The Rotterdam title may pale in comparison to winning the Australian Open Grand Slam but Jannik Sinner said his victory in the ATP 500 event was still important to him after the Italian rose to a career-high number three in the world rankings. Sinner, who lifted his first major at Melbourne Park by defeating Daniil Medvedev in the final, stretched his winning run in 2024 to 12 matches with a 7-5 6-4 victory over Alex de Minaur in the Rotterdam final on Sunday.

The 22-year-old's second trophy of the season means he will leapfrog Medvedev to number three when the rankings are updated later on Monday. "Every time you win a title, it doesn't matter how big, it means a lot," Sinner said. "I had a bit more attention (as Australian Open champion), but when you earn something, you have to deal with that. I felt like I was trying to put 100% effort into everything I've done and that's the result of this week. "It's going to start again from zero at Indian Wells, so I'm already trying to improve. Let's see what's coming."

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Sinner will look to gain ground on world number two and defending Indian Wells champion Carlos Alcaraz in the hardcourt tournament next month. "My team, we did a really good job a few weeks ago and now we did a very good job here. I'm really proud of the level I played throughout the week," he said.

"We've been in tough situations but we handled it the right way. We'll always try to improve, it's the most important."

The Rotterdam title may pale in comparison to winning the Australian Open Grand Slam but Jannik Sinner said his victory in the ATP 500 event was still important to him after the Italian rose to a career-high number three in the world rankings.

The Rotterdam title may pale in comparison to winning the Australian Open Grand Slam but Jannik Sinner said his victory in the ATP 500 event was still important to him after the Italian rose to a career-high number three in the world rankings. Sinner, who lifted his first major at Melbourne Park by defeating Daniil Medvedev in the final, stretched his winning run in 2024 to 12 matches with a 7-5 6-4 victory over Alex de Minaur in the Rotterdam final on Sunday. The 22-year-old's second trophy of the season means he will leapfrog Medvedev to number three when the rankings are updated later on Monday. "Every time you win a title, it doesn't matter how big, it means a lot," Sinner said. "I had a bit more attention (as Australian Open champion), but when you earn something, you have to deal with that. I felt like I was trying to put 100% effort into everything I've done and that's the result of this week. "It's going to start again from zero at Indian Wells, so I'm already trying to improve. Let's see what's coming." Also read: Australian equestrian criticised for wearing mankini costume will be allowed to compete in Paris Olympics Sinner will look to gain ground on world number two and defending Indian Wells champion Carlos Alcaraz in the hardcourt tournament next month. "My team, we did a really good job a few weeks ago and now we did a very good job here. I'm really proud of the level I played throughout the week," he said. "We've been in tough situations but we handled it the right way. We'll always try to improve, it's the most important."

Tennis: Italy's Jannik Sinner savours Rotterdam success after Australian Open high

Jannik Sinner was not about to announce the end of the "Big Three" after his breakthrough Grand Slam triumph at the Australian Open but the 22-year-old Italian does believe&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;needs a fresh generation of champions. His five-set victory over Daniil Medvedev on Sunday made him the first Melbourne Park winner in 10 years not named Novak Djokovic, Rafa Nadal or Roger Federer - the trio of multiple champions who have dominated&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;for two decades.

Djokovic's incredible success into his mid-thirties has delayed the decline of the "Big Three" but with Federer now retired and Nadal looking set to join him this year, a huge gap is opening up at the top of the game. With his Melbourne triumph, Sinner has joined 20-year-old Carlos Alcaraz in the Grand Slam winners' club, spearheading a clutch of players of a similar age coming through.

"It's quite unpredictable what's coming in the future but still it's nice to be part of this generation," Sinner said as he was photographed with his trophy in Melbourne's Botanical Gardens on Monday. "I think the next generation is something that this sport needs and it's also a little bit of a game-changer."

Sinner was the youngest Australian Open men's champion since Djokovic won the first of his 10 Melbourne Park titles in 2008 and even though he beat the 24-times Grand Slam champion in the semi-finals, the Italian was not inviting comparisons.

"He is a different league," he said. "I'm just happy I have this trophy for this year and then we see what's coming. There is still a lot of work to do but I will enjoy my process and then we see what I can achieve in the future."

As impressive as the clean hitting that has taken Sinner into the elite of men's&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;was his cool demeanour on court on Sunday as he withstood an early barrage from Medvedev before rallying from two sets down to clinch the title.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-jannik-sinners-thrilling-comeback-stuns-daniil-medvedev-to-take-home-maiden-grand-slam-title-684556">Australian Open: Jannik Sinner makes thrilling comeback, stuns Medvedev to win maiden Grand Slam title</a>

Although he fell to the Rod Laver Arena court after converting championship point, there was no huge outpouring of emotions as Sinner celebrated the biggest victory of his career. "There were so many emotions in my head and the hard work and the sacrifices I've done throughout my career," he explained.

"Sharing this moment with my team was maybe the best feeling I've had until now. "It's great emotions, I was just happy, yesterday I still maybe couldn't believe and now I'm starting to realise it, so it's a great feeling."

Sinner said he celebrated his dream start to the new season in understated fashion - a meal with his close-knit team in the early hours of Monday morning - but said it would be straight back to work as he looked to build on his breakthrough.

"Obviously winning the tournament is something unbelievable," he said. "I'm really happy how I performed here and let's see what's coming in the future."

Jannik Sinner was not about to announce the end of the "Big Three" after his breakthrough Grand Slam triumph at the Australian Open but the 22-year-old Italian does believe tennis needs a fresh generation of champions.

Jannik Sinner was not about to announce the end of the "Big Three" after his breakthrough Grand Slam triumph at the Australian Open but the 22-year-old Italian does believe tennis needs a fresh generation of champions. His five-set victory over Daniil Medvedev on Sunday made him the first Melbourne Park winner in 10 years not named Novak Djokovic, Rafa Nadal or Roger Federer - the trio of multiple champions who have dominated tennis for two decades. Djokovic's incredible success into his mid-thirties has delayed the decline of the "Big Three" but with Federer now retired and Nadal looking set to join him this year, a huge gap is opening up at the top of the game. With his Melbourne triumph, Sinner has joined 20-year-old Carlos Alcaraz in the Grand Slam winners' club, spearheading a clutch of players of a similar age coming through. "It's quite unpredictable what's coming in the future but still it's nice to be part of this generation," Sinner said as he was photographed with his trophy in Melbourne's Botanical Gardens on Monday. "I think the next generation is something that this sport needs and it's also a little bit of a game-changer." Sinner was the youngest Australian Open men's champion since Djokovic won the first of his 10 Melbourne Park titles in 2008 and even though he beat the 24-times Grand Slam champion in the semi-finals, the Italian was not inviting comparisons. "He is a different league," he said. "I'm just happy I have this trophy for this year and then we see what's coming. There is still a lot of work to do but I will enjoy my process and then we see what I can achieve in the future." As impressive as the clean hitting that has taken Sinner into the elite of men's tennis was his cool demeanour on court on Sunday as he withstood an early barrage from Medvedev before rallying from two sets down to clinch the title. Also read: Australian Open: Jannik Sinner makes thrilling comeback, stuns Medvedev to win maiden Grand Slam title Although he fell to the Rod Laver Arena court after converting championship point, there was no huge outpouring of emotions as Sinner celebrated the biggest victory of his career. "There were so many emotions in my head and the hard work and the sacrifices I've done throughout my career," he explained. "Sharing this moment with my team was maybe the best feeling I've had until now. "It's great emotions, I was just happy, yesterday I still maybe couldn't believe and now I'm starting to realise it, so it's a great feeling." Sinner said he celebrated his dream start to the new season in understated fashion - a meal with his close-knit team in the early hours of Monday morning - but said it would be straight back to work as he looked to build on his breakthrough. "Obviously winning the tournament is something unbelievable," he said. "I'm really happy how I performed here and let's see what's coming in the future."

Australian Open 2024: Tennis needs the next generation, says Grand Slam champion Jannik Sinner

Italian Jannik Sinner produced a monumental comeback in the Australian Open final on Sunday (Jan 28) after he beat Russian Daniil Medvedev at the Rod Laver Arena. Sinner, playing against the former US Open champion came back from two sets down to win 3-6, 3-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-3 and clinch his maiden Grand Slam title. The defeat for Medvedev was his third at the Australian Open having also lost in the 2021 and 2022 final to Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal respectively. The win against Medvedev also means that only for the second time in 19 years there has been a winner other than Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer.

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<h2>Sinner sweats to win Australian Open</h2>

In a contest that lasted over three hours, the 22-year-old was at the receiving end of a great show from Medvedev in the opening two sets and lost 3-6, 3-6&nbsp;before mounting the comeback. Having been broken three times during the opening two sets, Sinner was under pressure to hold his serve. However, he showed nerves of steel to mount a comeback.

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In the third set with both players reluctant to lose their serve, it was the decisive 10th game where Sinner capitalised. With Medvedev serving stay in the set, Sinner broke his serve to pocket the whole thing 6-4. Sinner, by winning the set on Medvedev's serve was handed a realistic advantage of serving first in the fourth set.

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In a Deja Vu moment in the fourth set, it was again the 10th game where Sinner broke Medvedev to bring the match to parity. The 22-year-old Italian won the fourth set 6-4.

In the final set, with momentum on his side, he again broke the Russian in the sixth game to seize advantage. Sinner then consolidated on the fifth-set lead to finally serve for the championship and win the Australian Open title.

With the win, he becomes the first Italian player to win a men’s singles Grand Slam since Adriano Panatta. The Legendary player won the 1976 French Open and since then Italy has seen a Grand Slam drought in men’s singles. Matteo Berrettini came closer to ending the drought in 2021 when he finished runner-up to Novak Djokovic at the Wimbledon Championships.

Italian Jannik Sinner produced a monumental comeback in the Australian Open final on Sunday (Jan 28) after he beat Russian Daniil Medvedev at the Rod Laver Arena.

Italian Jannik Sinner produced a monumental comeback in the Australian Open final on Sunday (Jan 28) after he beat Russian Daniil Medvedev at the Rod Laver Arena. Sinner, playing against the former US Open champion came back from two sets down to win 3-6, 3-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-3 and clinch his maiden Grand Slam title. The defeat for Medvedev was his third at the Australian Open having also lost in the 2021 and 2022 final to Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal respectively. The win against Medvedev also means that only for the second time in 19 years there has been a winner other than Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer. SIN-PLY THE BEST 🏆#AO2024 pic.twitter.com/R1MFxck59L — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 28, 2024 × Sinner sweats to win Australian Open In a contest that lasted over three hours, the 22-year-old was at the receiving end of a great show from Medvedev in the opening two sets and lost 3-6, 3-6 before mounting the comeback. Having been broken three times during the opening two sets, Sinner was under pressure to hold his serve. However, he showed nerves of steel to mount a comeback. × In the third set with both players reluctant to lose their serve, it was the decisive 10th game where Sinner capitalised. With Medvedev serving stay in the set, Sinner broke his serve to pocket the whole thing 6-4. Sinner, by winning the set on Medvedev's serve was handed a realistic advantage of serving first in the fourth set. ALSO READ | We're not pathetic: WI skipper Kraigg Brathwaite hits back at former Australia player after famous Gabba win In a Deja Vu moment in the fourth set, it was again the 10th game where Sinner broke Medvedev to bring the match to parity. The 22-year-old Italian won the fourth set 6-4. In the final set, with momentum on his side, he again broke the Russian in the sixth game to seize advantage. Sinner then consolidated on the fifth-set lead to finally serve for the championship and win the Australian Open title. With the win, he becomes the first Italian player to win a men’s singles Grand Slam since Adriano Panatta. The Legendary player won the 1976 French Open and since then Italy has seen a Grand Slam drought in men’s singles. Matteo Berrettini came closer to ending the drought in 2021 when he finished runner-up to Novak Djokovic at the Wimbledon Championships.

Australian Open: Jannik Sinner makes thrilling comeback, stuns Medvedev to win maiden Grand Slam title

Defending champion Novak Djokovic crashed out of Australian Open 2024 after a loss to Italy's Jannik Sinner in the semi-final of men's singles on Friday (Jan 26) in Melbourne. Sinner beat Djokovic 6-1, 6-2, 6-7 (6-8), 6-3 to enter the final. With the loss, Djokovic's 23-win streak at the Melbourne Park also came to an end. For fourth seed Sinner, this is the first grand slam final he'll be playing in.&nbsp;

The difference was visible between the players as Sinner came out all guns blazing having not lost a single set in the tournament so far. The Italian won two sets in no time before the Serb could even get settled. The third set was also fought tooth and nail and it went into the tie break.&nbsp;

Sinner, although, lost the set, his first in the Australian Open, remained unfazed to brush it aside quickly to win the next one and with that the match as well.

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Djokovic, who was chasing his 11th Australia Open title and a historic 25th grand slam title, was never in contention as visible in scoring. The Serb could not win a single break point against his opponent's five. Djokovic also managed just 67 per cent win on the first serve and 52 on the second while Sinner won 83 per cent on the first serve and 64 per cent on the second.&nbsp;

Sinner also won a whopping 128 points in 24 games against the 10-time Australian Open winner's 98 in 13. The Italian was brutal on the service, winning 82 points while Djokovic managed just 70.

"It was a very, tough match," said Sinner after the match. "I started off really well. He missed in the first two sets. I felt like he was not feeling that great on court so I just tried to keep pushing."

Sinner will play the winner of Alexander Zverev and Daniil Medvedev clash in the men's singles final on January 28.

Defending champion Novak Djokovic crashed out of Australian Open 2024 after a loss to Italy's Jannik Sinner in the semi-final of men's singles on Friday (Jan 26) in Melbourne.

