Novak Djokovic had a torrid time at the start of 2022. Landing in Australia to defend his Australian Open title, the Serbian was in for a shock as he was kept in a detention centre, due to his unvaccinated status, and deported back to his home country prior to the start of the competition. This led to him being handed a three-year visa ban. However, things have turned in his favour recently with Djokovic's visa ban being overturned and he will now be eligible to take part in the 2023 Australian Open.&nbsp;

Djokovic's arch-rival Rafael Nadal has now opened up on the Serbian's visa being overturned.&nbsp;Speaking to the media after&nbsp;beating Casper Ruud in ATP Finals 2022, the Spaniard Nadal said,&nbsp;“I always said the same. Tennis is better when the best players are on the court. At the end, we don't have to create many stories. Even if was a big mess what happened last year in Australia, was not good for our sport. That was past. Roger is not playing anymore. I missed a lot of Grand Slams for injuries. Last year Novak was not able to play there. That's past."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-vs-daniil-medvedev-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-atp-tour-finals-match-535328">Novak Djokovic vs Daniil Medvedev, Live streaming: When and where to watch ATP Tour Finals match?</a>

“What's next is Novak will be able to play again. That's the best news possible, especially knowing that now the virus is more under control - seems - around the world. So why not? Happy for him. Happy for the tournament. Happy for the fans. That's it," he added.

Currently, both Nadal and Djokovic have been in action in the ongoing ATP Tour Finals. While the Spaniard has been eliminated with defeats in his opening two group stage matches, Djokovic has proceeded into the semi-finals and will face Taylor Fritz on Saturday (November 19). At present, he has locked horns with fifth-seeded Daniil Medvedev in his last round-robin game with the Russian already out of the competition.&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic had a torrid time at the start of 2022. Landing in Australia to defend his Australian Open title, the Serbian was in for a shock as he was kept in a detention centre, due to his unvaccinated status, and deported back to his home country prior to the start of the competition.

Novak Djokovic had a torrid time at the start of 2022. Landing in Australia to defend his Australian Open title, the Serbian was in for a shock as he was kept in a detention centre, due to his unvaccinated status, and deported back to his home country prior to the start of the competition. This led to him being handed a three-year visa ban. However, things have turned in his favour recently with Djokovic's visa ban being overturned and he will now be eligible to take part in the 2023 Australian Open. Djokovic's arch-rival Rafael Nadal has now opened up on the Serbian's visa being overturned. Speaking to the media after beating Casper Ruud in ATP Finals 2022, the Spaniard Nadal said, “I always said the same. Tennis is better when the best players are on the court. At the end, we don't have to create many stories. Even if was a big mess what happened last year in Australia, was not good for our sport. That was past. Roger is not playing anymore. I missed a lot of Grand Slams for injuries. Last year Novak was not able to play there. That's past." Also Read: Novak Djokovic vs Daniil Medvedev, Live streaming: When and where to watch ATP Tour Finals match? “What's next is Novak will be able to play again. That's the best news possible, especially knowing that now the virus is more under control - seems - around the world. So why not? Happy for him. Happy for the tournament. Happy for the fans. That's it," he added. Currently, both Nadal and Djokovic have been in action in the ongoing ATP Tour Finals. While the Spaniard has been eliminated with defeats in his opening two group stage matches, Djokovic has proceeded into the semi-finals and will face Taylor Fritz on Saturday (November 19). At present, he has locked horns with fifth-seeded Daniil Medvedev in his last round-robin game with the Russian already out of the competition.

Rafael Nadal reacts after Novak Djokovic granted visa to take part in Australian Open 2023

The action continues in the ATP Tour Finals as 21-time Grand Slam winner Novak Djokovic will face Russia's Daniil Medvedev in the round-robin stage on Friday (November 18)&nbsp;at the Pala Alpitour in Turin, Italy. Both the heavyweights have had a contrasting run in the competition. While Djokovic is through to the semi-finals, Medvedev has crashed out after losing his first two games. Thus, he will am for a consolation win whereas Djokovic will be eager to go ahead with a winning momentum.

Talking about Djokovic, he&nbsp;won the opening game against Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets, 6-4 &amp; 6-7. In the following encounter, he went past&nbsp;Andrey Rublev, also in straight sets, by 6-4 &amp; 6-1. On the other hand, the fifth-seeded Medvedev didn't impress and is already out of the semi-final race with twin defeats. In head-to-head, Djokovic leads Medvedev 7-4.&nbsp;

Here's the live-streaming details of the ATP Tour Finals 2022&nbsp;match between Djokovic and&nbsp;Medvedev:

Where is the Novak Djokovic vs Daniil Medvedev ATP Tour Finals match taking place?

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-finals-taylor-fritz-reaches-semi-finals-spaniard-rafael-nadal-signs-off-with-win-535283">ATP Finals: Taylor Fritz reaches semi-finals, Spaniard Rafael Nadal signs off with win</a>

The Djokovic vs&nbsp;Medvedev ATP Tour Finals match&nbsp;will be held in Pala Alpitour in Turin, Italy.

When will the&nbsp;Novak Djokovic vs Daniil Medvedev ATP Tour Finals third-round&nbsp;encounter kick-off?

The Djokovic vs&nbsp;Medvedev ATP Tour Finals match will kick-off at 6:30 PM IST on Friday (November 18).

Which TV channels will broadcast the Novak Djokovic vs Daniil Medvedev ATP Tour Finals&nbsp;encounter?

The&nbsp;Djokovic vs&nbsp;Medvedev ATP Tour Finals showdown's broadcast will be available on Sports18 TV channel in India.&nbsp;

How to watch the live streaming of the Novak Djokovic vs Daniil Medvedev ATP Tour Finals encounter?

The live streaming of the&nbsp;Djokovic vs&nbsp;Medvedev ATP Tour Finals clash&nbsp;will be on Voot app&nbsp;.

The action continues in the ATP Tour Finals as 21-time Grand Slam winner Novak Djokovic will face Russia's Daniil Medvedev in the round-robin stage on Friday (November 18) at the Pala Alpitour in Turin, Italy.

The action continues in the ATP Tour Finals as 21-time Grand Slam winner Novak Djokovic will face Russia's Daniil Medvedev in the round-robin stage on Friday (November 18) at the Pala Alpitour in Turin, Italy. Both the heavyweights have had a contrasting run in the competition. While Djokovic is through to the semi-finals, Medvedev has crashed out after losing his first two games. Thus, he will am for a consolation win whereas Djokovic will be eager to go ahead with a winning momentum. Talking about Djokovic, he won the opening game against Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets, 6-4 & 6-7. In the following encounter, he went past Andrey Rublev, also in straight sets, by 6-4 & 6-1. On the other hand, the fifth-seeded Medvedev didn't impress and is already out of the semi-final race with twin defeats. In head-to-head, Djokovic leads Medvedev 7-4. Here's the live-streaming details of the ATP Tour Finals 2022 match between Djokovic and Medvedev: Where is the Novak Djokovic vs Daniil Medvedev ATP Tour Finals match taking place? Also read: ATP Finals: Taylor Fritz reaches semi-finals, Spaniard Rafael Nadal signs off with win The Djokovic vs Medvedev ATP Tour Finals match will be held in Pala Alpitour in Turin, Italy. When will the Novak Djokovic vs Daniil Medvedev ATP Tour Finals third-round encounter kick-off? The Djokovic vs Medvedev ATP Tour Finals match will kick-off at 6:30 PM IST on Friday (November 18). Which TV channels will broadcast the Novak Djokovic vs Daniil Medvedev ATP Tour Finals encounter? The Djokovic vs Medvedev ATP Tour Finals showdown's broadcast will be available on Sports18 TV channel in India. How to watch the live streaming of the Novak Djokovic vs Daniil Medvedev ATP Tour Finals encounter? The live streaming of the Djokovic vs Medvedev ATP Tour Finals clash will be on Voot app .

Novak Djokovic vs Daniil Medvedev, Live streaming: When and where to watch ATP Tour Finals match?

Serbia's Novak Djokovic has confirmed that he will take part in next year's Australian Open after being granted a visa. "I was very happy to receive the news yesterday," the 35-year-old Serb, who was sent home from Australia on the eve of last year's event after a row about his COVID-19 vaccination status, said after his victory over Andrey Rublev at the ATP Finals on Wednesday.

Djokovic crushes Rublev&nbsp;to reach last four of ATP Finals

Djokovic booked his place in the last four of the ATP Finals with a crushing 6-4 6-1 defeat of Russia's&nbsp;Rublev at the Turin showpiece on Wednesday. After the first nine games went with serve, Djokovic switched on the afterburners to outclass Rublev.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-will-be-allowed-to-participate-in-the-2023-australian-open-after-ban-overturned-reports-534346">Novak Djokovic will be allowed to participate in the 2023 Australian Open after ban overturned - Reports</a>

Rublev, who like Djokovic had won his opening match at the year-ender, capitulated when serving to stay in the opener, losing the set as Djokovic thumped a backhand return winner. The second set was a non-event as five-time champion Djokovic roared to victory in little more than an hour.

Serbia's Novak Djokovic has confirmed that he will take part in next year's Australian Open after being granted a visa. "I was very happy to receive the news yesterday," the 35-year-old Serb, who was sent home from Australia on the eve of last year's event after a row about his COVID-19 vaccination status, said after his victory over Andrey Rublev at the ATP Finals on Wednesday.

Serbia's Novak Djokovic has confirmed that he will take part in next year's Australian Open after being granted a visa. "I was very happy to receive the news yesterday," the 35-year-old Serb, who was sent home from Australia on the eve of last year's event after a row about his COVID-19 vaccination status, said after his victory over Andrey Rublev at the ATP Finals on Wednesday. Djokovic crushes Rublev to reach last four of ATP Finals Djokovic booked his place in the last four of the ATP Finals with a crushing 6-4 6-1 defeat of Russia's Rublev at the Turin showpiece on Wednesday. After the first nine games went with serve, Djokovic switched on the afterburners to outclass Rublev. Also read: Novak Djokovic will be allowed to participate in the 2023 Australian Open after ban overturned - Reports Rublev, who like Djokovic had won his opening match at the year-ender, capitulated when serving to stay in the opener, losing the set as Djokovic thumped a backhand return winner. The second set was a non-event as five-time champion Djokovic roared to victory in little more than an hour.

Serbian star Novak Djokovic confirms he has visa to take part in 2023 Australian Open

Serbian tennis ace Novak Djokovic is all set to take part in the Australian Open next year as he is likely to be granted a visa. The Australian authorities have decided to revoke the three-year ban imposed on him last year and allow him to participate in the tournament.&nbsp;

Djokovic missed the competition last year due to a visa issue and was deported from Australia for not being vaccinated against COVID-19. In January this year, Djokovic's visa was cancelled after he landed in Australia for the Australian Open with an 'exemption permission'.

He was later deported from the country after fighting a legal battle and was handed a three-year ban from entering Australia, casting doubts over his participation in the Australian Open in 2023. However, the Australian government has now reportedly decided to overturn the ban despite the 21-time Grand Slam champion still being unvaccinated.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cant-defend-that-former-man-utd-defender-rio-ferdinand-after-cristiano-ronaldos-explosive-interview-534297">Can't defend that: Former Man Utd defender Rio Ferdinand after Cristiano Ronaldo's explosive interview</a>

As per Australia's national broadcaster ABC and several other leading Aussie outlets, the Australian government is keen on overturning Djokovic's ban to allow him to participate in the 2023 edition of the tournament. Reports suggest Australian Immigration Minister&nbsp;Andrew Giles has decided to give the nod to Djokovic to return to the country next year.

The Australian government had revoked Djokovic's visa and deported him earlier this year citing 'health and good order grounds'. The deportation resulted in Djokovic failing to launch a title defence at the Australian Open as his arch-rival Rafael Nadal went on to clinch the tournament to bag his 21st Grand Slam crown.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/novak-djokovic-deported-how-entire-australian-open-visa-saga-unfolded-445238">Novak Djokovic deported: How entire Australian Open visa saga unfolded</a>

Djokovic, who has won the Australian Open nine times in his career so far, was asked about his horrid experience in Australia this year during an interview with a Serbian website. The 21-Grand Slam champion said he is over what had happened and just wants to play tennis going forward.

"I am over what happened this year and I just want to play tennis, it is what I do best. Australia has always been the place where I have played my best tennis, the results speak for themselves, so I am always extra motivated to go there. This time even more so. I am hoping for a positive answer," Djokovic said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Serbian tennis ace Novak Djokovic is all set to take part in the Australian Open next year as he is likely to be granted a visa. The Australian authorities have decided to revoke the three-year ban imposed on him last year and allow him to participate in the tournament.

