "How can you apologise, I lost the freaking game, it's a freaking sport man. You guys are getting ridiculous, with the Hawk Eye live you don't see anything," Medvedev said.

After the game, Medvedev shook hands and apologised to the umpire, and later explained the situation. "I am happy I managed to at one moment try to stay calm, to get my composure, that's what I wanted to do more this year," he said.

"There are going to be moments when I still go crazy... but I am 99% sure the ball was out. It's a pity because I would have won the game and maybe I win 6-2, but I am happy that even from 4-1, I managed to come back and win the set."

Norwegian eighth seed Casper Ruud beat Chile's Alejandro Tabilo 6-2 6-4 and will meet Hubert Hurkacz in the third round after the Pole came through 7-5 7-6(4) against Roberto Bautista Agut.

Defending champion Andrey Rublev was knocked out of the Monte Carlo Masters in a 6-4 6-4 second-round loss to Australian Alexei Popyrin on Wednesday as world number two Jannik Sinner eased through his first test.

Defending champion Andrey Rublev was knocked out of the Monte Carlo Masters in a 6-4 6-4 second-round loss to Australian Alexei Popyrin on Wednesday as world number two Jannik Sinner eased through his first test. Popyrin broke in the third game of the first set, but Rublev broke to take a 3-1 lead in the second, only for the Australian hit back immediately. A further break made it 5-4 to Popyrin and he held serve to reach the third round for the first time. Russian fifth seed Rublev had received a bye into the second round. "The idea was not to give him the same ball," Popyrin said. "He is probably the best player from the baseline when you give him rhythm, so I tried to change the pace, height and spin and I think it worked really well for me today." Popyrin will face fellow Australian Alex de Minaur next, after the 11th seed beat Dutchman Tallon Griekspoor 2-6 6-2 6-3. Italian Sinner, who won his first major title at the Australian Open in January, eased into the third round with a 6-1 6-2 win over American Sebastian Korda. Korda won their last meeting, in Adelaide last year, but was no match for the in-form Sinner, who also won this year's Miami Open and Rotterdam Opens. Sinner, who broke Korda in the opening game of the match and was never threatened, will next meet German Jan-Lennard Struff who he beat at Indian Wells in March. Russian fourth seed Daniil Medvedev came through against Gael Monfils 6-2 6-4, but was given a tough test by the French 37-year-old in the second set. Also read: Badminton: PV Sindhu, HS Prannoy advance to Round of 16 in Asia Championships Monfils led 4-1, however, Medvedev recovered and won five games in a row to avoid a third set, but not before a disagreement with the chair umpire Mohamed Lahyani. The Russian was clearly angry with a decision, whacking the umbrella over his seat, and when Lahyani said he would apologise if he was wrong, it only increased Medvedev's frustration. "How can you apologise, I lost the freaking game, it's a freaking sport man. You guys are getting ridiculous, with the Hawk Eye live you don't see anything," Medvedev said. After the game, Medvedev shook hands and apologised to the umpire, and later explained the situation. "I am happy I managed to at one moment try to stay calm, to get my composure, that's what I wanted to do more this year," he said. "There are going to be moments when I still go crazy... but I am 99% sure the ball was out. It's a pity because I would have won the game and maybe I win 6-2, but I am happy that even from 4-1, I managed to come back and win the set." Norwegian eighth seed Casper Ruud beat Chile's Alejandro Tabilo 6-2 6-4 and will meet Hubert Hurkacz in the third round after the Pole came through 7-5 7-6(4) against Roberto Bautista Agut.

Tennis: Defending champion Andrey Rublev out of Monte Carlo Masters, Jannik Sinner marches ahead

Jannik Sinner said he is enjoying every moment of his sensational start to the 2024 season after winning the Miami Open on Sunday for his third title of the year. The Italian thoroughly outplayed Daniil Medvedev in the semis and Grigor Dimitrov in the final to improve to 22-1 on the year and rise to a career-best world number two. "This is a special moment,"

Sinner said after beating Dimitrov 6-3 6-1 in the final for his second Masters 1000 title. "You never know if this is the last time or not. So you have to enjoy this for one day, and now a new chapter is coming, clay-court season is coming, so completely different. "Let's see how I will play from now on. But for sure, the hard-court season until now has been very good."

Behind an improved serve and textbook shot-making, Sinner has been on a roll this season, winning the Australian Open in January for what is expected to be the first of many Grand Slam titles. His only loss of the year came to Carlos Alcaraz in the semis at Indian Wells but after his triumph in South Florida, the Spaniard will now be looking up to his rival in the rankings come Monday.

"Being number two, it's an amazing feeling," Sinner said. "I never thought to come to this point. I come from a very normal family. My dad is still working, as my mom, too. For me sport is one thing and life is different."

