In Bosnia, a mountain is at the centre of the controversy. Some believe it has magical healing power that it was built by an ancient civilisation, claims that have been busted by experts.

Watch Bosnia’s ‘Healing’ Mountain

Tree-covered slopes and pointed summit in a mountain sound as an ordinary hillside. But the mountain just around the Bosnian town of Visoko has found visitors, rising yearly, including highly popular stars like Novak Djokovic, the world number one tennis player.&nbsp;

A major chunk of people believes that the hill is an ancient man-made pyramid with magical healing powers. Djokovic, known for his new-age spiritual interests, has completed two trips this year. His verdict? “Paradise on earth”.

The mountain is home to a controversial park, the work of Semir Osmanagic, a 60-year-old self-styled explorer, who discovered the area in 2005 – just outside of Sarajevo.&nbsp;

"I saw this hill covered with fir trees and vegetation, its slopes perfectly oriented towards the cardinal points," Osmanagic, wearing a leather jacket and Indiana Jones-style hat, told AFP on a recent weekend while leading a tour group through the site.&nbsp;

<img alt="Djokovic" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2cf775e0-d95e-46aa-afb1-123e71596aac" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_8VT3XV.jpg" />

"It was obvious to me that it was not a natural hill but the construction" of a "technologically superior civilisation", he said, insisting it is the "largest and oldest pyramid ever built".

However, archaeologists have disputed the theory while terming it as pseudo-science. They said the hill is a geological structure.

In 2006, European archaeologists wrote a letter to the Bosnian authorities as they denounced the “support” given to a "cruel hoax on an unsuspecting public" that "has no place in the world of genuine science".

Despite all this, Osmanagic, previously a US-based businessman, carried out "archaeological excavations" on the hill while bringing hundreds of volunteers from abroad.

<img alt="Djokovic" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cd16487e-bdd2-4a1c-a075-a4a5a38a28a8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_8VT3XT.jpg" />

Osmanagic bought a piece of surrounding land, which he says has a network of tunnels that emit special “energy force” and years later, open the park through his "Bosnian Pyramid of the Sun" foundation.

And now, the park is buzzing with visitors, including high-profile stars. The numbers are just increasing following the last two trips from Djokovic.

In July and October, Djokovic urged “all athletes” to take advantage of the healthy “oxygen” levels after taking a pilgrimage to the park.&nbsp;

"I know there are many doubts and dilemmas about the authenticity (of the place)," he told AFP in October.

But "in order to fully understand what is going on here... you have to come".

<img alt="Djokovic" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7232cde5-3443-48ea-bc76-11691addf2f6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_8VT3XW.jpg" />

As places are opening up after months of lockdown due to pandemic, weekend crowds are back at the pack.

"The beginning of the season was catastrophic, but since Djokovic has been here, it's been a joy," says Nermin Alihodzic, 47, who sells tourists colourful mini-pyramids and pieces of quartz.

Even though the government stopped backing the park over a decade ago, local authorities have helped finance the reconstruction of nearby facilities to encourage visitors.&nbsp;

A five euro ($5.94) entry fee for the whole park also includes access to the underground tunnel network which Osmanagic claims emit healing electromagnetic waves.&nbsp;

In his tour of the park, Osmanagic takes groups down to the chambers, urging them to hold their hands over a smooth rock and feel the "energy" rising.

Dzenana Halepovic, a 67-year-old visitor from Sarajevo, is a frequent visitor.&nbsp;

In the tunnels "I feel good, I breathe well, I feel light. I simply feel like I'm receiving energy there", she said.

<h2>- Immunity booster –</h2>

Enver Imamovic, a professor emeritus of archaeology, has dismissed the project as a pure scam.&nbsp;

The tunnels are likely "remnants of an ancient gold mine" while wedges of stones on the hillside, which believers consider to be the building blocks of the pyramid, are "nothing more than natural geological formations", he told AFP.&nbsp;

"Everything that is said about the pyramids is absolutely unacceptable".

<img alt="Djokovic" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3ec56a9f-ae8b-467a-9282-3583693271ad" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_8VT3XU.jpg" />

Osmanagic has also promoted the site as a place to “boost immunity” during the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

While he insists no cures are guaranteed, he cites other alleged miracles in which people have been healed of hypertension, diabetes or even cancer after a trip to the tunnels.

In a destitute country with a weak health system whose shortcomings have been exposed by the coronavirus crisis, many are drawn to the hope of alternative medicine.

Emina Kavaz, 53, says she is choosing the "pyramids" overtaking medicine for her asthma.

"I used to come every Saturday to go through the tunnels for between 40 and 60 minutes," she said.

(From AFP inputs) 
&nbsp;

Tree-covered slopes and pointed summit in a mountain sound as an ordinary hillside. But the mountain just around the Bosnian town of Visoko has found visitors, rising yearly, including highly popular stars like Novak Djokovic, the world number one tennis player.

Tree-covered slopes and pointed summit in a mountain sound as an ordinary hillside. But the mountain just around the Bosnian town of Visoko has found visitors, rising yearly, including highly popular stars like Novak Djokovic, the world number one tennis player. A major chunk of people believes that the hill is an ancient man-made pyramid with magical healing powers. Djokovic, known for his new-age spiritual interests, has completed two trips this year. His verdict? “Paradise on earth”. The mountain is home to a controversial park, the work of Semir Osmanagic, a 60-year-old self-styled explorer, who discovered the area in 2005 – just outside of Sarajevo. "I saw this hill covered with fir trees and vegetation, its slopes perfectly oriented towards the cardinal points," Osmanagic, wearing a leather jacket and Indiana Jones-style hat, told AFP on a recent weekend while leading a tour group through the site. "It was obvious to me that it was not a natural hill but the construction" of a "technologically superior civilisation", he said, insisting it is the "largest and oldest pyramid ever built". However, archaeologists have disputed the theory while terming it as pseudo-science. They said the hill is a geological structure. In 2006, European archaeologists wrote a letter to the Bosnian authorities as they denounced the “support” given to a "cruel hoax on an unsuspecting public" that "has no place in the world of genuine science". Despite all this, Osmanagic, previously a US-based businessman, carried out "archaeological excavations" on the hill while bringing hundreds of volunteers from abroad. Osmanagic bought a piece of surrounding land, which he says has a network of tunnels that emit special “energy force” and years later, open the park through his "Bosnian Pyramid of the Sun" foundation. And now, the park is buzzing with visitors, including high-profile stars. The numbers are just increasing following the last two trips from Djokovic. In July and October, Djokovic urged “all athletes” to take advantage of the healthy “oxygen” levels after taking a pilgrimage to the park. "I know there are many doubts and dilemmas about the authenticity (of the place)," he told AFP in October. But "in order to fully understand what is going on here... you have to come". As places are opening up after months of lockdown due to pandemic, weekend crowds are back at the pack. "The beginning of the season was catastrophic, but since Djokovic has been here, it's been a joy," says Nermin Alihodzic, 47, who sells tourists colourful mini-pyramids and pieces of quartz. Even though the government stopped backing the park over a decade ago, local authorities have helped finance the reconstruction of nearby facilities to encourage visitors. A five euro ($5.94) entry fee for the whole park also includes access to the underground tunnel network which Osmanagic claims emit healing electromagnetic waves. In his tour of the park, Osmanagic takes groups down to the chambers, urging them to hold their hands over a smooth rock and feel the "energy" rising. Dzenana Halepovic, a 67-year-old visitor from Sarajevo, is a frequent visitor. In the tunnels "I feel good, I breathe well, I feel light. I simply feel like I'm receiving energy there", she said. - Immunity booster – Enver Imamovic, a professor emeritus of archaeology, has dismissed the project as a pure scam. The tunnels are likely "remnants of an ancient gold mine" while wedges of stones on the hillside, which believers consider to be the building blocks of the pyramid, are "nothing more than natural geological formations", he told AFP. "Everything that is said about the pyramids is absolutely unacceptable". Osmanagic has also promoted the site as a place to “boost immunity” during the COVID-19 pandemic. While he insists no cures are guaranteed, he cites other alleged miracles in which people have been healed of hypertension, diabetes or even cancer after a trip to the tunnels. In a destitute country with a weak health system whose shortcomings have been exposed by the coronavirus crisis, many are drawn to the hope of alternative medicine. Emina Kavaz, 53, says she is choosing the "pyramids" overtaking medicine for her asthma. "I used to come every Saturday to go through the tunnels for between 40 and 60 minutes," she said. (From AFP inputs)

Scam or immunity booster? Djokovic's presence boost Bosnian 'energy pyramids'

Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley has moved to allay fears the season-opening tennis grand slam and its buildup tournaments could be hampered by strict biosecurity protocols to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-finals-daniil-medvedev-beats-rafael-nadal-in-a-thrilling-semi-finals-clash-344715" hreflang="en">ATP Finals: Daniil Medvedev beats Rafael Nadal in a thrilling semi-finals clash</a>

Tiley said on Sunday that Tennis Australia was still "doing everything we can to finalise the summer of tennis as soon as possible" after the Victorian state government said this week nothing had been confirmed around the tournaments.

"We are working closely with the Victorian Government on a plan that takes into account the needs of the players, fans, our partners and staff, and is a major benefit to the Victorian and Australian economy," Tiley added in a statement.

"We are continuing our urgent talks with local health authorities regarding quarantining and bio-security requirements and are confident we will have decisions soon."

Victoria has just emerged from a lengthy lockdown following a rampant re-emergence of the coronavirus, while Australia is effectively closed to international arrivals.

Tennis Australia (TA), however, said earlier this week they had planned for players and their entourages to start arriving Down Under in mid-December, spend two weeks in mandatory quarantine and then begin playing in early January.

They had also planned to move all of the buildup tournaments to Victoria, but the state government gave that notion short-shrift and said they had not even confirmed whether the Grand Slam could go ahead.

Tiley, however, remained optimistic on Sunday.

"Our intention is to deliver a summer in conditions that allow the players to prepare and perform at their best and the fans to enjoy their efforts - all in an environment that is safe for all concerned," he said.

"Tennis Australia is acutely aware of the need for certainty but also conscious of reaching a solution with the state Government."

The Australian Open is scheduled to begin at Melbourne Park on January&nbsp;18.

Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley has moved to allay fears the season-opening tennis grand slam and its buildup tournaments could be hampered by strict biosecurity protocols to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley has moved to allay fears the season-opening tennis grand slam and its buildup tournaments could be hampered by strict biosecurity protocols to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus. Also read: ATP Finals: Daniil Medvedev beats Rafael Nadal in a thrilling semi-finals clash Tiley said on Sunday that Tennis Australia was still "doing everything we can to finalise the summer of tennis as soon as possible" after the Victorian state government said this week nothing had been confirmed around the tournaments. "We are working closely with the Victorian Government on a plan that takes into account the needs of the players, fans, our partners and staff, and is a major benefit to the Victorian and Australian economy," Tiley added in a statement. "We are continuing our urgent talks with local health authorities regarding quarantining and bio-security requirements and are confident we will have decisions soon." Victoria has just emerged from a lengthy lockdown following a rampant re-emergence of the coronavirus, while Australia is effectively closed to international arrivals. Tennis Australia (TA), however, said earlier this week they had planned for players and their entourages to start arriving Down Under in mid-December, spend two weeks in mandatory quarantine and then begin playing in early January. They had also planned to move all of the buildup tournaments to Victoria, but the state government gave that notion short-shrift and said they had not even confirmed whether the Grand Slam could go ahead. Tiley, however, remained optimistic on Sunday. "Our intention is to deliver a summer in conditions that allow the players to prepare and perform at their best and the fans to enjoy their efforts - all in an environment that is safe for all concerned," he said. "Tennis Australia is acutely aware of the need for certainty but also conscious of reaching a solution with the state Government." The Australian Open is scheduled to begin at Melbourne Park on January 18.

Organisers optimistic for Australian Open despite coronavirus measures

Novak Djokovic said tennis authorities could adopt clearer policies on domestic abuse in light of allegations made against US&nbsp;Open runner-up Alexander Zverev by his ex-girlfriend.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-crowds-at-10-per-cent-capacity-would-be-a-boon-says-novak-djokovic-344548" hreflang="en">Australian Open crowds at 10 per cent capacity would be a boon, says Novak Djokovic</a>

The world number one offered his support to Zverev, who has repeatedly denied the allegations made by Olga Sharypova.

In an interview with Racquet Magazine, Sharypova said Zverev was emotionally and physically abusive to her. She also stated that she does not intend to press charges against the German.

"We don't know what happened truly. I mean, we are going to find out obviously," world number one Djokovic told reporters after his 6-3 7-6(4) win over Zverev at the O2 Arena on Friday.

"I have known Sascha for a very long time since he was very young. I always had a great relationship with him. Very nice guy. I have a lot of respect for him, his family.

"So I was sad to hear and to know he's going through something like this. I don't know what happened. Of course, I mean, obviously I'm not supporting any kind of violence. So we will have to wait and see."

Germany's Zverev has described the allegations as "unfounded and untrue" and without any legal investigation the men's ATP Tour would be unlikely to intervene.

The ATP said it condemned "any form of violence or abuse".

"In circumstances where allegations of violence or abuse are made against any member of the Tour, legal authorities investigate and due process, we then review the outcome and decide the appropriate course of action," the governing body of men's tennis said in a statement last week.

