World number three Alexander Zverev outclassed Federico Delbonis 6-1 7-5 in Monte Carlo on Wednesday to reach the last 16 of the Masters tournament after top seeds Carlos Alcaraz and Felix-Auger Aliassime crashed out.

Zverev, who took to court as the highest ranked player remaining in the tournament, lost the first four points of the match but breezed through the first set in just over 20 minutes and dropped only three points on serve.

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The 24-year-old was tested by Delbonis in the second, fighting back from 2-4 down and winning the next 11 points to move within a game of victory before converting his third match point.

"It`s not bad for a change of surface after Miami, you have to take that into consideration a little bit. I`m happy with the win," said Zverev, who lost to Norwegian Casper Ruud in the quarter-final of the hardcourt event.

The German`s best run in the Principality tournament was 2018 when he reached the semi-finals, while he exited last year in the third round.

"I know that I have to play much better," Zverev added. "This is the only Masters on clay that I haven`t won. I`m very motivated to do that and hope I can show it on court this week.

Earlier, unseeded American Sebastian Korda mastered the windy conditions to topple world number 11 Alcaraz 7-6(2) 6-7(5) 6-3 in an entertaining battle that lasted just over three hours, with both players struggling for rhythm.

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"After losing to a Spaniard in Indian Wells and serving for it, it was nice to get a victory today," said the 21-year-old Korda, who pushed Rafa Nadal to a third-set tiebreak at the California tournament. "It was a crazy match!"

Korda will take on compatriot and Indian Wells winner Taylor Fritz after he beat former U.S. Open champion Marin Cilic 6-3 4-6 6-4 while Zverev will face Pablo Carreno Busta, who advanced after Alexander Bublik retired in the third set.

Miami Open champion Alcaraz followed top seed Novak Djokovic out of the tournament and was joined by Auger-Aliassime as the Canadian world number nine fell 6-2 7-6(2) to an inspired Lorenzo Mussett in front of a raucous crowd.

Last year`s finalist Andrey Rublev prevailed 2-6 6-1 6-4 over Alex de Minaur, fourth seed Ruud saw off Holger Rune 7-6(5) 7-5 and Jannik Sinner got past Finnish qualifier Emil Ruusuvuori 7-5 6-3 in other second-round matches.

World number three Alexander Zverev outclassed Federico Delbonis 6-1 7-5 in Monte Carlo on Wednesday to reach the last 16 of the Masters tournament after top seeds Carlos Alcaraz and Felix-Auger Aliassime crashed out.

World number three Alexander Zverev outclassed Federico Delbonis 6-1 7-5 in Monte Carlo on Wednesday to reach the last 16 of the Masters tournament after top seeds Carlos Alcaraz and Felix-Auger Aliassime crashed out. Zverev, who took to court as the highest ranked player remaining in the tournament, lost the first four points of the match but breezed through the first set in just over 20 minutes and dropped only three points on serve. Also read | Firmino fires Liverpool into Champions League semis with win over Benfica The 24-year-old was tested by Delbonis in the second, fighting back from 2-4 down and winning the next 11 points to move within a game of victory before converting his third match point. "It`s not bad for a change of surface after Miami, you have to take that into consideration a little bit. I`m happy with the win," said Zverev, who lost to Norwegian Casper Ruud in the quarter-final of the hardcourt event. The German`s best run in the Principality tournament was 2018 when he reached the semi-finals, while he exited last year in the third round. "I know that I have to play much better," Zverev added. "This is the only Masters on clay that I haven`t won. I`m very motivated to do that and hope I can show it on court this week. Earlier, unseeded American Sebastian Korda mastered the windy conditions to topple world number 11 Alcaraz 7-6(2) 6-7(5) 6-3 in an entertaining battle that lasted just over three hours, with both players struggling for rhythm. Also read | KL Rahul to Pat Cummins: Batters with fastest fifties in IPL history "After losing to a Spaniard in Indian Wells and serving for it, it was nice to get a victory today," said the 21-year-old Korda, who pushed Rafa Nadal to a third-set tiebreak at the California tournament. "It was a crazy match!" Korda will take on compatriot and Indian Wells winner Taylor Fritz after he beat former U.S. Open champion Marin Cilic 6-3 4-6 6-4 while Zverev will face Pablo Carreno Busta, who advanced after Alexander Bublik retired in the third set. Miami Open champion Alcaraz followed top seed Novak Djokovic out of the tournament and was joined by Auger-Aliassime as the Canadian world number nine fell 6-2 7-6(2) to an inspired Lorenzo Mussett in front of a raucous crowd. Last year`s finalist Andrey Rublev prevailed 2-6 6-1 6-4 over Alex de Minaur, fourth seed Ruud saw off Holger Rune 7-6(5) 7-5 and Jannik Sinner got past Finnish qualifier Emil Ruusuvuori 7-5 6-3 in other second-round matches.

Monte Carlo Masters: Alexander Zverev cruises into last 16, Carlos Alcaraz crashes out

Novak Djokovic said he felt drained of energy towards the end of his loss to Alejandro Davidovich Fokina in the second round of the Monte Carlo Masters on Tuesday, admitting that the defeat was almost inevitable going into the final set.

Playing in his fourth match of the season after he was denied a chance to defend his Australian Open title in January due to being unvaccinated against COVID-19, Djokovic was broken nine times and made 51 unforced errors in a 6-3 6-7(5) 6-1 defeat by the Spaniard.

"I`m disappointed. No one likes to lose. We`re professional athletes. This is what we do. We go out on the court to compete and try to win against each other," Djokovic, who has triumphed in Monaco twice, told reporters.

"I didn`t like the way I felt physically in the third set. I just ran out of the gas completely. Just couldn`t really stay in the rally with him. If you can`t stay in the rally, not feeling your legs on the clay, it`s mission impossible.

"So I don`t like that feeling I experienced in the third set but I`m going to look with my team into reasons why that was the case and go back to the drawing board and hopefully next week will be better in Belgrade."

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Djokovic said he hoped to build his form for the French Open starting next month, where he will defend his crown.

"That`s the big goal of the clay season," Djokovic said. "I knew a few days ago when I spoke to you... that it`s going to take time for me to really feel my best on the clay.

"That`s historically always been the case. Never played very well in the opening tournaments of the clay season. But it`s OK... I have to accept the defeat and keep working."

Novak Djokovic said he felt drained of energy towards the end of his loss to Alejandro Davidovich Fokina in the second round of the Monte Carlo Masters on Tuesday, admitting that the defeat was almost inevitable going into the final set.

