Andrey Rublev won the Madrid Open with a hard-fought 4-6, 7-5, 7-5 victory over Felix Auger-Aliassime on Sunday to secure his second title of the year, despite battling with illness.

The Russian world number eight said he was "almost dead every day" and could barely sleep this week after securing a career second Masters 1000 victory.

Rublev had lost four consecutive matches before arriving in the Spanish capital but came from a set down to beat his Canadian opponent.

The 26-year-old triumphed at the Hong Kong Open in January but struggled since before turning around his form in Madrid, dropping just one set on the way to what proved a tense final.

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"I think it was an incredible match, Felix deserved (in) the same way as me to win today and we showed a great battle together, I think the most important thing was that the people enjoyed it," said Rublev on court. "Our sport is like this, we cannot have both winners."

Rublev, who takes the Madrid crown from double champion Carlos Alcaraz whom he beat in the quarter-finals, said he had played despite feeling ill at times this week and hailed his doctors for helping him through.

"If you knew what I had been through in the past nine days you would not imagine that I would be able to win a title," he added. "I was almost dead every day, I was not sleeping at night -- the last three, four days I didn't sleep."

Auger-Aliassime reached the final after his opponent Jiri Lehecka retired hurt in the semi-finals and quarter-final opponent Jannik Sinner withdrew with a hip injury, with the ATP draw at the clay-court tournament struck by misfortune.

However the 23-year-old Canadian, ranked 35th in the world, gave everything he had in his first Masters 1000 final appearance.

<h2>- Tense battle -</h2>

Auger-Aliassime started superbly by breaking to love in the first game and then again in the fifth game for a 4-1 lead.

Rublev recovered a break when Auger-Aliassime went long, and consolidated for a 4-3 deficit.

The Russian saved a set point to hold for 5-4 down but Auger-Aliassime clinched it at the second opportunity with a forehand down the line.

In the second set the Canadian held for 3-3 with a brilliant drop shot after Rublev spurned a break point.

They stayed on serve until the 12th game when Rublev brought up two set points, converting the second to take it to a deciding third set.

Rublev raced through his service games and put heavy pressure on his opponent's serve, forcing a break point in the second game and two more in the fourth, none of which he could take.

Auger-Aliassime produced huge serves to fight his way out of tough spots, racking up 14 aces in the match to Rublev's seven.

However Rublev dropped just three points on his serve in the third set, while Auger-Aliassime trailed in all of his service games but always battled back, until the decisive 12th game.

Auger-Aliassime double-faulted to hand Rublev the title, with the Russian falling to the floor in delight.

Andrey Rublev won the Madrid Open with a hard-fought 4-6, 7-5, 7-5 victory over Felix Auger-Aliassime on Sunday to secure his second title of the year, despite battling with illness.

Andrey Rublev won the Madrid Open with a hard-fought 4-6, 7-5, 7-5 victory over Felix Auger-Aliassime on Sunday to secure his second title of the year, despite battling with illness. The Russian world number eight said he was "almost dead every day" and could barely sleep this week after securing a career second Masters 1000 victory. Rublev had lost four consecutive matches before arriving in the Spanish capital but came from a set down to beat his Canadian opponent. The 26-year-old triumphed at the Hong Kong Open in January but struggled since before turning around his form in Madrid, dropping just one set on the way to what proved a tense final. ALSO READ: Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr. takes DIG at Barcelona defender after winning LaLiga title "I think it was an incredible match, Felix deserved (in) the same way as me to win today and we showed a great battle together, I think the most important thing was that the people enjoyed it," said Rublev on court. "Our sport is like this, we cannot have both winners." Rublev, who takes the Madrid crown from double champion Carlos Alcaraz whom he beat in the quarter-finals, said he had played despite feeling ill at times this week and hailed his doctors for helping him through. "If you knew what I had been through in the past nine days you would not imagine that I would be able to win a title," he added. "I was almost dead every day, I was not sleeping at night -- the last three, four days I didn't sleep." Auger-Aliassime reached the final after his opponent Jiri Lehecka retired hurt in the semi-finals and quarter-final opponent Jannik Sinner withdrew with a hip injury, with the ATP draw at the clay-court tournament struck by misfortune. However the 23-year-old Canadian, ranked 35th in the world, gave everything he had in his first Masters 1000 final appearance. - Tense battle - Auger-Aliassime started superbly by breaking to love in the first game and then again in the fifth game for a 4-1 lead. Rublev recovered a break when Auger-Aliassime went long, and consolidated for a 4-3 deficit. The Russian saved a set point to hold for 5-4 down but Auger-Aliassime clinched it at the second opportunity with a forehand down the line. In the second set the Canadian held for 3-3 with a brilliant drop shot after Rublev spurned a break point. They stayed on serve until the 12th game when Rublev brought up two set points, converting the second to take it to a deciding third set. Rublev raced through his service games and put heavy pressure on his opponent's serve, forcing a break point in the second game and two more in the fourth, none of which he could take. Auger-Aliassime produced huge serves to fight his way out of tough spots, racking up 14 aces in the match to Rublev's seven. However Rublev dropped just three points on his serve in the third set, while Auger-Aliassime trailed in all of his service games but always battled back, until the decisive 12th game. Auger-Aliassime double-faulted to hand Rublev the title, with the Russian falling to the floor in delight.

Tennis: Andrey Rublev battles ‘serious illness’ to win Madrid Open title

World number one Iga Swiatek edged Aryna Sabalenka 7-5 4-6 7-6(7) in a gripping and gruelling Madrid Open final to win the title for the first time on Saturday in what was a repeat of last year's summit clash at the WTA 1000 claycourt tournament.

Sabalenka had won the 2023 final in three sets but it was Swiatek who triumphed this time after saving three championship points to secure her 20th career title and deny the Belarusian a third title on the red clay of the Spanish capital.

The match was the first contest of the season between the top two in the women's rankings and it lived up to expectations, going down as the longest encounter between the two Grand Slam champions at three hours and 11 minutes.

