Former world number one Novak Djokovic came back from six months off the tennis circuit due to an elbow injury to play the Australian Open at the start of the new season. The first of four grand slam tournaments between January and September takes place in Melbourne at the height of Australia&rsquo;s summer. In recent years, it has become sport&rsquo;s most dramatic illustration of the effects of global warming. Year after year, daytime temperatures climb to increasingly unbearable levels for the players, many of whom are forced to retire before completing their best-of-five set match.

Early in the tournament, after several hours struggling in extreme heat to defeat Gael Monfils, Djokovic expressed his growing concern.&nbsp;Here is how he describes&nbsp;the state of tennis&nbsp;today: &ldquo;Our sport has become an industry. It&rsquo;s more business than a sport. At times I don&rsquo;t like that. Of course, we&rsquo;re all blessed to have great financial compensation, great lives. I&rsquo;m very grateful for that. At the same time, what is most important for us is our health and what happens after our careers, after you&rsquo;re 30, 35.&rdquo;

This raises a serious question: Does it make sense to call an individual sport in which two players strike a ball on opposite sides of a net an industry? Perhaps the word &ldquo;industry&rdquo; has changed its meaning.

Here is today&rsquo;s 3D definition:

Industry:

Every human activity from which a profit can be earned. Formerly, industry only applied to those human activities that required high levels of investment and organization to produce and distribute goods.

CONTEXTUAL NOTE

Sport is one of the mainstays of the attention economy. When traditionally shared social values end up in tatters as a result of ever-increasing consumerist individualism, people turn to competitive sport as an alternative to religion, patriotism and politics &mdash; on which no one can agree &mdash; to anchor their loyalties and even their identity. The movers and shakers of the attention economy have seized the occasion and progressively exploited the trend to the point at which the athletes themselves have become products and the most successful ones brands in their own right. The uncontested stars of their sport attract far more revenue from their chosen corporate sponsors than from the increasingly well-endowed prize money they earn from competing.

Djokovic doesn&rsquo;t fail to express his gratitude for the windfall this represents for his own well-being. But in moments like these, when it becomes obvious that the power of commercial interests dwarfs the power and skill of finely tuned athletes and endangers their livelihood, the Serbian champion allows himself to express some minor misgivings about the cynicism of a system more focused on a sponsor&rsquo;s bottom line than the court&rsquo;s rectangular white lines and the players&rsquo; longevity.

HISTORICAL NOTE

There is a double movement in the modern history of sports and tennis in particular. Amateur sports were long considered the ideal. To qualify for the Olympic Games and to participate in a tennis grand slam (Paris, Wimbledon, New York, Melbourne) one had to be an amateur. Pros were not allowed to compete. As a result, for most of the 20th-century amateur athletes were often held in higher esteem than professionals. Exactly 50 years ago, in 1968, the four prestigious grand slam tennis tournaments became &ldquo;Opens,&rdquo; allowing professional tennis players to compete for the first time.

The growing popularity of televised sporting events opened the door to sponsorship on a dramatically new level. Famous athletes had always been courted by commercial interests, but this is when the trend to brand everything began. Athletes themselves became first products and then brands. Today, their image is often managed by their direct sponsors and they are coached to &ldquo;say nice things&rdquo; about the sponsors of events, who made it possible for them to compete. The organizers of major tournaments, which attract hundreds of millions of spectators through the media, have become adept at milking every possible profit out of their events and the performing athletes, even when their health may be at risk.

The sport, in other words, has become the window dressing of an industry. The athletes, to a large extent interchangeable &mdash; with the exception of stars such as Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic &mdash; have become their cash cow or the goose that lays the golden eggs. Djokovic,&nbsp;followed by Nadal, has allowed himself to wonder out loud how many more golden eggs their industrial masters will allow them to lay.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

This <a href="https://www.fairobserver.com/culture/australian-open-tennis-novak-djokovic-sports-news-25095/">article </a>was published originally in the <a href="https://www.fairobserver.com/">Fair Observer</a>.

Playing in the hot Australian summer, Djokovic says tennis is more of a business than a sport.

Former world number one Novak Djokovic came back from six months off the tennis circuit due to an elbow injury to play the Australian Open at the start of the new season. The first of four grand slam tournaments between January and September takes place in Melbourne at the height of Australia’s summer. In recent years, it has become sport’s most dramatic illustration of the effects of global warming. Year after year, daytime temperatures climb to increasingly unbearable levels for the players, many of whom are forced to retire before completing their best-of-five set match. Early in the tournament, after several hours struggling in extreme heat to defeat Gael Monfils, Djokovic expressed his growing concern. Here is how he describes the state of tennis today: “Our sport has become an industry. It’s more business than a sport. At times I don’t like that. Of course, we’re all blessed to have great financial compensation, great lives. I’m very grateful for that. At the same time, what is most important for us is our health and what happens after our careers, after you’re 30, 35.” This raises a serious question: Does it make sense to call an individual sport in which two players strike a ball on opposite sides of a net an industry? Perhaps the word “industry” has changed its meaning. Here is today’s 3D definition: Industry: Every human activity from which a profit can be earned. Formerly, industry only applied to those human activities that required high levels of investment and organization to produce and distribute goods. CONTEXTUAL NOTE Sport is one of the mainstays of the attention economy. When traditionally shared social values end up in tatters as a result of ever-increasing consumerist individualism, people turn to competitive sport as an alternative to religion, patriotism and politics — on which no one can agree — to anchor their loyalties and even their identity. The movers and shakers of the attention economy have seized the occasion and progressively exploited the trend to the point at which the athletes themselves have become products and the most successful ones brands in their own right. The uncontested stars of their sport attract far more revenue from their chosen corporate sponsors than from the increasingly well-endowed prize money they earn from competing. Djokovic doesn’t fail to express his gratitude for the windfall this represents for his own well-being. But in moments like these, when it becomes obvious that the power of commercial interests dwarfs the power and skill of finely tuned athletes and endangers their livelihood, the Serbian champion allows himself to express some minor misgivings about the cynicism of a system more focused on a sponsor’s bottom line than the court’s rectangular white lines and the players’ longevity. HISTORICAL NOTE There is a double movement in the modern history of sports and tennis in particular. Amateur sports were long considered the ideal. To qualify for the Olympic Games and to participate in a tennis grand slam (Paris, Wimbledon, New York, Melbourne) one had to be an amateur. Pros were not allowed to compete. As a result, for most of the 20th-century amateur athletes were often held in higher esteem than professionals. Exactly 50 years ago, in 1968, the four prestigious grand slam tennis tournaments became “Opens,” allowing professional tennis players to compete for the first time. The growing popularity of televised sporting events opened the door to sponsorship on a dramatically new level. Famous athletes had always been courted by commercial interests, but this is when the trend to brand everything began. Athletes themselves became first products and then brands. Today, their image is often managed by their direct sponsors and they are coached to “say nice things” about the sponsors of events, who made it possible for them to compete. The organizers of major tournaments, which attract hundreds of millions of spectators through the media, have become adept at milking every possible profit out of their events and the performing athletes, even when their health may be at risk. The sport, in other words, has become the window dressing of an industry. The athletes, to a large extent interchangeable — with the exception of stars such as Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic — have become their cash cow or the goose that lays the golden eggs. Djokovic, followed by Nadal, has allowed himself to wonder out loud how many more golden eggs their industrial masters will allow them to lay. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) This article was published originally in the Fair Observer.

Opinion: Is Tennis an “Industry”?

Stan Wawrinka d&nbsp;Ricardas Berankis,&nbsp;6-3, 6-4, 2-6, 7-6 (7/2)

Former champion Stan Wawrinka was taken to four sets before winning his first match since knee surgery in July at the Australian Open on Tuesday.

The three-time Grand Slam winner downed Ricardas Berankis 6-3, 6-4, 2-6, 7-6 (7/2) on Hisense Arena.

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The man. ???? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/stanwawrinka?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StanWawrinka</a> <a href="https://t.co/RDCXrLzNTi">pic.twitter.com/RDCXrLzNTi</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/953146072217485313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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It was a confidence booster for the 2014 Melbourne Park champion who had a troubled lead-in to the year&#39;s opening Grand Slam, pulling out of an exhibition event in Abu Dhabi.

The Swiss star, who defeated Rafael Nadal to win in 2014, has slipped to nine in the world rankings, having not played since his first-round Wimbledon loss to Russian Daniil Medvedev six months ago.

&quot;It was a tough battle and I&#39;m really happy to win my first match here after six months out,&quot; Wawrinka said.