Djokovic was asked whether the ATP should adopt its own policy on domestic abuse, similar to those in American sports, regardless of legal proceedings.

"Yeah, I mean, why not? Probably it should be there in place. But I guess it wasn't developed and it wasn't there because we just did not have the cases like this," said Djokovic, who used to be president of the ATP's player council before he resigned earlier this year to form a breakaway association.

"I have not heard that we had maybe top players involved in such instances. So maybe that kind of case will in a way inspire ATP to do something like that."

World number seven Zverev said he had nothing to hide.

"The players know what’s going on," the 23-year-old told reporters after he was beaten by Djokovic in his final round robin match on Friday.

"What else can I say? I have said everything that I can. It's very unfortunate that these kind of false allegations can put such damage and put the attention away from the sport, but it's the world we live in right now unfortunately.

"There is nothing more that I can do."

Novak Djokovic said tennis authorities could adopt clearer policies on domestic abuse in light of allegations made against US Open runner-up Alexander Zverev by his ex-girlfriend.

Novak Djokovic said tennis authorities could adopt clearer policies on domestic abuse in light of allegations made against US Open runner-up Alexander Zverev by his ex-girlfriend. Also read: Australian Open crowds at 10 per cent capacity would be a boon, says Novak Djokovic The world number one offered his support to Zverev, who has repeatedly denied the allegations made by Olga Sharypova. In an interview with Racquet Magazine, Sharypova said Zverev was emotionally and physically abusive to her. She also stated that she does not intend to press charges against the German. "We don't know what happened truly. I mean, we are going to find out obviously," world number one Djokovic told reporters after his 6-3 7-6(4) win over Zverev at the O2 Arena on Friday. "I have known Sascha for a very long time since he was very young. I always had a great relationship with him. Very nice guy. I have a lot of respect for him, his family. "So I was sad to hear and to know he's going through something like this. I don't know what happened. Of course, I mean, obviously I'm not supporting any kind of violence. So we will have to wait and see." Germany's Zverev has described the allegations as "unfounded and untrue" and without any legal investigation the men's ATP Tour would be unlikely to intervene. The ATP said it condemned "any form of violence or abuse". "In circumstances where allegations of violence or abuse are made against any member of the Tour, legal authorities investigate and due process, we then review the outcome and decide the appropriate course of action," the governing body of men's tennis said in a statement last week. Djokovic was asked whether the ATP should adopt its own policy on domestic abuse, similar to those in American sports, regardless of legal proceedings. "Yeah, I mean, why not? Probably it should be there in place. But I guess it wasn't developed and it wasn't there because we just did not have the cases like this," said Djokovic, who used to be president of the ATP's player council before he resigned earlier this year to form a breakaway association. "I have not heard that we had maybe top players involved in such instances. So maybe that kind of case will in a way inspire ATP to do something like that." World number seven Zverev said he had nothing to hide. "The players know what’s going on," the 23-year-old told reporters after he was beaten by Djokovic in his final round robin match on Friday. "What else can I say? I have said everything that I can. It's very unfortunate that these kind of false allegations can put such damage and put the attention away from the sport, but it's the world we live in right now unfortunately. "There is nothing more that I can do."

Serb ace Novak Djokovic backs domestic abuse policy in tennis

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic is hopeful that fans will be allowed to enter the arenas for next year's Australia Open that is scheduled to be held in January. Spectators are still barred from most stadiums amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-reaches-atp-finals-semis-rafael-nadal-showdown-still-on-344422" hreflang="en">Novak Djokovic reaches ATP Finals semis, Rafael Nadal showdown still on</a>

Majority of tennis events, held after COVID-19 stoppage, have been played in empty stadiums, with a select few allowing fans in few numbers to attend with social distancing protocols in place to curb the spread of the virus.

"If Australia happens, I'm hearing that we are going to have at least 50 per cent of the capacity of the stadium. That's a lot, I think even 10 per cent would be huge for us at this stage," Djokovic said after moving into the semis of the ATP Finals in London.

"Just hearing the applause and hearing the fans and sensing their energy and their emotion and their kind of excitement for being there and cheering you on on the court, that's something that I think we're all missing."

Defending champion and world no. one Novak Djokovic won the Australian Open for a record eight times. He said he hoped the feeling of "walking into an empty stadium" would be temporary but was glad they were able to resume the season this year despite the pandemic.

"Strange is probably the right word to describe the season, but nevertheless I still feel like we played a lot of tournaments considering we had a six-months gap in the middle of the season," he added.

"We still managed to play three out of four Grand Slams and the ATP Finals and some big Masters 1000 events like Cincinnati and Rome."

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic is hopeful that fans will be allowed to enter the arenas for next year's Australia Open that is scheduled to be held in January. Spectators are still barred from most stadiums amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic is hopeful that fans will be allowed to enter the arenas for next year's Australia Open that is scheduled to be held in January. Spectators are still barred from most stadiums amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Also read: Novak Djokovic reaches ATP Finals semis, Rafael Nadal showdown still on Majority of tennis events, held after COVID-19 stoppage, have been played in empty stadiums, with a select few allowing fans in few numbers to attend with social distancing protocols in place to curb the spread of the virus. "If Australia happens, I'm hearing that we are going to have at least 50 per cent of the capacity of the stadium. That's a lot, I think even 10 per cent would be huge for us at this stage," Djokovic said after moving into the semis of the ATP Finals in London. "Just hearing the applause and hearing the fans and sensing their energy and their emotion and their kind of excitement for being there and cheering you on on the court, that's something that I think we're all missing." Defending champion and world no. one Novak Djokovic won the Australian Open for a record eight times. He said he hoped the feeling of "walking into an empty stadium" would be temporary but was glad they were able to resume the season this year despite the pandemic. "Strange is probably the right word to describe the season, but nevertheless I still feel like we played a lot of tournaments considering we had a six-months gap in the middle of the season," he added. "We still managed to play three out of four Grand Slams and the ATP Finals and some big Masters 1000 events like Cincinnati and Rome."

Australian Open crowds at 10 per cent capacity would be a boon, says  Novak Djokovic

London's farewell edition of the ATP Finals could still have its dream climax after world number one Novak Djokovic beat Alexander Zverev 6-3 7-6(4) to seal a last-four spot on Friday.

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Defeat by Russian Daniil Medvedev had left the five-time champion needing to beat Germany's Zverev to avoid a group stage exit and he obliged with a relatively comfortable win.

Djokovic will finish second in the Tokyo Group, named after the first edition of the season-ending tournament 50 years ago, and with Spanish world number two Rafa Nadal finishing second in the London Group, they have avoided a semi-final clash.

The 33-year-old Serb will face U.S. Open champion Dominic Thiem in Saturday's semi-final, when Nadal plays Medvedev.

Sunday's final will end the tournament's memorable 12-year stay in London before it re-locates to Turin.

Djokovic was pummelled 6-3 6-3 by an inspired Medvedev on Wednesday, but was much sharper against Zverev, another one of the new generation trying to barge the old guard off stage.

"In contrast to the match against Daniil I found the right shots at the right time," he said. "I have tremendous respect for Sascha, a great player and not easy to return 140mph first serves. It was anybody's game for most of the match."

Djokovic was soundly beaten by Zverev in the 2018 final, a match played out in an electrifying atmosphere in front of 18,000 fans. This time the arena was empty because of the COVID-19 lockdown, a surreal backdrop for a match with so much riding on it for both men.

Despite the flat feel, Djokovic was quickly into game-mode and when world number seven Zverev double-faulted to drop serve in his first service game he seized control.

Zverev dug in his heels in the second set but missed a chance for an early break before recovering from a couple of double faults to fend off a break point in the following game.

Djokovic looked edgy at times and twice had to hold serve to avoid being dragged into a third set.

But the 17-time Grand Slam champion raised the intensity level in the tiebreak, edging 5-3 ahead with a fizzing backhand pass. He brought up two match points with a hefty first serve before pressurising Zverev into an error to complete victory.

Djokovic is bidding to equal Roger Federer's record of six ATP Finals titles, while Nadal seeks a first.

Round-robin action concludes later on Friday with Medvedev looking to complete a sweep of the group by beating Argentine debutant Diego Schwartzman who cannot progress.

London's farewell edition of the ATP Finals could still have its dream climax after world number one Novak Djokovic beat Alexander Zverev 6-3 7-6(4) to seal a last-four spot on Friday.

London's farewell edition of the ATP Finals could still have its dream climax after world number one Novak Djokovic beat Alexander Zverev 6-3 7-6(4) to seal a last-four spot on Friday. Also read: No heading! Premier League managers want headers to be curbed if it leads to dementia Defeat by Russian Daniil Medvedev had left the five-time champion needing to beat Germany's Zverev to avoid a group stage exit and he obliged with a relatively comfortable win. Djokovic will finish second in the Tokyo Group, named after the first edition of the season-ending tournament 50 years ago, and with Spanish world number two Rafa Nadal finishing second in the London Group, they have avoided a semi-final clash. The 33-year-old Serb will face U.S. Open champion Dominic Thiem in Saturday's semi-final, when Nadal plays Medvedev. Sunday's final will end the tournament's memorable 12-year stay in London before it re-locates to Turin. Djokovic was pummelled 6-3 6-3 by an inspired Medvedev on Wednesday, but was much sharper against Zverev, another one of the new generation trying to barge the old guard off stage. "In contrast to the match against Daniil I found the right shots at the right time," he said. "I have tremendous respect for Sascha, a great player and not easy to return 140mph first serves. It was anybody's game for most of the match." Djokovic was soundly beaten by Zverev in the 2018 final, a match played out in an electrifying atmosphere in front of 18,000 fans. This time the arena was empty because of the COVID-19 lockdown, a surreal backdrop for a match with so much riding on it for both men. Despite the flat feel, Djokovic was quickly into game-mode and when world number seven Zverev double-faulted to drop serve in his first service game he seized control. Zverev dug in his heels in the second set but missed a chance for an early break before recovering from a couple of double faults to fend off a break point in the following game. Djokovic looked edgy at times and twice had to hold serve to avoid being dragged into a third set. But the 17-time Grand Slam champion raised the intensity level in the tiebreak, edging 5-3 ahead with a fizzing backhand pass. He brought up two match points with a hefty first serve before pressurising Zverev into an error to complete victory. Djokovic is bidding to equal Roger Federer's record of six ATP Finals titles, while Nadal seeks a first. Round-robin action concludes later on Friday with Medvedev looking to complete a sweep of the group by beating Argentine debutant Diego Schwartzman who cannot progress.

Novak Djokovic reaches ATP Finals semis, Rafael Nadal showdown still on

Daniil Medvedev shocked Novak Djokovic in straight sets to book a place in the last four at the ATP Finals on Wednesday as former champion Alexander Zverev got his campaign up and running.

The Russian fourth seed went toe to toe with the world number one, winning 6-3, 6-3 in an absorbing, energy-sapping contest at London's empty O2 Arena.

Earlier, German fifth seed Zverev beat Diego Schwartzman 6-3, 4-6, 6-3, bouncing back from defeat to Medvedev in his opening Group Tokyo 1970 match.

Top seed Djokovic is seeking to match the record of six-time winner Roger Federer, who is absent from the season-ending tournament with an injury.

But Medvedev, who won the Paris Masters last week, beat Djokovic at his own game, grinding him down in a near-flawless defensive display.

The giant Russian earned a clutch of early break points and eventually made one count in the seventh game, which lasted 11 gruelling minutes.

The 24-year-old held serve easily in the next game and seized the opening set 6-3 when a rattled Djokovic double-faulted.

An increasingly confident Medvedev broke the 17-time Grand Slam champion again at the start of the second set to win his sixth game in a row in the round-robin match.

Djokovic stopped the rot on his own serve but was able to force just one break point, which he could not convert.

The victory takes Medvedev through to the semi-finals but five-time winner Djokovic still has a chance to progress in a shootout with Zverev on Friday.

"Always I like to pay Novak, first of all because he's one of the greatest champions in the history of our sport and when I was eight years old I was already watching him on TV winning Grand Slams," said Medvedev.

"He was still young -- so it was always a dream come true to play against him."

"I was serving good and playing safe enough in the most important moments and that's why I got the win," added the Russian, who lost all three of his matches on his debut last year.

<h2>- Zverev win -</h2>

Zverev, the 2018 champion, looked out of sorts in his straight-sets defeat against Medvedev on Monday and again struggled to find early rhythm in the early match in London.

The big-serving German was broken by Schwartzman in the third game but turned the tables with two breaks of his own to take the set.

Zverev who stands 28 centimetres (11 inches) taller than Schwartzman, appeared to be in control in the second set but stumbled twice on serve as his 28-year-old opponent levelled the match.

The momentum appeared to be with the Argentine but the match changed direction again in the fifth game of the decider when Zverev broke with a fine backhand volley, repeating the feat to seal the win.

"I'm excited for Friday," said Zverev. "Friday's going to be the most difficult match-up that you can have here, against Novak."

The German, who has won two titles in the coronavirus-truncated 2020 season, beat Djokovic in the final in London two years ago but is yet to win a Grand Slam.

Dominic Thiem is in charge of Group London 2020 after beating second seed Rafael Nadal on Tuesday to make it two wins out of two.

Daniil Medvedev shocked Novak Djokovic in straight sets to book a place in the last four at the ATP Finals on Wednesday as former champion Alexander Zverev got his campaign up and running.