Victory improved Swiatek's record over her Belarusian rival to 7-3 as the three-time&nbsp;French Open champion bagged the only major claycourt title that was missing on her glittering resume.

"Aryna, to many more finals! It's always a challenge playing you. Thanks for always motivating me and forcing me to be a better player," Swiatek said at the trophy presentation.

In the opening set, Sabalenka used her powerful forehand to great effect, firing winners past Swiatek that had the crowd roaring their approval, but the Belarusian struggled to convert break points against the world number one.

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In response, Swiatek was more measured in her approach to constructing points and made the decisive break at 5-5 before serving out the set, clinching it when Sabalenka's return popped up off the netcord and set up an easy winner for the Pole.

Sabalenka raised her intensity in the second set and took a 2-0 lead and nearly went 3-0 up but her first double fault of the match opened the door for Swiatek to get on the board before she broke again to put the set back on serve.

But this time, at 5-4, Sabalenka did not lose her focus as the Belarusian smashed a forehand winner down the line to force a decider and go the distance for the fifth time in six matches at the tournament.

Although the top seeds traded breaks in the final set, there was little to separate the pair until Sabalenka had match points.

However, Swiatek held her nerve when she served to stay in the contest, saving two match points en route to forcing the tiebreak.

Swiatek also had a match point snatched away from her before she clinched victory on her second opportunity when Sabalenka's return went long and the Pole fell to the ground in relief and exhaustion.

"I tried to make this match as long as possible... Hopefully next year it goes to me," Sabalenka said. "Three hours, that's a long one! Hopefully we recover fast for the next tournament."

World number one Iga Swiatek edged Aryna Sabalenka 7-5 4-6 7-6(7) in a gripping and gruelling Madrid Open final to win the title for the first time on Saturday in what was a repeat of last year's summit clash at the WTA 1000 claycourt tournament.

World number one Iga Swiatek edged Aryna Sabalenka 7-5 4-6 7-6(7) in a gripping and gruelling Madrid Open final to win the title for the first time on Saturday in what was a repeat of last year's summit clash at the WTA 1000 claycourt tournament. Sabalenka had won the 2023 final in three sets but it was Swiatek who triumphed this time after saving three championship points to secure her 20th career title and deny the Belarusian a third title on the red clay of the Spanish capital. The match was the first contest of the season between the top two in the women's rankings and it lived up to expectations, going down as the longest encounter between the two Grand Slam champions at three hours and 11 minutes. Victory improved Swiatek's record over her Belarusian rival to 7-3 as the three-time French Open champion bagged the only major claycourt title that was missing on her glittering resume. "Aryna, to many more finals! It's always a challenge playing you. Thanks for always motivating me and forcing me to be a better player," Swiatek said at the trophy presentation. In the opening set, Sabalenka used her powerful forehand to great effect, firing winners past Swiatek that had the crowd roaring their approval, but the Belarusian struggled to convert break points against the world number one. ALSO READ: Tennis: Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner withdraws from Italian Open due to injury In response, Swiatek was more measured in her approach to constructing points and made the decisive break at 5-5 before serving out the set, clinching it when Sabalenka's return popped up off the netcord and set up an easy winner for the Pole. Sabalenka raised her intensity in the second set and took a 2-0 lead and nearly went 3-0 up but her first double fault of the match opened the door for Swiatek to get on the board before she broke again to put the set back on serve. But this time, at 5-4, Sabalenka did not lose her focus as the Belarusian smashed a forehand winner down the line to force a decider and go the distance for the fifth time in six matches at the tournament. Although the top seeds traded breaks in the final set, there was little to separate the pair until Sabalenka had match points. However, Swiatek held her nerve when she served to stay in the contest, saving two match points en route to forcing the tiebreak. Swiatek also had a match point snatched away from her before she clinched victory on her second opportunity when Sabalenka's return went long and the Pole fell to the ground in relief and exhaustion. "I tried to make this match as long as possible... Hopefully next year it goes to me," Sabalenka said. "Three hours, that's a long one! Hopefully we recover fast for the next tournament."

Tennis: Top seed Iga Swiatek wins maiden Madrid Open title with gritty win over Aryna Sabalenka

Russian seventh seed Andrey Rublev beat American Taylor Fritz 6-4 6-3 on Friday to reach his first Madrid Open final where he will face Felix Auger-Aliassime.

The Canadian advanced after the Czech Republic's Jiri Lehecka pulled out injured midway through the first set of their semi-final.

Rublev, the highest seed left in the tournament at the semi-final stage, survived an early wobble to see off the 12th seed, and was all smiles after his straight-sets win, and will now be favourite to claim his second title of the year.

Fritz broke serve in the opening game, with the Russian showing early signs of frustration, but Rublev composed himself to break back immediately and ended the set winning two games to love to take the opener.

The second set went with serve until Rublev broke to lead 4-2 and it ended in a similar vein to the first, this time the Russian winning his final two service games to love, closing the gap in their head-to-head record, with four wins and five losses.

Rublev came into the tournament on a four-match losing streak, but has eased into the final, knocking out second seed Carlos Alcaraz on the way, and will face unseeded Canadian Auger-Aliassime for the title on Sunday.

The 23-year-old Canadian progressed past Lehecka in the other semi-final on Friday after the Czech 30th seed was forced to retire injured with a suspected back injury.

Lehecka asked for a medical timeout with the first set locked at 3-3 and attempted to continue the match after returning onto the court, until he went down in the following game. Visibly in pain, he was unable to carry on.

Lehecka joined an unfortunate list of players who were forced to pull out from the Madrid tournament, with world number four Daniil Medvedev ending his match against Lehecka early on Thursday as he withdrew with a groin issue after the first set.

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For Auger-Aliassime, who became the first Canadian to reach an ATP Masters 1000 final on clay, it was the third time in five matches that he has benefited from a withdrawal or walkover.

Jakub Mensik retired from their last 32 clash early into the second set before Jannik Sinner pulled out before their quarter-final due to a hip injury.

"It's crazy. I don't know if it's ever happened to a player before. It's a weird situation to be in," Auger-Aliassime said in his on-court interview.