Serbian tennis ace Novak Djokovic is all set to take part in the Australian Open next year as he is likely to be granted a visa. The Australian authorities have decided to revoke the three-year ban imposed on him last year and allow him to participate in the tournament. Djokovic missed the competition last year due to a visa issue and was deported from Australia for not being vaccinated against COVID-19. In January this year, Djokovic's visa was cancelled after he landed in Australia for the Australian Open with an 'exemption permission'. He was later deported from the country after fighting a legal battle and was handed a three-year ban from entering Australia, casting doubts over his participation in the Australian Open in 2023. However, the Australian government has now reportedly decided to overturn the ban despite the 21-time Grand Slam champion still being unvaccinated. Also Read: Can't defend that: Former Man Utd defender Rio Ferdinand after Cristiano Ronaldo's explosive interview As per Australia's national broadcaster ABC and several other leading Aussie outlets, the Australian government is keen on overturning Djokovic's ban to allow him to participate in the 2023 edition of the tournament. Reports suggest Australian Immigration Minister Andrew Giles has decided to give the nod to Djokovic to return to the country next year. The Australian government had revoked Djokovic's visa and deported him earlier this year citing 'health and good order grounds'. The deportation resulted in Djokovic failing to launch a title defence at the Australian Open as his arch-rival Rafael Nadal went on to clinch the tournament to bag his 21st Grand Slam crown. Also Read: Novak Djokovic deported: How entire Australian Open visa saga unfolded Djokovic, who has won the Australian Open nine times in his career so far, was asked about his horrid experience in Australia this year during an interview with a Serbian website. The 21-Grand Slam champion said he is over what had happened and just wants to play tennis going forward. "I am over what happened this year and I just want to play tennis, it is what I do best. Australia has always been the place where I have played my best tennis, the results speak for themselves, so I am always extra motivated to go there. This time even more so. I am hoping for a positive answer," Djokovic said. ×

Novak Djokovic will be allowed to participate in the 2023 Australian Open after ban overturned - Reports

Novak Djokovic always manages to hit the headlines, whether for his on-court heroics or controversies entangling him from time to time. Djokovic was recently seen in action during the Paris Masters 2022 edition, where the Serbian lost the final to a 19-year-old&nbsp;Holger Rune (6-3, 3-6, 5-7). Now, the former world number one finds himself in a new controversy as a drink prepared by his physio during his semi-final clash in Paris, versus Stefanos Tsitsipas, has sparked speculations all around.

During the semi-final face-off between Djokovic and Tsitsipas, where the former won&nbsp;6-2, 3-6, 7-6 (4), the 35-year-old was given a drink by his&nbsp;physio, Ulises Baido, and his support team. The video of the same has gone viral on Twitter, raising eyebrows about what exactly did the drink have.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Can anyone who knows tennis explain what is going on here, and why it’s being done this way? It looks amazingly dodgy. <a href="https://t.co/xoJHBLmTzA">pic.twitter.com/xoJHBLmTzA</a>
— Damian Reilly (@DamianReilly) <a href="https://twitter.com/DamianReilly/status/1589171814403825666?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 6, 2022</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>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-ahead-of-qatar-world-cup-players-shine-light-on-lgbt-race-and-mental-health-issues-532620">WATCH: Ahead of Qatar World Cup, players shine light on LGBT, race and mental health issues</a>

Recently, Jelena Djokovic -- Novak's wife -- strongly responded directly to the video on Twitter. She wrote, "I don’t see anything dodgy. In fact, I see people trying to be private about their business in a world where everyone feels like they have every right to point a camera at you whenever they want. Apparently, wanting/trying to be private makes you dodgy nowadays."

After a fan urged Djokovic’s team to share details regarding the mystery drink,&nbsp;Jelena Djokovic was quick to point out, "He will talk when he is ready to talk. This whole nonsense about making people speak about something they are not ready because OTHERS are unpatient is absurd." She added, "Sit a bit in silence. Mind yourself more. Not everything you see is controversial. It could be private. Is that allowed?"

Earlier in the year, Djokovic had reacted to similar queries with regard to his supplements at Wimbledon 2022, with his apparent inhalation of a supplement inside a water bottle irking many and being criticised. To this, the Serbian star had&nbsp;said it was a “magic potion” and brushed aside the question with a laugh.

Djokovic will now gear up for ATP Finals whereas his participation for 2023 Australian Open&nbsp;remains unclear due to his unvaccinated status.

Novak Djokovic always manages to hit the headlines, whether for his on-court heroics or controversies entangling him from time to time. Djokovic was recently seen in action during the Paris Masters 2022 edition, where the Serbian lost the final to a 19-year-old Holger Rune (6-3, 3-6, 5-7).

Novak Djokovic always manages to hit the headlines, whether for his on-court heroics or controversies entangling him from time to time. Djokovic was recently seen in action during the Paris Masters 2022 edition, where the Serbian lost the final to a 19-year-old Holger Rune (6-3, 3-6, 5-7). Now, the former world number one finds himself in a new controversy as a drink prepared by his physio during his semi-final clash in Paris, versus Stefanos Tsitsipas, has sparked speculations all around. During the semi-final face-off between Djokovic and Tsitsipas, where the former won 6-2, 3-6, 7-6 (4), the 35-year-old was given a drink by his physio, Ulises Baido, and his support team. The video of the same has gone viral on Twitter, raising eyebrows about what exactly did the drink have. Can anyone who knows tennis explain what is going on here, and why it’s being done this way? It looks amazingly dodgy. pic.twitter.com/xoJHBLmTzA — Damian Reilly (@DamianReilly) November 6, 2022 × ALSO READ | WATCH: Ahead of Qatar World Cup, players shine light on LGBT, race and mental health issues Recently, Jelena Djokovic -- Novak's wife -- strongly responded directly to the video on Twitter. She wrote, "I don’t see anything dodgy. In fact, I see people trying to be private about their business in a world where everyone feels like they have every right to point a camera at you whenever they want. Apparently, wanting/trying to be private makes you dodgy nowadays." After a fan urged Djokovic’s team to share details regarding the mystery drink, Jelena Djokovic was quick to point out, "He will talk when he is ready to talk. This whole nonsense about making people speak about something they are not ready because OTHERS are unpatient is absurd." She added, "Sit a bit in silence. Mind yourself more. Not everything you see is controversial. It could be private. Is that allowed?" Earlier in the year, Djokovic had reacted to similar queries with regard to his supplements at Wimbledon 2022, with his apparent inhalation of a supplement inside a water bottle irking many and being criticised. To this, the Serbian star had said it was a “magic potion” and brushed aside the question with a laugh. Djokovic will now gear up for ATP Finals whereas his participation for 2023 Australian Open remains unclear due to his unvaccinated status.

Novak Djokovic's wife reacts strongly over Serbian's mystery drink in Paris Masters 2022

Denmark’s Holger Rune stunned six-time world champion Novak Djokovic in the Paris Masters after coming back from a set down to win 3-6, 6-3, 7-5, making him the youngest to win the grand slam.

The 19-year-old sensation was playing his first Masters 1000 final on Sunday where he held his nerve in the decider against the swashbuckling Serbian&nbsp;to take the biggest title of his career.

He is the youngest winner of the Paris tournament since Boris Becker in 1986, and he will be the first Danish to enter the top 10 of the world rankings on Monday.

“I want to start by saying huge congrats to Novak also,” he said to Djokovic, who is 16 years his senior, in his post-match interview.

“You’re one of my favourite players, I’ve been watching you since I was a little kid, practising with you. It’s a pleasure to be able to share the court with you now.”

Describing one of his greatest achievements by defeating the great Novak, he said, “It means everything to me, a perfect way to finish the week…It was an incredible tournament."

Ahead of Sunday’s final, Djokovic had heaped praise on Rume saying how the latter “reminds me of myself”.

Before being pitted against Rune, Djokovic had won 21 of 22 matches since the start of Wimbledon.

The Serbian broke for a 3-1 lead as Rune served back-to-back double faults in the biggest final of his career to date.

Notably, the pair had an age gap of 16 years between them, which was the biggest in a Masters final since Rafael Nadal, then 19, defeated 35-year-old Andre Agassi in Montreal in 2005.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE: 

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Denmark’s Holger Rune stunned six-time world champion Novak Djokovic in the Paris Masters after coming back from a set down to win 3-6, 6-3, 7-5, making him the youngest to win the grand slam.

Denmark’s Holger Rune stunned six-time world champion Novak Djokovic in the Paris Masters after coming back from a set down to win 3-6, 6-3, 7-5, making him the youngest to win the grand slam. The 19-year-old sensation was playing his first Masters 1000 final on Sunday where he held his nerve in the decider against the swashbuckling Serbian to take the biggest title of his career. He is the youngest winner of the Paris tournament since Boris Becker in 1986, and he will be the first Danish to enter the top 10 of the world rankings on Monday. “I want to start by saying huge congrats to Novak also,” he said to Djokovic, who is 16 years his senior, in his post-match interview. “You’re one of my favourite players, I’ve been watching you since I was a little kid, practising with you. It’s a pleasure to be able to share the court with you now.” Describing one of his greatest achievements by defeating the great Novak, he said, “It means everything to me, a perfect way to finish the week…It was an incredible tournament." Ahead of Sunday’s final, Djokovic had heaped praise on Rume saying how the latter “reminds me of myself”. Before being pitted against Rune, Djokovic had won 21 of 22 matches since the start of Wimbledon. The Serbian broke for a 3-1 lead as Rune served back-to-back double faults in the biggest final of his career to date. Notably, the pair had an age gap of 16 years between them, which was the biggest in a Masters final since Rafael Nadal, then 19, defeated 35-year-old Andre Agassi in Montreal in 2005. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Denmark’s Holger Rune stuns Novak Djokovic to clinch Paris Masters

World number one Carlos Alcaraz swatted aside Grigor Dimitrov in straight sets on Thursday, as Novak Djokovic continued his Paris Masters title defence by also reaching the quarter-finals.

Spanish teenager Alcaraz, hoping to win a third Masters title of the year after previous successes in Miami and Madrid, saw off former world number three Dimitrov 6-1, 6-3 in 72 minutes.

Alcaraz will be confirmed as the year-end world number one before the ATP Finals in Turin later this month if he lifts the trophy this weekend in the French capital.

"It was not his day, he didn't play at his best, but I played my game," said the 19-year-old US Open champion.

Alcaraz will take on Holger Rune for a last-four place after the Dane knocked out seventh seed Andrey Rublev with a 6-4, 7-5 win.

The top seed got off to a rapid start at Bercy Arena, taking nine of the first 10 games to seize total control of the match.

Dimitrov managed to break back in the second set, but Alcaraz broke again in the eighth game and comfortably wrapped up victory.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-masters-2022-lorenzo-musetti-beats-casper-ruud-to-enter-quarter-finals-530940">Paris Masters 2022: Lorenzo Musetti beats Casper Ruud to enter quarter-finals</a>

He hit 16 winners and made only six unforced errors in a dominant display, while Dimitrov saw 24 unforced errors fly off his racquet.

Djokovic, seeking a record-extending seventh Bercy title this week, thrashed Russian Karen Khachanov 6-4, 6-1.

The 21-time Grand Slam champion, already the winner of a record 38 Masters crowns, will play Lorenzo Musetti for a semi-final berth.

Djokovic stretched his winning run in individual tournaments to 18 matches, dating back to his French Open quarter-final loss to Rafael Nadal in May.

The Wimbledon champion has now won 10 of his 11 meetings with Khachanov -- the only defeat coming in the 2018 Paris Masters final.

He edged a tight opening set but powered to victory in the second, reeling off five straight games.

Musetti knocks out Ruud&nbsp;

Italian youngster Musetti downed third seed Casper Ruud in three sets to reach his maiden Masters quarter-final.

The 20-year-old, at a career-high ranking of 23rd, came from behind to beat the Norwegian Ruud 4-6, 6-4, 6-4.

Musetti will next face either reigning champion Novak Djokovic or Russian Karen Khachanov.

"He was playing really well and I had to play my best tennis to beat him," said Musetti.

"I am really happy that all the hard work I am doing keeps improving me. I am really proud of this win."

Ruud has struggled since losing the US Open final to Alcaraz -- having also been the French Open runner-up earlier this year -- winning just two of his last six matches.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-vs-karen-khachanov-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-paris-masters-round-3-match-530852">Novak Djokovic vs Karen Khachanov, Live streaming: When and where to watch Paris Masters' Round 3 match?</a>

The 23-year-old took the opening set with a single break in the 10th game but then had no answer as his opponent battled back.

Musetti, who has lifted two ATP titles this year, broke serve three times across the next two sets to continue his rise with his best performance to date at a Masters event.

Felix Auger-Aliassime extended his winning streak to 15 matches as the Canadian ended Gilles Simon's career with a 6-1, 6-3 success.

The eighth seed is still on track for a fourth successive title and will next play Frances Tiafoe after the American's 6-3, 7-6 (7/5) win over Alex de Minaur.

Auger-Aliassime and Rublev both qualified for the ATP Finals on Wednesday to complete the eight-man field.

Former world number six Simon had said he would retire after the tournament and the 37-year-old Frenchman bowed out of the sport after surprise wins over Andy Murray and Taylor Fritz earlier this week.

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

World number one Carlos Alcaraz swatted aside Grigor Dimitrov in straight sets on Thursday, as Novak Djokovic continued his Paris Masters title defence by also reaching the quarter-finals.