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Sinner's coach Darren Cahill told reporters that the 22-year-old was loving life but also staying grounded. "He appreciates every single moment that is happening to him, but he's also got his feet on the ground knowing it's just a sport, it's just a&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;match," Cahill said. "Whilst he's professional in everything he does, he enjoys his life. He's a normal 22-year-old kid. There's a lot to learn from him, a lot of good to learn from both him and Carlos. I think they're very similar in many, many ways.

"That's why I think&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;is in great hands at the moment with the likes of those two and many other players coming through that are going to carry the torch through a generation we have been so fortunate to sit through the last 20 years. "It's important to have these types of sports people coming through."

Jannik Sinner said he is enjoying every moment of his sensational start to the 2024 season after winning the Miami Open on Sunday for his third title of the year.

Jannik Sinner said he is enjoying every moment of his sensational start to the 2024 season after winning the Miami Open on Sunday for his third title of the year. The Italian thoroughly outplayed Daniil Medvedev in the semis and Grigor Dimitrov in the final to improve to 22-1 on the year and rise to a career-best world number two. "This is a special moment," Sinner said after beating Dimitrov 6-3 6-1 in the final for his second Masters 1000 title. "You never know if this is the last time or not. So you have to enjoy this for one day, and now a new chapter is coming, clay-court season is coming, so completely different. "Let's see how I will play from now on. But for sure, the hard-court season until now has been very good." Behind an improved serve and textbook shot-making, Sinner has been on a roll this season, winning the Australian Open in January for what is expected to be the first of many Grand Slam titles. His only loss of the year came to Carlos Alcaraz in the semis at Indian Wells but after his triumph in South Florida, the Spaniard will now be looking up to his rival in the rankings come Monday. "Being number two, it's an amazing feeling," Sinner said. "I never thought to come to this point. I come from a very normal family. My dad is still working, as my mom, too. For me sport is one thing and life is different." Also read: Tennis: Italian Jannik Sinner beats Grigor Dimitrov to win Miami Open Sinner's coach Darren Cahill told reporters that the 22-year-old was loving life but also staying grounded. "He appreciates every single moment that is happening to him, but he's also got his feet on the ground knowing it's just a sport, it's just a tennis match," Cahill said. "Whilst he's professional in everything he does, he enjoys his life. He's a normal 22-year-old kid. There's a lot to learn from him, a lot of good to learn from both him and Carlos. I think they're very similar in many, many ways. "That's why I think tennis is in great hands at the moment with the likes of those two and many other players coming through that are going to carry the torch through a generation we have been so fortunate to sit through the last 20 years. "It's important to have these types of sports people coming through."

Tennis: Italian star Jannik Sinner relishing the moment after splendid Miami Open victory

Jannik Sinner dominated Grigor Dimitrov 6-3 6-1 on Sunday (March 31) to win the Miami Open for the first time and rise to world number two.

The Italian fired a passing shot howling by his Bulgarian opponent for a crucial break in the first set and captured the opener with a brilliant backhand winner that brought the fans at Hard Rock Stadium to their feet.

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The 32-year-old Dimitrov, who has experienced a career renaissance this season, had no answer for Sinner's flawless game in the second set and was broken again when his backhand landed in the net to fall behind 3-1.

Dimitrov badly missed an overhead to hand Sinner the 5-1 lead and did not even try to chase down Sinner's backhand winner on championship point.

Australian Open champion Sinner, who scooped a second Masters 1000 title following his success in Canada last year, has won 25 of his last 26 matches and has only lost three times since last year's U.S. Open.

The 22-year-old will take over the world number two ranking from his rival Carlos Alcaraz on Monday and said he knows that he has a target on his back heading into the claycourt season.

Jannik Sinner dominated Grigor Dimitrov 6-3 6-1 on Sunday (March 31) to win the Miami Open for the first time and rise to world number two. The Italian fired a passing shot howling by his Bulgarian opponent for a crucial break in the first set and captured the opener with a brilliant backhand winner that brought the fans at Hard Rock Stadium to their feet.

Jannik Sinner dominated Grigor Dimitrov 6-3 6-1 on Sunday (March 31) to win the Miami Open for the first time and rise to world number two. The Italian fired a passing shot howling by his Bulgarian opponent for a crucial break in the first set and captured the opener with a brilliant backhand winner that brought the fans at Hard Rock Stadium to their feet. Also Read: Premier League: Manchester City, Arsenal play goalless draw, help Liverpool secure no. 1 spot The 32-year-old Dimitrov, who has experienced a career renaissance this season, had no answer for Sinner's flawless game in the second set and was broken again when his backhand landed in the net to fall behind 3-1. Dimitrov badly missed an overhead to hand Sinner the 5-1 lead and did not even try to chase down Sinner's backhand winner on championship point. Australian Open champion Sinner, who scooped a second Masters 1000 title following his success in Canada last year, has won 25 of his last 26 matches and has only lost three times since last year's U.S. Open. The 22-year-old will take over the world number two ranking from his rival Carlos Alcaraz on Monday and said he knows that he has a target on his back heading into the claycourt season.