"I couldn't believe what was happening when I saw his back failed him and blocked on him. I feel really bad for him... We can all imagine what it feels like to come out on a night like this hoping to win and go through.

"I have a lot of empathy for Jiri. For me, I can't do anything but try to prepare for Sunday."

Russian seventh seed Andrey Rublev beat American Taylor Fritz 6-4 6-3 on Friday to reach his first Madrid Open final where he will face Felix Auger-Aliassime. The Canadian advanced after the Czech Republic's Jiri Lehecka pulled out injured midway through the first set of their semi-final.

Russian seventh seed Andrey Rublev beat American Taylor Fritz 6-4 6-3 on Friday to reach his first Madrid Open final where he will face Felix Auger-Aliassime. The Canadian advanced after the Czech Republic's Jiri Lehecka pulled out injured midway through the first set of their semi-final. Rublev, the highest seed left in the tournament at the semi-final stage, survived an early wobble to see off the 12th seed, and was all smiles after his straight-sets win, and will now be favourite to claim his second title of the year. Fritz broke serve in the opening game, with the Russian showing early signs of frustration, but Rublev composed himself to break back immediately and ended the set winning two games to love to take the opener. The second set went with serve until Rublev broke to lead 4-2 and it ended in a similar vein to the first, this time the Russian winning his final two service games to love, closing the gap in their head-to-head record, with four wins and five losses. Rublev came into the tournament on a four-match losing streak, but has eased into the final, knocking out second seed Carlos Alcaraz on the way, and will face unseeded Canadian Auger-Aliassime for the title on Sunday. The 23-year-old Canadian progressed past Lehecka in the other semi-final on Friday after the Czech 30th seed was forced to retire injured with a suspected back injury. Lehecka asked for a medical timeout with the first set locked at 3-3 and attempted to continue the match after returning onto the court, until he went down in the following game. Visibly in pain, he was unable to carry on. Lehecka joined an unfortunate list of players who were forced to pull out from the Madrid tournament, with world number four Daniil Medvedev ending his match against Lehecka early on Thursday as he withdrew with a groin issue after the first set. ALSO READ: Tennis: Carlos Alcaraz withdraws from ATP Italian Open with arm injury For Auger-Aliassime, who became the first Canadian to reach an ATP Masters 1000 final on clay, it was the third time in five matches that he has benefited from a withdrawal or walkover. Jakub Mensik retired from their last 32 clash early into the second set before Jannik Sinner pulled out before their quarter-final due to a hip injury. "It's crazy. I don't know if it's ever happened to a player before. It's a weird situation to be in," Auger-Aliassime said in his on-court interview. "I couldn't believe what was happening when I saw his back failed him and blocked on him. I feel really bad for him... We can all imagine what it feels like to come out on a night like this hoping to win and go through. "I have a lot of empathy for Jiri. For me, I can't do anything but try to prepare for Sunday."

Tennis: Rublev beats Fritz to reach Madrid Open final, faces Auger-Aliassime for title

Rafael Nadal said he is doing his best to "keep dreaming" after he extended his stay at the Madrid Open by winning a three-hour tussle with Argentina's Pedro Cachin 6-1, 6-7 (5/7), 6-3 on Monday.

Contesting his home tournament one last time before retirement, the five-time champion gave the world number 91 his shirt after Cachin asked him for a memento from the match.

"Some moments good, some moments not good. I found a way to be through. I think in the third set with some mistakes I was still able to be a bit unpredictable," Nadal said of his roller-coaster third-round victory.

"Now I'm enjoying. Let's see how I wake up tomorrow. Playing at home means everything to me, just try my best to keep dreaming."

Nadal's reward is a Tuesday last-16 clash with the 30th-seeded Jiri Lehecka, who beat the Mallorcan in a practice session a week ago.

The 37-year-old has been dealing with physical issues, which have limited him to &nbsp;eight matches this season.

Asked if it would surprise him if he managed to beat Lehecka on Tuesday, Nadal said: "Yes, more so after today's match. I will face a player who is playing at a very high level, who has a very powerful serve."

While Nadal has already beaten a higher-ranked opponent this week -- number 11 Alex de Minaur -- he believes the quality of Lehecka's ball "is another step up".

Top-seeded Jannik Sinner beat world number 72 Pavel Kotov 6-2, 7-5.

Kazakhstan's Alexander Bublik beat American Ben Shelton 3-6, 7-6 (7/2), 6-4 &nbsp;to reach the fourth round, where he will face number three seed Daniil Medvedev.

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Ons Jabeur called out organisers of European tournaments for giving men preferential treatment at combined events and said "they need to respect women more."

Jabeur, the 2022 champion in Madrid, was speaking after dismissing ninth-seeded Jelena Ostapenko 6-0, 6-4 to set up a last-eight clash with Madison Keys.

"I feel like we have a long way to go, especially here in Madrid and in Rome, in Europe in general," she said.

Jabeur said women players were not given the same access to practice courts and were on television less.

"The way they treat women here and men, they're completely different," she added.

"Here in Spain, I would love to go to the hotel and open the TV and see a woman's tennis match. &nbsp;

"How can you inspire young girls without showing any matches?"

Top-seeded Iga Swiatek dropped the opening game before sweeping the next 12 to against home favourite Sara Sorribes Tormo 6-1, 6-0 and advance to a quarter-final meeting with Brazilian lefty Beatriz Haddad Maia.

Keys won an all-American battle, knocking out third-seeded Coco Gauff 7-6 (7/4), 4-6, 6-4 to reach the last-eight in Madrid for the first time.

The 29-year-old missed the start of the season with a shoulder injury, which sidelined her for four months.

Gauff, who was broken seven times and hit 13 doubles faults, lamented her serving.

"Not holding serve honestly is what cost me the match," said the reigning US Open champion. &nbsp;

"My serve is evolving and there's a lot of minor changes being made," she said. "When it's on, it's definitely a weapon and I guess it's just making it more consistent."

Also through to the quarter-finals is Mirra Andreeva, who celebrated her 17th birthday with a 7-6 (7/2), 6-4 win over Italian 12th seed Jasmine Paolini, a year on from her dream run to the Madrid fourth round on her WTA debut.