World number one Carlos Alcaraz swatted aside Grigor Dimitrov in straight sets on Thursday, as Novak Djokovic continued his Paris Masters title defence by also reaching the quarter-finals. Spanish teenager Alcaraz, hoping to win a third Masters title of the year after previous successes in Miami and Madrid, saw off former world number three Dimitrov 6-1, 6-3 in 72 minutes. Alcaraz will be confirmed as the year-end world number one before the ATP Finals in Turin later this month if he lifts the trophy this weekend in the French capital. "It was not his day, he didn't play at his best, but I played my game," said the 19-year-old US Open champion. Alcaraz will take on Holger Rune for a last-four place after the Dane knocked out seventh seed Andrey Rublev with a 6-4, 7-5 win. The top seed got off to a rapid start at Bercy Arena, taking nine of the first 10 games to seize total control of the match. Dimitrov managed to break back in the second set, but Alcaraz broke again in the eighth game and comfortably wrapped up victory. ALSO READ: Paris Masters 2022: Lorenzo Musetti beats Casper Ruud to enter quarter-finals He hit 16 winners and made only six unforced errors in a dominant display, while Dimitrov saw 24 unforced errors fly off his racquet. Djokovic, seeking a record-extending seventh Bercy title this week, thrashed Russian Karen Khachanov 6-4, 6-1. The 21-time Grand Slam champion, already the winner of a record 38 Masters crowns, will play Lorenzo Musetti for a semi-final berth. Djokovic stretched his winning run in individual tournaments to 18 matches, dating back to his French Open quarter-final loss to Rafael Nadal in May. The Wimbledon champion has now won 10 of his 11 meetings with Khachanov -- the only defeat coming in the 2018 Paris Masters final. He edged a tight opening set but powered to victory in the second, reeling off five straight games. Musetti knocks out Ruud Italian youngster Musetti downed third seed Casper Ruud in three sets to reach his maiden Masters quarter-final. The 20-year-old, at a career-high ranking of 23rd, came from behind to beat the Norwegian Ruud 4-6, 6-4, 6-4. Musetti will next face either reigning champion Novak Djokovic or Russian Karen Khachanov. "He was playing really well and I had to play my best tennis to beat him," said Musetti. "I am really happy that all the hard work I am doing keeps improving me. I am really proud of this win." Ruud has struggled since losing the US Open final to Alcaraz -- having also been the French Open runner-up earlier this year -- winning just two of his last six matches. ALSO READ: Novak Djokovic vs Karen Khachanov, Live streaming: When and where to watch Paris Masters' Round 3 match? The 23-year-old took the opening set with a single break in the 10th game but then had no answer as his opponent battled back. Musetti, who has lifted two ATP titles this year, broke serve three times across the next two sets to continue his rise with his best performance to date at a Masters event. Felix Auger-Aliassime extended his winning streak to 15 matches as the Canadian ended Gilles Simon's career with a 6-1, 6-3 success. The eighth seed is still on track for a fourth successive title and will next play Frances Tiafoe after the American's 6-3, 7-6 (7/5) win over Alex de Minaur. Auger-Aliassime and Rublev both qualified for the ATP Finals on Wednesday to complete the eight-man field. Former world number six Simon had said he would retire after the tournament and the 37-year-old Frenchman bowed out of the sport after surprise wins over Andy Murray and Taylor Fritz earlier this week. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Alcaraz, Djokovic cruise into Paris quarters

Rafael Nadal bowed out of the Paris Masters 2022 after a defeat to Tommy Paul as the American, with a 3-6, 7-6(4), 6-1 victory, ended the Spaniard's quest to top rankings. After the end of campaign for Nadal, all eyes are now on how far will Novak Djokovic go in the competition. After a bye in the opening round, Djokovic emerged on top of&nbsp;Maxime Cressy with an easy win in the second round, winning&nbsp;7-6 (1), 6-4. He will now gear up to face Russia's Karen&nbsp;Khachanov on Thursday (November 03).

Talking about Khachanov, the Russian stormed past Sebastian Baez&nbsp;6-1, 6-1&nbsp;in his first round but had to do the hard yards to get past Marc-Andrea Huesler in the second round. In a three-set battle, overcoming him in three sets to win 6-3, 4-6, 6-4. It is to be noted that Khachanov has gone past the second round for the first time since 2018 and, hence, he will like to make the most of it and go the distance this time around. In terms of head-to-head, Djokovic dominates the Russian with a 7-1 lead. However, Khachanov's only win over the Serbian came four years back, during the Paris Masters final.

Here's the live-streaming details of the Paris Masters 2022 third-round&nbsp;encounter between Djokovic and&nbsp;Khachanov:

Where is the Novak Djokovic vs Karen&nbsp;Khachanov&nbsp;Paris Masters 2022 third-round&nbsp;encounter taking place?

The Djokovic vs&nbsp;Khachanov Paris Masters third-round clash will take place at&nbsp;the Centre Court, AccorHotels Arena in Paris.

When will the&nbsp;Novak Djokovic vs Karen&nbsp;Khachanov Paris Masters 2022 third-round&nbsp;encounter kick-off?

The high-voltage Djokovic vs&nbsp;Khachanov 2022 Paris Masters third-round tie will commence at 7:40 PM IST on Thursday (November 04).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-masters-tommy-paul-pulls-off-an-upset-over-rafael-nadal-dents-spaniards-quest-to-top-rankings-530762">Paris Masters: Tommy Paul pulls off an upset over Rafael Nadal, dents Spaniard's quest to top rankings</a>

Which TV channels will broadcast the Novak Djokovic vs Karen&nbsp;Khachanov Paris Masters 2022 third-round&nbsp;encounter?

The&nbsp;Djokovic vs&nbsp;Khachanov Paris Masters third-round showdown's broadcast will be available on Sports 18 1/1D.&nbsp;

How to watch the live streaming of the Novak Djokovic vs Karen&nbsp;Khachanov&nbsp;Paris Masters 2022 third-round&nbsp;encounter?

The live streaming of the&nbsp;Djokovic vs&nbsp;Khachanov Paris Masters third-round clash&nbsp;will be available on Voot app&nbsp;.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Rafael Nadal bowed out of the Paris Masters 2022 after a defeat to Tommy Paul as the American, with a 3-6, 7-6(4), 6-1 victory, ended the Spaniard's quest to top rankings.

Rafael Nadal bowed out of the Paris Masters 2022 after a defeat to Tommy Paul as the American, with a 3-6, 7-6(4), 6-1 victory, ended the Spaniard's quest to top rankings. After the end of campaign for Nadal, all eyes are now on how far will Novak Djokovic go in the competition. After a bye in the opening round, Djokovic emerged on top of Maxime Cressy with an easy win in the second round, winning 7-6 (1), 6-4. He will now gear up to face Russia's Karen Khachanov on Thursday (November 03). Talking about Khachanov, the Russian stormed past Sebastian Baez 6-1, 6-1 in his first round but had to do the hard yards to get past Marc-Andrea Huesler in the second round. In a three-set battle, overcoming him in three sets to win 6-3, 4-6, 6-4. It is to be noted that Khachanov has gone past the second round for the first time since 2018 and, hence, he will like to make the most of it and go the distance this time around. In terms of head-to-head, Djokovic dominates the Russian with a 7-1 lead. However, Khachanov's only win over the Serbian came four years back, during the Paris Masters final. Here's the live-streaming details of the Paris Masters 2022 third-round encounter between Djokovic and Khachanov: Where is the Novak Djokovic vs Karen Khachanov Paris Masters 2022 third-round encounter taking place? The Djokovic vs Khachanov Paris Masters third-round clash will take place at the Centre Court, AccorHotels Arena in Paris. When will the Novak Djokovic vs Karen Khachanov Paris Masters 2022 third-round encounter kick-off? The high-voltage Djokovic vs Khachanov 2022 Paris Masters third-round tie will commence at 7:40 PM IST on Thursday (November 04). ALSO READ | Paris Masters: Tommy Paul pulls off an upset over Rafael Nadal, dents Spaniard's quest to top rankings Which TV channels will broadcast the Novak Djokovic vs Karen Khachanov Paris Masters 2022 third-round encounter? The Djokovic vs Khachanov Paris Masters third-round showdown's broadcast will be available on Sports 18 1/1D. How to watch the live streaming of the Novak Djokovic vs Karen Khachanov Paris Masters 2022 third-round encounter? The live streaming of the Djokovic vs Khachanov Paris Masters third-round clash will be available on Voot app . ×

Novak Djokovic vs Karen Khachanov, Live streaming: When and where to watch Paris Masters' Round 3 match?

Defending champion Novak Djokovic opened his Paris Masters campaign with a routine 7-6(1) 6-4 win over Maxime Cressy on Tuesday, while Andrey Rublev and Hubert Hurkacz stayed in the hunt for a place at the ATP Finals with straight-sets victories.

Djokovic, a six-times winner at the ATP Masters 1000 event in the French capital, was made to toil in the opening set by Cressy but emerged unscathed after the American double-faulted twice in the tiebreak.

The Serbian raised his game in the second set, breaking his opponent at 4-4 before serving out the match with ease.

"It was very intense, just a lot of pressure. When you play someone that serves this well - first and second serve - you don't have much room to relax and maybe play kind of a softer few games," said 21-times major champion Djokovic.

"A break came at the right time, perfect time actually. I was very pleased with the way I held my serve, didn't face a break point."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/toteenham-hotspur-eintracht-frankfurt-into-champions-league-last-16-as-liverpool-beat-napoli-530417">Tottenham Hotspur, Eintracht Frankfurt into Champions League last 16 as Liverpool beat Napoli</a>

Earlier, Rublev was solid on return as he broke the big-serving John Isner three times to progress 6-2 6-3 in just over an hour and claim his first win in four career meetings against the American.

"It is a really important win at this moment when I am fighting for Turin," said the 25-year-old, who is vying for one of the two remaining spots at the season-ending ATP Finals.

"I think I was a bit lucky. It was his first tournament since his bad injury. From the baseline I was feeling really confident. As soon as I was returning and the ball was in play, I felt I had an advantage and wasn't nervous."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ninth-seed-taylor-fritz-leads-american-quartet-into-paris-masters-second-round-530287">Ninth-seed Taylor Fritz leads American quartet into Paris Masters second round</a>

Poland's Hurkacz fired 20 aces and saved eight break points to overcome French left-hander Adrian Mannarino 7-6(5) 6-4 to stay on a course for a potential third-round clash against Rublev.

Third-seeded Casper Ruud, who has already qualified for the ATP Finals, defeated French wild card Richard Gasquet 6-1 7-6(7) after a thrilling second set, where the Norwegian bounced back from 3-5 down.

In the other matches, French qualifier Corentin Moutet downed Borna Coric 3-6 6-3 6-4 and Dan Evans of Britain saw off American youngster Brandon Nakashima 6-3 3-6 6-4.

Defending champion Novak Djokovic opened his Paris Masters campaign with a routine 7-6(1) 6-4 win over Maxime Cressy on Tuesday, while Andrey Rublev and Hubert Hurkacz stayed in the hunt for a place at the ATP Finals with straight-sets victories.

Defending champion Novak Djokovic opened his Paris Masters campaign with a routine 7-6(1) 6-4 win over Maxime Cressy on Tuesday, while Andrey Rublev and Hubert Hurkacz stayed in the hunt for a place at the ATP Finals with straight-sets victories. Djokovic, a six-times winner at the ATP Masters 1000 event in the French capital, was made to toil in the opening set by Cressy but emerged unscathed after the American double-faulted twice in the tiebreak. The Serbian raised his game in the second set, breaking his opponent at 4-4 before serving out the match with ease. "It was very intense, just a lot of pressure. When you play someone that serves this well - first and second serve - you don't have much room to relax and maybe play kind of a softer few games," said 21-times major champion Djokovic. "A break came at the right time, perfect time actually. I was very pleased with the way I held my serve, didn't face a break point." Also Read: Tottenham Hotspur, Eintracht Frankfurt into Champions League last 16 as Liverpool beat Napoli Earlier, Rublev was solid on return as he broke the big-serving John Isner three times to progress 6-2 6-3 in just over an hour and claim his first win in four career meetings against the American. "It is a really important win at this moment when I am fighting for Turin," said the 25-year-old, who is vying for one of the two remaining spots at the season-ending ATP Finals. "I think I was a bit lucky. It was his first tournament since his bad injury. From the baseline I was feeling really confident. As soon as I was returning and the ball was in play, I felt I had an advantage and wasn't nervous." Also Read: Ninth-seed Taylor Fritz leads American quartet into Paris Masters second round Poland's Hurkacz fired 20 aces and saved eight break points to overcome French left-hander Adrian Mannarino 7-6(5) 6-4 to stay on a course for a potential third-round clash against Rublev. Third-seeded Casper Ruud, who has already qualified for the ATP Finals, defeated French wild card Richard Gasquet 6-1 7-6(7) after a thrilling second set, where the Norwegian bounced back from 3-5 down. In the other matches, French qualifier Corentin Moutet downed Borna Coric 3-6 6-3 6-4 and Dan Evans of Britain saw off American youngster Brandon Nakashima 6-3 3-6 6-4.

