Top-seeded Daniil Medvedev hobbled into the fourth round of the Miami Open on Sunday, defying crippling leg cramps to beat Australian Alexei Popyrin 7-6 (7/3), 6-7 (7/9), 6-4.

World number two Medvedev, increasingly hampered as the third set wore on in the heat and humidity of South Florida, nevertheless mustered the only service break of the third set on the way to a dramatic victory over 86th-ranked Popyrin in the ATP Masters and WTA hardcourt tournament.

"It's probably one of the sweetest victories in my career, because I was cramping like hell in the third set," Medvedev said.

"It was really painful," Medvedev said. "A few moments during rallies, I felt like my legs were not following me any more. The only thing I was thinking about was not to fall down because if I fell down, I don't think I'd be able to get up.

"There were moments where I just wanted to lie down and say, 'OK, it's over,' but I couldn't accept that."

Medvedev had appeared to be cruising to the finish line when he seized a 5-2 lead in the second set.

Popyrin held serve for 5-3, but since Medvedev hadn't faced a break point in the match another hold seemed a mere formality.

Instead, Medvedev was broken to love in a game that featured a double fault and three superb forehand winners from Popyrin -- including a stinging cross-court return on break point.

Popyrin promptly fell to 0-40 in the next game but an ace, a service winner and a forehand long from Medvedev erased three match points.

Medvedev saved two set points in the tiebreak before Popyrin, who won his first ATP title at Singapore in February, leveled the match with a forehand winner on his third set point.

The Russian, runner-up to Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open in February, will next face unseeded American Frances Tiafoe, who beat 16th-seeded Dusan Lajovic of Serbia 1-6, 7-5, 6-3.

John Isner, the 2018 champion and 2019 runner-up, booked a fourth-round spot with a 7-6 (7/5), 7-6 (7/5) victory over 11th-seeded Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime.

The match was a near-carbon copy of Isner's two-tiebreak win over Auger-Aliassime in the 2019 semi-finals. The US veteran, 35, next faces another familiar foe in Roberto Bautista Agut.

The seventh-seeded Spaniard beat Germany's Jan-Lennard Struff 4-6, 6-3, 6-2 to book a chance to avenge his 2019 quarter-final Miami loss to Isner.

<h2>- Osaka gets walkover -</h2>

Italian teenager Jannik Sinner out-lasted 14th-seeded Karen Khachanov 4-6, 7-6 (7/2), 6-4, in a physically taxing 2hr 50min battle.

"I'm very happy that I won today this tough match," said Sinner, who booked a last-16 meeting with Finland's Emil Ruusuvuori.

Ruusuvuori, who toppled third-seeded Alexander Zverev in the second round, beat Sweden's Mikael Ymer &nbsp;4-6, 6-1, 7-5.

In the women's draw, second-seeded Naomi Osaka reached the fourth round for the first time, without lifting a racquet, when scheduled opponent Nina Stojanovic withdrew with a right thigh injury.

The US and Australian Open champion, who could overtake number one Ashleigh Barty in the rankings with a title victory if the Australian fails to reach the final, next faces 16th-seeded Belgian Elise Mertens, who defeated Anett Kontaveit of Estonia 6-2, 0-6, 6-2.

Spain's Garbine Muguruza, a two-time Grand Slam winner who ended a two-year title drought in Dubai this month, dropped the first set on the way to a 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 victory over Anna Kalinskaya.

She will face eighth-seeded Canadian Bianca Andreescu, a 7-6 (7/4), 6-7 (2/7), 6-4 winner over American Amanda Anisimova.

Fourth-seeded American Sofia Kenin was eliminated by 27th seed Ons Jabeur of Tunisia 6-4, 4-6, 6-4.

Top-seeded Daniil Medvedev hobbled into the fourth round of the Miami Open on Sunday, defying crippling leg cramps to beat Australian Alexei Popyrin 7-6 (7/3), 6-7 (7/9), 6-4.

Top-seeded Daniil Medvedev hobbled into the fourth round of the Miami Open on Sunday, defying crippling leg cramps to beat Australian Alexei Popyrin 7-6 (7/3), 6-7 (7/9), 6-4. World number two Medvedev, increasingly hampered as the third set wore on in the heat and humidity of South Florida, nevertheless mustered the only service break of the third set on the way to a dramatic victory over 86th-ranked Popyrin in the ATP Masters and WTA hardcourt tournament. "It's probably one of the sweetest victories in my career, because I was cramping like hell in the third set," Medvedev said. "It was really painful," Medvedev said. "A few moments during rallies, I felt like my legs were not following me any more. The only thing I was thinking about was not to fall down because if I fell down, I don't think I'd be able to get up. "There were moments where I just wanted to lie down and say, 'OK, it's over,' but I couldn't accept that." Medvedev had appeared to be cruising to the finish line when he seized a 5-2 lead in the second set. Popyrin held serve for 5-3, but since Medvedev hadn't faced a break point in the match another hold seemed a mere formality. Instead, Medvedev was broken to love in a game that featured a double fault and three superb forehand winners from Popyrin -- including a stinging cross-court return on break point. Popyrin promptly fell to 0-40 in the next game but an ace, a service winner and a forehand long from Medvedev erased three match points. Medvedev saved two set points in the tiebreak before Popyrin, who won his first ATP title at Singapore in February, leveled the match with a forehand winner on his third set point. The Russian, runner-up to Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open in February, will next face unseeded American Frances Tiafoe, who beat 16th-seeded Dusan Lajovic of Serbia 1-6, 7-5, 6-3. John Isner, the 2018 champion and 2019 runner-up, booked a fourth-round spot with a 7-6 (7/5), 7-6 (7/5) victory over 11th-seeded Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime. The match was a near-carbon copy of Isner's two-tiebreak win over Auger-Aliassime in the 2019 semi-finals. The US veteran, 35, next faces another familiar foe in Roberto Bautista Agut. The seventh-seeded Spaniard beat Germany's Jan-Lennard Struff 4-6, 6-3, 6-2 to book a chance to avenge his 2019 quarter-final Miami loss to Isner. - Osaka gets walkover - Italian teenager Jannik Sinner out-lasted 14th-seeded Karen Khachanov 4-6, 7-6 (7/2), 6-4, in a physically taxing 2hr 50min battle. "I'm very happy that I won today this tough match," said Sinner, who booked a last-16 meeting with Finland's Emil Ruusuvuori. Ruusuvuori, who toppled third-seeded Alexander Zverev in the second round, beat Sweden's Mikael Ymer 4-6, 6-1, 7-5. In the women's draw, second-seeded Naomi Osaka reached the fourth round for the first time, without lifting a racquet, when scheduled opponent Nina Stojanovic withdrew with a right thigh injury. The US and Australian Open champion, who could overtake number one Ashleigh Barty in the rankings with a title victory if the Australian fails to reach the final, next faces 16th-seeded Belgian Elise Mertens, who defeated Anett Kontaveit of Estonia 6-2, 0-6, 6-2. Spain's Garbine Muguruza, a two-time Grand Slam winner who ended a two-year title drought in Dubai this month, dropped the first set on the way to a 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 victory over Anna Kalinskaya. She will face eighth-seeded Canadian Bianca Andreescu, a 7-6 (7/4), 6-7 (2/7), 6-4 winner over American Amanda Anisimova. Fourth-seeded American Sofia Kenin was eliminated by 27th seed Ons Jabeur of Tunisia 6-4, 4-6, 6-4.

Top-seeded Medvedev toils into Miami Open fourth round

The new world number two in men's tennis has a new look to go with his ranking, but Russian Daniil Medvedev is unsure of how long he will keep the moustache he's sporting at the Miami Open.

Medvedev replaced Rafa Nadal as No. 2 last week, becoming the first player outside the Spaniard, Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray to be ranked in the top two since Lleyton Hewitt in July 2005.

He arrived in Florida with his new moustache for the ATP Masters 1000 event, having been made top seed after No.1 Djokovic pulled out to spend more time with his family.

"Last year in the beginning of the year I was doing a photo shoot and they were shaving me for the photo shoot, and they just left the moustache for a few minutes," Medvedev told reporters after Friday's win over Taiwan's Yen-Hsun Lu.

"I was, like, 'it's not too bad'. It was a little bit different because they had special shavers and stuff. So I think it was looking better. Since that time I always thought, 'okay, one day I'm just going to do it for fun for one tournament or something like this'.

"So probably after Miami I'm going to shave them off, but for this tournament it's going to be like this and let's see what people say."

Last month Medvedev reached his second major final at the Australian Open on the back of a 20-match winning run that saw him pick up trophies at the Paris Masters, ATP Finals and team-based ATP Cup.

After going down in straight sets to Djokovic in Melbourne, Medvedev suffered a shock loss at Rotterdam before winning his 10th Tour title in Marseille.

Medvedev is 15-2 for the season and only fellow Russian Andrey Rublev, who is also at a career-best ranking of eighth, has more wins in 2021.

"I think it's great for both of us that we are doing so good. Russian tennis is definitely on the rise right now, and I like it," Medvedev said.

"We want people to talk more about tennis in Russia. That's what's happening right now. We want TV to show more tennis in Russia. That's one of the goals."

The new world number two in men's tennis has a new look to go with his ranking, but Russian Daniil Medvedev is unsure of how long he will keep the moustache he's sporting at the Miami Open.

The new world number two in men's tennis has a new look to go with his ranking, but Russian Daniil Medvedev is unsure of how long he will keep the moustache he's sporting at the Miami Open. Medvedev replaced Rafa Nadal as No. 2 last week, becoming the first player outside the Spaniard, Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray to be ranked in the top two since Lleyton Hewitt in July 2005. He arrived in Florida with his new moustache for the ATP Masters 1000 event, having been made top seed after No.1 Djokovic pulled out to spend more time with his family. "Last year in the beginning of the year I was doing a photo shoot and they were shaving me for the photo shoot, and they just left the moustache for a few minutes," Medvedev told reporters after Friday's win over Taiwan's Yen-Hsun Lu. "I was, like, 'it's not too bad'. It was a little bit different because they had special shavers and stuff. So I think it was looking better. Since that time I always thought, 'okay, one day I'm just going to do it for fun for one tournament or something like this'. "So probably after Miami I'm going to shave them off, but for this tournament it's going to be like this and let's see what people say." Last month Medvedev reached his second major final at the Australian Open on the back of a 20-match winning run that saw him pick up trophies at the Paris Masters, ATP Finals and team-based ATP Cup. After going down in straight sets to Djokovic in Melbourne, Medvedev suffered a shock loss at Rotterdam before winning his 10th Tour title in Marseille. Medvedev is 15-2 for the season and only fellow Russian Andrey Rublev, who is also at a career-best ranking of eighth, has more wins in 2021. "I think it's great for both of us that we are doing so good. Russian tennis is definitely on the rise right now, and I like it," Medvedev said. "We want people to talk more about tennis in Russia. That's what's happening right now. We want TV to show more tennis in Russia. That's one of the goals."

Daniil Medvedev says new moustache might not last beyond Miami

Australian ace Ashleigh Barty clawed her way back at the Miami Open after staring down a match point against Kristina Kucova on Thursday. The World No. 1 defeated Kucova 6-3 4-6 7-5 victory in the Australian's first match outside her home country in more than a year.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics-torch-relay-starts-in-fukushima-as-north-korea-launches-missiles-372983" hreflang="en">Olympics torch relay starts in Fukushima as North Korea launches missiles</a>

Barty was off to a great start, however, she lost the second set and was down to 5-2 in the third and was nearing an early exit in the Miami Open. However, the world number one bounced back and snatched a win at Hard Rock Stadium.

"My first bubble win," Barty said of the tournament, where a limited number of fans are allowed on the grounds.

"It is nice to be back on tour. It is nice to come back to a place here to Miami where we have had such good memories," said Barty, who won the event in 2019.

"It's a beautiful place to play tennis."

Barty enjoyed her match against Slovak's Kucova.&nbsp;

"Matches like that are extremely fulfilling," she said.

"Knowing that you have done the work over an extended period to get over the edge and get the result that you're after."

"No matter what the result, no matter what we're feeling, no matter the conditions, we just never give up," Barty said about her team.&nbsp;

The Aussie will be facing Grand Slam champion Jelena Ostapenko of Latvia on Saturday.

(Inputs from Reuters)

Australian ace Ashleigh Barty clawed her way back at the Miami Open after staring down a match point against Kristina Kucova on Thursday. The World No. 1 defeated Kucova 6-3 4-6 7-5 victory in the Australian's first match outside her home country in more than a year.

Australian ace Ashleigh Barty clawed her way back at the Miami Open after staring down a match point against Kristina Kucova on Thursday. The World No. 1 defeated Kucova 6-3 4-6 7-5 victory in the Australian's first match outside her home country in more than a year. ALSO READ: Olympics torch relay starts in Fukushima as North Korea launches missiles Barty was off to a great start, however, she lost the second set and was down to 5-2 in the third and was nearing an early exit in the Miami Open. However, the world number one bounced back and snatched a win at Hard Rock Stadium. "My first bubble win," Barty said of the tournament, where a limited number of fans are allowed on the grounds. "It is nice to be back on tour. It is nice to come back to a place here to Miami where we have had such good memories," said Barty, who won the event in 2019. "It's a beautiful place to play tennis." Barty enjoyed her match against Slovak's Kucova. "Matches like that are extremely fulfilling," she said. "Knowing that you have done the work over an extended period to get over the edge and get the result that you're after." "No matter what the result, no matter what we're feeling, no matter the conditions, we just never give up," Barty said about her team. The Aussie will be facing Grand Slam champion Jelena Ostapenko of Latvia on Saturday. (Inputs from Reuters)

'Never give up': Ash Barty claws back and beats Kristina Kucova at Miami Open

Venus Williams crashed out of the Miami Open on Tuesday, losing her first round game in straight sets to Zarina Diyas of Kazakhstan.

Diyas advanced to a second round meeting with Swiss 11th seed Belinda Bencic after completing a 6-2, 7-6 (12/10) victory in 1hr 28min on the Hard Rock Stadium's Grandstand court.

The round of 128 defeat is the 40-year-old Williams' earliest exit in Miami since she made her debut in the tournament in 1997.

After Diyas raced through the first set, Williams fought back in the second, breaking her Kazakh opponent's serve in the 12th game to force a tie break.

Williams saved three match points to extend the tie break but handed Diyas a fourth match point with a double fault which she converted to complete victory.

"I'm very happy with the win, especially against such a legend as Venus -- I looked up to her when I was little," the 27-year-old from Almaty said.

Diyas set up the victory behind an accurate service game, winning 61 percent of her first serve points, and varying play cleverly to pull Williams around the court.

Tuesday marked the start of main draw action at this year's tournament, which is being held after the Covid-19 pandemic wiped out the 2020 event.

A slew of top names have withdrawn from Miami in the build-up, with Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic all pulling out of the men's draw.&nbsp;

Britain's Andy Murray became the latest star to withdraw earlier Tuesday after suffering a groin injury.

Former world number one Serena Williams meanwhile pulled out of the women's tournament on Sunday.

Venus Williams crashed out of the Miami Open on Tuesday, losing her first round game in straight sets to Zarina Diyas of Kazakhstan. Diyas advanced to a second round meeting with Swiss 11th seed Belinda Bencic after completing a 6-2, 7-6 (12/10) victory in 1hr 28min on the Hard Rock Stadium's Grandstand court.