The Russian teenager fell to eventual champion Aryna Sabalenka at the Caja Magica 12 months ago &nbsp;but will get a rematch with the Belarusian world number two, who outlasted &nbsp;American Danielle Collins 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 in Monday's last match.

Rafael Nadal said he is doing his best to "keep dreaming" after he extended his stay at the Madrid Open by winning a three-hour tussle with Argentina's Pedro Cachin 6-1, 6-7 (5/7), 6-3 on Monday.

Rafael Nadal said he is doing his best to "keep dreaming" after he extended his stay at the Madrid Open by winning a three-hour tussle with Argentina's Pedro Cachin 6-1, 6-7 (5/7), 6-3 on Monday. Contesting his home tournament one last time before retirement, the five-time champion gave the world number 91 his shirt after Cachin asked him for a memento from the match. "Some moments good, some moments not good. I found a way to be through. I think in the third set with some mistakes I was still able to be a bit unpredictable," Nadal said of his roller-coaster third-round victory. "Now I'm enjoying. Let's see how I wake up tomorrow. Playing at home means everything to me, just try my best to keep dreaming." Nadal's reward is a Tuesday last-16 clash with the 30th-seeded Jiri Lehecka, who beat the Mallorcan in a practice session a week ago. The 37-year-old has been dealing with physical issues, which have limited him to eight matches this season. Asked if it would surprise him if he managed to beat Lehecka on Tuesday, Nadal said: "Yes, more so after today's match. I will face a player who is playing at a very high level, who has a very powerful serve." While Nadal has already beaten a higher-ranked opponent this week -- number 11 Alex de Minaur -- he believes the quality of Lehecka's ball "is another step up". Top-seeded Jannik Sinner beat world number 72 Pavel Kotov 6-2, 7-5. Kazakhstan's Alexander Bublik beat American Ben Shelton 3-6, 7-6 (7/2), 6-4 to reach the fourth round, where he will face number three seed Daniil Medvedev. ALSO READ | Football: Luis Rubiales denies ‘irregularities’ in Spanish football corruption probe Ons Jabeur called out organisers of European tournaments for giving men preferential treatment at combined events and said "they need to respect women more." Jabeur, the 2022 champion in Madrid, was speaking after dismissing ninth-seeded Jelena Ostapenko 6-0, 6-4 to set up a last-eight clash with Madison Keys. "I feel like we have a long way to go, especially here in Madrid and in Rome, in Europe in general," she said. Jabeur said women players were not given the same access to practice courts and were on television less. "The way they treat women here and men, they're completely different," she added. "Here in Spain, I would love to go to the hotel and open the TV and see a woman's tennis match. "How can you inspire young girls without showing any matches?" Top-seeded Iga Swiatek dropped the opening game before sweeping the next 12 to against home favourite Sara Sorribes Tormo 6-1, 6-0 and advance to a quarter-final meeting with Brazilian lefty Beatriz Haddad Maia. Keys won an all-American battle, knocking out third-seeded Coco Gauff 7-6 (7/4), 4-6, 6-4 to reach the last-eight in Madrid for the first time. The 29-year-old missed the start of the season with a shoulder injury, which sidelined her for four months. Gauff, who was broken seven times and hit 13 doubles faults, lamented her serving. "Not holding serve honestly is what cost me the match," said the reigning US Open champion. "My serve is evolving and there's a lot of minor changes being made," she said. "When it's on, it's definitely a weapon and I guess it's just making it more consistent." Also through to the quarter-finals is Mirra Andreeva, who celebrated her 17th birthday with a 7-6 (7/2), 6-4 win over Italian 12th seed Jasmine Paolini, a year on from her dream run to the Madrid fourth round on her WTA debut. The Russian teenager fell to eventual champion Aryna Sabalenka at the Caja Magica 12 months ago but will get a rematch with the Belarusian world number two, who outlasted American Danielle Collins 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 in Monday's last match.

Tennis: Rafael Nadal keeps clay dream alive at Madrid Open, battles past Pedro Cachin of Argentina

Carlos Alcaraz passed a "test of fire" to breeze into the Madrid Open last 16 with a straight sets victory over Thiago Seyboth Wild on Sunday (Apr 28), demonstrating he is over his injury worries before the French Open.

Carlos Alcaraz passed a "test of fire" to breeze into the Madrid Open last 16 with a straight sets victory over Thiago Seyboth Wild on Sunday (Apr 28), demonstrating he is over his injury worries before the French Open. The double defending champion came through 6-3, 6-3 and will face last year's runner-up Jan-Lennard Struff in the next round after another impressive showing before adoring fans on home soil. World number three Alcaraz, 20, missed a month prior to the Madrid Open with a forearm issue but returned to crush Alexander Shevchenko in the second round. Still wearing a protective sleeve on his right arm, he had far too much for Seyboth Wild, who had ousted 28th seed Lorenzo Musetti. "Maybe today I was a bit nervous about how it would be, Thiago hits the ball so hard, I didn't know how the forearm would hold up," said Alcaraz on court. "Today was the test of fire, no discomfort, feeling spectacular...from here, we'll be getting better." Indian Wells champion Alcaraz broke for a 4-3 lead in the first set when Seyboth Wild blinked first and sent a forehand into the net. The second seed sealed the set with another break when his Brazilian opponent double-faulted. Alcaraz stepped up a gear in the second set, winning 10 of the first 11 points and breaking in the second and fourth games as he raced into a 5-0 lead. Seyboth Wild battled to a hold and a break to salvage some pride but Alcaraz triumphed on serve when the Brazilian went long. "I was very comfortable on the court, moving, hitting the ball, as I always say finishing the game isn't easy, it's nerves," added Alcaraz. Germany's Struff defeated Frenchman Ugo Humbert 7-5, 6-4. Andrey Rublev came back from 5-0 down in a first set tie-break to beat home favourite Alejandro Davidovich Fokina 7-6 (12/10), 6-4 in a nervy affair. The world number eight saved five set points to stun his opponent, before a similarly hard-fought second set. Rublev broke for a 5-4 lead with a shot which the Spaniard chose to leave as he thought it was long, but Hawk-Eye showed it was in by a whisker. The Russian wrapped up his win with a forehand winner, his second win of the week after four straight defeats prior. Also read | Madrid Open: Rafael Nadal says he's 'far from best' after advancing to third round 'Very tough match' Women's world number four Elena Rybakina eased to a 6-1, 6-4 win over Egypt's Mayar Sherif to reach the last 16. The Kazakh, who has a tour-leading three titles this season after triumphing in Stuttgart last week, broke twice in the first set to move 5-0 ahead on the Spanish clay. Although Sherif battled harder in the second set, surviving four match points to hold for 5-4 down, Rybakina clinched the victory on serve at the Caja Magica. "Despite the score, it was a very tough match," said Rybakina, who also leads the tour with 28 wins. "It was a lot of deuces and we both fought a lot. I'm really happy with the performance today." Rybakina will face teenager Sara Bejlek in the next round after the Czech defeated American Ashlyn Krueger 6-3, 6-1. "I've never played against a player like this," said the 18-year-old. "I will try my best and we'll see how it will go tomorrow." Mirra Andreeva defeated Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova 7-5, 6-1 to return to the last 16 for the second year running. The 16-year-old Russian won 25 points to nine in the second set against the world number seven from the Czech Republic.