Alexander Zverev d&nbsp;Thomas Fabbiano,&nbsp;6-1, 7-6 (7/5), 7-5

Young German star Alexander Zverev needed a hard-fought three sets to get through his opening encounter at the Australian Open on Tuesday and spoke of his search for greater consistency.

The world No.4 spent 2hr 22min on Rod Laver Arena before claiming a 6-1, 7-6 (7/5), 7-5 win over 73rd-ranked Italian Thomas Fabbiano.

Zverev, at the vanguard of the &quot;NextGen&quot; brigade, will face fellow German Peter Gojowczyk in the second round.

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&quot;My dog doesn&#39;t even realise who I am, so, you know, nothing changes at home.&quot; 
 
Sascha Zverev may be Top 5 but that doesn&#39;t matter to much his pup...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/SNRVjTwNeq">pic.twitter.com/SNRVjTwNeq</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/953149936404590592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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While the 20-year-old won five titles and was one of just four players to beat Roger Federer last year, he has yet to get beyond the fourth round at a Grand Slam.

&quot;I think last year I was pretty consistent, apart from the end of the year,&quot; Zverev said.

&quot;I think my game is getting more consistent with age as well. I think that&#39;s also something that is a factor of maturity.

&quot;So I&#39;m just trying to get better every single day, and that&#39;s what I&#39;m here for,&quot; he added.

Novak Djokovic d&nbsp;Donald Young,&nbsp;6-1, 6-2, 6-4

Six-times champion Novak Djokovic&nbsp;looked the part&nbsp;as&nbsp;he powered to a convincing&nbsp;first-round&nbsp;victory at the Australian Open on Tuesday on his return from an elbow injury.

The 12-times Grand Slam champion, seeded an unfamiliar 14, was too strong for American Donald Young, winning 6-1, 6-2, 6-4&nbsp;in 1hr 51min on Margaret Court Arena.

It was an impressive performance, with the Serb breaking Young&#39;s left-handed serve six times, hitting 33 winners and conceding only 27 unforced errors.

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The Nole of old. 
 
Full match report of <a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DjokerNole</a>&#39;s triumphant return to Grand Slam action ➡️<a href="https://t.co/NM22di4I6x">https://t.co/NM22di4I6x</a> <a href="https://t.co/NryKXCEKqR">pic.twitter.com/NryKXCEKqR</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/953166187151552513?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&quot;There is no better place to start than here in Australia, I love coming here, I love playing here,&quot; Djokovic told the crowd.

&quot;It&#39;s been a long period without any official matches but I spent as much quality time as I could with my family.

&quot;I wanted to start with the right intensity, which I have, I played perfect tennis in the first couple of sets and Donald came back in the third set.&quot;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-sharapova-enters-second-round-after-beating-tatjana-maria-29648" target="_blank">Australian Open: Sharapova enters second round after beating Tatjana Maria</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-belinda-bencic-on-first-round-win-over-venus-williams-29570" target="_blank">Watch: Belinda Bencic on first-round win over Venus Williams</a>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The three-time Grand Slam winner downed Ricardas Berankis 6-3, 6-4, 2-6, 7-6 (7/2) on Hisense Arena

Stan Wawrinka d Ricardas Berankis, 6-3, 6-4, 2-6, 7-6 (7/2) Former champion Stan Wawrinka was taken to four sets before winning his first match since knee surgery in July at the Australian Open on Tuesday. The three-time Grand Slam winner downed Ricardas Berankis 6-3, 6-4, 2-6, 7-6 (7/2) on Hisense Arena. The man. ???? #AusOpen @StanWawrinka pic.twitter.com/RDCXrLzNTi — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 16, 2018 × It was a confidence booster for the 2014 Melbourne Park champion who had a troubled lead-in to the year's opening Grand Slam, pulling out of an exhibition event in Abu Dhabi. The Swiss star, who defeated Rafael Nadal to win in 2014, has slipped to nine in the world rankings, having not played since his first-round Wimbledon loss to Russian Daniil Medvedev six months ago. "It was a tough battle and I'm really happy to win my first match here after six months out," Wawrinka said. Alexander Zverev d Thomas Fabbiano, 6-1, 7-6 (7/5), 7-5 Young German star Alexander Zverev needed a hard-fought three sets to get through his opening encounter at the Australian Open on Tuesday and spoke of his search for greater consistency. The world No.4 spent 2hr 22min on Rod Laver Arena before claiming a 6-1, 7-6 (7/5), 7-5 win over 73rd-ranked Italian Thomas Fabbiano. Zverev, at the vanguard of the "NextGen" brigade, will face fellow German Peter Gojowczyk in the second round. "My dog doesn't even realise who I am, so, you know, nothing changes at home." Sascha Zverev may be Top 5 but that doesn't matter to much his pup...#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/SNRVjTwNeq — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 16, 2018 × While the 20-year-old won five titles and was one of just four players to beat Roger Federer last year, he has yet to get beyond the fourth round at a Grand Slam. "I think last year I was pretty consistent, apart from the end of the year," Zverev said. "I think my game is getting more consistent with age as well. I think that's also something that is a factor of maturity. "So I'm just trying to get better every single day, and that's what I'm here for," he added. Novak Djokovic d Donald Young, 6-1, 6-2, 6-4 Six-times champion Novak Djokovic looked the part as he powered to a convincing first-round victory at the Australian Open on Tuesday on his return from an elbow injury. The 12-times Grand Slam champion, seeded an unfamiliar 14, was too strong for American Donald Young, winning 6-1, 6-2, 6-4 in 1hr 51min on Margaret Court Arena. It was an impressive performance, with the Serb breaking Young's left-handed serve six times, hitting 33 winners and conceding only 27 unforced errors. The Nole of old. Full match report of @DjokerNole's triumphant return to Grand Slam action ➡️https://t.co/NM22di4I6x pic.twitter.com/NryKXCEKqR — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 16, 2018 × "There is no better place to start than here in Australia, I love coming here, I love playing here," Djokovic told the crowd. "It's been a long period without any official matches but I spent as much quality time as I could with my family. "I wanted to start with the right intensity, which I have, I played perfect tennis in the first couple of sets and Donald came back in the third set." Australian Open: Sharapova enters second round after beating Tatjana Maria Watch: Belinda Bencic on first-round win over Venus Williams

Australian Open: Wawrinka, Zverev, Djokovic enter second round

Novak Djokovic returned after six months with a bang. He defeated&nbsp;Dominic Thiem 6-1, 6-4 in straight sets. He was suffering from an elbow injury and has not played since Wimbledon in July, where he was ruled out by&nbsp;Tomas Berdych&nbsp;in the quarterfinals.

The exhibition match at Kooyong was his first match of the year. His performance showed no signs of injury. He&nbsp;was in good form and full of optimism&nbsp;as he played exceptionally well.

The Serbian 12-time Grand Slam winner&nbsp;could not control his smile after the winning the match and in the post-match presentation, said that&nbsp;he felt &quot;great&quot; after defeating world number five Dominic Thiem.

Djokovic has dropped to number 14 in the world ranking but seemed fit enough to chase his&nbsp;record seventh Australian Open crown next week.

&quot;I feel great, I was eager to get onto the court,&quot; he said after playing with a flesh-coloured sleeve on his right arm.

&quot;I had a great opponent, it was a test for me to see where I am, how the work we did pays off on the court. It worked pretty well.&quot;

&quot;There was a doubt, especially after I pulled out of the first week of the year,&quot; he admitted.&nbsp;

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Really looking forward to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TieBreakTens?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TieBreakTens</a> Melbourne Jan 10. Excited to try out this new fast paced format. It&rsquo;s a great line up and I can&rsquo;t wait to get out on court! Are you ready? <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/stanwawrinka?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@stanwawrinka</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/tomasberdych?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tomasberdych</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ThiemDomi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ThiemDomi</a>.. ???? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EveryPointCounts?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EveryPointCounts</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZSc3bUkICA">pic.twitter.com/ZSc3bUkICA</a>
&mdash; Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) <a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole/status/950599664923037701?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&quot;I personally didn&#39;t know what&#39;s going to happen. We did some treatment and obviously gave it a lot of thought. Luckily for me, I&#39;m here and so I&#39;m hoping in the next four, five days everything will go well and I&#39;ll be ready for the Open.&quot;

&quot;I don&#39;t want to be over-confident, but I&#39;m very, very happy with how it went today,&quot; added the 30-year-old.

&quot;I don&#39;t say I&#39;m at 100 percent, I can only say that when I get the feel of a tournament. Ideally, I would have had another tournament before the start of the Open,&nbsp;&nbsp;but it was not meant to be.