Venus Williams crashed out of the Miami Open on Tuesday, losing her first round game in straight sets to Zarina Diyas of Kazakhstan. Diyas advanced to a second round meeting with Swiss 11th seed Belinda Bencic after completing a 6-2, 7-6 (12/10) victory in 1hr 28min on the Hard Rock Stadium's Grandstand court. The round of 128 defeat is the 40-year-old Williams' earliest exit in Miami since she made her debut in the tournament in 1997. After Diyas raced through the first set, Williams fought back in the second, breaking her Kazakh opponent's serve in the 12th game to force a tie break. Williams saved three match points to extend the tie break but handed Diyas a fourth match point with a double fault which she converted to complete victory. "I'm very happy with the win, especially against such a legend as Venus -- I looked up to her when I was little," the 27-year-old from Almaty said. Diyas set up the victory behind an accurate service game, winning 61 percent of her first serve points, and varying play cleverly to pull Williams around the court. Tuesday marked the start of main draw action at this year's tournament, which is being held after the Covid-19 pandemic wiped out the 2020 event. A slew of top names have withdrawn from Miami in the build-up, with Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic all pulling out of the men's draw. Britain's Andy Murray became the latest star to withdraw earlier Tuesday after suffering a groin injury. Former world number one Serena Williams meanwhile pulled out of the women's tournament on Sunday.

Venus Williams dumped out of Miami Open first round

American Tennis star Serena Williams has pulled out of Miami Open as the 23-times Grand Slam champion is recovering from oral surgery, she said in a statement on Sunday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/zverev-beats-tsitsipas-to-win-mexican-open-in-acapulco-thriller-372078" hreflang="en">Zverev beats Tsitsipas to win Mexican Open in Acapulco thriller</a>

Williams has won the Open for a record eight times, but will not be participating this year. She joined the list of elite players who will not participate in&nbsp;the event.&nbsp;Novak Djokovic, Rafa Nadal and Roger Federer have also pulled out of the tournament.

"I am disappointed to withdraw from the Miami Open because of recent oral surgery," Williams said in a statement.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-rankireddy-and-shetty-knocked-out-of-all-england-doubles-371619" hreflang="en">India's Rankireddy and Shetty knocked out of All England doubles</a>

"Miami is a special tournament for me because it’s my home and I am sad I won’t be able to see the incredible fans this year, but I look forward to coming back soon."

Serena Williams had a promising run at the Australian Open, but she lost to Japan's Naomi Osaka in the finals.&nbsp;

American Tennis star Serena Williams has pulled out of Miami Open as the 23-times Grand Slam champion is recovering from oral surgery, she said in a statement on Sunday.

American Tennis star Serena Williams has pulled out of Miami Open as the 23-times Grand Slam champion is recovering from oral surgery, she said in a statement on Sunday. ALSO READ: Zverev beats Tsitsipas to win Mexican Open in Acapulco thriller Williams has won the Open for a record eight times, but will not be participating this year. She joined the list of elite players who will not participate in the event. Novak Djokovic, Rafa Nadal and Roger Federer have also pulled out of the tournament. "I am disappointed to withdraw from the Miami Open because of recent oral surgery," Williams said in a statement. ALSO READ: India's Rankireddy and Shetty knocked out of All England doubles "Miami is a special tournament for me because it’s my home and I am sad I won’t be able to see the incredible fans this year, but I look forward to coming back soon." Serena Williams had a promising run at the Australian Open, but she lost to Japan's Naomi Osaka in the finals.

'I am disappointed': Serena Williams withdraws from Miami Open

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic has confirmed that he will be returning to court at this month's Miami Open having recuperated from a muscle tear suffered during his Australian Open campaign.

The world number one sustained his injury during his third-round match in the Australian Open at Melbourne Park. However, the Serb returned and went on to win his record-extending ninth Australian Open title and his 18th Grand Slam.

On Monday, Novak will surpass Roger Federer's all-time record for most weeks as ATP world number one after being on top for 311th week.&nbsp;

According to his schedule posted on his website, Novak entered for the ATP Masters 1000 event on the hardcourts in Miami from March 22-April 4. It is the first of three events he will play in before heading to Europe for the claycourt swing ahead of the French Open in end of May.

Djokovic will then head to Monaco for the Monte-Carlo Masters, running from April 11-18, before returning home to Belgrade for the ATP 250 Serbia Open.

The Tour is returning to Belgrade for the first time since 2012, and the Serbia Open will be held at Djokovic's tennis centre from April 19-25.

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic has confirmed that he will be returning to court at this month's Miami Open having recuperated from a muscle tear suffered during his Australian Open campaign.

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic has confirmed that he will be returning to court at this month's Miami Open having recuperated from a muscle tear suffered during his Australian Open campaign. The world number one sustained his injury during his third-round match in the Australian Open at Melbourne Park. However, the Serb returned and went on to win his record-extending ninth Australian Open title and his 18th Grand Slam. On Monday, Novak will surpass Roger Federer's all-time record for most weeks as ATP world number one after being on top for 311th week. According to his schedule posted on his website, Novak entered for the ATP Masters 1000 event on the hardcourts in Miami from March 22-April 4. It is the first of three events he will play in before heading to Europe for the claycourt swing ahead of the French Open in end of May. Djokovic will then head to Monaco for the Monte-Carlo Masters, running from April 11-18, before returning home to Belgrade for the ATP 250 Serbia Open. The Tour is returning to Belgrade for the first time since 2012, and the Serbia Open will be held at Djokovic's tennis centre from April 19-25.

Serb ace Novak Djokovic set to return on court at Miami Open

Romanian tennis player Simona Halep has moved up to close on world number one Naomi Osaka of Japan in the latest updated Women's Tennis Association (WTA) rankings.

Halep who appeared in the Miami Open semi-final last week displaced Czech's Petra Kvitova after the latter lost to Ashleigh Barty of Australia in the final.

The Romanian with 5782 points has reduced the lead with number one Osaka, who has retained 6021 points, to attain number two spot.

Petra Kvitova (5645), Karolina Pliskova (5580) of Czech Republic and Germany's Angelique Kerber (5165), Dutch's Kiki Bertens (5050), Ukraine's Elina Svitolina (5020), Sloane Stephens of America (4287), Australia's Ashleigh Barty (4275) and Belarus' Aryna Sabalenka (3595) completed the top 10.

Bertens at number six obtained a new career-high ranking. She is now just one spot away to earn the highest ever ranking achieved by a Dutchwoman -- Betty Stove's world number five peak in 1977.&nbsp;

Barty at number nine has become the 10th player from her country to achieve the feat following her brilliant victory at the Miami Open.

Romanian tennis player Simona Halep has moved up to close on world number one Naomi Osaka of Japan in the latest updated Women's Tennis Association (WTA) rankings.

Romanian tennis player Simona Halep has moved up to close on world number one Naomi Osaka of Japan in the latest updated Women's Tennis Association (WTA) rankings. Halep who appeared in the Miami Open semi-final last week displaced Czech's Petra Kvitova after the latter lost to Ashleigh Barty of Australia in the final. The Romanian with 5782 points has reduced the lead with number one Osaka, who has retained 6021 points, to attain number two spot. Petra Kvitova (5645), Karolina Pliskova (5580) of Czech Republic and Germany's Angelique Kerber (5165), Dutch's Kiki Bertens (5050), Ukraine's Elina Svitolina (5020), Sloane Stephens of America (4287), Australia's Ashleigh Barty (4275) and Belarus' Aryna Sabalenka (3595) completed the top 10. Bertens at number six obtained a new career-high ranking. She is now just one spot away to earn the highest ever ranking achieved by a Dutchwoman -- Betty Stove's world number five peak in 1977. Barty at number nine has become the 10th player from her country to achieve the feat following her brilliant victory at the Miami Open.

WTA rankings: Simona Halep closes on world no.1 Naomi Osaka

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Roger+Federer">Roger Federer</a> defeated a hobbling John Isner 6-1 6-4 for his 101th career title at the Miami Open on Sunday.

Holder Isner struggled to continue late in the second set, hampered by pain in his left foot.

Federer, who won his fourth Miami title, broke Isner three times in a blazing opening set.

"It was a dream start, relaxing my nerves," the Swiss, 37, said in a courtside interview.

But the American fought back in the second, levelling the set at 3-3 and 4-4 before the pain made it difficult to continue. Federer took the final two games for the victory.

"What a week its been for me," said the fourth seed. "I'm just so happy right now. It's unbelievable. I played here in 1999 for the first time and here I am in 2019. It means a lot to me."

Only American Jimmy Connors, with 109, has more career singles titles than Federer.

Isner began to feel pain in the first set.

"I started feeling some pain on the top of my foot, and it didn't go away. It only kept getting worse," he said. "I have never had anything like this before, ever."

Master Federer

Even before the injury slowed the seventh-seeded American, Federer was the master, tempering Isner's big serves and winning 32 of 35 points on his own serve

"Roger was too good," Isner said. "In the first five games, I was fine. Nothing was bothering me. He was all over me."

Federer elected to receive to open the match and the strategy paid off as he broke Isner.

The American held on the third game but Federer took the next four.

Isner played much better in the second set but in the end the pain became too much, even with a medical examination after the seventh game.

"I knew at 3-4, whatever, I knew I wasn't going to win. I can tell you that much," said Isner.

"Which is a weird feeling, you know, being on serve in the finals of a match and knowing that I wasn't going to win."

Federer also sensed the American was in trouble.

"I knew it was going to be something that was not right. The way he was moving was not well," Federer said.

"But at the same time I have got to make him work hard, keep doing my things."

The title was Federer's second of the year, coming after his historic 100th win in Doha in February.

Roger Federer defeated a hobbling John Isner 6-1 6-4 for his 101th career title at the Miami Open on Sunday. Holder Isner struggled to continue late in the second set, hampered by pain in his left foot.

Roger Federer defeated a hobbling John Isner 6-1 6-4 for his 101th career title at the Miami Open on Sunday. Holder Isner struggled to continue late in the second set, hampered by pain in his left foot. Federer, who won his fourth Miami title, broke Isner three times in a blazing opening set. "It was a dream start, relaxing my nerves," the Swiss, 37, said in a courtside interview. But the American fought back in the second, levelling the set at 3-3 and 4-4 before the pain made it difficult to continue. Federer took the final two games for the victory. "What a week its been for me," said the fourth seed. "I'm just so happy right now. It's unbelievable. I played here in 1999 for the first time and here I am in 2019. It means a lot to me." Only American Jimmy Connors, with 109, has more career singles titles than Federer. Isner began to feel pain in the first set. "I started feeling some pain on the top of my foot, and it didn't go away. It only kept getting worse," he said. "I have never had anything like this before, ever." Master Federer Even before the injury slowed the seventh-seeded American, Federer was the master, tempering Isner's big serves and winning 32 of 35 points on his own serve "Roger was too good," Isner said. "In the first five games, I was fine. Nothing was bothering me. He was all over me." Federer elected to receive to open the match and the strategy paid off as he broke Isner. The American held on the third game but Federer took the next four. Isner played much better in the second set but in the end the pain became too much, even with a medical examination after the seventh game. "I knew at 3-4, whatever, I knew I wasn't going to win. I can tell you that much," said Isner. "Which is a weird feeling, you know, being on serve in the finals of a match and knowing that I wasn't going to win." Federer also sensed the American was in trouble. "I knew it was going to be something that was not right. The way he was moving was not well," Federer said. "But at the same time I have got to make him work hard, keep doing my things." The title was Federer's second of the year, coming after his historic 100th win in Doha in February.

Roger Federer downs injured John Isner in Miami for 101st career title

Ashleigh Barty defeated Karolina Pliskova 7-6(1), 6-3 on Saturday to win her maiden Miami Open title and become the first Australian woman since 2013 to reach the top 10 in the world rankings.

After dominating the first set tiebreak, Barty broke the big-serving Pliskova in a 12-minute game to open the second set.

From there on the fatigued Czech, whose semi-final win over Simona Halep finished after 1 am local time earlier on Saturday due to rain delays, put up little resistance.

Barty pumped her fists when Pliskova sent a forehand long on match point to hand the 22-year-old the biggest win of her career, which includes a $1.3 million pay check.

Barty said the key to the match was extending rallies on the warm day in Southern Florida.

"It was important for me to try to make it physical," Barty, the first Australian to win the Miami Open singles title, said in an on-court interview.

"Kaja has the ability to really hit you off the court and take it away from you so I knew I had to have my running shoes on today to try and make as many balls as possible."

Barty fired 15 aces, with Pliskova barely making an effort to return some of them.

"I tried to make the most of it," she said of playing an exhausted opponent.

"You don't get these opportunities every single day and it was important for me to continue and try to do the right things and enjoy the moment as well."

Pliskova, who will rise to world number four on Monday, praised her conqueror.

"I'll make it quick because I'm very tired and it was a long two weeks," the 27-year-old said.

"Congrats to Ashleigh. She played incredible all week, all the matches were close and especially today I thought she came up with some good tennis."

The win capped a memorable week for the 2011 junior Wimbledon champion, who took a break from tennis in 2014 to play professional cricket for the Brisbane Heat.

Barty, the 2018 US&nbsp;Open women's doubles champion, is the first Australian women since Samantha Stosur to crack the WTA's singles top 10.

Ashleigh Barty defeated Karolina Pliskova 7-6(1), 6-3 on Saturday to win her maiden Miami Open title and become the first Australian woman since 2013 to reach the top 10 in the world rankings.

Ashleigh Barty defeated Karolina Pliskova 7-6(1), 6-3 on Saturday to win her maiden Miami Open title and become the first Australian woman since 2013 to reach the top 10 in the world rankings. After dominating the first set tiebreak, Barty broke the big-serving Pliskova in a 12-minute game to open the second set. From there on the fatigued Czech, whose semi-final win over Simona Halep finished after 1 am local time earlier on Saturday due to rain delays, put up little resistance. Barty pumped her fists when Pliskova sent a forehand long on match point to hand the 22-year-old the biggest win of her career, which includes a $1.3 million pay check. Barty said the key to the match was extending rallies on the warm day in Southern Florida. "It was important for me to try to make it physical," Barty, the first Australian to win the Miami Open singles title, said in an on-court interview. "Kaja has the ability to really hit you off the court and take it away from you so I knew I had to have my running shoes on today to try and make as many balls as possible." Barty fired 15 aces, with Pliskova barely making an effort to return some of them. "I tried to make the most of it," she said of playing an exhausted opponent. "You don't get these opportunities every single day and it was important for me to continue and try to do the right things and enjoy the moment as well." Pliskova, who will rise to world number four on Monday, praised her conqueror. "I'll make it quick because I'm very tired and it was a long two weeks," the 27-year-old said. "Congrats to Ashleigh. She played incredible all week, all the matches were close and especially today I thought she came up with some good tennis." The win capped a memorable week for the 2011 junior Wimbledon champion, who took a break from tennis in 2014 to play professional cricket for the Brisbane Heat. Barty, the 2018 US Open women's doubles champion, is the first Australian women since Samantha Stosur to crack the WTA's singles top 10.

Ashleigh Barty beats Karolina Pliskova to win maiden Miami Open title

Roger Federer cruised into his fifth Miami Open final with an impressive 6-2, 6-4 victory against Canadian teenager Denis Shapovalov on Friday.

Federer was dominant in service and broke the 19-year-old three times to set up a final with American John Isner, who beat 18-year-old Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime 7-6(3), 7-6(4).

Federer took control of his semi-final early, breaking Shapovalov in the third game as his young opponent shanked a backhand.

Federer broke again in the third game of the second set and served his way into the final against defending champion Isner, who is yet to drop a set in the tournament this year.

Isner, however, had to battle back in both sets against the 18-year-old Canadian, who led 5-3 in each set but was unable to seal the win.

"For sure (it was) nerves," said Auger-Aliassime, the youngest men's semi-finalist in the tournament's 35-year history. "It's like I caught a virus or something. I don't know. I couldn't put a second serve anymore.

"Even the first serve, if you put it in, you don't have to hit the second serve. That's just very tough to swallow."

Auger-Aliassime had appeared unbothered by being on the big stage against the crowd favourite playing attacking, aggressive tennis that rewarded him with the early break in each set.

Yet serving for the set, the 18-year-old's inexperience and nerves were exposed when he produced three of his seven double faults and opened the door for the 33-year-old American who went on to take the first tiebreak 7-3.

Auger-Aliassime regrouped and was on the attack again in the second, grabbing the early break to nose in front 4-2.

Again serving for the set at 5-3, he let Isner back in the contest as the American got back on serve with the help of yet another Auger-Aliassime double fault.