Madrid Open: Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz advances to last 16 after crushing Wild

Rafael Nadal avenged his defeat to Alex de Minaur from Barcelona with a 7-6 (8/6), 6-3 victory over the Australian on Saturday to extend his stay in Madrid on his final appearance at his home tournament but admitted he still "needs time" to return to his competitive peak.

Nadal's farewell tour has pitted him against De Minaur twice in as many weeks but this time the result was reversed as the 22-time Grand Slam champion advanced to a third-round meeting with Argentina's Pedro Cachin.

In front of a capacity crowd that included the King of Spain, Felipe VI, French football icon Zinedine Zidane, and Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior, Nadal dug deep to dismiss the world number 11, despite admitting ahead of the tournament he was still struggling with numerous physical issues.

It was an impressive performance from the 37-year-old but he immediately dismissed the idea it was anywhere near his vintage form.

"No, not yet. It needs time," said Nadal on court. "To play over two hours means a lot to me and the atmosphere here is just a joke.

"Just step by step and let's see how I recover."

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Five-time Madrid champion Nadal said he will not make a decision on playing at the French Open until after Rome which starts next week, and explained the key factor that would determine his participation.

"It's not a thing about losing or winning. It's about going on court there with the feeling that I can fight and I can be competitive," said the record 14-time French Open champion.

"So, if I am not able to go on court and dream, for me it doesn't make sense to go. I prefer to stay with all the amazing memories that I have."

Stefanos Tsitsipas suffered a surprise second round exit at the hands of world number 118 Thiago Monteiro.

Tsitsipas, who arrived in the Spanish capital with only one defeat in 11 matches on clay this term, lost 6-4, 6-4 to the Brazilian qualifier in just over 90 minutes.

The Greek world number seven had a first round bye and came into the tournament on the back of a third title triumph in Monte Carlo and a runner-up showing in Barcelona in the previous two weeks.

But the left-handed Monteiro looked more comfortable on court, benefitting from having already won three matches this week, through qualifying and the main draw.

"For sure this is one of the biggest wins of my career," said Monteiro, who is through to the third round at a Masters 1000 event for the first time.

Since the start of 2021, this is just the second time in 11 Masters clay tournaments where Tsitsipas has not made at least the quarter-finals, and the 25-year-old Greek was disappointed by his performance.

"I felt out of rhythm the entire match on my returns. I felt very disbalanced and just my body was going all over the place," said Tsitsipas.

Top seed Jannik Sinner had no such problem in reaching the third round.

He extended his unbeaten record against fellow Italians to 13-0 by defeating his Davis Cup teammate and good friend Lorenzo Sonego 6-0, 6-3 in just 69 minutes.

Through to the third round in Madrid for the second time in three appearances, the world number two will face Pavel Kotov for a place in the last 16.

Third seed Daniil Medvedev recovered from a set down to squeeze past tricky Italian Matteo Arnaldi 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 and set up a third round against American Sebastian Korda.

Rafael Nadal avenged his defeat to Alex de Minaur from Barcelona with a 7-6 (8/6), 6-3 victory over the Australian on Saturday to extend his stay in Madrid on his final appearance at his home tournament but admitted he still "needs time" to return to his competitive peak.

Rafael Nadal avenged his defeat to Alex de Minaur from Barcelona with a 7-6 (8/6), 6-3 victory over the Australian on Saturday to extend his stay in Madrid on his final appearance at his home tournament but admitted he still "needs time" to return to his competitive peak. Nadal's farewell tour has pitted him against De Minaur twice in as many weeks but this time the result was reversed as the 22-time Grand Slam champion advanced to a third-round meeting with Argentina's Pedro Cachin. In front of a capacity crowd that included the King of Spain, Felipe VI, French football icon Zinedine Zidane, and Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior, Nadal dug deep to dismiss the world number 11, despite admitting ahead of the tournament he was still struggling with numerous physical issues. It was an impressive performance from the 37-year-old but he immediately dismissed the idea it was anywhere near his vintage form. "No, not yet. It needs time," said Nadal on court. "To play over two hours means a lot to me and the atmosphere here is just a joke. "Just step by step and let's see how I recover." ALSO READ: 'Looked never so bright,' says IOC boss Thomas Bach on Olympics future Five-time Madrid champion Nadal said he will not make a decision on playing at the French Open until after Rome which starts next week, and explained the key factor that would determine his participation. "It's not a thing about losing or winning. It's about going on court there with the feeling that I can fight and I can be competitive," said the record 14-time French Open champion. "So, if I am not able to go on court and dream, for me it doesn't make sense to go. I prefer to stay with all the amazing memories that I have." Stefanos Tsitsipas suffered a surprise second round exit at the hands of world number 118 Thiago Monteiro. Tsitsipas, who arrived in the Spanish capital with only one defeat in 11 matches on clay this term, lost 6-4, 6-4 to the Brazilian qualifier in just over 90 minutes. The Greek world number seven had a first round bye and came into the tournament on the back of a third title triumph in Monte Carlo and a runner-up showing in Barcelona in the previous two weeks. But the left-handed Monteiro looked more comfortable on court, benefitting from having already won three matches this week, through qualifying and the main draw. "For sure this is one of the biggest wins of my career," said Monteiro, who is through to the third round at a Masters 1000 event for the first time. Since the start of 2021, this is just the second time in 11 Masters clay tournaments where Tsitsipas has not made at least the quarter-finals, and the 25-year-old Greek was disappointed by his performance. "I felt out of rhythm the entire match on my returns. I felt very disbalanced and just my body was going all over the place," said Tsitsipas. Top seed Jannik Sinner had no such problem in reaching the third round. He extended his unbeaten record against fellow Italians to 13-0 by defeating his Davis Cup teammate and good friend Lorenzo Sonego 6-0, 6-3 in just 69 minutes. Through to the third round in Madrid for the second time in three appearances, the world number two will face Pavel Kotov for a place in the last 16. Third seed Daniil Medvedev recovered from a set down to squeeze past tricky Italian Matteo Arnaldi 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 and set up a third round against American Sebastian Korda.

