Australian Open champion Rafa Nadal will make his return from a month-long absence due to injury at this week`s ATP Masters 1000 Madrid Open that begins later this week, the Spaniard announced on Tuesday. 
The 35-year-old, who last played in the final of Indian Wells against Taylor Fritz on March 20, suffered a stress fracture in his rib during the tournament, forcing him to miss claycourt events in Monte Carlo and Barcelona. "Despite arriving just before the tournament and preparation being difficult, I really want to play at home since the opportunities are few," Nadal wrote on Twitter. "So I`m going to try to do it in the best way I can. See you in Madrid."

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A pesar de llegar justo de preparación y ser difícil, tengo muchas ganas de jugar y jugar en casa ya que las oportunidades son pocas. 
A tratar de hacerlo de la mejor manera posible 💪🏻 
 
Nos vemos en Madrid 😉 <a href="https://t.co/tiD5m6lWle">pic.twitter.com/tiD5m6lWle</a>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-defends-ban-on-russian-players-confirms-covid-vaccination-not-mandatory-for-participation-474035">Wimbledon defends ban on Russian players, confirms Covid vaccination not mandatory for participation</a>

The former world number`s one return to action comes little under a month before the French Open, where he will be bidding for a record-extending 14th title. The claycourt major gets underway on May 22.

Australian Open champion Rafa Nadal will make his return from a month-long absence due to injury at this week`s ATP Masters 1000 Madrid Open that begins later this week, the Spaniard announced on Tuesday.

Australian Open champion Rafa Nadal will make his return from a month-long absence due to injury at this week`s ATP Masters 1000 Madrid Open that begins later this week, the Spaniard announced on Tuesday. The 35-year-old, who last played in the final of Indian Wells against Taylor Fritz on March 20, suffered a stress fracture in his rib during the tournament, forcing him to miss claycourt events in Monte Carlo and Barcelona. "Despite arriving just before the tournament and preparation being difficult, I really want to play at home since the opportunities are few," Nadal wrote on Twitter. "So I`m going to try to do it in the best way I can. See you in Madrid." A pesar de llegar justo de preparación y ser difícil, tengo muchas ganas de jugar y jugar en casa ya que las oportunidades son pocas. A tratar de hacerlo de la mejor manera posible 💪🏻 Nos vemos en Madrid 😉 pic.twitter.com/tiD5m6lWle — Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) April 26, 2022 × ALSO READ | Wimbledon defends ban on Russian players, confirms Covid vaccination not mandatory for participation The former world number`s one return to action comes little under a month before the French Open, where he will be bidding for a record-extending 14th title. The claycourt major gets underway on May 22.

World No. 4 Rafael Nadal to make injury return at Madrid Open

Alexander Zverev avenged his defeat by Dominic Thiem in last year's U.S. Open final in clinical fashion on Saturday, beating the Austrian 6-3 6-4 to reach the final of the Madrid Open.

Zverev, who beat top seed and tournament favourite Rafa Nadal in straight sets in the quarter-finals on Friday, will meet Matteo Berrettini in Sunday's final after the Italian beat Norway's Casper Ruud 6-4 6-4 in the second semi-final.

Germany's Zverev, who was champion in Madrid in 2018, made a strong start, breaking Thiem early in each set in what turned out to be a routine victory, despite a swirling wind at Caja Magica.

"I'm quite happy to win this one," fifth seed Zverev said in a courtside interview. "We've had some fantastic matches. I think we played the biggest matches in the world.

"We've played Masters finals, Grand Slam finals, we're still developing, we're going to go on for a few more years and hopefully we'll play a few more amazing matches.

"I'm definitely looking forward to playing in another big (Grand Slam) final and I hope I can turn it my way this time."

Thiem held an 8-2 head-to-head advantage over Zverev coming into the semi-final, winning their last four meetings, including his come-from-behind victory at last year's U.S. Open where he claimed his first major title.

The third seed's only defeat to Zverev on clay was in the final in Madrid two years ago, but he never really settled into his stride on Saturday, struggling with his first serve and making 20 unforced errors, including three double faults.

Zverev, on the other hand, sent down six aces and 25 winners as he cruised to victory.

"It was a little bit of a weirder match than against Rafa," the German added. "I feel like the conditions were difficult. It was clearly windy today. Sometimes (that's) not easy but I'm definitely happy with the win."

Eighth seed Berrettini, who has dropped only one set in the tournament, will be aiming to win his maiden ATP Masters 1000 title against Zverev on Sunday.

"I saw him (Zverev), he's playing really good," said Berrettini, who sent down five aces against Ruud.

"He beat Rafa (Nadal) and Dominic (Thiem), probably the best players on clay. It's going to be a challenging match."

Alexander Zverev avenged his defeat by Dominic Thiem in last year's U.S. Open final in clinical fashion on Saturday, beating the Austrian 6-3 6-4 to reach the final of the Madrid Open.

Alexander Zverev avenged his defeat by Dominic Thiem in last year's U.S. Open final in clinical fashion on Saturday, beating the Austrian 6-3 6-4 to reach the final of the Madrid Open. Zverev, who beat top seed and tournament favourite Rafa Nadal in straight sets in the quarter-finals on Friday, will meet Matteo Berrettini in Sunday's final after the Italian beat Norway's Casper Ruud 6-4 6-4 in the second semi-final. Germany's Zverev, who was champion in Madrid in 2018, made a strong start, breaking Thiem early in each set in what turned out to be a routine victory, despite a swirling wind at Caja Magica. "I'm quite happy to win this one," fifth seed Zverev said in a courtside interview. "We've had some fantastic matches. I think we played the biggest matches in the world. "We've played Masters finals, Grand Slam finals, we're still developing, we're going to go on for a few more years and hopefully we'll play a few more amazing matches. "I'm definitely looking forward to playing in another big (Grand Slam) final and I hope I can turn it my way this time." Thiem held an 8-2 head-to-head advantage over Zverev coming into the semi-final, winning their last four meetings, including his come-from-behind victory at last year's U.S. Open where he claimed his first major title. The third seed's only defeat to Zverev on clay was in the final in Madrid two years ago, but he never really settled into his stride on Saturday, struggling with his first serve and making 20 unforced errors, including three double faults. Zverev, on the other hand, sent down six aces and 25 winners as he cruised to victory. "It was a little bit of a weirder match than against Rafa," the German added. "I feel like the conditions were difficult. It was clearly windy today. Sometimes (that's) not easy but I'm definitely happy with the win." Eighth seed Berrettini, who has dropped only one set in the tournament, will be aiming to win his maiden ATP Masters 1000 title against Zverev on Sunday. "I saw him (Zverev), he's playing really good," said Berrettini, who sent down five aces against Ruud. "He beat Rafa (Nadal) and Dominic (Thiem), probably the best players on clay. It's going to be a challenging match."

Alex Zverev puts on Madrid masterclass to book Berrettini clash in final

Rafa Nadal was knocked out of the Madrid Open quarter-finals stage 6-4 6-4 by German Alex Zverev on Friday.

Nadal, a five-time winner in the Spanish capital, was the favourite and top seed having lifted the Barcelona Open trophy last month but played below par on a sweltering spring day.

Zverev struggled in the opening exchanges, finding himself 4-2 down before breaking Nadal twice to turn the match on its head and take the first set.

The fifth-seeded German then powered ahead in the second, breaking Nadal's serve again and holding out to seal a career-first win on clay against the Spaniard.

He will take on third seed Dominic Thiem in Saturday's semi-final after the Austrian overcame John Isner 3-6 6-3 6-4.

Later on Friday, Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan plays fellow qualifier, Casper Ruud, from Norway while eighth seed Matteo Berrettini of Italy faces Chilean 16th seed, Cristian Garin.

Rafa Nadal was knocked out of the Madrid Open quarter-finals stage 6-4 6-4 by German Alex Zverev on Friday. Nadal, a five-time winner in the Spanish capital, was the favourite and top seed having lifted the Barcelona Open trophy last month but played below par on a sweltering spring day.

Rafa Nadal was knocked out of the Madrid Open quarter-finals stage 6-4 6-4 by German Alex Zverev on Friday. Nadal, a five-time winner in the Spanish capital, was the favourite and top seed having lifted the Barcelona Open trophy last month but played below par on a sweltering spring day. Zverev struggled in the opening exchanges, finding himself 4-2 down before breaking Nadal twice to turn the match on its head and take the first set. The fifth-seeded German then powered ahead in the second, breaking Nadal's serve again and holding out to seal a career-first win on clay against the Spaniard. He will take on third seed Dominic Thiem in Saturday's semi-final after the Austrian overcame John Isner 3-6 6-3 6-4. Later on Friday, Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan plays fellow qualifier, Casper Ruud, from Norway while eighth seed Matteo Berrettini of Italy faces Chilean 16th seed, Cristian Garin.

Rafa Nadal defeated by Zverev in Madrid Open quarters

Roger Federer is set to play his first match on clay in almost two years at next month's Madrid Open, after he was confirmed for the event Tuesday.&nbsp;

The 39-year-old was listed among the players to have registered for the May 2-9 tournament in the Spanish capital, with Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal also in the 56-man field.

The event runs alongside the women's competition, which begins on April 29.

Federer recently returned to action at the Qatar Open in Doha after 13 months out following two knee surgeries last year. He was beaten in his second match and promptly withdrew from Dubai.&nbsp;

The Swiss has won just one of his 20 majors on clay, taking the Roland Garros title in 2009.

He has appeared at just one of the past five French Opens, reaching the semi-finals two years ago.

Federer hasn't won a tour clay title since Istanbul in 2015; his most recent Masters triumph on the surface was Madrid in 2012.

Roger Federer is set to play his first match on clay in almost two years at next month's Madrid Open, after he was confirmed for the event Tuesday. The 39-year-old was listed among the players to have registered for the May 2-9 tournament in the Spanish capital, with Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal also in the 56-man field.