Novak Djokovic said he felt drained of energy towards the end of his loss to Alejandro Davidovich Fokina in the second round of the Monte Carlo Masters on Tuesday, admitting that the defeat was almost inevitable going into the final set. Playing in his fourth match of the season after he was denied a chance to defend his Australian Open title in January due to being unvaccinated against COVID-19, Djokovic was broken nine times and made 51 unforced errors in a 6-3 6-7(5) 6-1 defeat by the Spaniard. "I`m disappointed. No one likes to lose. We`re professional athletes. This is what we do. We go out on the court to compete and try to win against each other," Djokovic, who has triumphed in Monaco twice, told reporters. "I didn`t like the way I felt physically in the third set. I just ran out of the gas completely. Just couldn`t really stay in the rally with him. If you can`t stay in the rally, not feeling your legs on the clay, it`s mission impossible. "So I don`t like that feeling I experienced in the third set but I`m going to look with my team into reasons why that was the case and go back to the drawing board and hopefully next week will be better in Belgrade." Also Read: Samuel Chukwueze's late equaliser helps Villarreal shock Bayern Munich to reach Champions League semis Djokovic said he hoped to build his form for the French Open starting next month, where he will defend his crown. "That`s the big goal of the clay season," Djokovic said. "I knew a few days ago when I spoke to you... that it`s going to take time for me to really feel my best on the clay. "That`s historically always been the case. Never played very well in the opening tournaments of the clay season. But it`s OK... I have to accept the defeat and keep working."

Novak Djokovic says he ran out of gas in defeat against Alejandro Davidovich Fokina at Monte Carlo Masters

Former U.S. Open champion Dominic Thiem has pulled out of next week's ATP Masters tournament in Monte Carlo due to COVID-19, his team said on Thursday.

The 28-year-old, who twice finished runner-up at the French Open and once at the Australian Open before winning the 2020 U.S. Open title, contracted the virus at an ATP Challenger Tour event in Marbella, Spain last week.

Thiem said in a social media post on Thursday that he has tested negative and will undergo a medical check-up to determine his return to competitive action.

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Playing his first match in nine months since suffering a wrist injury at the 2021 Mallorca Open, former world number three Thiem went down in straight sets to Argentine Pedro Cachin in Marbella.

He will return home to Austria and will miss the April 11-17 claycourt tournament in Monte Carlo, his spokesperson confirmed.

Wimbledon finalist Matteo Berrettini will also be out of Monte Carlo and subsequent Masters 1000 events in Madrid and Rome next month after undergoing a minor operation on his playing hand last week following his withdrawal from Miami.

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"Following advice from the medical experts, my team and I have decided that it is crucial I do not put time pressure on my recovery process," the Italian world number six said on Instagram.

"Withdrawing from these events, particularly Rome, was an extremely tough decision, however it is the right one to ensure many more years of competing at the highest level for the biggest trophies."

Former U.S. Open champion Dominic Thiem has pulled out of next week's ATP Masters tournament in Monte Carlo due to COVID-19, his team said on Thursday. The 28-year-old, who twice finished runner-up at the French Open and once at the Australian Open before winning the 2020 U.

Former U.S. Open champion Dominic Thiem has pulled out of next week's ATP Masters tournament in Monte Carlo due to COVID-19, his team said on Thursday. The 28-year-old, who twice finished runner-up at the French Open and once at the Australian Open before winning the 2020 U.S. Open title, contracted the virus at an ATP Challenger Tour event in Marbella, Spain last week. Thiem said in a social media post on Thursday that he has tested negative and will undergo a medical check-up to determine his return to competitive action. ALSO READ: Former World No. 5 Jo-Wilfried Tsonga to retire after French Open 2022 Playing his first match in nine months since suffering a wrist injury at the 2021 Mallorca Open, former world number three Thiem went down in straight sets to Argentine Pedro Cachin in Marbella. He will return home to Austria and will miss the April 11-17 claycourt tournament in Monte Carlo, his spokesperson confirmed. Wimbledon finalist Matteo Berrettini will also be out of Monte Carlo and subsequent Masters 1000 events in Madrid and Rome next month after undergoing a minor operation on his playing hand last week following his withdrawal from Miami. ALSO READ: Korea Open: PV Sindhu outclasses Aya Ohori to enter quarter-finals, Kidambi Srikanth defeats Misha Zilberman "Following advice from the medical experts, my team and I have decided that it is crucial I do not put time pressure on my recovery process," the Italian world number six said on Instagram. "Withdrawing from these events, particularly Rome, was an extremely tough decision, however it is the right one to ensure many more years of competing at the highest level for the biggest trophies."

Dominic Thiem, Matteo Berrettini withdraw from Monte Carlo Masters due to COVID, injury

Rafael Nadal's bid for a 12th Monte Carlo Masters title was shattered by Russia's Andrey Rublev, who swept to a 6-2, 4-6, 6-2 quarter-final win on Friday with the great Spaniard admitting his serve was "a disaster".

Nadal, bidding to reach the semi-finals of a Masters for the 75th time, followed world number one Novak Djokovic, who was beaten in the third round, out of the tournament.

"Today was one of those days that my serve was a disaster," said world number three Nadal.

"It's always sad to lose here. I missed an opportunity to start the clay court season in the right way. But that's it. It's not the moment to complain.

"The only thing that I can do is go to Barcelona (where he plays next week) and keep practicing, try to fix the things that didn't work well."

Despite Friday's setback, 34-year-old Nadal will still be favourite to capture a 13th Roland Garros title in June and record-setting 21st major.

"For Rafa, it must be incredibly difficult to play with this pressure of always having to win," said Rublev who also made the Miami Masters semi-finals at the start of April.&nbsp;

"I'm shocked to see the level which he can reach despite this pressure. It's much easier to play when you have nothing to lose."

It was only the second time in 16 appearances in Monte Carlo that Nadal had failed to make the semi-finals.

World number eight Rublev will face unseeded Casper Ruud, who put out defending champion Fabio Fognini, for a place in the final.

The other semi-final will feature Greek fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas against Britain's Dan Evans, the man who shocked Djokovic.

Tsitsipas is now the highest seed left after world number two Daniil Medvedev was forced to withdraw due to a positive Covid-19 test.

Rublev is no stranger to taking out the big names -- back in 2019, he stunned Roger Federer at Cincinnati in just 62 minutes.

On Friday, the 23-year-old won the first set in 38 minutes but Nadal then pocketed the last four games of the 73-minute second set to level the contest.

<h2>- Rublev 'deserved it' -</h2>

In the decider, Rublev held his nerve, breaking the Spaniard three times on his way to a famous win, his first in three meetings with Nadal.

"He played well, he deserved it more than me," added Nadal.