Tennis: Italian Jannik Sinner beats Grigor Dimitrov to win Miami Open

Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov defeated Alexander Zverev 6-4 6-7(4) 6-4 in a thrilling contest on Friday to reach the Miami Open final, where he will face world number three Jannik Sinner.

Dimitrov, the 11th seed, utilised his forehand to devastating effect throughout the match, making just three unforced errors to take the first set.

Fourth seed Zverev, however, regained some control in a tight second set, serving with accuracy to deny Dimitrov any opportunities to break before clinching the tie-break to level the match.

Dimitrov took his tally of winners up to 44 in the decider as he defended a break point and then took the lead at 4-3, before confidently settling the match on serve for his first win over Zverev since 2014.

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"It was like a dogfight on both ends, we really went after each other," said Dimitrov, whose victory will see him return to the top 10 for the first time since 2018. "He upped his game in the second set, in the third set he also had a chance but I served well."

In Sunday's final, Dimitrov will face Sinner, who powered past defending Miami Open champion Daniil Medvedev 6-1 6-2 to reach the final for the second year in a row.

<h2>SINNER'S HOT STREAK CONTINUES</h2>

When Medvedev beat Sinner to claim the Miami title 12 months ago, he extended his head-to-head record over the Italian to 6-0.

But since then, the second seed has enjoyed the upper hand as he has delivered the knockout blow on five successive contests, including a five-set thriller in the Australian Open final earlier this year.

There was no such drama on Hard Rock Stadium court as Sinner delivered a clinical performance to end Medvedev's challenge in 69 minutes.

"I felt great on court today, usually the more you go on in a tournament the more comfortable I feel and I'm very happy about today's performance," Sinner said after reaching the Miami final for a third time in four years. "I don't think Daniil felt too well today he made a lot of mistakes he usually doesn't make.

"For me it is an important tournament if I can get it good, if not I had another great chance."

Sinner, whose only loss this season was a semi-final defeat to Carlos Alcaraz in Indian Wells two weeks ago, becomes the first player this season to reach three finals.

The Italian had Medvedev under pressure right from the gun with three break chances on the Russian's opening service game converting on a blistering forehand winner for a 2-0 lead.

The third seeded Russian would finally hold serve at 5-1 but only delayed the inevitable as Sinner bagged a high-quality opening set without committing a single unforced error.

Baffled and lost for ideas, Medvedev could do nothing to slow the rampaging Sinner who kept his foot firmly on the gas with another break to open the second set that left the world number four staring across the net with a stunned look.

Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov defeated Alexander Zverev 6-4 6-7(4) 6-4 in a thrilling contest on Friday to reach the Miami Open final, where he will face world number three Jannik Sinner.

Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov defeated Alexander Zverev 6-4 6-7(4) 6-4 in a thrilling contest on Friday to reach the Miami Open final, where he will face world number three Jannik Sinner. Dimitrov, the 11th seed, utilised his forehand to devastating effect throughout the match, making just three unforced errors to take the first set. Fourth seed Zverev, however, regained some control in a tight second set, serving with accuracy to deny Dimitrov any opportunities to break before clinching the tie-break to level the match. Dimitrov took his tally of winners up to 44 in the decider as he defended a break point and then took the lead at 4-3, before confidently settling the match on serve for his first win over Zverev since 2014. ALSO READ: Tennis: Andy Murray pulls out of Monte Carlo, Munich due to ankle injury "It was like a dogfight on both ends, we really went after each other," said Dimitrov, whose victory will see him return to the top 10 for the first time since 2018. "He upped his game in the second set, in the third set he also had a chance but I served well." In Sunday's final, Dimitrov will face Sinner, who powered past defending Miami Open champion Daniil Medvedev 6-1 6-2 to reach the final for the second year in a row. SINNER'S HOT STREAK CONTINUES When Medvedev beat Sinner to claim the Miami title 12 months ago, he extended his head-to-head record over the Italian to 6-0. But since then, the second seed has enjoyed the upper hand as he has delivered the knockout blow on five successive contests, including a five-set thriller in the Australian Open final earlier this year. There was no such drama on Hard Rock Stadium court as Sinner delivered a clinical performance to end Medvedev's challenge in 69 minutes. "I felt great on court today, usually the more you go on in a tournament the more comfortable I feel and I'm very happy about today's performance," Sinner said after reaching the Miami final for a third time in four years. "I don't think Daniil felt too well today he made a lot of mistakes he usually doesn't make. "For me it is an important tournament if I can get it good, if not I had another great chance." Sinner, whose only loss this season was a semi-final defeat to Carlos Alcaraz in Indian Wells two weeks ago, becomes the first player this season to reach three finals. The Italian had Medvedev under pressure right from the gun with three break chances on the Russian's opening service game converting on a blistering forehand winner for a 2-0 lead. The third seeded Russian would finally hold serve at 5-1 but only delayed the inevitable as Sinner bagged a high-quality opening set without committing a single unforced error. Baffled and lost for ideas, Medvedev could do nothing to slow the rampaging Sinner who kept his foot firmly on the gas with another break to open the second set that left the world number four staring across the net with a stunned look.