Roger Federer is set to play his first match on clay in almost two years at next month's Madrid Open, after he was confirmed for the event Tuesday. The 39-year-old was listed among the players to have registered for the May 2-9 tournament in the Spanish capital, with Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal also in the 56-man field. The event runs alongside the women's competition, which begins on April 29. Federer recently returned to action at the Qatar Open in Doha after 13 months out following two knee surgeries last year. He was beaten in his second match and promptly withdrew from Dubai. The Swiss has won just one of his 20 majors on clay, taking the Roland Garros title in 2009. He has appeared at just one of the past five French Opens, reaching the semi-finals two years ago. Federer hasn't won a tour clay title since Istanbul in 2015; his most recent Masters triumph on the surface was Madrid in 2012.

Federer poised for clay return in Madrid

The Madrid Open tennis tournament has been cancelled due to fresh outbreaks of coronavirus in the region, organisers confirmed on Tuesday, raising doubts around the upcoming US and French Opens.

Originally scheduled for May, the postponed Madrid tournament was scheduled to take place on the clay courts at Caja Magica between September 12 and 20.

"We share in the disappointment that the Mutua Madrid Open will not be able to take place this year," said Andrea Gaudenzi, the ATP Chairman, in a statement.

The tournament was expected to boast a stellar field, including world number two and five-time champion Rafael Nadal, and would have been a key warm-up event two weeks before the start of the French Open.

The Italian Open is due to go ahead in Rome in the week leading up to the grand slam at Roland Garros but it remains to be seen how other competitions react.

Before then, hard-court events are planned later this month in Lexington and New York ahead of the US Open at Flushing Meadows, which is due to start on August 31.

After a rise in coronavirus cases in Spain, the regional government of Madrid recommended on Saturday that the Madrid Open be called off, with its cancellation duly confirmed on Tuesday.

Recent COVID-19 outbreaks in Madrid had caused concern around maintaining the safety of players, staff and fans, despite daily cases of the virus falling dramatically in Spain through most of June and July.

There have been over 1,500 positive cases a day in the country over the past week and, in total, Spain has recorded more than 28,000 deaths, according to official figures.

Tennis has been slower than other sports to restart, with the amount of travel required from players and their support teams considered particularly problematic.

The Palermo Ladies Open became the first official Tour event to take place since early March when the main draw began in Sicily on Monday.

However one unnamed player was forced to withdraw after testing positive for coronavirus, organisers confirmed on Saturday.

The Madrid Open tennis tournament has been cancelled due to fresh outbreaks of coronavirus in the region, organisers confirmed on Tuesday, raising doubts around the upcoming US and French Opens.

The Madrid Open tennis tournament has been cancelled due to fresh outbreaks of coronavirus in the region, organisers confirmed on Tuesday, raising doubts around the upcoming US and French Opens. Originally scheduled for May, the postponed Madrid tournament was scheduled to take place on the clay courts at Caja Magica between September 12 and 20. "We share in the disappointment that the Mutua Madrid Open will not be able to take place this year," said Andrea Gaudenzi, the ATP Chairman, in a statement. The tournament was expected to boast a stellar field, including world number two and five-time champion Rafael Nadal, and would have been a key warm-up event two weeks before the start of the French Open. The Italian Open is due to go ahead in Rome in the week leading up to the grand slam at Roland Garros but it remains to be seen how other competitions react. Before then, hard-court events are planned later this month in Lexington and New York ahead of the US Open at Flushing Meadows, which is due to start on August 31. After a rise in coronavirus cases in Spain, the regional government of Madrid recommended on Saturday that the Madrid Open be called off, with its cancellation duly confirmed on Tuesday. Recent COVID-19 outbreaks in Madrid had caused concern around maintaining the safety of players, staff and fans, despite daily cases of the virus falling dramatically in Spain through most of June and July. There have been over 1,500 positive cases a day in the country over the past week and, in total, Spain has recorded more than 28,000 deaths, according to official figures. Tennis has been slower than other sports to restart, with the amount of travel required from players and their support teams considered particularly problematic. The Palermo Ladies Open became the first official Tour event to take place since early March when the main draw began in Sicily on Monday. However one unnamed player was forced to withdraw after testing positive for coronavirus, organisers confirmed on Saturday.

Madrid Masters tennis cancelled due to COVID

Novak Djokovic joined Rafael Nadal as a 33-time Masters champion on Sunday when he swept to a 6-3, 6-4 win over Stefanos Tsitsipas to claim a third Madrid Open title.

The world number one dominated a clearly exhausted opponent less than 24 hours after the 20-year-old Greek had stunned five-time champion Nadal in a semi-final which ended around midnight on Saturday.

Djokovic and Nadal will now attempt to claim a 34th Masters title in Rome this week in a key indicator ahead of Roland Garros which gets under way on May 26.

Djokovic never let Tsitsipas get into gear in a final which lasted just over 90 minutes.&nbsp;

"This is a very important win for me, especially for my confidence," 15-time Grand Slam winner Djokovic said.

"I was not playing my best after winning the Australia Open but I started this week well, not dropping a set all through. I've played some of my best tennis here."

Tsitsipas, who beat Djokovic in their previous meeting last summer in Canada, was broken once in each set, enough of a margin for the top seed to take the trophy, his second of the season after the Australian Open.

The Serb still needed four match points to get the job done with Tsitsipas finally beaten when Djokovic sent a winning volley into the corner.

Tsitsipas hailed Djokovic who will hold all four Slam titles if he goes on to claim a second French Open next month.

"It's inspiring what you do, simply amazing. You deserve it," the Greek told the Serb.&nbsp;

"You had a great week. It was also a great one for me, with good memories and good crowd support."

Djokovic said he was likely facing an opponent lacking a few physical reserves after a long semi-final struggle with Nadal.

"I needed to step up, Stefanos is very talented. But he finished around midnight -- he had a very late night and a very long match.

"This was a big week for me and I'm looking forward to continuing like this in Rome.&nbsp;

"The Masters 1000s are the biggest ATP events, right alongside the Grand Slams. This is about as important and good as it gets."

Tsitsipas was playing his second Masters 1000 final after losing to Nadal in Toronto last August.

Novak Djokovic joined Rafael Nadal as a 33-time Masters champion on Sunday when he swept to a 6-3, 6-4 win over Stefanos Tsitsipas to claim a third Madrid Open title.

Novak Djokovic joined Rafael Nadal as a 33-time Masters champion on Sunday when he swept to a 6-3, 6-4 win over Stefanos Tsitsipas to claim a third Madrid Open title. The world number one dominated a clearly exhausted opponent less than 24 hours after the 20-year-old Greek had stunned five-time champion Nadal in a semi-final which ended around midnight on Saturday. Djokovic and Nadal will now attempt to claim a 34th Masters title in Rome this week in a key indicator ahead of Roland Garros which gets under way on May 26. Djokovic never let Tsitsipas get into gear in a final which lasted just over 90 minutes. "This is a very important win for me, especially for my confidence," 15-time Grand Slam winner Djokovic said. "I was not playing my best after winning the Australia Open but I started this week well, not dropping a set all through. I've played some of my best tennis here." Tsitsipas, who beat Djokovic in their previous meeting last summer in Canada, was broken once in each set, enough of a margin for the top seed to take the trophy, his second of the season after the Australian Open. The Serb still needed four match points to get the job done with Tsitsipas finally beaten when Djokovic sent a winning volley into the corner. Tsitsipas hailed Djokovic who will hold all four Slam titles if he goes on to claim a second French Open next month. "It's inspiring what you do, simply amazing. You deserve it," the Greek told the Serb. "You had a great week. It was also a great one for me, with good memories and good crowd support." Djokovic said he was likely facing an opponent lacking a few physical reserves after a long semi-final struggle with Nadal. "I needed to step up, Stefanos is very talented. But he finished around midnight -- he had a very late night and a very long match. "This was a big week for me and I'm looking forward to continuing like this in Rome. "The Masters 1000s are the biggest ATP events, right alongside the Grand Slams. This is about as important and good as it gets." Tsitsipas was playing his second Masters 1000 final after losing to Nadal in Toronto last August.

Novak Djokovic wins third Madrid title and 33rd Masters

Kiki Bertens moved up to the fourth spot in WTA ranking after defeating the former world number one Simona Halep in the final of Madrid Open on Saturday.&nbsp;

Bertens needed 1 hour and 28 minutes <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kiki-bertens-earns-flawless-madrid-triumph-with-win-over-halep-217998">to beat Halep 6-4, 6-4</a> in order to win the trophy in the Spanish capital.&nbsp;

She also became the first woman to win the championship with dropping a set.&nbsp;

After winning, Bertens said, "It feels unbelievable. I am just really happy right now that I was able to win the match today after last year's final. I think that helped me a lot to be on the court a little bit more confident and I felt good today."&nbsp;

That was the second time Bertens beat Halep in a WTA final following her at the Western &amp; Southern Open in the USA in August 2018.&nbsp;

On achieving career's best ranking, Bertens said, "It feels really unbelievable. My best ranking after the winning this tournament. The biggest title of my career. The highest ranking ever a Dutch woman has achieved so I am just really proud of that."&nbsp;

"At the beginning, I was a little bit searching for my game still, but I think the rest of the match I played really solid, really smart," Bertens told a news conference.&nbsp;

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Making history and impossible shots.<a href="https://twitter.com/kikibertens?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kikibertens</a> masters the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MMOPEN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MMOPEN</a> Shot of the Day. <a href="https://t.co/oziaWcakki">pic.twitter.com/oziaWcakki</a>
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Newly minted Premier Mandatory champ <a href="https://twitter.com/kikibertens?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kikibertens</a> has a few words to share with the fans 👋<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MMOPEN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MMOPEN</a> <a href="https://t.co/hFsqORFmRo">pic.twitter.com/hFsqORFmRo</a>
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"Maybe a little bit lucky like on the 4-3 game when I hit the ball in the fence and it hit her but sometimes you need a little luck. I'm just happy how I was able to finish the match," she added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kiki Bertens moved up to the fourth spot in WTA ranking after defeating the former world number one Simona Halep in the final of Madrid Open on Saturday. Bertens needed 1 hour and 28 minutes to beat Halep 6-4, 6-4 in order to win the trophy in the Spanish capital.