While Auger-Aliassime was misfiring, Isner's serve was booming, as he blasted 21 aces past his opponent.

"I think it (experience) may have helped a little bit," said Isner.

"But you see a lot of times where someone can have all the experience in the world or some teams can have all the experience in the world and they don't come through against an inexperienced opponent.

"Maybe he was a little bit fatigued because he came through qualifying. So could have been a little bit of inexperience and maybe a little bit of fatigue, also."

Roger Federer cruised into his fifth Miami Open final with an impressive 6-2, 6-4 victory against Canadian teenager Denis Shapovalov on Friday. Federer was dominant in service and broke the 19-year-old three times to set up a final with American John Isner, who beat 18-year-old Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime 7-6(3), 7-6(4).

Roger Federer cruised into his fifth Miami Open final with an impressive 6-2, 6-4 victory against Canadian teenager Denis Shapovalov on Friday. Federer was dominant in service and broke the 19-year-old three times to set up a final with American John Isner, who beat 18-year-old Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime 7-6(3), 7-6(4). Federer took control of his semi-final early, breaking Shapovalov in the third game as his young opponent shanked a backhand. Federer broke again in the third game of the second set and served his way into the final against defending champion Isner, who is yet to drop a set in the tournament this year. Isner, however, had to battle back in both sets against the 18-year-old Canadian, who led 5-3 in each set but was unable to seal the win. "For sure (it was) nerves," said Auger-Aliassime, the youngest men's semi-finalist in the tournament's 35-year history. "It's like I caught a virus or something. I don't know. I couldn't put a second serve anymore. "Even the first serve, if you put it in, you don't have to hit the second serve. That's just very tough to swallow." Auger-Aliassime had appeared unbothered by being on the big stage against the crowd favourite playing attacking, aggressive tennis that rewarded him with the early break in each set. Yet serving for the set, the 18-year-old's inexperience and nerves were exposed when he produced three of his seven double faults and opened the door for the 33-year-old American who went on to take the first tiebreak 7-3. Auger-Aliassime regrouped and was on the attack again in the second, grabbing the early break to nose in front 4-2. Again serving for the set at 5-3, he let Isner back in the contest as the American got back on serve with the help of yet another Auger-Aliassime double fault. While Auger-Aliassime was misfiring, Isner's serve was booming, as he blasted 21 aces past his opponent. "I think it (experience) may have helped a little bit," said Isner. "But you see a lot of times where someone can have all the experience in the world or some teams can have all the experience in the world and they don't come through against an inexperienced opponent. "Maybe he was a little bit fatigued because he came through qualifying. So could have been a little bit of inexperience and maybe a little bit of fatigue, also."

Miami Open: Roger Federer to face John Isner in final

Former world number one <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/miami-open-roger-federer-to-face-john-isner-in-final-206659">Roger Federer </a>said that he is excited to play American John Isner in the finals of Miami Open and compared the summit clash against the big-serving Isner to a goalkeeper in a penalty shoot-out.&nbsp;

Switzerland's star Federer said, "I know what to expect, that he will not miss many serves. He's got an amazing serve, one of the best in the game forever so, it's really hard to play against him."

"I honestly love big servers to watch them if they're gonna ace every second or third point for me that's exciting because it's like a penalty shootout in soccer."

"For me I'll be the goalie on Sunday. I'll try my very best and try to get as many balls back as possible and just hope we'll have a good match."

"I'm excited to play John because he really had a tough match against Felix today that was awesome performance by him."&nbsp;

Three-time Miami champion Federer produced a 6-2, 6-4 masterclass at Hard Rock Stadium against teenager Denis Shapovalov in the semi-final.&nbsp;

Federer took control of his semi-final early, breaking Shapovalov in the third game as his young opponent shanked a backhand.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
🇨🇭 <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> has his strategy set for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MiamiOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MiamiOpen</a> final.
— ATP Tour (@ATP_Tour) <a href="https://twitter.com/ATP_Tour/status/1111841731086028801?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Federer broke again in the third game of the second set and served his way into the final against defending champion Isner, who is yet to drop a set in the tournament this year.&nbsp;

Former world number one Roger Federer said that he is excited to play American John Isner in the finals of Miami Open and compared the summit clash against the big-serving Isner to a goalkeeper in a penalty shoot-out.

Former world number one Roger Federer said that he is excited to play American John Isner in the finals of Miami Open and compared the summit clash against the big-serving Isner to a goalkeeper in a penalty shoot-out. Switzerland's star Federer said, "I know what to expect, that he will not miss many serves. He's got an amazing serve, one of the best in the game forever so, it's really hard to play against him." "I honestly love big servers to watch them if they're gonna ace every second or third point for me that's exciting because it's like a penalty shootout in soccer." "For me I'll be the goalie on Sunday. I'll try my very best and try to get as many balls back as possible and just hope we'll have a good match." "I'm excited to play John because he really had a tough match against Felix today that was awesome performance by him." Three-time Miami champion Federer produced a 6-2, 6-4 masterclass at Hard Rock Stadium against teenager Denis Shapovalov in the semi-final. Federer took control of his semi-final early, breaking Shapovalov in the third game as his young opponent shanked a backhand. 🇨🇭 @rogerfederer has his strategy set for the #MiamiOpen final. — ATP Tour (@ATP_Tour) March 30, 2019 × Federer broke again in the third game of the second set and served his way into the final against defending champion Isner, who is yet to drop a set in the tournament this year.

Roger Federer: 'Will be a goalie' against John Isner in Miami Open final

Karolina Pliskova reached the Miami Open final with an emphatic 7-5, 6-1 win over second seed Simona Halep in soggy South Florida on Thursday night.

The Czech fifth seed will meet Ashleigh Barty in Saturday's final, after the 12th seeded Australian beat Estonia's Anett Kontaveit 6-3, 6-3 in the other semi-final on a day that tested the patience with a seemingly endless number of rain delays.

Pliskova and Romanian Halep played a tight first set, which Pliskova eventually clinched with some outstanding court coverage as she used her long reach to chase down a series of shots by Halep that would have been winners against many a player.

Suitably buoyed, Pliskova raced through the second set and was on the brink of victory, up 5-0 when another shower sent the players to the locker room as the clock struck midnight.

They eventually returned an hour later for Pliskova to close it out in a near-empty arena.

Earlier, Barty was forced to wait out an hour-long rain delay before her match and when it started she and 21st seed Kontaveit were only on the court for about five minutes before weather halted play again.

They returned about two-and-a-half hours later to play one more game and then headed back to the locker room for a third rain delay, this time for two hours.

Barty finally secured the win with an ace on her second match point, six-and-a-half hours after the original scheduled start.

"I have been here for 12 hours today, but really happy with the way I was able to come out after the rain delays and kind of get on the front foot pretty early," said Barty, 22, who has three career titles.

"I did the best with what I had and was able to get out of some tight service games at crucial times and get a bit of a roll on."

Karolina Pliskova reached the Miami Open final with an emphatic 7-5, 6-1 win over second seed Simona Halep in soggy South Florida on Thursday night. The Czech fifth seed will meet Ashleigh Barty in Saturday's final, after the 12th seeded Australian beat Estonia's Anett Kontaveit 6-3, 6-3 in the other semi-final on a day that tested the patience with a seemingly endless number of rain delays.

Karolina Pliskova reached the Miami Open final with an emphatic 7-5, 6-1 win over second seed Simona Halep in soggy South Florida on Thursday night. The Czech fifth seed will meet Ashleigh Barty in Saturday's final, after the 12th seeded Australian beat Estonia's Anett Kontaveit 6-3, 6-3 in the other semi-final on a day that tested the patience with a seemingly endless number of rain delays. Pliskova and Romanian Halep played a tight first set, which Pliskova eventually clinched with some outstanding court coverage as she used her long reach to chase down a series of shots by Halep that would have been winners against many a player. Suitably buoyed, Pliskova raced through the second set and was on the brink of victory, up 5-0 when another shower sent the players to the locker room as the clock struck midnight. They eventually returned an hour later for Pliskova to close it out in a near-empty arena. Earlier, Barty was forced to wait out an hour-long rain delay before her match and when it started she and 21st seed Kontaveit were only on the court for about five minutes before weather halted play again. They returned about two-and-a-half hours later to play one more game and then headed back to the locker room for a third rain delay, this time for two hours. Barty finally secured the win with an ace on her second match point, six-and-a-half hours after the original scheduled start. "I have been here for 12 hours today, but really happy with the way I was able to come out after the rain delays and kind of get on the front foot pretty early," said Barty, 22, who has three career titles. "I did the best with what I had and was able to get out of some tight service games at crucial times and get a bit of a roll on."

Miami Open: Czech Karolina Pliskova and Aussie Ashleigh Barty to meet in final

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Roger+Federer">Roger Federer</a> gained a measure of revenge against Wimbledon nemesis Kevin Anderson, beating the South African 6-0, 6-4 at the Miami Open on Thursday to set up a mouthwatering semi-final against a player barely half his age.

Federer will have little time to rest his 37-year-old legs before his clash against 19-year-old Denis Shapovalov, the highly regarded Canadian talent tipped for future Grand Slam success.

Twentieth seed Shapovalov won his battle of 'Next Gen' hustlers 6-7(5), 6-4, 6-2 against American Frances Tiafoe.

Shapovalov is one of two Canadian teenagers in the semis, with 18-year-old Felix Auger-Aliassime to play defending champion John Isner in the daytime, before Federer and Shapovalov face off under lights.

Federer has won 100 career titles, 100 more than Shapovalov, and was looking forward to the pair's first match-up.

"He's one of the big shotmakers in the game. I love his forehand," Federer said.

"It's an exciting draw for John and for myself here, playing these young guys. They are not just young, but they are very good, as well."

The Swiss raced through the first set against Anderson, the man who came from two sets down to beat him in a quarter-final marathon at Wimbledon last year.

Anderson took nine games to get on the board but eventually found his groove and broke back with a series of return winners to level at 3-3 in the second set.

Federer struck the decisive blow at 4-4, however, winning a marathon game of 22 points and clinching the break with a fortuitous backhand return down the line.

"I hit it late and that's why it went short," he said of the shot. "That's not what I wanted to do but maybe what it took. I got a bit lucky there at the end."

Canadian tennis on the rise

Shapovalov broke Tiafoe four times and could hardly stop smiling at the prospect of playing Federer.

"It's definitely a matchup I have been looking forward to my whole life," he said.

"It's going to be a dream come true to play him in such a big event. The stakes are so high, semi-final of a Masters 1000 against your idol, it's just a dream come true."

Shapovalov also spoke about what appears to be a bright future for Canadian tennis.

He and Auger-Aliassime are in the Miami semis less than two weeks after 18-year-old Bianca Andreescu won the WTA tournament at Indian Wells.

"It's kind of crazy to share this with Felix," Shapovalov said.

"I was just thinking in the locker room how far back we go, from the national groupings when we were eight and nine years old, so it's so crazy to see how far we have come.

"It's really great to see him doing well. Honestly, it's not a shocker for me that he's gone this far, that he's doing so well."

Roger Federer gained a measure of revenge against Wimbledon nemesis Kevin Anderson, beating the South African 6-0, 6-4 at the Miami Open on Thursday to set up a mouthwatering semi-final against a player barely half his age.

Roger Federer gained a measure of revenge against Wimbledon nemesis Kevin Anderson, beating the South African 6-0, 6-4 at the Miami Open on Thursday to set up a mouthwatering semi-final against a player barely half his age. Federer will have little time to rest his 37-year-old legs before his clash against 19-year-old Denis Shapovalov, the highly regarded Canadian talent tipped for future Grand Slam success. Twentieth seed Shapovalov won his battle of 'Next Gen' hustlers 6-7(5), 6-4, 6-2 against American Frances Tiafoe. Shapovalov is one of two Canadian teenagers in the semis, with 18-year-old Felix Auger-Aliassime to play defending champion John Isner in the daytime, before Federer and Shapovalov face off under lights. Federer has won 100 career titles, 100 more than Shapovalov, and was looking forward to the pair's first match-up. "He's one of the big shotmakers in the game. I love his forehand," Federer said. "It's an exciting draw for John and for myself here, playing these young guys. They are not just young, but they are very good, as well." The Swiss raced through the first set against Anderson, the man who came from two sets down to beat him in a quarter-final marathon at Wimbledon last year. Anderson took nine games to get on the board but eventually found his groove and broke back with a series of return winners to level at 3-3 in the second set. Federer struck the decisive blow at 4-4, however, winning a marathon game of 22 points and clinching the break with a fortuitous backhand return down the line. "I hit it late and that's why it went short," he said of the shot. "That's not what I wanted to do but maybe what it took. I got a bit lucky there at the end." Canadian tennis on the rise Shapovalov broke Tiafoe four times and could hardly stop smiling at the prospect of playing Federer. "It's definitely a matchup I have been looking forward to my whole life," he said. "It's going to be a dream come true to play him in such a big event. The stakes are so high, semi-final of a Masters 1000 against your idol, it's just a dream come true." Shapovalov also spoke about what appears to be a bright future for Canadian tennis. He and Auger-Aliassime are in the Miami semis less than two weeks after 18-year-old Bianca Andreescu won the WTA tournament at Indian Wells. "It's kind of crazy to share this with Felix," Shapovalov said. "I was just thinking in the locker room how far back we go, from the national groupings when we were eight and nine years old, so it's so crazy to see how far we have come. "It's really great to see him doing well. Honestly, it's not a shocker for me that he's gone this far, that he's doing so well."

Miami Open: Roger Federer beats Kevin Anderson to set up Denis Shapovalov clash

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Simona+Halep">Simona Halep</a> overcame a hiccup in the second set to secure a 6-4, 7-5 Miami Open quarter-final victory over China's Wang Qiang on Wednesday, putting the Romanian one win away from reclaiming the world's top ranking from Naomi Osaka.

Standing in her way will be <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Karolina+Pliskova">Karolina Pliskova</a>, who endured a blip of her own in the second set before defeating Marketa Vondrousova 6-3, 6-4 in the evening session.

Halep broke Wang three times to race into a 4-1 lead before closing out the first set when she cut off the angle on a short forehand and blasted a winner into the open court.

But Wang came out firing in the second set, breaking Halep three times and holding to love in back-to-back service games to build a 5-1 lead.

The second seed stormed back but Wang nearly forced a third set when she quickly jumped out to 0-40 in the 10th game, only for the Romanian's confident net play to get her out of the jam.

Halep then went on to wrap up the win over 18th-seeded Wang in 89 minutes and match her best effort in Miami, which came in 2015 when she lost to Serena Williams in the semis.

"Playing again in the semi-finals is going to be a big challenge. And maybe I can do my best result here and play in the final," Halep said on court. "It's going to be a big match in the next round."

Halep is the highest seed left in the draw following Osaka's third-round exit and she said that while she is aware she can reclaim top spot in the rankings it is not something she is overly concerned about.

"If I play well, if I play my best tennis, I have a better chance to become number one again," said Halep. "But it's not in my mind. I just want to find my rhythm, to find my level and just play as good as possible."

Halep will have her hands full when she battles the towering Pliskova on Thursday.

The Czech won six of the final seven games against the aggressive Vondrousova thanks to solid defence, an overpowering forehand and booming serve.

The fifth seed, who lost her last meeting with Halep, a three-setter at last month's Fed Cup, could potentially reach world number two by winning the tournament.

Recent form does not bode well for her, however.

"I practiced with Simona before the Miami Open and I lost 0-6," she said.

"So it can only get better."

Simona Halep overcame a hiccup in the second set to secure a 6-4, 7-5 Miami Open quarter-final victory over China's Wang Qiang on Wednesday, putting the Romanian one win away from reclaiming the world's top ranking from Naomi Osaka.