Madrid Open: Rafael Nadal says he's 'far from best' after advancing to third round

Defending Madrid Open champions Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka both triumphed in their opening clashes in the Spanish capital on Friday to reach the third round.

Alcaraz returned after a month out to begin his double defence with a convincing 6-2, 6-1 win over Alexander Shevchenko, while Sabalenka survived a tense three-set tussle against the in-form Magda Linette.

Men's world number three Alcaraz shone on home clay after a forearm problem led to his withdrawals from the Monte Carlo Masters and Barcelona Open.

"It's been quite a tough month for me, with the uncertainty over when I'd be back," said Alcaraz. "The priority today was to see how I felt, in a difficult match.

"The feelings were very good, and I think I played at a very good level despite coming without rhythm... I am very happy and it's a pleasure to play here in Madrid again."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-olympics-2024-france-to-deploy-6000-police-officers-for-safe-arrival-of-olympic-torch-715432">Paris Olympics 2024: France to deploy 6,000 police officers for safe arrival of Olympic torch</a>

Wearing a protective sleeve on his right arm, two-time Grand Slam winner Alcaraz quickly dispelled any doubts after his time out by flying out of the blocks in the first set with a break.

The 20-year-old Spaniard was as exciting as ever, frequently on the attack, and secured a second break in the fifth game for a 4-1 lead.

Indian Wells winner Alcaraz hit the net with a drop shot to let the Kazakhstani back in but broke again himself for a 5-2 advantage which he served out.

Alcaraz pulled off two second set breaks for a 3-0 lead but again allowed his 23-year-old opponent to cut the deficit before striking back with a third break, which he consolidated for 5-1.

The 2022 and 2023 Madrid winner and second seed wrapped up his victory in little over an hour with another break when Shevchenko sent a forehand long.

Alcaraz will face Thiago Seyboth Wild in the third round after the Brazilian surprised Lorenzo Musetti 6-4, 6-4.

Andrey Rublev ended a four-match losing streak with a straightforward 6-1, 6-4 win over Facundo Bagnis.

"It feels really great after a while to start with a win and I'm happy with my performance," said Rublev, who lost his temper and obliterated his racquet after a first-round exit in Barcelona.

German fourth seed Alexander Zverev, the champion in 2018 and 2021, comfortably made the third round with a 6-3, 6-2 win over Borna Coric.

Defending Madrid Open champions Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka both triumphed in their opening clashes in the Spanish capital on Friday to reach the third round.

Defending Madrid Open champions Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka both triumphed in their opening clashes in the Spanish capital on Friday to reach the third round. Alcaraz returned after a month out to begin his double defence with a convincing 6-2, 6-1 win over Alexander Shevchenko, while Sabalenka survived a tense three-set tussle against the in-form Magda Linette. Men's world number three Alcaraz shone on home clay after a forearm problem led to his withdrawals from the Monte Carlo Masters and Barcelona Open. "It's been quite a tough month for me, with the uncertainty over when I'd be back," said Alcaraz. "The priority today was to see how I felt, in a difficult match. "The feelings were very good, and I think I played at a very good level despite coming without rhythm... I am very happy and it's a pleasure to play here in Madrid again." ALSO READ: Paris Olympics 2024: France to deploy 6,000 police officers for safe arrival of Olympic torch Wearing a protective sleeve on his right arm, two-time Grand Slam winner Alcaraz quickly dispelled any doubts after his time out by flying out of the blocks in the first set with a break. The 20-year-old Spaniard was as exciting as ever, frequently on the attack, and secured a second break in the fifth game for a 4-1 lead. Indian Wells winner Alcaraz hit the net with a drop shot to let the Kazakhstani back in but broke again himself for a 5-2 advantage which he served out. Alcaraz pulled off two second set breaks for a 3-0 lead but again allowed his 23-year-old opponent to cut the deficit before striking back with a third break, which he consolidated for 5-1. The 2022 and 2023 Madrid winner and second seed wrapped up his victory in little over an hour with another break when Shevchenko sent a forehand long. Alcaraz will face Thiago Seyboth Wild in the third round after the Brazilian surprised Lorenzo Musetti 6-4, 6-4. Andrey Rublev ended a four-match losing streak with a straightforward 6-1, 6-4 win over Facundo Bagnis. "It feels really great after a while to start with a win and I'm happy with my performance," said Rublev, who lost his temper and obliterated his racquet after a first-round exit in Barcelona. German fourth seed Alexander Zverev, the champion in 2018 and 2021, comfortably made the third round with a 6-3, 6-2 win over Borna Coric.