Daniil Medvedev shocked Novak Djokovic in straight sets to book a place in the last four at the ATP Finals on Wednesday as former champion Alexander Zverev got his campaign up and running. The Russian fourth seed went toe to toe with the world number one, winning 6-3, 6-3 in an absorbing, energy-sapping contest at London's empty O2 Arena. Earlier, German fifth seed Zverev beat Diego Schwartzman 6-3, 4-6, 6-3, bouncing back from defeat to Medvedev in his opening Group Tokyo 1970 match. Top seed Djokovic is seeking to match the record of six-time winner Roger Federer, who is absent from the season-ending tournament with an injury. But Medvedev, who won the Paris Masters last week, beat Djokovic at his own game, grinding him down in a near-flawless defensive display. The giant Russian earned a clutch of early break points and eventually made one count in the seventh game, which lasted 11 gruelling minutes. The 24-year-old held serve easily in the next game and seized the opening set 6-3 when a rattled Djokovic double-faulted. An increasingly confident Medvedev broke the 17-time Grand Slam champion again at the start of the second set to win his sixth game in a row in the round-robin match. Djokovic stopped the rot on his own serve but was able to force just one break point, which he could not convert. The victory takes Medvedev through to the semi-finals but five-time winner Djokovic still has a chance to progress in a shootout with Zverev on Friday. "Always I like to pay Novak, first of all because he's one of the greatest champions in the history of our sport and when I was eight years old I was already watching him on TV winning Grand Slams," said Medvedev. "He was still young -- so it was always a dream come true to play against him." "I was serving good and playing safe enough in the most important moments and that's why I got the win," added the Russian, who lost all three of his matches on his debut last year. - Zverev win - Zverev, the 2018 champion, looked out of sorts in his straight-sets defeat against Medvedev on Monday and again struggled to find early rhythm in the early match in London. The big-serving German was broken by Schwartzman in the third game but turned the tables with two breaks of his own to take the set. Zverev who stands 28 centimetres (11 inches) taller than Schwartzman, appeared to be in control in the second set but stumbled twice on serve as his 28-year-old opponent levelled the match. The momentum appeared to be with the Argentine but the match changed direction again in the fifth game of the decider when Zverev broke with a fine backhand volley, repeating the feat to seal the win. "I'm excited for Friday," said Zverev. "Friday's going to be the most difficult match-up that you can have here, against Novak." The German, who has won two titles in the coronavirus-truncated 2020 season, beat Djokovic in the final in London two years ago but is yet to win a Grand Slam. Dominic Thiem is in charge of Group London 2020 after beating second seed Rafael Nadal on Tuesday to make it two wins out of two.

Medvedev destroys Djokovic at ATP Finals as Zverev bounces back

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic revealed his feelings after finishing 2020 as number one for a sixth time despite a pandemic-hit season. According to Novak, it has been a "strange feeling".&nbsp;

The Serbian has had a good 2020 season. He won a record-extending eighth Australian Open as well as a record 36th Masters title in Rome, winning four singles titles in all en route to the year-ending number one ranking.

Novak Djokovic held a 39-3 record this season despite plenty cancellations and suspensions between March and August due to the coronavirus outbreak.&nbsp;

"Obviously, I'm super proud of it, but I have mixed emotions because of what's going on in the world," Djokovic told the ATP Tour website.

"I can't be ignorant to that, although I have achieved one of the biggest goals in sport. I feel for many people in the world going through hardship and my heart goes out to them."

Djokovic nears Roger Federer's record of being the player with the most number of weeks as world number one in men's tennis. He even equalled his childhood hero Pete Sampras' record who ended the year as number one six times from 1993 to 1998.

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic revealed his feelings after finishing 2020 as number one for a sixth time despite a pandemic-hit season. According to Novak, it has been a "strange feeling".

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic revealed his feelings after finishing 2020 as number one for a sixth time despite a pandemic-hit season. According to Novak, it has been a "strange feeling". The Serbian has had a good 2020 season. He won a record-extending eighth Australian Open as well as a record 36th Masters title in Rome, winning four singles titles in all en route to the year-ending number one ranking. Novak Djokovic held a 39-3 record this season despite plenty cancellations and suspensions between March and August due to the coronavirus outbreak. "Obviously, I'm super proud of it, but I have mixed emotions because of what's going on in the world," Djokovic told the ATP Tour website. "I can't be ignorant to that, although I have achieved one of the biggest goals in sport. I feel for many people in the world going through hardship and my heart goes out to them." Djokovic nears Roger Federer's record of being the player with the most number of weeks as world number one in men's tennis. He even equalled his childhood hero Pete Sampras' record who ended the year as number one six times from 1993 to 1998.

'Strange feeling': Novak Djokovic on ending 2020 season as world no. 1

From having intriguing matches with players on the tennis court to indulging in hilarious interactions, world number one Novak Djokovic is one of most expressive athletes in the world of sport. Djokovic recently tried imitating Cristiano Ronaldo’s iconic ‘Siu’ celebration as CR7 responded to the Serbian ace in what has been a treat for the fans on social media.&nbsp;

Djokovic took to social media platform Twitter recently to post a video in which he was seen replicating Ronaldo’s ‘Siu’ celebration.

While Djokovic tagged Ronaldo while asking how did he fare, the Portuguese stalwart replied as he gave his verdict on the video.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nadal-cruises-at-atp-finals-as-thiem-takes-revenge-against-tsitsipas-343415" hreflang="en">Nadal cruises at ATP Finals as Thiem takes revenge against Tsitsipas</a>

The viral video was initially shared by the official Twitter handle of ATP Tour amid the ongoing ATP Tour Finals at the O2 Arena in London.&nbsp;

Djokovic asked: "@Cristiano how did I do?”. Ronaldo, in a goofy reply, reverted “Not bad bro”.&nbsp;

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/Cristiano?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Cristiano</a> how did I do? 😂 <a href="https://t.co/cF1CQ0noPW">https://t.co/cF1CQ0noPW</a>
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) <a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole/status/1327332291417415685?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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not bad bro🤔😅
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cristiano/status/1327556363434725376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Djokovic is now eyeing a record-equalling sixth ATP Finals title at O2 arena this season after not winning the tournament since 2015.

He recently equalised Pete Sampras’ record of ending six consecutive seasons as number one.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lewis-hamilton-the-world-champion-some-find-hard-to-like-343414" hreflang="en">Lewis Hamilton: The world champion some find hard to like</a>

"Coming into the tournament and knowing that I have clinched the year-end number one releases some of the pressure, definitely. But at the same time it doesn't change what I hope to achieve in this tournament and why I'm here," Djokovic was quoted as saying.

Meanwhile, Ronaldo has been on fire for Juventus and Portugal since returning negative for COVID-19. The former Real Madrid forward was forced into self-isolation after testing positive for the dreaded virus and spent around two weeks recovering from it.

However, since then he has scored goals in almost every match he has played and is currently on a top spell in front of the goal.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

From having intriguing matches with players on the tennis court to indulging in hilarious interactions, world number one Novak Djokovic is one of most expressive athletes in the world of sport.

From having intriguing matches with players on the tennis court to indulging in hilarious interactions, world number one Novak Djokovic is one of most expressive athletes in the world of sport. Djokovic recently tried imitating Cristiano Ronaldo’s iconic ‘Siu’ celebration as CR7 responded to the Serbian ace in what has been a treat for the fans on social media. Djokovic took to social media platform Twitter recently to post a video in which he was seen replicating Ronaldo’s ‘Siu’ celebration. While Djokovic tagged Ronaldo while asking how did he fare, the Portuguese stalwart replied as he gave his verdict on the video. ALSO READ: Nadal cruises at ATP Finals as Thiem takes revenge against Tsitsipas The viral video was initially shared by the official Twitter handle of ATP Tour amid the ongoing ATP Tour Finals at the O2 Arena in London. Djokovic asked: "@Cristiano how did I do?”. Ronaldo, in a goofy reply, reverted “Not bad bro”. .@Cristiano how did I do? 😂 https://t.co/cF1CQ0noPW — Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) November 13, 2020 × not bad bro🤔😅 — Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) November 14, 2020 × Djokovic is now eyeing a record-equalling sixth ATP Finals title at O2 arena this season after not winning the tournament since 2015. He recently equalised Pete Sampras’ record of ending six consecutive seasons as number one. ALSO READ: Lewis Hamilton: The world champion some find hard to like "Coming into the tournament and knowing that I have clinched the year-end number one releases some of the pressure, definitely. But at the same time it doesn't change what I hope to achieve in this tournament and why I'm here," Djokovic was quoted as saying. Meanwhile, Ronaldo has been on fire for Juventus and Portugal since returning negative for COVID-19. The former Real Madrid forward was forced into self-isolation after testing positive for the dreaded virus and spent around two weeks recovering from it. However, since then he has scored goals in almost every match he has played and is currently on a top spell in front of the goal.

Cristiano Ronaldo reverts after Novak Djokovic replicates iconic 'Siu' celebration

World no. 1 Novak Djokovic is looking forward to winning the ATP Finals at London's O2 Arena for a record-equalling sixth time.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-recovered-dominic-thiem-starts-preparations-for-atp-finals-341919" hreflang="en">Tennis: Recovered Dominic Thiem starts preparations for ATP Finals</a>

The Serbian has had a successful 2020 season as he won Australian Open. He won 39 matches against just three losses this season. Novak also clinched his record-tying sixth year-end No. 1 finish in the ATP Rankings.

As long as the Nitto ATP Finals is concerned, Novak looks relaxed as he has won the event five times before. The win is one fewer than Roger Federer.&nbsp;

"Coming into the tournament knowing I already clinched the year-end No. 1 release some of the pressure definitely, but at the same time it doesn’t change what I hope to achieve in this tournament and why I’m here," Djokovic said at the tournament’s media day Friday. "I really want to win every single match that I get to play and try to get my hands on the trophy and I want this trophy as much as anyone here…

"I’m really hoping that I can end the season in the best possible way and the success that I had previously here in the past 10 years helps me feel more comfortable and confident about myself on the court."

Novak Djokovic will begin his campaign against Diego Schwartzman. "He never played on this court but that probably is kind of releasing him from any pressure that he has to do well," said Djokovic, 33. "Diego is in great form this year, it’s been the best season of his life, he deserves to be part of this tournament. I have lots of respect for him, he’s a fierce competitor [and] one of the quickest players on the Tour."

World no. 1 Novak Djokovic is looking forward to winning the ATP Finals at London's O2 Arena for a record-equalling sixth time. Also read: Tennis: Recovered Dominic Thiem starts preparations for ATP Finals The Serbian has had a successful 2020 season as he won Australian Open.

World no. 1 Novak Djokovic is looking forward to winning the ATP Finals at London's O2 Arena for a record-equalling sixth time. Also read: Tennis: Recovered Dominic Thiem starts preparations for ATP Finals The Serbian has had a successful 2020 season as he won Australian Open. He won 39 matches against just three losses this season. Novak also clinched his record-tying sixth year-end No. 1 finish in the ATP Rankings. As long as the Nitto ATP Finals is concerned, Novak looks relaxed as he has won the event five times before. The win is one fewer than Roger Federer. "Coming into the tournament knowing I already clinched the year-end No. 1 release some of the pressure definitely, but at the same time it doesn’t change what I hope to achieve in this tournament and why I’m here," Djokovic said at the tournament’s media day Friday. "I really want to win every single match that I get to play and try to get my hands on the trophy and I want this trophy as much as anyone here… "I’m really hoping that I can end the season in the best possible way and the success that I had previously here in the past 10 years helps me feel more comfortable and confident about myself on the court." Novak Djokovic will begin his campaign against Diego Schwartzman. "He never played on this court but that probably is kind of releasing him from any pressure that he has to do well," said Djokovic, 33. "Diego is in great form this year, it’s been the best season of his life, he deserves to be part of this tournament. I have lots of respect for him, he’s a fierce competitor [and] one of the quickest players on the Tour."

ATP FINALS: Novak Djokovic eyes record-equaling win to end year on high

Novak Djokovic retained his world no. 1 title despite a shocking defeat to Lorenzo Sonego in Vienna last week after the ATP announced its latest rankings on Monday.

Novak Djokovic retained his world no. 1 title despite a shocking defeat to Lorenzo Sonego in Vienna last week after the ATP announced its latest rankings on Monday. Djokovic nears Roger Federer's record of being the player with the most number of weeks as world number one in men's tennis. The Serbian ace has spent 293 weeks as No.1 as compared to Swiss' record of 310. Djokovic returned to the field to play in Austria after suffering a crushing defeat by the hand of Rafael Nadal. The 17-time Grand Slam winner is virtually guaranteed to equal Pete Sampras's record of securing a year-ending top ranking for the sixth time with second-placed Rafael Nadal unlikely to play at Sofia this month. Sonegro witnessed a rise in ranks after stunning Djokovic last week. He is at a career-best of 32nd. ATP rankings as of November 2: 1. Novak Djokovic (SRB) 11830 pts 2. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 9850 3. Dominic Thiem (AUT) 9125 4. Roger Federer (SUI) 6630 5. Daniil Medvedev (RUS) 5980 (+1) 6. Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE) 5925 (-1) 7. Alexander Zverev (GER) 5015 8. Andrey Rublev (RUS) 3839 9. Diego Schwartzman (ARG) 3285 10. Matteo Berrettini (ITA) 3075 11. Gael Monfils (FRA) 2860 12. Denis Shapovalov (CAN) 2830 13. Roberto Bautista (ESP) 2710 14. David Goffin (BEL) 2555 15. Pablo Carreno (ESP) 2400 16. Fabio Fognini (ITA) 2400 17. Milos Raonic (CAN) 2265 18. Grigor Dimitrov (BUL) 2260 (+2) 19. Karen Khachanov (RUS) 2245 (-1) 20. Stan Wawrinka (SUI) 2230 (-1)

Novak Djokovic remains World no. 1 despite Vienna shocker as ATP announces latest rankings

Novak Djokovic shrugged off his heaviest defeat on Friday by insisting he had achieved his goal of wrapping up the year-end world number one spot for a record-equalling sixth time.