Simona Halep overcame a hiccup in the second set to secure a 6-4, 7-5 Miami Open quarter-final victory over China's Wang Qiang on Wednesday, putting the Romanian one win away from reclaiming the world's top ranking from Naomi Osaka. Standing in her way will be Karolina Pliskova, who endured a blip of her own in the second set before defeating Marketa Vondrousova 6-3, 6-4 in the evening session. Halep broke Wang three times to race into a 4-1 lead before closing out the first set when she cut off the angle on a short forehand and blasted a winner into the open court. But Wang came out firing in the second set, breaking Halep three times and holding to love in back-to-back service games to build a 5-1 lead. The second seed stormed back but Wang nearly forced a third set when she quickly jumped out to 0-40 in the 10th game, only for the Romanian's confident net play to get her out of the jam. Halep then went on to wrap up the win over 18th-seeded Wang in 89 minutes and match her best effort in Miami, which came in 2015 when she lost to Serena Williams in the semis. "Playing again in the semi-finals is going to be a big challenge. And maybe I can do my best result here and play in the final," Halep said on court. "It's going to be a big match in the next round." Halep is the highest seed left in the draw following Osaka's third-round exit and she said that while she is aware she can reclaim top spot in the rankings it is not something she is overly concerned about. "If I play well, if I play my best tennis, I have a better chance to become number one again," said Halep. "But it's not in my mind. I just want to find my rhythm, to find my level and just play as good as possible." Halep will have her hands full when she battles the towering Pliskova on Thursday. The Czech won six of the final seven games against the aggressive Vondrousova thanks to solid defence, an overpowering forehand and booming serve. The fifth seed, who lost her last meeting with Halep, a three-setter at last month's Fed Cup, could potentially reach world number two by winning the tournament. Recent form does not bode well for her, however. "I practiced with Simona before the Miami Open and I lost 0-6," she said. "So it can only get better."

Miami Open: Simona Halep sees off Wang Qiang, will face Karolina Pliskova in semis

A clinical Roger Federer took a confident step towards a fourth Miami Open title on Wednesday, easing past 13th-seeded Russian Daniil Medvedev 6-4, 6-2 to book his spot in the quarter-finals.

Federer, a winner of 100 career titles, can look back on dozens of brilliant performances and the Swiss maestro could add his ruthless fourth-round win over the red hot Russian to that list.

With 17 match wins, no player has had more success this year than the lanky Russian but Medvedev had no answers for a rampaging Federer, who needed just 61 minutes to reach the last eight, where he will take on towering sixth-seeded South African Kevin Anderson.

"There were really long rallies, tactical points. The big points went my way and that was the difference," said Federer.

"I'm serving great this week and hope I can keep it up in the next round."

The match got off to a routine start until Federer took control.

With Medvedev 4-3 up in the first, the 20-times grand slam champion swept the next five games to take the opener and a 2-0 lead in the second.

Medvedev halted the bleeding with a hold at 2-1 but there was no stopping the fourth-seeded Federer who claimed a second break to go up 5-2 and then had an easy hold to seal a business-like victory.

The Russian could not convert any of his three breakpoints, while Federer took all three of his.

Federer's fourth-round contest had been scheduled for Tuesday but was moved due to rain, giving the 37-year-old Swiss little time to recover before facing the hard-hitting Anderson, who was a 7-5 winner over Australian Jordan Thompson.

Defending champion John Isner came out on the winning side of two tie-breakers in his afternoon battle with Roberto Bautista Agut to advance 7-6(1), 7-6(5) to the semi-finals of the tournament, where he has yet to drop a set.

The seventh-seeded American thumped 25 aces to see off the Spaniard and will next face either 18-year-old Canadian Felix Auger Aliassime or defensive baseliner Borna Coric, who play their quarter-final in the night session on Wednesday.

A clinical Roger Federer took a confident step towards a fourth Miami Open title on Wednesday, easing past 13th-seeded Russian Daniil Medvedev 6-4, 6-2 to book his spot in the quarter-finals.

A clinical Roger Federer took a confident step towards a fourth Miami Open title on Wednesday, easing past 13th-seeded Russian Daniil Medvedev 6-4, 6-2 to book his spot in the quarter-finals. Federer, a winner of 100 career titles, can look back on dozens of brilliant performances and the Swiss maestro could add his ruthless fourth-round win over the red hot Russian to that list. With 17 match wins, no player has had more success this year than the lanky Russian but Medvedev had no answers for a rampaging Federer, who needed just 61 minutes to reach the last eight, where he will take on towering sixth-seeded South African Kevin Anderson. "There were really long rallies, tactical points. The big points went my way and that was the difference," said Federer. "I'm serving great this week and hope I can keep it up in the next round." The match got off to a routine start until Federer took control. With Medvedev 4-3 up in the first, the 20-times grand slam champion swept the next five games to take the opener and a 2-0 lead in the second. Medvedev halted the bleeding with a hold at 2-1 but there was no stopping the fourth-seeded Federer who claimed a second break to go up 5-2 and then had an easy hold to seal a business-like victory. The Russian could not convert any of his three breakpoints, while Federer took all three of his. Federer's fourth-round contest had been scheduled for Tuesday but was moved due to rain, giving the 37-year-old Swiss little time to recover before facing the hard-hitting Anderson, who was a 7-5 winner over Australian Jordan Thompson. Defending champion John Isner came out on the winning side of two tie-breakers in his afternoon battle with Roberto Bautista Agut to advance 7-6(1), 7-6(5) to the semi-finals of the tournament, where he has yet to drop a set. The seventh-seeded American thumped 25 aces to see off the Spaniard and will next face either 18-year-old Canadian Felix Auger Aliassime or defensive baseliner Borna Coric, who play their quarter-final in the night session on Wednesday.

Miami Open: Roger Federer eases past Daniil Medvedev into quarters

A tenacious Roberto Bautista Agut battled back to beat world number one Novak Djokovic 1-6 7-5 6-3 and advance to the quarter-finals of the Miami Open on Tuesday as the Spaniard claimed his second win over the Serb this year.

Six-times champion Djokovic blasted the 22nd seed off the court in the opening set but Bautista Agut grew more aggressive in the second, stepping in to take his second serves early and baiting his opponent into extended rallies.

The tide turned in Bautista Agut's favour in the third when, after both players exchanged service breaks, an uncharacteristically sloppy Djokovic sent a backhand wide to fall behind 4-2.

Three games later Bautista Agut smacked a forehand winner down the line to seal the win, which was reminiscent of Bautista Agut's come-from-behind victory over Djokovic in the semi-finals of the Qatar Open in January.

"The key of the match was at the beginning of the second set," Bautista Agut said after his latest victory. "I played more aggressive."

The loss capped a disappointing trip through the United States for Djokovic, who fell in straight sets to Philipp Kohlschreiber in the third round of the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells earlier this month.

The Serb said he would "rethink" how he prepared for the early-season American swing next year.

"I just had way too many things off the court," he said. "I guess that affected me a little bit on the court.

"I didn't feel my best health-wise, as well, in Indian Wells and here. You know, still rusty, but, hey, look, you learn that's life."

Djokovic was eliminated before an evening rain delay pushed Roger Federer's match against Russia's Daniil Medvedev back to Wednesday.

Next up for Bautista Agut is a quarter-final date with defending champion John Isner, who was a 7-6(5) 7-6(3) winner over Britain's Kyle Edmund earlier in the day.

KYRGIOS IN CONTROVERSY AGAIN

Nick Kyrgios continued to mix the obscene with the sublime as he bowed out of the tournament at the hands of Borna Coric.

The Australian produced perhaps the shot of the tournament, an audacious 'tweener' that caught a flat-footed Coric off guard early in his 4-6 6-3 6-2 loss to the 11th seed.

Kyrgios was later given a point penalty for an audible obscenity, apparently directed at a spectator, that put him down a double break in the third.

Kyrgios said he did not regret having a go at the spectator.

"I'm playing for two hours and 20 minutes, and a guy yells at me, like 'play some tennis'," Kyrgios explained.

"I'm not going to take it... Probably not needed, but at that time, when you're competing and in the heat of the moment, it's probably not what you want to hear.

"If I swear or something, then I'll lose the point. That's why I didn't argue it. I just walked to my chair."

Kyrgios has made headlines all week in Miami for his controversial underhanded serves, a verbal spat with another spectator who was heckling him, and for firing off an expletive-laden rant at an umpire during a doubles match.

Up next for Coric will be a clash with 18-year-old Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime, who beat Georgian 17th seed Nikoloz Basilashvili 7-6(4) 6-4 to become the first qualifier to reach the last eight in Miami since Guillermo Canas in 2007.

Canadian teenager Denis Shapovalov advanced to the quarter-finals with a 4-6 6-3 7-6(3) win over Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas, the tournament's eighth seed.

In a late night match that lasted over two hours and finished at 1:40 AM local time, Shapovalov claimed only his second career win over an opponent in the top 10 in a 'Next Gen' battle.

With compatriot Auger-Aliassime also in the quarters, it is the first time in 12 years that two teenagers have reached this stage of the tournament, after Andy Murray and Djokovic accomplished the feat as 19-year-olds in 2007.

Shapovalov will take on American Frances Tiafoe in the next round.

A tenacious Roberto Bautista Agut battled back to beat world number one Novak Djokovic 1-6 7-5 6-3 and advance to the quarter-finals of the Miami Open on Tuesday as the Spaniard claimed his second win over the Serb this year.

A tenacious Roberto Bautista Agut battled back to beat world number one Novak Djokovic 1-6 7-5 6-3 and advance to the quarter-finals of the Miami Open on Tuesday as the Spaniard claimed his second win over the Serb this year. Six-times champion Djokovic blasted the 22nd seed off the court in the opening set but Bautista Agut grew more aggressive in the second, stepping in to take his second serves early and baiting his opponent into extended rallies. The tide turned in Bautista Agut's favour in the third when, after both players exchanged service breaks, an uncharacteristically sloppy Djokovic sent a backhand wide to fall behind 4-2. Three games later Bautista Agut smacked a forehand winner down the line to seal the win, which was reminiscent of Bautista Agut's come-from-behind victory over Djokovic in the semi-finals of the Qatar Open in January. "The key of the match was at the beginning of the second set," Bautista Agut said after his latest victory. "I played more aggressive." The loss capped a disappointing trip through the United States for Djokovic, who fell in straight sets to Philipp Kohlschreiber in the third round of the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells earlier this month. The Serb said he would "rethink" how he prepared for the early-season American swing next year. "I just had way too many things off the court," he said. "I guess that affected me a little bit on the court. "I didn't feel my best health-wise, as well, in Indian Wells and here. You know, still rusty, but, hey, look, you learn that's life." Djokovic was eliminated before an evening rain delay pushed Roger Federer's match against Russia's Daniil Medvedev back to Wednesday. Next up for Bautista Agut is a quarter-final date with defending champion John Isner, who was a 7-6(5) 7-6(3) winner over Britain's Kyle Edmund earlier in the day. KYRGIOS IN CONTROVERSY AGAIN Nick Kyrgios continued to mix the obscene with the sublime as he bowed out of the tournament at the hands of Borna Coric. The Australian produced perhaps the shot of the tournament, an audacious 'tweener' that caught a flat-footed Coric off guard early in his 4-6 6-3 6-2 loss to the 11th seed. Kyrgios was later given a point penalty for an audible obscenity, apparently directed at a spectator, that put him down a double break in the third. Kyrgios said he did not regret having a go at the spectator. "I'm playing for two hours and 20 minutes, and a guy yells at me, like 'play some tennis'," Kyrgios explained. "I'm not going to take it... Probably not needed, but at that time, when you're competing and in the heat of the moment, it's probably not what you want to hear. "If I swear or something, then I'll lose the point. That's why I didn't argue it. I just walked to my chair." Kyrgios has made headlines all week in Miami for his controversial underhanded serves, a verbal spat with another spectator who was heckling him, and for firing off an expletive-laden rant at an umpire during a doubles match. Up next for Coric will be a clash with 18-year-old Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime, who beat Georgian 17th seed Nikoloz Basilashvili 7-6(4) 6-4 to become the first qualifier to reach the last eight in Miami since Guillermo Canas in 2007. Canadian teenager Denis Shapovalov advanced to the quarter-finals with a 4-6 6-3 7-6(3) win over Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas, the tournament's eighth seed. In a late night match that lasted over two hours and finished at 1:40 AM local time, Shapovalov claimed only his second career win over an opponent in the top 10 in a 'Next Gen' battle. With compatriot Auger-Aliassime also in the quarters, it is the first time in 12 years that two teenagers have reached this stage of the tournament, after Andy Murray and Djokovic accomplished the feat as 19-year-olds in 2007. Shapovalov will take on American Frances Tiafoe in the next round.

Roberto Bautista Agut beats Novak Djokovic to reach Miami quarters, Kyrgios out

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Roger+Federer">Roger Federer</a> overcame a sluggish start to defeat Filip Krajinovic 7-5, 6-3 and Kevin Anderson's booming serve proved too much for Joao Sousa as they advanced to the fourth round of the Miami Open on Monday.

Serb Krajinovic broke Federer to jump to an early 2-1 lead and it looked like an upset could be in the works against the 20-times Grand Slam champion.

But fourth seed Federer broke back in the next game and seized the momentum when he blasted a cross-court forehand winner to break Krajinovic again and take the first set.

The Swiss coasted after that, thanks to an overpowering serve that Krajinovic struggled to read.

Federer, 37, said he had already put his loss to Dominic Thiem in the BNP Paribas Open final at Indian Wells last week behind him.

"Nowadays I am able to flush it out quickly. I was the worst at it when I was a teenager... right after it was all over I would cry and be so sad and disappointed," he said.

"I wasn't an angry person really, it just broke my heart.

"Nowadays I feel like 'look, I gave it all I had'. Thiem came up with the goods, I maybe didn't. That's it, it's over."

Next up for Federer is Russian Daniil Medvedev after the 13th seed defeated American qualifier Reilly Opelka 7-6(5), 6-7(5), 7-6(0) in a match that included 41 total aces.

Another big server, Anderson had 13 aces of his own with just one double-fault to seal a 6-4, 7-6(6) victory over Portuguese Sousa earlier in the day.

The towering South African sixth seed, showing no ill-effects from the arm injury that hampered him earlier this year, will be a heavy favourite when he faces unseeded Australian Jordan Thompson, who beat Grigor Dimitrov 7-5, 7-5.

Canadian teenager Denis Shapovalov dispatched 21-year-old Russian Andrey Rublev 6-3, 7-6(5) in the pair's first career meeting as the sun set on a warm Florida evening.

Next up for Shapovalov is a mouthwatering clash with another fellow young gun, 20-year-old Stefanos Tsitsipas.

The Greek world number 10 was never broken on his way to a 6-4, 6-4 win over Argentina's Leonardo Mayer in the night session.

American Frances Tiafoe battled back to defeat Spain's David Ferrer 5-7, 6-3, 6-3 to earn his spot in the fourth round, where he will face another defensive specialist, Belgian David Goffin.

Roger Federer overcame a sluggish start to defeat Filip Krajinovic 7-5, 6-3 and Kevin Anderson's booming serve proved too much for Joao Sousa as they advanced to the fourth round of the Miami Open on Monday.