Novak Djokovic starts Paris Masters defence with routine win, Rublev and Hurkacz also through

Ninth seed Taylor Fritz kept his hopes of qualifying for the season-ending ATP Finals alive when he was among four Americans to record straight sets victories at the Paris Masters on Monday to move into the second round. Fritz, the highest-seeded American in the draw beat Alejandro Davidovich Fokina 7-5 6-2 on the back of a decent first serve despite trailing by a break in the opening set.

Fritz hit only 11 winners to the Spaniard's 20 but he converted five break points to wrap up the match in 90 minutes to beat Davidovich Fokina for the first time in three meetings. "Really happy, he's a tough person to play against. He's got weapons on both sides, he's extremely quick as well, so there's nowhere you can really play with a lot of safety," Fritz said. "He makes a lot of crazy shots and he's beaten me the past two times."

Fritz needs to reach the final to have any chance of sealing a place in the ATP Finals in Turin ahead of Andrey Rublev or Felix Auger-Aliassime, who has won his last three tournaments. "Turin is still in the picture, obviously, but there's not much else I really could have done. I won Tokyo," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/iga-swiatek-confused-disappointed-by-simona-haleps-failed-drugs-test-529610">Iga Swiatek confused, disappointed by Simona Halep's failed drugs test</a>

"Felix has played really, really well, so he deserves it, but I am going to try to steal his spot this week for sure." Fellow American John Isner can remove one hurdle in the form of Rublev after he booked a place in the second round against the Russian with a 6-4 7-6(3) win over Germany's Oscar Otte. The towering 37-year-old Isner, who finished runner-up to Andy Murray in 2016, fired 19 aces in the contest to wrap things up in 82 minutes.

French wildcard Gilles Simon battled back from a set down to beat Britain's Andy Murray 4-6 7-5 6-3. Frances Tiafoe also moved into the second round without conceding a break point with a 6-4 6-4 win over Lorenzo Sonego while fellow American Maxime Cressy ousted Argentine Diego Schwartzman 6-3 6-3.

In a mixed day for the Italians, Lorenzo Musetti beat Marin Cilic in straight sets to advance but 11th seed Jannik Sinner was knocked out by Swiss qualifier Marc-Andrea Huesler who is ranked 49 places below him. Defending champion Novak Djokovic, world number one Carlos Alcaraz, Rafa Nadal and Daniil Medvedev are among the main seeds who received a bye into the second round.

Ninth seed Taylor Fritz kept his hopes of qualifying for the season-ending ATP Finals alive when he was among four Americans to record straight sets victories at the Paris Masters on Monday to move into the second round.

Ninth seed Taylor Fritz kept his hopes of qualifying for the season-ending ATP Finals alive when he was among four Americans to record straight sets victories at the Paris Masters on Monday to move into the second round. Fritz, the highest-seeded American in the draw beat Alejandro Davidovich Fokina 7-5 6-2 on the back of a decent first serve despite trailing by a break in the opening set. Fritz hit only 11 winners to the Spaniard's 20 but he converted five break points to wrap up the match in 90 minutes to beat Davidovich Fokina for the first time in three meetings. "Really happy, he's a tough person to play against. He's got weapons on both sides, he's extremely quick as well, so there's nowhere you can really play with a lot of safety," Fritz said. "He makes a lot of crazy shots and he's beaten me the past two times." Fritz needs to reach the final to have any chance of sealing a place in the ATP Finals in Turin ahead of Andrey Rublev or Felix Auger-Aliassime, who has won his last three tournaments. "Turin is still in the picture, obviously, but there's not much else I really could have done. I won Tokyo," he added. ALSO READ | Iga Swiatek confused, disappointed by Simona Halep's failed drugs test "Felix has played really, really well, so he deserves it, but I am going to try to steal his spot this week for sure." Fellow American John Isner can remove one hurdle in the form of Rublev after he booked a place in the second round against the Russian with a 6-4 7-6(3) win over Germany's Oscar Otte. The towering 37-year-old Isner, who finished runner-up to Andy Murray in 2016, fired 19 aces in the contest to wrap things up in 82 minutes. French wildcard Gilles Simon battled back from a set down to beat Britain's Andy Murray 4-6 7-5 6-3. Frances Tiafoe also moved into the second round without conceding a break point with a 6-4 6-4 win over Lorenzo Sonego while fellow American Maxime Cressy ousted Argentine Diego Schwartzman 6-3 6-3. In a mixed day for the Italians, Lorenzo Musetti beat Marin Cilic in straight sets to advance but 11th seed Jannik Sinner was knocked out by Swiss qualifier Marc-Andrea Huesler who is ranked 49 places below him. Defending champion Novak Djokovic, world number one Carlos Alcaraz, Rafa Nadal and Daniil Medvedev are among the main seeds who received a bye into the second round.

Ninth-seed Taylor Fritz leads American quartet into Paris Masters second round

The Australian Open is the next big event which will take place in the beginning of 2023. In the last edition of the Australian Open, Novak Djokovic made heads turn when he was deported back home for not being Covid vaccinated. The Serbian was imposed with a three-year ban on seeking an Australian visa but recently shared a massive update on his chances of featuring in the Aus Open next year.

“When it comes to Australia, there are some positive signs, but unofficially,” 35-year-old Djokovic told Sportal. He further opined, "We are communicating through my lawyers in Australia. In fact, they are communicating with the authorities in charge of my case. I hope to have an answer in the next few weeks – whatever that answer might be, but of course I am hoping for a positive one – so that I have enough time to prepare for the start of the season, if that start is going to happen in Australia."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-not-retired-serena-williams-makes-big-claim-says-chances-of-return-are-very-high-528107">I am not retired: Serena Williams makes big claim, says chances of return are 'very high'</a>

Djokovic, nine-time champion in Melbourne, remains focused on the future and has clearly stated that he does not want to dwell on the past. “I really want to go there, I am over what happened this year and I just want to play tennis, it is what I do best. Australia has always been the place where I have played my best tennis, the results speak for themselves, so I am always extra motivated to go there. This time even more, so. “I am hoping for a positive answer," the former world number one added.

It remains to be seen if Djokovic's visa ban gets lifted and he leaves for Australia for the mega event. As of now, nothing is final but Djokovic's recent update does give hope to his ardent fans ahead of the big-ticket event Down Under.

The Australian Open is the next big event which will take place in the beginning of 2023. In the last edition of the Australian Open, Novak Djokovic made heads turn when he was deported back home for not being Covid vaccinated.

The Australian Open is the next big event which will take place in the beginning of 2023. In the last edition of the Australian Open, Novak Djokovic made heads turn when he was deported back home for not being Covid vaccinated. The Serbian was imposed with a three-year ban on seeking an Australian visa but recently shared a massive update on his chances of featuring in the Aus Open next year. “When it comes to Australia, there are some positive signs, but unofficially,” 35-year-old Djokovic told Sportal. He further opined, "We are communicating through my lawyers in Australia. In fact, they are communicating with the authorities in charge of my case. I hope to have an answer in the next few weeks – whatever that answer might be, but of course I am hoping for a positive one – so that I have enough time to prepare for the start of the season, if that start is going to happen in Australia." ALSO READ | I am not retired: Serena Williams makes big claim, says chances of return are 'very high' Djokovic, nine-time champion in Melbourne, remains focused on the future and has clearly stated that he does not want to dwell on the past. “I really want to go there, I am over what happened this year and I just want to play tennis, it is what I do best. Australia has always been the place where I have played my best tennis, the results speak for themselves, so I am always extra motivated to go there. This time even more, so. “I am hoping for a positive answer," the former world number one added. It remains to be seen if Djokovic's visa ban gets lifted and he leaves for Australia for the mega event. As of now, nothing is final but Djokovic's recent update does give hope to his ardent fans ahead of the big-ticket event Down Under.

'There are some positive signs, but unofficially' - Novak Djokovic on playing 2023 Australian Open

Ahead of the first Grand Slam of the year, i.e. the Australian Open, Novak Djokovic hit the headlines for all the wrong reasons. His stance against the Covid-19 vaccination landed him in a deportation centre in Australia, prior to the tournament. The news spread like wildfire and resulted in Djokovic being sent back to his country, Serbia. The Serbian is&nbsp;banned from entering the country for three years, despite Russians and Belarusians being given the nod to take part&nbsp;in the tournament Down Under.

Ahead of the 2023 Australian Open, which is set to get underway on January 16, tournament chief&nbsp;Craig Tiley&nbsp;told The Age newspaper&nbsp;that Djokovic will be welcomed at the forthcoming mega event.

"What we're saying at this point is that Novak and the federal government need to work out the situation. And then we'll follow any instructions after that," said Tiley. "I did spend some time with Novak at the Laver Cup. We spoke generally. He said that he'd obviously love to come back to Australia but he knows it's going to be an ultimate decision for the federal government. He's accepted that position. It's a private matter between them," Tiley added.

In addition, Tiley confirmed that the Russian and Belarusian players will be allowed to take part in the first major tournament of 2023, however, they will have to do so as independent players.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/victor-wembanyama-everything-to-know-about-the-young-sensation-who-is-set-to-light-up-nba-524654">Victor Wembanyama: The 18-year-old 'generational talent' set to light up NBA</a>

"The only difference will be that they cannot represent Russia, cannot represent the flag of Russia, cannot participate in any activity such as the anthem of Russia and have to play as independent players," said Tiley.

While it seems Djokovic might just have a chance to return to Australia for the big-ticket tournament, opposition politician Karen Andrews -- who was serving as the home affairs minister when the former world number one was deported early this year -- believes there should be no special treatment given to the Serbian.

"It would be a slap in the face for those people in Australia who did the right thing, got vaccinated, did everything they needed to do if all of a sudden Novak Djokovic is allowed back into the country simply because he is a high-ranking tennis player with many millions of dollars," Andrews said while speaking on Mornings.

Recently,&nbsp;Immigration lawyer Kon-ming Tsai also opened up in this regard. "There is no risk factor here with allowing Djokovic back in. He's not going to create a problem for the community. He is one of the world's best tennis players and will be able to pull in a lot of foreign visitors,"&nbsp;Tsai said in a telephone interview&nbsp;with The Associated Press.

Ahead of the first Grand Slam of the year, i.e. the Australian Open, Novak Djokovic hit the headlines for all the wrong reasons. His stance against the Covid-19 vaccination landed him in a deportation centre in Australia, prior to the tournament.

Ahead of the first Grand Slam of the year, i.e. the Australian Open, Novak Djokovic hit the headlines for all the wrong reasons. His stance against the Covid-19 vaccination landed him in a deportation centre in Australia, prior to the tournament. The news spread like wildfire and resulted in Djokovic being sent back to his country, Serbia. The Serbian is banned from entering the country for three years, despite Russians and Belarusians being given the nod to take part in the tournament Down Under. Ahead of the 2023 Australian Open, which is set to get underway on January 16, tournament chief Craig Tiley told The Age newspaper that Djokovic will be welcomed at the forthcoming mega event. "What we're saying at this point is that Novak and the federal government need to work out the situation. And then we'll follow any instructions after that," said Tiley. "I did spend some time with Novak at the Laver Cup. We spoke generally. He said that he'd obviously love to come back to Australia but he knows it's going to be an ultimate decision for the federal government. He's accepted that position. It's a private matter between them," Tiley added. In addition, Tiley confirmed that the Russian and Belarusian players will be allowed to take part in the first major tournament of 2023, however, they will have to do so as independent players. ALSO READ | Victor Wembanyama: The 18-year-old 'generational talent' set to light up NBA "The only difference will be that they cannot represent Russia, cannot represent the flag of Russia, cannot participate in any activity such as the anthem of Russia and have to play as independent players," said Tiley. While it seems Djokovic might just have a chance to return to Australia for the big-ticket tournament, opposition politician Karen Andrews -- who was serving as the home affairs minister when the former world number one was deported early this year -- believes there should be no special treatment given to the Serbian. "It would be a slap in the face for those people in Australia who did the right thing, got vaccinated, did everything they needed to do if all of a sudden Novak Djokovic is allowed back into the country simply because he is a high-ranking tennis player with many millions of dollars," Andrews said while speaking on Mornings. Recently, Immigration lawyer Kon-ming Tsai also opened up in this regard. "There is no risk factor here with allowing Djokovic back in. He's not going to create a problem for the community. He is one of the world's best tennis players and will be able to pull in a lot of foreign visitors," Tsai said in a telephone interview with The Associated Press.

'Novak Djokovic would love to play at Australian Open but...' - Tournament chief on Serbian's availability

Waiving Novak Djokovic's visa ban to let him play the Australian Open would be a "slap in the face" for Australian people who vaccinated for COVID-19, opposition lawmaker and former Home Affairs Minister Karen Andrews said on Monday.