Djokovic was stunned 6-2, 6-1 by Italian lucky loser Lorenzo Sonego in the quarter-finals of the Vienna ATP tournament.

But having won two rounds in the Austrian capital, 33-year-old Djokovic is virtually guaranteed equalling Pete Sampras's record of securing the year-ending top ranking for the sixth time.

"Clinching the year-end number one had an effect on me," Djokovic told a news conference.

"I have done what I came here for, securing the number one. And I'm completely fine with today's result.

"I'm healthy and looking forward to a strong finish in London (the season-ending ATP Finals)".

Italian Sonego, ranked 42 and who had intially lost in qualifying last weekend, is the first lucky loser ever to beat Djokovic.

The only other time Djokovic had won just three games was at the 2005 Australian Open at the hands of Marat Safin in a best-of-five set encounter.

"He just blew me off the court, that's all," Djokovic told atptour.com.&nbsp;

"He was better in every segment of the game. It was a pretty bad match from my side, but amazing from his side.&nbsp;

"He definitely deserved this result," added the Serb star who was playing his first tournament since his Roland Garros final defeat to Rafal Nadal three weeks ago.

<h2>- 'Unbelievable, amazing' -</h2>

Djokovic can only be denied the end of year world number one ranking if Nadal takes an unlikely wild card into the Sofia tournament next month.

The Spaniard has already said, however, that travelling to Bulgaria after next week's Paris Masters and before London is not on his agenda.

Sonego fired 26 winners past Djokovic who lost for only the third time in 2020 against 39 victories

Djokovic, a 17-time major champion, managed just seven winners against 25 unforced errors.

"For sure it's the best victory of my life. Novak is the best in the world. Today I played so, so good," Sonego said.

"It's unbelievable. It's amazing. I played the best match in my life. I'm so happy for this."

Sonego goes on to face Britain's Dan Evans, who defeated Grigor Dimitrov of Bulgaria 7-6 (7/3), 4-6, 6-3, for a place in Sunday's final.

Second seed and defending champion Dominic Thiem also lost Friday, going down 7-6 (7/5), 6-2 to Russian world number eight Andrey Rublev.

Rublev hit 30 winners past the US Open champion and goes on to face South Africa's Kevin Anderson for a place in the final.

"I came here with the mood that I have nothing to lose," said Rublev who is chasing a fifth title of the year.

"I had already a really great season. I came here with zero expectations, just wanting to do my best. To try to fight every match. At the end, I am here in the semi-finals."

Anderson made the semi-finals by accounting for Russian fourth seed Daniil Medvedev 6-4, 7-6 (7/5).

It was 2018 champion Anderson's first top 10 win in two years.

Novak Djokovic shrugged off his heaviest defeat on Friday by insisting he had achieved his goal of wrapping up the year-end world number one spot for a record-equalling sixth time.

Novak Djokovic shrugged off his heaviest defeat on Friday by insisting he had achieved his goal of wrapping up the year-end world number one spot for a record-equalling sixth time. Djokovic was stunned 6-2, 6-1 by Italian lucky loser Lorenzo Sonego in the quarter-finals of the Vienna ATP tournament. But having won two rounds in the Austrian capital, 33-year-old Djokovic is virtually guaranteed equalling Pete Sampras's record of securing the year-ending top ranking for the sixth time. "Clinching the year-end number one had an effect on me," Djokovic told a news conference. "I have done what I came here for, securing the number one. And I'm completely fine with today's result. "I'm healthy and looking forward to a strong finish in London (the season-ending ATP Finals)". Italian Sonego, ranked 42 and who had intially lost in qualifying last weekend, is the first lucky loser ever to beat Djokovic. The only other time Djokovic had won just three games was at the 2005 Australian Open at the hands of Marat Safin in a best-of-five set encounter. "He just blew me off the court, that's all," Djokovic told atptour.com. "He was better in every segment of the game. It was a pretty bad match from my side, but amazing from his side. "He definitely deserved this result," added the Serb star who was playing his first tournament since his Roland Garros final defeat to Rafal Nadal three weeks ago. - 'Unbelievable, amazing' - Djokovic can only be denied the end of year world number one ranking if Nadal takes an unlikely wild card into the Sofia tournament next month. The Spaniard has already said, however, that travelling to Bulgaria after next week's Paris Masters and before London is not on his agenda. Sonego fired 26 winners past Djokovic who lost for only the third time in 2020 against 39 victories Djokovic, a 17-time major champion, managed just seven winners against 25 unforced errors. "For sure it's the best victory of my life. Novak is the best in the world. Today I played so, so good," Sonego said. "It's unbelievable. It's amazing. I played the best match in my life. I'm so happy for this." Sonego goes on to face Britain's Dan Evans, who defeated Grigor Dimitrov of Bulgaria 7-6 (7/3), 4-6, 6-3, for a place in Sunday's final. Second seed and defending champion Dominic Thiem also lost Friday, going down 7-6 (7/5), 6-2 to Russian world number eight Andrey Rublev. Rublev hit 30 winners past the US Open champion and goes on to face South Africa's Kevin Anderson for a place in the final. "I came here with the mood that I have nothing to lose," said Rublev who is chasing a fifth title of the year. "I had already a really great season. I came here with zero expectations, just wanting to do my best. To try to fight every match. At the end, I am here in the semi-finals." Anderson made the semi-finals by accounting for Russian fourth seed Daniil Medvedev 6-4, 7-6 (7/5). It was 2018 champion Anderson's first top 10 win in two years.

'I did what I came for': Djokovic suffers heaviest loss but securing top spot priority

Novak Djokovic on Tuesday defeated Filip Krajinovic in the first round in Vienna and the Serbian ace edged closer to Pete Sampras’ all-time record of ending the year as world number one on six occasions. Djokovic won against Krajinovic 7-4 (8/6), 6-3 and requires just one win in Austria against Borna Coric to make sure he equals the achievement of his childhood idol.

The world number one has been a top-ranked player at the end of a season five times thus far: in 2011, 2012, 2014, 2015 and 2018. 
Djokovic currently shares the record with rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. However, Sampras achieved the illustrious feat six years in succession between 1993 and 1998.

Djokovic, who was playing in Vienna for the first time since 2007, dropped serve twice in a tricky opening set. However, he cruised past Krajinovic without breaking much sweat following the tie-break.

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"First set, I think he was the better player. He was serving for the first set and I was lucky. He missed a smash at 6/6 in the tie-break," said Djokovic.&nbsp;

"A few points here and there can change the momentum of the match. In the second set, I stepped it up, I played better and I am just pleased with the way I finished the match."

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This is Djokovic’s first tournament since his humiliating defeat to Rafael Nadal in Rolad Garros a couple of weeks ago.

Djokovic is also eyeing Federer’s all-time best record of spending 310 weeks spent on the top of the rankings. Djokovic on Monday started his 292nd week in total as world number one.&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic on Tuesday defeated Filip Krajinovic in the first round in Vienna and the Serbian ace edged closer to Pete Sampras’ all-time record of ending the year as world number one on six occasions.

Novak Djokovic on Tuesday defeated Filip Krajinovic in the first round in Vienna and the Serbian ace edged closer to Pete Sampras’ all-time record of ending the year as world number one on six occasions. Djokovic won against Krajinovic 7-4 (8/6), 6-3 and requires just one win in Austria against Borna Coric to make sure he equals the achievement of his childhood idol. The world number one has been a top-ranked player at the end of a season five times thus far: in 2011, 2012, 2014, 2015 and 2018. Djokovic currently shares the record with rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. However, Sampras achieved the illustrious feat six years in succession between 1993 and 1998. Djokovic, who was playing in Vienna for the first time since 2007, dropped serve twice in a tricky opening set. However, he cruised past Krajinovic without breaking much sweat following the tie-break. ALSO READ: 'Careless' Coleman set to miss Olympics after being handed two-year ban "First set, I think he was the better player. He was serving for the first set and I was lucky. He missed a smash at 6/6 in the tie-break," said Djokovic. "A few points here and there can change the momentum of the match. In the second set, I stepped it up, I played better and I am just pleased with the way I finished the match." ALSO READ: Ronaldo still positive for coronavirus before Barcelona game This is Djokovic’s first tournament since his humiliating defeat to Rafael Nadal in Rolad Garros a couple of weeks ago. Djokovic is also eyeing Federer’s all-time best record of spending 310 weeks spent on the top of the rankings. Djokovic on Monday started his 292nd week in total as world number one.

Novak Djokovic eyeing Pete Sampras' all-time record

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic has had a splendid 2020 season. However, his season witnessed a decline as he got disqualified in the US Open and lost in the finals of Roland Garros. The world number one is a front runner in his bid to become the world’s most trophy-laden player.

Djokovic has 17 grand slam titles while Nadal and Federer are on 20 each after the Spaniard clinched a record 13th French Open title.

“There is a lingering regret that I didn’t win either the US Open or the Roland Garros this year,” a bearded Djokovic told reporters in drenching sun at his tennis academy in downtown Belgrade by the Danube river.

“I was in outstanding form at both events but having reached the French Open final, I was beaten by a player who was much better on the day.

“I was below par and that’s it. As far as the US Open is concerned, I got myself into an unfortunate situation and was disqualified, but I won several other big tournaments.

“The US Open disqualification notwithstanding, I have only lost one match all season and I’ve played some of the best tennis of my life.”

Djokovic dismissed suggestions he was under intense pressure to overhaul Nadal and Federer in their three-way race to become the greatest male player of all time.

“Pressure has been a part of my life for a long time and I’ve learned how to deal with it,” he said.

“It comes with the territory if you are a top-level athlete and it can also galvanise you. You take physical and mental knocks along the way but it’s all part of the learning curve.

“If I retired now I’d be happy with everything I have achieved but I still enjoy competing and every tournament I enter gives me so much motivation and joy.”

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic has had a splendid 2020 season. However, his season witnessed a decline as he got disqualified in the US Open and lost in the finals of Roland Garros.

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic has had a splendid 2020 season. However, his season witnessed a decline as he got disqualified in the US Open and lost in the finals of Roland Garros. The world number one is a front runner in his bid to become the world’s most trophy-laden player. Djokovic has 17 grand slam titles while Nadal and Federer are on 20 each after the Spaniard clinched a record 13th French Open title. “There is a lingering regret that I didn’t win either the US Open or the Roland Garros this year,” a bearded Djokovic told reporters in drenching sun at his tennis academy in downtown Belgrade by the Danube river. “I was in outstanding form at both events but having reached the French Open final, I was beaten by a player who was much better on the day. “I was below par and that’s it. As far as the US Open is concerned, I got myself into an unfortunate situation and was disqualified, but I won several other big tournaments. “The US Open disqualification notwithstanding, I have only lost one match all season and I’ve played some of the best tennis of my life.” Djokovic dismissed suggestions he was under intense pressure to overhaul Nadal and Federer in their three-way race to become the greatest male player of all time. “Pressure has been a part of my life for a long time and I’ve learned how to deal with it,” he said. “It comes with the territory if you are a top-level athlete and it can also galvanise you. You take physical and mental knocks along the way but it’s all part of the learning curve. “If I retired now I’d be happy with everything I have achieved but I still enjoy competing and every tournament I enter gives me so much motivation and joy.”

'There is a lingering regret': Novak Djokovic on US Open and Roland Garros

Novak Djokovic said on Wednesday that he will not defend his Paris Masters title because he cannot gain any ranking points if he plays.&nbsp;

The world number one told Serbian daily Sportski Zurnal that due to the revised ranking system created amid the coronavirus pandemic he could not win any additional ranking points at next month's ATP event in the French capital.

Djokovic said his main priority is to remain first in the rankings until at least March 8 next year to break Roger Federer's record for most weeks in the ATP's top spot.

Rankings are calculated by the players' best results between March 2019 and December this year.&nbsp;

Djokovic, collected 1,000 points by wining in Paris last year and so cannot add to his total by playing there.

"I won't play the Masters in Paris as I can't win new points there. But I will go to Vienna and London", Djokovic said.

"I didn't play in Vienna last year and I can win up to 500 points there. There are lot of points to be won in London as well."

Djokovic, 33, who lost the French Open final to Rafael Nadal earlier this month is training in Belgrade.

He said he has to keep an eye on Nadal and Dominic Thiem, the two men closest to him in the rankings.

"It depends also on Nadal and Thiem's score until the end of this year, and also on following Australian Open, but I am in a good position," Djokovic said.

Djokovic is almost 2,000 points ahead of second best Nadal, but the Spaniard demolished the 17-time Grand Slam winner aside 6-0, 6-2, 7-5 in the Roland Garros final.