&quot;I&#39;ll take whatever I can -- one or two matches here will be good preparation.&quot;

&quot;Especially the serve &ndash; that was the biggest question mark because of the elbow, that shot in my game was compromised.&quot;

Thiem, who only arrived in Melbourne on Monday night from Doha after four days in bed with a virus, presented only a minimal challenge to the recharged Serb.

&quot;I&#39;m free of fever and healthy again,&quot; the Austrian said. &quot;I&#39;m still jet-lagged and was slow at the beginning of the match. I&#39;ll sleep, eat and train and not do too much. I&#39;ll be fine for the Open.&quot;

&quot;The most important thing is to feel the conditions, to get comfortable,&quot; he said. &quot;It&#39;s important to find a good rhythm.

&quot;Overall, I&#39;m quite happy with my level. I was feeling the ball well and hitting cleanly from both sides.&quot;

&quot;I&#39;m hoping in the next four or five days everything will go well and I&rsquo;ll be ready for the Open.&quot;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Djokovic has not played since Wimbledon 2017 due to an elbow injury, now he will chase a record 7th Australian Open crown next week

Novak Djokovic returned after six months with a bang. He defeated Dominic Thiem 6-1, 6-4 in straight sets. He was suffering from an elbow injury and has not played since Wimbledon in July, where he was ruled out by Tomas Berdych in the quarterfinals. The exhibition match at Kooyong was his first match of the year. His performance showed no signs of injury. He was in good form and full of optimism as he played exceptionally well. The Serbian 12-time Grand Slam winner could not control his smile after the winning the match and in the post-match presentation, said that he felt "great" after defeating world number five Dominic Thiem. Djokovic has dropped to number 14 in the world ranking but seemed fit enough to chase his record seventh Australian Open crown next week. "I feel great, I was eager to get onto the court," he said after playing with a flesh-coloured sleeve on his right arm. "I had a great opponent, it was a test for me to see where I am, how the work we did pays off on the court. It worked pretty well." "There was a doubt, especially after I pulled out of the first week of the year," he admitted. Really looking forward to #TieBreakTens Melbourne Jan 10. Excited to try out this new fast paced format. It’s a great line up and I can’t wait to get out on court! Are you ready? @RafaelNadal @stanwawrinka @tomasberdych @ThiemDomi.. ???? #EveryPointCounts pic.twitter.com/ZSc3bUkICA — Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) January 9, 2018 × "I personally didn't know what's going to happen. We did some treatment and obviously gave it a lot of thought. Luckily for me, I'm here and so I'm hoping in the next four, five days everything will go well and I'll be ready for the Open." "I don't want to be over-confident, but I'm very, very happy with how it went today," added the 30-year-old. "I don't say I'm at 100 percent, I can only say that when I get the feel of a tournament. Ideally, I would have had another tournament before the start of the Open, but it was not meant to be. "I'll take whatever I can -- one or two matches here will be good preparation." "Especially the serve – that was the biggest question mark because of the elbow, that shot in my game was compromised." Thiem, who only arrived in Melbourne on Monday night from Doha after four days in bed with a virus, presented only a minimal challenge to the recharged Serb. "I'm free of fever and healthy again," the Austrian said. "I'm still jet-lagged and was slow at the beginning of the match. I'll sleep, eat and train and not do too much. I'll be fine for the Open." "The most important thing is to feel the conditions, to get comfortable," he said. "It's important to find a good rhythm. "Overall, I'm quite happy with my level. I was feeling the ball well and hitting cleanly from both sides." "I'm hoping in the next four or five days everything will go well and I’ll be ready for the Open."

Very happy with return ahead of Australian Open: Djokovic

Former world number one Novak Djokovic today withdrew from next week&#39;s Qatar Open, casting doubt on his participation at the Australian Open later in January.

Qatar is the second tournament Djokovic has pulled out in as many days due to a niggling elbow injury.

The 12-time Grand Slam champion was the top seed in Doha, but in a statement, he said he would not be able to defend the title he won by beating Andy Murray last year.

His withdrawal comes just 24 hours after the injury forced him to drop out of an exhibition tournament in Abu Dhabi.

&quot;Unfortunately, the situation with the elbow has not changed for the better since yesterday,&quot; said Djokovic.

&quot;I still feel the pain. Therefore, I will have to withdraw from (the) ATP tournament in Doha.&quot;

The Serb added: &quot;Only when I&#39;m 100 per cent ready to play, I will be able to come back.

&quot;I hope it will be soon. I want to thank everyone for patience and understanding.&quot;

The latest announcement raises fresh doubts over the long-term future of the 30-year-old and more immediately his availability for the first Grand Slam of the season, the Australian Open, which begins on January 15.

In recent years, Djokovic has used the Qatar tournament as a valuable warm-up for the Australian Open.

In 2016, after beating Rafa Nadal in the Qatar final he went on to claim his sixth Australian title.

Last year in Doha, he ended then world number one Murray&#39;s 28-match winning streak to claim his second Qatar title in a riveting final.

Djokovic was targeting Doha as his first match since his quarter-finals loss at Wimbledon in July this year.

Austria&#39;s Dominic Thiem, world ranked number five, has now been made the Qatar Open number one seed.

The draw for the tournament takes place later on Saturday.

Qatar Open tournament director admitted Djokovic &#39;will surely be missed&#39;.&nbsp;

It is the 2nd tournament Djokovic has pulled out in as many days due to a niggling elbow injury

Former world number one Novak Djokovic today withdrew from next week's Qatar Open, casting doubt on his participation at the Australian Open later in January. Qatar is the second tournament Djokovic has pulled out in as many days due to a niggling elbow injury. The 12-time Grand Slam champion was the top seed in Doha, but in a statement, he said he would not be able to defend the title he won by beating Andy Murray last year. His withdrawal comes just 24 hours after the injury forced him to drop out of an exhibition tournament in Abu Dhabi. "Unfortunately, the situation with the elbow has not changed for the better since yesterday," said Djokovic. "I still feel the pain. Therefore, I will have to withdraw from (the) ATP tournament in Doha." The Serb added: "Only when I'm 100 per cent ready to play, I will be able to come back. "I hope it will be soon. I want to thank everyone for patience and understanding." The latest announcement raises fresh doubts over the long-term future of the 30-year-old and more immediately his availability for the first Grand Slam of the season, the Australian Open, which begins on January 15. In recent years, Djokovic has used the Qatar tournament as a valuable warm-up for the Australian Open. In 2016, after beating Rafa Nadal in the Qatar final he went on to claim his sixth Australian title. Last year in Doha, he ended then world number one Murray's 28-match winning streak to claim his second Qatar title in a riveting final. Djokovic was targeting Doha as his first match since his quarter-finals loss at Wimbledon in July this year. Austria's Dominic Thiem, world ranked number five, has now been made the Qatar Open number one seed. The draw for the tournament takes place later on Saturday. Qatar Open tournament director admitted Djokovic 'will surely be missed'.

Australia doubts as Novak Djokovic pulls out of Qatar Open

Seven-time champion Roger Federer reached the Wimbledon semi-finals for the 12th time on Wednesday with a 6-4, 6-2, 7-6 (7/4) win over Milos Raonic.

Federer, 35, and playing in his 100th match at the All England Club, will now face 2010 runner-up Tomas Berdych for a place in Sunday&#39;s final.

Berdych made the last-four when three-time champion Novak Djokovic retired with a right elbow injury when trailing the Czech 7-6 (7/2), 2-0.

Federer is the second oldest man to reach the semi-finals after Ken Rosewall who finished runner-up in 1974 at the age of 39.

&quot;100 matches, I can&#39;t believe it, that&#39;s a lot,&quot; said Federer, who is chasing a record eighth Wimbledon title.

&quot;I&#39;m very happy my body kept me going over all these years. It was a perfect setting, beautiful weather -- a Mexican wave on Centre Court, you don&#39;t see that every day. I&#39;m so happy to be through.

&quot;I&#39;m very pleased with how I&#39;m playing. You can always play a little better. You adjust to the conditions.

&quot;It&#39;s like going to work, you can&#39;t produce the best every single day but you have to make sure your average is as high as possible.&quot;

Canadian sixth seed Raonic had knocked out Federer in the semi-finals in 2016, a defeat which led the Swiss superstar to shut down the rest of his season to rest a knee injury.

On Wednesday, Federer matched the big-serving Canadian with 11 aces while crunching a spectacular 46 winners.

He also saved all five break points he faced and has reached the semi-finals without dropping a set.

Elbow injury forces Djokovic to quit quarter-final

Novak Djokovic said a right elbow injury was to blame for his retirement from Wednesday&#39;s Wimbledon quarter-final against Tomas Berdych.