Madrid Open 2024: Defending champions Carlos Alcaraz, Aryna Sabalenka cruise to third round

World number one Iga Swiatek launched her bid for a maiden Madrid Open title with an impressive win over China's Wang Xiyu 6-1 6-4 to reach the third round. As a three-time champion at Roland Garros and two-time winner in Rome and Stuttgart, Madrid is the only major title on the European clay circuit 22-year.old

Swiatek is yet to lift, having finished runner-up to Aryna Sabalenka in last year's final. Second seed Coco Gauff also advanced with ease into the last 32, demolishing Dutch world number 47 Aranxta Rus 6-0 6-0 in just 51 minutes with a dominating display.

Third round qualification proved a tougher task for 2022 Madrid champion and eighth seed Ons Jabeur, however, who earned a hard-fought 6-4 5-7 6-3 win over Slovakia's Anna Karolina Schmiedlova over two and a half hours, having failed to convert a match point serving with a 5-4 lead in the second set.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wada-launches-independent-review-of-its-decision-to-allow-chinese-swimmers-in-tokyo-olympics-715005">WADA launches independent review of its decision to allow Chinese swimmers in Tokyo Olympics</a>

NADAL ALSO SAILED THROUGH

Rafael&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;thrashed 16-year-old wild card Darwin Blanch 6-1 6-0 in the first round of the Madrid Open on Thursday and will face Australian 10th seed Alex de Minaur next. The 22-time Grand Slam champion broke the American at the first opportunity in the second game before grabbing the first set in just 28 minutes.

The American teen committed 27 unforced errors in what was his second ATP tour match after he had made his debut last month in Miami.

"I think today I played against someone with a great future in front of him,"&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;said. "(But) Today he was making mistakes. "I tried to be there and be solid all the time without taking a lot of risks. I'm happy to be through and I wish him all the very best.

"For me after how things developed the last few years, every time I have a chance to be on court on this amazing stadium with unconditional support means a lot to me. Trying to enjoy every moment."

World number one Iga Swiatek launched her bid for a maiden Madrid Open title with an impressive win over China's Wang Xiyu 6-1 6-4 to reach the third round. As a three-time champion at Roland Garros and two-time winner in Rome and Stuttgart, Madrid is the only major title on the European clay circuit 22-year.

World number one Iga Swiatek launched her bid for a maiden Madrid Open title with an impressive win over China's Wang Xiyu 6-1 6-4 to reach the third round. As a three-time champion at Roland Garros and two-time winner in Rome and Stuttgart, Madrid is the only major title on the European clay circuit 22-year.old Swiatek is yet to lift, having finished runner-up to Aryna Sabalenka in last year's final. Second seed Coco Gauff also advanced with ease into the last 32, demolishing Dutch world number 47 Aranxta Rus 6-0 6-0 in just 51 minutes with a dominating display. Third round qualification proved a tougher task for 2022 Madrid champion and eighth seed Ons Jabeur, however, who earned a hard-fought 6-4 5-7 6-3 win over Slovakia's Anna Karolina Schmiedlova over two and a half hours, having failed to convert a match point serving with a 5-4 lead in the second set. Also read: WADA launches independent review of its decision to allow Chinese swimmers in Tokyo Olympics NADAL ALSO SAILED THROUGH Rafael Nadal thrashed 16-year-old wild card Darwin Blanch 6-1 6-0 in the first round of the Madrid Open on Thursday and will face Australian 10th seed Alex de Minaur next. The 22-time Grand Slam champion broke the American at the first opportunity in the second game before grabbing the first set in just 28 minutes. The American teen committed 27 unforced errors in what was his second ATP tour match after he had made his debut last month in Miami. "I think today I played against someone with a great future in front of him," Nadal said. "(But) Today he was making mistakes. "I tried to be there and be solid all the time without taking a lot of risks. I'm happy to be through and I wish him all the very best. "For me after how things developed the last few years, every time I have a chance to be on court on this amazing stadium with unconditional support means a lot to me. Trying to enjoy every moment."

Madrid Open: Iga Swiatek, Ons Jabeur and Coco Gauff start with easy wins

Rafael Nadal thrashed 16-year-old wild card Darwin Blanch 6-1 6-0 in the first round of the Madrid Open on Thursday and will face Australian 10th seed Alex de Minaur next. The 22-time Grand Slam champion broke the American at the first opportunity in the second game before grabbing the first set in just 28 minutes.

Nadal, who last claimed the title on Madrid's clay in 2017, broke again to take the lead in the second set and kept up the pace, giving a tennis masterclass to Blanch who is still seeking his first tour win. The age gap between the pair was 21 years and 117 days, the biggest between two opponents at ATP Masters 1000 level.

The American teen committed 27 unforced errors in what was his second ATP tour match after he had made his debut last month in Miami.

"I think today I played against someone with a great future in front of him," Nadal said. "(But) Today he was making mistakes. "I tried to be there and be solid all the time without taking a lot of risks. I'm happy to be through and I wish him all the very best.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wada-launches-independent-review-of-its-decision-to-allow-chinese-swimmers-in-tokyo-olympics-715005">WADA launches independent review of its decision to allow Chinese swimmers in Tokyo Olympics</a>

"For me after how things developed the last few years, every time I have a chance to be on court on this amazing stadium with unconditional support means a lot to me. Trying to enjoy every moment."

The win was Nadal's record-extending 57th victory in Madrid, a tournament that he has won five times. He will play world number 11 De Minaur in the second round on Saturday. The Australian defeated Nadal 7-5 6-1 in the second round of the Barcelona Open last week when the Spaniard was playing his first tournament since January.

Rafael Nadal thrashed 16-year-old wild card Darwin Blanch 6-1 6-0 in the first round of the Madrid Open on Thursday and will face Australian 10th seed Alex de Minaur next.