Defending champion Novak Djokovic crashed out of Australian Open 2024 after a loss to Italy's Jannik Sinner in the semi-final of men's singles on Friday (Jan 26) in Melbourne. Sinner beat Djokovic 6-1, 6-2, 6-7 (6-8), 6-3 to enter the final. With the loss, Djokovic's 23-win streak at the Melbourne Park also came to an end. For fourth seed Sinner, this is the first grand slam final he'll be playing in. The difference was visible between the players as Sinner came out all guns blazing having not lost a single set in the tournament so far. The Italian won two sets in no time before the Serb could even get settled. The third set was also fought tooth and nail and it went into the tie break. Sinner, although, lost the set, his first in the Australian Open, remained unfazed to brush it aside quickly to win the next one and with that the match as well. Also Read: 'Amazed' Roger Federer praises India's ace athlete Neeraj Chopra Djokovic, who was chasing his 11th Australia Open title and a historic 25th grand slam title, was never in contention as visible in scoring. The Serb could not win a single break point against his opponent's five. Djokovic also managed just 67 per cent win on the first serve and 52 on the second while Sinner won 83 per cent on the first serve and 64 per cent on the second. Sinner also won a whopping 128 points in 24 games against the 10-time Australian Open winner's 98 in 13. The Italian was brutal on the service, winning 82 points while Djokovic managed just 70. "It was a very, tough match," said Sinner after the match. "I started off really well. He missed in the first two sets. I felt like he was not feeling that great on court so I just tried to keep pushing." Sinner will play the winner of Alexander Zverev and Daniil Medvedev clash in the men's singles final on January 28.

Australian Open: Defending champion Novak Djokovic out after loss to Jannik Sinner in semi-final

Fourth seed Jannik Sinner underlined his title credentials by racing into the second week of the Australian Open without dropping a set after a 6-0 6-1 6-3 demolition of Sebastian Baez in the third round on Friday. The clean-hitting Italian banged down six aces and 34 winners to see off the Argentine 26th seed in less than two hours in cool and blustery conditions on Margaret Court Arena, sealing the deal with a seventh break of serve.

The 22-year-old was the hottest player on tour at the end of last season and led Italy to a first Davis Cup triumph in late November to conclude the season. His decision to extend his holiday and skip the warm-up tournaments ahead of the year's first Grand Slam raised some eyebrows, but Sinner felt it had been vindicated by his form in the first three rounds in Melbourne.

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"In general, I feel really great here," Sinner said. "I'm really happy with how I'm feeling right now. "Obviously matches are a little bit different (from training) and let's see how I react in the next rounds, but at the moment I'm going well."

Sinner's best run at the Australian Open was a place in the quarter-finals in 2022, and the odds will favour him getting back to the last eight with Karen Khachanov his opponent in the fourth round. The Italian has won the last two of his three meetings with the Russian 15th seed with the only loss coming at the 2020 U.S. Open when he was still a teenager.

Fourth seed Jannik Sinner underlined his title credentials by racing into the second week of the Australian Open without dropping a set after a 6-0 6-1 6-3 demolition of Sebastian Baez in the third round on Friday.

Fourth seed Jannik Sinner underlined his title credentials by racing into the second week of the Australian Open without dropping a set after a 6-0 6-1 6-3 demolition of Sebastian Baez in the third round on Friday. The clean-hitting Italian banged down six aces and 34 winners to see off the Argentine 26th seed in less than two hours in cool and blustery conditions on Margaret Court Arena, sealing the deal with a seventh break of serve. The 22-year-old was the hottest player on tour at the end of last season and led Italy to a first Davis Cup triumph in late November to conclude the season. His decision to extend his holiday and skip the warm-up tournaments ahead of the year's first Grand Slam raised some eyebrows, but Sinner felt it had been vindicated by his form in the first three rounds in Melbourne. Also read: Australian Open 2024: Sabalenka refuses to shake hands with Ukraine's Tsurenko after third-round win × "In general, I feel really great here," Sinner said. "I'm really happy with how I'm feeling right now. "Obviously matches are a little bit different (from training) and let's see how I react in the next rounds, but at the moment I'm going well." Sinner's best run at the Australian Open was a place in the quarter-finals in 2022, and the odds will favour him getting back to the last eight with Karen Khachanov his opponent in the fourth round. The Italian has won the last two of his three meetings with the Russian 15th seed with the only loss coming at the 2020 U.S. Open when he was still a teenager.

Australian Open 2024: Jannik Sinner storms past Sebastian Baez into fourth round

A ruthless Novak Djokovic eased past home favourite Jannik Sinner to win the ATP Finals title for a record seventh time on Sunday (November 19), adding yet another milestone to his incredible career. The 36-year-old Serb lost to Sinner earlier in the week in the group stage, but exacted revenge with a sublime display to claim a 6-3 6-3 victory.

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🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆<a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DjokerNole</a> masters Sinner 6-3, 6-3 to capture a record SEVENTH <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NittoATPFinals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NittoATPFinals</a> title! <a href="https://t.co/329PwngtWt">pic.twitter.com/329PwngtWt</a>
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A sell-out crowd in Turin's Pala Alpitour had hoped to cheer the 22-year-old Sinner to the biggest title of his career but Djokovic was simply in a different league. The world number one dropped only two points on serve in the opening set and once he had broken Sinner's serve in the fourth game it was largely one-way traffic.

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At one point Djokovic won 14 points in a row against a player ranked fourth in the world before Sinner briefly slowed the march of the 24-time Grand Slam champion.

Sinner avoided going a double break of serve down as Djokovic surprisingly failed to make a passing shot and Sinner then had points to break back in the sixth game but could not convert either of them.

The crowd tried their best to energise their man but Djokovic moved on towards victory and a Sinner double fault ended the contest, as Serbian moved past Roger Federer to stand alone as the most successful player in the tournament's history. His win concludes a year in which he won three of the four Grand Slam titles and seized back the world number one spot from Carlos Alcaraz.

A ruthless Novak Djokovic eased past home favourite Jannik Sinner to win the ATP Finals title for a record seventh time on Sunday (November 19), adding yet another milestone to his incredible career.

A ruthless Novak Djokovic eased past home favourite Jannik Sinner to win the ATP Finals title for a record seventh time on Sunday (November 19), adding yet another milestone to his incredible career. The 36-year-old Serb lost to Sinner earlier in the week in the group stage, but exacted revenge with a sublime display to claim a 6-3 6-3 victory. 🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆@DjokerNole masters Sinner 6-3, 6-3 to capture a record SEVENTH #NittoATPFinals title! pic.twitter.com/329PwngtWt — ATP Tour (@atptour) November 19, 2023 × A sell-out crowd in Turin's Pala Alpitour had hoped to cheer the 22-year-old Sinner to the biggest title of his career but Djokovic was simply in a different league. The world number one dropped only two points on serve in the opening set and once he had broken Sinner's serve in the fourth game it was largely one-way traffic. Also Read: WATCH | LeBron 360 layup in Lakers vs Rockets sends internet in frenzy At one point Djokovic won 14 points in a row against a player ranked fourth in the world before Sinner briefly slowed the march of the 24-time Grand Slam champion. Sinner avoided going a double break of serve down as Djokovic surprisingly failed to make a passing shot and Sinner then had points to break back in the sixth game but could not convert either of them. The crowd tried their best to energise their man but Djokovic moved on towards victory and a Sinner double fault ended the contest, as Serbian moved past Roger Federer to stand alone as the most successful player in the tournament's history. His win concludes a year in which he won three of the four Grand Slam titles and seized back the world number one spot from Carlos Alcaraz.

Tennis: Novak Djokovic targets another spectacular year in 2024, aims to continue fending off next generation

Stefanos Tsitsipas retired after just three games of his Green Group clash against Holger Rune at the ATP Finals on Tuesday (Nov 14), handing the Danish debutant his first victory in the event. Greek world number six Tsitsipas looked stiff and uncomfortable as he trailed 2-1 and after consulting with a doctor at the changeover he decided that he could not continue.

Tsitsipas, who lost in straight sets to Jannik Sinner in his opening match on Sunday, shuffled off the court to a few jeers from the large crowd inside the Pala Alpitour and later confirmed it was a problem with his back. As a consolation for the ticket holders, alternates Taylor Fritz and Hubert Hurkacz were due on court to play an exhibition match, although it will not count for the tournament.

"I'm really gutted that I wasn't able to finish the match. It's a shame also not to give that spot to someone else to at least try and do something with it," Tsitsipas said. "My doctors and the countless visits that I had in the past few days suggested that I play, gave me the green light to go and try it for myself. Unfortunately, I felt terrible on the court. I did what I could do to be ready and fit for this match, but it didn't work out for me."

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Had Tsitsipas withdrawn before the match, first reserve Hurkacz would have played Rune in a live match with the Pole still having a chance to progress in the tournament. "I hate retiring from matches," added Tsitsipas, who claimed the biggest title of his career at the event in 2019.

"I'm not the kind of person that likes leaving mid-match. It kills me not to be able to finish this tournament. But this is tennis. This is not darts. For me, it's important to be fit and feel good with my back. The pain was very big."

Tsitsipas also pulled out injured in 2021.

Stefanos Tsitsipas retired after just three games of his Green Group clash against Holger Rune at the ATP Finals on Tuesday (Nov 14), handing the Danish debutant his first victory in the event.

Stefanos Tsitsipas retired after just three games of his Green Group clash against Holger Rune at the ATP Finals on Tuesday (Nov 14), handing the Danish debutant his first victory in the event. Greek world number six Tsitsipas looked stiff and uncomfortable as he trailed 2-1 and after consulting with a doctor at the changeover he decided that he could not continue. Tsitsipas, who lost in straight sets to Jannik Sinner in his opening match on Sunday, shuffled off the court to a few jeers from the large crowd inside the Pala Alpitour and later confirmed it was a problem with his back. As a consolation for the ticket holders, alternates Taylor Fritz and Hubert Hurkacz were due on court to play an exhibition match, although it will not count for the tournament. "I'm really gutted that I wasn't able to finish the match. It's a shame also not to give that spot to someone else to at least try and do something with it," Tsitsipas said. "My doctors and the countless visits that I had in the past few days suggested that I play, gave me the green light to go and try it for myself. Unfortunately, I felt terrible on the court. I did what I could do to be ready and fit for this match, but it didn't work out for me." Also Read: Lewis Hamilton admits to moments of self-doubt after second successive winless Formula One season Had Tsitsipas withdrawn before the match, first reserve Hurkacz would have played Rune in a live match with the Pole still having a chance to progress in the tournament. "I hate retiring from matches," added Tsitsipas, who claimed the biggest title of his career at the event in 2019. "I'm not the kind of person that likes leaving mid-match. It kills me not to be able to finish this tournament. But this is tennis. This is not darts. For me, it's important to be fit and feel good with my back. The pain was very big." Tsitsipas also pulled out injured in 2021.

ATP Finals: Stefanos Tsitsipas retires after three games against Holger Rune

Italy won the&nbsp;Davis&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;for the first time since 1976 as Jannik Sinner crushed Alex de Minaur 6-3, 6-0 to seal a 2-0 win over Australia on Sunday in Malaga. The world number four clinched victory in the second singles rubber after Matteo Arnaldi dug deep to beat Alexei Popyrin 7-5, 2-6, 6-4 in the opening clash.

Sinner, who remarkably beat top-ranked superstar Novak Djokovic twice in one day on Saturday as Italy eliminated Serbia, secured his country's second title against Lleyton Hewitt's 28-time winners in style. "I felt quite good today ... this is a really important win for me, the whole team and Italy together," said Sinner.

"This is something different, really special, because you don't play for yourself, you play for the whole team." The Italian demoralised the scampering De Minaur with a relentless performance, overpowering him with vicious ground-strokes to the delight of the majority of the packed Martin Carpena arena.

Sinner had won each of the five prior meetings between the pair and the world number 12 came no closer this time, brutally dismantled in 81 minutes. Australia's wait for a&nbsp;Davis Cup trophy&nbsp;goes on, with their last coming in 2003, but Italy, who last reached a final in 1998, celebrated wildly when De Minaur went wide to end the tie.

On Saturday Italy were on the verge of elimination, but Sinner saved three match points against Djokovic to force a deciding doubles clash. "Yesterday we were one point away from being out and now we can celebrate winning, I think we can all be very, very happy," said Sinner, after ending Italy's 47-year wait, the third-longest gap between titles in&nbsp;Davis&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;history.

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Sinner, who lost the ATP Finals showdown with Djokovic a week ago in Turin, deserves special credit for his stunning displays in Malaga -- he won all five rubbers he played in. Laser-focused from the start, he broke early in the first set for a 2-1 lead when De Minaur sent a lob long and then consolidated with a powerful forehand.&nbsp;

The 22-year-old brought up three set points and clinched the first set with the second of them when De Minaur volleyed beyond the baseline. In the second set Sinner produced 19 winners to just five unforced errors to sweep to victory. "I will find ways to get better, to be able to hurt these types of players," said De Minaur, who also suffered disappointment with Australia in last year's final. "Today I just didn't have enough."

<h2>&nbsp;Clinging on&nbsp;</h2>

Arnaldi had to cling on to beat Popyrin in the first match. "I think I won one of the most important matches in my life, I don't know what to say right now," said an emotional Arnaldi. "I'm sorry for Alexei, because he deserved to win, for sure -- he was playing better, but sometimes&nbsp;Davis&nbsp;is like this." Arnaldi, ranked 44th, exchanged breaks with Popyrin and converted his fourth set point to take a scrappy first stanza.

The Australian hit back strongly in the second, racing into a double break and holding for 4-0. Arnaldi finally got on the board in the fifth game but Popyrin -- who produced six aces in the second set to the Italian's zero -- served it out to force a decisive third.