Djokovic needed treatment on his elbow at the end of the first set and was already dealing with a long-term right shoulder problem.

The three-time Wimbledon champion, who would have regained the world number one ranking if he had won the tournament, was trailing 7-6 (7/2), 2-0 when he called it quits on Court One.

Czech world number 15 Berdych, the 2010 Wimbledon runner-up, goes on to face seven-time champion Roger Federer for a place in Sunday&#39;s final.

&quot;It&#39;s my elbow. It&#39;s been bothering me for a year and a half. It&#39;s unfortunate I have to finish Wimbledon like this,&quot; said Djokovic after his first Grand Slam retirement since the 2009 Australian Open quarter-finals.

&quot;I started feeling it at the beginning of the tournament. The level of pain was always increasing and today was the worst day.

&quot;I tried what I could do to get it in condition to be able to play.

&quot;All the treatments couldn&#39;t really help. The serve and forehand were the shots I could feel it most.&quot;

Djokovic was especially frustrated to have had to pull out with an injury after complaining bitterly that Wimbledon organisers should have allowed his last 16 match to be played on Monday evening instead of Tuesday morning.

The 12-time Grand Slam champion had to face Adrian Mannarino a day later than scheduled due to the late finish of Rafael Nadal&#39;s defeat against Gilles Muller.

Djokovic had needed treatment on his shoulder during his victory over Mannarino.

&quot;Those kinds of circumstances don&#39;t really help. This is the kind of situation you have to accept and try to make the most out of it,&quot; Djokovic said.

&quot;I spent about two hours on the treatment table in between the warm-up and the match to make me fit.

&quot;It wasn&#39;t to be. For an athlete in an individual sport, there is no way out when you are injured.

&quot;I will have to take some time and see what needs to be done. I guess a break is something I will have to consider right now.&quot;

Decline

The 30-year-old Serb had held a 25-2 career record over Berdych and hadn&#39;t lost to the Czech in four years.

But instead of extending that streak, the world number four will leave London nursing his injury and his pride as the worst period of his career shows no sign of improving.

Since winning the French Open last year to complete his career Grand Slam, Djokovic has failed to win another major title.

He crashed out of the Australian Open in the second round and the French Open in the quarter-finals.

With world number one Andy Murray crashing out against Sam Querrey earlier on Wednesday, Djokovic walked onto Court One knowing he would regain top spot in the rankings if he won Wimbledon for a fourth time.

But if that should have served as extra motivation for Djokovic, there were immediate signs that his fitness was a problem when a sloppy tie-break cost him the first set.

The Serb called for a medical timeout after the first set to have his right elbow massaged by a physio.

But Berdych seized the chance to add to Djokovic&#39;s woes with a break in the second game of the second set.

That was the signal for Djokovic to trudge forlornly to the net to withdraw from the match.

Federer becomes the second oldest man to reach the semi-finals, elbow injury forces Djokovic to quit quarter-final

Seven-time champion Roger Federer reached the Wimbledon semi-finals for the 12th time on Wednesday with a 6-4, 6-2, 7-6 (7/4) win over Milos Raonic. Federer, 35, and playing in his 100th match at the All England Club, will now face 2010 runner-up Tomas Berdych for a place in Sunday's final. Berdych made the last-four when three-time champion Novak Djokovic retired with a right elbow injury when trailing the Czech 7-6 (7/2), 2-0. Federer is the second oldest man to reach the semi-finals after Ken Rosewall who finished runner-up in 1974 at the age of 39. "100 matches, I can't believe it, that's a lot," said Federer, who is chasing a record eighth Wimbledon title. "I'm very happy my body kept me going over all these years. It was a perfect setting, beautiful weather -- a Mexican wave on Centre Court, you don't see that every day. I'm so happy to be through. "I'm very pleased with how I'm playing. You can always play a little better. You adjust to the conditions. "It's like going to work, you can't produce the best every single day but you have to make sure your average is as high as possible." Canadian sixth seed Raonic had knocked out Federer in the semi-finals in 2016, a defeat which led the Swiss superstar to shut down the rest of his season to rest a knee injury. On Wednesday, Federer matched the big-serving Canadian with 11 aces while crunching a spectacular 46 winners. He also saved all five break points he faced and has reached the semi-finals without dropping a set. Elbow injury forces Djokovic to quit quarter-final Novak Djokovic said a right elbow injury was to blame for his retirement from Wednesday's Wimbledon quarter-final against Tomas Berdych. Djokovic needed treatment on his elbow at the end of the first set and was already dealing with a long-term right shoulder problem. The three-time Wimbledon champion, who would have regained the world number one ranking if he had won the tournament, was trailing 7-6 (7/2), 2-0 when he called it quits on Court One. Czech world number 15 Berdych, the 2010 Wimbledon runner-up, goes on to face seven-time champion Roger Federer for a place in Sunday's final. "It's my elbow. It's been bothering me for a year and a half. It's unfortunate I have to finish Wimbledon like this," said Djokovic after his first Grand Slam retirement since the 2009 Australian Open quarter-finals. "I started feeling it at the beginning of the tournament. The level of pain was always increasing and today was the worst day. "I tried what I could do to get it in condition to be able to play. "All the treatments couldn't really help. The serve and forehand were the shots I could feel it most." Djokovic was especially frustrated to have had to pull out with an injury after complaining bitterly that Wimbledon organisers should have allowed his last 16 match to be played on Monday evening instead of Tuesday morning. The 12-time Grand Slam champion had to face Adrian Mannarino a day later than scheduled due to the late finish of Rafael Nadal's defeat against Gilles Muller. Djokovic had needed treatment on his shoulder during his victory over Mannarino. "Those kinds of circumstances don't really help. This is the kind of situation you have to accept and try to make the most out of it," Djokovic said. "I spent about two hours on the treatment table in between the warm-up and the match to make me fit. "It wasn't to be. For an athlete in an individual sport, there is no way out when you are injured. "I will have to take some time and see what needs to be done. I guess a break is something I will have to consider right now." Decline The 30-year-old Serb had held a 25-2 career record over Berdych and hadn't lost to the Czech in four years. But instead of extending that streak, the world number four will leave London nursing his injury and his pride as the worst period of his career shows no sign of improving. Since winning the French Open last year to complete his career Grand Slam, Djokovic has failed to win another major title. He crashed out of the Australian Open in the second round and the French Open in the quarter-finals. With world number one Andy Murray crashing out against Sam Querrey earlier on Wednesday, Djokovic walked onto Court One knowing he would regain top spot in the rankings if he won Wimbledon for a fourth time. But if that should have served as extra motivation for Djokovic, there were immediate signs that his fitness was a problem when a sloppy tie-break cost him the first set. The Serb called for a medical timeout after the first set to have his right elbow massaged by a physio. But Berdych seized the chance to add to Djokovic's woes with a break in the second game of the second set. That was the signal for Djokovic to trudge forlornly to the net to withdraw from the match.

Wimbledon: Federer cruises, Djokovic defaults

Double French Open champion Jim Courier said Novak Djokovic&#39;s decision to work with so-called &quot;guru&quot;&nbsp;Pepe Imaz was partly to blame for his shock defeat at Roland Garros on Wednesday.

Defending champion Djokovic, who recently split with his long-term coaching team and worked with former great Andre Agassi in the first week in Paris, crumbled to a 7-6(5) 6-3 6-0 defeat by Austrian Dominic Thiem in the quarter-finals.

The last set whizzed by in 20 minutes as Djokovic appeared to be going through the motions -- falling short of a seventh successive French Open semi-final.

&quot;The problem when one of the people on your team is all about love and peace and has been part of the camp for over a year, it&#39;s not something that you can fall back on when you are pushed into a hole,&quot; American Courier, working for British broadcaster ITV, said.

&quot;Novak showed no fight and maybe it was partly down to the windy conditions. He despises playing in the wind. He really seemed to accept the outcome well before it was conclusive.&quot;

Courier said world number two Djokovic must seek out Agassi to try and rediscover the spark that appears to be missing.

&quot;Andre knows how to broach this type of thing and will ask the right questions to see how Novak can avoid this kind of thing going forward,&quot; Courier said.

&quot;But there are questions remaining about Novak. Since Wimbledon last year there have been so many question marks about what&#39;s going on, on and off the court.&quot;

Imaz, a former Spanish player, has been described as a &quot;spiritual guru&quot; who uses the philosophy &quot;peace and love&quot; at his tennis academy. Djokovic linked up with him last year.