Serbian Djokovic was deported from Australia in the leadup to the Grand Slam in January for declining to be vaccinated.

The former world number one is barred from the country until 2025 but can have his three-year visa ban waived by the government.

Australia in July scrapped a rule that required international travellers to declare their COVID vaccination status, and Djokovic has said he was hoping for "positive news" on his bid to play next year's Australian Open.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-want-to-spread-awareness-iga-swiatek-to-donate-ostrava-prize-money-for-mental-health-wins-hearts-524014">'I want to spread awareness' - Iga Swiatek to donate Ostrava prize money for mental health, wins hearts</a>

Andrews said, however, that the rule change should have no bearing on Djokovic's case.

"There would have been other people in similar circumstances that have also had their visas cancelled," the lawmaker told ABC Radio on Monday.

"So if immigration now chooses to make a special allowance for Novak Djokovic the obvious question is what are they going to do about anyone else who may be in similar circumstances?"

No comment was immediately available from Djokovic. Australia's Home Affairs ministry reiterated that it does not comment on individual cases.

Andrews said lifting Djokovic's ban would be a "slap in the face for those people in Australia who did the right thing (and) got vaccinated."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/made-a-mistake-carles-puyol-apologises-for-his-clumsy-joke-on-iker-casillas-i-am-gay-tweet-524054">'Made a mistake': Carles Puyol apologises for his 'clumsy joke' on Iker Casillas' 'I am gay' tweet</a>

"(Why should) Novak Djokovic be allowed back into the country simply because he's a high-ranking tennis player with many millions of dollars?" she added.

"It shouldn't be just one rule for (him) and a different rule for everyone else."

Djokovic, who has won the Australian Open a record nine times, was unable to travel to New York for the recent U.S. Open because he was not vaccinated but said he had no regrets about missing two of the year's four Grand Slams.

Waiving Novak Djokovic's visa ban to let him play the Australian Open would be a "slap in the face" for Australian people who vaccinated for COVID-19, opposition lawmaker and former Home Affairs Minister Karen Andrews said on Monday.

Waiving Novak Djokovic's visa ban to let him play the Australian Open would be a "slap in the face" for Australian people who vaccinated for COVID-19, opposition lawmaker and former Home Affairs Minister Karen Andrews said on Monday. Serbian Djokovic was deported from Australia in the leadup to the Grand Slam in January for declining to be vaccinated. The former world number one is barred from the country until 2025 but can have his three-year visa ban waived by the government. Australia in July scrapped a rule that required international travellers to declare their COVID vaccination status, and Djokovic has said he was hoping for "positive news" on his bid to play next year's Australian Open. Also Read: 'I want to spread awareness' - Iga Swiatek to donate Ostrava prize money for mental health, wins hearts Andrews said, however, that the rule change should have no bearing on Djokovic's case. "There would have been other people in similar circumstances that have also had their visas cancelled," the lawmaker told ABC Radio on Monday. "So if immigration now chooses to make a special allowance for Novak Djokovic the obvious question is what are they going to do about anyone else who may be in similar circumstances?" No comment was immediately available from Djokovic. Australia's Home Affairs ministry reiterated that it does not comment on individual cases. Andrews said lifting Djokovic's ban would be a "slap in the face for those people in Australia who did the right thing (and) got vaccinated." Also Read: 'Made a mistake': Carles Puyol apologises for his 'clumsy joke' on Iker Casillas' 'I am gay' tweet "(Why should) Novak Djokovic be allowed back into the country simply because he's a high-ranking tennis player with many millions of dollars?" she added. "It shouldn't be just one rule for (him) and a different rule for everyone else." Djokovic, who has won the Australian Open a record nine times, was unable to travel to New York for the recent U.S. Open because he was not vaccinated but said he had no regrets about missing two of the year's four Grand Slams.

Waiving Novak Djokovic's ban would be 'slap in the face' for Australia, says ex-minister

Novak Djokovic claimed the 90th title of his career and the fourth of 2022 with a dominant straight-sets victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas in the ATP final in Astana on Sunday.

The 35-year-old Djokovic triumphed 6-3, 6-4 in 75 minutes to add to the trophies he won this season in Israel, Rome and at Wimbledon. It was the ninth consecutive match victory for the fourth seed, who guaranteed himself a spot at the 2022 ATP Finals as a result of the win.

"I dared to dream, actually," Djokovic replied when asked if he had ever imagined he would win 90 titles.&nbsp;

"I always hoped that I would be going to have a great career. Obviously, didn't know the amount of finals I was going to play, the amount of tournaments I was going to win, but my intention was always to reach the highest heights in our sport."

The Serb won in Tel Aviv a week ago, his first singles tournament since wrapping up a seventh Wimbledon crown and 21st Grand Slam title in July. He was banned from the US Open and the entire North American hard court swing over his refusal to be vaccinated before returning for Roger Federer's farewell in the Laver Cup team event in London last month.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serbian-scientists-name-beetle-after-novak-djokovic-523788">Serbian scientists name beetle after country's tennis star Novak Djokovic</a>

His time away had increased his motivation, he agreed. "Well, it did," Djokovic said. "I could not ask for a better re-start of the season. I'm super-pumped and motivated to end the season as well as I have done these past couple of weeks."

For third-seeded Tsitsipas, who had been bidding for a tenth career title, it was a ninth defeat in as many ATP Tour 500-level finals he has played in. Djokovic got off to a flying start, winning the first game at love in a little over one minute.

With Tsitsipas serving at 3-4, Djokovic took the only break point of the first set. Djokovic earned another break in the fifth game of the second set when a Tsitsipas drop shot fell into the net. The Serb converted his third match point with a backhand winner into an open court.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-so-unhappy-he-didnt-score-3-pep-guardiola-reacts-to-erling-haaland-scoring-only-once-vs-southampton-523812">I am so unhappy he didn’t score 3: Pep Guardiola reacts to Erling Haaland scoring only once vs Southampton</a>

"I'm just very grateful and blessed to be able to play this well at this stage of my life," Djokovic added.&nbsp;

"You know, 35 is not 25. But I think the experience, probably, in these kinds of matches and big occasions helps as well to approach mentally in the right way."

Djokovic leads Tsitsipas 8-2 in their meetings and has won the past seven clashes.

Novak Djokovic claimed the 90th title of his career and the fourth of 2022 with a dominant straight-sets victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas in the ATP final in Astana on Sunday.

Novak Djokovic claimed the 90th title of his career and the fourth of 2022 with a dominant straight-sets victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas in the ATP final in Astana on Sunday. The 35-year-old Djokovic triumphed 6-3, 6-4 in 75 minutes to add to the trophies he won this season in Israel, Rome and at Wimbledon. It was the ninth consecutive match victory for the fourth seed, who guaranteed himself a spot at the 2022 ATP Finals as a result of the win. "I dared to dream, actually," Djokovic replied when asked if he had ever imagined he would win 90 titles. "I always hoped that I would be going to have a great career. Obviously, didn't know the amount of finals I was going to play, the amount of tournaments I was going to win, but my intention was always to reach the highest heights in our sport." The Serb won in Tel Aviv a week ago, his first singles tournament since wrapping up a seventh Wimbledon crown and 21st Grand Slam title in July. He was banned from the US Open and the entire North American hard court swing over his refusal to be vaccinated before returning for Roger Federer's farewell in the Laver Cup team event in London last month. Also Read: Serbian scientists name beetle after country's tennis star Novak Djokovic His time away had increased his motivation, he agreed. "Well, it did," Djokovic said. "I could not ask for a better re-start of the season. I'm super-pumped and motivated to end the season as well as I have done these past couple of weeks." For third-seeded Tsitsipas, who had been bidding for a tenth career title, it was a ninth defeat in as many ATP Tour 500-level finals he has played in. Djokovic got off to a flying start, winning the first game at love in a little over one minute. With Tsitsipas serving at 3-4, Djokovic took the only break point of the first set. Djokovic earned another break in the fifth game of the second set when a Tsitsipas drop shot fell into the net. The Serb converted his third match point with a backhand winner into an open court. Also Read: I am so unhappy he didn’t score 3: Pep Guardiola reacts to Erling Haaland scoring only once vs Southampton "I'm just very grateful and blessed to be able to play this well at this stage of my life," Djokovic added. "You know, 35 is not 25. But I think the experience, probably, in these kinds of matches and big occasions helps as well to approach mentally in the right way." Djokovic leads Tsitsipas 8-2 in their meetings and has won the past seven clashes.

Novak Djokovic beats Stefanos Tsitsipas in Astana Open final to bag 90th career title

Scientists in Serbia have named a beetle after their country's legendary tennis star Novak Djokovic, crediting the insect’s speed, strength, flexibility, durability and ability to survive in a difficult environment.

The beetle has been named Duvalius Dokovici, researcher Nikola Vesovic said. According to local media reports, the insect belongs to the Duvalius genus of ground beetles that are present in Europe.

According to Vesovic, the beetle is a specialised underground Coleoptera beetle—a predator which lost its eyes living deep underground.

“I proposed to name the new species after Djokovic,” Vesovic told Tanjug news agency.

“He is the man who did much for this country. We feel urged to pay him back in the way we can.”

In an Instagram post, the scientist described the insect as "a specialised, blind, subterranean ground beetle (Coleoptera, Carabidae) found in a pit near the town of Ljubovija" in the west of the Balkan country.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CjZyfySqq6v/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CjZyfySqq6v/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CjZyfySqq6v/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CjZyfySqq6v/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Nikola Vesović (@insects.veson)</a>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Vsevic published the discovery in the journal “Annales Zoologi Fennici”,&nbsp;

A few months ago, a freshwater snail in Montenegro was also named after the tennis star.

Meanwhile, after a two-month absence, Djokovic finally returned to action. The 35-year-old Tennis maverick, who has won 21 Grand Slam trophies, recently clinched the Tel Aviv Open—his third title this season—after winning a seventh Wimbledon crown in July.

On Friday, he played against Karen Khachanov in the quarter-finals of the Astana Open, which also features fourth-ranked Russian Daniil Medvedev who is also in the last eight. Top seed Carlos Alcaraz was knocked out in the first round.&nbsp;Djokovic claimed the 90th title of his career and the fourth of 2022 with a straight-sets victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas in the final on Sunday.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE: 

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Scientists in Serbia have named a beetle after their country's legendary tennis star Novak Djokovic, crediting the insect’s speed, strength, flexibility, durability and ability to survive in a difficult environment.

Scientists in Serbia have named a beetle after their country's legendary tennis star Novak Djokovic, crediting the insect’s speed, strength, flexibility, durability and ability to survive in a difficult environment. The beetle has been named Duvalius Dokovici, researcher Nikola Vesovic said. According to local media reports, the insect belongs to the Duvalius genus of ground beetles that are present in Europe. According to Vesovic, the beetle is a specialised underground Coleoptera beetle—a predator which lost its eyes living deep underground. “I proposed to name the new species after Djokovic,” Vesovic told Tanjug news agency. “He is the man who did much for this country. We feel urged to pay him back in the way we can.” In an Instagram post, the scientist described the insect as "a specialised, blind, subterranean ground beetle (Coleoptera, Carabidae) found in a pit near the town of Ljubovija" in the west of the Balkan country. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nikola Vesović (@insects.veson) × Vsevic published the discovery in the journal “Annales Zoologi Fennici”, A few months ago, a freshwater snail in Montenegro was also named after the tennis star. Meanwhile, after a two-month absence, Djokovic finally returned to action. The 35-year-old Tennis maverick, who has won 21 Grand Slam trophies, recently clinched the Tel Aviv Open—his third title this season—after winning a seventh Wimbledon crown in July. On Friday, he played against Karen Khachanov in the quarter-finals of the Astana Open, which also features fourth-ranked Russian Daniil Medvedev who is also in the last eight. Top seed Carlos Alcaraz was knocked out in the first round. Djokovic claimed the 90th title of his career and the fourth of 2022 with a straight-sets victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas in the final on Sunday. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Serbian scientists name beetle after country's tennis star Novak Djokovic

Novak Djokovic reached the final of the ATP tournament in Astana on Saturday as opponent Daniil Medvedev surprisingly retired at the end of the second set. With the score at 4-6, 7-6 (8/6), Medvedev called it quits before the deciding set, with even Djokovic initially appearing surprised.

"It's the second time in my life I retired like this with a pulled muscle," Medvedev said. "So here, on the second point of the tie-break, I felt a little bit (of a) strange pop in my adductor.

"I first thought maybe it is cramp and after the point I was like, 'No, probably not a cramp'.

"And during the tie-break, I felt I can play like five, 10 more points but that's it. If I play one more set, you can do it, but you can probably miss half a year instead of one month."

Djokovic will face Stefanos Tstisipas in Sunday's final as he bids for a 90th ATP title.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl-toughens-concussion-protocol-in-wake-of-miami-star-tua-tagovailoas-injury-523727">NFL toughens concussion protocol in wake of Miami star Tua Tagovailoa's injury</a>

The 21-time Grand Slam champion has won seven of his nine meetings with the Greek, including in last year's French Open final. Medvedev became the first player to take a set off Djokovic in a singles event since Nick Kyrgios in the Wimbledon final.