The erratic Arnaldi saved break points in his first, second and fourth service games without putting pressure on Popyrin's serve until earning a break point which the 24-year-old saved, holding for 4-4. Popyrin was on top but could not make it count to get the breakthrough, with Arnaldi saving yet another break point on his way to a 5-4 lead.

Despite being outplayed for the best part of the third set Arnaldi converted his first set point to put Italy ahead in the tie with a powerful forehand, with Sinner completing the job without a fuss. "(Sinner) backed up what he did yesterday against Novak and played extremely good tennis," said Hewitt, who played for Australia last time they won the&nbsp;cup&nbsp;20 years ago. "I think the conditions and surface suit him perfectly, as well, which makes life pretty tough." Victory completed a superb year for Italian tennis, after their women's team finished as runners-up in the Billie Jean King&nbsp;Cup.

Italy won the Davis Cup for the first time since 1976 as Jannik Sinner crushed Alex de Minaur 6-3, 6-0 to seal a 2-0 win over Australia on Sunday in Malaga. The world number four clinched victory in the second singles rubber after Matteo Arnaldi dug deep to beat Alexei Popyrin 7-5, 2-6, 6-4 in the opening clash.

Italy won the Davis Cup for the first time since 1976 as Jannik Sinner crushed Alex de Minaur 6-3, 6-0 to seal a 2-0 win over Australia on Sunday in Malaga. The world number four clinched victory in the second singles rubber after Matteo Arnaldi dug deep to beat Alexei Popyrin 7-5, 2-6, 6-4 in the opening clash. Sinner, who remarkably beat top-ranked superstar Novak Djokovic twice in one day on Saturday as Italy eliminated Serbia, secured his country's second title against Lleyton Hewitt's 28-time winners in style. "I felt quite good today ... this is a really important win for me, the whole team and Italy together," said Sinner. "This is something different, really special, because you don't play for yourself, you play for the whole team." The Italian demoralised the scampering De Minaur with a relentless performance, overpowering him with vicious ground-strokes to the delight of the majority of the packed Martin Carpena arena. Sinner had won each of the five prior meetings between the pair and the world number 12 came no closer this time, brutally dismantled in 81 minutes. Australia's wait for a Davis Cup trophy goes on, with their last coming in 2003, but Italy, who last reached a final in 1998, celebrated wildly when De Minaur went wide to end the tie. On Saturday Italy were on the verge of elimination, but Sinner saved three match points against Djokovic to force a deciding doubles clash. "Yesterday we were one point away from being out and now we can celebrate winning, I think we can all be very, very happy," said Sinner, after ending Italy's 47-year wait, the third-longest gap between titles in Davis Cup history. Also Read: Franco Escobar helps Houston Dynamo beat Kansas City for spot in MLS Western Conference final Sinner, who lost the ATP Finals showdown with Djokovic a week ago in Turin, deserves special credit for his stunning displays in Malaga -- he won all five rubbers he played in. Laser-focused from the start, he broke early in the first set for a 2-1 lead when De Minaur sent a lob long and then consolidated with a powerful forehand. The 22-year-old brought up three set points and clinched the first set with the second of them when De Minaur volleyed beyond the baseline. In the second set Sinner produced 19 winners to just five unforced errors to sweep to victory. "I will find ways to get better, to be able to hurt these types of players," said De Minaur, who also suffered disappointment with Australia in last year's final. "Today I just didn't have enough." Clinging on Arnaldi had to cling on to beat Popyrin in the first match. "I think I won one of the most important matches in my life, I don't know what to say right now," said an emotional Arnaldi. "I'm sorry for Alexei, because he deserved to win, for sure -- he was playing better, but sometimes Davis is like this." Arnaldi, ranked 44th, exchanged breaks with Popyrin and converted his fourth set point to take a scrappy first stanza. The Australian hit back strongly in the second, racing into a double break and holding for 4-0. Arnaldi finally got on the board in the fifth game but Popyrin -- who produced six aces in the second set to the Italian's zero -- served it out to force a decisive third. The erratic Arnaldi saved break points in his first, second and fourth service games without putting pressure on Popyrin's serve until earning a break point which the 24-year-old saved, holding for 4-4. Popyrin was on top but could not make it count to get the breakthrough, with Arnaldi saving yet another break point on his way to a 5-4 lead. Despite being outplayed for the best part of the third set Arnaldi converted his first set point to put Italy ahead in the tie with a powerful forehand, with Sinner completing the job without a fuss. "(Sinner) backed up what he did yesterday against Novak and played extremely good tennis," said Hewitt, who played for Australia last time they won the cup 20 years ago. "I think the conditions and surface suit him perfectly, as well, which makes life pretty tough." Victory completed a superb year for Italian tennis, after their women's team finished as runners-up in the Billie Jean King Cup.

Tennis: Italy win Davis Cup for first time in 47 years, stun Australia in Malaga

Australia's&nbsp;Davis&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;players have vowed to return to Malaga and claim the title next year after losing a second successive final in the international&nbsp;men's team tournament on Sunday. The Australians had the misfortune to come up against a red-hot Jannik Sinner on Sunday and it was his 6-3 6-0 singles victory over Alex De Minaur that secured a first title for Italy in 47 years and rendered the doubles rubber superfluous.

De Minaur also featured in last year's loss to Canada in the final at the same arena and the world number 12 took solace from how well Australia had performed since the finals format was changed to the best of three rubbers. "There hasn't been another nation that's gone back-to-back in the last two years, so we are showing a pretty good effort collectively," he told reporters.

"We are very, very close and it stinks like hell but, like I said last year in this same position, we'll be back. We'll get this. I mean, we've got a very, very strong future ahead of us." Australia won the last of their 28 titles in 2003 and have reached the last two finals without the talents of Nick Kyrgios, who is currently sidelined by injury and last played&nbsp;Davis&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;in 2019.

Captain Lleyton Hewitt has forged a strong team bond between the likes of De Minaur, world number 40 Alexei Popyrin and the 55th ranked Jordan Thompson as well as the doubles pairing of Matthew Ebden and Max Purcell.

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A crestfallen De Minaur conceded he had been outclassed by world number four Sinner in the second singles match after Popyrin had been beaten by Matteo Arnaldi in the opener. "Jannik is riding this amazing wave of confidence ... it's seriously impressive the level he's showing," he added.

"I will find ways to get better, to be able to hurt these types of players. Today I just didn't have enough. I'm disappointed I wasn't able to give the boys a chance to play the doubles, that's probably the biggest disappointment."

Australia's Davis Cup players have vowed to return to Malaga and claim the title next year after losing a second successive final in the international men's team tournament on Sunday.

Australia's Davis Cup players have vowed to return to Malaga and claim the title next year after losing a second successive final in the international men's team tournament on Sunday. The Australians had the misfortune to come up against a red-hot Jannik Sinner on Sunday and it was his 6-3 6-0 singles victory over Alex De Minaur that secured a first title for Italy in 47 years and rendered the doubles rubber superfluous. De Minaur also featured in last year's loss to Canada in the final at the same arena and the world number 12 took solace from how well Australia had performed since the finals format was changed to the best of three rubbers. "There hasn't been another nation that's gone back-to-back in the last two years, so we are showing a pretty good effort collectively," he told reporters. "We are very, very close and it stinks like hell but, like I said last year in this same position, we'll be back. We'll get this. I mean, we've got a very, very strong future ahead of us." Australia won the last of their 28 titles in 2003 and have reached the last two finals without the talents of Nick Kyrgios, who is currently sidelined by injury and last played Davis Cup in 2019. Captain Lleyton Hewitt has forged a strong team bond between the likes of De Minaur, world number 40 Alexei Popyrin and the 55th ranked Jordan Thompson as well as the doubles pairing of Matthew Ebden and Max Purcell. Also Read: Tributes pour in from all across world for veteran manager Terry Venables A crestfallen De Minaur conceded he had been outclassed by world number four Sinner in the second singles match after Popyrin had been beaten by Matteo Arnaldi in the opener. "Jannik is riding this amazing wave of confidence ... it's seriously impressive the level he's showing," he added. "I will find ways to get better, to be able to hurt these types of players. Today I just didn't have enough. I'm disappointed I wasn't able to give the boys a chance to play the doubles, that's probably the biggest disappointment."

Tennis: 'We'll be back', Australia's Davis Cup players vow to win title next year

Italy's Jannik Sinner saved matchpoints to upset Novak Djokovic 6-2 2-6 7-5 and help his country to draw level with Serbia in their Davis Cup semi-final on Saturday after Miomir Kecmanovic had put the 2010 champions ahead by beating Lorenzo Musetti 6-7(7) 6-2 6-1.

Italy are aiming to return to the final having last reached that stage a quarter of a century ago and the 1976 champions can succeed if they prevail in the deciding doubles contest at a packed Martin Carpena Arena.

Sinner was facing Djokovic for the third time in 11 days and the world number four, who beat the top-ranked Serbian early in the ATP Finals before losing to him in the title clash, made a quick start to ease through the opening set with two breaks of serve.

The 22-year-old, who had sparked Italy's comeback in their quarter-final against the Netherlands, took his foot off the gas in the next set to allow Djokovic back in but kept chipping away in the hope of sealing a second win over him in six meetings.

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He saved three match points while down 4-5 in the decider and then pulled off one of the most remarkable wins of his career to spark wild celebrations in the stands.

Defeat was a bitter blow for Djokovic, the winner of three of the four Grand Slams in a spectacular year, but the 36-year-old will be back for the decider later on Saturday to help Serbia try to reach a third final.

Serbia, who outclassed Britain in the last eight, last won the premier men's team competition in 2010.

Kecmanovic had earlier rallied from a set down to power past Musetti and leave Serbia one win away from their third final in the elite men's team competition and first since 2013.

Musetti made a slow start against the high-flying Kecmanovic and narrowly avoided going down a double break, before the world number 27 found his range to level the first set at 5-5 and come from behind again in the tiebreak to clinch it.

But Kecmanovic's level barely dropped following the setback, as the world number 55 breezed through the second set and broke twice in the third for a 4-0 lead, which was enough for the 24-year-old to see off Musetti who was battling a thigh issue.

The winner of the tie will face Australia in Sunday's final after Lleyton Hewitt's side beat Finland.

Italy's Jannik Sinner saved matchpoints to upset Novak Djokovic 6-2 2-6 7-5 and help his country to draw level with Serbia in their Davis Cup semi-final on Saturday after Miomir Kecmanovic had put the 2010 champions ahead by beating Lorenzo Musetti 6-7(7) 6-2 6-1.

Italy's Jannik Sinner saved matchpoints to upset Novak Djokovic 6-2 2-6 7-5 and help his country to draw level with Serbia in their Davis Cup semi-final on Saturday after Miomir Kecmanovic had put the 2010 champions ahead by beating Lorenzo Musetti 6-7(7) 6-2 6-1. Italy are aiming to return to the final having last reached that stage a quarter of a century ago and the 1976 champions can succeed if they prevail in the deciding doubles contest at a packed Martin Carpena Arena. Sinner was facing Djokovic for the third time in 11 days and the world number four, who beat the top-ranked Serbian early in the ATP Finals before losing to him in the title clash, made a quick start to ease through the opening set with two breaks of serve. The 22-year-old, who had sparked Italy's comeback in their quarter-final against the Netherlands, took his foot off the gas in the next set to allow Djokovic back in but kept chipping away in the hope of sealing a second win over him in six meetings. ALSO READ: Premier League: Newcastle United crush Chelsea at home as Reece James sees red He saved three match points while down 4-5 in the decider and then pulled off one of the most remarkable wins of his career to spark wild celebrations in the stands. Defeat was a bitter blow for Djokovic, the winner of three of the four Grand Slams in a spectacular year, but the 36-year-old will be back for the decider later on Saturday to help Serbia try to reach a third final. Serbia, who outclassed Britain in the last eight, last won the premier men's team competition in 2010. Kecmanovic had earlier rallied from a set down to power past Musetti and leave Serbia one win away from their third final in the elite men's team competition and first since 2013. Musetti made a slow start against the high-flying Kecmanovic and narrowly avoided going down a double break, before the world number 27 found his range to level the first set at 5-5 and come from behind again in the tiebreak to clinch it. But Kecmanovic's level barely dropped following the setback, as the world number 55 breezed through the second set and broke twice in the third for a 4-0 lead, which was enough for the 24-year-old to see off Musetti who was battling a thigh issue. The winner of the tie will face Australia in Sunday's final after Lleyton Hewitt's side beat Finland.

Tennis - Jannik Sinner stuns Novak Djokovic to keep Italy alive in Davis Cup semi-final

World number one Novak Djokovic steered Serbia into the Davis Cup semi-finals as he beat Cameron Norrie 6-4, 6-4 to secure a 2-0 triumph over Great Britain in Malaga on Thursday.

The 36-year-old rebuked British fans at the end of the match as they tried to down out his victory speech.

After Miomir Kecmanovic edged Jack Draper 7-6 (7/2), 7-6 (8/6) in the opening clash 24-time Grand Slam winner Djokovic outclassed a stubborn Norrie to book a date with Jannik Sinner's Italy on Saturday, after they beat the Netherlands 2-1.

Djokovic, who beat Sinner to win the ATP Finals on Sunday in Turin before flying to the Costa del Sol, celebrated his landmark 400th week at number one with a straight sets win over Norrie, the captains agreeing not to play the redundant doubles.

British fans outnumbered Serbs at the sold-out Martin Carpena arena but the relentless Djokovic silenced them with his 21st consecutive Davis Cup singles win.

"Keep going, keep going," said Djokovic, addressing British fans trying to drown him out with drums as he spoke after his win.

"Learn how to respect people, learn how to respect players, learn how to behave yourselves."