Roger Federer overcame a sluggish start to defeat Filip Krajinovic 7-5, 6-3 and Kevin Anderson's booming serve proved too much for Joao Sousa as they advanced to the fourth round of the Miami Open on Monday. Serb Krajinovic broke Federer to jump to an early 2-1 lead and it looked like an upset could be in the works against the 20-times Grand Slam champion. But fourth seed Federer broke back in the next game and seized the momentum when he blasted a cross-court forehand winner to break Krajinovic again and take the first set. The Swiss coasted after that, thanks to an overpowering serve that Krajinovic struggled to read. Federer, 37, said he had already put his loss to Dominic Thiem in the BNP Paribas Open final at Indian Wells last week behind him. "Nowadays I am able to flush it out quickly. I was the worst at it when I was a teenager... right after it was all over I would cry and be so sad and disappointed," he said. "I wasn't an angry person really, it just broke my heart. "Nowadays I feel like 'look, I gave it all I had'. Thiem came up with the goods, I maybe didn't. That's it, it's over." Next up for Federer is Russian Daniil Medvedev after the 13th seed defeated American qualifier Reilly Opelka 7-6(5), 6-7(5), 7-6(0) in a match that included 41 total aces. Another big server, Anderson had 13 aces of his own with just one double-fault to seal a 6-4, 7-6(6) victory over Portuguese Sousa earlier in the day. The towering South African sixth seed, showing no ill-effects from the arm injury that hampered him earlier this year, will be a heavy favourite when he faces unseeded Australian Jordan Thompson, who beat Grigor Dimitrov 7-5, 7-5. Canadian teenager Denis Shapovalov dispatched 21-year-old Russian Andrey Rublev 6-3, 7-6(5) in the pair's first career meeting as the sun set on a warm Florida evening. Next up for Shapovalov is a mouthwatering clash with another fellow young gun, 20-year-old Stefanos Tsitsipas. The Greek world number 10 was never broken on his way to a 6-4, 6-4 win over Argentina's Leonardo Mayer in the night session. American Frances Tiafoe battled back to defeat Spain's David Ferrer 5-7, 6-3, 6-3 to earn his spot in the fourth round, where he will face another defensive specialist, Belgian David Goffin.

Miami Open: Roger Federer, Kevin Anderson advance to fourth round

Having annoyed Rafa Nadal with an underarm serve at Acapulco, Nick Kyrgios doubled down with the tactic to win two points against hapless Serb Dusan Lajovic at the Miami Open and fire up a timeworn debate between modern fans and purists.

The mercurial Australian has been sanctioned for a litany of tennis offences, accused of tanking matches and slapped with a heavy fine for a crude remark about a player's girlfriend.

But in dinking the ball over the net with a sneaky under-arm swing, Kyrgios was operating completely within the laws of the game, if not quite the "spirit", as Nadal and others might have complained.

For a self-described lazy trainer, the 23-year-old has clearly put some time into honing the tactic since his effort against former world number one Nadal floated well beyond the service box.

The first attempt at 3-1 in the first set against unseeded Lajovic might have been regarded as text-book execution, if there existed such a consensus.

With the Serb standing well behind the baseline, Kyrgios leant over the ball, bounced it a few times and without looking up, flicked it just over the net.

It landed with enough slice to bounce twice for an ace and seal the game, leaving a flat-footed Lajovic no chance to reply.

More casually struck, Kyrgios's second effort lacked something in execution, allowing Lajovic to swoop in and easily make the retrieve.

But the Australian was ready for the Serb's drop-shot return, and flicked it past him to close out the first set.

British tennis luminary Judy Murray thrilled in the tactic.

"The whole point of tennis competition is to disrupt (yo)ur opponents game by applying pressure through changing the speed, spin, direction, depth or height of the ball," the former Fed Cup captain and mother of Andy Murray tweeted.

"And that includes the serve. Kyrgios is a genius. I’m surprised more players don’t do it."

SPORTING TABOOS&nbsp;

Belgian professional Kirsten Flipkens was among the social media users backing Murray's stance, but there were plenty of detractors denouncing under-arm serving as questionable sportsmanship.

The debate between the laws and "the spirit" of the game is not unique to tennis, with a number of other sports having their own taboos.

Cricket was in uproar on Tuesday after Indian bowler <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2019-jos-buttler-mankaded-by-r-ashwin-twitter-slams-punjab-captain-205606">Ravichandran Ashwin ran out English batsman Jos Buttler with the rarely used but entirely permissible "Mankad"</a> dismissal in the Indian Premier League match on the previous evening. [nL3N21D0QG]

As an Australian, Kyrgios will be well aware that a ball delivered underarm in a cricket match in 1981 triggered one of the biggest sporting scandals in the country`s history.&nbsp;

Australia's Trevor Chappell rolled the ball along the pitch to prevent New Zealand batsman Brian McKechnie from scoring enough runs to win a match. It was perfectly legal at the time, but universally condemned.

In tennis, the frowning of opponents and conservative fans has likely made most players think twice about taking up under-arm serving as a tactic.

Five-times Grand Slam champion Martina Hingis was jeered vociferously by the crowd during the 1999 French Open final when she tried it against Steffi Graf on the way to defeat.

Roger Federer, however, said another concern was simply looking silly.

"Shouldn`t be ashamed if you try it. Just look silly if you miss," the Swiss Master said after Kyrgios'&nbsp;effort against Nadal.

For a maverick like Kyrgios, who regularly squanders points on botched `tweeners and other trick shots, the threat of embarrassment is unlikely to be a deterrent.

Having annoyed Rafa Nadal with an underarm serve at Acapulco, Nick Kyrgios doubled down with the tactic to win two points against hapless Serb Dusan Lajovic at the Miami Open and fire up a timeworn debate between modern fans and purists.

Having annoyed Rafa Nadal with an underarm serve at Acapulco, Nick Kyrgios doubled down with the tactic to win two points against hapless Serb Dusan Lajovic at the Miami Open and fire up a timeworn debate between modern fans and purists. The mercurial Australian has been sanctioned for a litany of tennis offences, accused of tanking matches and slapped with a heavy fine for a crude remark about a player's girlfriend. But in dinking the ball over the net with a sneaky under-arm swing, Kyrgios was operating completely within the laws of the game, if not quite the "spirit", as Nadal and others might have complained. For a self-described lazy trainer, the 23-year-old has clearly put some time into honing the tactic since his effort against former world number one Nadal floated well beyond the service box. The first attempt at 3-1 in the first set against unseeded Lajovic might have been regarded as text-book execution, if there existed such a consensus. With the Serb standing well behind the baseline, Kyrgios leant over the ball, bounced it a few times and without looking up, flicked it just over the net. It landed with enough slice to bounce twice for an ace and seal the game, leaving a flat-footed Lajovic no chance to reply. More casually struck, Kyrgios's second effort lacked something in execution, allowing Lajovic to swoop in and easily make the retrieve. But the Australian was ready for the Serb's drop-shot return, and flicked it past him to close out the first set. British tennis luminary Judy Murray thrilled in the tactic. "The whole point of tennis competition is to disrupt (yo)ur opponents game by applying pressure through changing the speed, spin, direction, depth or height of the ball," the former Fed Cup captain and mother of Andy Murray tweeted. "And that includes the serve. Kyrgios is a genius. I’m surprised more players don’t do it." SPORTING TABOOS Belgian professional Kirsten Flipkens was among the social media users backing Murray's stance, but there were plenty of detractors denouncing under-arm serving as questionable sportsmanship. The debate between the laws and "the spirit" of the game is not unique to tennis, with a number of other sports having their own taboos. Cricket was in uproar on Tuesday after Indian bowler Ravichandran Ashwin ran out English batsman Jos Buttler with the rarely used but entirely permissible "Mankad" dismissal in the Indian Premier League match on the previous evening. [nL3N21D0QG] As an Australian, Kyrgios will be well aware that a ball delivered underarm in a cricket match in 1981 triggered one of the biggest sporting scandals in the country`s history. Australia's Trevor Chappell rolled the ball along the pitch to prevent New Zealand batsman Brian McKechnie from scoring enough runs to win a match. It was perfectly legal at the time, but universally condemned. In tennis, the frowning of opponents and conservative fans has likely made most players think twice about taking up under-arm serving as a tactic. Five-times Grand Slam champion Martina Hingis was jeered vociferously by the crowd during the 1999 French Open final when she tried it against Steffi Graf on the way to defeat. Roger Federer, however, said another concern was simply looking silly. "Shouldn`t be ashamed if you try it. Just look silly if you miss," the Swiss Master said after Kyrgios' effort against Nadal. For a maverick like Kyrgios, who regularly squanders points on botched `tweeners and other trick shots, the threat of embarrassment is unlikely to be a deterrent.

Underarm or underhanded? Nick Kyrgios serve stokes debate

World number one Novak Djokovic staved off a spirited challenge from Federico Delbonis for a 7-5, 4-6, 6-1 win in the third round of the Miami Open on Sunday.

Like Roger Federer the previous day, top seed Djokovic found it tough going against an unseeded opponent before prevailing in two hours in the Florida twilight.

Eighty-third ranked Delbonis, a left-hander with perhaps the highest ball toss in the game, took advantage of some Djokovic errors in the second set.

"I managed to really play well last couple games of first set, put myself in front, then I played a couple of really bad service games," Djokovic told reporters.

"Credit to Federico, he stepped in. He was the one controlling the pace. I backed up. I didn't have that much depth and power in my shots, and he used it.

"I think first two, three games of the third set were crucial. (I was) really fighting, trying to be present, regain the positioning on the court more than anything."

The result improved Djokovic's impressive record against Argentine players. According to the ATP Tour, since 2007 only Juan Martin del Potro has beaten Djokovic, who is 36-3 against Argentines during the period.

Next up for the Serb is Spanish 22nd seed Roberto Bautista Agut, who prevailed 6-4, 6-4 over Italian 15th seed Fabio Fognini.

In Sunday's late match, Nick Kyrgios had more trouble with a heckler than his opponent Dusan Lajovic.

Kyrgios won a point with an underhand serve in the first set, and the Australian then engaged in a heated verbal exchange with a spectator that continued for several points.

The spectator was eventually escorted away by security.

Kyrgios also had a brief outburst at the chair umpire in a dispute over a line call early in the second set, but then settled down and played out a 6-3, 6-1 win in less than an hour.

Next up for Kyrgios is Croatian 11th seed Borna Coric, who battled back to beat Jeremy Chardy of France 6-7(2), 6-2, 6-3, closing out in style with an ace.

Earlier, defending champion John Isner unleashed 16 aces in a 7-5, 7-6(6) victory over Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas.

Ramos-Vinolas broke Isner to start the match but the American saved the next four break points he faced to advance.

"I did a lot of things well today," Isner said. "I played a good first set, even though I didn't start it off well. In the second, it wasn't quite as clean.

"I'll talk to my coach and try to iron things out. But I'm into the round of 16 of a big tournament and I'm happy."

The seventh seed will face Britain's 19th-seeded Kyle Edmund in the fourth round. Edmund beat Canadian 12th seed Milos Raonic 6-4, 6-4.

Isner has practised with Edmund in Miami and they have split two meetings.

Also on Sunday, Canadian teenager Felix Auger-Aliassime continued his stellar form with a 7-6(5), 6-4 win over Pole Hubert Hurkacz.

Auger-Aliassime last month made his first career final at the Rio Open, where he fell to Laslo Djere.

World number one Novak Djokovic staved off a spirited challenge from Federico Delbonis for a 7-5, 4-6, 6-1 win in the third round of the Miami Open on Sunday. Like Roger Federer the previous day, top seed Djokovic found it tough going against an unseeded opponent before prevailing in two hours in the Florida twilight.

World number one Novak Djokovic staved off a spirited challenge from Federico Delbonis for a 7-5, 4-6, 6-1 win in the third round of the Miami Open on Sunday. Like Roger Federer the previous day, top seed Djokovic found it tough going against an unseeded opponent before prevailing in two hours in the Florida twilight. Eighty-third ranked Delbonis, a left-hander with perhaps the highest ball toss in the game, took advantage of some Djokovic errors in the second set. "I managed to really play well last couple games of first set, put myself in front, then I played a couple of really bad service games," Djokovic told reporters. "Credit to Federico, he stepped in. He was the one controlling the pace. I backed up. I didn't have that much depth and power in my shots, and he used it. "I think first two, three games of the third set were crucial. (I was) really fighting, trying to be present, regain the positioning on the court more than anything." The result improved Djokovic's impressive record against Argentine players. According to the ATP Tour, since 2007 only Juan Martin del Potro has beaten Djokovic, who is 36-3 against Argentines during the period. Next up for the Serb is Spanish 22nd seed Roberto Bautista Agut, who prevailed 6-4, 6-4 over Italian 15th seed Fabio Fognini. In Sunday's late match, Nick Kyrgios had more trouble with a heckler than his opponent Dusan Lajovic. Kyrgios won a point with an underhand serve in the first set, and the Australian then engaged in a heated verbal exchange with a spectator that continued for several points. The spectator was eventually escorted away by security. Kyrgios also had a brief outburst at the chair umpire in a dispute over a line call early in the second set, but then settled down and played out a 6-3, 6-1 win in less than an hour. Next up for Kyrgios is Croatian 11th seed Borna Coric, who battled back to beat Jeremy Chardy of France 6-7(2), 6-2, 6-3, closing out in style with an ace. Earlier, defending champion John Isner unleashed 16 aces in a 7-5, 7-6(6) victory over Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas. Ramos-Vinolas broke Isner to start the match but the American saved the next four break points he faced to advance. "I did a lot of things well today," Isner said. "I played a good first set, even though I didn't start it off well. In the second, it wasn't quite as clean. "I'll talk to my coach and try to iron things out. But I'm into the round of 16 of a big tournament and I'm happy." The seventh seed will face Britain's 19th-seeded Kyle Edmund in the fourth round. Edmund beat Canadian 12th seed Milos Raonic 6-4, 6-4. Isner has practised with Edmund in Miami and they have split two meetings. Also on Sunday, Canadian teenager Felix Auger-Aliassime continued his stellar form with a 7-6(5), 6-4 win over Pole Hubert Hurkacz. Auger-Aliassime last month made his first career final at the Rio Open, where he fell to Laslo Djere.

Miami Open: Novak Djokovic defeats Federico Delbonis to enter fourth round

Roger Federer rallied from a set down to beat Moldovan surprise package Radu Albot 4-6, 7-5, 6-3 in a stuttering start to the 20-times Grand Slam champion's Miami Open campaign on Saturday.&nbsp;

Federer, beaten by Dominic Thiem in last week's BNP Paribas Open final, smashed 14 aces and broke Albot twice to advance to the third round but it was far from plain sailing for the 37-year-old against the world number 46. After dropping the first set, Federer broke Albot while leading 6-5 in the second with a backhand volley winner.

Albot could not convert a break point in the deciding set tied a 3-3, and the Swiss took command from there to wrap up a match that lasted two hours and 10 minutes.

Three-times Miami champion Federer finished with 38 winners but had to overcame 41 unforced errors to defeat Albot, who earned an ovation from the crowd for his efforts.

Earlier on Saturday, South Africa’s Kevin Anderson made a winning return to competition with a 6-4, 3-6, 6-3 victory over rising Spaniard Jaume Munar. After more than two months away from the court with an elbow injury, the world number seven smashed 17 aces en route to the second round win over the 21-year-old Munar.

It was Anderson's first tournament appearance since the Australian Open in January and he said he was happy with the way his elbow felt.

"To get through in three sets, it felt really good to be back out there. I’m happy with how the elbow responded. I feel like I’m hitting the ball great," the sixth seed added.

“It’s always different playing matches than hitting in practice, but I’ve been able to up my load and how much I’m able to serve. That’s really encouraging and that’s why I felt good coming into this week.

“I’ve been able to do everything but hit serves recently. I always had the confidence that as soon as I got over that hurdle, I was going to find my form pretty quickly.”

Two of Russia’s young prospects, Karen Khachanov and Daniil Medvedev, were also Saturday winners.

The 10th seed Khachanov beat Australian Jordan Thompson 6-2, 6-3 while his friend Medvedev, the 13th seed, toppled France’s Adrian Mannarino 6-2 6-1.

Eighth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas easily beat Mackenzie McDonald 7-6(4), 6-1. In other early action, Belgian David Goffin, the 18th seed, defeated Spaniard Pablo Andujar 6-4 6-1, while Canadian 20th seed Denis Shapovalov came from a set down to beat Britain’s Dan Evans 4-6, 6-1, 6-3.

Roger Federer rallied from a set down to beat Moldovan surprise package Radu Albot 4-6, 7-5, 6-3 in a stuttering start to the 20-times Grand Slam champion's Miami Open campaign on Saturday.