Miami Open: Grigor Dimitrov continues purple patch, beats Zverev in semis to set up final's clash with Sinner

Jannik Sinner rolled past Tomas Machac 6-4 6-2 on Wednesday to reach the semi-finals of the Miami Open, where he will face Russian Daniil Medvedev in a tantalising rematch of the Australian Open final. Third seed Medvedev booked his place in the last four with a 6-2 7-6(7) win over Nicolas Jarry. Sinner had to fight back from two sets down at Melbourne Park in January to beat Medvedev and capture his first Grand Slam title.

"It's going to be a tactical match, potentially," second seed Sinner told reporters. "I have to be ready if he starts off in a similar way as in Australia. "I have to be ready and trying to understand it before. Then maybe he's going to change a couple of things. It's going to be an interesting test for me."

The opening set of the first quarter-final played in humid conditions hinged on a Machac service game at 3-3 where the unseeded Czech's forehand missed its target on break point to give Sinner a 4-3 lead. The Italian wrapped up the set with a love hold when Machac was unable to put a second serve back in play.

In the second set, Machac's forehand sailed long to give Sinner the break and a 2-1 lead. Sinner broke again with a backhand winner for 4-1 and closed out the contest with a serve out wide.

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"I didn't exactly know what to expect today," Sinner said after his 20th win of the year. "The first games I was looking a little bit what kind of tactics could work or not ... Today I played good, especially in the important moments of the match."

Sinner has lost only one match this year, falling in the semi-finals of Indian Wells to eventual champion Carlos Alcaraz. Defending Miami champion Medvedev will represent another tricky test as the Russian has been in imperious form in the tournament, reaching the semis without dropping a set.

He was pushed hard in the second set of his encounter with Chilean Jarry but came through in the tiebreak, clinching on his third match point. "The first set I feel like I was playing a good level, nothing like extra, and it was enough to win," Medvedev said. "Tough rallies and tough points. He served better and it was a matter of a few points on the tiebreak, like it is sometimes in&nbsp;tennis... Happy that I managed to win."

Medvedev looked ahead to a great challenge against Sinner. "He's playing better and better. He's confident. Even some matches I watch on TV and he's in a little trouble he manages to find solutions and that's what champions do," Medvedev added.

Jannik Sinner rolled past Tomas Machac 6-4 6-2 on Wednesday to reach the semi-finals of the Miami Open, where he will face Russian Daniil Medvedev in a tantalising rematch of the Australian Open final.

Jannik Sinner rolled past Tomas Machac 6-4 6-2 on Wednesday to reach the semi-finals of the Miami Open, where he will face Russian Daniil Medvedev in a tantalising rematch of the Australian Open final. Third seed Medvedev booked his place in the last four with a 6-2 7-6(7) win over Nicolas Jarry. Sinner had to fight back from two sets down at Melbourne Park in January to beat Medvedev and capture his first Grand Slam title. "It's going to be a tactical match, potentially," second seed Sinner told reporters. "I have to be ready if he starts off in a similar way as in Australia. "I have to be ready and trying to understand it before. Then maybe he's going to change a couple of things. It's going to be an interesting test for me." The opening set of the first quarter-final played in humid conditions hinged on a Machac service game at 3-3 where the unseeded Czech's forehand missed its target on break point to give Sinner a 4-3 lead. The Italian wrapped up the set with a love hold when Machac was unable to put a second serve back in play. In the second set, Machac's forehand sailed long to give Sinner the break and a 2-1 lead. Sinner broke again with a backhand winner for 4-1 and closed out the contest with a serve out wide. Also read: Novak Djokovic parts ways with coach Goran Ivanisevic amid tough start to 2024 season "I didn't exactly know what to expect today," Sinner said after his 20th win of the year. "The first games I was looking a little bit what kind of tactics could work or not ... Today I played good, especially in the important moments of the match." Sinner has lost only one match this year, falling in the semi-finals of Indian Wells to eventual champion Carlos Alcaraz. Defending Miami champion Medvedev will represent another tricky test as the Russian has been in imperious form in the tournament, reaching the semis without dropping a set. He was pushed hard in the second set of his encounter with Chilean Jarry but came through in the tiebreak, clinching on his third match point. "The first set I feel like I was playing a good level, nothing like extra, and it was enough to win," Medvedev said. "Tough rallies and tough points. He served better and it was a matter of a few points on the tiebreak, like it is sometimes in tennis... Happy that I managed to win." Medvedev looked ahead to a great challenge against Sinner. "He's playing better and better. He's confident. Even some matches I watch on TV and he's in a little trouble he manages to find solutions and that's what champions do," Medvedev added.