"But you can't expect win against a player like him losing my serve I don't know how many times -- six, seven times? It's too much."

Tsitsipas advanced to the last-four when Alejandro Davidovich withdrew after losing the first set 7-5.

Tsitsipas, the world number five, will play his sixth Masters semi-final, and his first in the principality, against Evans, who battled past Belgian David Goffin 5-7,&nbsp;6-3,&nbsp;6-4.

Struggling with an injury to his left thigh, Spaniard Davidovich tried an underarm serve when facing set point.&nbsp;

Tsitsipas pounced to hit a winning backhand return with his opponent quitting after dropping the opener 7-5.&nbsp;

"I noticed he was hurt. His leg was hurting. But I didn't want to think about it, I tried to pretend he wasn't injured and keep playing as I was doing," said Tsitsipas.&nbsp;

Evans edged Goffin after the Belgian made 47 unforced errors, including a final forehand on match point, to win.&nbsp;

"I played good today. I felt a bit more pressure to not just win yesterday and give a bad performance today," said Evans, 30.

Unseeded Ruud won 6-4, 6-3 against 15th seeded Fognini, making the last four in Monte Carlo 24 years after his father Christian had reached the quarter-finals.

Rublev holds a 3-0 record against Ruud, which includes back-to-back clay-court wins at Hamburg in 2019 and 2020.

"I've gained good confidence from this week and I've beaten good players," Ruud said.&nbsp;

"I have to try to find a way to believe that I can win."

Rafael Nadal's bid for a 12th Monte Carlo Masters title was shattered by Russia's Andrey Rublev, who swept to a 6-2, 4-6, 6-2 quarter-final win on Friday with the great Spaniard admitting his serve was "a disaster".

Rafael Nadal's bid for a 12th Monte Carlo Masters title was shattered by Russia's Andrey Rublev, who swept to a 6-2, 4-6, 6-2 quarter-final win on Friday with the great Spaniard admitting his serve was "a disaster". Nadal, bidding to reach the semi-finals of a Masters for the 75th time, followed world number one Novak Djokovic, who was beaten in the third round, out of the tournament. "Today was one of those days that my serve was a disaster," said world number three Nadal. "It's always sad to lose here. I missed an opportunity to start the clay court season in the right way. But that's it. It's not the moment to complain. "The only thing that I can do is go to Barcelona (where he plays next week) and keep practicing, try to fix the things that didn't work well." Despite Friday's setback, 34-year-old Nadal will still be favourite to capture a 13th Roland Garros title in June and record-setting 21st major. "For Rafa, it must be incredibly difficult to play with this pressure of always having to win," said Rublev who also made the Miami Masters semi-finals at the start of April. "I'm shocked to see the level which he can reach despite this pressure. It's much easier to play when you have nothing to lose." It was only the second time in 16 appearances in Monte Carlo that Nadal had failed to make the semi-finals. World number eight Rublev will face unseeded Casper Ruud, who put out defending champion Fabio Fognini, for a place in the final. The other semi-final will feature Greek fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas against Britain's Dan Evans, the man who shocked Djokovic. Tsitsipas is now the highest seed left after world number two Daniil Medvedev was forced to withdraw due to a positive Covid-19 test. Rublev is no stranger to taking out the big names -- back in 2019, he stunned Roger Federer at Cincinnati in just 62 minutes. On Friday, the 23-year-old won the first set in 38 minutes but Nadal then pocketed the last four games of the 73-minute second set to level the contest. - Rublev 'deserved it' - In the decider, Rublev held his nerve, breaking the Spaniard three times on his way to a famous win, his first in three meetings with Nadal. "He played well, he deserved it more than me," added Nadal. "But you can't expect win against a player like him losing my serve I don't know how many times -- six, seven times? It's too much." Tsitsipas advanced to the last-four when Alejandro Davidovich withdrew after losing the first set 7-5. Tsitsipas, the world number five, will play his sixth Masters semi-final, and his first in the principality, against Evans, who battled past Belgian David Goffin 5-7, 6-3, 6-4. Struggling with an injury to his left thigh, Spaniard Davidovich tried an underarm serve when facing set point. Tsitsipas pounced to hit a winning backhand return with his opponent quitting after dropping the opener 7-5. "I noticed he was hurt. His leg was hurting. But I didn't want to think about it, I tried to pretend he wasn't injured and keep playing as I was doing," said Tsitsipas. Evans edged Goffin after the Belgian made 47 unforced errors, including a final forehand on match point, to win. "I played good today. I felt a bit more pressure to not just win yesterday and give a bad performance today," said Evans, 30. Unseeded Ruud won 6-4, 6-3 against 15th seeded Fognini, making the last four in Monte Carlo 24 years after his father Christian had reached the quarter-finals. Rublev holds a 3-0 record against Ruud, which includes back-to-back clay-court wins at Hamburg in 2019 and 2020. "I've gained good confidence from this week and I've beaten good players," Ruud said. "I have to try to find a way to believe that I can win."

'Disaster' as Nadal's bid for 12th Monte Carlo title ended by Rublev

Stefanos Tsitsipas made a winning start to the Monte Carlo Masters on Tuesday after the world number five cruised past Aslan Karatsev 6-3, 6-4 and into the last 16.

Greek Tsitsipas, who had been given a bye into the second round, took just one hour and 24 minutes to beat 29th-ranked Russian Karatsev.

The 22-year-old exploited a whopping 32 unforced errors from Karatsev to set up a clash with either Australian John Millman or Chile's Cristian Garin.

Novak Djokovic meanwhile will face Jannik Sinner in his second round match after the up-and-coming Italian saw off Spain's Albert Ramos-Vinolas in straight sets 6-3, 6-4.

Teenager Sinner has risen to 22nd in the world rankings after reaching the final of the Miami Open earlier this month.

"I will definitely have a game plan," Sinner said of what will be his first meeting with Djokovic.

"I know who is on the other side. Obviously it's a tough match I think from my side, because I don't know him that well. I have seen him a lot on TV, watching matches. But when you play against him in a match, it's different. I'm looking forward to that match."

Sinner, one of five Italians to reach the second round Tuesday in Monte Carlo, is 15-5 this year but is competing in the main draw of a Masters 1000 event for just the fourth time.

"It's a good test for my side to see where I am, especially where I can improve," he added. "I know where I can improve, but this kind of match can give me a lot. I just try to go there with the right mentality like in every match."

Earlier on Tuesday, Daniil Medvedev pulled out of the tournament after testing positive for Covid-19.

World number two Medvedev tested positive on Monday having practised with Rafael Nadal the day before.