Djokovic said earlier this week winning the competition is one of his "greatest goals" in a year where he has lifted seven titles, including three Grand Slams.

The veteran star was part of Serbia's only Davis Cup triumph in 2010 and his country eliminated 10-time champions Britain, who faced an uphill struggle after Kecmanovic defeated Draper in two tie-breaks.

Britain, without the injured Andy Murray and Dan Evans, were hoping Draper could give them a cushion.

Serbia captain Viktor Troicki selected Kecmanovic over the higher ranked Laslo Djere and the world number 55 raised his game in return.

Draper staved off two set points to hold for 5-5 but unravelled in the first tie-break, double faulting twice and miscalculating a drop shot to hand the Serbian the set on a plate.

After composing himself the second set was even tighter than the first, with neither player able to find a break again.

The near-flawless Kecmanovic triumphed when Draper lashed a forehand wide and then pushed a return into the net.

"It was definitely very close, and just the atmosphere made it, I think, even more tense than it probably would be if it was like an ATP match or something," said the Serb.

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<h2>Sealed with a kiss</h2>

Djokovic set out with his mission clearly defined and earned two break points at 2-2 and took the second of them to nose ahead with a well-judged touch over the net which the scrambling Norrie just failed to reach.

The Briton was pulled to-and-fro by Djokovic but scrapped to survive four break points for an extremely tough hold from love 40 down, to trail 4-3. One superb overhead earned Norrie applause from Djokovic.

The 36-year-old offered little else after that to his opponent though and closed out the first set serving to love with a volley, before cupping his ear and blowing sarcastic kisses to a couple of British fans who had upset him.

Djokovic broke to love in the first game of the second set as he began to hit his stride and show off his lethal forearm.

British No 1 Norrie, 18th in the world, showed resilience but never came close to finding a way back into the match.

Djokovic served it out, finishing with an ace.

On Friday, last year's runners-up Australia face surprise package Finland in the first semi-final.

World number one Novak Djokovic steered Serbia into the Davis Cup semi-finals as he beat Cameron Norrie 6-4, 6-4 to secure a 2-0 triumph over Great Britain in Malaga on Thursday.

World number one Novak Djokovic steered Serbia into the Davis Cup semi-finals as he beat Cameron Norrie 6-4, 6-4 to secure a 2-0 triumph over Great Britain in Malaga on Thursday. The 36-year-old rebuked British fans at the end of the match as they tried to down out his victory speech. After Miomir Kecmanovic edged Jack Draper 7-6 (7/2), 7-6 (8/6) in the opening clash 24-time Grand Slam winner Djokovic outclassed a stubborn Norrie to book a date with Jannik Sinner's Italy on Saturday, after they beat the Netherlands 2-1. Djokovic, who beat Sinner to win the ATP Finals on Sunday in Turin before flying to the Costa del Sol, celebrated his landmark 400th week at number one with a straight sets win over Norrie, the captains agreeing not to play the redundant doubles. British fans outnumbered Serbs at the sold-out Martin Carpena arena but the relentless Djokovic silenced them with his 21st consecutive Davis Cup singles win. "Keep going, keep going," said Djokovic, addressing British fans trying to drown him out with drums as he spoke after his win. "Learn how to respect people, learn how to respect players, learn how to behave yourselves." Djokovic said earlier this week winning the competition is one of his "greatest goals" in a year where he has lifted seven titles, including three Grand Slams. The veteran star was part of Serbia's only Davis Cup triumph in 2010 and his country eliminated 10-time champions Britain, who faced an uphill struggle after Kecmanovic defeated Draper in two tie-breaks. Britain, without the injured Andy Murray and Dan Evans, were hoping Draper could give them a cushion. Serbia captain Viktor Troicki selected Kecmanovic over the higher ranked Laslo Djere and the world number 55 raised his game in return. Draper staved off two set points to hold for 5-5 but unravelled in the first tie-break, double faulting twice and miscalculating a drop shot to hand the Serbian the set on a plate. After composing himself the second set was even tighter than the first, with neither player able to find a break again. The near-flawless Kecmanovic triumphed when Draper lashed a forehand wide and then pushed a return into the net. "It was definitely very close, and just the atmosphere made it, I think, even more tense than it probably would be if it was like an ATP match or something," said the Serb. ALSO READ | RECORD-BREAKING 300 million fans watched India vs Australia ODI World Cup final on TV, says Jay Shah Sealed with a kiss Djokovic set out with his mission clearly defined and earned two break points at 2-2 and took the second of them to nose ahead with a well-judged touch over the net which the scrambling Norrie just failed to reach. The Briton was pulled to-and-fro by Djokovic but scrapped to survive four break points for an extremely tough hold from love 40 down, to trail 4-3. One superb overhead earned Norrie applause from Djokovic. The 36-year-old offered little else after that to his opponent though and closed out the first set serving to love with a volley, before cupping his ear and blowing sarcastic kisses to a couple of British fans who had upset him. Djokovic broke to love in the first game of the second set as he began to hit his stride and show off his lethal forearm. British No 1 Norrie, 18th in the world, showed resilience but never came close to finding a way back into the match. Djokovic served it out, finishing with an ace. On Friday, last year's runners-up Australia face surprise package Finland in the first semi-final.

Tennis: Novak Djokovic silences Britain, helps Serbia into Davis Cup semis; to face Jannik Sinner in last four

Jannik Sinner came up third time lucky in a Masters 1000 final on Sunday as he won the Toronto title 6-4, 6-1 over Alex de Minaur.

The seventh seed became only the second Italian to lift a trophy in the elite series, following Fabio Fognini, champion at Monte Carlo four years&nbsp;ago.

Sinner lost a pair of Masters finals in Miami in 2021 and last April but could not contain his&nbsp;enthusiasm after storming past his&nbsp;Australian opponent in 90 minutes.

The player who turns 22 on Wednesday improved to 12-0 versus Australians dating to the 2021 US Open.

"I'm getting used to the difficult situations," the winner said. "Twice in the first set I was up a break up and he broke back.

"But I stayed calm mentally, I was prepared for a long battle.

"I'm happy with how I reacted. In the second set I played better and tried to be more aggressive.

"It was tough today with the wind,&nbsp;I'm happy with&nbsp;my level today," the Wimbledon semi-finalist said. "This makes you feel like you are doing the right thing."

Sinner will rise to sixth in the world as a result of his Canadian success.&nbsp;

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The Italian won his eighth career trophy and improved&nbsp;to a perfect 5-0 over de Minaur.&nbsp;

Sinner tried and failed twice in the opening set to hold onto breaks, only to drop serve in the following game to the Aussie.

But the Italian found form just in time, firing an ace to lead 5-4 and finished off the set in 54 minutes on his first opportunity as on his opponent's error.

The second set was one-way traffic&nbsp;for Sinner, who closed out victory on his&nbsp;second match&nbsp;point.

Sinner is the youngest Toronto winner since Alexander Zverev, who was 20 in 2017; the Italian now stands 18-4 at the Masters level this season.

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Jannik Sinner came up third time lucky in a Masters 1000 final on Sunday as he won the Toronto title 6-4, 6-1 over Alex de Minaur. The seventh seed became only the second Italian to lift a trophy in the elite series, following Fabio Fognini, champion at Monte Carlo four years ago.

Jannik Sinner came up third time lucky in a Masters 1000 final on Sunday as he won the Toronto title 6-4, 6-1 over Alex de Minaur. The seventh seed became only the second Italian to lift a trophy in the elite series, following Fabio Fognini, champion at Monte Carlo four years ago. Sinner lost a pair of Masters finals in Miami in 2021 and last April but could not contain his enthusiasm after storming past his Australian opponent in 90 minutes. The player who turns 22 on Wednesday improved to 12-0 versus Australians dating to the 2021 US Open. "I'm getting used to the difficult situations," the winner said. "Twice in the first set I was up a break up and he broke back. "But I stayed calm mentally, I was prepared for a long battle. "I'm happy with how I reacted. In the second set I played better and tried to be more aggressive. "It was tough today with the wind, I'm happy with my level today," the Wimbledon semi-finalist said. "This makes you feel like you are doing the right thing." Sinner will rise to sixth in the world as a result of his Canadian success. ALSO READ | India couldn't perform in ICC tournaments due to internal issues, claims former Pakistan captain The Italian won his eighth career trophy and improved to a perfect 5-0 over de Minaur. Sinner tried and failed twice in the opening set to hold onto breaks, only to drop serve in the following game to the Aussie. But the Italian found form just in time, firing an ace to lead 5-4 and finished off the set in 54 minutes on his first opportunity as on his opponent's error. The second set was one-way traffic for Sinner, who closed out victory on his second match point. Sinner is the youngest Toronto winner since Alexander Zverev, who was 20 in 2017; the Italian now stands 18-4 at the Masters level this season. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tennis: Jannik Sinner storms past Alex de Minaur for first Masters 1000 title

Italian seventh seed Jannik Sinner beat Tommy Paul 6-4 6-4 on Saturday to set up a Canadian Open final clash with Australia's Alex De Minaur, who was a 6-1 6-3 winner over Spain's Alejandro Davidovich Fokina. Sinner outlasted Paul in a slugfest that was a showcase of power from both sides and at one point saw the duo engage in a 46-shot rally that marked the longest of the week in Toronto.

"It was a fight obviously," said Sinner, who saved eight of 11 break points in the win. "He was playing great as I do and at the end, you know match point, when I got there I was praying please. But thank God I won in two (sets)."

Sinner and Paul twice exchanged breaks in the opening set but it was the Italian who held serve when it mattered most as he took a 5-4 lead before clinching the set with another break. Sinner led 2-1 in the second set when Paul called for the tour physio who worked on his right hip while he lay sprawled on his left side in discomfort.

Paul was unable to hold serve in the next game, handing over the break with a double fault, before a determined Sinner went on to consolidate for a commanding 4-1 lead. From there, the Italian continued to display great length and pace on his ground strokes and turned aside three break points, including one during a 46-shot rally, for a 5-2 lead that sent him on his way.

"I tried so hard to win that point," Sinner said. "Just tried to play one more ball in the court than him and that was I guess the solution."

De Minaur overcame blustery conditions to secure a breakthrough victory over Davidovich Fokina and reach the first Masters 1000 final of his career. De Minaur, who was fresh off an upset over second seed Daniil Medvedev, delivered a simple gameplan in rather tricky conditions, while Davidovich Fokina struggled to find any sort of rhythm throughout the 78-minute match.

"First thing I knew once I stepped out on court it wasn't going to be pretty, so I didn't expect perfect tennis from my side of the court today," said De Minaur, who wrote "so windy" on an on-court camera lens after the match.&nbsp; "I just told myself to stay positive, keep competing no matter what and you never know what's going to happen. "So I thought I had a great mindset today ... Didn't play the best of tennis, but I did what needed to be done today in these conditions."

De Minaur wasted no time setting the tone against Davidovich Fokina as he broke the Spaniard twice en route to a 5-1 lead before serving out the opening set on his first opportunity. The 24-year-old Australian maintained the pressure as he broke Davidovich Fokina four times to build a 5-2 lead in the second before sealing the match with his seventh break.

"I've had a hell of a week. It's been the breakthrough that I always knew I had inside of me so it's great to show it and play for a final," De Minaur said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-number-one-carlos-alcaraz-knocked-out-of-toronto-masters-daniil-medvedev-also-shown-door-624739">World number one Carlos Alcaraz knocked out of Toronto Masters; Daniil Medvedev also shown door</a>

<h2 data-label="Package" data-qa-component="item-headline" dir="auto" title="Tennis-Pegula tops Swiatek to reach Montreal final, rain postpones second semi">Jessica Pegula tops Iga Swiatek to reach Montreal final, rain postpones second semi-final</h2>

Jessica Pegula beat world number one Iga Swiatek 6-2 6-7(4) 6-4 on Saturday to reach the Canadian Open final in Montreal, where ongoing rain delayed the start of the other semi-final between Elena Rybakina and Liudmila Samsonova until Sunday.

Rybakina and Samsonova are now scheduled to begin their match at 1:30 p.m. ET (1730 GMT) on Sunday, leaving the winner with little downtime before the final, which will begin "after suitable rest" and not before 5:30 p.m. American world number three Pegula, playing in her third consecutive Canadian Open semi-final, broke Swiatek's serve 11 times and managed her way through the big moments of the match better than the four-times Grand Slam winner.

"She always makes it tough but of course it's incredibly rewarding to beat the number one player in the world and I am sure that will give me a lot of confidence going into tomorrow and the next couple weeks," Pegula said securing a spot in her first Canadian Open final.

Neither player was able to defend their serve until Pegula held to love for a 4-2 lead and the American followed that by going up a double break before producing a pair of aces to close out the first set on her next service game.

Swiatek looked to have settled into a groove as she opened the second set with her first service hold of the day followed by a pair of breaks for a 3-1 lead. Pegula, however, clawed back and opened up a 5-4 lead after breaking Swiatek for the eighth time but was unable to serve out the match as the Pole levelled the frame before going on to force the decider.

Swiatek won the first eight points of the third set to build a 2-0 lead but Pegula kept cool and twice came back from a break down en route to securing one of the biggest wins of her career. Rybakina reached the semis with a win over Daria Kasatkina in a match that lasted nearly three and a half hours and ended just before 3 a.m. on Saturday.

Samsonova booked her place in the final four with a win over Belinda Bencic during Friday's night session after beating Aryna Sabalenka in the day session. Samsonova has won both her previous meetings with Rybakina, including a first-round clash in Montreal two years ago.

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Italian seventh seed Jannik Sinner beat Tommy Paul 6-4 6-4 on Saturday to set up a Canadian Open final clash with Australia's Alex De Minaur, who was a 6-1 6-3 winner over Spain's Alejandro Davidovich Fokina.