Kiki Bertens moved up to the fourth spot in WTA ranking after defeating the former world number one Simona Halep in the final of Madrid Open on Saturday. Bertens needed 1 hour and 28 minutes to beat Halep 6-4, 6-4 in order to win the trophy in the Spanish capital. She also became the first woman to win the championship with dropping a set. After winning, Bertens said, "It feels unbelievable. I am just really happy right now that I was able to win the match today after last year's final. I think that helped me a lot to be on the court a little bit more confident and I felt good today." That was the second time Bertens beat Halep in a WTA final following her at the Western & Southern Open in the USA in August 2018. On achieving career's best ranking, Bertens said, "It feels really unbelievable. My best ranking after the winning this tournament. The biggest title of my career. The highest ranking ever a Dutch woman has achieved so I am just really proud of that." "At the beginning, I was a little bit searching for my game still, but I think the rest of the match I played really solid, really smart," Bertens told a news conference. Making history and impossible shots.@kikibertens masters the #MMOPEN Shot of the Day. pic.twitter.com/oziaWcakki — WTA (@WTA) May 11, 2019 × Newly minted Premier Mandatory champ @kikibertens has a few words to share with the fans 👋#MMOPEN pic.twitter.com/hFsqORFmRo — WTA (@WTA) May 11, 2019 × "Maybe a little bit lucky like on the 4-3 game when I hit the ball in the fence and it hit her but sometimes you need a little luck. I'm just happy how I was able to finish the match," she added.

'It feels really unbelievable,' says Kiki Bertens after moving up to 4th spot in world rankings

Stefanos Tsitsipas pulled off one of the biggest wins of his short but remarkable career by beating Rafael Nadal 6-4, 2-6, 6-3 on Spanish soil on Saturday to book his place in the Madrid Open final against world number one Novak Djokovic.

Tsitsipas, 20, had never won a set in his previous three meetings against claycourt specialist and 11-times French Open champion Nadal, but the Greek drew first blood by saving a break point to hold in the 10th game and take the first set.

He broke Nadal six times in the epic three-setter played late into the Madrid night, lasting two hours and 34 minutes, while saving 11 of the 16 break points he conceded to his opponent.

Before Nadal met Tsitsipas, he had won 26 of 27 service games in this year's Madrid Open, and the Spaniard had breezed past the youngster in the Barcelona Open final last season and this year's Australian Open semi-finals.

Nadal won the second set and looked to have the physical edge over his opponent, who has also been playing doubles in Madrid.

But Tsitsipas, the NextGen ATP finals champion, came back stronger in the decider with impressive court coverage and broke Nadal to take a 5-2 lead although he could not immediately serve out for the match.

He earned repeated match points in the next game when Nadal was serving and after the Spaniard had dug deep to save three of them he could only find the net on the fourth.

Tsitsipas dropped his racket and put his hands to his face to savour his first victory over the titan of claycourt tennis, completing a clean sweep of wins over Djokovic, Nadal and Roger Federer in less than 10 months.

"Unbelievable feeling"

Nadal, meanwhile, was left reflecting on a third straight semi-final exit on clay after losing to Fabio Fognini in the Monte Carlo Masters and Dominic Thiem in the Barcelona Open.

"It means the world, it's really nice to be able to play this way, it's an unbelievable feeling," Tsitsipas told reporters.

"I had to show mental discipline and being tough and decisive in those crucial moments was key, I had to take all opportunities because Rafa is a fighter, he doesn't give you many points."

Djokovic reached the final after seeing off last year's runner-up Dominic Thiem 7-6(2) 7-6(4) in a gruelling, high-quality match lasting two hours 22 minutes.

Tsitsipas beat Djokovic in the Rogers Cup in Toronto and was looking forward to another match with the Serbian.

"I'll have to be mentally prepared for Djokovic, I'm sure he wants the title as badly as me," he added.

Djokovic, winner in Madrid in 2011 and 2016, was fully rested after his quarter-final opponent Marin Cilic had withdrawn because of food poisoning, while Thiem had to dig deep to beat Roger Federer in a gruelling three-setter.

Thiem, who won the Barcelona Open last month and was on an eight-match winning streak, struck an early blow by breaking Djokovic in the fourth game but the Serbian responded by winning the next three games and saved two break points in the eighth.

The Serbian won the first tiebreak comfortably after poor shot selections from Thiem but was in trouble in the second set when he trailed 4-2.

He immediately broke back and had the chance to serve for the match at 6-5 but squandered the opportunity with a double fault.

Yet once again Djokovic had the edge in the tiebreak, earning three match points and taking the first as Thiem smashed a baseline backhand well out, booking his place in a first final since winning the Australian Open.

Stefanos Tsitsipas pulled off one of the biggest wins of his short but remarkable career by beating Rafael Nadal 6-4, 2-6, 6-3 on Spanish soil on Saturday to book his place in the Madrid Open final against world number one Novak Djokovic.

Stefanos Tsitsipas pulled off one of the biggest wins of his short but remarkable career by beating Rafael Nadal 6-4, 2-6, 6-3 on Spanish soil on Saturday to book his place in the Madrid Open final against world number one Novak Djokovic. Tsitsipas, 20, had never won a set in his previous three meetings against claycourt specialist and 11-times French Open champion Nadal, but the Greek drew first blood by saving a break point to hold in the 10th game and take the first set. He broke Nadal six times in the epic three-setter played late into the Madrid night, lasting two hours and 34 minutes, while saving 11 of the 16 break points he conceded to his opponent. Before Nadal met Tsitsipas, he had won 26 of 27 service games in this year's Madrid Open, and the Spaniard had breezed past the youngster in the Barcelona Open final last season and this year's Australian Open semi-finals. Nadal won the second set and looked to have the physical edge over his opponent, who has also been playing doubles in Madrid. But Tsitsipas, the NextGen ATP finals champion, came back stronger in the decider with impressive court coverage and broke Nadal to take a 5-2 lead although he could not immediately serve out for the match. He earned repeated match points in the next game when Nadal was serving and after the Spaniard had dug deep to save three of them he could only find the net on the fourth. Tsitsipas dropped his racket and put his hands to his face to savour his first victory over the titan of claycourt tennis, completing a clean sweep of wins over Djokovic, Nadal and Roger Federer in less than 10 months. "Unbelievable feeling" Nadal, meanwhile, was left reflecting on a third straight semi-final exit on clay after losing to Fabio Fognini in the Monte Carlo Masters and Dominic Thiem in the Barcelona Open. "It means the world, it's really nice to be able to play this way, it's an unbelievable feeling," Tsitsipas told reporters. "I had to show mental discipline and being tough and decisive in those crucial moments was key, I had to take all opportunities because Rafa is a fighter, he doesn't give you many points." Djokovic reached the final after seeing off last year's runner-up Dominic Thiem 7-6(2) 7-6(4) in a gruelling, high-quality match lasting two hours 22 minutes. Tsitsipas beat Djokovic in the Rogers Cup in Toronto and was looking forward to another match with the Serbian. "I'll have to be mentally prepared for Djokovic, I'm sure he wants the title as badly as me," he added. Djokovic, winner in Madrid in 2011 and 2016, was fully rested after his quarter-final opponent Marin Cilic had withdrawn because of food poisoning, while Thiem had to dig deep to beat Roger Federer in a gruelling three-setter. Thiem, who won the Barcelona Open last month and was on an eight-match winning streak, struck an early blow by breaking Djokovic in the fourth game but the Serbian responded by winning the next three games and saved two break points in the eighth. The Serbian won the first tiebreak comfortably after poor shot selections from Thiem but was in trouble in the second set when he trailed 4-2. He immediately broke back and had the chance to serve for the match at 6-5 but squandered the opportunity with a double fault. Yet once again Djokovic had the edge in the tiebreak, earning three match points and taking the first as Thiem smashed a baseline backhand well out, booking his place in a first final since winning the Australian Open.

Stefanos Tsitsipas comes of age to beat Rafael Nadal and reach Madrid final

Kiki Bertens won the biggest title of her career on Saturday, beating Simona Halep 6-4 6-4 in the Madrid Open final while also becoming the first woman ever to win the championship without dropping a set.

Making up for her loss in last year's final to Petra Kvitova, the clay court triumph ensured the Dutchwoman Bertens will move to a career-best fourth in the world rankings on Monday and become the highest ranked Dutchwoman in history.

The defeat was extra painful for Halep, though, who would have regained her number one ranking had she won the showpiece.

Bertens came back from 4-2 down in the first set against French Open champion Halep by winning the next three games, striking the first blow in a gripping final full of drama which lasted one hour and 27 minutes.

Bertens, who hit four aces among her 25 winners in an excellent performance, got off to an ideal start in the opening game of the second by breaking Halep, who was playing in her third Madrid final after triumphs in 2016 and 2017.

The Romanian stayed in contention but was dealt a terrible dose of luck in the eighth game which handed more momentum to Bertens.

A shot from Bertens was heading way out and would have handed Halep two break points but the wayward ball struck the Romanian's body, earning her opponent a fortuitous point that eventually led to her holding serve.

"Really solid, really smart"

"At the beginning I was a little bit searching for my game still, but I think the rest of the match I played really solid, really smart," Bertens told a news conference.