Organisers, contacted by AFP, declined to comment on whether third seed Nadal risked being identified as a 'close contact' of Medvedev and forced to quarantine.

Nadal is seeded to meet Djokovic in the final as he chases a 12th triumph in Monte Carlo, a key clay court tournament in the run up to the French Open.

Stefanos Tsitsipas made a winning start to the Monte Carlo Masters on Tuesday after the world number five cruised past Aslan Karatsev 6-3, 6-4 and into the last 16.

Stefanos Tsitsipas made a winning start to the Monte Carlo Masters on Tuesday after the world number five cruised past Aslan Karatsev 6-3, 6-4 and into the last 16. Greek Tsitsipas, who had been given a bye into the second round, took just one hour and 24 minutes to beat 29th-ranked Russian Karatsev. The 22-year-old exploited a whopping 32 unforced errors from Karatsev to set up a clash with either Australian John Millman or Chile's Cristian Garin. Novak Djokovic meanwhile will face Jannik Sinner in his second round match after the up-and-coming Italian saw off Spain's Albert Ramos-Vinolas in straight sets 6-3, 6-4. Teenager Sinner has risen to 22nd in the world rankings after reaching the final of the Miami Open earlier this month. "I will definitely have a game plan," Sinner said of what will be his first meeting with Djokovic. "I know who is on the other side. Obviously it's a tough match I think from my side, because I don't know him that well. I have seen him a lot on TV, watching matches. But when you play against him in a match, it's different. I'm looking forward to that match." Sinner, one of five Italians to reach the second round Tuesday in Monte Carlo, is 15-5 this year but is competing in the main draw of a Masters 1000 event for just the fourth time. "It's a good test for my side to see where I am, especially where I can improve," he added. "I know where I can improve, but this kind of match can give me a lot. I just try to go there with the right mentality like in every match." Earlier on Tuesday, Daniil Medvedev pulled out of the tournament after testing positive for Covid-19. World number two Medvedev tested positive on Monday having practised with Rafael Nadal the day before. Organisers, contacted by AFP, declined to comment on whether third seed Nadal risked being identified as a 'close contact' of Medvedev and forced to quarantine. Nadal is seeded to meet Djokovic in the final as he chases a 12th triumph in Monte Carlo, a key clay court tournament in the run up to the French Open.

Tsitsipas strolls into Monte Carlo last 16, Djokovic to face rising star Sinner

Novak Djokovic swept past promising Italian teenager Jannik Sinner in two sets in Monte Carlo on Wednesday on the Serbian world number one's first appearance since claiming the Australian Open in February.

Sinner, 19, shot to prominence by making it into this month's Miami Open final.

The world number 22 had seen off Spain's Albert Ramos-Vinolas in straight sets 6-3, 6-4 at this Masters 1000 event to book his first ever date with Djokovic.

But it proved a one-sided contest at the Monte Carlo Country Club, with Djokovic sweeping into the next round 6-4, 6-2 in one hour and 34 minutes.

The 18-time Grand Slam champion will next face either Briton Daniel Evans or Hubert Hurkacz, Sinner's Miami conqueror, for a place in the quarter-finals.

The man he is seeded to meet in the final, Rafael Nadal, takes his first steps towards what he hopes will be a 12th title in the Principality against Federico Delbonis.

Nadal was in action three days after practising with Daniil Medvedev, the Russian second seed who was forced to withdraw after testing positive for Covid-19 on Monday.

Novak Djokovic swept past promising Italian teenager Jannik Sinner in two sets in Monte Carlo on Wednesday on the Serbian world number one's first appearance since claiming the Australian Open in February.

Novak Djokovic swept past promising Italian teenager Jannik Sinner in two sets in Monte Carlo on Wednesday on the Serbian world number one's first appearance since claiming the Australian Open in February. Sinner, 19, shot to prominence by making it into this month's Miami Open final. The world number 22 had seen off Spain's Albert Ramos-Vinolas in straight sets 6-3, 6-4 at this Masters 1000 event to book his first ever date with Djokovic. But it proved a one-sided contest at the Monte Carlo Country Club, with Djokovic sweeping into the next round 6-4, 6-2 in one hour and 34 minutes. The 18-time Grand Slam champion will next face either Briton Daniel Evans or Hubert Hurkacz, Sinner's Miami conqueror, for a place in the quarter-finals. The man he is seeded to meet in the final, Rafael Nadal, takes his first steps towards what he hopes will be a 12th title in the Principality against Federico Delbonis. Nadal was in action three days after practising with Daniil Medvedev, the Russian second seed who was forced to withdraw after testing positive for Covid-19 on Monday.

Djokovic silences Sinner on Monte Carlo return

World number two Daniil Medvedev of Russia has tested positive for COVID-19 and has been withdrawn from this week's Monte Carlo Masters, the ATP said on Tuesday.

Medvedev, who was seeded second behind top-ranked Novak Djokovic at the ATP Masters 1000 event on clay, has been put in isolation and is being monitored by the tournament and ATP medical teams, the men's tennis governing body said in a statement.

"It's a big disappointment not to play in Monte-Carlo," said the 25-year-old.

"My focus is now on recovery and I look forward to getting back out on Tour as soon and as safely as possible."

The ATP on Monday posted a video of Medvedev's practice session in Monte Carlo with Spaniard Rafa Nadal. The governing body did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Nadal's participation in the tournament.

Medvedev, who had a first round bye, was scheduled to play the winner of the match between Serbian Filip Krajinovic and Nikoloz Basilashvili of Georgia but tested positive on Monday.

The Russian, who lives in Monte Carlo, was replaced in the draw by Argentinian lucky loser Juan Ignacio Londero while he was also withdrawn from doubles.

World number two Daniil Medvedev of Russia has tested positive for COVID-19 and has been withdrawn from this week's Monte Carlo Masters, the ATP said on Tuesday.

World number two Daniil Medvedev of Russia has tested positive for COVID-19 and has been withdrawn from this week's Monte Carlo Masters, the ATP said on Tuesday. Medvedev, who was seeded second behind top-ranked Novak Djokovic at the ATP Masters 1000 event on clay, has been put in isolation and is being monitored by the tournament and ATP medical teams, the men's tennis governing body said in a statement. "It's a big disappointment not to play in Monte-Carlo," said the 25-year-old. "My focus is now on recovery and I look forward to getting back out on Tour as soon and as safely as possible." The ATP on Monday posted a video of Medvedev's practice session in Monte Carlo with Spaniard Rafa Nadal. The governing body did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Nadal's participation in the tournament. Medvedev, who had a first round bye, was scheduled to play the winner of the match between Serbian Filip Krajinovic and Nikoloz Basilashvili of Georgia but tested positive on Monday. The Russian, who lives in Monte Carlo, was replaced in the draw by Argentinian lucky loser Juan Ignacio Londero while he was also withdrawn from doubles.