Italian seventh seed Jannik Sinner beat Tommy Paul 6-4 6-4 on Saturday to set up a Canadian Open final clash with Australia's Alex De Minaur, who was a 6-1 6-3 winner over Spain's Alejandro Davidovich Fokina. Sinner outlasted Paul in a slugfest that was a showcase of power from both sides and at one point saw the duo engage in a 46-shot rally that marked the longest of the week in Toronto. "It was a fight obviously," said Sinner, who saved eight of 11 break points in the win. "He was playing great as I do and at the end, you know match point, when I got there I was praying please. But thank God I won in two (sets)." Sinner and Paul twice exchanged breaks in the opening set but it was the Italian who held serve when it mattered most as he took a 5-4 lead before clinching the set with another break. Sinner led 2-1 in the second set when Paul called for the tour physio who worked on his right hip while he lay sprawled on his left side in discomfort. Paul was unable to hold serve in the next game, handing over the break with a double fault, before a determined Sinner went on to consolidate for a commanding 4-1 lead. From there, the Italian continued to display great length and pace on his ground strokes and turned aside three break points, including one during a 46-shot rally, for a 5-2 lead that sent him on his way. "I tried so hard to win that point," Sinner said. "Just tried to play one more ball in the court than him and that was I guess the solution." De Minaur overcame blustery conditions to secure a breakthrough victory over Davidovich Fokina and reach the first Masters 1000 final of his career. De Minaur, who was fresh off an upset over second seed Daniil Medvedev, delivered a simple gameplan in rather tricky conditions, while Davidovich Fokina struggled to find any sort of rhythm throughout the 78-minute match. "First thing I knew once I stepped out on court it wasn't going to be pretty, so I didn't expect perfect tennis from my side of the court today," said De Minaur, who wrote "so windy" on an on-court camera lens after the match. "I just told myself to stay positive, keep competing no matter what and you never know what's going to happen. "So I thought I had a great mindset today ... Didn't play the best of tennis, but I did what needed to be done today in these conditions." De Minaur wasted no time setting the tone against Davidovich Fokina as he broke the Spaniard twice en route to a 5-1 lead before serving out the opening set on his first opportunity. The 24-year-old Australian maintained the pressure as he broke Davidovich Fokina four times to build a 5-2 lead in the second before sealing the match with his seventh break. "I've had a hell of a week. It's been the breakthrough that I always knew I had inside of me so it's great to show it and play for a final," De Minaur said. Also read: World number one Carlos Alcaraz knocked out of Toronto Masters; Daniil Medvedev also shown door Jessica Pegula tops Iga Swiatek to reach Montreal final, rain postpones second semi-final Jessica Pegula beat world number one Iga Swiatek 6-2 6-7(4) 6-4 on Saturday to reach the Canadian Open final in Montreal, where ongoing rain delayed the start of the other semi-final between Elena Rybakina and Liudmila Samsonova until Sunday. Rybakina and Samsonova are now scheduled to begin their match at 1:30 p.m. ET (1730 GMT) on Sunday, leaving the winner with little downtime before the final, which will begin "after suitable rest" and not before 5:30 p.m. American world number three Pegula, playing in her third consecutive Canadian Open semi-final, broke Swiatek's serve 11 times and managed her way through the big moments of the match better than the four-times Grand Slam winner. "She always makes it tough but of course it's incredibly rewarding to beat the number one player in the world and I am sure that will give me a lot of confidence going into tomorrow and the next couple weeks," Pegula said securing a spot in her first Canadian Open final. Neither player was able to defend their serve until Pegula held to love for a 4-2 lead and the American followed that by going up a double break before producing a pair of aces to close out the first set on her next service game. Swiatek looked to have settled into a groove as she opened the second set with her first service hold of the day followed by a pair of breaks for a 3-1 lead. Pegula, however, clawed back and opened up a 5-4 lead after breaking Swiatek for the eighth time but was unable to serve out the match as the Pole levelled the frame before going on to force the decider. Swiatek won the first eight points of the third set to build a 2-0 lead but Pegula kept cool and twice came back from a break down en route to securing one of the biggest wins of her career. Rybakina reached the semis with a win over Daria Kasatkina in a match that lasted nearly three and a half hours and ended just before 3 a.m. on Saturday. Samsonova booked her place in the final four with a win over Belinda Bencic during Friday's night session after beating Aryna Sabalenka in the day session. Samsonova has won both her previous meetings with Rybakina, including a first-round clash in Montreal two years ago. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tennis: Jannik Sinner thrashes Tommy Paul to set up Canadian Open final clash with Alex De Minaur

Novak Djokovic has moved a step closer to his 24th Grand Slam title after he outclassed Italian Jannik Sineer 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 in the semifinal of the Wimbledon Championships 2023 on Friday, July 14. The Serbian was at his fluent best and faced little resistance against the Italian which will now see him face the winner of Carlos Alcaraz and Daniil Medvedev in Sunday’s final at the Center Court. Djokovic has only dropped two sets on his way to the final and will look to join Margaret Court for most singles Grand Slam titles won.

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Novak Djokovic has become the first player in history to reach 35 Grand Slam singles finals 🤯<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Wimbledon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Wimbledon</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DjokerNole</a> <a href="https://t.co/8NYR6dTEdy">pic.twitter.com/8NYR6dTEdy</a>
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) <a href="https://twitter.com/Wimbledon/status/1679878775499116544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Novak in ninth Wimbledon final</h2>

The defending champion has not lost at the Championships since 2017 and booked his ninth final in London. He has enjoyed a stellar run at the tournament, having last lost at the Center Court in the 2013 final against Andy Murray. Sinner was no closer to Djokovic and his experience in the tournament after he was caught a flight in front of the 23-time Grand Slam champion.

In the entire match, Sinner was not able to break Djokovic’s serve despite having set points in the third set. Having won the first two sets with relative ease, things were a little different in the third set where Novak once again showcased his quality by winning his sixth tiebreaker of the Wimbledon championships. He is yet to lose a tiebreaker in the tournament and has dropped only two sets on his way to the final.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wi-vs-ind-he-is-ready-to-play-tests-in-australia-and-england-ishant-heaps-praise-on-yashasvi-jaiswal-615574">WI vs IND: 'He is ready to play Tests in Australia and England' - Ishant heaps praise on Yashasvi Jaiswal</a>

<h2>Medvedev or Alcaraz in the final</h2>

As things stand, the 36-year-old will play the winner of Alcaraz and Medvedev who will meet in the second semifinal later in the day. Djokovic will have bad memories of Medvedev having lost to him in the 2021 US Open final while he beat Alcaraz in the French Open before he got the better of Casper Ruud last month.

A win in Sunday’s final will also see Djokovic become the joint-most successful player in the history of the game. The Serb will join Margaret Court with 24 singles titles and will surface Serena Williams in the all-time tally. It will be his 35th major final, the most by any player in the history of the game.

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Novak Djokovic has moved a step closer to his 24th Grand Slam title after he outclassed Italian Jannik Sineer 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 in the semifinal of the Wimbledon Championships 2023 on Friday, July 14.

Novak Djokovic has moved a step closer to his 24th Grand Slam title after he outclassed Italian Jannik Sineer 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 in the semifinal of the Wimbledon Championships 2023 on Friday, July 14. The Serbian was at his fluent best and faced little resistance against the Italian which will now see him face the winner of Carlos Alcaraz and Daniil Medvedev in Sunday’s final at the Center Court. Djokovic has only dropped two sets on his way to the final and will look to join Margaret Court for most singles Grand Slam titles won. Novak Djokovic has become the first player in history to reach 35 Grand Slam singles finals 🤯#Wimbledon | @DjokerNole pic.twitter.com/8NYR6dTEdy — Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 14, 2023 × Novak in ninth Wimbledon final The defending champion has not lost at the Championships since 2017 and booked his ninth final in London. He has enjoyed a stellar run at the tournament, having last lost at the Center Court in the 2013 final against Andy Murray. Sinner was no closer to Djokovic and his experience in the tournament after he was caught a flight in front of the 23-time Grand Slam champion. In the entire match, Sinner was not able to break Djokovic’s serve despite having set points in the third set. Having won the first two sets with relative ease, things were a little different in the third set where Novak once again showcased his quality by winning his sixth tiebreaker of the Wimbledon championships. He is yet to lose a tiebreaker in the tournament and has dropped only two sets on his way to the final. ALSO READ | WI vs IND: 'He is ready to play Tests in Australia and England' - Ishant heaps praise on Yashasvi Jaiswal Medvedev or Alcaraz in the final As things stand, the 36-year-old will play the winner of Alcaraz and Medvedev who will meet in the second semifinal later in the day. Djokovic will have bad memories of Medvedev having lost to him in the 2021 US Open final while he beat Alcaraz in the French Open before he got the better of Casper Ruud last month. A win in Sunday’s final will also see Djokovic become the joint-most successful player in the history of the game. The Serb will join Margaret Court with 24 singles titles and will surface Serena Williams in the all-time tally. It will be his 35th major final, the most by any player in the history of the game. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Wimbledon 2023: Novak Djokovic moves closer to 24th Grand Slam title, outclasses Jannik Sinner in semis

Carlos Alcaraz takes on Daniil Medvedev on Friday for a place in the Wimbledon final, where history-chasing Novak Djokovic will likely be lying in wait. The Spanish top seed has looked increasingly impressive in his surge to the last four but nobody is betting against Djokovic, who faces eighth-ranked Jannik Sinner.

<h2>Jannik Sinner (ITA x8) v Novak Djokovic (SRB x2)</h2>

Jannik Sinner will not have slept easily after last year's painful Wimbledon quarter-final defeat against Novak Djokovic. The Italian was two sets up and on the brink of a career-defining win before the Serbian gave himself a pep talk during a toilet break.

Whatever he said to himself certainly worked -- he broke early and never looked back, losing just seven games over the last three sets as he romped to victory.

Djokovic is within sight of two seismic records -- equalling Roger Federer's mark of eight men's singles titles at Wimbledon and Margaret Court's all-time record of 24 Grand Slam titles. He is not the top seed but candidly says his astonishing achievements at the All England Club make him top dog.

"Judging with the results I had in my career here, previous four occasions of Wimbledon that I won, and reaching another semi-final, I consider myself favourite," said the 36-year-old.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-ons-jabeur-and-marketa-vondrousova-to-lock-horns-in-wimbledon-2023-final-615235">Tennis: Ons Jabeur and Marketa Vondrousova to lock horns in Wimbledon 2023 final</a>

But underdog Sinner, 21, believes he has absorbed lessons from last year's loss as he plots a monumental upset.

"Last year I played a very good match against him," he said. "I have learned about it. Hopefully I can show this also on the court. I'm going to stick with my game plan in my mind, and hopefully I can execute it in the best possible way."

<h3>Head-to-head (year, tournament, round, winner, score):</h3>

Djokovic leads 2-0

<ul>
	<li>2022&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Wimbledon&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; QF&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Djokovic 5-7, 2-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-2</li>
	<li>2021&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Monte Carlo&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; R32&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Djokovic 6-4, 6-2</li>
</ul>

<h2>Carlos Alcaraz (ESP x1) v Daniil Medvedev (x3)</h2>

Carlos Alcaraz has looked increasingly impressive at Wimbledon -- powering past his friend Holger Rune in the last eight. The Spaniard has rattled off 10 straight wins on grass, including his title-winning run at Queen's, and is seen as the man most likely to dethrone Djokovic.

But before he can even contemplate a first final, he faces a tough task against Russian third seed Daniil Medvedev, who brushed him aside in the second round two years ago.

Alcaraz, who has rocketed up the rankings since then, described Medvedev as a "complete player".

"He's an octopus," he said. "He catches every ball. It is amazing, he's an amazing athlete."

The 20-year-old Alcaraz, who won the US Open in 2022 and beat Medvedev convincingly in the Indian Wells final earlier this year, is talking a good game.

"I think I'm playing great, a lot of confidence right now," he said. "So it's going to be a really good match I think. I going to enjoy."

Despite his high ranking, Medvedev's record at Wimbledon is modest -- his previous best run was reaching the fourth round in 2021.

The 27-year-old, who was unable to play last year due to the ban on Russian and Belarusian players, is wary of the "brutal" power of his young opponent but says he has found his rhythm on grass.

"I managed to find it so far," he said. "So hopefully I can find it for two more matches."

<h3>Head-to-head (year, tournament, round, winner, score):</h3>

Alcaraz and Medevdev level at 1-1

<ul>
	<li>2023&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Indian Wells&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; F&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Alcaraz&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 6-3, 6-2</li>
	<li>2021&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Wimbledon&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; R64&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Medvedev&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 6-4, 6-1, 6-2</li>
</ul>

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Carlos Alcaraz takes on Daniil Medvedev on Friday for a place in the Wimbledon final, where history-chasing Novak Djokovic will likely be lying in wait. The Spanish top seed has looked increasingly impressive in his surge to the last four but nobody is betting against Djokovic, who faces eighth-ranked Jannik Sinner.