"Maybe a little bit lucky like on the 4-3 game when I hit the ball in the fence and it hit her but sometimes you need a little luck. I'm just happy how I was able to finish the match."

Bertens earned her first championship point with a scorching ace but Halep saved it with a drop volley at the net, only to then hand her rival another one by finding the net with a careless shot.

Bertens missed out again but earned a third championship point when Halep narrowly missed the baseline and she finally seized her ninth WTA title when the world number two hit a backhand out.

It was Bertens' fourth victory over a Grand Slam winner during the week on her way to the title.

"I just feel really happy. I am really proud of this week. I played some good tennis and will be number four in the world on Monday, it is just all amazing things," Bertens added.

Halep had no complaints, congratulating her opponent while admitting she played into Bertens' hands.

"She played better tennis tonight. She deserved to win the match, definitely," she said.

"I think I played wrong, and I'm upset about that. I played stupidly today, I did everything that she liked. It was a good match from her. And she deserved to win the title because she played really good tennis throughout the whole week."

Kiki Bertens won the biggest title of her career on Saturday, beating Simona Halep 6-4 6-4 in the Madrid Open final while also becoming the first woman ever to win the championship without dropping a set.

Kiki Bertens won the biggest title of her career on Saturday, beating Simona Halep 6-4 6-4 in the Madrid Open final while also becoming the first woman ever to win the championship without dropping a set. Making up for her loss in last year's final to Petra Kvitova, the clay court triumph ensured the Dutchwoman Bertens will move to a career-best fourth in the world rankings on Monday and become the highest ranked Dutchwoman in history. The defeat was extra painful for Halep, though, who would have regained her number one ranking had she won the showpiece. Bertens came back from 4-2 down in the first set against French Open champion Halep by winning the next three games, striking the first blow in a gripping final full of drama which lasted one hour and 27 minutes. Bertens, who hit four aces among her 25 winners in an excellent performance, got off to an ideal start in the opening game of the second by breaking Halep, who was playing in her third Madrid final after triumphs in 2016 and 2017. The Romanian stayed in contention but was dealt a terrible dose of luck in the eighth game which handed more momentum to Bertens. A shot from Bertens was heading way out and would have handed Halep two break points but the wayward ball struck the Romanian's body, earning her opponent a fortuitous point that eventually led to her holding serve. "Really solid, really smart" "At the beginning I was a little bit searching for my game still, but I think the rest of the match I played really solid, really smart," Bertens told a news conference. "Maybe a little bit lucky like on the 4-3 game when I hit the ball in the fence and it hit her but sometimes you need a little luck. I'm just happy how I was able to finish the match." Bertens earned her first championship point with a scorching ace but Halep saved it with a drop volley at the net, only to then hand her rival another one by finding the net with a careless shot. Bertens missed out again but earned a third championship point when Halep narrowly missed the baseline and she finally seized her ninth WTA title when the world number two hit a backhand out. It was Bertens' fourth victory over a Grand Slam winner during the week on her way to the title. "I just feel really happy. I am really proud of this week. I played some good tennis and will be number four in the world on Monday, it is just all amazing things," Bertens added. Halep had no complaints, congratulating her opponent while admitting she played into Bertens' hands. "She played better tennis tonight. She deserved to win the match, definitely," she said. "I think I played wrong, and I'm upset about that. I played stupidly today, I did everything that she liked. It was a good match from her. And she deserved to win the title because she played really good tennis throughout the whole week."

Kiki Bertens earns flawless Madrid triumph with win over Halep

Rafael Nadal cruised past Stan Wawrinka 6-1, 6-2 in the last <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-reaches-madrid-open-semi-finals-after-maran-cilics-food-poisoning-withdrawal-217505">Madrid Open</a> quarter-final Friday to set up a clash with Stefanos Tsitsipas, who edged Alexander Zverev 7-5 3-6 6-2, in the other semi.

Second-seeded Spaniard Nadal made light work of Wawrinka in the night session, looking back to his best after a disappointing semi-final exit at the Barcelona Open and suffering a virus earlier this week.

A five-time winner in Madrid, Nadal reached the semi-finals for the 11th time when Wawrinka's attempted backhand return hit the net.

"It was one of my best games for some time," said Nadal.

In earlier action, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dominic-thiem-ousts-roger-federer-in-madrid-open-thriller-to-reach-semis-217625">Dominic Thiem edged past Roger Federer</a> 3-6, 7-6(11), 6-4 to end the Swiss veteran's clay season comeback and reach the Madrid Open semi-finals

The fifth-seeded Austrian, who saved two match points, will face Novak Djokovic on Saturday after the world number one's opponent Marin Cilic withdrew with food poisoning.

Federer, playing his first clay tournament for three years, raced into a 4-1 lead inside 15 minutes as he broke the 220 kilometres-per-hour barrier with some powerful serving.

He showed the same drive that saw him bagel Gael Monfils in the first set on Thursday.

The Frenchman had then battled back to force a thrilling tiebreak finale in the third set, and Thiem upped his game significantly too, taking the second set to the wire.

Federer survived three game points to hold serve for 3-3 before Thiem eventually triumphed 13-11 in a gripping tiebreak, saving two match points to force a decider.

Thiem broke to go 2-1 in the third.

Federer broke back to pull level at 4-4 but the Austrian broke again in the next game, sealing it with a sensational forehand over his opponent before serving out the match.

Tsitsipas played a steady game to beat last year's winner Zverev, who made 14 unforced errors in the opening set.

Zverev roared back in the second but double-faulted twice serving at 1-2 down in the decisive third, with Tsitsipas breaking and striding to victory in the battle between two of the sport's young talents.

Rafael Nadal cruised past Stan Wawrinka 6-1, 6-2 in the last Madrid Open quarter-final Friday to set up a clash with Stefanos Tsitsipas, who edged Alexander Zverev 7-5 3-6 6-2, in the other semi.

Rafael Nadal cruised past Stan Wawrinka 6-1, 6-2 in the last Madrid Open quarter-final Friday to set up a clash with Stefanos Tsitsipas, who edged Alexander Zverev 7-5 3-6 6-2, in the other semi. Second-seeded Spaniard Nadal made light work of Wawrinka in the night session, looking back to his best after a disappointing semi-final exit at the Barcelona Open and suffering a virus earlier this week. A five-time winner in Madrid, Nadal reached the semi-finals for the 11th time when Wawrinka's attempted backhand return hit the net. "It was one of my best games for some time," said Nadal. In earlier action, Dominic Thiem edged past Roger Federer 3-6, 7-6(11), 6-4 to end the Swiss veteran's clay season comeback and reach the Madrid Open semi-finals The fifth-seeded Austrian, who saved two match points, will face Novak Djokovic on Saturday after the world number one's opponent Marin Cilic withdrew with food poisoning. Federer, playing his first clay tournament for three years, raced into a 4-1 lead inside 15 minutes as he broke the 220 kilometres-per-hour barrier with some powerful serving. He showed the same drive that saw him bagel Gael Monfils in the first set on Thursday. The Frenchman had then battled back to force a thrilling tiebreak finale in the third set, and Thiem upped his game significantly too, taking the second set to the wire. Federer survived three game points to hold serve for 3-3 before Thiem eventually triumphed 13-11 in a gripping tiebreak, saving two match points to force a decider. Thiem broke to go 2-1 in the third. Federer broke back to pull level at 4-4 but the Austrian broke again in the next game, sealing it with a sensational forehand over his opponent before serving out the match. Tsitsipas played a steady game to beat last year's winner Zverev, who made 14 unforced errors in the opening set. Zverev roared back in the second but double-faulted twice serving at 1-2 down in the decisive third, with Tsitsipas breaking and striding to victory in the battle between two of the sport's young talents.

Rafael Nadal breezes past Stan Wawrinka and into Madrid Open semi-finals

Simona Halep reached her fourth Madrid Open final with a 6-2, 6-7(2), 6-0 win over Belinda Bencic on Friday and will face last year's runner up Kiki Bertens, who beat Sloane Stephens 6-2, 7-5.

World number three Halep can move back to the top of the WTA rankings with a win in Saturday's final.

Twice Madrid winner Halep broke the unseeded Bencic in the first game of the first set, the Swiss's errant backhand flying out, but she broke back to tie at 2-2.

The Romanian broke for a 3-2 lead and a down-the-line shot sealed another break in the penultimate game before she served out to win it comfortably in 27 minutes.

Halep won virtually all of the long rallies, but Bencic reacted well at the start of the second set, playing more aggressively.

Bencic broke to go 3-1 up, enjoying a stroke of luck with a shot that clipped the net and dropped just over.

Halep battled back, earning a tiebreak, but Bencic won it comfortably to force a deciding set, although she immediately started to struggle.

At three games down, she cried during the changeover, with Halep immediately breaking for 4-0 when play resumed, going on to wrap up the set and the match with ease.

"It's a nice feeling to be back in the final of this special tournament, I'm really happy playing here," said Halep.

"In the second set in that tiebreak I was rushing too much, I lost control of it, but then I just calmed down, told myself I had to start the match again.

"I started to play smarter, opened the court more and became more aggressive."

Bertens had to save three set points against Stephens but eventually recorded her first victory against the American in their third encounter.

The Dutch world number seven triumphed in St Petersburg this season and is going for her ninth career title on Saturday.

"I feel unbelievable of course, it's great to be in the final and I'm happy to finish it in two (sets)," said Bertens.

"It's going to be really tough (against Halep), we played each other in the past so I know it will be a tough battle, but I'm ready for it, one more push here."

Simona Halep reached her fourth Madrid Open final with a 6-2, 6-7(2), 6-0 win over Belinda Bencic on Friday and will face last year's runner up Kiki Bertens, who beat Sloane Stephens 6-2, 7-5.