Novak Djokovic said on Wednesday that he will not defend his Paris Masters title because he cannot gain any ranking points if he plays. The world number one told Serbian daily Sportski Zurnal that due to the revised ranking system created amid the coronavirus pandemic he could not win any additional ranking points at next month's ATP event in the French capital.

Novak Djokovic said on Wednesday that he will not defend his Paris Masters title because he cannot gain any ranking points if he plays. The world number one told Serbian daily Sportski Zurnal that due to the revised ranking system created amid the coronavirus pandemic he could not win any additional ranking points at next month's ATP event in the French capital. Djokovic said his main priority is to remain first in the rankings until at least March 8 next year to break Roger Federer's record for most weeks in the ATP's top spot. Rankings are calculated by the players' best results between March 2019 and December this year. Djokovic, collected 1,000 points by wining in Paris last year and so cannot add to his total by playing there. "I won't play the Masters in Paris as I can't win new points there. But I will go to Vienna and London", Djokovic said. "I didn't play in Vienna last year and I can win up to 500 points there. There are lot of points to be won in London as well." Djokovic, 33, who lost the French Open final to Rafael Nadal earlier this month is training in Belgrade. He said he has to keep an eye on Nadal and Dominic Thiem, the two men closest to him in the rankings. "It depends also on Nadal and Thiem's score until the end of this year, and also on following Australian Open, but I am in a good position," Djokovic said. Djokovic is almost 2,000 points ahead of second best Nadal, but the Spaniard demolished the 17-time Grand Slam winner aside 6-0, 6-2, 7-5 in the Roland Garros final.

Djokovic pulls out of Paris Masters, eyes Vienna and London

Novak Djokovic visited a Bosnian 'pyramid park' on Tuesday to benefit from the site's purported healing powers and miracle cures, 48 hours after his demolition by Rafael Nadal in the French Open final.

The Serbian world number one is known for unorthodox and sometimes controversial new-age spiritual views and practices.

And two days after being swept aside 6-0, 6-2, 7-5 at Roland Garros he made a trip to Visko's Valley of the Pyramids and its 25,000-year-old tunnels beneath whose "energy" is claimed to bring about miracle cures.

Although some hills in the region resemble a pyramid shape, the European Association of Archaeologists debunked the claims as pseudo-science over a decade ago.&nbsp;

"I would invite all athletes to come here to spend time in the tunnels, which are very beneficial for the increase of oxygen in the lungs," he told public TV station FTV.

"It has a direct effect on regeneration, on recovery, which is very important for athletes," he said.

According to local media, visitors to the pyramid park have increased since Djokovic's earlier visit in July after he and his wife contracted Covid-19 following a tennis tournament Djokovic organised in the Balkans.&nbsp;

"If there is paradise on earth, then it is here," the Serbian player said at the time.

Novak Djokovic visited a Bosnian 'pyramid park' on Tuesday to benefit from the site's purported healing powers and miracle cures, 48 hours after his demolition by Rafael Nadal in the French Open final.

Novak Djokovic visited a Bosnian 'pyramid park' on Tuesday to benefit from the site's purported healing powers and miracle cures, 48 hours after his demolition by Rafael Nadal in the French Open final. The Serbian world number one is known for unorthodox and sometimes controversial new-age spiritual views and practices. And two days after being swept aside 6-0, 6-2, 7-5 at Roland Garros he made a trip to Visko's Valley of the Pyramids and its 25,000-year-old tunnels beneath whose "energy" is claimed to bring about miracle cures. Although some hills in the region resemble a pyramid shape, the European Association of Archaeologists debunked the claims as pseudo-science over a decade ago. "I would invite all athletes to come here to spend time in the tunnels, which are very beneficial for the increase of oxygen in the lungs," he told public TV station FTV. "It has a direct effect on regeneration, on recovery, which is very important for athletes," he said. According to local media, visitors to the pyramid park have increased since Djokovic's earlier visit in July after he and his wife contracted Covid-19 following a tennis tournament Djokovic organised in the Balkans. "If there is paradise on earth, then it is here," the Serbian player said at the time.

After Nadal loss, Djokovic seeks solace at Bosnia's 'energy pyramids'

Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal, with 36 Grand Slam titles between them, are both just two wins away from creating more tennis history at Roland Garros but standing in the way in Friday's semi-finals are Stefanos Tsitsipas and Diego Schwartzman.

Tsitsipas is the first Greek player to reach the last four in Paris while the diminutive Argentine has put sport in perspective this week with his moving story of how his great-grandfather survived the Holocaust.

&nbsp;

<h2>Novak Djokovic (SRB x1) v Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE x5)</h2>

Head-to-head: Djokovic leads 3-2

-- Djokovic is chasing a second Roland Garros title and 18th Grand Slam to become the first man in half a century to win all four majors twice. It's such a rare achievement that only Don Budge and Rod Laver have managed it in the history of the sport.

The world number one has four titles in 2020, carved out from 36 wins and just one loss - his now infamous default at the US Open.

However, is the pressure beginning to tell? He dropped his first set of the tournament in his win over Pablo Carreno Busta in the quarter-finals and required treatment on his neck and shoulders.&nbsp;

"I had some neck and shoulder issues. I don't really want to get too much into it. I'm feeling okay," said the 33-year-old who was champion in Paris in 2016.

Djokovic is bidding to make the final for the fifth time and a 27th at the Slams.

Tsitsipas, 22 and playing in his second semi-final at the majors having also reached the last four at the 2019 Australian Open, has got stronger as the tournament has progressed.

After dropping the first two sets of his opener against Jaume Munar, he has swept the next 15.

Tsitsipas is bidding to become the youngest man to reach the Roland Garros final since 2008, when Nadal won the title and youngest to reach a Grand Slam championship match since the 2009 US Open, when Juan Martin del Potro won the title, 10 days short of his 21st birthday.

The Greek has only met Djokovic once on clay, a straight sets loss in the 2019 Madrid final.

"An opponent is an opponent. Doesn't matter if he is injured or not," said Tsitsipas of Djokovic.

&nbsp;

<h2>Paths to the semi-finals (x denotes seeded player)</h2>

Djokovic

1st rd: bt Mikael Ymer (SWE) 6-0, 6-2, 6-3

2nd rd: bt Ricardas Berankis (LTU) 6-1, 6-2, 6-2

3rd rd: bt Daniel Galan (COL) 6-0, 6-3, 6-2

4th rd: bt Karen Khachanov (RUS x15) 6-4, 6-3, 6-3

QF: &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;bt Pablo Carreno Busta (ESP x17) 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, 6-4

Tsitsipas

1st rd: bt Jaume Munar (ESP) 4-6, 2-6, 6-1, 6-4, 6-4

2nd rd: bt Pablo Cuevas (URU) 6-1, 6-4, 6-2

3rd rd: bt Aljaz Bedene (SLO) 6-1, 6-2, 3-1 - retired

4th rd: bt Grigor Dimitrov (BUL x18) 6-3, 7-6 (11/9), 6-2

QF: &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;bt Andrey Rublev (RUS x13) 7-5, 6-2, 6-3

&nbsp;

<h2>Diego Schwartzman (ARG x12) v Rafael Nadal (ESP x2)</h2>

Head-to-head: Nadal leads 9-1

-- Nadal, the 12-time champion, arrived in Paris virtually writing off his chances of equalling Roger Federer's all-time record of 20 Grand Slam titles.

However, the 34-year-old stands on the brink of a 13th Roland Garros final without dropping a set and having spent three and a half hours fewer than Schwartzman in getting to the semi-finals.

He remains cautious over his chances at a tournament being played in the cold and chill of autumn rather than its traditional May-June slot and after finishing his quarter-final against Jannik Sinner at 01:30 on Wednesday morning, he said it was "dangerous for the body with these very heavy conditions".

Nadal's late night on Tuesday was mostly caused by Schwartzman needing more than five hours to defeat US Open champion and third seed Dominic Thiem in five sets to reach his maiden semi-final at the majors.

By contrast, Nadal is in his 34th.

However, Schwartzman will be buoyed by defeating Nadal for the first time in 10 attempts on clay in Rome on the eve of Roland Garros.

Affectionately known as "El Peque" ("shorty"), 28-year-old Schwartzman is a mere 5ft 6in (1.68m) and the smallest player in the world's top 50.

"I was perfect today. I think I'm going to be perfect in semi-final," said Schwartzman, having won his first Grand Slam quarter-final after three previous failures.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<h2>Paths to the semi-finals (x denotes seeded player)</h2>

Schwartzman

1st rd: bt Miomir Kecmanovic (SRB) 6-0, 6-1, 6-3

2nd rd: bt Lorenzo Giustino (ITA) 6-1, 7-5, 6-0

3rd rd: bt Norbert Gombos (SVK) 7-6 (7/3), 6-3, 6-3

4th rd: bt Lorenzo Sonego (ITA) 6-1, 6-3, 6-4

QF: &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;bt Dominic Thiem (AUT x3) 7-6 (7/1), 5-7, 6-7 (6/8), 7-6 (7/5), 6-2

&nbsp;

Nadal

1st rd: bt Egor Gerasimov (BLR) 6-4, 6-4, 6-2

2nd rd: bt Mackenzie McDonald (USA) 6-1, 6-0, 6-3

3rd rd: bt Stefano Travaglia (ITA) 6-1, 6-4, 6-0

4th rd: bt Sebastian Korda (USA) 6-1, 6-1, 6-2

QF: &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;bt Jannik Sinner (ITA) 7-6 (7/4), 6-4, 6-1

Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal, with 36 Grand Slam titles between them, are both just two wins away from creating more tennis history at Roland Garros but standing in the way in Friday's semi-finals are Stefanos Tsitsipas and Diego Schwartzman.

Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal, with 36 Grand Slam titles between them, are both just two wins away from creating more tennis history at Roland Garros but standing in the way in Friday's semi-finals are Stefanos Tsitsipas and Diego Schwartzman. Tsitsipas is the first Greek player to reach the last four in Paris while the diminutive Argentine has put sport in perspective this week with his moving story of how his great-grandfather survived the Holocaust. Novak Djokovic (SRB x1) v Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE x5) Head-to-head: Djokovic leads 3-2 -- Djokovic is chasing a second Roland Garros title and 18th Grand Slam to become the first man in half a century to win all four majors twice. It's such a rare achievement that only Don Budge and Rod Laver have managed it in the history of the sport. The world number one has four titles in 2020, carved out from 36 wins and just one loss - his now infamous default at the US Open. However, is the pressure beginning to tell? He dropped his first set of the tournament in his win over Pablo Carreno Busta in the quarter-finals and required treatment on his neck and shoulders. "I had some neck and shoulder issues. I don't really want to get too much into it. I'm feeling okay," said the 33-year-old who was champion in Paris in 2016. Djokovic is bidding to make the final for the fifth time and a 27th at the Slams. Tsitsipas, 22 and playing in his second semi-final at the majors having also reached the last four at the 2019 Australian Open, has got stronger as the tournament has progressed. After dropping the first two sets of his opener against Jaume Munar, he has swept the next 15. Tsitsipas is bidding to become the youngest man to reach the Roland Garros final since 2008, when Nadal won the title and youngest to reach a Grand Slam championship match since the 2009 US Open, when Juan Martin del Potro won the title, 10 days short of his 21st birthday. The Greek has only met Djokovic once on clay, a straight sets loss in the 2019 Madrid final. "An opponent is an opponent. Doesn't matter if he is injured or not," said Tsitsipas of Djokovic. Paths to the semi-finals (x denotes seeded player) Djokovic 1st rd: bt Mikael Ymer (SWE) 6-0, 6-2, 6-3 2nd rd: bt Ricardas Berankis (LTU) 6-1, 6-2, 6-2 3rd rd: bt Daniel Galan (COL) 6-0, 6-3, 6-2 4th rd: bt Karen Khachanov (RUS x15) 6-4, 6-3, 6-3 QF: bt Pablo Carreno Busta (ESP x17) 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, 6-4 Tsitsipas 1st rd: bt Jaume Munar (ESP) 4-6, 2-6, 6-1, 6-4, 6-4 2nd rd: bt Pablo Cuevas (URU) 6-1, 6-4, 6-2 3rd rd: bt Aljaz Bedene (SLO) 6-1, 6-2, 3-1 - retired 4th rd: bt Grigor Dimitrov (BUL x18) 6-3, 7-6 (11/9), 6-2 QF: bt Andrey Rublev (RUS x13) 7-5, 6-2, 6-3 Diego Schwartzman (ARG x12) v Rafael Nadal (ESP x2) Head-to-head: Nadal leads 9-1 -- Nadal, the 12-time champion, arrived in Paris virtually writing off his chances of equalling Roger Federer's all-time record of 20 Grand Slam titles. However, the 34-year-old stands on the brink of a 13th Roland Garros final without dropping a set and having spent three and a half hours fewer than Schwartzman in getting to the semi-finals. He remains cautious over his chances at a tournament being played in the cold and chill of autumn rather than its traditional May-June slot and after finishing his quarter-final against Jannik Sinner at 01:30 on Wednesday morning, he said it was "dangerous for the body with these very heavy conditions". Nadal's late night on Tuesday was mostly caused by Schwartzman needing more than five hours to defeat US Open champion and third seed Dominic Thiem in five sets to reach his maiden semi-final at the majors. By contrast, Nadal is in his 34th. However, Schwartzman will be buoyed by defeating Nadal for the first time in 10 attempts on clay in Rome on the eve of Roland Garros. Affectionately known as "El Peque" ("shorty"), 28-year-old Schwartzman is a mere 5ft 6in (1.68m) and the smallest player in the world's top 50. "I was perfect today. I think I'm going to be perfect in semi-final," said Schwartzman, having won his first Grand Slam quarter-final after three previous failures. Paths to the semi-finals (x denotes seeded player) Schwartzman 1st rd: bt Miomir Kecmanovic (SRB) 6-0, 6-1, 6-3 2nd rd: bt Lorenzo Giustino (ITA) 6-1, 7-5, 6-0 3rd rd: bt Norbert Gombos (SVK) 7-6 (7/3), 6-3, 6-3 4th rd: bt Lorenzo Sonego (ITA) 6-1, 6-3, 6-4 QF: bt Dominic Thiem (AUT x3) 7-6 (7/1), 5-7, 6-7 (6/8), 7-6 (7/5), 6-2 Nadal 1st rd: bt Egor Gerasimov (BLR) 6-4, 6-4, 6-2 2nd rd: bt Mackenzie McDonald (USA) 6-1, 6-0, 6-3 3rd rd: bt Stefano Travaglia (ITA) 6-1, 6-4, 6-0 4th rd: bt Sebastian Korda (USA) 6-1, 6-1, 6-2 QF: bt Jannik Sinner (ITA) 7-6 (7/4), 6-4, 6-1

Djokovic, Nadal face new-look Roland Garros road blocks

Spanish tennis star Pablo Carreno Busta on Wednesday accused Novak Djokovic of poor sportsmanship during their Roland Garros quarter-final on Wednesday as he felt the world number one didn’t have any genuine health concerns despite battling injury problems.