Carlos Alcaraz takes on Daniil Medvedev on Friday for a place in the Wimbledon final, where history-chasing Novak Djokovic will likely be lying in wait. The Spanish top seed has looked increasingly impressive in his surge to the last four but nobody is betting against Djokovic, who faces eighth-ranked Jannik Sinner. Jannik Sinner (ITA x8) v Novak Djokovic (SRB x2) Jannik Sinner will not have slept easily after last year's painful Wimbledon quarter-final defeat against Novak Djokovic. The Italian was two sets up and on the brink of a career-defining win before the Serbian gave himself a pep talk during a toilet break. Whatever he said to himself certainly worked -- he broke early and never looked back, losing just seven games over the last three sets as he romped to victory. Djokovic is within sight of two seismic records -- equalling Roger Federer's mark of eight men's singles titles at Wimbledon and Margaret Court's all-time record of 24 Grand Slam titles. He is not the top seed but candidly says his astonishing achievements at the All England Club make him top dog. "Judging with the results I had in my career here, previous four occasions of Wimbledon that I won, and reaching another semi-final, I consider myself favourite," said the 36-year-old. ALSO READ: Tennis: Ons Jabeur and Marketa Vondrousova to lock horns in Wimbledon 2023 final But underdog Sinner, 21, believes he has absorbed lessons from last year's loss as he plots a monumental upset. "Last year I played a very good match against him," he said. "I have learned about it. Hopefully I can show this also on the court. I'm going to stick with my game plan in my mind, and hopefully I can execute it in the best possible way." Head-to-head (year, tournament, round, winner, score): Djokovic leads 2-0 2022 Wimbledon QF Djokovic 5-7, 2-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 2021 Monte Carlo R32 Djokovic 6-4, 6-2 Carlos Alcaraz (ESP x1) v Daniil Medvedev (x3) Carlos Alcaraz has looked increasingly impressive at Wimbledon -- powering past his friend Holger Rune in the last eight. The Spaniard has rattled off 10 straight wins on grass, including his title-winning run at Queen's, and is seen as the man most likely to dethrone Djokovic. But before he can even contemplate a first final, he faces a tough task against Russian third seed Daniil Medvedev, who brushed him aside in the second round two years ago. Alcaraz, who has rocketed up the rankings since then, described Medvedev as a "complete player". "He's an octopus," he said. "He catches every ball. It is amazing, he's an amazing athlete." The 20-year-old Alcaraz, who won the US Open in 2022 and beat Medvedev convincingly in the Indian Wells final earlier this year, is talking a good game. "I think I'm playing great, a lot of confidence right now," he said. "So it's going to be a really good match I think. I going to enjoy." Despite his high ranking, Medvedev's record at Wimbledon is modest -- his previous best run was reaching the fourth round in 2021. The 27-year-old, who was unable to play last year due to the ban on Russian and Belarusian players, is wary of the "brutal" power of his young opponent but says he has found his rhythm on grass. "I managed to find it so far," he said. "So hopefully I can find it for two more matches." Head-to-head (year, tournament, round, winner, score): Alcaraz and Medevdev level at 1-1 2023 Indian Wells F Alcaraz 6-3, 6-2 2021 Wimbledon R64 Medvedev 6-4, 6-1, 6-2 WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Wimbledon Men's Semifinals Preview - Carlos Alcaraz vs Daniil Medvedev, Novak Djokovic vs Jannik Sinner

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

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

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

Jannik Sinner was made to toil by Hubert Hurkacz as the Italian seventh seed saved a match point to seal a 3-6 7-6(6) 6-1 victory at the Monte Carlo Masters on Thursday and book his spot in the quarter-finals. Watched on by sprint great Usain Bolt in the stands, Hurkacz raced to a 3-0 lead before Sinner got on the board and the world number 13 wobbled towards the end of the opening set before wrapping it up with two fiery first serves.

Sinner, a Monaco quarter-finalist last year as well, found himself in more hot water shortly after the second set began but the 21-year-old hit back after dropping serve to grab a break and level at 2-2.

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Hurkacz raised his game to force a tiebreak and looked in control but the scrappy Sinner saved a match point and dragged the contest into a decider. The Italian then got his nose in front and held firm to complete the win as Hurkacz faded.

German qualifier Jan-Lennard Struff earlier stunned fourth seed Casper Ruud 6-1 7-6(6), ending the Estoril champion's nine-match winning streak on clay stretching back to last July.

World number one Novak Djokovic meets Lorenzo Musetti as he continues his quest for a record-extending 39th Masters trophy and builds momentum ahead of the French Open, while defending champion Stefanos Tsitsipas will play Nicolas Jarry.

In-form third seed Daniil Medvedev, the winner of four hardcourt tournaments in 2023, will take on Alexander Zverev in the pair's first claycourt meeting.

Italian Matteo Berrettini earlier withdrew from his meeting with sixth seed Holger Rune due to an abdominal injury, sending the Danish teenager through to the last eight.

Jannik Sinner was made to toil by Hubert Hurkacz as the Italian seventh seed saved a match point to seal a 3-6 7-6(6) 6-1 victory at the Monte Carlo Masters on Thursday and book his spot in the quarter-finals.

Jannik Sinner was made to toil by Hubert Hurkacz as the Italian seventh seed saved a match point to seal a 3-6 7-6(6) 6-1 victory at the Monte Carlo Masters on Thursday and book his spot in the quarter-finals. Watched on by sprint great Usain Bolt in the stands, Hurkacz raced to a 3-0 lead before Sinner got on the board and the world number 13 wobbled towards the end of the opening set before wrapping it up with two fiery first serves. Sinner, a Monaco quarter-finalist last year as well, found himself in more hot water shortly after the second set began but the 21-year-old hit back after dropping serve to grab a break and level at 2-2. ALSO READ: Bayern Munich suspend Sadio Mane for one match for punching teammate Leroy Sane following UCL loss Hurkacz raised his game to force a tiebreak and looked in control but the scrappy Sinner saved a match point and dragged the contest into a decider. The Italian then got his nose in front and held firm to complete the win as Hurkacz faded. German qualifier Jan-Lennard Struff earlier stunned fourth seed Casper Ruud 6-1 7-6(6), ending the Estoril champion's nine-match winning streak on clay stretching back to last July. World number one Novak Djokovic meets Lorenzo Musetti as he continues his quest for a record-extending 39th Masters trophy and builds momentum ahead of the French Open, while defending champion Stefanos Tsitsipas will play Nicolas Jarry. In-form third seed Daniil Medvedev, the winner of four hardcourt tournaments in 2023, will take on Alexander Zverev in the pair's first claycourt meeting. Italian Matteo Berrettini earlier withdrew from his meeting with sixth seed Holger Rune due to an abdominal injury, sending the Danish teenager through to the last eight.

2023 Monte Carlo Masters: Jannik Sinner enters quarters after beating Hubert Hurkacz 3-6 7-6(6) 6-1

Russian Daniil Medvedev claimed his fourth ATP title of the year with an emphatic victory over Italy's Jannik Sinner in the final of the Miami Open on Sunday. Sinner had upset world number one and defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in Friday's semi-final, but the 21-year-old struggled in the heat against the fourth seed Medvedev, who triumphed 7-5, 6-3.

The win was Medvedev's 19th career ATP title and his fifth in a Masters 1000 event and confirmed his dominance on hard courts in 2023.

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Sinner, also beaten in the Miami final two years ago and now with a 0-6 record against the Russian, said he had not been at 100%.

"We woke up this morning not at my best, I felt a little bit sick....unfortunately today I couldn't play at my best," said the Italian who, however said there had been no question of him pulling out of the contest. "No, it was not that bad. But, you know, with the heat, when you run a lot, it gets a little bit worse and worse. Obviously the first half an hour we played in the sun also," he said.

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Medvedev, who had already won three titles in three weeks at Rotterdam, Doha and Dubai before losing to Alcaraz in the Indian Wells final, started confidently, holding serve to love while Sinner's first service game was a real battle.

Sinner had to save a break point and fought through a 26-shot rally before coming through at the end of a 10-minute game.

In contrast, Medvedev again served to love but Sinner was showing signs of settling as he held his serve and then the Italian broke Medvedev to go 3-2 up, with a deft touch volley.

Medvedev immediately broke back, however, with Sinner's effort clipping the net and going out and after the Russian held again, the Italian had attention from the ATP trainer.

Sinner, looking uncomfortable in the bright sunshine, took a pill along with a powder in his water in the 87 F (30.5 C) heat.

Medvedev, looking composed and confident, grabbed the first set when Sinner was serving at 6-5 down and the Italian's poor shot into the net handed the Russian the crucial break.

Medvedev quickly got ahead in the second set when Sinner sent a forehand long but just as quickly handed the break back to Sinner.

But Sinner was making too many errors and when Medvedev broke again to go 3-1 up, the Italian was unable to turn things around and the world number five completed his first ever win in Miami.

"I'm really happy. Today was a tough match. It was probably the hottest day and the most humid during the day," Medvedev said. "It was not easy conditions. I don't know if Jannik had a small injury or cramp. I was also struggling, tried not to show it," he added.

Russian Daniil Medvedev claimed his fourth ATP title of the year with an emphatic victory over Italy's Jannik Sinner in the final of the Miami Open on Sunday. Sinner had upset world number one and defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in Friday's semi-final, but the 21-year-old struggled in the heat against the fourth seed Medvedev, who triumphed 7-5, 6-3.

Russian Daniil Medvedev claimed his fourth ATP title of the year with an emphatic victory over Italy's Jannik Sinner in the final of the Miami Open on Sunday. Sinner had upset world number one and defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in Friday's semi-final, but the 21-year-old struggled in the heat against the fourth seed Medvedev, who triumphed 7-5, 6-3. The win was Medvedev's 19th career ATP title and his fifth in a Masters 1000 event and confirmed his dominance on hard courts in 2023. 🏆@MiamiOpen pic.twitter.com/SP1sfeKLe9 — Daniil Medvedev (@DaniilMedwed) April 2, 2023 × Sinner, also beaten in the Miami final two years ago and now with a 0-6 record against the Russian, said he had not been at 100%. "We woke up this morning not at my best, I felt a little bit sick....unfortunately today I couldn't play at my best," said the Italian who, however said there had been no question of him pulling out of the contest. "No, it was not that bad. But, you know, with the heat, when you run a lot, it gets a little bit worse and worse. Obviously the first half an hour we played in the sun also," he said. ALSO READ: Boxing: Anthony Joshua insists on 'Battle of Britain' against Tyson Fury after win over Jermaine Franklin Medvedev, who had already won three titles in three weeks at Rotterdam, Doha and Dubai before losing to Alcaraz in the Indian Wells final, started confidently, holding serve to love while Sinner's first service game was a real battle. Sinner had to save a break point and fought through a 26-shot rally before coming through at the end of a 10-minute game. In contrast, Medvedev again served to love but Sinner was showing signs of settling as he held his serve and then the Italian broke Medvedev to go 3-2 up, with a deft touch volley. Medvedev immediately broke back, however, with Sinner's effort clipping the net and going out and after the Russian held again, the Italian had attention from the ATP trainer. Sinner, looking uncomfortable in the bright sunshine, took a pill along with a powder in his water in the 87 F (30.5 C) heat. Medvedev, looking composed and confident, grabbed the first set when Sinner was serving at 6-5 down and the Italian's poor shot into the net handed the Russian the crucial break. Medvedev quickly got ahead in the second set when Sinner sent a forehand long but just as quickly handed the break back to Sinner. But Sinner was making too many errors and when Medvedev broke again to go 3-1 up, the Italian was unable to turn things around and the world number five completed his first ever win in Miami. "I'm really happy. Today was a tough match. It was probably the hottest day and the most humid during the day," Medvedev said. "It was not easy conditions. I don't know if Jannik had a small injury or cramp. I was also struggling, tried not to show it," he added.

Miami Open: Russian Daniil Medvedev beats Jannik Sinner 7-5, 6-3 to claim his fourth ATP title of the year

Italy's Jannik Sinner turned on the style to end Carlos Alcaraz's hopes of the "Sunshine Double" and his reign as world number one, triumphing 6-7 (4/7), 6-4, 6-2 in their Miami Open semi-final on Friday. Sinner will meet Russian Daniil Medvedev in Sunday's final while Alcaraz will lose his number one ranking to Novak Djokovic. Medvedev reached his fifth straight ATP Tour final with a 7-6 (7/5), 3-6, 6-3 win over fellow Russian Karen Khachanov.

The disappointment for the 19-year-old Alcaraz, the defending champion in Miami and coming off a title at Indian Wells, will be tinged with frustration after he struggled in the third set with leg cramps.

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It had been an enthralling and entertaining power-hitting performance from both men in the first set, with an incredible 25-shot exchange in the seventh game, bring the crowd to their feet. The intense, high quality set was eventually won by the Spaniard after a tie-break, but an inspired Sinner fought back in the second. Sinner broke in the first game and although Alcaraz broke back to make it 2-2, the 21-year-old Italian sensed his moment was arriving and showed confidence in his powerful groundstrokes.

- Worried and confused -

The world number one was moving with difficulty and was broken on his first serve in the deciding set. Looking in discomfort, he crouched down on his baseline in between points and shot some worried and confused looks to his team in the stands. Sinner chose some more conservative strokes and although Alcaraz appeared to recover a little, the Italian ran out the winner in three hours. &nbsp;

Alcaraz said his problems had appeared during a bathroom break after the second set.

"I went to bathroom for five minutes and yeah, everything went down for me a little bit. I stopped myself. I started cramping a little bit. You know, after a really tough match it's, well, it is tough to stop the match for five minutes," he said. "I started cramping at the beginning of the third set, but it wasn't the reason for I lost the match. I came back...I started to feel better but of course Jannik, he was better than me in the third set. That's the truth," he added.

Sinner had lost to Alcaraz in straight sets in their meeting at the same stage in Indian Wells and he said he could feel just how high the quality of their encounter at Hard Rock Stadium had been.

"When both players play tennis like this it is very nice to play, you can feel it with the crowds. There was just a great energy with everything. It is just nice to be part of matches like this," he said.

Sinner also said that he had suffered some cramping during the second set but recovered quickly.

"I knew that I had to go on and wait for the right moment," he said. "I feel ready to compete and I am happy to be in the final," he added.