Simona Halep reached her fourth Madrid Open final with a 6-2, 6-7(2), 6-0 win over Belinda Bencic on Friday and will face last year's runner up Kiki Bertens, who beat Sloane Stephens 6-2, 7-5. World number three Halep can move back to the top of the WTA rankings with a win in Saturday's final. Twice Madrid winner Halep broke the unseeded Bencic in the first game of the first set, the Swiss's errant backhand flying out, but she broke back to tie at 2-2. The Romanian broke for a 3-2 lead and a down-the-line shot sealed another break in the penultimate game before she served out to win it comfortably in 27 minutes. Halep won virtually all of the long rallies, but Bencic reacted well at the start of the second set, playing more aggressively. Bencic broke to go 3-1 up, enjoying a stroke of luck with a shot that clipped the net and dropped just over. Halep battled back, earning a tiebreak, but Bencic won it comfortably to force a deciding set, although she immediately started to struggle. At three games down, she cried during the changeover, with Halep immediately breaking for 4-0 when play resumed, going on to wrap up the set and the match with ease. "It's a nice feeling to be back in the final of this special tournament, I'm really happy playing here," said Halep. "In the second set in that tiebreak I was rushing too much, I lost control of it, but then I just calmed down, told myself I had to start the match again. "I started to play smarter, opened the court more and became more aggressive." Bertens had to save three set points against Stephens but eventually recorded her first victory against the American in their third encounter. The Dutch world number seven triumphed in St Petersburg this season and is going for her ninth career title on Saturday. "I feel unbelievable of course, it's great to be in the final and I'm happy to finish it in two (sets)," said Bertens. "It's going to be really tough (against Halep), we played each other in the past so I know it will be a tough battle, but I'm ready for it, one more push here."

Simona Halep to face Kiki Bertens in Madrid Open final

Dominic Thiem edged a thrilling clash with Roger Federer 3-6, 7-6(11), 6-4 to end the Swiss veteran's clay season comeback and reach the Madrid Open semi-finals on Friday (May 10).

The fifth-seeded Austrian, who saved two match points, will face Novak Djokovic on Saturday after the world number one's opponent Marin Cilic withdrew with food poisoning.

Federer, playing his first clay tournament for three years, raced into a 4-1 lead inside 15 minutes as he broke the 220 kilometres-per-hour barrier with some powerful serving.

He showed the same drive that saw him bagel Gael Monfils in the first set on Thursday.

The Frenchman had then battled back to force a thrilling tie-break finale in the third set, and Thiem upped his game significantly too, taking the second set to the wire.

Federer survived three game points to hold serve for 3-3 before Thiem eventually triumphed 13-11 in a gripping tie-break, saving two match points to force a decider.

Thiem broke to go 2-1 in the third. Federer broke back to pull level at 4-4 but the Austrian broke again in the next game, sealing it with a sensational forehand over his opponent before serving out the match.

His next opponent, seeded one, will be well rested after Cilic's unfortunate exit.

"I have had a terrible night dealing with a case of food poisoning. I am extremely disappointed to have my time in Madrid end in this way. Thank you for the support," the Croatian said on Twitter.

In Friday's other quarter-finals, Stefanos Tsitsipas faces Alexander Zverev and second seeded Rafa Nadal plays Stan Wawrinka.

Dominic Thiem edged a thrilling clash with Roger Federer 3-6, 7-6(11), 6-4 to end the Swiss veteran's clay season comeback and reach the Madrid Open semi-finals on Friday (May 10).

Dominic Thiem edged a thrilling clash with Roger Federer 3-6, 7-6(11), 6-4 to end the Swiss veteran's clay season comeback and reach the Madrid Open semi-finals on Friday (May 10). The fifth-seeded Austrian, who saved two match points, will face Novak Djokovic on Saturday after the world number one's opponent Marin Cilic withdrew with food poisoning. Federer, playing his first clay tournament for three years, raced into a 4-1 lead inside 15 minutes as he broke the 220 kilometres-per-hour barrier with some powerful serving. He showed the same drive that saw him bagel Gael Monfils in the first set on Thursday. The Frenchman had then battled back to force a thrilling tie-break finale in the third set, and Thiem upped his game significantly too, taking the second set to the wire. Federer survived three game points to hold serve for 3-3 before Thiem eventually triumphed 13-11 in a gripping tie-break, saving two match points to force a decider. Thiem broke to go 2-1 in the third. Federer broke back to pull level at 4-4 but the Austrian broke again in the next game, sealing it with a sensational forehand over his opponent before serving out the match. His next opponent, seeded one, will be well rested after Cilic's unfortunate exit. "I have had a terrible night dealing with a case of food poisoning. I am extremely disappointed to have my time in Madrid end in this way. Thank you for the support," the Croatian said on Twitter. In Friday's other quarter-finals, Stefanos Tsitsipas faces Alexander Zverev and second seeded Rafa Nadal plays Stan Wawrinka.

Dominic Thiem ousts Roger Federer in Madrid Open thriller to reach semis

World number one Novak Djokovic automatically progressed to the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-survives-match-points-to-beat-gael-monfils-reaches-madrid-open-quarter-finals-217442&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjTv7_a7ZDiAhXC63MBHbZsCygQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2pQmCQaHu6npgnztShcv2R">Madrid Open</a> semi-finals after his quarter-final opponent Marin Cilic was forced to withdraw because of food poisoning on Friday.

"Dear fans, Madrid Open organisers, Novak Djokovic, I am sorry to announce that I must withdraw from today’s match," said&nbsp;Croatian&nbsp;Cilic on Twitter.

"I have had a terrible night dealing with a case of food poisoning. I am extremely disappointed to have my time in Madrid end in this way. Thank you for the support", his tweet read.

Djokovic, in his 250th week at the top of the men’s ATP rankings, will face either Roger Federer or Dominic Thiem in the semi-final on Saturday.

The Serbian, who triumphed in the Spanish capital in 2011 and 2016, beat Taylor Fritz and Jeremy Chardy in the second and third rounds.

World number one Novak Djokovic automatically progressed to the Madrid Open semi-finals after his quarter-final opponent Marin Cilic was forced to withdraw because of food poisoning on Friday.

World number one Novak Djokovic automatically progressed to the Madrid Open semi-finals after his quarter-final opponent Marin Cilic was forced to withdraw because of food poisoning on Friday. "Dear fans, Madrid Open organisers, Novak Djokovic, I am sorry to announce that I must withdraw from today’s match," said Croatian Cilic on Twitter. "I have had a terrible night dealing with a case of food poisoning. I am extremely disappointed to have my time in Madrid end in this way. Thank you for the support", his tweet read. Djokovic, in his 250th week at the top of the men’s ATP rankings, will face either Roger Federer or Dominic Thiem in the semi-final on Saturday. The Serbian, who triumphed in the Spanish capital in 2011 and 2016, beat Taylor Fritz and Jeremy Chardy in the second and third rounds.

Novak Djokovic reaches Madrid Open semi-finals after Maran Cilic's food poisoning withdrawal

Roger Federer survived two match points against French maverick Gael Monfils to extend his claycourt comeback and reach the quarter-finals of the Madrid Open on Thursday.

He was joined in the last eight by <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-beats-felix-auger-aliassime-in-straight-sets-qualifies-for-quarter-finals-at-madrid-open-217224&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwik-OX0s5DiAhXEheYKHVGPAwIQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2CXvC5FidMaomP_QkG9c_L">five-times Madrid champion Rafael Nadal</a> and world number one Novak Djokovic.

The evergreen Federer did not drop a game in a dominant first set but was dragged into an intense battle by an inspired Monfils before prevailing 6-0, 4-6, 7-6(3).

World number three Federer, playing his first tournament on clay for three years as he prepares for the French Open, surrendered the initiative after his brisk start and was in deep trouble in the third set when he trailed 4-1.

Federer struggled with his timing on occasions in breezy, sunny conditions and swatted a ball angrily over the stands when he dropped serve at the start of the decider.

But the 37-year-old Swiss broke back in the seventh game with a stunning sliced backhand return.

Monfils earned a match point at 5-6 on the Federer serve with an ice-cool backhand pass, but Federer followed in a second serve and bounced away from a smash.

Federer saved another match point to set up a tiebreak and he proved unstoppable as he swept to his 1,200th match win.

Austrian Dominic Thiem, a beaten finalist in Madrid last year, awaits in the next round after he beat Italian Fabio Fognini.

"I think Gael did a nice job of not being frustrated losing the first set.&nbsp;I lost five games in a row and it didn't look good for a while but I hung in. There were some highly stressful moments but I mixed it up nicely",&nbsp;Federer said.

Federer's fellow Swiss Stan Wawrinka, champion at Roland Garros in 2015, continued to produce some vintage form as he beat Japan's Kei Nishikori 6-3 7-6(3).

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-extends-lead-as-world-no1-fabio-fognini-climbs-rankings-212554&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi77vqctJDiAhVd4HMBHWl_CUYQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2vO38gK_1u4IKTw8EezypB">World number one Djokovic</a> was untroubled as he beat Jeremy Chardy 6-1 7-6(2) to set up a clash against Marin Cilic after the Croatian battled past Serbian Laslo Djere 4-6 6-3 6-2.

Spaniard Nadal, who later this month will aim for a 12th French Open, swept past unseeded American Frances Tiafoe 6-3 6-4 while defending champion Alexander Zverev defeated Hubert Hurkacz 3-6 6-4 6-4.

 
&nbsp;

Roger Federer survived two match points against French maverick Gael Monfils to extend his claycourt comeback and reach the quarter-finals of the Madrid Open on Thursday.