Djokovic levelled a dramatic match, in which both players were near their very best, in a tense tie-break. But Medvedev signalled that he could not continue, sending Djokovic into his 128th ATP final.

"It was such a close match, particularly in the second set," added Djokovic of the battle between two former world number ones.

"I would probably say he was a better player on the court in both sets.

"I was fighting and trying to find a way. I found a way to win the second, but I'm just sad for the tournament and for these people who were enjoying the battle, and for Daniil, that it had to end this way."

Earlier, third seed Tsitsipas beat Andrey Rublev 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 to reach his sixth final of the season.

"It was not easy, being a set down," said Tsitsipas. "To have to deal with a very good opponent on the other side of the net made it an extremely physical battle.

"I am pleased with myself for being so determined to make it work so well."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-sets-up-daniil-medvedev-clash-in-astana-open-semi-finals-523542">Novak Djokovic sets up Daniil Medvedev clash in Astana Open semi-finals</a>

A break in the opening game of the match proved enough to give fifth seed Rublev the first set. But Tsitsipas, who saved five of six break points in the match, improved as the tie went on and he made his move in the 10th game of the second set to force a decider.

The 24-year-old was rock solid again in the third, wrapping up victory after two hours and 10 minutes to take his head-to-head record against Rublev to 6-4.

"My mentality kind of changed," Tsitsipas added. "I played with more of an aggressive game style and didn't have anything by luck."&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Novak Djokovic reached the final of the ATP tournament in Astana on Saturday as opponent Daniil Medvedev surprisingly retired at the end of the second set. With the score at 4-6, 7-6 (8/6), Medvedev called it quits before the deciding set, with even Djokovic initially appearing surprised.

Novak Djokovic reached the final of the ATP tournament in Astana on Saturday as opponent Daniil Medvedev surprisingly retired at the end of the second set. With the score at 4-6, 7-6 (8/6), Medvedev called it quits before the deciding set, with even Djokovic initially appearing surprised. "It's the second time in my life I retired like this with a pulled muscle," Medvedev said. "So here, on the second point of the tie-break, I felt a little bit (of a) strange pop in my adductor. "I first thought maybe it is cramp and after the point I was like, 'No, probably not a cramp'. "And during the tie-break, I felt I can play like five, 10 more points but that's it. If I play one more set, you can do it, but you can probably miss half a year instead of one month." Djokovic will face Stefanos Tstisipas in Sunday's final as he bids for a 90th ATP title. Also Read: NFL toughens concussion protocol in wake of Miami star Tua Tagovailoa's injury The 21-time Grand Slam champion has won seven of his nine meetings with the Greek, including in last year's French Open final. Medvedev became the first player to take a set off Djokovic in a singles event since Nick Kyrgios in the Wimbledon final. Djokovic levelled a dramatic match, in which both players were near their very best, in a tense tie-break. But Medvedev signalled that he could not continue, sending Djokovic into his 128th ATP final. "It was such a close match, particularly in the second set," added Djokovic of the battle between two former world number ones. "I would probably say he was a better player on the court in both sets. "I was fighting and trying to find a way. I found a way to win the second, but I'm just sad for the tournament and for these people who were enjoying the battle, and for Daniil, that it had to end this way." Earlier, third seed Tsitsipas beat Andrey Rublev 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 to reach his sixth final of the season. "It was not easy, being a set down," said Tsitsipas. "To have to deal with a very good opponent on the other side of the net made it an extremely physical battle. "I am pleased with myself for being so determined to make it work so well." Also Read: Novak Djokovic sets up Daniil Medvedev clash in Astana Open semi-finals A break in the opening game of the match proved enough to give fifth seed Rublev the first set. But Tsitsipas, who saved five of six break points in the match, improved as the tie went on and he made his move in the 10th game of the second set to force a decider. The 24-year-old was rock solid again in the third, wrapping up victory after two hours and 10 minutes to take his head-to-head record against Rublev to 6-4. "My mentality kind of changed," Tsitsipas added. "I played with more of an aggressive game style and didn't have anything by luck."

Novak Djokovic reaches Astana Open final after Daniil Medvedev retires in semis, on verge of 90th title

Novak Djokovic dominated Russian Karen Khachanov 6-4, 6-3 to reach the Astana ATP semi-finals on Friday where he will face Daniil Medvedev.

"I didn't play as well from the baseline as I did in the first two matches, but still it was enough," said Djokovic.&nbsp;

"I managed to produce some good tennis when it was the most needed in both sets."

Facing the US Open semi-finalist, the Serb dropped serve for the first time this week but still has not lost a set since returning to the ATP Tour after a three-month break following his Wimbledon title.

He made his comeback at the Laver Cup team event in London before winning the Tel Aviv tournament last weekend for his 89th career crown.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/britains-teen-star-emma-raducanu-out-of-transylvania-open-due-to-wrist-injury-522983">Britain's teen star Emma Raducanu out of Transylvania Open due to wrist injury</a>

In the semi-finals, Djokovic will face world number four Medvedev, the man who ended his bid for a calendar Grand Slam in 2021 by winning the US Open.

"I always expect highs from myself," said 21-time Grand Slam title winner Djokovic.&nbsp;

"Hopefully I can elevate still the level of my game for tomorrow because it's going to be needed."

Medvedev made the last four by seeing off Roberto Bautista Agut of Spain 6-1, 6-1 to record his 40th win of 2022.&nbsp;Second seed Medvedev trails Djokovic 6-4 in career meetings.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wayne-rooney-urges-out-of-favour-cristiano-ronaldo-to-stay-patient-at-manchester-united-523522">Wayne Rooney urges out-of-favour Cristiano Ronaldo to stay patient at Manchester United</a>

"I am really happy to play against Novak," Medvedev said.&nbsp;

"I thought about it before the match and we have only played one tournament together this year, which was Roland Garros. This is the second one and we meet again and I am really happy."

In Saturday's other semi-finals, Andrey Rublev, the fifth seed from Russia, will tackle Greek third seed Stefanos Tsitsipas. On Friday, Rublev defeated Adrian Mannarino 6-1, 6-2 while Tsitsipas saw off Hubert Hurkacz 7-6 (10/8), 6-3.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Novak Djokovic dominated Russian Karen Khachanov 6-4, 6-3 to reach the Astana ATP semi-finals on Friday where he will face Daniil Medvedev. "I didn't play as well from the baseline as I did in the first two matches, but still it was enough," said Djokovic.

Novak Djokovic dominated Russian Karen Khachanov 6-4, 6-3 to reach the Astana ATP semi-finals on Friday where he will face Daniil Medvedev. "I didn't play as well from the baseline as I did in the first two matches, but still it was enough," said Djokovic. "I managed to produce some good tennis when it was the most needed in both sets." Facing the US Open semi-finalist, the Serb dropped serve for the first time this week but still has not lost a set since returning to the ATP Tour after a three-month break following his Wimbledon title. He made his comeback at the Laver Cup team event in London before winning the Tel Aviv tournament last weekend for his 89th career crown. Also Read: Britain's teen star Emma Raducanu out of Transylvania Open due to wrist injury In the semi-finals, Djokovic will face world number four Medvedev, the man who ended his bid for a calendar Grand Slam in 2021 by winning the US Open. "I always expect highs from myself," said 21-time Grand Slam title winner Djokovic. "Hopefully I can elevate still the level of my game for tomorrow because it's going to be needed." Medvedev made the last four by seeing off Roberto Bautista Agut of Spain 6-1, 6-1 to record his 40th win of 2022. Second seed Medvedev trails Djokovic 6-4 in career meetings. Also Read: Wayne Rooney urges out-of-favour Cristiano Ronaldo to stay patient at Manchester United "I am really happy to play against Novak," Medvedev said. "I thought about it before the match and we have only played one tournament together this year, which was Roland Garros. This is the second one and we meet again and I am really happy." In Saturday's other semi-finals, Andrey Rublev, the fifth seed from Russia, will tackle Greek third seed Stefanos Tsitsipas. On Friday, Rublev defeated Adrian Mannarino 6-1, 6-2 while Tsitsipas saw off Hubert Hurkacz 7-6 (10/8), 6-3.

Novak Djokovic sets up Daniil Medvedev clash in Astana Open semi-finals

Novak Djokovic brushed aside Chile's Cristian Garin 6-1, 6-1 in 64 minutes on Wednesday as he breezed into the second round of the Astana Open. Coming off his 89th career title in Tel Aviv last weekend, Djokovic broke an overmatched Garin five times to continue his push for a place in the season-ending ATP Finals.

"From the start to the end, (it was) a great performance," said Djokovic.&nbsp;"Playing in a new tournament, different conditions, the first match is never easy. Obviously you are looking to see how you are going to adapt, but I did it perfectly, really, played as well as I can."

The Serb is the only player to win ATP tournaments on clay, grass and hard courts this year. He will play Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp for a place in the quarter-finals. "Coming into this tournament I feel confident, I feel excited, I feel motivated, so I think that helps as well to adjust quickly," added Djokovic.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/qatar-slashes-office-hours-to-reduce-traffic-jams-for-fifa-world-cup-522808">Qatar slashes office hours to reduce traffic jams for FIFA World Cup</a>

Third seed Stefanos Tsitsipas ended the run of Italian qualifier Luca Nardi, advancing 7-6 (7/2), 7-6 (7/3). He goes on to face Kazakhstan's Alexander Bublik or Hubert Hurkacz. Andrey Rublev, seeded fifth, defeated China's Zhang Zhizhen 6-3, 6-2 in his second round match. Rublev meets Adrian Mannarino next after the Frenchman put out David Goffin, who shocked world number one Carlos Alcaraz in the opening round.

Roberto Bautista Agut beat lucky loser Pavel Kotov 6-1, 7-6 (7/5) and could play Daniil Medvedev in the quarter-finals. Marin Cilic, the runner-up to Djokovic in Tel Aviv, won his opener 5-7, 7-6 (7/4), 6-2 against Germany's Oscar Otte. Switzerland's Marc-Andrea Huesler, who won his first ATP title in Sofia last week, was dumped out by Emil Ruusuvuori 6-0, 6-2.

Novak Djokovic brushed aside Chile's Cristian Garin 6-1, 6-1 in 64 minutes on Wednesday as he breezed into the second round of the Astana Open. Coming off his 89th career title in Tel Aviv last weekend, Djokovic broke an overmatched Garin five times to continue his push for a place in the season-ending ATP Finals.

Novak Djokovic brushed aside Chile's Cristian Garin 6-1, 6-1 in 64 minutes on Wednesday as he breezed into the second round of the Astana Open. Coming off his 89th career title in Tel Aviv last weekend, Djokovic broke an overmatched Garin five times to continue his push for a place in the season-ending ATP Finals. "From the start to the end, (it was) a great performance," said Djokovic. "Playing in a new tournament, different conditions, the first match is never easy. Obviously you are looking to see how you are going to adapt, but I did it perfectly, really, played as well as I can." The Serb is the only player to win ATP tournaments on clay, grass and hard courts this year. He will play Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp for a place in the quarter-finals. "Coming into this tournament I feel confident, I feel excited, I feel motivated, so I think that helps as well to adjust quickly," added Djokovic. ALSO READ | Qatar slashes office hours to reduce traffic jams for FIFA World Cup Third seed Stefanos Tsitsipas ended the run of Italian qualifier Luca Nardi, advancing 7-6 (7/2), 7-6 (7/3). He goes on to face Kazakhstan's Alexander Bublik or Hubert Hurkacz. Andrey Rublev, seeded fifth, defeated China's Zhang Zhizhen 6-3, 6-2 in his second round match. Rublev meets Adrian Mannarino next after the Frenchman put out David Goffin, who shocked world number one Carlos Alcaraz in the opening round. Roberto Bautista Agut beat lucky loser Pavel Kotov 6-1, 7-6 (7/5) and could play Daniil Medvedev in the quarter-finals. Marin Cilic, the runner-up to Djokovic in Tel Aviv, won his opener 5-7, 7-6 (7/4), 6-2 against Germany's Oscar Otte. Switzerland's Marc-Andrea Huesler, who won his first ATP title in Sofia last week, was dumped out by Emil Ruusuvuori 6-0, 6-2.

Novak Djokovic cruises ahead in Astana; Stefanos Tsitsipas and Andrey Rublev enter quarters

Top seed&nbsp;Novak&nbsp;Djokovic produced a stellar display to sweep aside Croatian Marin Cilic 6-3, 6-4 in the final of the ATP 250 Tel Aviv Open on Sunday and clinch his third title of the season.

Djokovic, playing in his first singles event since winning a seventh Wimbledon crown in July, launched an early attack on his opponent's formidable serve as he broke Cilic in the second game before going on to take the opener in just under 50 minutes.

Cilic, largely untroubled on serve all week, found himself under constant pressure against the Serbian's deep returns and was broken again in the first game of the second set, allowing Djokovic to seize control of the match.