Medvedev tests COVID-19 positive, out of Monte Carlo Masters

Flamboyant Italian Fabio Fognini followed up his shock victory over Rafael Nadal with a 6-3, 6-4 final win over Serbian Dusan Lajovic to claim his maiden Masters title in Monte Carlo on Sunday.

The 31-year-old triumphed despite suffering from an apparent muscle problem to became the lowest seeded player, at 13, to claim the title since Gustavo Kuerten in 1999.

Five weeks before the French Open kicks off at Roland Garros, Fognini produced some brilliant tennis on Monte Carlo's red clay to snatch his ninth ATP singles title.

"I was preparing for the match as best I can because he has my ex-coach (Jose Perlas) and I knew it was going to be really tough, a lot of running," said Fognini. "It's an incredible achievement. I’m really, really happy."

Lajovic, who had not lost a set this week before Sunday, did not have the weapons to counter Fognini's tactical nous.

"It was my first time in a final, so a great experience for me," the Serbian said.

"Today was not easy to play, with a lot of wind. But Fabio is a guy who knows how to play in these conditions. He has great hands.

"He's moving really well. So I was feeling on the court that I had to work much harder than him to win the points. I think this was the key."

Fognini made several unforced errors early on, allowing Lajovic to break in the third game. But the Serbian failed to capitalise as he dropped serve in the next game.

Fognini won three games in a row and held off Lajovic to seal the opening set with a stunning backhand winner down the line.

It was the first set Lajovic conceded in the tournament and the Serbian appeared quite shocked, dropping serve in the first game of the second set.

After a brief fightback Lajovic, who was also looking to win his first Masters title, was overwhelmed again and Fognini again broke to move 3-2 up.

In the following game, the Italian had his right leg strapped by the trainer and Lajovic tried to make the rallies longer.

But Fognini cleverly ended some of them with dropshots as he held serve for 4-2.

He ended the contest on his second match point.

Flamboyant Italian Fabio Fognini followed up his shock victory over Rafael Nadal with a 6-3, 6-4 final win over Serbian Dusan Lajovic to claim his maiden Masters title in Monte Carlo on Sunday.

Flamboyant Italian Fabio Fognini followed up his shock victory over Rafael Nadal with a 6-3, 6-4 final win over Serbian Dusan Lajovic to claim his maiden Masters title in Monte Carlo on Sunday. The 31-year-old triumphed despite suffering from an apparent muscle problem to became the lowest seeded player, at 13, to claim the title since Gustavo Kuerten in 1999. Five weeks before the French Open kicks off at Roland Garros, Fognini produced some brilliant tennis on Monte Carlo's red clay to snatch his ninth ATP singles title. "I was preparing for the match as best I can because he has my ex-coach (Jose Perlas) and I knew it was going to be really tough, a lot of running," said Fognini. "It's an incredible achievement. I’m really, really happy." Lajovic, who had not lost a set this week before Sunday, did not have the weapons to counter Fognini's tactical nous. "It was my first time in a final, so a great experience for me," the Serbian said. "Today was not easy to play, with a lot of wind. But Fabio is a guy who knows how to play in these conditions. He has great hands. "He's moving really well. So I was feeling on the court that I had to work much harder than him to win the points. I think this was the key." Fognini made several unforced errors early on, allowing Lajovic to break in the third game. But the Serbian failed to capitalise as he dropped serve in the next game. Fognini won three games in a row and held off Lajovic to seal the opening set with a stunning backhand winner down the line. It was the first set Lajovic conceded in the tournament and the Serbian appeared quite shocked, dropping serve in the first game of the second set. After a brief fightback Lajovic, who was also looking to win his first Masters title, was overwhelmed again and Fognini again broke to move 3-2 up. In the following game, the Italian had his right leg strapped by the trainer and Lajovic tried to make the rallies longer. But Fognini cleverly ended some of them with dropshots as he held serve for 4-2. He ended the contest on his second match point.

Fabio Fognini lands maiden Masters title in Monte Carlo

Former world number one Rafael Nadal looked&nbsp;frustrated as his&nbsp;bid for a 12th Monte Carlo Masters title ended.&nbsp;

He was unhappy in the aftermath of his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-crashes-out-to-fognini-in-monte-carlo-semi-finals-212128">surprise defeat to Fabio Fognini</a> in the semi-finals of the Monte Carlo Masters.&nbsp;

He said that the loss as 'one of the worst matches' he'd played on clay in 14 years.&nbsp;

In the post-match presentation, Rafa said, "Was a bad feeling. Was a tough day and was a difficult opponent. I am coming from low moments in terms of injuries, and in terms of the mental side have been not easy to accept all the things that have been going on during the last times."

He added, "So just was this kind of day that everything was wrong. I probably played one of the worst matches on clay in 14 years."

Fognini won 6-4, 6-2 to bring to an end Nadal's 18-match winning run in Monte Carlo.

After losing the first set 6-4, Nadal then lost the first five games of the second set with Fognini easing through to the final against another surprise name, Dusan Lajovic of Serbia.

The last man to take a set off Nadal in Monte Carlo was Britain's Kyle Edmund in 2017.

"So when that happens, you have to lose. And today I deserve to lose because I played against a player that was better than me today," he concluded. &nbsp;

Former world number one Rafael Nadal looked frustrated as his bid for a 12th Monte Carlo Masters title ended. He was unhappy in the aftermath of his surprise defeat to Fabio Fognini in the semi-finals of the Monte Carlo Masters.

Former world number one Rafael Nadal looked frustrated as his bid for a 12th Monte Carlo Masters title ended. He was unhappy in the aftermath of his surprise defeat to Fabio Fognini in the semi-finals of the Monte Carlo Masters. He said that the loss as 'one of the worst matches' he'd played on clay in 14 years. In the post-match presentation, Rafa said, "Was a bad feeling. Was a tough day and was a difficult opponent. I am coming from low moments in terms of injuries, and in terms of the mental side have been not easy to accept all the things that have been going on during the last times." He added, "So just was this kind of day that everything was wrong. I probably played one of the worst matches on clay in 14 years." Fognini won 6-4, 6-2 to bring to an end Nadal's 18-match winning run in Monte Carlo. After losing the first set 6-4, Nadal then lost the first five games of the second set with Fognini easing through to the final against another surprise name, Dusan Lajovic of Serbia. The last man to take a set off Nadal in Monte Carlo was Britain's Kyle Edmund in 2017. "So when that happens, you have to lose. And today I deserve to lose because I played against a player that was better than me today," he concluded.