Roger Federer survived two match points against French maverick Gael Monfils to extend his claycourt comeback and reach the quarter-finals of the Madrid Open on Thursday. He was joined in the last eight by five-times Madrid champion Rafael Nadal and world number one Novak Djokovic. The evergreen Federer did not drop a game in a dominant first set but was dragged into an intense battle by an inspired Monfils before prevailing 6-0, 4-6, 7-6(3). World number three Federer, playing his first tournament on clay for three years as he prepares for the French Open, surrendered the initiative after his brisk start and was in deep trouble in the third set when he trailed 4-1. Federer struggled with his timing on occasions in breezy, sunny conditions and swatted a ball angrily over the stands when he dropped serve at the start of the decider. But the 37-year-old Swiss broke back in the seventh game with a stunning sliced backhand return. Monfils earned a match point at 5-6 on the Federer serve with an ice-cool backhand pass, but Federer followed in a second serve and bounced away from a smash. Federer saved another match point to set up a tiebreak and he proved unstoppable as he swept to his 1,200th match win. Austrian Dominic Thiem, a beaten finalist in Madrid last year, awaits in the next round after he beat Italian Fabio Fognini. "I think Gael did a nice job of not being frustrated losing the first set. I lost five games in a row and it didn't look good for a while but I hung in. There were some highly stressful moments but I mixed it up nicely", Federer said. Federer's fellow Swiss Stan Wawrinka, champion at Roland Garros in 2015, continued to produce some vintage form as he beat Japan's Kei Nishikori 6-3 7-6(3). World number one Djokovic was untroubled as he beat Jeremy Chardy 6-1 7-6(2) to set up a clash against Marin Cilic after the Croatian battled past Serbian Laslo Djere 4-6 6-3 6-2. Spaniard Nadal, who later this month will aim for a 12th French Open, swept past unseeded American Frances Tiafoe 6-3 6-4 while defending champion Alexander Zverev defeated Hubert Hurkacz 3-6 6-4 6-4.

Roger Federer survives match points to beat Gael Monfils; reaches Madrid Open quarter-finals

Rafael Nadal who is aiming for a sixth Madrid Open title on Wednesday defeated Canadian Felix Auger Aliassime 6-3, 6-3 in straight sets.

Playing on familiar territory, the Spaniard relied on his defence to bog down Aliassime's aggressive tactics.

After spending some time on the court, the Spaniard started unleashing his serves to which Aliassime had no replies.

"It's a day to be very satisfied, very happy. I managed to win. I managed to win in two sets against an opponent, who was not easy, and the day was not the best. It was windy and cold. Of course, there have been positive things. I think that my backhand has been really going well and other things. There are many things to improve, of course," Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) quoted Nadal as saying.

Nadal, who will be chasing his 18th Grand Slam title at Roland Garros easily took the first set 6-3 and Aliassime finished with 30 unforced errors, including 16 forehands.

The 18-year-old Aliassime sought recovery in the second set, but Nadal proved too much for him.

The Spanish player won 76 per cent of his service points (34/45) and easily took the second set as well, winning the match 6-3, 6-3.

Nadal who was battling a stomach bug on Sunday was able to make a triumphant return in the match against Aliassime.

"The important thing is to win, especially given what`s happened in the last three days," Nadal said.

"The first seven games I didn't have a lot of rhythm. Both him and I, we were struggling when returning the balls. We had a lot of first serves and returning was very difficult... I managed to do a break, and from there onwards, it`s a turning point. I think I started to return a little bit better from thereon. And I did things better than him," he added.

Nadal will take on Australian Open quarter-finalist Frances Tiafoe in the quarter-finals of Madrid Open.

Rafael Nadal who is aiming for a sixth Madrid Open title on Wednesday defeated Canadian Felix Auger Aliassime 6-3, 6-3 in straight sets. Playing on familiar territory, the Spaniard relied on his defence to bog down Aliassime's aggressive tactics.

Rafael Nadal who is aiming for a sixth Madrid Open title on Wednesday defeated Canadian Felix Auger Aliassime 6-3, 6-3 in straight sets. Playing on familiar territory, the Spaniard relied on his defence to bog down Aliassime's aggressive tactics. After spending some time on the court, the Spaniard started unleashing his serves to which Aliassime had no replies. "It's a day to be very satisfied, very happy. I managed to win. I managed to win in two sets against an opponent, who was not easy, and the day was not the best. It was windy and cold. Of course, there have been positive things. I think that my backhand has been really going well and other things. There are many things to improve, of course," Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) quoted Nadal as saying. Nadal, who will be chasing his 18th Grand Slam title at Roland Garros easily took the first set 6-3 and Aliassime finished with 30 unforced errors, including 16 forehands. The 18-year-old Aliassime sought recovery in the second set, but Nadal proved too much for him. The Spanish player won 76 per cent of his service points (34/45) and easily took the second set as well, winning the match 6-3, 6-3. Nadal who was battling a stomach bug on Sunday was able to make a triumphant return in the match against Aliassime. "The important thing is to win, especially given what`s happened in the last three days," Nadal said. "The first seven games I didn't have a lot of rhythm. Both him and I, we were struggling when returning the balls. We had a lot of first serves and returning was very difficult... I managed to do a break, and from there onwards, it`s a turning point. I think I started to return a little bit better from thereon. And I did things better than him," he added. Nadal will take on Australian Open quarter-finalist Frances Tiafoe in the quarter-finals of Madrid Open.

Rafael Nadal beats Felix Auger-Aliassime in straight sets, qualifies for quarter-finals at Madrid Open

Roger Federer confirmed his participation for this year's Madrid Open on Wednesday, marking his return to the European clay court season after two years away.

The 20-times Grand Slam champion has not played this year since his Australian Open round of 16 defeat by Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas in January.

Federer, whose sole French Open title came in 2009, has preferred to skip the European clay season over the last two seasons to manage his schedule.

The 37-year-old Swiss is the second most successful player at the Caja Magica behind Rafa Nadal, winning three titles in 2006, 2009 and 2012.

"Federer is one of the best players of all time, it's no secret," tournament director Feliciano Lopez said in a statement.

"We are happy because his return to Madrid is a gift to the tournament, but above all the fans will be able to see a unique player in the Caja Magica. Having the Swiss player back on clay with Djokovic and Nadal is going to be unmissable."

World number one Novak Djokovic and 11-times French Open winner Nadal are also expected to feature at the Madrid Open, which will be played from May 3-12.

Roger Federer confirmed his participation for this year's Madrid Open on Wednesday, marking his return to the European clay court season after two years away. The 20-times Grand Slam champion has not played this year since his Australian Open round of 16 defeat by Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas in January.

Roger Federer confirmed his participation for this year's Madrid Open on Wednesday, marking his return to the European clay court season after two years away. The 20-times Grand Slam champion has not played this year since his Australian Open round of 16 defeat by Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas in January. Federer, whose sole French Open title came in 2009, has preferred to skip the European clay season over the last two seasons to manage his schedule. The 37-year-old Swiss is the second most successful player at the Caja Magica behind Rafa Nadal, winning three titles in 2006, 2009 and 2012. "Federer is one of the best players of all time, it's no secret," tournament director Feliciano Lopez said in a statement. "We are happy because his return to Madrid is a gift to the tournament, but above all the fans will be able to see a unique player in the Caja Magica. Having the Swiss player back on clay with Djokovic and Nadal is going to be unmissable." World number one Novak Djokovic and 11-times French Open winner Nadal are also expected to feature at the Madrid Open, which will be played from May 3-12.

Roger Federer to make clay court return at Madrid Open

Czech 10th seed Petra Kvitova won the Madrid Open title for the third time on Saturday with a marathon 7-6 (8/6), 4-6, 6-3 victory over Kiki Bertens of the Netherlands.

Kvitova, who was also the champion in Madrid in 2011 and 2015, has now claimed four titles in 2018 after triumphs in St Petersburg, Doha and last weekend in Prague.

Victory, on a chilly, damp night in the Spanish capital, took Kvitova two hours and 51 minutes against a gutsy, unseeded Bertens who had knocked out former world number ones Maria Sharapova and Caroline Wozniacki on her way to the championship match.

In a big-hitting, roller-coaster of a final, Kvitova claimed her 24th career title on the back of 39 winners and 58 unforced errors.

Bertens, who had won five of her previous six finals, including on clay in Charleston earlier this year, led 4-2 with a break in the first set before Kvitova roared back, retrieving the break in the next game.

The Czech claimed the 74-minute opener on a third set point.

Bertens carved out the only break in the seventh game of the second set to level the contest.

She then fell 2-4 down in the decider before bravely hitting straight back but in a thrilling finale, Kvitova dug deep to break again for 5-3 before a love service hold gave her victory and an 11th successive match win.

&nbsp;

10th seed Petra Kvitova won the Madrid Open title for the third time on Saturday with a marathon 7-6 (8/6), 4-6, 6-3 victory over Kiki Bertens

Czech 10th seed Petra Kvitova won the Madrid Open title for the third time on Saturday with a marathon 7-6 (8/6), 4-6, 6-3 victory over Kiki Bertens of the Netherlands. Kvitova, who was also the champion in Madrid in 2011 and 2015, has now claimed four titles in 2018 after triumphs in St Petersburg, Doha and last weekend in Prague. Victory, on a chilly, damp night in the Spanish capital, took Kvitova two hours and 51 minutes against a gutsy, unseeded Bertens who had knocked out former world number ones Maria Sharapova and Caroline Wozniacki on her way to the championship match. In a big-hitting, roller-coaster of a final, Kvitova claimed her 24th career title on the back of 39 winners and 58 unforced errors. Bertens, who had won five of her previous six finals, including on clay in Charleston earlier this year, led 4-2 with a break in the first set before Kvitova roared back, retrieving the break in the next game. The Czech claimed the 74-minute opener on a third set point. Bertens carved out the only break in the seventh game of the second set to level the contest. She then fell 2-4 down in the decider before bravely hitting straight back but in a thrilling finale, Kvitova dug deep to break again for 5-3 before a love service hold gave her victory and an 11th successive match win.