The 21-times major winner did not relinquish that advantage as he stayed perfect on his own delivery to secure his 89th career title and 19th victory over former U.S. Open champion Cilic in 21 meetings.

The title should come as a major boost for Djokovic, who missed the US Open and the North American hardcourt swing due to his decision not to get vaccinated against COVID-19 before returning to action at the Laver Cup team event in London.

The 35-year-old's next stop is the ATP 500 Astana Open, which kicks off on Monday and will feature world number one Carlos Alcaraz and Daniil Medvedev.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Top seed Novak Djokovic produced a stellar display to sweep aside Croatian Marin Cilic 6-3, 6-4 in the final of the ATP 250 Tel Aviv Open on Sunday and clinch his third title of the season.

Top seed Novak Djokovic produced a stellar display to sweep aside Croatian Marin Cilic 6-3, 6-4 in the final of the ATP 250 Tel Aviv Open on Sunday and clinch his third title of the season. Djokovic, playing in his first singles event since winning a seventh Wimbledon crown in July, launched an early attack on his opponent's formidable serve as he broke Cilic in the second game before going on to take the opener in just under 50 minutes. Cilic, largely untroubled on serve all week, found himself under constant pressure against the Serbian's deep returns and was broken again in the first game of the second set, allowing Djokovic to seize control of the match. The 21-times major winner did not relinquish that advantage as he stayed perfect on his own delivery to secure his 89th career title and 19th victory over former U.S. Open champion Cilic in 21 meetings. The title should come as a major boost for Djokovic, who missed the US Open and the North American hardcourt swing due to his decision not to get vaccinated against COVID-19 before returning to action at the Laver Cup team event in London. The 35-year-old's next stop is the ATP 500 Astana Open, which kicks off on Monday and will feature world number one Carlos Alcaraz and Daniil Medvedev. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Novak Djokovic cruises past Marin Cilic to capture Tel Aviv title

Novak&nbsp;Djokovic, playing a singles tournament for the first time since winning Wimbledon in July, reached the Tel Aviv quarter-finals on Thursday with a straight-sets victory over Spain's Pablo Andujar.

Djokovic&nbsp;eased to a 6-0, 6-3 win over his 115th-ranked opponent in 86 minutes, firing 30 winners and breaking Andujar four times. It was the fewest games&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;has lost in any match this season. He was always in control against his Spanish rival who he has now defeated three times, taking control of the match by winning the first seven games.

"The first match started off in a perfect way for me," said&nbsp;Djokovic, who last played in Israel as a teenager 16 years ago in a Davis Cup tie. "I won seven games in a row and we were fighting in that eighth game (which took over 20 minutes to complete).

"It was one of the longest games I've ever played in my life and I've played many, many games in my life. But credit to Pablo for fighting and playing a great match as well."

Former world number one&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;hasn't played a singles event since capturing a seventh Wimbledon title 10 weeks ago after his refusal to get vaccinated ruled him out of the US Open and the entire American hardcourt swing.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thank-you-roger-federer-reacts-to-virat-kohlis-heartfelt-video-on-his-retirement-520930">'Thank you...' - Roger Federer reacts to Virat Kohli's heartfelt video on his retirement</a>

His only other appearance had been in the Laver Cup team tournament in London last week. It was there that he saw long-time rival Roger Federer retire from the sport. However, the 35-year-old&nbsp;Djokovic, now ranked at seven in the world, insisted on the eve of the Tel Aviv event that retirement was not on his agenda.

"I still want to play tennis even though I achieved pretty much everything that you can achieve in tennis," said&nbsp;Djokovic, whose 21 Grand Slam titles is just one short of Rafael Nadal's men's record of 22. "I still have passion and hunger to play at a highest professional level."

Djokovic, showing no sign of the right wrist trouble which bothered him in London, will face Canada's 149th-ranked Vasek Pospisil in Friday's quarter-finals. The Serb boasts a 5-0 career record over the 32-year-old Canadian. Pospisil reached the last-eight by eliminating Israeli qualifier&nbsp;Edan Leshem&nbsp;6-3, 6-2. France's Arthur Rinderknech&nbsp;saved a match point to clinch a 6-3, 2-6, 7-6 (9/7) win against third seed&nbsp;Diego Schwartzman.

The world number 58 will next play&nbsp;Roman Safiullin. British qualifier&nbsp;Liam Broady&nbsp;stunned fifth seed&nbsp;Botic van de Zandschulp&nbsp;6-4, 4-6, 6-3 to set up a meeting with second seed&nbsp;Marin Cilic.

Novak Djokovic, playing a singles tournament for the first time since winning Wimbledon in July, reached the Tel Aviv quarter-finals on Thursday with a straight-sets victory over Spain's Pablo Andujar.

Novak Djokovic, playing a singles tournament for the first time since winning Wimbledon in July, reached the Tel Aviv quarter-finals on Thursday with a straight-sets victory over Spain's Pablo Andujar. Djokovic eased to a 6-0, 6-3 win over his 115th-ranked opponent in 86 minutes, firing 30 winners and breaking Andujar four times. It was the fewest games Djokovic has lost in any match this season. He was always in control against his Spanish rival who he has now defeated three times, taking control of the match by winning the first seven games. "The first match started off in a perfect way for me," said Djokovic, who last played in Israel as a teenager 16 years ago in a Davis Cup tie. "I won seven games in a row and we were fighting in that eighth game (which took over 20 minutes to complete). "It was one of the longest games I've ever played in my life and I've played many, many games in my life. But credit to Pablo for fighting and playing a great match as well." Former world number one Djokovic hasn't played a singles event since capturing a seventh Wimbledon title 10 weeks ago after his refusal to get vaccinated ruled him out of the US Open and the entire American hardcourt swing. ALSO READ | 'Thank you...' - Roger Federer reacts to Virat Kohli's heartfelt video on his retirement His only other appearance had been in the Laver Cup team tournament in London last week. It was there that he saw long-time rival Roger Federer retire from the sport. However, the 35-year-old Djokovic, now ranked at seven in the world, insisted on the eve of the Tel Aviv event that retirement was not on his agenda. "I still want to play tennis even though I achieved pretty much everything that you can achieve in tennis," said Djokovic, whose 21 Grand Slam titles is just one short of Rafael Nadal's men's record of 22. "I still have passion and hunger to play at a highest professional level." Djokovic, showing no sign of the right wrist trouble which bothered him in London, will face Canada's 149th-ranked Vasek Pospisil in Friday's quarter-finals. The Serb boasts a 5-0 career record over the 32-year-old Canadian. Pospisil reached the last-eight by eliminating Israeli qualifier Edan Leshem 6-3, 6-2. France's Arthur Rinderknech saved a match point to clinch a 6-3, 2-6, 7-6 (9/7) win against third seed Diego Schwartzman. The world number 58 will next play Roman Safiullin. British qualifier Liam Broady stunned fifth seed Botic van de Zandschulp 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 to set up a meeting with second seed Marin Cilic.

Former world number one Novak Djokovic makes winning return to ATP action in Tel Aviv

Novak Djokovic said he was bothered by a wrist problem during the Laver Cup in London and that his lengthy absence from the Tour recently could be to blame.

The three-day tournament in London's O2 Arena was Djokovic's first event since the Serb won his 21st Grand Slam singles title at Wimbledon in early July.

The 35-year-old, who missed the North American hardcourt swing and the U.S. Open due to not being vaccinated against COVID-19, produced a dazzling performance on his return to the Tour on Saturday by winning his singles and doubles matches.

However, he lost to Canada's Felix Auger-Aliassime on the final day of competition on Sunday.

"I have been struggling with my right wrist for the last four, five days, to be honest. I have been keeping it under control," Djokovic told reporters.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-roger-federer-leaves-everyone-in-tears-as-he-bids-adieu-to-tennis-519333">In pics| Roger Federer leaves everyone in tears as he bids adieu to tennis</a>

"The two matches yesterday probably had an effect. Today was not easy. I couldn't serve as fast or as accurately as I would like to. That has affected the whole game."

Djokovic said qualifying for November's ATP Finals in Turin remained his goal and that he will play a tournament in Tel Aviv this week followed by an event in Kazakhstan next week and then the Paris Masters at the end of October.

His Wimbledon victory guarantees him a spot in the Tour-ending Finals if he remains ranked in the world's top 20.

Djokovic, who is currently ranked seventh, said the wrist issue could be due to a combination of factors.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tiafoe-steals-federers-spotlight-to-seal-first-laver-cup-title-for-team-world-519644">Tiafoe steals Federer's spotlight to seal first Laver Cup title for Team World</a>

"Could be not playing matches almost three months, and then conditions here are such that the balls are really big and slow," he said.

"You always have to generate a lot of wrist action and speed, which could be the case why I have been feeling soreness."

Novak Djokovic said he was bothered by a wrist problem during the Laver Cup in London and that his lengthy absence from the Tour recently could be to blame. The three-day tournament in London's O2 Arena was Djokovic's first event since the Serb won his 21st Grand Slam singles title at Wimbledon in early July.

Novak Djokovic said he was bothered by a wrist problem during the Laver Cup in London and that his lengthy absence from the Tour recently could be to blame. The three-day tournament in London's O2 Arena was Djokovic's first event since the Serb won his 21st Grand Slam singles title at Wimbledon in early July. The 35-year-old, who missed the North American hardcourt swing and the U.S. Open due to not being vaccinated against COVID-19, produced a dazzling performance on his return to the Tour on Saturday by winning his singles and doubles matches. However, he lost to Canada's Felix Auger-Aliassime on the final day of competition on Sunday. "I have been struggling with my right wrist for the last four, five days, to be honest. I have been keeping it under control," Djokovic told reporters. Also Read: In pics| Roger Federer leaves everyone in tears as he bids adieu to tennis "The two matches yesterday probably had an effect. Today was not easy. I couldn't serve as fast or as accurately as I would like to. That has affected the whole game." Djokovic said qualifying for November's ATP Finals in Turin remained his goal and that he will play a tournament in Tel Aviv this week followed by an event in Kazakhstan next week and then the Paris Masters at the end of October. His Wimbledon victory guarantees him a spot in the Tour-ending Finals if he remains ranked in the world's top 20. Djokovic, who is currently ranked seventh, said the wrist issue could be due to a combination of factors. Also Read: Tiafoe steals Federer's spotlight to seal first Laver Cup title for Team World "Could be not playing matches almost three months, and then conditions here are such that the balls are really big and slow," he said. "You always have to generate a lot of wrist action and speed, which could be the case why I have been feeling soreness."

Novak Djokovic opens up on wrist injury concerns, says ATP Finals remains his goal

Roger Federer's departure from tennis has raised the question of retirement of the other two members of the revered 'Big Three' but Novak Djokovic has assured that he does not feel "old enough" to consider bringing down the curtain yet.

Federer's decision was not unexpected given the 41-year-old's recent struggles with injuries and form, but it was still met with an outpouring of sadness by fans and former players when the Swiss great bid an emotional goodbye to the sport.

His exit has brought the longevity of his great rivals, Rafa Nadal and Djokovic, in sharper focus while fans and pundits have wondered how men's tennis would cope with the prospect of losing their most marketable athletes.

"I don't feel yet so old, to be honest, for my tennis career to finish," Djokovic told reporters on Saturday after returning to tennis for the first time since winning his 21st Grand Slam singles title at Wimbledon.

"I still feel my body is serving me, is listening to me well. That's the key I think when you get to 35-plus."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-was-close-to-retiring-thought-french-open-this-year-might-be-my-last-tournament-rafael-nadal-519556">I was close to retiring, thought French Open this year might be my last tournament: Rafael Nadal</a>

The so-called men's 'Big Three' revolutionised the sport with their own achievements and riveting rivalries. They have won a combined 63 Grand Slam singles titles between them.

A chronic foot issue forced Nadal to contemplate retirement in 2021 and again this year after the 36-year-old Spaniard won a men's record 22nd major title at the French Open, playing with numbing injections before each match in Paris.

Nadal said he was not contemplating retirement at the moment after a radio frequency treatment eased pain in his foot and allowed him to play Wimbledon.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-roger-federer-leaves-everyone-in-tears-as-he-bids-adieu-to-tennis-519333">In pics| Roger Federer leaves everyone in tears as he bids adieu to tennis</a>

Djokovic, the fittest among the three, said he has made necessary adjustments to his schedule to look after his body.

"I'm not playing as much as I played few years ago. I want to peak at the best tournaments, biggest tournaments in the world, which are Grand Slams and some of the biggest ATP events, playing for my country," the Serb added.

"That's what gives me the most motivation and inspires me to play the best tennis. I really want to keep going. I don't have the ending of my career on the horizon at the moment.

"I just want to keep going as long as I feel good and I can compete with the youngsters, that I could be one of the candidates to win Grand Slams."

Roger Federer's departure from tennis has raised the question of retirement of the other two members of the revered 'Big Three' but Novak Djokovic has assured that he does not feel "old enough" to consider bringing down the curtain yet.