Tennis: Daniil Medvedev, Jannik Sinner set for Miami Open semifinal face-off

Second seed Jannik Sinner pulled off a Miami Open great escape by coming back from the brink with a gritty 5-7 7-5 6-1 win over Tallon Griekspoor to move into the fourth round on Sunday. In contrast defending champion and third seed Daniil Medvedev had mostly drama free passage taking down Briton Cameron Norrie 7-5 6-1.

The final that fans are hoping to see next weekend between Sinner and top seed Carlos Alcaraz seemed in danger when big-hitting Dutchman Griekspoor took the opening set and was serving for a 6-5 lead in the second.

But second seed Sinner, displaying some of the steel that has made him a Grand Slam champion, came through in the clutch by securing his first break of the match when he needed it most to go up 6-5 and then held serve to level the contest at 1-1.

After flirting with danger, the Italian took command by breaking the 26th-ranked Griekspoor at the first opportunity in the third set and broke a second time to go 5-1 ahead before serving out the match with a forehand winner into an open court.

"I think even the first set was really close, but it went away,” said Sinner, who will next play the winner of the match between Chris O’Connell and Martin Damm. "Mentally I tried to stay strong, which I did, and I was in a tough situation today. "It’s been a tough day for me, but very happy about the result."

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There was no escape for sixth-seeded Dane Holger Rune who was swept aside 6-1 6-1 by Fabian Marozsan in 59 minutes. The Hungarian, known for his delicate touch and one of best drop shots in the game, struck 23 winners and converted all five of his break opportunities while Rune was 0-3 on his chances.

Ranked 57th, danger man Marozsan is quickly developing a reputation as a giant killer, having last year knocked off then world number two Alcaraz in the third round of the Rome Masters, which was widely rated as the upset of the year.

The 24-year-old also took down eighth seed Casper Ruud at the Shanghai Masters, reaching at least the last 16 in all three Masters 1000 events he has played. Blocking Marozsan's path to the fourth round is Australian Alexei Popyrin, who advanced with a 6-4 6-4 victory over Czech Jiri Lehecka.

"It is a great feeling to play at the highest level," Marozsan told reporters. "I try to play my best tennis and today against a top 10 player and I am enjoying my time here."

After Americans Taylor Fritz, Tommy Paul and Frances Tiafoe all exited in the second round, Ben Shelton is the top seeded U.S. player left in the draw, the 16th seed making the third round with a 6-3 6-4 win over Spanish wildcard Martin Landaluce.

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<h2>GAUFF, SWIATEK ALSO ADVANCE AHEAD</h2>

It took Coco Gauff a while to wake up on Sunday, but when she did it was lights out for Oceane Dodin as the American third seed stormed back from 4-2 down to earn a 6-4 6-0 win and a place in the Miami Open fourth round.

World number one Iga Swiatek was working the night shift at Hard Rock stadium but also had trouble getting in gear before taming Czech 26th seed Linda Noskova 6-7(7) 6-4 6-4 to keep her bid for a second "Sunshine Double" - back-to-back wins at Indian Wells and Miami Open - on track.

While Swiatek was not at her best, the effort was enough to improve her season record to 22-2 and set up a meeting with 14th seed Ekaterina Alexandrova in the round of 16.

"Sometimes we have matches like that and we need to figure out how to close them anyway," Swiatek told reporters. "For sure it wasn't easy. "There were just many ups and downs. I'm happy that after the first set I had a better idea on what to do, and I just tried to do that in important moments."

Gauff sleepwalked through much of her opening set in the first match on Hard Rock Stadium court, but when the alarm went off the U.S. Open champion swept 10 straight games to stun the French lucky loser.

With Gauff pouring on the pressure, Dodin began to crumble, piling up nine double faults and 26 unforced errors compared to just seven by her 20-year-old opponent.

"She's a big hitter. She likes the game on her terms," Gauff told reporters. "I was trying my best to get deep in the court and just weather the storm. "Overall I feel good so far. "I'm trying to improve with each match. Definitely playing a little bit better than I was last week in Indian Wells."

With the win, Gauff matched her best Miami result and will await the winner between Caroline Garcia and Naomi Osaka for a place in the quarter-finals.