Petra Kvitova clinches Madrid Open title

Two-time champion Petra Kvitova reached the Madrid Open final once again on Friday with a 7-6 (7/4), 6-3 win over Czech compatriot Karolina Pliskova.

Kvitova, the 2011 and 2015 champion in the Spanish capital, also stretched her current winning run to 10 matches.

The left-handed 10th seed will face Kiki Bertens of the Netherlands, who knocked out Caroline Garcia of France 6-2, 6-2, in Saturday's final.

On the other hand, Austrian tennis star Dominic Thiem defeated world number one Rafael Nadal 7-5 6-3 in the quarter-finals of the Madrid Open and also ended Nadal's 21-match unbeaten run on clay.&nbsp;

Recently Nadal broke John McEnroe's 34-year record by winning his 50th consecutive set on clay.

31-year-old Rafael Nadal had set a new record of 50 consecutive set wins on a single surface on Thursday after defeating Diego Schwartzman 6-3, 6-4 in the previous round.

Defending champion had not dropped a set on clay since losing to Thiem in 2017 and now after 357 days, it is no one other than Dominic Thiem who finally ended Nadal's winning streak.

Two-time champion Petra Kvitova reached the Madrid Open final once again with a 7-6 (7/4), 6-3 win over Czech compatriot Karolina Pliskova

Two-time champion Petra Kvitova reached the Madrid Open final once again on Friday with a 7-6 (7/4), 6-3 win over Czech compatriot Karolina Pliskova. Kvitova, the 2011 and 2015 champion in the Spanish capital, also stretched her current winning run to 10 matches. The left-handed 10th seed will face Kiki Bertens of the Netherlands, who knocked out Caroline Garcia of France 6-2, 6-2, in Saturday's final. On the other hand, Austrian tennis star Dominic Thiem defeated world number one Rafael Nadal 7-5 6-3 in the quarter-finals of the Madrid Open and also ended Nadal's 21-match unbeaten run on clay. Recently Nadal broke John McEnroe's 34-year record by winning his 50th consecutive set on clay. 31-year-old Rafael Nadal had set a new record of 50 consecutive set wins on a single surface on Thursday after defeating Diego Schwartzman 6-3, 6-4 in the previous round. Defending champion had not dropped a set on clay since losing to Thiem in 2017 and now after 357 days, it is no one other than Dominic Thiem who finally ended Nadal's winning streak.

Petra Kvitova outplays Karolina Pliskova to enter finals of Madrid Open

Austrian tennis star Dominic Thiem defeated world number one Rafael Nadal 7-5 6-3 in the quarter-finals of the Madrid Open and also ended Nadal's 21-match unbeaten run on clay.&nbsp

Recently Nadal broke&nbspJohn McEnroe's 34-year record by winning his 50th consecutive set on clay.

31-year-old Rafael Nadal had set a new record of 50 consecutive set wins on a single surface on Thursday after defeating Diego Schwartzman 6-3, 6-4 in the previous round.

Defending champion had not dropped a set on clay since losing to Thiem in 2017 and now after 357 days, it is no one other than Dominic Thiem who finally ended Nadal's winning streak.

<img alt="000_14S9QL.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/sports/000_14S9QL.jpg" width="770" />

<h6>Rafael Nadal congratulates Austria's Dominic Thiem (L)&nbsp</h6>

Fifth-seeded Thiem outplayed Nadal as the later was playing below his best and hit 29 unforced errors in the two sets and also failed to convert break points.

Five-time Madrid champion Nadal came into the tournament having won his 11th titles at Monte Carlo and at Barcelona.

The shock result also means that Roger Federer will reclaim the world number one ranking on Monday.

Austrian tennis star Dominic Thiem defeated world number one Rafael Nadal 7-5 6-3 in the quarter-finals of the Madrid Open

Austrian tennis star Dominic Thiem defeated world number one Rafael Nadal 7-5 6-3 in the quarter-finals of the Madrid Open and also ended Nadal's 21-match unbeaten run on clay. Recently Nadal broke&nbspJohn McEnroe's 34-year record by winning his 50th consecutive set on clay. 31-year-old Rafael Nadal had set a new record of 50 consecutive set wins on a single surface on Thursday after defeating Diego Schwartzman 6-3, 6-4 in the previous round. Defending champion had not dropped a set on clay since losing to Thiem in 2017 and now after 357 days, it is no one other than Dominic Thiem who finally ended Nadal's winning streak. Rafael Nadal congratulates Austria's Dominic Thiem (L) Fifth-seeded Thiem outplayed Nadal as the later was playing below his best and hit 29 unforced errors in the two sets and also failed to convert break points. Five-time Madrid champion Nadal came into the tournament having won his 11th titles at Monte Carlo and at Barcelona. The shock result also means that Roger Federer will reclaim the world number one ranking on Monday.

Rafael Nadal's unbeaten run ends as Dominic Thiem knocks him out of Madrid Open

Rafael Nadal broke John McEnroe's 34-year record on Thursday by winning his 50th consecutive set on clay at the Madrid Open.

But while the world number one cruised to a 6-3, 6-4 victory over Diego Schwartzman, Juan Martin del Potro, Maria Sharapova and Simona Halep all crashed out.

Nadal's straight-sets victory means he establishes a new Open era best for consecutive sets won on a single surface, passing McEnroe's 49 on carpet in 1984.

McEnroe also won the Madrid Open Indoor title that year and Nadal may be about to follow suit in the Spanish capital, with Austrian Dominic Thiem up next in the quarter-finals on Friday.

His unbeaten run is also perhaps a reflection of a lack of rivals, with Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray, for different reasons, all posing little threat on clay over the past year.

"When my career is over, these are things that are going to be there forever," Nadal said.&nbsp

"They are big records. It's difficult to be able to win 50 sets in a row. But I've done it. It's over.&nbsp

"Let's not talk about that any more and let's focus on what we have ahead."

Del Potro, however, will not join him in the last eight. The Argentinian led 4-0 in a third-set tie-break but still lost 3-6, 6-4, 7-6 (8/6) to Serbian qualifier Dusan Lajovic. &nbsp

Lajovic will now face South Africa's Kevin Anderson, who overcame Philipp Kohlschreiber.

"I think I can improve a lot of things towards Rome and Roland Garros," Del Potro said. "I can level up my game. Right now I'm quite calm."

Pliskova triumphant

Sharapova also lost in three sets to Kiki Bertens of the Netherlands while Halep, the champion in 2016 and 2017, was blown away by Karolina Pliskova.

It means Pliskova, the sixth seed, is the highest-ranked player left in the women's draw after Caroline Wozniacki, Garbine Muguruza, Elina Svitolina and Jelena Ostapenko all lost earlier in the week.

Pliskova's 6-4, 6-3 win sets up a semi-final showdown with two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova, who saw off Russia's Daria Kasatkina.

"Even in the warm-up I felt so good today," Pliskova said.

"I think I played one of my best matches this year for sure, and for sure on clay in my life."

Halep said: "Today she didn't miss. I didn't play badly in my opinion.&nbsp

"I missed in some important moments, that's why it went her way but I'm not very disappointed about this match. She deserved to win."

Sharapova is set to climb inside the top 40 next week and the 31-year-old will be encouraged by her week's work, where she showed signs she is finding her rhythm.&nbsp

The Russian arrived on the back of four consecutive defeats but three victories and a narrow 4-6, 6-2, 6-3 loss to Bertens suggests she could be a threat at the French Open later this month.&nbsp

"It was great to get those wins against those players," said Sharapova, the 2014 champion in Madrid.&nbsp

"But there's a reason I came up short today. You also want to evaluate that and go back to the drawing board and start over again."

Bertens, meanwhile, will now face France's Caroline Garcia, who eased past Carla Suarez Navarro 6-2, 6-3.

Novak Djokovic's conqueror, Kyle Edmund, maintained his strong run with a comfortable 6-3, 6-3 win over eighth seed David Goffin.

Edmund will face Denis Shapovalov, who came through his all-Canadian clash with Milos Raonic, 6-4, 6-4.

Second seed Alexander Zverev beat Argentina's Leonardo Mayer and will now take on John Isner, who beat Pablo Cuevas.

&nbsp

Rafael Nadal broke John McEnroe's 34-year record on Thursday by winning his 50th consecutive set on clay at the Madrid Open

Rafael Nadal broke John McEnroe's 34-year record on Thursday by winning his 50th consecutive set on clay at the Madrid Open. But while the world number one cruised to a 6-3, 6-4 victory over Diego Schwartzman, Juan Martin del Potro, Maria Sharapova and Simona Halep all crashed out. Nadal's straight-sets victory means he establishes a new Open era best for consecutive sets won on a single surface, passing McEnroe's 49 on carpet in 1984. McEnroe also won the Madrid Open Indoor title that year and Nadal may be about to follow suit in the Spanish capital, with Austrian Dominic Thiem up next in the quarter-finals on Friday. His unbeaten run is also perhaps a reflection of a lack of rivals, with Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray, for different reasons, all posing little threat on clay over the past year. "When my career is over, these are things that are going to be there forever," Nadal said. "They are big records. It's difficult to be able to win 50 sets in a row. But I've done it. It's over. "Let's not talk about that any more and let's focus on what we have ahead." Del Potro, however, will not join him in the last eight. The Argentinian led 4-0 in a third-set tie-break but still lost 3-6, 6-4, 7-6 (8/6) to Serbian qualifier Dusan Lajovic. Lajovic will now face South Africa's Kevin Anderson, who overcame Philipp Kohlschreiber. "I think I can improve a lot of things towards Rome and Roland Garros," Del Potro said. "I can level up my game. Right now I'm quite calm." Pliskova triumphant Sharapova also lost in three sets to Kiki Bertens of the Netherlands while Halep, the champion in 2016 and 2017, was blown away by Karolina Pliskova. It means Pliskova, the sixth seed, is the highest-ranked player left in the women's draw after Caroline Wozniacki, Garbine Muguruza, Elina Svitolina and Jelena Ostapenko all lost earlier in the week. Pliskova's 6-4, 6-3 win sets up a semi-final showdown with two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova, who saw off Russia's Daria Kasatkina. "Even in the warm-up I felt so good today," Pliskova said. "I think I played one of my best matches this year for sure, and for sure on clay in my life." Halep said: "Today she didn't miss. I didn't play badly in my opinion. "I missed in some important moments, that's why it went her way but I'm not very disappointed about this match. She deserved to win." Sharapova is set to climb inside the top 40 next week and the 31-year-old will be encouraged by her week's work, where she showed signs she is finding her rhythm. The Russian arrived on the back of four consecutive defeats but three victories and a narrow 4-6, 6-2, 6-3 loss to Bertens suggests she could be a threat at the French Open later this month. "It was great to get those wins against those players," said Sharapova, the 2014 champion in Madrid. "But there's a reason I came up short today. You also want to evaluate that and go back to the drawing board and start over again." Bertens, meanwhile, will now face France's Caroline Garcia, who eased past Carla Suarez Navarro 6-2, 6-3. Novak Djokovic's conqueror, Kyle Edmund, maintained his strong run with a comfortable 6-3, 6-3 win over eighth seed David Goffin. Edmund will face Denis Shapovalov, who came through his all-Canadian clash with Milos Raonic, 6-4, 6-4. Second seed Alexander Zverev beat Argentina's Leonardo Mayer and will now take on John Isner, who beat Pablo Cuevas.