Roger Federer's departure from tennis has raised the question of retirement of the other two members of the revered 'Big Three' but Novak Djokovic has assured that he does not feel "old enough" to consider bringing down the curtain yet. Federer's decision was not unexpected given the 41-year-old's recent struggles with injuries and form, but it was still met with an outpouring of sadness by fans and former players when the Swiss great bid an emotional goodbye to the sport. His exit has brought the longevity of his great rivals, Rafa Nadal and Djokovic, in sharper focus while fans and pundits have wondered how men's tennis would cope with the prospect of losing their most marketable athletes. "I don't feel yet so old, to be honest, for my tennis career to finish," Djokovic told reporters on Saturday after returning to tennis for the first time since winning his 21st Grand Slam singles title at Wimbledon. "I still feel my body is serving me, is listening to me well. That's the key I think when you get to 35-plus." Also Read: I was close to retiring, thought French Open this year might be my last tournament: Rafael Nadal The so-called men's 'Big Three' revolutionised the sport with their own achievements and riveting rivalries. They have won a combined 63 Grand Slam singles titles between them. A chronic foot issue forced Nadal to contemplate retirement in 2021 and again this year after the 36-year-old Spaniard won a men's record 22nd major title at the French Open, playing with numbing injections before each match in Paris. Nadal said he was not contemplating retirement at the moment after a radio frequency treatment eased pain in his foot and allowed him to play Wimbledon. Also Read: In pics| Roger Federer leaves everyone in tears as he bids adieu to tennis Djokovic, the fittest among the three, said he has made necessary adjustments to his schedule to look after his body. "I'm not playing as much as I played few years ago. I want to peak at the best tournaments, biggest tournaments in the world, which are Grand Slams and some of the biggest ATP events, playing for my country," the Serb added. "That's what gives me the most motivation and inspires me to play the best tennis. I really want to keep going. I don't have the ending of my career on the horizon at the moment. "I just want to keep going as long as I feel good and I can compete with the youngsters, that I could be one of the candidates to win Grand Slams."

Novak Djokovic, fit and still driven, not thinking about retirement

The dreaded day has finally arrived when Roger Federer will play his last professional match. On Friday (September 23), but in the wee hours as per IST, the former world number one and Swiss maestro Federer will take on the court for his final competitive match in the opening day of the Laver Cup. The Laver Cup, which will see Team Europe take on Team World, will get underway on September 23 and conclude on September 25 (Sunday). During the three-day mega event in London, all eyes will be on Federer as it will be his swansong from tennis.

Much to the delight of the Fedal fans, Federer will team up with his long-time rival and friend Rafael Nadal in his final match, where the two legends will square off with&nbsp;Team World's&nbsp;American duo Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe at the O2 Arena, London. It is expected to be a thrilling atmosphere as the two will be eager to give fans plenty to cheer for before Federer calls it quits.&nbsp;

Here are the live streaming details of the Laver Cup 2022 match featuring Fedal:

Where is the 2022 Laver Cup being held?

The 2022 Laver Cup is taking place&nbsp;at the The O2 Arena, in London.

At what time will the Roger Federer-Rafael Nadal doubles match take place in the 2022 Laver Cup?

Fedal's doubles match at the 2022 Laver Cup will begin at 12:50 AM (September 24) IST.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sampras-pays-heartfelt-tribute-to-roger-federer-as-swiss-maestro-gears-up-for-farewell-at-laver-cup-watch-518953">Sampras pays heartfelt tribute to Roger Federer as Swiss maestro gears up for farewell at Laver Cup - WATCH</a>

Which TV channel in India&nbsp;will broadcast the Fedal match at the 2022 Laver Cup?

The much-awaited Fedal match at the 2022 Laver Cup will have a live broadcast on Sony Sports Network in India.

How can one watch live streaming of the Fedal match at 2022 Laver Cup in India?

The 2022 Laver Cup can be live streamed in the country on SonyLiv app and website.

What are the teams for Laver Cup 2022?

Team Europe:&nbsp;Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Andy Murray, Casper Ruud.

Team World:&nbsp;Alex de Minaur, Felix Auger-Aliassime, Frances Tiafoe, Taylor Fritz, Jack Sock, Diego Schwartzman.

The dreaded day has finally arrived when Roger Federer will play his last professional match. On Friday (September 23), but in the wee hours as per IST, the former world number one and Swiss maestro Federer will take on the court for his final competitive match in the opening day of the Laver Cup.

The dreaded day has finally arrived when Roger Federer will play his last professional match. On Friday (September 23), but in the wee hours as per IST, the former world number one and Swiss maestro Federer will take on the court for his final competitive match in the opening day of the Laver Cup. The Laver Cup, which will see Team Europe take on Team World, will get underway on September 23 and conclude on September 25 (Sunday). During the three-day mega event in London, all eyes will be on Federer as it will be his swansong from tennis. Much to the delight of the Fedal fans, Federer will team up with his long-time rival and friend Rafael Nadal in his final match, where the two legends will square off with Team World's American duo Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe at the O2 Arena, London. It is expected to be a thrilling atmosphere as the two will be eager to give fans plenty to cheer for before Federer calls it quits. Here are the live streaming details of the Laver Cup 2022 match featuring Fedal: Where is the 2022 Laver Cup being held? The 2022 Laver Cup is taking place at the The O2 Arena, in London. At what time will the Roger Federer-Rafael Nadal doubles match take place in the 2022 Laver Cup? Fedal's doubles match at the 2022 Laver Cup will begin at 12:50 AM (September 24) IST. ALSO READ | Sampras pays heartfelt tribute to Roger Federer as Swiss maestro gears up for farewell at Laver Cup - WATCH Which TV channel in India will broadcast the Fedal match at the 2022 Laver Cup? The much-awaited Fedal match at the 2022 Laver Cup will have a live broadcast on Sony Sports Network in India. How can one watch live streaming of the Fedal match at 2022 Laver Cup in India? The 2022 Laver Cup can be live streamed in the country on SonyLiv app and website. What are the teams for Laver Cup 2022? Team Europe: Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Andy Murray, Casper Ruud. Team World: Alex de Minaur, Felix Auger-Aliassime, Frances Tiafoe, Taylor Fritz, Jack Sock, Diego Schwartzman.

Laver Cup 2022, Roger Federer's farewell match: When and where to watch Fedal's doubles match in India?

Roger Federer wants to bring the curtain down on his glittering career by teaming up with long-time rival Rafael Nadal at the Laver Cup in London on Friday. The 20-time Grand Slam winner announced last week that he intended to retire after the three-day tournament at London's 02 arena, which starts on Friday.

Federer, whose most recent competitive match was a loss to Hubert Hurkacz in last year's Wimbledon quarter-finals, has been struggling with a knee problem. The Swiss great confirmed on Wednesday that the final match of his long and illustrious career will be in the doubles on Friday evening.

Italian Matteo Berrettini, the first alternate for the tournament that pits Team Europe against Team World, will then take Federer's place over the weekend. The Swiss great does not yet know whether he will be able to link up with Nadal but said it would be the dream scenario. "Of course, no doubt," he told a packed press conference at the O2. "I mean, I think it could be quite a unique situation, you know, that if it were to happen."

Federer said he and Nadal, 36, had always maintained a respect for each other even as they vied for the biggest trophies in the sport. "For us as well to go through a career that we both have had and to come out on the other side and being able to have a nice relationship I think is maybe a great message as well to not just tennis but sports and maybe even beyond," he said.

"For that reason I think it would be great. I don't know if it's going to happen, but I think it could be obviously a special moment."

Nadal, who holds the record for Grand Slam titles in men's tennis with 22, Novak Djokovic, who has won 21, and three-time major winner Andy Murray are all part of the six-man Team Europe, captained by Bjorn Borg. Their opponents, Team World, skippered by John McEnroe, include Taylor Fritz, Felix Auger-Aliassime and Diego Schwartzman.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-stopped-believing-i-could-come-back-roger-federer-ahead-of-his-final-bow-at-laver-cup-2022-518373">I stopped believing I could come back: Roger Federer ahead of his final bow at Laver Cup 2022</a>

<h2>- 'Bittersweet' -</h2>

Federer said he was happy to step away from tennis at the age of 41 but admitted it was a "bittersweet decision". "You always want to play forever," he said. "I love being out on court, I love playing against the guys, I love travelling.&nbsp; "I never really felt like it was that hard for me to do, of winning, learn from losing, it was all perfect. I love my career from every angle."

The Swiss said he was happy with his place in the debate over who is the greatest of all time in the men's game even though his tally of Grand Slam titles has been eclipsed by Nadal and Djokovic. "I'm definitely very proud and very happy where I sit," he said.&nbsp;

One of my big moments of course was winning my 15th slam at Wimbledon, you know, when Pete (Sampras, who had won a then-record 14) was sitting there. Anything after that was a bonus."

Federer said it was fitting that he would finish his career in London, where he has enjoyed so much success. "This city has been special to me, maybe the most special place with Wimbledon down the road and here at the O2. Having played here and qualified for so many years and won here as well (in the ATP Finals), I just thought it was very fitting."

He said he said he had no intention of disappearing off the radar despite his looming retirement. "I just wanted to let the fans know I won't be a ghost, you know. It's funny, you know, I talked about Bjorn Borg just before.&nbsp;

"I don't think he returned to Wimbledon for 25 years. That, in a way, hurts every tennis fan. Totally acceptable, his life, his reasons.&nbsp; "But I don't think I'll be that guy and I feel tennis has given me too much. I have been around the game for too long, have fallen in love with too many things."

Roger Federer wants to bring the curtain down on his glittering career by teaming up with long-time rival Rafael Nadal at the Laver Cup in London on Friday. The 20-time Grand Slam winner announced last week that he intended to retire after the three-day tournament at London's 02 arena, which starts on Friday.

Roger Federer wants to bring the curtain down on his glittering career by teaming up with long-time rival Rafael Nadal at the Laver Cup in London on Friday. The 20-time Grand Slam winner announced last week that he intended to retire after the three-day tournament at London's 02 arena, which starts on Friday. Federer, whose most recent competitive match was a loss to Hubert Hurkacz in last year's Wimbledon quarter-finals, has been struggling with a knee problem. The Swiss great confirmed on Wednesday that the final match of his long and illustrious career will be in the doubles on Friday evening. Italian Matteo Berrettini, the first alternate for the tournament that pits Team Europe against Team World, will then take Federer's place over the weekend. The Swiss great does not yet know whether he will be able to link up with Nadal but said it would be the dream scenario. "Of course, no doubt," he told a packed press conference at the O2. "I mean, I think it could be quite a unique situation, you know, that if it were to happen." Federer said he and Nadal, 36, had always maintained a respect for each other even as they vied for the biggest trophies in the sport. "For us as well to go through a career that we both have had and to come out on the other side and being able to have a nice relationship I think is maybe a great message as well to not just tennis but sports and maybe even beyond," he said. "For that reason I think it would be great. I don't know if it's going to happen, but I think it could be obviously a special moment." Nadal, who holds the record for Grand Slam titles in men's tennis with 22, Novak Djokovic, who has won 21, and three-time major winner Andy Murray are all part of the six-man Team Europe, captained by Bjorn Borg. Their opponents, Team World, skippered by John McEnroe, include Taylor Fritz, Felix Auger-Aliassime and Diego Schwartzman. ALSO READ | I stopped believing I could come back: Roger Federer ahead of his final bow at Laver Cup 2022 - 'Bittersweet' - Federer said he was happy to step away from tennis at the age of 41 but admitted it was a "bittersweet decision". "You always want to play forever," he said. "I love being out on court, I love playing against the guys, I love travelling. "I never really felt like it was that hard for me to do, of winning, learn from losing, it was all perfect. I love my career from every angle." The Swiss said he was happy with his place in the debate over who is the greatest of all time in the men's game even though his tally of Grand Slam titles has been eclipsed by Nadal and Djokovic. "I'm definitely very proud and very happy where I sit," he said. One of my big moments of course was winning my 15th slam at Wimbledon, you know, when Pete (Sampras, who had won a then-record 14) was sitting there. Anything after that was a bonus." Federer said it was fitting that he would finish his career in London, where he has enjoyed so much success. "This city has been special to me, maybe the most special place with Wimbledon down the road and here at the O2. Having played here and qualified for so many years and won here as well (in the ATP Finals), I just thought it was very fitting." He said he said he had no intention of disappearing off the radar despite his looming retirement. "I just wanted to let the fans know I won't be a ghost, you know. It's funny, you know, I talked about Bjorn Borg just before. "I don't think he returned to Wimbledon for 25 years. That, in a way, hurts every tennis fan. Totally acceptable, his life, his reasons. "But I don't think I'll be that guy and I feel tennis has given me too much. I have been around the game for too long, have fallen in love with too many things."

Laver Cup 2022: Roger Federer eyes dream farewell alongside long-time rival Rafael Nadal

novak-djokovic

Novak Djokovic, News on Novak Djokovic, stories on Novak Djokovic, articles on Novak Djokovic, Novak Djokovic stories at Wion, Novak Djokovic news, Novak Djokovic latest news

novak djokovic