After a disappointing day for the American men on Saturday when three of the top four seeds exited, the U.S. women picked up the flag with fifth seed Jessica Pegula and 20th seed Emma Navarro also advancing. Pegula, who has reached the Miami Open semi-finals for the last two years, took another step towards another appearance in the last four with a 7-5 6-4 win over Canadian Leylah Fernandez.

Navarro, coming off a quarter-final run last week at Indian Wells where she beat world number two Aryna Sabalenka and 17th ranked Elina Svitolina, continued her superb form in Miami with a 6-2 3-6 6-0 third round win over Italian 12th seed Jasmine Paolini.

In other action, 23rd seeded Frenchwoman Caroline Garcia came out on top 7-6(4) 7-5 in a third round slugfest with Japan's Osaka that featured a total of 28 aces. Helped by 16 aces, Garcia has now won two matches at a tournament for the first time since the China Open last October and will next meet another big-hitter third seed Coco Gauff for a place in the quarter-finals.

Second seed Jannik Sinner pulled off a Miami Open great escape by coming back from the brink with a gritty 5-7 7-5 6-1 win over Tallon Griekspoor to move into the fourth round on Sunday.

Second seed Jannik Sinner pulled off a Miami Open great escape by coming back from the brink with a gritty 5-7 7-5 6-1 win over Tallon Griekspoor to move into the fourth round on Sunday. In contrast defending champion and third seed Daniil Medvedev had mostly drama free passage taking down Briton Cameron Norrie 7-5 6-1. The final that fans are hoping to see next weekend between Sinner and top seed Carlos Alcaraz seemed in danger when big-hitting Dutchman Griekspoor took the opening set and was serving for a 6-5 lead in the second. But second seed Sinner, displaying some of the steel that has made him a Grand Slam champion, came through in the clutch by securing his first break of the match when he needed it most to go up 6-5 and then held serve to level the contest at 1-1. After flirting with danger, the Italian took command by breaking the 26th-ranked Griekspoor at the first opportunity in the third set and broke a second time to go 5-1 ahead before serving out the match with a forehand winner into an open court. "I think even the first set was really close, but it went away,” said Sinner, who will next play the winner of the match between Chris O’Connell and Martin Damm. "Mentally I tried to stay strong, which I did, and I was in a tough situation today. "It’s been a tough day for me, but very happy about the result." Also read: Tennis: Former world number one Andy Murray gives fans an effort to remember in Miami swan song There was no escape for sixth-seeded Dane Holger Rune who was swept aside 6-1 6-1 by Fabian Marozsan in 59 minutes. The Hungarian, known for his delicate touch and one of best drop shots in the game, struck 23 winners and converted all five of his break opportunities while Rune was 0-3 on his chances. Ranked 57th, danger man Marozsan is quickly developing a reputation as a giant killer, having last year knocked off then world number two Alcaraz in the third round of the Rome Masters, which was widely rated as the upset of the year. The 24-year-old also took down eighth seed Casper Ruud at the Shanghai Masters, reaching at least the last 16 in all three Masters 1000 events he has played. Blocking Marozsan's path to the fourth round is Australian Alexei Popyrin, who advanced with a 6-4 6-4 victory over Czech Jiri Lehecka. "It is a great feeling to play at the highest level," Marozsan told reporters. "I try to play my best tennis and today against a top 10 player and I am enjoying my time here." After Americans Taylor Fritz, Tommy Paul and Frances Tiafoe all exited in the second round, Ben Shelton is the top seeded U.S. player left in the draw, the 16th seed making the third round with a 6-3 6-4 win over Spanish wildcard Martin Landaluce. Also read: George Russell’s terrifying scream for help as his Mercedes flips during horror Australian GP crash GAUFF, SWIATEK ALSO ADVANCE AHEAD It took Coco Gauff a while to wake up on Sunday, but when she did it was lights out for Oceane Dodin as the American third seed stormed back from 4-2 down to earn a 6-4 6-0 win and a place in the Miami Open fourth round. World number one Iga Swiatek was working the night shift at Hard Rock stadium but also had trouble getting in gear before taming Czech 26th seed Linda Noskova 6-7(7) 6-4 6-4 to keep her bid for a second "Sunshine Double" - back-to-back wins at Indian Wells and Miami Open - on track. While Swiatek was not at her best, the effort was enough to improve her season record to 22-2 and set up a meeting with 14th seed Ekaterina Alexandrova in the round of 16. "Sometimes we have matches like that and we need to figure out how to close them anyway," Swiatek told reporters. "For sure it wasn't easy. "There were just many ups and downs. I'm happy that after the first set I had a better idea on what to do, and I just tried to do that in important moments." Gauff sleepwalked through much of her opening set in the first match on Hard Rock Stadium court, but when the alarm went off the U.S. Open champion swept 10 straight games to stun the French lucky loser. With Gauff pouring on the pressure, Dodin began to crumble, piling up nine double faults and 26 unforced errors compared to just seven by her 20-year-old opponent. "She's a big hitter. She likes the game on her terms," Gauff told reporters. "I was trying my best to get deep in the court and just weather the storm. "Overall I feel good so far. "I'm trying to improve with each match. Definitely playing a little bit better than I was last week in Indian Wells." With the win, Gauff matched her best Miami result and will await the winner between Caroline Garcia and Naomi Osaka for a place in the quarter-finals. After a disappointing day for the American men on Saturday when three of the top four seeds exited, the U.S. women picked up the flag with fifth seed Jessica Pegula and 20th seed Emma Navarro also advancing. Pegula, who has reached the Miami Open semi-finals for the last two years, took another step towards another appearance in the last four with a 7-5 6-4 win over Canadian Leylah Fernandez. Navarro, coming off a quarter-final run last week at Indian Wells where she beat world number two Aryna Sabalenka and 17th ranked Elina Svitolina, continued her superb form in Miami with a 6-2 3-6 6-0 third round win over Italian 12th seed Jasmine Paolini. In other action, 23rd seeded Frenchwoman Caroline Garcia came out on top 7-6(4) 7-5 in a third round slugfest with Japan's Osaka that featured a total of 28 aces. Helped by 16 aces, Garcia has now won two matches at a tournament for the first time since the China Open last October and will next meet another big-hitter third seed Coco Gauff for a place in the quarter-finals.