Rafael Nadal breaks McEnroe record in Madrid but Del Potro, Sharapova, Halep crash out

British number one Kyle Edmund beat 12-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic in three sets to reach the third round of the Madrid Open.

Edmund, 23, beat the 30-year-old Serb 6-3 2-6 6-3 in one hour, 40 minutes and is now set to reach the world's top 20.

He will play David Goffin in the next round after the Belgian's 7-5 6-3 win over Robin Haase of the Netherlands.

Djokovic stormed through the second set on the Manolo Santana court but he spurned three break points early in the decider and Edmund pounced to win.

This was only the third time Edmund had beaten a player ranked as high as world number 12.&nbsp

"Kyle was just better in the decisive moments and I was a bit unlucky," Djokovic said afterwards. "Definitely Kyle is playing the best tennis of his life."&nbsp

Djokovic is by far his biggest scalp yet. 
&nbsp

Edmund, 23, beat the 30-year-old Serb 6-3 2-6 6-3 in one hour, 40 minutes

British number one Kyle Edmund beat 12-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic in three sets to reach the third round of the Madrid Open. Edmund, 23, beat the 30-year-old Serb 6-3 2-6 6-3 in one hour, 40 minutes and is now set to reach the world's top 20. He will play David Goffin in the next round after the Belgian's 7-5 6-3 win over Robin Haase of the Netherlands. Djokovic stormed through the second set on the Manolo Santana court but he spurned three break points early in the decider and Edmund pounced to win. This was only the third time Edmund had beaten a player ranked as high as world number 12. "Kyle was just better in the decisive moments and I was a bit unlucky," Djokovic said afterwards. "Definitely Kyle is playing the best tennis of his life." Djokovic is by far his biggest scalp yet.

Madrid Open: Novak Djokovic defeated by Britain's Kyle Edmund

World number one Simona Halep trounced an out of sorts Elise Mertens to reach the third round of the Madrid Open on Tuesday and stay on course for her third consecutive title at the event.

The Romanian top seed wrapped up victory in an hour and 11 minutes, hitting 23 winners and limiting herself to 18 unforced errors as she ended her Belgian opponent's 13-match winning streak.

Mertens, who has won titles in Morocco and Switzerland this year, previous form deserted her as she struggled to cope with Halep's combination of power, guile and relentless court coverage.

She found her feet at the start of the second set and fought gamely to the end, saving four match points while serving in the final game before netting a routine forehand to cough up a fifth and conceding the match with a tame double fault.

Halep will face Kristyna Pliskova in the last-16 after the Czech beat Spaniard Sara Sorribes Tormo 7-5 6-2.

Petra Kvitova, who is seeded 10th in Madrid, edged out wild card Monica Puig 6-3 7-6(8) in the day's early encounter and will face either Belarusian Aliaksandra Sasnovich or Estonia's Anett Kontaveit in the next round.

Kvitova dished out nine aces, but made an equal number of double faults as she held on to extend her winning streak to seven matches despite her opponent's aggressive brand of&nbsptennis.

The two went toe-to-toe as the advantage swung back and forth, but Puig paid the price for not getting enough first serves across the net and failing to take her opportunities when they arose, allowing the Czech to prevail.

With the score tied at 8-8 in the second-set tiebreak, Kvitova secured a match point with an ace, before sealing victory with a powerful forehand.

World number one Simona Halep trounced Elise Mertens to reach the third round of the Madrid Open

World number one Simona Halep trounced an out of sorts Elise Mertens to reach the third round of the Madrid Open on Tuesday and stay on course for her third consecutive title at the event. The Romanian top seed wrapped up victory in an hour and 11 minutes, hitting 23 winners and limiting herself to 18 unforced errors as she ended her Belgian opponent's 13-match winning streak. Mertens, who has won titles in Morocco and Switzerland this year, previous form deserted her as she struggled to cope with Halep's combination of power, guile and relentless court coverage. She found her feet at the start of the second set and fought gamely to the end, saving four match points while serving in the final game before netting a routine forehand to cough up a fifth and conceding the match with a tame double fault. Halep will face Kristyna Pliskova in the last-16 after the Czech beat Spaniard Sara Sorribes Tormo 7-5 6-2. Petra Kvitova, who is seeded 10th in Madrid, edged out wild card Monica Puig 6-3 7-6(8) in the day's early encounter and will face either Belarusian Aliaksandra Sasnovich or Estonia's Anett Kontaveit in the next round. Kvitova dished out nine aces, but made an equal number of double faults as she held on to extend her winning streak to seven matches despite her opponent's aggressive brand of&nbsptennis. The two went toe-to-toe as the advantage swung back and forth, but Puig paid the price for not getting enough first serves across the net and failing to take her opportunities when they arose, allowing the Czech to prevail. With the score tied at 8-8 in the second-set tiebreak, Kvitova secured a match point with an ace, before sealing victory with a powerful forehand.

Simona Halep eases past Mertens to enter 3rd round of Madrid Open

Rafael Nadal consolidated his flying start to the clay-court season by taking a record-extending fifth Madrid Open title on Sunday (May 14), battling past a determined Dominic Thiem to win 7-6(10-8) 6-4.

The Spaniard, who snapped a seven-match losing streak against Novak Djokovic to win their semi-final on Saturday, was given a much sterner test by Thiem than in last month&#39;s final of the Barcelona Open.

Nadal had easily beaten Thiem 6-4 6-1 in Barcelona but got an early scare when he was broken in Sunday&#39;s third game, soon falling 3-1 behind as the Austrian held.

Nadal broke back to win the sixth game and earned three set points at 5-4 but world number nine Thiem saved each one to eventually hold and force the tie-break.

The pair stayed neck and neck until Thiem lost his nerve and made two unforced errors in a row, gifting Nadal the set.

The 14-times grand-slam winner broke in the opening game of the second set and saved a break point in the next, maintaining a two-game advantage until a thrilling 10th game.

The 23-year-old Thiem earned two break points which Nadal saved to move within a point of the title.

Thiem resisted three championship points but Nadal seized the fourth with a drop shot to the back of the court to clinch his third consecutive clay-court crown, after winning in Monte Carlo and Barcelona in April, and the 72nd tournament win of his career.

&quot;The truth is I was up against an opponent who in the next five to 10 years will be fighting for the most important titles so I&#39;m very happy to have won; it was a very exciting game,&quot; Nadal told Television Espanola.

&quot;It was a very important final for both of us -- for him as it was the first in the Masters 1000 and for me it&#39;s always special to play here in Madrid in this unique tournament. You never know when it might be the last so I always try to enjoy it.&quot;

(Reuters)

The Spaniard was given a much sterner test by Thiem than in last month's final of the Barcelona Open

Rafael Nadal consolidated his flying start to the clay-court season by taking a record-extending fifth Madrid Open title on Sunday (May 14), battling past a determined Dominic Thiem to win 7-6(10-8) 6-4. The Spaniard, who snapped a seven-match losing streak against Novak Djokovic to win their semi-final on Saturday, was given a much sterner test by Thiem than in last month's final of the Barcelona Open. Nadal had easily beaten Thiem 6-4 6-1 in Barcelona but got an early scare when he was broken in Sunday's third game, soon falling 3-1 behind as the Austrian held. Nadal broke back to win the sixth game and earned three set points at 5-4 but world number nine Thiem saved each one to eventually hold and force the tie-break. The pair stayed neck and neck until Thiem lost his nerve and made two unforced errors in a row, gifting Nadal the set. The 14-times grand-slam winner broke in the opening game of the second set and saved a break point in the next, maintaining a two-game advantage until a thrilling 10th game. The 23-year-old Thiem earned two break points which Nadal saved to move within a point of the title. Thiem resisted three championship points but Nadal seized the fourth with a drop shot to the back of the court to clinch his third consecutive clay-court crown, after winning in Monte Carlo and Barcelona in April, and the 72nd tournament win of his career. "The truth is I was up against an opponent who in the next five to 10 years will be fighting for the most important titles so I'm very happy to have won; it was a very exciting game," Nadal told Television Espanola. "It was a very important final for both of us -- for him as it was the first in the Masters 1000 and for me it's always special to play here in Madrid in this unique tournament. You never know when it might be the last so I always try to enjoy it." (Reuters)

Nadal beats Thiem to win fifth Madrid title

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