Djokovic, one of the favourites for the French Open, had his neck taped during the match on Court Philippe Chatrier with restricted movement during the opening set against the world number 18. The Serb further asked his trainer on court to resolve some issues with his upper left arm.

However, the Serbian recovered well and qualified for the semi-finals with a 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, 6-4 win and later added that he had to deal with some physical issues during the early part of his encounter against Busta.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/im-an-adult-now-tsitsipas-chasing-something-spectacular-in-paris-333441" hreflang="en">'I'm an adult now': Tsitsipas chasing 'something spectacular' in Paris</a>

“Each time he is in trouble he usually does it, that means to say that he was in trouble, that he wasn’t comfortable and that I was playing at a high level and was causing him to doubt himself,” Carreno Busta told reporters in Spanish.

“Every time a match gets complicated he asks for medical assistance. He has been doing this for a long time. I already knew that. I knew it would happen at the U.S. Open, I knew it would happen here and I know it will keep on happening.

“I don’t know if it’s something chronic in his shoulder or just mental, but he didn’t put me off.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/second-seeded-rafael-nadal-into-14th-roland-garros-quarter-final-332502" hreflang="en">Second seeded Rafael Nadal into 14th Roland Garros quarter-final</a>

Djokovic also banged his racket against his thigh in frustration following the opening set, the first he lost at this year’s claycourt Grand Slam.

“I don’t know, maybe it’s the pressure or something that he needs to do it. But he continues playing normal, no? I don’t know if he’s (in) pain really or he has mental (issues). Ask him,” Carreno Busta said in English. 
&nbsp;

Spanish tennis star Pablo Carreno Busta on Wednesday accused Novak Djokovic of poor sportsmanship during their Roland Garros quarter-final on Wednesday as he felt the world number one didn’t have any genuine health concerns despite battling injury problems.

Spanish tennis star Pablo Carreno Busta on Wednesday accused Novak Djokovic of poor sportsmanship during their Roland Garros quarter-final on Wednesday as he felt the world number one didn’t have any genuine health concerns despite battling injury problems. Djokovic, one of the favourites for the French Open, had his neck taped during the match on Court Philippe Chatrier with restricted movement during the opening set against the world number 18. The Serb further asked his trainer on court to resolve some issues with his upper left arm. However, the Serbian recovered well and qualified for the semi-finals with a 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, 6-4 win and later added that he had to deal with some physical issues during the early part of his encounter against Busta. ALSO READ: 'I'm an adult now': Tsitsipas chasing 'something spectacular' in Paris “Each time he is in trouble he usually does it, that means to say that he was in trouble, that he wasn’t comfortable and that I was playing at a high level and was causing him to doubt himself,” Carreno Busta told reporters in Spanish. “Every time a match gets complicated he asks for medical assistance. He has been doing this for a long time. I already knew that. I knew it would happen at the U.S. Open, I knew it would happen here and I know it will keep on happening. “I don’t know if it’s something chronic in his shoulder or just mental, but he didn’t put me off.” ALSO READ: Second seeded Rafael Nadal into 14th Roland Garros quarter-final Djokovic also banged his racket against his thigh in frustration following the opening set, the first he lost at this year’s claycourt Grand Slam. “I don’t know, maybe it’s the pressure or something that he needs to do it. But he continues playing normal, no? I don’t know if he’s (in) pain really or he has mental (issues). Ask him,” Carreno Busta said in English.

'Every time a match gets complicated...' - Carreno Busta accuses Djokovic of faking injury

Novak Djokovic targets a 10th Roland Garros semi-final on Wednesday as he faces Pablo Carreno Busta, the man who was on the other side of the net when the world number one was sensationally defaulted at the US Open.

Victory will give the top seed and the 2016 champion a last-four clash against either Stefanos Tsitsipas or Andrey Rublev who are in the quarter-finals in Paris for the first time.

<h2>Novak Djokovic (SRB x1) v Pablo Carreno Busta (ESP x17)</h2>

Head-to-head: Djokovic leads 3-1

-- World number one Djokovic has moved effortlessly into a 14th quarter-final in Paris and 47th overall in the majors as he targets a second French Open and 18th Grand Slam.

He has dropped just 25 games through four rounds and now sits three wins away from becoming the first man in half a century -- and only the third in history -- to win all four Slams twice.

The 33-year-old's only heart-stopping moment came in his last 16 win over Karen Khachanov when a ball ricocheted off the frame of his racquet and accidentally smashed into the face of a line judge.

"My gosh, it was a very awkward deja vu," said the Serb who last month was disqualified from the US Open for an angry swipe of a ball which hit a female line judge squarely in the throat.

That was Djokovic's only 'defeat' against 35 wins this year.

Carreno Busta, the world number 18, has lost both his meetings to Djokovic on clay, in Monte Carlo in 2014 and 2017.

The 29-year-old made the quarter-finals at the US Open and was also in the last eight in Paris in 2017.

However, that experience ended in heartbreak with an abdominal injury forcing him to quit against Rafael Nadal after just 52 minutes.

Carreno Busta, who needed treatment on a stomach problem in last 16 win over Daniel Altmaier on Monday, says that Djokovic's legacy should not be permanently scarred by the incident in New York.

"I think Novak is a great player, a great person. Sometimes we cannot control our emotions. A mistake," said the Spaniard.

Path to the quarter-finals (x indicates seeded player):

Djokovic

1st rd: bt Mikael Ymer (SWE) 6-0, 6-2, 6-3

2nd rd: bt Ricardas Berankis (LTU) 6-1, 6-2, 6-2

3rd rd: bt Daniel Galan (COL) 6-0, 6-3, 6-2

4th rd: bt Karen Khachanov (RUS x15) 6-4, 6-3, 6-3

&nbsp;

Carreno Busta

1st rd: bt John Millman (AUS) 6-3, 6-2, 7-5

2nd rd: bt Guido Pella (ARG) 6-3, 6-2, 6-1

3rd rd: bt Roberto Bautista Agut (ESP x10) 6-4, 6-3, 5-7, 6-4

4th rd: bt Daniel Altmaier (GER) 6-2, 7-5, 6-2

&nbsp;

<h2>Andrey Rublev (RUS x13) v Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE x5)</h2>

Head-to-head: Rublev leads 2-1

-- Less than two weeks after Rublev defeated Tsitsipas in the Hamburg claycourt final, the pair meet again in their debut appearances in the last eight in Paris.

Rublev, the 22-year-old with a mop of unruly red hair, has been a picture of flashy shot-making and defiance in Paris as he reached a third career Slam quarter-final to follow similar runs in New York in 2017 and last month.

In four matches at the tournament, his opponents have served for sets on eight occasions but Rublev has been equal to the task every time.

The Russian has five career titles, three of which have come in this truncated season. Only Djokovic with four can boast a better record.

World number six Tsitsipas, also 22, is equally flamboyant.&nbsp;

He is the first Greek to get this far in Paris and will be playing in the quarter-finals of a major for just the second time following his breakout run at the 2019 Australian Open where he made the semi-finals, defeating Roger Federer on the way.

"Andrey is a tough cookie," said Tsitsipas.

&nbsp;

Path to the quarter-finals (x indicates seeded player):

Rublev

1st rd: bt Sam Querrey (USA) 6-7 (5/7), 6-7 (4/7), 7-5, 6-4, 6-3

2nd rd: bt Alejandro Davidovich Fokina (ESP) 7-5, 6-1, 3-6, 6-1

3rd rd: bt Kevin Anderson (RSA) 6-3, 6-2, 6-3

4th rd: bt Marton Fucsovics (HUN) 6-7 (4/7), 7-5, 6-4, 7-6 (7/3)

&nbsp;

Tsitsipas

1st rd: bt Jaume Munar (ESP) 4-6, 2-6, 6-1, 6-4, 6-4

2nd rd: bt Pablo Cuevas (URU) 6-1, 6-4, 6-2

3rd rd: bt Aljaz Bedene (SLO) 6-1, 6-2, 3-1 - retired

4th rd: bt Grigor Dimitrov (BUL x18) 6-3, 7-6 (11/9), 6-2

Novak Djokovic targets a 10th Roland Garros semi-final on Wednesday as he faces Pablo Carreno Busta, the man who was on the other side of the net when the world number one was sensationally defaulted at the US Open.

Novak Djokovic targets a 10th Roland Garros semi-final on Wednesday as he faces Pablo Carreno Busta, the man who was on the other side of the net when the world number one was sensationally defaulted at the US Open. Victory will give the top seed and the 2016 champion a last-four clash against either Stefanos Tsitsipas or Andrey Rublev who are in the quarter-finals in Paris for the first time. Novak Djokovic (SRB x1) v Pablo Carreno Busta (ESP x17) Head-to-head: Djokovic leads 3-1 -- World number one Djokovic has moved effortlessly into a 14th quarter-final in Paris and 47th overall in the majors as he targets a second French Open and 18th Grand Slam. He has dropped just 25 games through four rounds and now sits three wins away from becoming the first man in half a century -- and only the third in history -- to win all four Slams twice. The 33-year-old's only heart-stopping moment came in his last 16 win over Karen Khachanov when a ball ricocheted off the frame of his racquet and accidentally smashed into the face of a line judge. "My gosh, it was a very awkward deja vu," said the Serb who last month was disqualified from the US Open for an angry swipe of a ball which hit a female line judge squarely in the throat. That was Djokovic's only 'defeat' against 35 wins this year. Carreno Busta, the world number 18, has lost both his meetings to Djokovic on clay, in Monte Carlo in 2014 and 2017. The 29-year-old made the quarter-finals at the US Open and was also in the last eight in Paris in 2017. However, that experience ended in heartbreak with an abdominal injury forcing him to quit against Rafael Nadal after just 52 minutes. Carreno Busta, who needed treatment on a stomach problem in last 16 win over Daniel Altmaier on Monday, says that Djokovic's legacy should not be permanently scarred by the incident in New York. "I think Novak is a great player, a great person. Sometimes we cannot control our emotions. A mistake," said the Spaniard. Path to the quarter-finals (x indicates seeded player): Djokovic 1st rd: bt Mikael Ymer (SWE) 6-0, 6-2, 6-3 2nd rd: bt Ricardas Berankis (LTU) 6-1, 6-2, 6-2 3rd rd: bt Daniel Galan (COL) 6-0, 6-3, 6-2 4th rd: bt Karen Khachanov (RUS x15) 6-4, 6-3, 6-3 Carreno Busta 1st rd: bt John Millman (AUS) 6-3, 6-2, 7-5 2nd rd: bt Guido Pella (ARG) 6-3, 6-2, 6-1 3rd rd: bt Roberto Bautista Agut (ESP x10) 6-4, 6-3, 5-7, 6-4 4th rd: bt Daniel Altmaier (GER) 6-2, 7-5, 6-2 Andrey Rublev (RUS x13) v Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE x5) Head-to-head: Rublev leads 2-1 -- Less than two weeks after Rublev defeated Tsitsipas in the Hamburg claycourt final, the pair meet again in their debut appearances in the last eight in Paris. Rublev, the 22-year-old with a mop of unruly red hair, has been a picture of flashy shot-making and defiance in Paris as he reached a third career Slam quarter-final to follow similar runs in New York in 2017 and last month. In four matches at the tournament, his opponents have served for sets on eight occasions but Rublev has been equal to the task every time. The Russian has five career titles, three of which have come in this truncated season. Only Djokovic with four can boast a better record. World number six Tsitsipas, also 22, is equally flamboyant. He is the first Greek to get this far in Paris and will be playing in the quarter-finals of a major for just the second time following his breakout run at the 2019 Australian Open where he made the semi-finals, defeating Roger Federer on the way. "Andrey is a tough cookie," said Tsitsipas. Path to the quarter-finals (x indicates seeded player): Rublev 1st rd: bt Sam Querrey (USA) 6-7 (5/7), 6-7 (4/7), 7-5, 6-4, 6-3 2nd rd: bt Alejandro Davidovich Fokina (ESP) 7-5, 6-1, 3-6, 6-1 3rd rd: bt Kevin Anderson (RSA) 6-3, 6-2, 6-3 4th rd: bt Marton Fucsovics (HUN) 6-7 (4/7), 7-5, 6-4, 7-6 (7/3) Tsitsipas 1st rd: bt Jaume Munar (ESP) 4-6, 2-6, 6-1, 6-4, 6-4 2nd rd: bt Pablo Cuevas (URU) 6-1, 6-4, 6-2 3rd rd: bt Aljaz Bedene (SLO) 6-1, 6-2, 3-1 - retired 4th rd: bt Grigor Dimitrov (BUL x18) 6-3, 7-6 (11/9), 6-2

Djokovic eyes 10th Roland Garros semi-final

Top seed Novak Djokovic continued his imperious progress at the French Open with a 6-0 6-3 6-2 drubbing of Colombian Daniel Galan to effortlessly reach the last 16 for the 11th straight year on Saturday.