Roger Federer rallied from a set down to beat Moldovan surprise package Radu Albot 4-6, 7-5, 6-3 in a stuttering start to the 20-times Grand Slam champion's Miami Open campaign on Saturday. Federer, beaten by Dominic Thiem in last week's BNP Paribas Open final, smashed 14 aces and broke Albot twice to advance to the third round but it was far from plain sailing for the 37-year-old against the world number 46. After dropping the first set, Federer broke Albot while leading 6-5 in the second with a backhand volley winner. Albot could not convert a break point in the deciding set tied a 3-3, and the Swiss took command from there to wrap up a match that lasted two hours and 10 minutes. Three-times Miami champion Federer finished with 38 winners but had to overcame 41 unforced errors to defeat Albot, who earned an ovation from the crowd for his efforts. Earlier on Saturday, South Africa’s Kevin Anderson made a winning return to competition with a 6-4, 3-6, 6-3 victory over rising Spaniard Jaume Munar. After more than two months away from the court with an elbow injury, the world number seven smashed 17 aces en route to the second round win over the 21-year-old Munar. It was Anderson's first tournament appearance since the Australian Open in January and he said he was happy with the way his elbow felt. "To get through in three sets, it felt really good to be back out there. I’m happy with how the elbow responded. I feel like I’m hitting the ball great," the sixth seed added. “It’s always different playing matches than hitting in practice, but I’ve been able to up my load and how much I’m able to serve. That’s really encouraging and that’s why I felt good coming into this week. “I’ve been able to do everything but hit serves recently. I always had the confidence that as soon as I got over that hurdle, I was going to find my form pretty quickly.” Two of Russia’s young prospects, Karen Khachanov and Daniil Medvedev, were also Saturday winners. The 10th seed Khachanov beat Australian Jordan Thompson 6-2, 6-3 while his friend Medvedev, the 13th seed, toppled France’s Adrian Mannarino 6-2 6-1. Eighth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas easily beat Mackenzie McDonald 7-6(4), 6-1. In other early action, Belgian David Goffin, the 18th seed, defeated Spaniard Pablo Andujar 6-4 6-1, while Canadian 20th seed Denis Shapovalov came from a set down to beat Britain’s Dan Evans 4-6, 6-1, 6-3.

Roger Federer fights back to beat Radu Albot in Miami Open

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-retires-from-3rd-round-match-at-indian-wells-202434">Serena Williams</a> withdrew from the WTA and ATP Masters Miami Open on Saturday with a left knee injury.

The 23-time Grand Slam champion's withdrawal comes a day after she beat Sweden's Rebecca Peterson in three sets to reach the third round.

"I am disappointed to withdraw from the Miami Open due to a left knee injury," said Williams, an eight-time winner in Miami who has completed just seven matches this year.

The 37-year-old superstar, now ranked 10th in the world, appeared to be moving freely against Peterson, but said she needed to play better than she did in a 6-3, 1-6, 6-1 win.

She was next scheduled to face 18th-seeded Wang Qiang, who advances to the fourth round by walkover.

Williams fell in a three-set battle with Czech Karolina Pliskova in the quarter-finals of the Australian Open in January.

In her first tournament since then, at Indian Wells this month, she defeated former world number one Victoria Azarenka in her opening match but then retired while trailing against another former No. 1, Garbine Muguruza, with a viral illness.

Serena Williams withdrew from the WTA and ATP Masters Miami Open on Saturday with a left knee injury. The 23-time Grand Slam champion's withdrawal comes a day after she beat Sweden's Rebecca Peterson in three sets to reach the third round.

Serena Williams withdrew from the WTA and ATP Masters Miami Open on Saturday with a left knee injury. The 23-time Grand Slam champion's withdrawal comes a day after she beat Sweden's Rebecca Peterson in three sets to reach the third round. "I am disappointed to withdraw from the Miami Open due to a left knee injury," said Williams, an eight-time winner in Miami who has completed just seven matches this year. The 37-year-old superstar, now ranked 10th in the world, appeared to be moving freely against Peterson, but said she needed to play better than she did in a 6-3, 1-6, 6-1 win. She was next scheduled to face 18th-seeded Wang Qiang, who advances to the fourth round by walkover. Williams fell in a three-set battle with Czech Karolina Pliskova in the quarter-finals of the Australian Open in January. In her first tournament since then, at Indian Wells this month, she defeated former world number one Victoria Azarenka in her opening match but then retired while trailing against another former No. 1, Garbine Muguruza, with a viral illness.

Serena Williams withdraws from Miami Open with knee injury

A stunned Kei Nishikori was sent packing from the Miami Open after the Japanese world number six suffered a 2-6, 6-2, 6-3 second-round loss to Serbian Dusan Lajovic on Friday.

Fifth-seed Nishikori had a first-round bye and appeared to be heading for a routine victory until Lajovic, who was misfiring in the early stages of the match, suddenly stepped up his game.

"He definitely raised his level (in the) second and third sets. He started playing more solid from the baseline. He wasn't missing much like in the first set. He served well in the end," said Nishikori. "Maybe I didn't play quite my best today. Credit to him today."

Next up for world number 44 Lajovic, who had lost in the first round of five tour-level events this season, will be a clash with either 27th seed Nick Kyrgios or qualifier Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan.

Nishikori, who was playing in his first match since falling in the third round at Indian Wells last week, had his serve broken five times during the match.

"I'm trying to keep my head up," said Nishikori. "Claycourt season is coming. It's a completely new season. I'll try to have good practice, two more weeks, and be ready for Monte Carlo."

In other early men's action, Croatian 11th seed Borna Coric beat Spaniard Roberto Carballes Baena, British 19th seed Kyle Edmund beat Belarusian Ilya Ivashka, 23rd seed Gilles Simon lost to French compatriot Jeremy Chardy and Nikoloz Basilashvili of Georgia beat German Mischa Zverev.

Top seed Novak Djokovic will kick off the night session with a clash against Australian Bernard Tomic.

A stunned Kei Nishikori was sent packing from the Miami Open after the Japanese world number six suffered a 2-6, 6-2, 6-3 second-round loss to Serbian Dusan Lajovic on Friday.

A stunned Kei Nishikori was sent packing from the Miami Open after the Japanese world number six suffered a 2-6, 6-2, 6-3 second-round loss to Serbian Dusan Lajovic on Friday. Fifth-seed Nishikori had a first-round bye and appeared to be heading for a routine victory until Lajovic, who was misfiring in the early stages of the match, suddenly stepped up his game. "He definitely raised his level (in the) second and third sets. He started playing more solid from the baseline. He wasn't missing much like in the first set. He served well in the end," said Nishikori. "Maybe I didn't play quite my best today. Credit to him today." Next up for world number 44 Lajovic, who had lost in the first round of five tour-level events this season, will be a clash with either 27th seed Nick Kyrgios or qualifier Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan. Nishikori, who was playing in his first match since falling in the third round at Indian Wells last week, had his serve broken five times during the match. "I'm trying to keep my head up," said Nishikori. "Claycourt season is coming. It's a completely new season. I'll try to have good practice, two more weeks, and be ready for Monte Carlo." In other early men's action, Croatian 11th seed Borna Coric beat Spaniard Roberto Carballes Baena, British 19th seed Kyle Edmund beat Belarusian Ilya Ivashka, 23rd seed Gilles Simon lost to French compatriot Jeremy Chardy and Nikoloz Basilashvili of Georgia beat German Mischa Zverev. Top seed Novak Djokovic will kick off the night session with a clash against Australian Bernard Tomic.

Miami Open: Kei Nishikori stunned by Lajovic in second round

World number one Naomi Osaka endured a rollercoaster start to the Miami Open on Friday, advancing to the third round with a 6-0, 6-7(3), 6-1 win over Belgian Yanina Wickmayer.

After facing eight-times Miami champion Serena Williams in her first match last year, Osaka might have expected an easier opener on Friday against the 141st-ranked Belgian qualifier.

Yet that was not the case as she needed more than two hours to dispose of her Belgian opponent, having dispatched the 23-times grand slam singles champion 6-3, 6-2 a year earlier.

"It was really hard for me, I think, emotionally in the second set because I just started thinking about winning, not exactly the things I could do in order to win," said Osaka.

"I had a bit of a dip. She was also playing really well."

The first match on Stadium Court, the contest again looked like it might wrap up before the late arrivals had settled in but it turned into a head scratcher for Osaka that ebbed and flowed between dominance and despair.

The Japanese, who had been firing on all cylinders while Wickmayer sleepwalked through a one-sided opening set, suddenly began to sputter in the second as the Belgian woke from her slumber.

Letting her foot off the gas, the Australian and US&nbsp;Open champion was left muttering to herself and flipping her racket as shots that had been finding their target minutes before were sprayed all over the temporary court allowing Wickmayer back into the match.

Yet just as quickly as Osaka lost her way the 21-year-old got back on track in the third set, securing the early break on her way to a 3-0 lead and a topsy-turvy victory.

Although South Florida is home for Osaka, the Miami stop has not been kind to the Japanese, who has never ventured past the third round.

Osaka will next face Taiwan's 27th seed Hsieh Su-wei, who was a 6-2, 7-5 winner over American Alison Riske.

"I consider Miami a home," said Osaka. "I definitely always want to do well here whenever I play.

"I haven't really done well here compared to the other tournaments. It's definitely been a really big goal of mine."

Serena Williams regained her form after a shaky second set to dispatch Rebecca Peterson of Sweden 6-3, 1-6, 6-1 to set up a third-round clash with China's Wang Qiang.

"I knew I could play a lot better than I was playing," Williams said of her error-ridden second set.

"I just said, 'Ok you're better than this, Serena."

It was the 10th-seeded American's first time on court since retiring during her third-round match at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells with an illness earlier this month.

After a dramatic comeback win in her opening match, Canadian teen Bianca Andreescu took a more confident step towards the 'Sunshine Double', disposing of American 22nd seed Sofia Kenin 6-3, 6-3 to reach the third round.

The youngest player to win Indian Wells since Serena Williams in 1999, Andreescu is bidding to become just the fourth woman to win both there and Miami back-to-back in the same year.

While Andreescu's run continues, two other promising American teenagers saw their time in Miami come to an end.

After picking up her first career WTA Tour event win on Thursday, 15-year-old Cori Gauff fell to 14th-seeded Russian Daria Kasatkina 6-3, 6-2 while 17-year-old Amanda Anisimova lost 6-3, 1-6, 6-4 to Estonian Anett Kontaveit.

World number one Naomi Osaka endured a rollercoaster start to the Miami Open on Friday, advancing to the third round with a 6-0, 6-7(3), 6-1 win over Belgian Yanina Wickmayer.

World number one Naomi Osaka endured a rollercoaster start to the Miami Open on Friday, advancing to the third round with a 6-0, 6-7(3), 6-1 win over Belgian Yanina Wickmayer. After facing eight-times Miami champion Serena Williams in her first match last year, Osaka might have expected an easier opener on Friday against the 141st-ranked Belgian qualifier. Yet that was not the case as she needed more than two hours to dispose of her Belgian opponent, having dispatched the 23-times grand slam singles champion 6-3, 6-2 a year earlier. "It was really hard for me, I think, emotionally in the second set because I just started thinking about winning, not exactly the things I could do in order to win," said Osaka. "I had a bit of a dip. She was also playing really well." The first match on Stadium Court, the contest again looked like it might wrap up before the late arrivals had settled in but it turned into a head scratcher for Osaka that ebbed and flowed between dominance and despair. The Japanese, who had been firing on all cylinders while Wickmayer sleepwalked through a one-sided opening set, suddenly began to sputter in the second as the Belgian woke from her slumber. Letting her foot off the gas, the Australian and US Open champion was left muttering to herself and flipping her racket as shots that had been finding their target minutes before were sprayed all over the temporary court allowing Wickmayer back into the match. Yet just as quickly as Osaka lost her way the 21-year-old got back on track in the third set, securing the early break on her way to a 3-0 lead and a topsy-turvy victory. Although South Florida is home for Osaka, the Miami stop has not been kind to the Japanese, who has never ventured past the third round. Osaka will next face Taiwan's 27th seed Hsieh Su-wei, who was a 6-2, 7-5 winner over American Alison Riske. "I consider Miami a home," said Osaka. "I definitely always want to do well here whenever I play. "I haven't really done well here compared to the other tournaments. It's definitely been a really big goal of mine." Serena Williams regained her form after a shaky second set to dispatch Rebecca Peterson of Sweden 6-3, 1-6, 6-1 to set up a third-round clash with China's Wang Qiang. "I knew I could play a lot better than I was playing," Williams said of her error-ridden second set. "I just said, 'Ok you're better than this, Serena." It was the 10th-seeded American's first time on court since retiring during her third-round match at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells with an illness earlier this month. After a dramatic comeback win in her opening match, Canadian teen Bianca Andreescu took a more confident step towards the 'Sunshine Double', disposing of American 22nd seed Sofia Kenin 6-3, 6-3 to reach the third round. The youngest player to win Indian Wells since Serena Williams in 1999, Andreescu is bidding to become just the fourth woman to win both there and Miami back-to-back in the same year. While Andreescu's run continues, two other promising American teenagers saw their time in Miami come to an end. After picking up her first career WTA Tour event win on Thursday, 15-year-old Cori Gauff fell to 14th-seeded Russian Daria Kasatkina 6-3, 6-2 while 17-year-old Amanda Anisimova lost 6-3, 1-6, 6-4 to Estonian Anett Kontaveit.

Naomi Osaka enjoys rollercoaster win in Miami

Anyone one not paying attention to Bianca Andreescu after her run to the Indian Wells title is paying attention now after the Canadian teen fought back from match point down to reach the second round of the Miami Open.&nbsp;

Trailing 5-1 in the second the 18-year-old Andreescu refused to be pushed out the exit by Irina-Camelia Begu digging in to take the set in a tiebreak then steamrolling the crumbling Romanian to claim a 4-6, 7-6(2), 6-2 decision.&nbsp;

On way to being crowned the BNP Paribas champion Andreescu beat five seeded opponents, including grand slam winners Garbine Muguruza and Angelique Kerber to become the youngest Indian Wells champion since Serena Williams in 1999.&nbsp;

Andreescu's performance against the 70th ranked Begu may have been more revealing as she refused to surrender and oozed the confidence of a champion.&nbsp;

"I think confidence is a lot (of if)," Andreescu told reporters. "If you have trust in your game and in your training, then a lot of good things can happen.

"I try to stay in the present moment. I try to play every point like it's the first point of the match.

"I tried to stay as calm as I could, tried to pump myself up.

"In those moments, I try to go for my shots as much as possible, because I think that's when I play my best tennis."

Andreescu's confidence is not only evident on the court but off it as well.

Only three women -- Steffi Graf, Kim Clijsters and Victoria Azarenka -- have completed the 'Sunshine Double', and Andreescu wants to add her name to that list.

"It would mean everything to me (to win Miami)," admitted Andreescu. "Winning Indian Wells was incredible, but, I mean, if I win back to back, that would be even more incredible.

"If I keep making history, then I just keep accomplishing my goals, because that's one thing that I have always wanted to do.

"So if I have my name alongside those amazing players, it would definitely mean a lot."

Anyone one not paying attention to Bianca Andreescu after her run to the Indian Wells title is paying attention now after the Canadian teen fought back from match point down to reach the second round of the Miami Open.

Anyone one not paying attention to Bianca Andreescu after her run to the Indian Wells title is paying attention now after the Canadian teen fought back from match point down to reach the second round of the Miami Open. Trailing 5-1 in the second the 18-year-old Andreescu refused to be pushed out the exit by Irina-Camelia Begu digging in to take the set in a tiebreak then steamrolling the crumbling Romanian to claim a 4-6, 7-6(2), 6-2 decision. On way to being crowned the BNP Paribas champion Andreescu beat five seeded opponents, including grand slam winners Garbine Muguruza and Angelique Kerber to become the youngest Indian Wells champion since Serena Williams in 1999. Andreescu's performance against the 70th ranked Begu may have been more revealing as she refused to surrender and oozed the confidence of a champion. "I think confidence is a lot (of if)," Andreescu told reporters. "If you have trust in your game and in your training, then a lot of good things can happen. "I try to stay in the present moment. I try to play every point like it's the first point of the match. "I tried to stay as calm as I could, tried to pump myself up. "In those moments, I try to go for my shots as much as possible, because I think that's when I play my best tennis." Andreescu's confidence is not only evident on the court but off it as well. Only three women -- Steffi Graf, Kim Clijsters and Victoria Azarenka -- have completed the 'Sunshine Double', and Andreescu wants to add her name to that list. "It would mean everything to me (to win Miami)," admitted Andreescu. "Winning Indian Wells was incredible, but, I mean, if I win back to back, that would be even more incredible. "If I keep making history, then I just keep accomplishing my goals, because that's one thing that I have always wanted to do. "So if I have my name alongside those amazing players, it would definitely mean a lot."