'Played one of the worst matches on clay in 14 years': Rafael Nadal

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Rafael+Nadal">Rafael Nadal</a> crashed to Fabio Fognini in the Monte Carlo Masters semi-finals on Saturday, the Spanish clay court king swept aside 6-4, 6-2, to end his bid for a 12th title.

The shock result leaves Italian 13th seed Fognini facing unseeded Serb Dusan Lajovic in Sunday's unscripted final.

Fognini, who beat Nadal three times all on clay in 2015, stopped a 25-set win streak in the principality for the world number two.

The last man to take a set off Nadal in Monte Carlo was Britain's Kyle Edmund in 2017.

Fognini ended Nadal's Monte Carlo reign on the fifth match point.

Rafael Nadal crashed to Fabio Fognini in the Monte Carlo Masters semi-finals on Saturday, the Spanish clay court king swept aside 6-4, 6-2, to end his bid for a 12th title.

Rafael Nadal crashed to Fabio Fognini in the Monte Carlo Masters semi-finals on Saturday, the Spanish clay court king swept aside 6-4, 6-2, to end his bid for a 12th title. The shock result leaves Italian 13th seed Fognini facing unseeded Serb Dusan Lajovic in Sunday's unscripted final. Fognini, who beat Nadal three times all on clay in 2015, stopped a 25-set win streak in the principality for the world number two. The last man to take a set off Nadal in Monte Carlo was Britain's Kyle Edmund in 2017. Fognini ended Nadal's Monte Carlo reign on the fifth match point.

Rafael Nadal crashes out to Fognini in Monte Carlo semi-finals

World number one Novak Djokovic cruised past American Taylor Fritz in straight sets to reach the quarter-finals of the Monte Carlo Masters on Thursday.

In windy conditions, the 31-year-old Serbian defeated Fritz 6-3 6-0 in one hour and eight minutes.

Djokovic will next play tenth seed Daniil Medvedev of Russia. The 23-year-old defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece 6-2 1-6 6-4 to reach his first ATP 1000 Masters quarter-final.

World number one Novak Djokovic cruised past American Taylor Fritz in straight sets to reach the quarter-finals of the Monte Carlo Masters on Thursday. In windy conditions, the 31-year-old Serbian defeated Fritz 6-3 6-0 in one hour and eight minutes.

World number one Novak Djokovic cruised past American Taylor Fritz in straight sets to reach the quarter-finals of the Monte Carlo Masters on Thursday. In windy conditions, the 31-year-old Serbian defeated Fritz 6-3 6-0 in one hour and eight minutes. Djokovic will next play tenth seed Daniil Medvedev of Russia. The 23-year-old defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece 6-2 1-6 6-4 to reach his first ATP 1000 Masters quarter-final.

Novak Djokovic cruises into Monte Carlo quarter-finals, Tsitsipas out

Rafa Nadal once again proved his clay court dominance when he swept aside fellow Spaniard Roberto Bautista Agut at the Monte Carlo Masters on Wednesday (April 17).

Nadal claimed five break points in the match and broke serve five times on his way to beating Bautista Agut 6-1, 6-1.

The 11-time champion in Monte Carlo showed the kind of form that means any opponent is going to have to play exceptionally well to stop him winning a 12th title at the upcoming French in May.

Nadal moved into the last 16 of the Masters where he will face Grigor Dimitrov in the third round.

Germany's Alexander Zverev was also dominant in his victory over fellow up-and-comer, 18-year-old Felix Auger-Aliassime, beating the Canadian 6-1, 6-4.

21-year-old Zverev raced through the first set, but Auger-Aliassime won impressive points in the second that suggested this could be a rivalry tennis fans might get used to in the coming years.

Zverev won six break points in the match and made consistent returns of serve, keeping the pressure on Auger-Aliassime.

The German will now face Italy's Fabio Fognini in the round of 16 on Thursday (April 18).

Fifth seed Kei Nishikori of Japan was beaten by Frenchman Pierre-Hugues Herbert 7-5 6-4 in a hard fought match.

The 28-year-old Frenchman won 81 percent of points on his first serve and broke twice, while Nishikori struggled to find consistency on his opening serve.

Herbert will take on Borna Coric of Croatia in the third round.

Rafa Nadal once again proved his clay court dominance when he swept aside fellow Spaniard Roberto Bautista Agut at the Monte Carlo Masters on Wednesday (April 17).

Rafa Nadal once again proved his clay court dominance when he swept aside fellow Spaniard Roberto Bautista Agut at the Monte Carlo Masters on Wednesday (April 17). Nadal claimed five break points in the match and broke serve five times on his way to beating Bautista Agut 6-1, 6-1. The 11-time champion in Monte Carlo showed the kind of form that means any opponent is going to have to play exceptionally well to stop him winning a 12th title at the upcoming French in May. Nadal moved into the last 16 of the Masters where he will face Grigor Dimitrov in the third round. Germany's Alexander Zverev was also dominant in his victory over fellow up-and-comer, 18-year-old Felix Auger-Aliassime, beating the Canadian 6-1, 6-4. 21-year-old Zverev raced through the first set, but Auger-Aliassime won impressive points in the second that suggested this could be a rivalry tennis fans might get used to in the coming years. Zverev won six break points in the match and made consistent returns of serve, keeping the pressure on Auger-Aliassime. The German will now face Italy's Fabio Fognini in the round of 16 on Thursday (April 18). Fifth seed Kei Nishikori of Japan was beaten by Frenchman Pierre-Hugues Herbert 7-5 6-4 in a hard fought match. The 28-year-old Frenchman won 81 percent of points on his first serve and broke twice, while Nishikori struggled to find consistency on his opening serve. Herbert will take on Borna Coric of Croatia in the third round.

Nadal and Zverev dominate in Monte Carlo, Nishikori out

Spanish Tennis player Rafael Nadal claimed another Monte Carlo Masters title as he defeated Kei Nishikori in Sunday's final.

With this win, he retained the world number one ranking.

The result is significant because Nadal will retain his status as world No 1. Roger Federer would have taken over if Nadal failed to win in Monaco.

Nadal beat Kei Nishikori 6-3 6-2 in the final to secure a remarkable 11th championship in 14 years, and a third in a row.

His 31st Masters title is also an outright record, pulling him out of a tie with Novak Djokovic. 
&nbsp

With this win, he retained the world number one ranking.