Medvedev enters final

The 27-year-old Medvedev, playing against his boyhood friend, survived a second-set comeback but his trademark precision stroke play saw him through against the big-serving Khachanov in a high quality encounter. The contest saw a series of long rallies as Medvedev fended off Khachanov's thumping shots from the baseline and then pinned his opponent back on his service game.

Medvedev hit 13 aces and saved four of six break points as the match turned decisively in his favor when he broke Khachanov in the fourth game of the third set.

Medvedev won 82% (14 of 17) of his first-serve points in the final set and was relieved to have beaten a player who knows his game so well.

"In my opinion, it was a top match," Medvedev said. "In the first set when we lost our serves, it was just a good game from the returner. In the second set, I had one bad game and he won the set. I had one break point, I could have done better. He had a break point in the first game of the third set, I managed to play well. He had one bad game in the third set, I managed to take it and I am really happy to be through. It was a very tough match".

Italy's Jannik Sinner turned on the style to end Carlos Alcaraz's hopes of the "Sunshine Double" and his reign as world number one, triumphing 6-7 (4/7), 6-4, 6-2 in their Miami Open semi-final on Friday.

Italy's Jannik Sinner turned on the style to end Carlos Alcaraz's hopes of the "Sunshine Double" and his reign as world number one, triumphing 6-7 (4/7), 6-4, 6-2 in their Miami Open semi-final on Friday. Sinner will meet Russian Daniil Medvedev in Sunday's final while Alcaraz will lose his number one ranking to Novak Djokovic. Medvedev reached his fifth straight ATP Tour final with a 7-6 (7/5), 3-6, 6-3 win over fellow Russian Karen Khachanov. The disappointment for the 19-year-old Alcaraz, the defending champion in Miami and coming off a title at Indian Wells, will be tinged with frustration after he struggled in the third set with leg cramps. ALSO READ: Premier League: Marcus Rashford doubt for Man Utd's crunch Newcastle affair despite returning to training It had been an enthralling and entertaining power-hitting performance from both men in the first set, with an incredible 25-shot exchange in the seventh game, bring the crowd to their feet. The intense, high quality set was eventually won by the Spaniard after a tie-break, but an inspired Sinner fought back in the second. Sinner broke in the first game and although Alcaraz broke back to make it 2-2, the 21-year-old Italian sensed his moment was arriving and showed confidence in his powerful groundstrokes. - Worried and confused - The world number one was moving with difficulty and was broken on his first serve in the deciding set. Looking in discomfort, he crouched down on his baseline in between points and shot some worried and confused looks to his team in the stands. Sinner chose some more conservative strokes and although Alcaraz appeared to recover a little, the Italian ran out the winner in three hours. Alcaraz said his problems had appeared during a bathroom break after the second set. "I went to bathroom for five minutes and yeah, everything went down for me a little bit. I stopped myself. I started cramping a little bit. You know, after a really tough match it's, well, it is tough to stop the match for five minutes," he said. "I started cramping at the beginning of the third set, but it wasn't the reason for I lost the match. I came back...I started to feel better but of course Jannik, he was better than me in the third set. That's the truth," he added. Sinner had lost to Alcaraz in straight sets in their meeting at the same stage in Indian Wells and he said he could feel just how high the quality of their encounter at Hard Rock Stadium had been. "When both players play tennis like this it is very nice to play, you can feel it with the crowds. There was just a great energy with everything. It is just nice to be part of matches like this," he said. Sinner also said that he had suffered some cramping during the second set but recovered quickly. "I knew that I had to go on and wait for the right moment," he said. "I feel ready to compete and I am happy to be in the final," he added. Medvedev enters final The 27-year-old Medvedev, playing against his boyhood friend, survived a second-set comeback but his trademark precision stroke play saw him through against the big-serving Khachanov in a high quality encounter. The contest saw a series of long rallies as Medvedev fended off Khachanov's thumping shots from the baseline and then pinned his opponent back on his service game. Medvedev hit 13 aces and saved four of six break points as the match turned decisively in his favor when he broke Khachanov in the fourth game of the third set. Medvedev won 82% (14 of 17) of his first-serve points in the final set and was relieved to have beaten a player who knows his game so well. "In my opinion, it was a top match," Medvedev said. "In the first set when we lost our serves, it was just a good game from the returner. In the second set, I had one bad game and he won the set. I had one break point, I could have done better. He had a break point in the first game of the third set, I managed to play well. He had one bad game in the third set, I managed to take it and I am really happy to be through. It was a very tough match".

Miami Open: Jannik Sinner ends Carlos Alcaraz's dream run, sets up final date with Russian Daniil Medvedev

Jannik Sinner stunned top seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets to reach the Rotterdam ATP quarter-finals on Thursday while ninth-ranked Holger Rune was knocked out by world number 160 Gijs Brouwer.

Italian 21-year-old Sinner, ranked 14 in the world and fresh from his Montpellier title last weekend, came through 6-4, 6-3.

It was only his second win over world number three Tsitsipas in seven meetings and avenged a five-set loss to the Greek player in the last-16 at the Australian Open last month.&nbsp;

Sinner will face Swiss veteran and three-time major winner Stan Wawrinka for a place in the semi-finals.

Highly-regarded 19-year-old Rune was trailing American-born Dutchman Brouwer 6-4, 4-0 when he quit their second-round tie.

Rune retired after a medical timeout failed to fix his physical problems.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-wins-his-10th-australian-open-title-beats-stefanos-tsitsipas-in-the-final-in-straight-sets-557024">Read more:&nbsp;Novak Djokovic wins his 10th Australian Open title, beats Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets</a>

Brouwer will face compatriot Tallon Griekspoor in Friday's quarter-finals.

Defending champion Felix Auger-Aliassime of Canada eased past Gregoire Barrere to reach the last eight.

The 22-year-old from Montreal dispatched the last French player standing 6-4, 6-3 to set up a meeting with sixth seed Daniil

Medvedev, who beat Botic van de Zandschulp 6-2, 6-2, saving all six break points he faced.

Number three seed Auger-Aliassime secured his place in the last eight on the back of a solid first service, firing nine aces.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/novak-djokovic-wins-10th-australian-open-title-beats-tsitispas-557060">WATCH |&nbsp;Novak Djokovic wins 10th Australian Open Title, beats Tsitispas</a>

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Medvedev will be the favourite to win their encounter having won all of his four meetings with the Canadian, with all but one going the distance.&nbsp;

"Felix is a top player. He won here last year and played amazing at the end of last year. Looking forward to a tough match and hopefully I can be at my best," said Medvedev.

Australia's Alex de Minaur, who upset second seed Andrey Rublev in straight sets on Wednesday, plays Grigor Dimitrov in Friday's other quarter-final.

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Jannik Sinner stunned top seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets to reach the Rotterdam ATP quarter-finals on Thursday while ninth-ranked Holger Rune was knocked out by world number 160 Gijs Brouwer.

Jannik Sinner stunned top seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets to reach the Rotterdam ATP quarter-finals on Thursday while ninth-ranked Holger Rune was knocked out by world number 160 Gijs Brouwer. Italian 21-year-old Sinner, ranked 14 in the world and fresh from his Montpellier title last weekend, came through 6-4, 6-3. It was only his second win over world number three Tsitsipas in seven meetings and avenged a five-set loss to the Greek player in the last-16 at the Australian Open last month. Sinner will face Swiss veteran and three-time major winner Stan Wawrinka for a place in the semi-finals. Highly-regarded 19-year-old Rune was trailing American-born Dutchman Brouwer 6-4, 4-0 when he quit their second-round tie. Rune retired after a medical timeout failed to fix his physical problems. Read more: Novak Djokovic wins his 10th Australian Open title, beats Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets Brouwer will face compatriot Tallon Griekspoor in Friday's quarter-finals. Defending champion Felix Auger-Aliassime of Canada eased past Gregoire Barrere to reach the last eight. The 22-year-old from Montreal dispatched the last French player standing 6-4, 6-3 to set up a meeting with sixth seed Daniil Medvedev, who beat Botic van de Zandschulp 6-2, 6-2, saving all six break points he faced. Number three seed Auger-Aliassime secured his place in the last eight on the back of a solid first service, firing nine aces. WATCH | Novak Djokovic wins 10th Australian Open Title, beats Tsitispas × Medvedev will be the favourite to win their encounter having won all of his four meetings with the Canadian, with all but one going the distance. "Felix is a top player. He won here last year and played amazing at the end of last year. Looking forward to a tough match and hopefully I can be at my best," said Medvedev. Australia's Alex de Minaur, who upset second seed Andrey Rublev in straight sets on Wednesday, plays Grigor Dimitrov in Friday's other quarter-final. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Australian Open finalist Tsitsipas handed shocking loss by world number 160

Spanish teen sensation Carlos Alcaraz stormed into the semi-finals of the US Open on Thursday after defeating Jannik Sinner in a five-set hard-fought thrilling clash. In a classic encounter that broke the record for the latest finish in tournament history when play ended at 2:50 a.m, Alcaraz outlasted Sinner 6-3, 6-7(7), 6-7(0), 7-5, 6-3 in a match that lasted more than five hours and 15-minute.

The battle was the second-longest match in US Open history. The 19-year-old will face American Frances Tiafoe on Friday in the semi-finals. Sinner, who hit 11 double faults in the match, served for his place in the semi-final at 5-4 in the fourth set.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-open-2022-frances-tiafoe-defeats-andrey-rublev-to-enter-semi-finals-513982" hreflang="en">US Open 2022: Frances Tiafoe defeats Andrey Rublev to enter semi-finals</a>

Although his serve got him out of some trouble, Alcaraz never went away and again battled back onto even terms. The 21-year-old Sinner then led by a break in the third set, but Alcaraz never went away, continuing to fire with his remarkable power from the baseline.

The Spaniard won the final four games of the clash to advance."Honestly, I still don`t know how I did it. You have to believe in yourself. I believed in my game. It was really difficult to close out the match. I tried to stay calm, but it is difficult in the moment," Alcaraz said in an on-court interview.

Earlier, the 27th seed Karen Khachanov fought 31 aces en route to a 7-5, 4-6, 7-5 6-7(3) 6-4 triumph in three hours, 39 minutes over Nick Kyrgios after earlier coming within two points of victory in the fourth set.

"I did it! I did it! I`m really proud of myself, I was focused from the beginning to the end. It was a crazy match but I came ready to fight and to play five sets," ATP.com quoted Khachanov as saying.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/polands-iga-swiatek-aryna-sabalenka-reach-us-open-semi-finals-513984" hreflang="en">No. 1 ranked Iga Swiatek, Aryna Sabalenka reach US Open semi-finals</a>

"From the beginning until the end, great performance - at least I will talk about myself, from my side," Khachanov said in his post-match press conference. "I stayed there. I waited for my chance. I created them as well.

"I`m super happy, super proud that I could finish the match, I could take it. Serving for the match [is] never easy. [I am] just super happy to do this step forward to make my first semi-final," he added.

Spanish teen sensation Carlos Alcaraz stormed into the semi-finals of the US Open on Thursday after defeating Jannik Sinner in a five-set hard-fought thrilling clash.

Spanish teen sensation Carlos Alcaraz stormed into the semi-finals of the US Open on Thursday after defeating Jannik Sinner in a five-set hard-fought thrilling clash. In a classic encounter that broke the record for the latest finish in tournament history when play ended at 2:50 a.m, Alcaraz outlasted Sinner 6-3, 6-7(7), 6-7(0), 7-5, 6-3 in a match that lasted more than five hours and 15-minute. The battle was the second-longest match in US Open history. The 19-year-old will face American Frances Tiafoe on Friday in the semi-finals. Sinner, who hit 11 double faults in the match, served for his place in the semi-final at 5-4 in the fourth set. ALSO READ: US Open 2022: Frances Tiafoe defeats Andrey Rublev to enter semi-finals Although his serve got him out of some trouble, Alcaraz never went away and again battled back onto even terms. The 21-year-old Sinner then led by a break in the third set, but Alcaraz never went away, continuing to fire with his remarkable power from the baseline. The Spaniard won the final four games of the clash to advance."Honestly, I still don`t know how I did it. You have to believe in yourself. I believed in my game. It was really difficult to close out the match. I tried to stay calm, but it is difficult in the moment," Alcaraz said in an on-court interview. Earlier, the 27th seed Karen Khachanov fought 31 aces en route to a 7-5, 4-6, 7-5 6-7(3) 6-4 triumph in three hours, 39 minutes over Nick Kyrgios after earlier coming within two points of victory in the fourth set. "I did it! I did it! I`m really proud of myself, I was focused from the beginning to the end. It was a crazy match but I came ready to fight and to play five sets," ATP.com quoted Khachanov as saying. ALSO READ: No. 1 ranked Iga Swiatek, Aryna Sabalenka reach US Open semi-finals "From the beginning until the end, great performance - at least I will talk about myself, from my side," Khachanov said in his post-match press conference. "I stayed there. I waited for my chance. I created them as well. "I`m super happy, super proud that I could finish the match, I could take it. Serving for the match [is] never easy. [I am] just super happy to do this step forward to make my first semi-final," he added.

US Open: Teen sensation Carlos Alcaraz flies past Jannik Sinner to cement position in the semi-finals

Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz beat 2014 champion Marin Cilic 6-4 3-6 6-4 4-6 6-3 at the U.S. Open on Monday to set up a next-generation quarter-final clash against Jannik Sinner.

After battling for three hours and 53 minutes at Arthur Ashe Stadium, where the roof was closed due to rain, Alcaraz, 19, dropped to his knees in jubilation after sealing the contest on his first match point when Cilic's return hit the net.