Great escape brings greater expectations for Bianca Andreescu

World number one Novak Djokovic dismissed any suggestion of friction with Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal as tennis politics spilt over to the Miami Open.

Tension between the three biggest names in men's tennis appeared on the rise after Djokovic, president of the ATP Player Council, rebuffed a request by Federer to meet during the BNP Paribas in Indian Wells earlier this month to discuss the future of ATP chairman Chris Kermode.

Despite a tenure which brought record prize money and growth, Kermode was ousted as ATP chief when players' representatives on the ATP Board failed to endorse an extension of the Englishman's contract.

As head of the 10 member Player Council Djokovic had been pushing for change while Federer and Nadal backed Kermode or at the least felt the issue needed more discussion.

"I saw Roger today, we were in the opening ceremony cutting the ribbon on center court," said Djokovic during his pre-tournament press conference on Wednesday. "We had a small chat there was no time to talk about the political stuff.

"That is hopefully something we will have time in the next few days to go through.

"It's not necessary for you guys to create any tensions between us. In contrary I have a very good relations with both of them."

With Kermode's status decided Federer said on Wednesday that he is still willing to talk to Djokovic but with the decision made saw no urgency to meet.

"A lot of stuff has been decided already so we'll see if this week is going to happen or not but we are not chasing each other at this point," said Federer. "If it happens, it happens."

For his part Djokovic appeared eager to wash his hands of the entire affair reminding everyone that it was the three players representatives on the ATP board that voted not to renew Kermode's contract and not the Player Council, which was only part of the discussion.

The Serb added that if Federer and Nadal have opinions they were welcome to share them with the Player Council at any time.

"The player council is only part of the structure," said Djokovic. "We are not part of the board or deciding anything that is voted on later on.

"We are in consultation and collaboration with our player board representatives.

"Board members are the ones voting on what they think is appropriate for the players side.

"Federer and Nadal have been icons of our sport for so many years and their opinions are extremely important to everyone.

"If they want to be active and part of it, either officially or unofficially, I think it's only positive news for us."

World number one Novak Djokovic dismissed any suggestion of friction with Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal as tennis politics spilt over to the Miami Open. Tension between the three biggest names in men's tennis appeared on the rise after Djokovic, president of the ATP Player Council, rebuffed a request by Federer to meet during the BNP Paribas in Indian Wells earlier this month to discuss the future of ATP chairman Chris Kermode.

World number one Novak Djokovic dismissed any suggestion of friction with Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal as tennis politics spilt over to the Miami Open. Tension between the three biggest names in men's tennis appeared on the rise after Djokovic, president of the ATP Player Council, rebuffed a request by Federer to meet during the BNP Paribas in Indian Wells earlier this month to discuss the future of ATP chairman Chris Kermode. Despite a tenure which brought record prize money and growth, Kermode was ousted as ATP chief when players' representatives on the ATP Board failed to endorse an extension of the Englishman's contract. As head of the 10 member Player Council Djokovic had been pushing for change while Federer and Nadal backed Kermode or at the least felt the issue needed more discussion. "I saw Roger today, we were in the opening ceremony cutting the ribbon on center court," said Djokovic during his pre-tournament press conference on Wednesday. "We had a small chat there was no time to talk about the political stuff. "That is hopefully something we will have time in the next few days to go through. "It's not necessary for you guys to create any tensions between us. In contrary I have a very good relations with both of them." With Kermode's status decided Federer said on Wednesday that he is still willing to talk to Djokovic but with the decision made saw no urgency to meet. "A lot of stuff has been decided already so we'll see if this week is going to happen or not but we are not chasing each other at this point," said Federer. "If it happens, it happens." For his part Djokovic appeared eager to wash his hands of the entire affair reminding everyone that it was the three players representatives on the ATP board that voted not to renew Kermode's contract and not the Player Council, which was only part of the discussion. The Serb added that if Federer and Nadal have opinions they were welcome to share them with the Player Council at any time. "The player council is only part of the structure," said Djokovic. "We are not part of the board or deciding anything that is voted on later on. "We are in consultation and collaboration with our player board representatives. "Board members are the ones voting on what they think is appropriate for the players side. "Federer and Nadal have been icons of our sport for so many years and their opinions are extremely important to everyone. "If they want to be active and part of it, either officially or unofficially, I think it's only positive news for us."

Novak Djokovic ready to play tennis not politics at Miami Open

Rain wiped out the opening day play at the Miami Open on Tuesday, delaying the start of the tournament at its new Hard Rock Stadium home.

Having outgrown the cramped quarters of Key Biscayne's Crandon Park, and unable to secure the necessary approvals to renovate and expand, the Miami Open has moved to the home of the NFL's Miami Dolphins but the day-long rain spoilt the moment.

With a 25 per cent jump in ticket sales, tournament director James Blake, the former world number four, had been expecting a record crowd but instead, the 14,000 seats temporary show court inside the stadium stood empty and the luxury boxes were silent.

Germany's Andrea Petkovic and 17-year-old American Amanda Anisimova were scheduled to christen the action on the main show court with Mari Osaka, the sister of Japanese world number one Naomi Osaka, taking on Whitney Osuigwe in the nightcap.

Tuesday's first-round play was supposed to be a dress rehearsal for Wednesday's official opening, which will see Serena Williams, who is a part-owner in the Dolphins, Roger Federer and world number ones Novak Djokovic and Naomi Osaka taking part in a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

"When we get through the first day or two and see what we are in store for I have a feeling we will be announcing a lot of (attendance) records broken this year," American Blake told Reuters in a pre-tournament interview.

"I don't want to be too pie-in-the-sky but I do think we are going to break a records."

Once the rain disappears fans can expect a wide open tournament if the season follows the current trend.

There have been 19 ATP Tour events this season and 13 WTA events each producing a different winner.

Bianca Andreescu, the 18-year-old Canadian who stunned the field in Indian Wells last week to claim her first career win, is on that list and comes to Miami looking to complete what would be an even more unlikely Sunshine Double.

Sloane Stephens, the reigning Miami champion, and Serena Williams, an eight-time winner of what she considers her home event, can count on having the American crowd in their corner as will John Isner, who is back to defend his crown.

Serena, whose name is not among the 13 women's winners this season, has sister Venus in her quarter of the draw along with the always dangerous second-seeded Romanian Simona Halep.

The men's draw is also thick with former champions led by six times winner and world number one Djokovic and three-time winner Federer.

The Swiss comes to Florida in superb form after collecting his 100th career win in Dubai and coming off a finals appearance in Indian Wells but will be on alert after crashing out in the first round here a year ago.

World number one Osaka will also be wary with in-form German Angelique Kerber, a losing finalist in Indian Wells, lurking in her quarter.

Rain wiped out the opening day play at the Miami Open on Tuesday, delaying the start of the tournament at its new Hard Rock Stadium home. Having outgrown the cramped quarters of Key Biscayne's Crandon Park, and unable to secure the necessary approvals to renovate and expand, the Miami Open has moved to the home of the NFL's Miami Dolphins but the day-long rain spoilt the moment.

Rain wiped out the opening day play at the Miami Open on Tuesday, delaying the start of the tournament at its new Hard Rock Stadium home. Having outgrown the cramped quarters of Key Biscayne's Crandon Park, and unable to secure the necessary approvals to renovate and expand, the Miami Open has moved to the home of the NFL's Miami Dolphins but the day-long rain spoilt the moment. With a 25 per cent jump in ticket sales, tournament director James Blake, the former world number four, had been expecting a record crowd but instead, the 14,000 seats temporary show court inside the stadium stood empty and the luxury boxes were silent. Germany's Andrea Petkovic and 17-year-old American Amanda Anisimova were scheduled to christen the action on the main show court with Mari Osaka, the sister of Japanese world number one Naomi Osaka, taking on Whitney Osuigwe in the nightcap. Tuesday's first-round play was supposed to be a dress rehearsal for Wednesday's official opening, which will see Serena Williams, who is a part-owner in the Dolphins, Roger Federer and world number ones Novak Djokovic and Naomi Osaka taking part in a ribbon-cutting ceremony. "When we get through the first day or two and see what we are in store for I have a feeling we will be announcing a lot of (attendance) records broken this year," American Blake told Reuters in a pre-tournament interview. "I don't want to be too pie-in-the-sky but I do think we are going to break a records." Once the rain disappears fans can expect a wide open tournament if the season follows the current trend. There have been 19 ATP Tour events this season and 13 WTA events each producing a different winner. Bianca Andreescu, the 18-year-old Canadian who stunned the field in Indian Wells last week to claim her first career win, is on that list and comes to Miami looking to complete what would be an even more unlikely Sunshine Double. Sloane Stephens, the reigning Miami champion, and Serena Williams, an eight-time winner of what she considers her home event, can count on having the American crowd in their corner as will John Isner, who is back to defend his crown. Serena, whose name is not among the 13 women's winners this season, has sister Venus in her quarter of the draw along with the always dangerous second-seeded Romanian Simona Halep. The men's draw is also thick with former champions led by six times winner and world number one Djokovic and three-time winner Federer. The Swiss comes to Florida in superb form after collecting his 100th career win in Dubai and coming off a finals appearance in Indian Wells but will be on alert after crashing out in the first round here a year ago. World number one Osaka will also be wary with in-form German Angelique Kerber, a losing finalist in Indian Wells, lurking in her quarter.

Incessant rain washes out opening day of Miami Open

John Isner finally put an end to his ATP Masters final agony on Sunday, winning the Miami Open for the first time by beating Germany's Alexander Zverev 6-7 (4/7), 6-4, 6-4.

The 14th seed had lost his previous three major tour final appearances in 2012, 2013 and 2016 but came back from a set down to beat Zverev in&nbsptwo hours and 29 minutes.

The victory capped a superb tournament for Isner, who endured a difficult start to 2018 which included an early-round exit at Indian Wells in his lead-in to Miami.

"I couldn't have scripted this. I came into this tournament, I won one ATP [World Tour] match all year and was playing very poorly," Isner said.&nbsp

"I won my first match in three sets and that's how tennis goes — you start to gain a little confidence and next thing you know things start to roll your way."

Isner is the first US player since Andy Roddick in 2010 to lift the Miami title.

Isner will also reclaim a career high world ranking of ninth after the victory, the 13th title of his career.

"It’s up to me now to keep pushing forward," he said. “To get over the hump in tournaments like this is a big thing mentally for me.

"We cleared that hurdle this week. I went into every match super fresh and loose. I will be a force if I can continue to play freely."

Both Zverev and Isner were faultless in their service games and the first set predictably went the distance before fourth seed Zverev prevailed when Isner sprayed a backhand wide.

The break, however, finally came for Isner at 4-4 in the second set and when Zverev, who missed the chance to return to number three in the world with this defeat, failed to hold at 5-4 in the third, Isner sealed the best win of his career with an ace.

The German, whose frustrations boiled over when he smashed his racket on the ground after that critical break, proved his billing as one of stars of the future by making his third Masters final and now heads to Spain where Germany play in the quarter-final of the Davis Cup.

"I missed more shots today than I did the whole tournament. I played badly from the baseline but it’s not easy against John," said Zverev who admitted he will have just one day of practice before taking on the Spaniards in Valencia. "He always makes it difficult.

"I kind of lost the match myself but I have known him since I was 14 so although I am never happy to lose, I am happy for him that he’s won his first Masters."

It was a fitting way for American players to say goodbye to Key Biscayne, home of the Miami Open for the last 32 years, before the move to Hard Rock Stadium next year. Florida born Sloane Stephens won the women’s title on Saturday before Isner stepped up to the plate 24 hours later.

"With the atmosphere and the support, it was amazing," said Isner.

"You just can't replicate that and for me to come out the winner in the last men's single match ever here is unique."

The victory capped a superb tournament for Isner, who endured a difficult start to 2018 which included an early-round exit at Indian Wells in his lead-in to Miami

John Isner finally put an end to his ATP Masters final agony on Sunday, winning the Miami Open for the first time by beating Germany's Alexander Zverev 6-7 (4/7), 6-4, 6-4. The 14th seed had lost his previous three major tour final appearances in 2012, 2013 and 2016 but came back from a set down to beat Zverev in&nbsptwo hours and 29 minutes. The victory capped a superb tournament for Isner, who endured a difficult start to 2018 which included an early-round exit at Indian Wells in his lead-in to Miami. "I couldn't have scripted this. I came into this tournament, I won one ATP [World Tour] match all year and was playing very poorly," Isner said. "I won my first match in three sets and that's how tennis goes — you start to gain a little confidence and next thing you know things start to roll your way." Isner is the first US player since Andy Roddick in 2010 to lift the Miami title. Isner will also reclaim a career high world ranking of ninth after the victory, the 13th title of his career. "It’s up to me now to keep pushing forward," he said. “To get over the hump in tournaments like this is a big thing mentally for me. "We cleared that hurdle this week. I went into every match super fresh and loose. I will be a force if I can continue to play freely." Both Zverev and Isner were faultless in their service games and the first set predictably went the distance before fourth seed Zverev prevailed when Isner sprayed a backhand wide. The break, however, finally came for Isner at 4-4 in the second set and when Zverev, who missed the chance to return to number three in the world with this defeat, failed to hold at 5-4 in the third, Isner sealed the best win of his career with an ace. The German, whose frustrations boiled over when he smashed his racket on the ground after that critical break, proved his billing as one of stars of the future by making his third Masters final and now heads to Spain where Germany play in the quarter-final of the Davis Cup. "I missed more shots today than I did the whole tournament. I played badly from the baseline but it’s not easy against John," said Zverev who admitted he will have just one day of practice before taking on the Spaniards in Valencia. "He always makes it difficult. "I kind of lost the match myself but I have known him since I was 14 so although I am never happy to lose, I am happy for him that he’s won his first Masters." It was a fitting way for American players to say goodbye to Key Biscayne, home of the Miami Open for the last 32 years, before the move to Hard Rock Stadium next year. Florida born Sloane Stephens won the women’s title on Saturday before Isner stepped up to the plate 24 hours later. "With the atmosphere and the support, it was amazing," said Isner. "You just can't replicate that and for me to come out the winner in the last men's single match ever here is unique."

John Isner outplays Zverev to win Miami Open

Rafael Nadal reclaimed top spot in the men's ATP rankings on Monday a day after Swiss rival Roger Federer crashed out in Miami to American John Isner.

Nadal, who hasn't hit a ball in anger since pulling out of the Australian Open quarter-finals in January, saw Federer take over top spot on February 18.

The Swiss veteran, however, slipped 10 points behind his Spanish rival and into second place after a second round defeat to Isner that saw the towering American leap eight places to ninth thanks to his eventual victory Sunday in the Masters 1000 event.

Isner thus equals his previous best ranking of ninth, reached in April 2012, while beaten finalist Alexander Zverev of Germany moved up one place to fourth.

South Korea's Hyeon Chung meanwhile continued to chip away at the rankings, the 21-year-old breaking into the top 20, to 19th, for the first time in his fledgling career thanks to his quarter-final appearance in Miami.

ATP rankings at April 2(change in ranking in brackets):

1. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 8.770 pts (+1)

2. Roger Federer (SUI) 8.670 (-1)

3. Marin Cilic (CRO) 4.985

4. Alexander Zverev (GER) 4.925 (+1)

5. Grigor Dimitrov (BUL) 4.635 (-1)

6. Juan Martin Del Potro (ARG) 4.470

7. Dominic Thiem (AUT) 3.665

8. Kevin Anderson (RSA) 3.390

9. John Isner (USA) 3.125 (+8)

10. David Goffin (BEL) 3.110 (-1)

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Look who’s back on top! ? 
 