The 33-year-old was rarely extended by his 153rd-ranked opponent and even found time to double up as a court sweeper when the match was briefly interrupted by rain.

Djokovic, like 12-time champion Rafa Nadal, has reached the fourth round without the loss of a set although things will toughen up with powerful Russian Karen Khachanov up next.

The 33-year-old Serb won the first set in 28 minutes and when he broke for a 2-0 lead in the second set a rare 'triple bagel' looked a possibility.

But Galan, a lucky loser from qualifying, got on the board with a rasping forehand winner which brought loud cheers from the small crowd on Court Philippe Chatrier.

With heavy rain falling and the new roof sliding slowly across, meaning Galan was exposed to the elements and Djokovic was not, the Serb ordered the chair umpire to halt play after his opponent slipped during a rally on the muddy baseline.

After groundsmen with wheelbarrows had spread more clay across the court to improve the slimy surface, a laughing Djokovic offered a hand, grabbing a sweeper, before resuming his day job with the roof closed.

Djokovic was surprised the roof had not been closed earlier.

"I saw the forecast and it didn't look good at all," he said. "If you have a roof why not use it. I thought we lost quite a bit of time."

He has certainly not been wasting any time so far in the French capital and once play resumed the outcome was never in doubt, although Galan did make the world number one work up a sweat with some courageous tennis of his own.

Djokovic, bidding for his second title at Roland Garros and 18th Grand Slam, saved four break points in a competitive third set before completing his 71st French Open match win, taking him past Roger Federer into second place behind Nadal who has 96.

Top seed Novak Djokovic continued his imperious progress at the French Open with a 6-0 6-3 6-2 drubbing of Colombian Daniel Galan to effortlessly reach the last 16 for the 11th straight year on Saturday.

Top seed Novak Djokovic continued his imperious progress at the French Open with a 6-0 6-3 6-2 drubbing of Colombian Daniel Galan to effortlessly reach the last 16 for the 11th straight year on Saturday. The 33-year-old was rarely extended by his 153rd-ranked opponent and even found time to double up as a court sweeper when the match was briefly interrupted by rain. Djokovic, like 12-time champion Rafa Nadal, has reached the fourth round without the loss of a set although things will toughen up with powerful Russian Karen Khachanov up next. The 33-year-old Serb won the first set in 28 minutes and when he broke for a 2-0 lead in the second set a rare 'triple bagel' looked a possibility. But Galan, a lucky loser from qualifying, got on the board with a rasping forehand winner which brought loud cheers from the small crowd on Court Philippe Chatrier. With heavy rain falling and the new roof sliding slowly across, meaning Galan was exposed to the elements and Djokovic was not, the Serb ordered the chair umpire to halt play after his opponent slipped during a rally on the muddy baseline. After groundsmen with wheelbarrows had spread more clay across the court to improve the slimy surface, a laughing Djokovic offered a hand, grabbing a sweeper, before resuming his day job with the roof closed. Djokovic was surprised the roof had not been closed earlier. "I saw the forecast and it didn't look good at all," he said. "If you have a roof why not use it. I thought we lost quite a bit of time." He has certainly not been wasting any time so far in the French capital and once play resumed the outcome was never in doubt, although Galan did make the world number one work up a sweat with some courageous tennis of his own. Djokovic, bidding for his second title at Roland Garros and 18th Grand Slam, saved four break points in a competitive third set before completing his 71st French Open match win, taking him past Roger Federer into second place behind Nadal who has 96.

French Open: Serbian ace Djokovic sweeps past Galan into last 16

World number Novak Djokovic is on the verge of breaking Roger Federer’s record at Roland Garros when the Serbian ace takes on Colobian Daniel Elahi Galan during the third round match on Saturday. Djokovic equaled Federer’s record as he advanced to the third round of the French Open 2020 after defeating Ricardas Berankis on Thursday, also equaling Federer’s record of 70 wins at Roland Garros.

Both Federer and Djokovic now have 70 wins on the Parisian clay and the Serb will be gunning to go past the Swiss maestro on Saturday. In other Grand slams, Djokovic has won 75 (Australian Open), 72 (Wimbledon) and 75 matches (US Open) whereas Federer records 102, 101 and 89 wins respectively for the same.

If Djokovic defeats Elahi Galan on Saturday, then he will become the second player to have most wins at Roland Garros after Rafael Nadal, who tops the list.&nbsp;

After winning a record-equaling match at Roland Garros, Novak Djokovic said to reporters, “Grand Slams are obviously the biggest tournaments in our sport.” &nbsp;

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Speaking about his achievements in Grand Slam events, Serb said, “Historically, they count the most. So, of course, winning that many matches in each slam are a great achievement, and of course, it makes me proud, makes me happy.”

The Serb has 17 Grand Slam titles after qualifying 26 times for the finals. Djokovic continuing his statement said: “Over the two weeks, it takes a lot of energy and effort to invest in winning a Grand Slam. It’s kind of a confirmation for me that I have been able to play my best tennis throughout my career in the biggest tournaments.”

World number Novak Djokovic is on the verge of breaking Roger Federer’s record at Roland Garros when the Serbian ace takes on Colobian Daniel Elahi Galan during the third round match on Saturday.

World number Novak Djokovic is on the verge of breaking Roger Federer’s record at Roland Garros when the Serbian ace takes on Colobian Daniel Elahi Galan during the third round match on Saturday. Djokovic equaled Federer’s record as he advanced to the third round of the French Open 2020 after defeating Ricardas Berankis on Thursday, also equaling Federer’s record of 70 wins at Roland Garros. Both Federer and Djokovic now have 70 wins on the Parisian clay and the Serb will be gunning to go past the Swiss maestro on Saturday. In other Grand slams, Djokovic has won 75 (Australian Open), 72 (Wimbledon) and 75 matches (US Open) whereas Federer records 102, 101 and 89 wins respectively for the same. If Djokovic defeats Elahi Galan on Saturday, then he will become the second player to have most wins at Roland Garros after Rafael Nadal, who tops the list. After winning a record-equaling match at Roland Garros, Novak Djokovic said to reporters, “Grand Slams are obviously the biggest tournaments in our sport.” ALSO READ: Fernando Verdasco wants to sue Roland Garros after being forced to quit French Open 2020 Speaking about his achievements in Grand Slam events, Serb said, “Historically, they count the most. So, of course, winning that many matches in each slam are a great achievement, and of course, it makes me proud, makes me happy.” The Serb has 17 Grand Slam titles after qualifying 26 times for the finals. Djokovic continuing his statement said: “Over the two weeks, it takes a lot of energy and effort to invest in winning a Grand Slam. It’s kind of a confirmation for me that I have been able to play my best tennis throughout my career in the biggest tournaments.”

Roland Garros: Novak Djokovic on verge of surpassing Roger Federer's record

Novak Djokovic will renew his love-hate relationship with Roland Garros in the knowledge that it is himself rather than seemingly unsettled 12-time champion Rafael Nadal who could pose the greatest threat to winning a second Paris title and 18th Grand Slam crown.

The only man to beat Djokovic in 2020 is Djokovic after the Serb's hair-trigger temper prompted a sensational disqualification from the US Open.

The 33-year-old arrives in the French capital with a 31-1 record this year after his New York brain-fade was followed by a record 36th Masters title in Rome.

Djokovic's 2016 triumph at Roland Garros allowed him to become only the third man after Don Budge and Rod Laver to hold all four Grand Slams at the same time.

Not even Nadal, the holder of 19 majors, or Roger Federer, with a record 20 Slams, can match that staggering achievement.

Federer will miss the French Open as he rehabs his injured knee while Nadal has played just three matches since February, a ring-rustiness evident in his quarter-final exit in Rome.

However, Djokovic refused to get carried away by his chances at Roland Garros ahead of Sunday's start in a wet and chilly Paris.

"It's Nadal," insisted the world number one when pushed on who is the favourite. "You just can't put anybody in front of him."

Djokovic is right to be cautious after experiencing numerous low points on the red clay of Paris.

In the 2012 final against Nadal, having won eight games in a row, he was up a break and pushing to level the match at two sets apiece when rain brought an overnight suspension.

Play resumed the following day but Djokovic's momentum was lost and a double-fault on championship point completed his misery.

Twelve months later, Djokovic was poised for a semi-final win over Nadal with just a routine putaway required to help give him a 5-3 final set lead and a chance to serve for the match.

However, he chose a smash rather than a soothing touch. He tumbled into the net, losing the point and Nadal pounced to eventually take the tie after four hours and 37 minutes.

In 2018, he lost a quarter-final to world number 72 Marco Cecchinato while last year he was beaten in the semi-finals by Dominic Thiem.

That match took two days to complete, featured numerous rain stoppages and winds so strong that a courtside umbrella was sent flying across court.

<h2>- 'Ball is dangerous' -</h2>

&nbsp;

Djokovic will start his tournament against Sweden's Mikael Ymer, the world number 80.

Nadal, who skipped the defence of his US Open title due to fears over coronavirus, eyes a 13th French Open.

Since his title-winning debut in 2005, the Spaniard has only lost twice at Roland Garros in 95 matches - to Robin Soderling in 2009 and Djokovic in 2015.

The 34-year-old may appear to be under-cooked after his last-eight exit in Rome to Diego Schwartzman.

However, the last time he suffered such an early departure from the Italian capital was in 2017 -- just weeks later he was lifting a 10th French Open without dropping a set.

Nadal cut an unsettled figure at a pre-tournament press conference on Friday where he admitted the cold and damp conditions forced him to face his "most difficult ever Roland Garros".

He is also unhappy about using a new brand of ball.

"For the health of the players, the ball is super heavy and becomes dangerous for the elbow and for the shoulders," he said.

Nadal begins his campaign against Egor Gerasimov, the 83rd-ranked Belarusian.

The unusual sight of Roland Garros being played in the autumn also means radically different conditions to those expected in its normal time slot of May and June.

&nbsp;

<h2>- Murray v Wawrinka first round -</h2>

That could suit newly-crowned US Open winner Thiem who has lost the last two finals to Nadal in Paris.

The world number three Austrian has 17 career titles with 10 of those on clay.

Four of his five wins over Nadal have come on clay with three of four victories against Djokovic carved out on the sport's most testing surface.

This year, Thiem will be in the same half of the draw as Nadal and starts against Marin Cilic, the 2014 US Open winner and a former world number three.

World number five Daniil Medvedev has yet to win a match at the tournament in three visits while sixth-ranked Stefanos Tsitsipas made the last 16 in 2019, losing a five-set marathon to 2015 champion Stan Wawrinka.

Wawrinka faces fellow three-time major winner Andy Murray in the first round on Sunday in a rematch of their 2017 semi-final epic, a tie which Murray described as the clash which "ended his hip".

Novak Djokovic will renew his love-hate relationship with Roland Garros in the knowledge that it is himself rather than seemingly unsettled 12-time champion Rafael Nadal who could pose the greatest threat to winning a second Paris title and 18th Grand Slam crown.