(Reuters)

'...He despises playing in the wind. He really seemed to accept the outcome well before it was conclusive'

Double French Open champion Jim Courier said Novak Djokovic's decision to work with so-called "guru" Pepe Imaz was partly to blame for his shock defeat at Roland Garros on Wednesday. Defending champion Djokovic, who recently split with his long-term coaching team and worked with former great Andre Agassi in the first week in Paris, crumbled to a 7-6(5) 6-3 6-0 defeat by Austrian Dominic Thiem in the quarter-finals. The last set whizzed by in 20 minutes as Djokovic appeared to be going through the motions -- falling short of a seventh successive French Open semi-final. "The problem when one of the people on your team is all about love and peace and has been part of the camp for over a year, it's not something that you can fall back on when you are pushed into a hole," American Courier, working for British broadcaster ITV, said. "Novak showed no fight and maybe it was partly down to the windy conditions. He despises playing in the wind. He really seemed to accept the outcome well before it was conclusive." Courier said world number two Djokovic must seek out Agassi to try and rediscover the spark that appears to be missing. "Andre knows how to broach this type of thing and will ask the right questions to see how Novak can avoid this kind of thing going forward," Courier said. "But there are questions remaining about Novak. Since Wimbledon last year there have been so many question marks about what's going on, on and off the court." Imaz, a former Spanish player, has been described as a "spiritual guru" who uses the philosophy "peace and love" at his tennis academy. Djokovic linked up with him last year. (Reuters)

Djokovic eliminated from French Open: 'Showed no fight', says Courier

Nine-time champion Rafa Nadal is back in action as he takes on fellow Spaniard Pablo Carreno Busta in the quarter-finals, with a possible last-four meeting with Novak Djokovic looming.

While fourth seed Nadal, playing one of his best Roland Garros, is expected to overwhelm his compatriot on Court Philippe Chatrier, defending champion Novak Djokovic can expect tougher opposition against Austrian Dominic Thiem, the sixth seed.

Both matches were rescheduled after rain disrupted Tuesday&#39;s programme. No rain is expected on Wednesday although the wind could be a factor.

World number one Andy Murray, who has been improving since arriving in Paris, takes on Japanese eighth seed Kei Nishikori, who was handed his first grand-slam bagel in six years in the third round.

Former champion Stan Wawrinka will be the clear favourite when he takes on Marin Cilic as the top four looks set for a semi-final reunion.

The women&#39;s draw is side open and Caroline Garcia will hope to become the first French woman to reach the semi-finals since Marion Bartoli in 2011 when she faces world number three Karolina Pliskova.

In a match dubbed &#39;the final before the final&#39;, Romanian Simona Halep plays Ukraine&#39;s Elina Svitolina.

(Reuters)

Djokovic and Nadal are each one win away from meeting in the finals, but Novak has a tougher draw

Nine-time champion Rafa Nadal is back in action as he takes on fellow Spaniard Pablo Carreno Busta in the quarter-finals, with a possible last-four meeting with Novak Djokovic looming. While fourth seed Nadal, playing one of his best Roland Garros, is expected to overwhelm his compatriot on Court Philippe Chatrier, defending champion Novak Djokovic can expect tougher opposition against Austrian Dominic Thiem, the sixth seed. Both matches were rescheduled after rain disrupted Tuesday's programme. No rain is expected on Wednesday although the wind could be a factor. World number one Andy Murray, who has been improving since arriving in Paris, takes on Japanese eighth seed Kei Nishikori, who was handed his first grand-slam bagel in six years in the third round. Former champion Stan Wawrinka will be the clear favourite when he takes on Marin Cilic as the top four looks set for a semi-final reunion. The women's draw is side open and Caroline Garcia will hope to become the first French woman to reach the semi-finals since Marion Bartoli in 2011 when she faces world number three Karolina Pliskova. In a match dubbed 'the final before the final', Romanian Simona Halep plays Ukraine's Elina Svitolina. (Reuters)

Ominous Nadal back on court in Paris

Novak Djokovic revealed on Sunday that American great Andre Agassi would be his new coach, but said they did not yet have a &quot;long-term commitment&quot;.

&quot;I spoke to Andre the last couple weeks on the phone, and we decided to get together in Paris. So he`s gonna be there. We`ll see what future brings. We are both excited to work together and see where it takes us,&quot; said Djokovic, beaten 6-4, 6-3 in the Rome Masters final on Sunday by 20-year-old German Alexander Zverev.

&quot;We don`t have any long-term commitment. It`s just us trying to get to know each other in Paris a little bit.&quot;

Djokovic returns to Paris next weekend as the defending French Open champion but looking to improve his clay court game after an inconsistent spell.

He parted with long-time coach Marian Vajda earlier this month, having also ended a three-year relationship with six-time Grand Slam champion Boris Becker at the end of last season, in a bid to get back to his brilliant best.

Given his performances of late, he will be hoping 47-year-old Agassi, an eight-time Grand Slam champion can make a positive contribution.

The Serbian was outplayed by Spanish nemesis Rafael Nadal on his way to defeat in the semi-finals of the Madrid Masters last week.&nbsp;

And despite reaching the final in Rome on Sunday, Djokovic looked well below his clinical best before losing to German starlet Zverev in 1hr 21min.

Next up is his defence of his title in the French capital, and Djokovic added: &quot;He (Agassi) will not stay the whole tournament. He`s gonna stay only to a certain time, and then we`ll see after that what`s gonna happen. Obviously, Andre is someone that I have tremendous respect for as a person and as a player. He has been through everything that I`m going through. You know, on the court he understands the game amazingly well. I am enjoying every conversation that I have with him. But also, on the other hand, he`s someone that nurtures the family values, philanthropy work. He`s a very humble man, is very educated in just -- you know, he`s a person that can contribute to my life on and off the court a lot. I`m very excited to see what is ahead of us.&quot;

Agassi, unlike television pundit Becker, has been away from the sport for a considerable time having retired in 2006.

Djokovic said he managed to seduce Agassi, the 1999 French Open champion, smiling: &quot;I persuaded him.&quot;

He added: &quot;He`s someone that has been so successful in this sport, and he`s a legend of our sport. He`s made a mark in this sport forever. He`s won everything there is to win in tennis.

&quot;You know, he was a revolutionary player because he had this charisma, he had this, you know, approach to tennis and to life that was quite different from others.

&quot;That`s why he was so interesting. Yes, he has been away from the tour for last 10, 15 years, but speaking with him, he`s been definitely following up closely all the matches, the big matches, especially on the TV.&quot;

&quot;It was his call whether or not he wants to take that step and, you know, try to work with me. He has accepted it, and I`m very grateful for that. It`s exciting, of course. I`m very happy about it.&quot;

(Reuters)

The defending French Open champion parted with long-time coach Marian Vajda earlier this month

Novak Djokovic revealed on Sunday that American great Andre Agassi would be his new coach, but said they did not yet have a "long-term commitment". "I spoke to Andre the last couple weeks on the phone, and we decided to get together in Paris. So he`s gonna be there. We`ll see what future brings. We are both excited to work together and see where it takes us," said Djokovic, beaten 6-4, 6-3 in the Rome Masters final on Sunday by 20-year-old German Alexander Zverev. "We don`t have any long-term commitment. It`s just us trying to get to know each other in Paris a little bit." Djokovic returns to Paris next weekend as the defending French Open champion but looking to improve his clay court game after an inconsistent spell. He parted with long-time coach Marian Vajda earlier this month, having also ended a three-year relationship with six-time Grand Slam champion Boris Becker at the end of last season, in a bid to get back to his brilliant best. Given his performances of late, he will be hoping 47-year-old Agassi, an eight-time Grand Slam champion can make a positive contribution. The Serbian was outplayed by Spanish nemesis Rafael Nadal on his way to defeat in the semi-finals of the Madrid Masters last week. And despite reaching the final in Rome on Sunday, Djokovic looked well below his clinical best before losing to German starlet Zverev in 1hr 21min. Next up is his defence of his title in the French capital, and Djokovic added: "He (Agassi) will not stay the whole tournament. He`s gonna stay only to a certain time, and then we`ll see after that what`s gonna happen. Obviously, Andre is someone that I have tremendous respect for as a person and as a player. He has been through everything that I`m going through. You know, on the court he understands the game amazingly well. I am enjoying every conversation that I have with him. But also, on the other hand, he`s someone that nurtures the family values, philanthropy work. He`s a very humble man, is very educated in just -- you know, he`s a person that can contribute to my life on and off the court a lot. I`m very excited to see what is ahead of us." Agassi, unlike television pundit Becker, has been away from the sport for a considerable time having retired in 2006. Djokovic said he managed to seduce Agassi, the 1999 French Open champion, smiling: "I persuaded him." He added: "He`s someone that has been so successful in this sport, and he`s a legend of our sport. He`s made a mark in this sport forever. He`s won everything there is to win in tennis. "You know, he was a revolutionary player because he had this charisma, he had this, you know, approach to tennis and to life that was quite different from others. "That`s why he was so interesting. Yes, he has been away from the tour for last 10, 15 years, but speaking with him, he`s been definitely following up closely all the matches, the big matches, especially on the TV." "It was his call whether or not he wants to take that step and, you know, try to work with me. He has accepted it, and I`m very grateful for that. It`s exciting, of course. I`m very happy about it." (Reuters)

Andre Agassi to be Novak Djokovic's new coach

Novak Djokovic overcame having to play twice in a day before cruising into the final of the Rome Masters with a ruthless 6-1, 6-0 win over Dominic Thiem on Saturday.