Rafael Nadal thrashed 16-year-old wild card Darwin Blanch 6-1 6-0 in the first round of the Madrid Open on Thursday and will face Australian 10th seed Alex de Minaur next. The 22-time Grand Slam champion broke the American at the first opportunity in the second game before grabbing the first set in just 28 minutes. Nadal, who last claimed the title on Madrid's clay in 2017, broke again to take the lead in the second set and kept up the pace, giving a tennis masterclass to Blanch who is still seeking his first tour win. The age gap between the pair was 21 years and 117 days, the biggest between two opponents at ATP Masters 1000 level. The American teen committed 27 unforced errors in what was his second ATP tour match after he had made his debut last month in Miami. "I think today I played against someone with a great future in front of him," Nadal said. "(But) Today he was making mistakes. "I tried to be there and be solid all the time without taking a lot of risks. I'm happy to be through and I wish him all the very best. Also read: WADA launches independent review of its decision to allow Chinese swimmers in Tokyo Olympics "For me after how things developed the last few years, every time I have a chance to be on court on this amazing stadium with unconditional support means a lot to me. Trying to enjoy every moment." The win was Nadal's record-extending 57th victory in Madrid, a tournament that he has won five times. He will play world number 11 De Minaur in the second round on Saturday. The Australian defeated Nadal 7-5 6-1 in the second round of the Barcelona Open last week when the Spaniard was playing his first tournament since January.

Madrid Open: Former world number one Rafael Nadal outclasses Darwin Blanch in first round

Liudmila Samsonova brought former world number one Naomi Osaka's return to clay to a halt in the second round of the Madrid Open on Thursday with a 6-2, 4-6, 7-5 victory.

Elsewhere, American Coco Gauff sailed through to the third round with a 6-0, 6-0 thumping of&nbsp;Arantxa Rus.

Four-time Grand Slam champion Osaka twice battled back from a break down in the second set to force a decisive third but world number 17 Samsonova eventually ground out the victory.

Japanese star Osaka returned to tennis in January after a long break and earned her first victory on clay for two years on Wednesday against Greet Minnen.

However Russian 15th seed Samsonova, whom Osaka beat at Indian Wells in March, was able to end a four-match losing streak with her victory in two hours 22 minutes in the Spanish capital.

Hard-court expert Osaka, 26, is not overly fond of the red dirt and has not won back-to-back matches on the surface since 2019.

She lost last week at the Rouen Open in France against Martina Trevisan in her first match back on clay but improved this week.

"I felt -- I don't want to say happy -- I felt good that I was able to fight back," said Osaka.

"I think it's a big difference from my match in France, so I was happy that I learned from that match, but obviously really sad that I lost."

Samsonova raced into a 4-0 first set lead, breaking in the first and third games as Osaka struggled.

"Honestly, it's not the sliding part for me, it's the touch," said Osaka.

"I feel like I'm getting the balls, I'm just not really placing them well."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-dont-spread-nonsense-ambati-rayudu-goes-ballistic-over-fake-attributed-quotes-on-ruturaj-gaikwad-714818">IPL 2024: 'Don’t spread nonsense', Ambati Rayudu goes ballistic over fake attributed quotes on Ruturaj Gaikwad</a>

After recovering an early break Osaka was broken again in the fifth game and Samsonova took a 4-2 lead. However Osaka battled back and won the next four games to take the set.

In the decider the players exchanged breaks before Osaka eventually blinked in the 11th game, with Samsonova wrapping up victory on serve. She will face Madison Keys in the next round.

Gauff, 20, romped to a 'double bagel' triumph in only 51 minutes against her 33-year-old Dutch opponent Rus.

The American saved four break points in the match to become the third player ever to win 6-0, 6-0 in the Madrid Open main draw.

World number three Gauff will face Ukraine's Dayana Yastremska in the third round.

Later Thursday world number one and last year's runner-up in Madrid, Iga Swiatek, faces China's Wang Xiyu.

Liudmila Samsonova brought former world number one Naomi Osaka's return to clay to a halt in the second round of the Madrid Open on Thursday with a 6-2, 4-6, 7-5 victory.

Liudmila Samsonova brought former world number one Naomi Osaka's return to clay to a halt in the second round of the Madrid Open on Thursday with a 6-2, 4-6, 7-5 victory. Elsewhere, American Coco Gauff sailed through to the third round with a 6-0, 6-0 thumping of Arantxa Rus. Four-time Grand Slam champion Osaka twice battled back from a break down in the second set to force a decisive third but world number 17 Samsonova eventually ground out the victory. Japanese star Osaka returned to tennis in January after a long break and earned her first victory on clay for two years on Wednesday against Greet Minnen. However Russian 15th seed Samsonova, whom Osaka beat at Indian Wells in March, was able to end a four-match losing streak with her victory in two hours 22 minutes in the Spanish capital. Hard-court expert Osaka, 26, is not overly fond of the red dirt and has not won back-to-back matches on the surface since 2019. She lost last week at the Rouen Open in France against Martina Trevisan in her first match back on clay but improved this week. "I felt -- I don't want to say happy -- I felt good that I was able to fight back," said Osaka. "I think it's a big difference from my match in France, so I was happy that I learned from that match, but obviously really sad that I lost." Samsonova raced into a 4-0 first set lead, breaking in the first and third games as Osaka struggled. "Honestly, it's not the sliding part for me, it's the touch," said Osaka. "I feel like I'm getting the balls, I'm just not really placing them well." ALSO READ | IPL 2024: 'Don’t spread nonsense', Ambati Rayudu goes ballistic over fake attributed quotes on Ruturaj Gaikwad After recovering an early break Osaka was broken again in the fifth game and Samsonova took a 4-2 lead. However Osaka battled back and won the next four games to take the set. In the decider the players exchanged breaks before Osaka eventually blinked in the 11th game, with Samsonova wrapping up victory on serve. She will face Madison Keys in the next round. Gauff, 20, romped to a 'double bagel' triumph in only 51 minutes against her 33-year-old Dutch opponent Rus. The American saved four break points in the match to become the third player ever to win 6-0, 6-0 in the Madrid Open main draw. World number three Gauff will face Ukraine's Dayana Yastremska in the third round. Later Thursday world number one and last year's runner-up in Madrid, Iga Swiatek, faces China's Wang Xiyu.

Tennis: Naomi Osaka stumbles against Samsonova, Gauff sails through in Madrid Open

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