Novak Djokovic will renew his love-hate relationship with Roland Garros in the knowledge that it is himself rather than seemingly unsettled 12-time champion Rafael Nadal who could pose the greatest threat to winning a second Paris title and 18th Grand Slam crown. The only man to beat Djokovic in 2020 is Djokovic after the Serb's hair-trigger temper prompted a sensational disqualification from the US Open. The 33-year-old arrives in the French capital with a 31-1 record this year after his New York brain-fade was followed by a record 36th Masters title in Rome. Djokovic's 2016 triumph at Roland Garros allowed him to become only the third man after Don Budge and Rod Laver to hold all four Grand Slams at the same time. Not even Nadal, the holder of 19 majors, or Roger Federer, with a record 20 Slams, can match that staggering achievement. Federer will miss the French Open as he rehabs his injured knee while Nadal has played just three matches since February, a ring-rustiness evident in his quarter-final exit in Rome. However, Djokovic refused to get carried away by his chances at Roland Garros ahead of Sunday's start in a wet and chilly Paris. "It's Nadal," insisted the world number one when pushed on who is the favourite. "You just can't put anybody in front of him." Djokovic is right to be cautious after experiencing numerous low points on the red clay of Paris. In the 2012 final against Nadal, having won eight games in a row, he was up a break and pushing to level the match at two sets apiece when rain brought an overnight suspension. Play resumed the following day but Djokovic's momentum was lost and a double-fault on championship point completed his misery. Twelve months later, Djokovic was poised for a semi-final win over Nadal with just a routine putaway required to help give him a 5-3 final set lead and a chance to serve for the match. However, he chose a smash rather than a soothing touch. He tumbled into the net, losing the point and Nadal pounced to eventually take the tie after four hours and 37 minutes. In 2018, he lost a quarter-final to world number 72 Marco Cecchinato while last year he was beaten in the semi-finals by Dominic Thiem. That match took two days to complete, featured numerous rain stoppages and winds so strong that a courtside umbrella was sent flying across court. - 'Ball is dangerous' - Djokovic will start his tournament against Sweden's Mikael Ymer, the world number 80. Nadal, who skipped the defence of his US Open title due to fears over coronavirus, eyes a 13th French Open. Since his title-winning debut in 2005, the Spaniard has only lost twice at Roland Garros in 95 matches - to Robin Soderling in 2009 and Djokovic in 2015. The 34-year-old may appear to be under-cooked after his last-eight exit in Rome to Diego Schwartzman. However, the last time he suffered such an early departure from the Italian capital was in 2017 -- just weeks later he was lifting a 10th French Open without dropping a set. Nadal cut an unsettled figure at a pre-tournament press conference on Friday where he admitted the cold and damp conditions forced him to face his "most difficult ever Roland Garros". He is also unhappy about using a new brand of ball. "For the health of the players, the ball is super heavy and becomes dangerous for the elbow and for the shoulders," he said. Nadal begins his campaign against Egor Gerasimov, the 83rd-ranked Belarusian. The unusual sight of Roland Garros being played in the autumn also means radically different conditions to those expected in its normal time slot of May and June. - Murray v Wawrinka first round - That could suit newly-crowned US Open winner Thiem who has lost the last two finals to Nadal in Paris. The world number three Austrian has 17 career titles with 10 of those on clay. Four of his five wins over Nadal have come on clay with three of four victories against Djokovic carved out on the sport's most testing surface. This year, Thiem will be in the same half of the draw as Nadal and starts against Marin Cilic, the 2014 US Open winner and a former world number three. World number five Daniil Medvedev has yet to win a match at the tournament in three visits while sixth-ranked Stefanos Tsitsipas made the last 16 in 2019, losing a five-set marathon to 2015 champion Stan Wawrinka. Wawrinka faces fellow three-time major winner Andy Murray in the first round on Sunday in a rematch of their 2017 semi-final epic, a tie which Murray described as the clash which "ended his hip".

Djokovic braced for unhappy Nadal and Roland Garros demons

World number one Novak Djokovic overcame a sluggish start to lift his fifth Italian Open title on Monday, defeating Argentine Diego Schwartzman 7-5 6-3 for a record 36th ATP Masters crown.

Playing in his maiden ATP 1000 final, eighth seed Schwartzman raced out of the blocks to convert two break point opportunities for a 3-0 lead as Djokovic`s usually clinical backhand offered up some errors.

An on-and-off drizzle at Foro Italico, which included a smattering of fans, added to Djokovic`s frustration but he still found a way past Schwartzman`s serve to draw level at 3-3.

Djokovic`s relentless baseline hitting came to the fore when he broke Schwartzman in the 12th game to take the opening set, despite committing 18 unforced errors.

Schwartzman, who outplayed defending champion Rafa Nadal in the quarter-finals, snatched another early break in the second set but Djokovic was quick to respond.

The top seed stepped up the intensity to break Schwartzman`s serve twice before serving out the match comfortably to seal victory -- clinching it with a drop shot.

"It was a great week, a very challenging week," Djokovic, who was playing his first event since being defaulted at the U.S. Open for inadvertently hitting a line judge with a ball, said on court. "I found my best tennis when I needed it most." 
"I`m proud that I managed to find the fifth gear when I needed it."

Djokovic`s win moves him clear on the list of Masters 1000 titles, one ahead of rival Nadal, and sets him up perfectly for an assault on next week`s rescheduled French Open.

"Now we turn to Paris and I couldn`t ask for a better tournament here in Rome," the 33-year-old Djokovic, the oldest male winner of the Italian Open title, said.

Heading into Roland Garros, Djokovic has won 31 of his 32 matches this season, and will be among the favourites alongside 12-times winner Nadal and U.S. Open champion Dominic Thiem.

World number one Novak Djokovic overcame a sluggish start to lift his fifth Italian Open title on Monday, defeating Argentine Diego Schwartzman 7-5 6-3 for a record 36th ATP Masters crown.

World number one Novak Djokovic overcame a sluggish start to lift his fifth Italian Open title on Monday, defeating Argentine Diego Schwartzman 7-5 6-3 for a record 36th ATP Masters crown. Playing in his maiden ATP 1000 final, eighth seed Schwartzman raced out of the blocks to convert two break point opportunities for a 3-0 lead as Djokovic`s usually clinical backhand offered up some errors. An on-and-off drizzle at Foro Italico, which included a smattering of fans, added to Djokovic`s frustration but he still found a way past Schwartzman`s serve to draw level at 3-3. Djokovic`s relentless baseline hitting came to the fore when he broke Schwartzman in the 12th game to take the opening set, despite committing 18 unforced errors. Schwartzman, who outplayed defending champion Rafa Nadal in the quarter-finals, snatched another early break in the second set but Djokovic was quick to respond. The top seed stepped up the intensity to break Schwartzman`s serve twice before serving out the match comfortably to seal victory -- clinching it with a drop shot. "It was a great week, a very challenging week," Djokovic, who was playing his first event since being defaulted at the U.S. Open for inadvertently hitting a line judge with a ball, said on court. "I found my best tennis when I needed it most." "I`m proud that I managed to find the fifth gear when I needed it." Djokovic`s win moves him clear on the list of Masters 1000 titles, one ahead of rival Nadal, and sets him up perfectly for an assault on next week`s rescheduled French Open. "Now we turn to Paris and I couldn`t ask for a better tournament here in Rome," the 33-year-old Djokovic, the oldest male winner of the Italian Open title, said. Heading into Roland Garros, Djokovic has won 31 of his 32 matches this season, and will be among the favourites alongside 12-times winner Nadal and U.S. Open champion Dominic Thiem.

Djokovic wins fifth Italian Open to make Masters history

Rafael Nadal returns to competition after a six-month enforced break while Novak Djokovic is looking to make up for his US Open disqualification as the short clay-court season got underway in Rome on Monday without spectators.

The tournament at Rome's Foro Italico normally takes place in May but was pushed back after the coronavirus pandemic which turned the calendar upside down.

"Obviously, it's not the same thing. There is no public, we are in a bubble, we cannot enjoy the city," said Nadal, who will play his first competitive match since his win in Acapulco at the end of February.

"But at least we have a tennis tournament."

Nadal, 34, is the second seed behind world number one Djokovic in the tune-up for the final Grand Slam of the season at the French Open on September 27.

"Excited to be back. Circumstances have been, you know, heavy for everyone, tough ones," said Nadal who is targeting a tenth title in the Roman capital.&nbsp;

Professional tennis was shut down from March until early August.&nbsp;

And the world number two opted out of the US hard court tour because of coronavirus concerns and citing the "madness" of the new calendar.&nbsp;

"Without regret," he insisted before his second round tie midweek against 27th-ranked compatriot Pablo Carreno Busta, who reached the semi-finals of the US Open.

"I am similar to always, maybe a little bit worse because I didn't compete for the last six months.

"But here I am. I arrived with plenty of time to try to have the right practices. That's what I am doing. I know I have a tough match against Pablo. He's playing great."&nbsp;

"It's going to be a good test. I'm excited about going back to the competition without big expectations."

But third seed Stefanos Tsitsipas does not believe the lack of competition will have an impact on two-time defending champion Nadal who has a 61-6 record in the tournament.

"I don't think Rafa will be struggling much playing here," said Tsitsipas.&nbsp;

"Regardless of how he feels, I'm sure he'll find a way. He always finds a way every single year."

<h2>- 'Big lesson' -</h2>

Four-time Rome winner Djokovic, who has reached nine finals in the Italian capital, wants to turn the page on his dramatic disqualification in the round of 16 at the US Open, after throwing the ball involuntarily at a lines judge.&nbsp;

"It's great that I have a tournament right after that happened, because I feel like the earlier I get back in a competition mode, the faster I'll overcome that memory and kind of reprogramme it," the Serb told reporters in the Italian capital.

"When you hit a ball like I did, you have a chance to hit someone on the court. The rules are clear, I accepted that.&nbsp;

"I'm going to take this in, you know, as profound as possible for me as a big lesson."

Djokovic had been unbeaten this year before his US Open exit and is targeting a title he last won in 2015.

"Rafa obviously decided to stay on clay and practice, surely that gives him more advantage, but even if he didn't practice for that long on clay, he would still be the number one favourite in Roland Garros or any other clay tournament because he's Rafa, you know," he added.&nbsp;

"And playing on clay he's the ultimate challenge.

"It's going to be adjustment challenge, you know, how quickly can we adapt, how quickly can we adjust to this new surface."

<h2>- 'Feel safe' -</h2>

The women's tournament will be without Australian world number one Ashleigh Barty, who will not compete again this season because of coronavirus concerns.

Serena Williams, suffering from an Achilles tendon problem, and US Open champion Naomi Osaka will also skip the Rome event.

World number two Simona Halep, absent in the United States, will be the top seed.

"I'm a little bit scared of what is going on in the world, but here I feel safe," said Halep.&nbsp;

"Everything is really well taken care of. We cannot leave the hotel, we cannot leave the bubble.&nbsp;

"I feel ready to start the tournament, and I am also looking forward to the French Open," added the 2018 Roland Garros champion.

Czech Karolina Pliskova, seeded third, is the defending champion in Rome.&nbsp;

Rafael Nadal returns to competition after a six-month enforced break while Novak Djokovic is looking to make up for his US Open disqualification as the short clay-court season got underway in Rome on Monday without spectators.

Rafael Nadal returns to competition after a six-month enforced break while Novak Djokovic is looking to make up for his US Open disqualification as the short clay-court season got underway in Rome on Monday without spectators. The tournament at Rome's Foro Italico normally takes place in May but was pushed back after the coronavirus pandemic which turned the calendar upside down. "Obviously, it's not the same thing. There is no public, we are in a bubble, we cannot enjoy the city," said Nadal, who will play his first competitive match since his win in Acapulco at the end of February. "But at least we have a tennis tournament." Nadal, 34, is the second seed behind world number one Djokovic in the tune-up for the final Grand Slam of the season at the French Open on September 27. "Excited to be back. Circumstances have been, you know, heavy for everyone, tough ones," said Nadal who is targeting a tenth title in the Roman capital. Professional tennis was shut down from March until early August. And the world number two opted out of the US hard court tour because of coronavirus concerns and citing the "madness" of the new calendar. "Without regret," he insisted before his second round tie midweek against 27th-ranked compatriot Pablo Carreno Busta, who reached the semi-finals of the US Open. "I am similar to always, maybe a little bit worse because I didn't compete for the last six months. "But here I am. I arrived with plenty of time to try to have the right practices. That's what I am doing. I know I have a tough match against Pablo. He's playing great." "It's going to be a good test. I'm excited about going back to the competition without big expectations." But third seed Stefanos Tsitsipas does not believe the lack of competition will have an impact on two-time defending champion Nadal who has a 61-6 record in the tournament. "I don't think Rafa will be struggling much playing here," said Tsitsipas. "Regardless of how he feels, I'm sure he'll find a way. He always finds a way every single year." - 'Big lesson' - Four-time Rome winner Djokovic, who has reached nine finals in the Italian capital, wants to turn the page on his dramatic disqualification in the round of 16 at the US Open, after throwing the ball involuntarily at a lines judge. "It's great that I have a tournament right after that happened, because I feel like the earlier I get back in a competition mode, the faster I'll overcome that memory and kind of reprogramme it," the Serb told reporters in the Italian capital. "When you hit a ball like I did, you have a chance to hit someone on the court. The rules are clear, I accepted that. "I'm going to take this in, you know, as profound as possible for me as a big lesson." Djokovic had been unbeaten this year before his US Open exit and is targeting a title he last won in 2015. "Rafa obviously decided to stay on clay and practice, surely that gives him more advantage, but even if he didn't practice for that long on clay, he would still be the number one favourite in Roland Garros or any other clay tournament because he's Rafa, you know," he added. "And playing on clay he's the ultimate challenge. "It's going to be adjustment challenge, you know, how quickly can we adapt, how quickly can we adjust to this new surface." - 'Feel safe' - The women's tournament will be without Australian world number one Ashleigh Barty, who will not compete again this season because of coronavirus concerns. Serena Williams, suffering from an Achilles tendon problem, and US Open champion Naomi Osaka will also skip the Rome event. World number two Simona Halep, absent in the United States, will be the top seed. "I'm a little bit scared of what is going on in the world, but here I feel safe," said Halep. "Everything is really well taken care of. We cannot leave the hotel, we cannot leave the bubble. "I feel ready to start the tournament, and I am also looking forward to the French Open," added the 2018 Roland Garros champion. Czech Karolina Pliskova, seeded third, is the defending champion in Rome.

Nadal returns, Djokovic looking for redemption in Rome

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