Djokovic, the former four-time champion, was forced to finish his quarter-final over Juan Martin del Potro earlier in the day after their match was rained off late on Friday.

But the setback seemed only to inspire the 30-year-old Serbian second seed, as he set up what is expected to be a mouthwatering final, and first meeting, with Germany&#39;s Alexander Zverev.

&quot;It was my best performance of the year,&quot; said Djokovic after his 59-minute win over Thiem who had knocked out Rafael Nadal in the quarter-finals.

Zverev, 20, became the youngest player in a decade to reach a Masters final when he clinched a gutsy 6-4, 6-7 (5/7), 6-1 win over big-serving American John Isner.

Djokovic was the previous youngest Masters finalist, going all the way to the title in Miami as a 19-year-old in 2007.

Zverev will climb to a new career high in the rankings at number 14 by reaching the final and would break into the top 10 with the title.

&quot;I don&#39;t look at these kind of stats, who is the youngest player to have a Masters 1000 title or things like this. I try to play match by match and try to improve,&quot; said Zverev, who fired 12 aces and 41 winners past the 32-year-old Isner.

Thiem, beaten to the Madrid Masters title by Nadal last week, avenged his loss by dumping Spain&#39;s former seven-time Rome champion out in the quarters on Friday.

But the Austrian&#39;s dream run was quickly brought to an end by a clinical Djokovic on Saturday as the Serbian took his record to 5-0 against the 23-year-old.

In the WTA event, French Open champion Garbine Muguruza was forced to retire due to a neck injury from her semi-final against Ukraine&#39;s Elina Svitolina.

The Spanish third seed was 1-4 down after just 22 minutes in the first set when she quit, handing the eighth-seeded Svitolina a place in Sunday&#39;s final against Romania&#39;s Simona Halep.

Svitolina will chase a fourth title of the year after trophy triumphs in Taiwan, Dubai and Istanbul.

Muguruza had needed three sets to beat Venus Williams in the quarter-finals on Friday night.

&quot;I didn&#39;t want to leave Rome without trying to play,&quot; said Muguruza.

Sixth-seeded Halep, the champion in Madrid last weekend, reached her first final in Rome after sweeping aside Dutchwoman Kiki Bertens 7-5, 6-1 in her semi-final.

&quot;Sometimes a win over a top player gives you confidence,&quot; Halep said after her semi-final.

&quot;Sometimes the work you do before the tournaments gives you confidence that you are ready to go. Sometimes just winning some matches, tough ones, even if in three sets, those are the most important matches.&quot;

(AFP)

Djokovic, the former four-time champion, was forced to finish his quarter-final over Juan Martin del Potro earlier in the day after their match was rained off late on Friday.

Novak Djokovic overcame having to play twice in a day before cruising into the final of the Rome Masters with a ruthless 6-1, 6-0 win over Dominic Thiem on Saturday. Djokovic, the former four-time champion, was forced to finish his quarter-final over Juan Martin del Potro earlier in the day after their match was rained off late on Friday. But the setback seemed only to inspire the 30-year-old Serbian second seed, as he set up what is expected to be a mouthwatering final, and first meeting, with Germany's Alexander Zverev. "It was my best performance of the year," said Djokovic after his 59-minute win over Thiem who had knocked out Rafael Nadal in the quarter-finals. Zverev, 20, became the youngest player in a decade to reach a Masters final when he clinched a gutsy 6-4, 6-7 (5/7), 6-1 win over big-serving American John Isner. Djokovic was the previous youngest Masters finalist, going all the way to the title in Miami as a 19-year-old in 2007. Zverev will climb to a new career high in the rankings at number 14 by reaching the final and would break into the top 10 with the title. "I don't look at these kind of stats, who is the youngest player to have a Masters 1000 title or things like this. I try to play match by match and try to improve," said Zverev, who fired 12 aces and 41 winners past the 32-year-old Isner. Thiem, beaten to the Madrid Masters title by Nadal last week, avenged his loss by dumping Spain's former seven-time Rome champion out in the quarters on Friday. But the Austrian's dream run was quickly brought to an end by a clinical Djokovic on Saturday as the Serbian took his record to 5-0 against the 23-year-old. In the WTA event, French Open champion Garbine Muguruza was forced to retire due to a neck injury from her semi-final against Ukraine's Elina Svitolina. The Spanish third seed was 1-4 down after just 22 minutes in the first set when she quit, handing the eighth-seeded Svitolina a place in Sunday's final against Romania's Simona Halep. Svitolina will chase a fourth title of the year after trophy triumphs in Taiwan, Dubai and Istanbul. Muguruza had needed three sets to beat Venus Williams in the quarter-finals on Friday night. "I didn't want to leave Rome without trying to play," said Muguruza. Sixth-seeded Halep, the champion in Madrid last weekend, reached her first final in Rome after sweeping aside Dutchwoman Kiki Bertens 7-5, 6-1 in her semi-final. "Sometimes a win over a top player gives you confidence," Halep said after her semi-final. "Sometimes the work you do before the tournaments gives you confidence that you are ready to go. Sometimes just winning some matches, tough ones, even if in three sets, those are the most important matches." (AFP)

Djokovic notches 6-1, 6-0 win over Dominic Thiem, sails into Rome Masters final

Novak Djokovic&#39;s preparations for his French Open title defence suffered another setback Friday when he was defeated by Belgium&#39;s David Goffin 6-2, 3-6, 7-5 in the Monte Carlo Masters quarter-finals.

The Serb saved four match points but slumped to his first loss to Goffin after five successive wins on a fifth match point, hindered by a time violation as he prepared to serve.

World number two Djokovic faced 17 break points and saved 13 in his frustrating marathon.

The 29-year-old Serb battled for two and three quarter hours against the 10th seeded Belgian, leaving Rafael Nadal to play under the floodlights against Argentine Diego Schwartzman.

Nadal is seeking a record tenth title at the Country Club and will be the favourite after Djokovic joined world number one Andy Murray and third seed Stan Wawrinka on the casualty list.

&quot;It&#39;s just unfortunate I missed my chances in the beginning of the third set to go a double break up,&quot; said Djokovic who had led 4-2 in the decider.

The Serb was angry over the playing conditions, made difficult by a sharp shaft of light shooting across the surface while most of the arena was in shade.&nbsp;

&quot;In the end, one side of the court was terrible, almost unplayable,&quot; he said.

&quot;I started slowly probably because I played two long matches. But I thought as the match progressed I was feeling okay.&nbsp;

&quot;I was physically fine, we had a lot of exchanges, a lot of rallies. David is playing very quick. You know, he&#39;s a fast player.

&quot;I thought I played very, very well for, you know, a set and a half, from the start of the second set. Then, there was that unfortunate game when I dropped my serve, the match turned around. I had my chances, I definitely did. I just didn&#39;t use them.&quot;

Murray&#39;s conqueror Albert Ramos-Vinolas scored his second upset in as many days, stunning fifth seeded Marin Cilic 6-2, 6-7 (5/7), 6-2.

He will next face French 11th seed Lucas Pouille, who beat Uruguay&#39;s Pablo Cuevas 6-0, 3-6, 7-5.

Pouille will come into his first Masters 1000 semi-final with a precise game plan.

&quot;Ramos is hitting hard, but he doesn&#39;t play fast. He doesn&#39;t like to be under pressure,&quot; said the Frenchman.

&quot;What I did in the first set today, I will also have to do tomorrow to make it difficult for him. I must not let him dictate from the baseline. I have to be the one dictating the points.&quot;

Ramos is also ready.

&quot;I know Pouille, he&#39;s a young player coming very strong. It will be super difficult,&quot; he said.