Tennis: Aus Open winner Jannik Sinner claims thriller in Miami Open, Gauff & Swiatek also move ahead

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz of Spain and Russian fourth seed Daniil Medvedev will clash in Sunday's final of the Indian Wells in a rematch of last year's summit clash after both prevailed in intense three-setters on Saturday.

Alcaraz came from behind to beat Jannik Sinner 1-6 6-3 6-2 before Medvedev edged out American Tommy Paul 1-6 7-6(3) 6-2 in the second semi-final.

Australian Open champion Sinner has been the hottest player on tour this year and looked poised to run away with the match when the Spaniard's forehand went long to end the 34-minute opening set, which was halted by a three-hour rain delay.

Alcaraz would finally break serve with a powerful forehand that set up a put-away volley for a 3-1 second set lead and hit a drop shot even the speedy Sinner did not try to race down to force a decider between the young rivals.

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With Sinner serving in the third set, the Italian dove to keep a ball in play on break point near the net, his hands scraping along the gritty Indian Wells hard court.

Alcaraz's athletic volley secured the break and Sinner appeared to be bothered by his left hand after the exchange.

Alcaraz went up a double break and 4-1 on a forehand wide by a suddenly error-prone Sinner and sealed the win with a crosscourt forehand winner to keep Sinner from taking his world number two ranking and denying him a 20th consecutive win going back to last year.

"I stayed strong mentally and that's very important," Alcaraz said after ending his opponent's winning streak this season at 16 matches. "I had to run more, defend better than I did in the first set. Put more balls in. Stay strong on the court."

Medvedev eked out a similar comeback win against Paul, who was quick off the blocks, dropping just one game in the opening set before the Russian bounced back.

Paul saved two set points to force a tie-break in the second set but Medvedev won five straight points to draw level with him.

Paul was broken from 40-0 in the first game of the third set, which was pretty much a one-sided affair as Medvedev closed out the match to stay on course to avenge his loss to Alcaraz in last year's final.

"He played an unbelievable first set," Medvedev said of his opponent. "So, I was like, OK, if I want to win I just have to try to do a little bit better to find the shot that's going to make him in trouble. I found some, especially on his serve."

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz of Spain and Russian fourth seed Daniil Medvedev will clash in Sunday's final of the Indian Wells in a rematch of last year's summit clash after both prevailed in intense three-setters on Saturday.