The sizeable crowd on the main show court gave the players a standing ovation with the clock striking 2.24 a.m., a couple of minutes short of the latest ever finish at the New York Grand Slam.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brilliant-tiafoe-sends-nadal-crashing-out-of-us-open-513291">Brilliant Frances Tiafoe sends Rafael Nadal crashing out of US Open</a>

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UN-BELIEVABLE<a href="https://twitter.com/carlosalcaraz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@carlosalcaraz</a> wins an absolute thriller in Ashe. <a href="https://t.co/NjUwmetYSy">pic.twitter.com/NjUwmetYSy</a>
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Alcaraz's victory over the 15th-seeded Croatian ensured there will be a new men's Grand Slam champion on Sunday and also kept the Spaniard in contention to become the youngest world number one when the ATP rankings are updated after the final.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-no1-iga-swiatek-survives-surprise-test-from-jule-niemeier-to-reach-us-open-quarters-513332">World no.1 Iga Swiatek survives surprise test from Jule Niemeier to reach US Open quarters</a>

The third seed will next meet 21-year-old Italian Sinner, seeded 11th, for a maiden Grand Slam semi-final spot.

Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz beat 2014 champion Marin Cilic 6-4 3-6 6-4 4-6 6-3 at the U.S. Open on Monday to set up a next-generation quarter-final clash against Jannik Sinner.

Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz beat 2014 champion Marin Cilic 6-4 3-6 6-4 4-6 6-3 at the U.S. Open on Monday to set up a next-generation quarter-final clash against Jannik Sinner. After battling for three hours and 53 minutes at Arthur Ashe Stadium, where the roof was closed due to rain, Alcaraz, 19, dropped to his knees in jubilation after sealing the contest on his first match point when Cilic's return hit the net. The sizeable crowd on the main show court gave the players a standing ovation with the clock striking 2.24 a.m., a couple of minutes short of the latest ever finish at the New York Grand Slam. Also Read: Brilliant Frances Tiafoe sends Rafael Nadal crashing out of US Open UN-BELIEVABLE@carlosalcaraz wins an absolute thriller in Ashe. pic.twitter.com/NjUwmetYSy — US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 6, 2022 × Alcaraz's victory over the 15th-seeded Croatian ensured there will be a new men's Grand Slam champion on Sunday and also kept the Spaniard in contention to become the youngest world number one when the ATP rankings are updated after the final. Also Read: World no.1 Iga Swiatek survives surprise test from Jule Niemeier to reach US Open quarters The third seed will next meet 21-year-old Italian Sinner, seeded 11th, for a maiden Grand Slam semi-final spot.

US Open 2022: Carlos Alcaraz beats Marin Cilic in late-night thriller to set up Sinner clash in quarters

The action continues in Wimbledon 2022 as the competition is getting intense with each passing day in every category. On Tuesday (July 05), Serbian star Novak Djokovic will play his quarter-final match as he will be up against the 20-year-old Italian player Jannik Sinner in what promises to be an enthralling battle.&nbsp;

For the unversed, Djokovic will be playing his 13th quarterfinal at the premier tournament in London. He went past&nbsp;Dutchman Tim van Rijthoven in four sets in the fourth round whereas&nbsp;Sinner was in top form and beat Carlos Alcaraz in an intense content, which was of four sets, to enter&nbsp;his made his maiden Wimbledon quarterfinal appearance.&nbsp;

Here's the live streaming details of the Novak Djokovic vs Jannik Sinner quarter-final&nbsp;match in Wimbledon 2022

Where will the Novak Djokovic vs Jannik Sinner quarter-final&nbsp;tie in Wimbledon 2022&nbsp;be played?

The&nbsp;Djokovic vs&nbsp;Sinner quarter-final&nbsp;match at Wimbledon 2022&nbsp;will be held at the&nbsp;Centre Court.

When will the&nbsp;Novak Djokovic vs Jannik Sinner quarter-final&nbsp;match in Wimbledon 2022&nbsp;commence?

The Djokovic vs&nbsp;Sinner quarter-final clash&nbsp;at Wimbledon 2022&nbsp;will kick off&nbsp;at 6:00 pm IST on Tuesday evening (July 05).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/seven-times-major-champion-mats-wilander-slams-toxic-atmosphere-in-nick-kyrgios-stefanos-tsitsipas-tie-494561">Seven-times major champion Mats Wilander slams toxic atmosphere in Nick Kyrgios- Stefanos Tsitsipas tie</a>

Which TV channels will broadcast the Novak Djokovic vs Jannik Sinner quarter-final&nbsp;match in Wimbledon 2022?

The&nbsp;Djokovic vs&nbsp;Sinner quarter-final&nbsp;tie at Wimbledon 2022 will be available for&nbsp;broadcast on Sony Sports Network.&nbsp;

How to watch the live streaming of the Novak Djokovic vs Jannik Sinner quarter-final&nbsp;match in Wimbledon 2022?

The&nbsp;Djokovic vs&nbsp;Sinner quarter-final&nbsp;fixture&nbsp;at Wimbledon 2022 will be&nbsp;live-streamed on the Disney+ Hotstar website and app.

The action continues in Wimbledon 2022 as the competition is getting intense with each passing day in every category. On Tuesday (July 05), Serbian star Novak Djokovic will play his quarter-final match as he will be up against the 20-year-old Italian player Jannik Sinner in what promises to be an enthralling battle.

The action continues in Wimbledon 2022 as the competition is getting intense with each passing day in every category. On Tuesday (July 05), Serbian star Novak Djokovic will play his quarter-final match as he will be up against the 20-year-old Italian player Jannik Sinner in what promises to be an enthralling battle. For the unversed, Djokovic will be playing his 13th quarterfinal at the premier tournament in London. He went past Dutchman Tim van Rijthoven in four sets in the fourth round whereas Sinner was in top form and beat Carlos Alcaraz in an intense content, which was of four sets, to enter his made his maiden Wimbledon quarterfinal appearance. Here's the live streaming details of the Novak Djokovic vs Jannik Sinner quarter-final match in Wimbledon 2022 Where will the Novak Djokovic vs Jannik Sinner quarter-final tie in Wimbledon 2022 be played? The Djokovic vs Sinner quarter-final match at Wimbledon 2022 will be held at the Centre Court. When will the Novak Djokovic vs Jannik Sinner quarter-final match in Wimbledon 2022 commence? The Djokovic vs Sinner quarter-final clash at Wimbledon 2022 will kick off at 6:00 pm IST on Tuesday evening (July 05). ALSO READ | Seven-times major champion Mats Wilander slams toxic atmosphere in Nick Kyrgios- Stefanos Tsitsipas tie Which TV channels will broadcast the Novak Djokovic vs Jannik Sinner quarter-final match in Wimbledon 2022? The Djokovic vs Sinner quarter-final tie at Wimbledon 2022 will be available for broadcast on Sony Sports Network. How to watch the live streaming of the Novak Djokovic vs Jannik Sinner quarter-final match in Wimbledon 2022? The Djokovic vs Sinner quarter-final fixture at Wimbledon 2022 will be live-streamed on the Disney+ Hotstar website and app.

Novak Djokovic vs Jannik Sinner live streaming: When and where to watch Wimbledon QF tie in India?

Top seed Novak Djokovic raised his level to put an end to the fairytale run of Dutch wildcard Tim van Rijthoven during a battling 6-2 4-6 6-1 6-2 victory on Sunday and keep his Wimbledon title defence on track. 
Chasing a fourth straight Wimbledon crown and seventh overall at the grasscourt major, Djokovic is now unbeaten on the manicured lawns of the All England Club since retiring due to an elbow injury against Tomas Berdych in the 2017 quarter-finals.

Djokovic will play Italian 10th seed Jannik Sinner for a place in Friday`s semi-finals after the 20-year-old ousted fifth-seeded Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz in the previous contest on Centre Court. Van Rijthoven was ranked 205th in the world last month and had not even won a Challenger Tour title when he triumphed at the ATP 250 grasscourt event in `s-Hertogenbosch, Netherlands, defeating world number one Daniil Medvedev 6-4 6-1 in the final.

"Very tough. I mean, I have never faced him before and he`s kind of a new face on the tour," Djokovic said standing on the same lawn that he graced a few hours earlier as part of a parade of former champions to celebrate Centre Court`s 100 years. "He was on a streak on this surface and I knew that it wasn`t going to be easy with that serve and a lot of talent, great touch, powerful forehand, he can do a lot of damage. It took me a little bit of time to get used to his pace."

Djokovic broke the Dutchman at the first opportunity but was soon forced to dig deep on his own serve when van Rijthoven set up two break point chances. But the Serbian saved both and let out a huge roar that sounded even louder with the roof closed due to the lateness of the match.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-hope-i-can-come-back-roger-federer-hints-at-wimbledon-return-on-surprise-visit-494190">'I hope I can come back': Roger Federer hints at Wimbledon return on surprise visit</a>

Van Rijthoven missed one more chance on Djokovic`s serve in the seventh game and instead it was the top seed who got a second break to bag the set with an exquisite backhand down the line. 
The 25-year-old Van Rijthoven, who said it was his dream before the tournament to play Djokovic, would not be beaten easily though. He started putting Djokovic under pressure with his heavy forehand and finally managed to crack his opponent`s serve in the seventh game with cries of "Come on Tim" reverberating in the stands.

The Dutch, who rates his delivery as his greatest weapon, saved four break points while serving for the second set at 5-4 before slamming down two consecutive aces to level the contest at one set apiece. 
With less than 90 minutes left for an impending curfew at 11 pm local time, many would have wondered if the match was headed for a Monday finish. But Djokovic had other ideas. He slipped a few times on important points during the first two sets as he played a few metres behind the baseline to allow himself more time against the hard-hitting Van Rijthoven.

After losing the second set he decided to change tactics and pumped up his aggression. The 35-year-old showed why he has won 25 consecutive matches on grass and broke his opponent`s serve twice to completely shut out the momentum the Dutchman had gained.

Djokovic got a break early in the fourth and let out roars of "come on" with his fists clenched, while a second break in the seventh game put the world number three firmly in control. The 20-times major champion then converted his first match point with a forehand winner -- his 28th of the evening -- to keep his title defence rolling on grass.

"Conditions under the roof played a little bit different, a bit slippery. It takes a bit of time or a bit of adjustment but overall I closed out the match well," said Djokovic, claiming he was unaware of the approaching curfew. 
"I`m lucky. It`s never really pleasant if you can`t finish the match the same day. Glad I did."

Top seed Novak Djokovic raised his level to put an end to the fairytale run of Dutch wildcard Tim van Rijthoven during a battling 6-2 4-6 6-1 6-2 victory on Sunday and keep his Wimbledon title defence on track.

Top seed Novak Djokovic raised his level to put an end to the fairytale run of Dutch wildcard Tim van Rijthoven during a battling 6-2 4-6 6-1 6-2 victory on Sunday and keep his Wimbledon title defence on track. Chasing a fourth straight Wimbledon crown and seventh overall at the grasscourt major, Djokovic is now unbeaten on the manicured lawns of the All England Club since retiring due to an elbow injury against Tomas Berdych in the 2017 quarter-finals. Djokovic will play Italian 10th seed Jannik Sinner for a place in Friday`s semi-finals after the 20-year-old ousted fifth-seeded Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz in the previous contest on Centre Court. Van Rijthoven was ranked 205th in the world last month and had not even won a Challenger Tour title when he triumphed at the ATP 250 grasscourt event in `s-Hertogenbosch, Netherlands, defeating world number one Daniil Medvedev 6-4 6-1 in the final. "Very tough. I mean, I have never faced him before and he`s kind of a new face on the tour," Djokovic said standing on the same lawn that he graced a few hours earlier as part of a parade of former champions to celebrate Centre Court`s 100 years. "He was on a streak on this surface and I knew that it wasn`t going to be easy with that serve and a lot of talent, great touch, powerful forehand, he can do a lot of damage. It took me a little bit of time to get used to his pace." Djokovic broke the Dutchman at the first opportunity but was soon forced to dig deep on his own serve when van Rijthoven set up two break point chances. But the Serbian saved both and let out a huge roar that sounded even louder with the roof closed due to the lateness of the match. ALSO READ | 'I hope I can come back': Roger Federer hints at Wimbledon return on surprise visit Van Rijthoven missed one more chance on Djokovic`s serve in the seventh game and instead it was the top seed who got a second break to bag the set with an exquisite backhand down the line. The 25-year-old Van Rijthoven, who said it was his dream before the tournament to play Djokovic, would not be beaten easily though. He started putting Djokovic under pressure with his heavy forehand and finally managed to crack his opponent`s serve in the seventh game with cries of "Come on Tim" reverberating in the stands. The Dutch, who rates his delivery as his greatest weapon, saved four break points while serving for the second set at 5-4 before slamming down two consecutive aces to level the contest at one set apiece. With less than 90 minutes left for an impending curfew at 11 pm local time, many would have wondered if the match was headed for a Monday finish. But Djokovic had other ideas. He slipped a few times on important points during the first two sets as he played a few metres behind the baseline to allow himself more time against the hard-hitting Van Rijthoven. After losing the second set he decided to change tactics and pumped up his aggression. The 35-year-old showed why he has won 25 consecutive matches on grass and broke his opponent`s serve twice to completely shut out the momentum the Dutchman had gained. Djokovic got a break early in the fourth and let out roars of "come on" with his fists clenched, while a second break in the seventh game put the world number three firmly in control. The 20-times major champion then converted his first match point with a forehand winner -- his 28th of the evening -- to keep his title defence rolling on grass. "Conditions under the roof played a little bit different, a bit slippery. It takes a bit of time or a bit of adjustment but overall I closed out the match well," said Djokovic, claiming he was unaware of the approaching curfew. "I`m lucky. It`s never really pleasant if you can`t finish the match the same day. Glad I did."

Wimbledon 2022: Novak Djokovic tames wildcard Tim Van Rijthoven to set up Jannik Sinner clash in QFs

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