(AFP)

Goffin awaits the winner between nine-time champion Rafel Nadal and Diego Schwartzman

Novak Djokovic's preparations for his French Open title defence suffered another setback Friday when he was defeated by Belgium's David Goffin 6-2, 3-6, 7-5 in the Monte Carlo Masters quarter-finals. The Serb saved four match points but slumped to his first loss to Goffin after five successive wins on a fifth match point, hindered by a time violation as he prepared to serve. World number two Djokovic faced 17 break points and saved 13 in his frustrating marathon. The 29-year-old Serb battled for two and three quarter hours against the 10th seeded Belgian, leaving Rafael Nadal to play under the floodlights against Argentine Diego Schwartzman. Nadal is seeking a record tenth title at the Country Club and will be the favourite after Djokovic joined world number one Andy Murray and third seed Stan Wawrinka on the casualty list. "It's just unfortunate I missed my chances in the beginning of the third set to go a double break up," said Djokovic who had led 4-2 in the decider. The Serb was angry over the playing conditions, made difficult by a sharp shaft of light shooting across the surface while most of the arena was in shade. "In the end, one side of the court was terrible, almost unplayable," he said. "I started slowly probably because I played two long matches. But I thought as the match progressed I was feeling okay. "I was physically fine, we had a lot of exchanges, a lot of rallies. David is playing very quick. You know, he's a fast player. "I thought I played very, very well for, you know, a set and a half, from the start of the second set. Then, there was that unfortunate game when I dropped my serve, the match turned around. I had my chances, I definitely did. I just didn't use them." Murray's conqueror Albert Ramos-Vinolas scored his second upset in as many days, stunning fifth seeded Marin Cilic 6-2, 6-7 (5/7), 6-2. He will next face French 11th seed Lucas Pouille, who beat Uruguay's Pablo Cuevas 6-0, 3-6, 7-5. Pouille will come into his first Masters 1000 semi-final with a precise game plan. "Ramos is hitting hard, but he doesn't play fast. He doesn't like to be under pressure," said the Frenchman. "What I did in the first set today, I will also have to do tomorrow to make it difficult for him. I must not let him dictate from the baseline. I have to be the one dictating the points." Ramos is also ready. "I know Pouille, he's a young player coming very strong. It will be super difficult," he said. (AFP)

Monte Carlo Masters: Djokovic dumped out by Goffin

Nick Kyrgios ended three-time champion Novak Djokovic&#39;s reign at Indian Wells on Wednesday, toppling the world number two in the fourth round of the year&#39;s first Masters event.

The 21-year-old Australian triumphed 6-4, 7-6 (7/3), notching his second victory over Djokovic in less than two weeks after stunning the Serb in their first career meeting at Acapulco.

Djokovic had won 19 straight matches at Indian Wells in winning the title in 2014, 2015 and 2016. He also won the title in the California desert in 2008 and 2011.

Kyrgios will get a shot at another big name in the quarter-finals. He&#39;ll take on the winner of the fourth-round match between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. 
 
(AFP) 
&nbsp;

Kyrgios triumphed 6-4, 7-6 (7/3), notching his second victory over Djokovic in less than two weeks

Nick Kyrgios ended three-time champion Novak Djokovic's reign at Indian Wells on Wednesday, toppling the world number two in the fourth round of the year's first Masters event. The 21-year-old Australian triumphed 6-4, 7-6 (7/3), notching his second victory over Djokovic in less than two weeks after stunning the Serb in their first career meeting at Acapulco. Djokovic had won 19 straight matches at Indian Wells in winning the title in 2014, 2015 and 2016. He also won the title in the California desert in 2008 and 2011. Kyrgios will get a shot at another big name in the quarter-finals. He'll take on the winner of the fourth-round match between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. (AFP)

Nick Kyrgios beats defending champion Novak Djokovic at Indian Wells

Uzbek journeyman Denis Istomin pulled off an Australian Open upset for the ages on Thursday when he sent Novak&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;tumbling out of the second round of the grand slam the Serbian has all but dominated for the last seven years.

The 30-year-old world number 117 played the match of his life to hand the six-times champion only his second defeat in 41 matches at Melbourne Park since 2011 with a 7-6(8) 5-7 2-6 7-6(5) 6-4 second-round win on Rod Laver Arena.

Istomin, playing in his trademark fluorescent yellow glasses and bandana, let out a huge roar when the 12-times grand slam champion&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;sent a service return long to end an enthralling contest after four hours and 50 minutes.

&quot;All the credit to Denis for playing amazing, he deserved to win,&quot; said reigning championDjokovic&nbsp;after making his earliest exit at a grand slam since 2008.

&quot;I was not pleased with my performance. It was just one of days when you don&#39;t feel that great and the other player is really feeling the ball. That&#39;s sport.&quot;

Istomin, who needed to go to the Asia-Pacific qualifying tournament just to get a wildcard for his 11th Australian Open, was stunned by his own performance.

&quot;First of all I feel sorry for Novak. I was playing so good today,&quot; Istomin said in an on-court interview.

&quot;So much emotion on my mind so I cannot hold it you know but I want to say thanks very much for coming to support me.&quot;

To say the odds were stacked against the 117th-ranked Uzbek was an understatement.

Second seed&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;had won all five of their previous meetings, giving up just one set, and had lost to a player ranked outside the top 100 only once since 2010.

Istomin knew he would have to play the best tennis of his life to have even a chance of victory and he produced it in a captivating arm-wrestle of a contest.

Charging out of the gate, Istomin hit seven aces and 27 winners in the opener, taking the match to the world number two and prevailing when&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;hit a return long on his third set point in a 13-minute tiebreaker.

The onslaught continued in the second set, Istomin moving the&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;around the court and smashing winner after winner off his forehand.

Djokovic&nbsp;shouted in frustration, watched his first service success rate slide into the 60th percentile and called for the trainer after feeling a twinge in the back of his leg.

The tide looked to have turned, however, when the Serbian scrambled to save two set points in the second stanza before breaking the Uzbek immediately and serving out to even up the contest.

Djokovic&nbsp;whipped through the third set in a relatively rapid 45 minutes but Istomin, by now nursing his left thigh with an ice-pack at every changeover, would simply not fold.

&quot;I mean it was tough, since third set I get cramping in my leg so I don&#39;t know how I held on,&quot; added Istomin, whose reward for the biggest win of his career is a third-round meeting with Spaniard Pablo Carreno Busta.

Going for everything, the former world number 33 grabbed an early break in the fourth and, even after&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;broke back, raced to a 5-1 lead in the tiebreaker before sealing the set to send the match into a decider.

The crowd were expecting the famed&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;fight back in the final set but it was Istomin who ripped a backhand down the line to take an early break before playing some dazzling tennis to beat back every&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;assault and claim a famous win.

(Reuters)

Defending champion Novak Djokovic was beaten in five sets in the second round by Uzbek wildcard Denis Istomin

Uzbek journeyman Denis Istomin pulled off an Australian Open upset for the ages on Thursday when he sent Novak Djokovic tumbling out of the second round of the grand slam the Serbian has all but dominated for the last seven years. The 30-year-old world number 117 played the match of his life to hand the six-times champion only his second defeat in 41 matches at Melbourne Park since 2011 with a 7-6(8) 5-7 2-6 7-6(5) 6-4 second-round win on Rod Laver Arena. Istomin, playing in his trademark fluorescent yellow glasses and bandana, let out a huge roar when the 12-times grand slam champion Djokovic sent a service return long to end an enthralling contest after four hours and 50 minutes. "All the credit to Denis for playing amazing, he deserved to win," said reigning championDjokovic after making his earliest exit at a grand slam since 2008. "I was not pleased with my performance. It was just one of days when you don't feel that great and the other player is really feeling the ball. That's sport." Istomin, who needed to go to the Asia-Pacific qualifying tournament just to get a wildcard for his 11th Australian Open, was stunned by his own performance. "First of all I feel sorry for Novak. I was playing so good today," Istomin said in an on-court interview. "So much emotion on my mind so I cannot hold it you know but I want to say thanks very much for coming to support me." To say the odds were stacked against the 117th-ranked Uzbek was an understatement. Second seed Djokovic had won all five of their previous meetings, giving up just one set, and had lost to a player ranked outside the top 100 only once since 2010. Istomin knew he would have to play the best tennis of his life to have even a chance of victory and he produced it in a captivating arm-wrestle of a contest. Charging out of the gate, Istomin hit seven aces and 27 winners in the opener, taking the match to the world number two and prevailing when Djokovic hit a return long on his third set point in a 13-minute tiebreaker. The onslaught continued in the second set, Istomin moving the Djokovic around the court and smashing winner after winner off his forehand. Djokovic shouted in frustration, watched his first service success rate slide into the 60th percentile and called for the trainer after feeling a twinge in the back of his leg. The tide looked to have turned, however, when the Serbian scrambled to save two set points in the second stanza before breaking the Uzbek immediately and serving out to even up the contest. Djokovic whipped through the third set in a relatively rapid 45 minutes but Istomin, by now nursing his left thigh with an ice-pack at every changeover, would simply not fold. "I mean it was tough, since third set I get cramping in my leg so I don't know how I held on," added Istomin, whose reward for the biggest win of his career is a third-round meeting with Spaniard Pablo Carreno Busta. Going for everything, the former world number 33 grabbed an early break in the fourth and, even after Djokovic broke back, raced to a 5-1 lead in the tiebreaker before sealing the set to send the match into a decider. The crowd were expecting the famed Djokovic fight back in the final set but it was Istomin who ripped a backhand down the line to take an early break before playing some dazzling tennis to beat back every Djokovic assault and claim a famous win. (Reuters)