Spanish Tennis player Rafael Nadal claimed another Monte Carlo Masters title as he defeated Kei Nishikori in Sunday's final. With this win, he retained the world number one ranking. The result is significant because Nadal will retain his status as world No 1. Roger Federer would have taken over if Nadal failed to win in Monaco. Nadal beat Kei Nishikori 6-3 6-2 in the final to secure a remarkable 11th championship in 14 years, and a third in a row. His 31st Masters title is also an outright record, pulling him out of a tie with Novak Djokovic.

Monte Carlo Masters: Rafael Nadal wins for 3rd consecutive year

Indian tennis ace Rohan Bopanna and his French partner Edouard Roger-Vasselin will aim to book their place in the finals of the Monte Carlo Masters when they head into their last-four clash of the men`s doubles event here on Saturday.

The Indo-French duo will cross swords with third-seed pair of Austria`s Oliver Marach and Croatia`s Mate Pavic for a place in the summit showdown.Yesterday, Bopanna and Roger-Vaselli eased past the Colombian team of Juan Sebastian Cabal and Robert Farah, who reached the Australian Open final this year, 6-4, 6-4 in a one-sided quarter-final clash.

Earlier, the unseeded Indo-French duo had to work hard as they bounced back from a set down and saved three match points to clinch a 3-6, 6-4, 11-9 over two-time Grand Slam champions Jamie Murray and Bruno Soares in one hour and 22 minutes and seal a last-eight spot.

In another semi-finals clash of Monte Carlo, the fourth-seeded Bryan brothers will also take on Italian team of Simone Bolelli and Fabio Fognini for a place in the finals.

The two head into their last-four clash of the men`s doubles event today

Indian tennis ace Rohan Bopanna and his French partner Edouard Roger-Vasselin will aim to book their place in the finals of the Monte Carlo Masters when they head into their last-four clash of the men`s doubles event here on Saturday. The Indo-French duo will cross swords with third-seed pair of Austria`s Oliver Marach and Croatia`s Mate Pavic for a place in the summit showdown.Yesterday, Bopanna and Roger-Vaselli eased past the Colombian team of Juan Sebastian Cabal and Robert Farah, who reached the Australian Open final this year, 6-4, 6-4 in a one-sided quarter-final clash. Earlier, the unseeded Indo-French duo had to work hard as they bounced back from a set down and saved three match points to clinch a 3-6, 6-4, 11-9 over two-time Grand Slam champions Jamie Murray and Bruno Soares in one hour and 22 minutes and seal a last-eight spot. In another semi-finals clash of Monte Carlo, the fourth-seeded Bryan brothers will also take on Italian team of Simone Bolelli and Fabio Fognini for a place in the finals.

Monte Carlo Masters: Bopanna,Vasselin eye final berth

World number one Rafael Nadal swept aside Grigor Dimitrov to ease into his 12th Monte Carlo Masters final with a 6-4, 6-1 victory on Saturday.

The 31-year-old, who needs to win an 11th Monaco title to retain the number one ranking ahead of Roger Federer, will face either Kei Nishikori or Alexander Zverev in Sunday`s final.

Nadal came through a tight first set but always looked too strong for Dimitrov and raced through the second in less than half an hour.

The top seed is bidding for a record-extending 31st Masters title this week, and this win saw him extend his run of consecutive sets won on clay to 34.

Nadal is playing in his first ATP tournament since pulling out of his Australian Open quarter-final against Marin Cilic in January with a hip injury, but has shown no signs of rust in the principality.

Following a 6-0, 6-2 last-eight thrashing of Dominic Thiem, Nadal has now lost only 16 games in four matches this week.

He saw a 3-0 first-set lead slip away as Dimitrov laid down the first real challenge to the Spaniard this week, only for a sloppy service game from the Bulgarian to gift the 10-time champion the opening set.

That effectively ended Dimitrov`s chances, and Nadal broke to love in the second game of the second set.

Eight straight points on his opponent`s serve saw Nadal storm towards the finishing line, and a wide Dimitrov backhand wrapped up yet another comfortable victory.

The 31-year-old will face either Kei Nishikori or Alexander Zverev in Sunday's final.

World number one Rafael Nadal swept aside Grigor Dimitrov to ease into his 12th Monte Carlo Masters final with a 6-4, 6-1 victory on Saturday. The 31-year-old, who needs to win an 11th Monaco title to retain the number one ranking ahead of Roger Federer, will face either Kei Nishikori or Alexander Zverev in Sunday`s final. Nadal came through a tight first set but always looked too strong for Dimitrov and raced through the second in less than half an hour. The top seed is bidding for a record-extending 31st Masters title this week, and this win saw him extend his run of consecutive sets won on clay to 34. Nadal is playing in his first ATP tournament since pulling out of his Australian Open quarter-final against Marin Cilic in January with a hip injury, but has shown no signs of rust in the principality. Following a 6-0, 6-2 last-eight thrashing of Dominic Thiem, Nadal has now lost only 16 games in four matches this week. He saw a 3-0 first-set lead slip away as Dimitrov laid down the first real challenge to the Spaniard this week, only for a sloppy service game from the Bulgarian to gift the 10-time champion the opening set. That effectively ended Dimitrov`s chances, and Nadal broke to love in the second game of the second set. Eight straight points on his opponent`s serve saw Nadal storm towards the finishing line, and a wide Dimitrov backhand wrapped up yet another comfortable victory.

Nadal brushes aside Dimitrov to reach 12th Monte Carlo final

Bulgaria's Grigor Dimitrov overcame Belgium's David Goffin on Friday (April 20) in the quarter-finals of the Monte Carlo Masters.

Fifth in the world Dimitrov clinched a 6-4 7-6 (7-5) victory after Goffin failed to convert three set points while leading five games to one in the second set.

The Bulgarian will face defending champion Spaniard Rafael Nadal after the world number one swept past Austria's Dominic Thiem 6-0 6-2.

Dimitrov and Goffin will share the court again later in the day as the pair are due to compete in the quarter-finals of the doubles.

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They may be teaming up in doubles later today <a href="https://twitter.com/ROLEXMCMASTERS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ROLEXMCMASTERS</a>, but <a href="https://twitter.com/GrigorDimitrov?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GrigorDimitrov</a> pulled off a tremendous second-set comeback to defeat David Goffin in the quarter-finals. Just how big was the comeback? ? 
 
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&nbsp

Dimitrov overcame David Goffin in the quarter-finals to enter the semis of the Monte Carlo Masters.