Congrats Rafael Nadal for returning to No. 1 in the ATP Rankings today. 
 
➡️ <a href="https://t.co/5w2P1t0UuA">https://t.co/5w2P1t0UuA</a> <a href="https://t.co/J3w7Oz8Aat">pic.twitter.com/J3w7Oz8Aat</a>
— ATP World Tour (@ATPWorldTour) <a href="https://twitter.com/ATPWorldTour/status/980681869070086144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Rafael Nadal reclaimed top spot in the men's ATP rankings on Monday a day after Swiss rival Roger Federer crashed out in Miami to American John Isner

Rafael Nadal reclaimed top spot in the men's ATP rankings on Monday a day after Swiss rival Roger Federer crashed out in Miami to American John Isner. Nadal, who hasn't hit a ball in anger since pulling out of the Australian Open quarter-finals in January, saw Federer take over top spot on February 18. The Swiss veteran, however, slipped 10 points behind his Spanish rival and into second place after a second round defeat to Isner that saw the towering American leap eight places to ninth thanks to his eventual victory Sunday in the Masters 1000 event. Isner thus equals his previous best ranking of ninth, reached in April 2012, while beaten finalist Alexander Zverev of Germany moved up one place to fourth. South Korea's Hyeon Chung meanwhile continued to chip away at the rankings, the 21-year-old breaking into the top 20, to 19th, for the first time in his fledgling career thanks to his quarter-final appearance in Miami. ATP rankings at April 2(change in ranking in brackets): 1. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 8.770 pts (+1) 2. Roger Federer (SUI) 8.670 (-1) 3. Marin Cilic (CRO) 4.985 4. Alexander Zverev (GER) 4.925 (+1) 5. Grigor Dimitrov (BUL) 4.635 (-1) 6. Juan Martin Del Potro (ARG) 4.470 7. Dominic Thiem (AUT) 3.665 8. Kevin Anderson (RSA) 3.390 9. John Isner (USA) 3.125 (+8) 10. David Goffin (BEL) 3.110 (-1) Look who’s back on top! ? Congrats Rafael Nadal for returning to No. 1 in the ATP Rankings today. ➡️ https://t.co/5w2P1t0UuA pic.twitter.com/J3w7Oz8Aat — ATP World Tour (@ATPWorldTour) April 2, 2018 ×

Rafael Nadal reclaims ATP top spot as Federer slips

German tennis star Alexander Zverev showcased his finest tennis of the season to brush aside Pablo Carreno Busta of Spain and cement her spot in the finals of the Miami Masters here on Saturday.

The 20-year-old surged past Busta 7-6(4), 6-2 in an exhilarating semi-final clash that lasted one hour and 28 minutes on Crandon Park`s Stadium court.

Zverev, who last year became the youngest player since Serbia`s Novak Djokovic to clinch multiple ATP World Tour Masters 1000 titles in one season with victories in Rome and Montrea, struck 30 winners and won a total of 78 per cent of service points while making just 21 unforced errors.

Following the win, the fifth-seeded player revealed that he tried to be more aggressive in the tie-breaker and then he made some backhand winners which helped him in finding the rhythm during the match.

"I tried to be more aggressive. I made some winners made some backhand winners finally in the match and found my rhythm.I think after that, I started to play really well, not only in the tie-break but also the second set," the ATP quoted Zverer, as saying.

The triumph will see him surge to at least number fourth spot in the ATP Rankings which will release next week.

In case Zverer went on to grab the title, he would return to his career-high ranking of number three.

With the win, Zeverer has now set up a summit showdown clash against American John Isner, who eased past Juan Martin del Potro in straight sets earlier in the day.

The 20-year-old surged past Busta 7-6(4), 6-2 in an exhilarating semi-final clash

German tennis star Alexander Zverev showcased his finest tennis of the season to brush aside Pablo Carreno Busta of Spain and cement her spot in the finals of the Miami Masters here on Saturday. The 20-year-old surged past Busta 7-6(4), 6-2 in an exhilarating semi-final clash that lasted one hour and 28 minutes on Crandon Park`s Stadium court. Zverev, who last year became the youngest player since Serbia`s Novak Djokovic to clinch multiple ATP World Tour Masters 1000 titles in one season with victories in Rome and Montrea, struck 30 winners and won a total of 78 per cent of service points while making just 21 unforced errors. Following the win, the fifth-seeded player revealed that he tried to be more aggressive in the tie-breaker and then he made some backhand winners which helped him in finding the rhythm during the match. "I tried to be more aggressive. I made some winners made some backhand winners finally in the match and found my rhythm.I think after that, I started to play really well, not only in the tie-break but also the second set," the ATP quoted Zverer, as saying. The triumph will see him surge to at least number fourth spot in the ATP Rankings which will release next week. In case Zverer went on to grab the title, he would return to his career-high ranking of number three. With the win, Zeverer has now set up a summit showdown clash against American John Isner, who eased past Juan Martin del Potro in straight sets earlier in the day.

Miami Open: Alexander Zverev rolls into final, to face Isner

Alexander Zverev remains on target for his third ATP Masters title after dismantling Borna Coric 6-4, 6-4 to set up a meeting with Pablo Carreno Busta for a place in Sunday’s Miami Open final.

The German world number five produced a supremely solid display and was excellent value for this deserved victory against Coric who was ultimately overpowered and outmaneuvered.

Zverev, who enjoyed a breakthrough year in 2017 after winning the Italian Open in Rome and the Canada Masters by beating Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer respectively, is keen for more of the same at Key Biscayne.

"The times we played before, he just better than me," said Zverev, who will move to number three in the world if he manages to win Sunday’s final.

"I am really happy to have made it through against him. Carreno Busta will be a very difficult match, he’s playing really well now.

"It is going to be a big test but I am looking forward to it."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
See you in the semis, Sascha. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MiamiOpen?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MiamiOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/V05Ue83jV3">pic.twitter.com/V05Ue83jV3</a>
— Miami Open (@MiamiOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/MiamiOpen/status/979540365085638656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Play was delayed for over an hour because of a problem with the Crandon Park floodlights but when the action finally began, the restless crowd were treated to an absorbing match-up between two of the rising stars of the men’s game.

And in the end it was Zverev who emerged victorious after just 84 minutes, executing the perfect balance between pressurizing the Coric serve, and comfortably holding his own.

Zverev, 20, had lost both his previous matches against the 21-year-old Croatian, at Cincinnati in 2015 and two years later at the US Open. Yet the German started well in the bid to finally get to the Miami last four after losing at this stage for the previous two years.

With his serve reaching 137 mph, he was able to keep Coric in check while adopting the an aggressive mindset.

Carreno Busta has never played Zverev before. He will head into Friday night’s match full of confidence after beating Anderson in a dramatic third set tie-break.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Semis for Sascha ? 
 
Zverev nets his first career win over Coric 6-4, 6-4 to reach maiden <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MiamiOpen?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MiamiOpen</a> semifinals. <a href="https://t.co/5o36zzoPEK">pic.twitter.com/5o36zzoPEK</a>
— Miami Open (@MiamiOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/MiamiOpen/status/979536448155279362?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Anderson had saved two match points in the second set but the gleeful Spaniard eventually prevailed, reaching his second ATP Masters semi-final.

It was just his second win over a top 10 player in 23 attempts, and his first over Anderson in five attempts.

"It was an amazing match, no?," said the world No. 19. "I lost last week with him, 7-6 in the third set. And today, well, at the beginning of the match I started to play really well. I was returning good, serving good, being very aggressive.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
PCB ➡️ SFs<a href="https://twitter.com/pablocarreno91?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@pablocarreno91</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MiamiOpen?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MiamiOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/qcNnR7gEgQ">pic.twitter.com/qcNnR7gEgQ</a>
— Miami Open (@MiamiOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/MiamiOpen/status/979493249231581185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"I served for the match in the second set, 40-15, and he played some unbelievable points, passing shots, returning really good, winner with his forehand.

"After that it was a really tough mental moment for me. But I continued fighting.

"It's a very important victory for me against him. I am so happy to be in the semi-finals."

Juan Martin del Potro and John Isner will contest the first semi-final on Friday afternoon.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Incoming ?<a href="https://twitter.com/pablocarreno91?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@pablocarreno91</a> delivers in three 6-4, 5-7, 7-6(6) over Anderson to stamp a semi-final spot!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MiamiOpen?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MiamiOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/Gb9oufzDqp">pic.twitter.com/Gb9oufzDqp</a>
— Miami Open (@MiamiOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/MiamiOpen/status/979483811632308224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp

Alexander Zverev remains on target for his third ATP Masters title after dismantling Borna Coric 6-4, 6-4 to set up a meeting with Pablo Carreno Busta for a place in Sunday’s Miami Open final

Alexander Zverev remains on target for his third ATP Masters title after dismantling Borna Coric 6-4, 6-4 to set up a meeting with Pablo Carreno Busta for a place in Sunday’s Miami Open final. The German world number five produced a supremely solid display and was excellent value for this deserved victory against Coric who was ultimately overpowered and outmaneuvered. Zverev, who enjoyed a breakthrough year in 2017 after winning the Italian Open in Rome and the Canada Masters by beating Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer respectively, is keen for more of the same at Key Biscayne. "The times we played before, he just better than me," said Zverev, who will move to number three in the world if he manages to win Sunday’s final. "I am really happy to have made it through against him. Carreno Busta will be a very difficult match, he’s playing really well now. "It is going to be a big test but I am looking forward to it." See you in the semis, Sascha. #MiamiOpen pic.twitter.com/V05Ue83jV3 — Miami Open (@MiamiOpen) March 30, 2018 × Play was delayed for over an hour because of a problem with the Crandon Park floodlights but when the action finally began, the restless crowd were treated to an absorbing match-up between two of the rising stars of the men’s game. And in the end it was Zverev who emerged victorious after just 84 minutes, executing the perfect balance between pressurizing the Coric serve, and comfortably holding his own. Zverev, 20, had lost both his previous matches against the 21-year-old Croatian, at Cincinnati in 2015 and two years later at the US Open. Yet the German started well in the bid to finally get to the Miami last four after losing at this stage for the previous two years. With his serve reaching 137 mph, he was able to keep Coric in check while adopting the an aggressive mindset. Carreno Busta has never played Zverev before. He will head into Friday night’s match full of confidence after beating Anderson in a dramatic third set tie-break. Semis for Sascha ? Zverev nets his first career win over Coric 6-4, 6-4 to reach maiden #MiamiOpen semifinals. pic.twitter.com/5o36zzoPEK — Miami Open (@MiamiOpen) March 30, 2018 × Anderson had saved two match points in the second set but the gleeful Spaniard eventually prevailed, reaching his second ATP Masters semi-final. It was just his second win over a top 10 player in 23 attempts, and his first over Anderson in five attempts. "It was an amazing match, no?," said the world No. 19. "I lost last week with him, 7-6 in the third set. And today, well, at the beginning of the match I started to play really well. I was returning good, serving good, being very aggressive. PCB ➡️ SFs@pablocarreno91 #MiamiOpen pic.twitter.com/qcNnR7gEgQ — Miami Open (@MiamiOpen) March 29, 2018 × "I served for the match in the second set, 40-15, and he played some unbelievable points, passing shots, returning really good, winner with his forehand. "After that it was a really tough mental moment for me. But I continued fighting. "It's a very important victory for me against him. I am so happy to be in the semi-finals." Juan Martin del Potro and John Isner will contest the first semi-final on Friday afternoon. Incoming ?@pablocarreno91 delivers in three 6-4, 5-7, 7-6(6) over Anderson to stamp a semi-final spot!#MiamiOpen pic.twitter.com/Gb9oufzDqp — Miami Open (@MiamiOpen) March 29, 2018 ×

Carreno Busta, Zverev enter Miami Open semi-finals

South Africa's Kevin Anderson once again failed to reach the last four of the Miami Open as he suffered a three-set defeat from Pablo Carreno Busta here on Friday.

The Spanish world number 19 prevailed over the South African 6-4, 5-7, 7-6 in a match which lasted for over two hours and 45 minutes.

The South African tennis ace and the current world No 8 was taking the Miami hardcourt for the 10th time but yet again failed to make it to the semi-finals of the event.

It was Anderson and Busta`s third meeting recently after the former defeated Busta in a final set tie-breaker earlier this month in Indian Wells and the US Open semi-finals last year.

"It was an amazing match, no&nbspI lost to him, 7-6 in the third set [at Indian Wells]. And today, well, at the beginning of the match I started playing really good, returning good, serving good, being very aggressive," Carreno Busta said post his win.

He added, "I am very happy with the victory because it`s very important to me... and also to be in the semi-finals in this tournament."Carreno Busta will now try to make his maiden Masters 1000 final when he takes on Germany`s Alexander Zverev who beat Borna Coric 6-4, 6-4.

He suffered a three-set defeat from Pablo Carreno Busta

South Africa's Kevin Anderson once again failed to reach the last four of the Miami Open as he suffered a three-set defeat from Pablo Carreno Busta here on Friday. The Spanish world number 19 prevailed over the South African 6-4, 5-7, 7-6 in a match which lasted for over two hours and 45 minutes. The South African tennis ace and the current world No 8 was taking the Miami hardcourt for the 10th time but yet again failed to make it to the semi-finals of the event. It was Anderson and Busta`s third meeting recently after the former defeated Busta in a final set tie-breaker earlier this month in Indian Wells and the US Open semi-finals last year. "It was an amazing match, no&nbspI lost to him, 7-6 in the third set [at Indian Wells]. And today, well, at the beginning of the match I started playing really good, returning good, serving good, being very aggressive," Carreno Busta said post his win. He added, "I am very happy with the victory because it`s very important to me... and also to be in the semi-finals in this tournament."Carreno Busta will now try to make his maiden Masters 1000 final when he takes on Germany`s Alexander Zverev who beat Borna Coric 6-4, 6-4.

Kevin Anderson crashes out in Miami Open quarters

miami-open

Miami Open, News on Miami Open, stories on Miami Open, articles on Miami Open, Miami Open stories at Wion, Miami Open news, Miami Open latest news

miami open

Top-seeded Medvedev toils into Miami Open fourth round

Daniil Medvedev says new moustache might not last beyond Miami

'Never give up': Ash Barty claws back and beats Kristina Kucova at Miami Open

Venus Williams dumped out of Miami Open first round

'I am disappointed': Serena Williams withdraws from Miami Open

Serb ace Novak Djokovic set to return on court at Miami Open

WTA rankings: Simona Halep closes on world no.1 Naomi Osaka

Roger Federer downs injured John Isner in Miami for 101st career title

Ashleigh Barty beats Karolina Pliskova to win maiden Miami Open title

Miami Open: Roger Federer to face John Isner in final

Roger Federer: 'Will be a goalie' against John Isner in Miami Open final

Miami Open: Czech Karolina Pliskova and Aussie Ashleigh Barty to meet in final

Miami Open: Roger Federer beats Kevin Anderson to set up Denis Shapovalov clash

Miami Open: Roger Federer beats Kevin Anderson to set up Denis Shapovalov clash

Miami Open: Simona Halep sees off Wang Qiang, will face Karolina Pliskova in semis

Miami Open: Roger Federer eases past Daniil Medvedev into quarters

Roberto Bautista Agut beats Novak Djokovic to reach Miami quarters, Kyrgios out

Miami Open: Roger Federer, Kevin Anderson advance to fourth round

Underarm or underhanded? Nick Kyrgios serve stokes debate

Miami Open: Novak Djokovic defeats Federico Delbonis to enter fourth round

Roger Federer fights back to beat Radu Albot in Miami Open

Serena Williams withdraws from Miami Open with knee injury

Miami Open: Kei Nishikori stunned by Lajovic in second round

Naomi Osaka enjoys rollercoaster win in Miami