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz of Spain and Russian fourth seed Daniil Medvedev will clash in Sunday's final of the Indian Wells in a rematch of last year's summit clash after both prevailed in intense three-setters on Saturday. Alcaraz came from behind to beat Jannik Sinner 1-6 6-3 6-2 before Medvedev edged out American Tommy Paul 1-6 7-6(3) 6-2 in the second semi-final. Australian Open champion Sinner has been the hottest player on tour this year and looked poised to run away with the match when the Spaniard's forehand went long to end the 34-minute opening set, which was halted by a three-hour rain delay. Alcaraz would finally break serve with a powerful forehand that set up a put-away volley for a 3-1 second set lead and hit a drop shot even the speedy Sinner did not try to race down to force a decider between the young rivals. ALSO READ: Rugby: Ireland keep Six Nations Cup with thrilling win over Scotland With Sinner serving in the third set, the Italian dove to keep a ball in play on break point near the net, his hands scraping along the gritty Indian Wells hard court. Alcaraz's athletic volley secured the break and Sinner appeared to be bothered by his left hand after the exchange. Alcaraz went up a double break and 4-1 on a forehand wide by a suddenly error-prone Sinner and sealed the win with a crosscourt forehand winner to keep Sinner from taking his world number two ranking and denying him a 20th consecutive win going back to last year. "I stayed strong mentally and that's very important," Alcaraz said after ending his opponent's winning streak this season at 16 matches. "I had to run more, defend better than I did in the first set. Put more balls in. Stay strong on the court." Medvedev eked out a similar comeback win against Paul, who was quick off the blocks, dropping just one game in the opening set before the Russian bounced back. Paul saved two set points to force a tie-break in the second set but Medvedev won five straight points to draw level with him. Paul was broken from 40-0 in the first game of the third set, which was pretty much a one-sided affair as Medvedev closed out the match to stay on course to avenge his loss to Alcaraz in last year's final. "He played an unbelievable first set," Medvedev said of his opponent. "So, I was like, OK, if I want to win I just have to try to do a little bit better to find the shot that's going to make him in trouble. I found some, especially on his serve."

Tennis: Carlos Alcaraz to meet Daniil Medvedev in Indian Wells final

Third seeded Jannik Sinner earned his 17th straight match win Sunday (March 10) with a defeat of 25th-seeded Jan-Lennard Struff while fifth seeded Russian Andrey Rublev was sent packing by Czech 32nd seed Jiri Lehecka.

Italian Sinner needed just 74 minutes to get past German Struff 6-3 6-4 and will next face 16th seed Ben Shelton or 22nd seed Francisco Cerundolo, who meet in Sunday's late night match in the California desert.

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Lehecka, the lowest seeded player on the men's side at 32, converted nine aces to Rublev's one and took advantage of two of his four break chances to win 6-4 6-4 and advance to a Round of 16 meeting with 11th seeded Stefanos Tsitsipas.

Alcaraz moves ahead too

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz booked his spot in the Indian Wells Open last 16 following a straight sets victory against Canadian 31st seed Felix Auger-Aliassime on Sunday (March 10).

The Spanish second seed eased to a 6-2 6-3 win and will next meet Hungary’s Florian Marozsan, who dispatched Brazilian qualifier Thiago Seyboth Wild 6-2 6-2. Alcaraz suffered a surprise 6-3 7-6(4) loss to Marozsan in their only previous meeting last year in Rome on clay.

Australian 10th seed Alex de Minaur defeated 20th seed Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan 7-5 6-0, while Greece’s Stefanos Tsitsipas, seeded 11th, got the better of American hopeful and 18th seed Frances Tiafoe 6-3 6-3.

Third seeded Jannik Sinner earned his 17th straight match win Sunday (March 10) with a defeat of 25th-seeded Jan-Lennard Struff while fifth seeded Russian Andrey Rublev was sent packing by Czech 32nd seed Jiri Lehecka.

Third seeded Jannik Sinner earned his 17th straight match win Sunday (March 10) with a defeat of 25th-seeded Jan-Lennard Struff while fifth seeded Russian Andrey Rublev was sent packing by Czech 32nd seed Jiri Lehecka. Italian Sinner needed just 74 minutes to get past German Struff 6-3 6-4 and will next face 16th seed Ben Shelton or 22nd seed Francisco Cerundolo, who meet in Sunday's late night match in the California desert. Also Read: Premier League: Liverpool-Manchester City play draw at Anfield as Arsenal remain on top Lehecka, the lowest seeded player on the men's side at 32, converted nine aces to Rublev's one and took advantage of two of his four break chances to win 6-4 6-4 and advance to a Round of 16 meeting with 11th seeded Stefanos Tsitsipas. Alcaraz moves ahead too Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz booked his spot in the Indian Wells Open last 16 following a straight sets victory against Canadian 31st seed Felix Auger-Aliassime on Sunday (March 10). The Spanish second seed eased to a 6-2 6-3 win and will next meet Hungary’s Florian Marozsan, who dispatched Brazilian qualifier Thiago Seyboth Wild 6-2 6-2. Alcaraz suffered a surprise 6-3 7-6(4) loss to Marozsan in their only previous meeting last year in Rome on clay. Australian 10th seed Alex de Minaur defeated 20th seed Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan 7-5 6-0, while Greece’s Stefanos Tsitsipas, seeded 11th, got the better of American hopeful and 18th seed Frances Tiafoe 6-3 6-3.

Tennis: Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz move forward in Indian Wells; Rublev out

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