Bulgaria's Grigor Dimitrov overcame Belgium's David Goffin on Friday (April 20) in the quarter-finals of the Monte Carlo Masters. Fifth in the world Dimitrov clinched a 6-4 7-6 (7-5) victory after Goffin failed to convert three set points while leading five games to one in the second set. The Bulgarian will face defending champion Spaniard Rafael Nadal after the world number one swept past Austria's Dominic Thiem 6-0 6-2. Dimitrov and Goffin will share the court again later in the day as the pair are due to compete in the quarter-finals of the doubles. They may be teaming up in doubles later today @ROLEXMCMASTERS, but @GrigorDimitrov pulled off a tremendous second-set comeback to defeat David Goffin in the quarter-finals. Just how big was the comeback? ? Read More ➡️ https://t.co/naqYGSFgVS pic.twitter.com/aYfyD7SIvx — ATP World Tour (@ATPWorldTour) April 20, 2018 ×

Dimitrov enters semi-finals after defeating Goffin

World number one Rafael Nadal will aim to book his place in the quarter-finals of Monte Carlo Masters when he takes on Karen Khachanov of Russia in their men's singles clash here on Thursday.

Yesterday, the 31-year-old produced a rich vein of form as he swept aside Aljaz Bedene of Slovania 6-1, 6-3 in a one-sided last-32 clash that lasted one hour and 17 minutes.

Now, he will lock horns with Russi`s Khachanov in his last-16 encounter.

The 16-time Grand Slam champion is bidding for an 11th Monte Carlo title and a record 31st Masters title.

Meanwhile, former world number one and Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic will also look to seal quarter-final spot when he squares off with Dominic Thiem of Austria.

Earlier in the last-32 clash, Djokovic showcased a spirited performance as he had swept aside Borna Coric in straight sets 6-7 (2-7), 5-7 in two hours and 15 minutes.Meanwhile, Japanese tennis star Kei Nishikori and second-seed Marin Cilic of Croatia will also face Italy`s Andreas Seppi and Canadia`s Milos Raonic in their last-16 clash later today.

Nadal will aim to book his place in the quarter-finals

World number one Rafael Nadal will aim to book his place in the quarter-finals of Monte Carlo Masters when he takes on Karen Khachanov of Russia in their men's singles clash here on Thursday. Yesterday, the 31-year-old produced a rich vein of form as he swept aside Aljaz Bedene of Slovania 6-1, 6-3 in a one-sided last-32 clash that lasted one hour and 17 minutes. Now, he will lock horns with Russi`s Khachanov in his last-16 encounter. The 16-time Grand Slam champion is bidding for an 11th Monte Carlo title and a record 31st Masters title. Meanwhile, former world number one and Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic will also look to seal quarter-final spot when he squares off with Dominic Thiem of Austria. Earlier in the last-32 clash, Djokovic showcased a spirited performance as he had swept aside Borna Coric in straight sets 6-7 (2-7), 5-7 in two hours and 15 minutes.Meanwhile, Japanese tennis star Kei Nishikori and second-seed Marin Cilic of Croatia will also face Italy`s Andreas Seppi and Canadia`s Milos Raonic in their last-16 clash later today.

Monte Carlo Masters: Nadal, Djokovic eye quarter-final berths

Spaniard Albert Ramos dumped world No-1&nbsp;Andy Murray out of the Monte Carlo Masters 2-6 6-2 7-5 on Thursday after firing back from 4-0 down in the final set to take his place in the quarter-finals.

Murray, who suffered an elbow injury in March and made his return from a five-week layoff on Wednesday after a first-round bye, won the opening set in 48 minutes before losing concentration.

Swiss third seed Stan Wawrinka, the 2015 French Open champion, was also sent packing when he lost to Uruguay&#39;s Pablo Cuevas 6-4 6-4 but nine-times champion Rafael Nadal crushed birthday boy Alexander Zverev for the loss of only two games.

Left-hander Ramos ranked 24th in the world and the 15th seed ripped through the second set in 36 minutes and refused to give up after the Scot had romped to a 4-0 advantage in the third with victory beckoning.

&quot;I&#39;m disappointed to lose from the position that I was in. Being 4-0 up in the third, I haven&#39;t lost many matches like that in my career,&quot; Murray told a news conference.

&quot;He obviously started playing better towards the end of the set. I still had a bunch of chances. I guess both of us did, really. I should have been able to do enough to weather that storm a little bit and finish the match off.&quot;

The Spaniard won four games in a row before Murray, his serve misfiring, applied some late pressure. But Ramos was implacable as he won the next two with back-to-back breaks and served for the match.

Murray saved one match point before hitting a return into the net to hand Ramos an impressive victory over his top-ranked opponent in the first European clay court tournament of the season.

In another match,&nbsp;Nadal dropped a set in the second round against Kyle Edmund but was ruthless as he dispatched another young gun, the 20-year-old Zverev who was reduced to trashing rackets in frustration against the Spaniard.

The nine-times French Open champion needed little more than an hour to win 6-1 6-1.

(Reuters)

Spaniard Albert Ramos played unrelenting Tennis to dislodge Andy Murray at the Monte Carlo Masters

Spaniard Albert Ramos dumped world No-1 Andy Murray out of the Monte Carlo Masters 2-6 6-2 7-5 on Thursday after firing back from 4-0 down in the final set to take his place in the quarter-finals. Murray, who suffered an elbow injury in March and made his return from a five-week layoff on Wednesday after a first-round bye, won the opening set in 48 minutes before losing concentration. Swiss third seed Stan Wawrinka, the 2015 French Open champion, was also sent packing when he lost to Uruguay's Pablo Cuevas 6-4 6-4 but nine-times champion Rafael Nadal crushed birthday boy Alexander Zverev for the loss of only two games. Left-hander Ramos ranked 24th in the world and the 15th seed ripped through the second set in 36 minutes and refused to give up after the Scot had romped to a 4-0 advantage in the third with victory beckoning. "I'm disappointed to lose from the position that I was in. Being 4-0 up in the third, I haven't lost many matches like that in my career," Murray told a news conference. "He obviously started playing better towards the end of the set. I still had a bunch of chances. I guess both of us did, really. I should have been able to do enough to weather that storm a little bit and finish the match off." The Spaniard won four games in a row before Murray, his serve misfiring, applied some late pressure. But Ramos was implacable as he won the next two with back-to-back breaks and served for the match. Murray saved one match point before hitting a return into the net to hand Ramos an impressive victory over his top-ranked opponent in the first European clay court tournament of the season. In another match, Nadal dropped a set in the second round against Kyle Edmund but was ruthless as he dispatched another young gun, the 20-year-old Zverev who was reduced to trashing rackets in frustration against the Spaniard. The nine-times French Open champion needed little more than an hour to win 6-1 6-1. (Reuters)

Monte Carlo Masters: Andy Murray, Wawrinka crash out

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