Defending champion Djokovic knocked out of Australian Open

Novak Djokovic may have cursed the draw for throwing up Fernando Verdasco as the first opponent in his Australian Open defence but the tough match-up against the Spanish giant-killer ultimately proved a blessing in disguise.&nbsp;The Serb launched his bid for a record seventh title at Melbourne Park with an impressive 6-1 7-6(4) 6-2 win over the man who knocked Rafa Nadal out in the first round of last year&#39;s tournament.

Djokovic was forced to save five match points to beat Verdasco at the recent Qatar Open and was broken twice during a thrilling second set under the lights of Rod Laver Arena.&nbsp;But the second seed defended brilliantly to defuse the veteran lefthander&#39;s power game and closed out the two-hour 20-minute clash.

&quot;I knew that winning the second set would be crucial because I definitely didn&#39;t want to give him wings,&quot; Djokovic told reporters after setting up a second round clash against Uzbek Denis Istomin.

&quot;I didn&#39;t want to have him start swinging at the ball, as he knows. I don&#39;t know how he felt about the draw. But I personally think that I could have drawn... an easier player. But nothing is easy obviously,&quot; Djokovic said.

&quot;From one perspective it was good that I got to have the very tough first round match, because it made me prepare better and kind of approach this match and the tournament with the right intensity right from the blocks, right from the first point,&quot; Djokovic felt after the match.

Djokovic has owned Melbourne Park for almost a decade and his continued reign seemed assured as he roared to a 5-0 lead in the first set. Verdasco felled Nadal in five sets last year by swinging at every ball and his aggression was rewarded when he broke Djokovic twice early in the second.

But he was furious with himself for letting the chances slip, cursing in Spanish and bouncing his racket off the court in disgust. He double-faulted at 4-4 to give Djokovic two break points but saved them both before holding serve, leaving the Serb yelling out his own frustrations from his chair at the change of ends.

It took a moment of Verdasco madness to open the door, the Spaniard wafting a sliced backhand well beyond the baseline to concede two set points. Djokovic wrapped up the tiebreak with a monster serve and sprinted away in the third set. Beaten emphatically in a string of baseline skirmishes, Verdasco fell behind 4-1 and he threw his racket at his chair.

It felt more like a towel being tossed into a ring as there was no stopping Djokovic in full flight.

&quot;It feels like home,&quot; said the Serb on the court where he won his sixth Australian Open title a year ago.

&quot;Already in the last couple of weeks, I was really eager to come back to the court and get into the competitive mode, just be back in the office,&quot; the Australian Open champion declared.

(Reuters)

Defending champion Novak Djokovic will now take on Uzbekistan's Denis Istomin in the second round

Novak Djokovic may have cursed the draw for throwing up Fernando Verdasco as the first opponent in his Australian Open defence but the tough match-up against the Spanish giant-killer ultimately proved a blessing in disguise. The Serb launched his bid for a record seventh title at Melbourne Park with an impressive 6-1 7-6(4) 6-2 win over the man who knocked Rafa Nadal out in the first round of last year's tournament. Djokovic was forced to save five match points to beat Verdasco at the recent Qatar Open and was broken twice during a thrilling second set under the lights of Rod Laver Arena. But the second seed defended brilliantly to defuse the veteran lefthander's power game and closed out the two-hour 20-minute clash. "I knew that winning the second set would be crucial because I definitely didn't want to give him wings," Djokovic told reporters after setting up a second round clash against Uzbek Denis Istomin. "I didn't want to have him start swinging at the ball, as he knows. I don't know how he felt about the draw. But I personally think that I could have drawn... an easier player. But nothing is easy obviously," Djokovic said. "From one perspective it was good that I got to have the very tough first round match, because it made me prepare better and kind of approach this match and the tournament with the right intensity right from the blocks, right from the first point," Djokovic felt after the match. Djokovic has owned Melbourne Park for almost a decade and his continued reign seemed assured as he roared to a 5-0 lead in the first set. Verdasco felled Nadal in five sets last year by swinging at every ball and his aggression was rewarded when he broke Djokovic twice early in the second. But he was furious with himself for letting the chances slip, cursing in Spanish and bouncing his racket off the court in disgust. He double-faulted at 4-4 to give Djokovic two break points but saved them both before holding serve, leaving the Serb yelling out his own frustrations from his chair at the change of ends. It took a moment of Verdasco madness to open the door, the Spaniard wafting a sliced backhand well beyond the baseline to concede two set points. Djokovic wrapped up the tiebreak with a monster serve and sprinted away in the third set. Beaten emphatically in a string of baseline skirmishes, Verdasco fell behind 4-1 and he threw his racket at his chair. It felt more like a towel being tossed into a ring as there was no stopping Djokovic in full flight. "It feels like home," said the Serb on the court where he won his sixth Australian Open title a year ago. "Already in the last couple of weeks, I was really eager to come back to the court and get into the competitive mode, just be back in the office," the Australian Open champion declared. (Reuters)

Australian Open: Djokovic beats Verdasco to enter second round

Tennis star Rafael Nadal said the emergence of a new generation is just what tennis needs, while welcoming back old foe Roger Federer to help him keep them at bay.

The Spanish great, a 14-time Grand Slam champion, is on the comeback trail after his 2016 season was ruined by a wrist problem which has seen him slip to nine in the world.&nbsp;Swiss great Federer is also easing his way back after six months out with a knee injury, with both of them keen to return to winning ways at the big tournaments.

They will have their work cut out at the opening Grand Slam of the year at Melbourne Park next week with not just Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic to contend with but an emerging new breed.&nbsp;Leading the pack are the likes of Austria&#39;s Dominic Thiem, Germany&#39;s Alex Zverev and Australia&#39;s Nick Kyrgios.

Nadal, 30, said it was good for the game to see younger players starting to make their mark.&nbsp;&quot;These guys are doing well,&quot; he said in The Australian newspaper.

&quot;It&#39;s great to have a new generation of fantastic players there and that&#39;s good for tennis. Tennis needs it. People sometimes get bored to see the same players all the time.&quot;

While excited by the young guns, Nadal is not yet ready to hand over the baton, believing he can still compete at the top level despite the last of his major titles coming at the French Open in 2014. The Spanish star&nbsp;he is pleased to see Federer, 35, also back in the fold and playing well.

&quot;The good thing is that Roger is back on tour after probably his first important injury,&quot; Nadal said.&nbsp;&quot;That`s tough but he looks great. He`s played some good matches there in Perth at the Hopman Cup&nbsp;so I&#39;m very happy for him.&quot;

After opening his season in Doha for seven of the past eight years, Nadal instead opted this year to begin at the Brisbane International in a bid to better adapt to Australian conditions.&nbsp;But he lost in the quarter-finals last week to big-serving Milos Raonic.

Nadal admitted he may not hit his best form until later in the year.&nbsp;&quot;I think that I had a great off-season so I am excited about these next few months,&quot; he said.

&quot;You cannot say something about how Roger is, how I am, in just two weeks.&nbsp;In Melbourne anything could happen, but I give myself a little bit more time, three months, and after Miami, let&#39;s see how I am,&quot; he added, referring to the Miami Open.

(AFP)

Tennis star Rafael Nadal said it was good for the game to see younger players starting to make their mark

Tennis star Rafael Nadal said the emergence of a new generation is just what tennis needs, while welcoming back old foe Roger Federer to help him keep them at bay. The Spanish great, a 14-time Grand Slam champion, is on the comeback trail after his 2016 season was ruined by a wrist problem which has seen him slip to nine in the world. Swiss great Federer is also easing his way back after six months out with a knee injury, with both of them keen to return to winning ways at the big tournaments. They will have their work cut out at the opening Grand Slam of the year at Melbourne Park next week with not just Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic to contend with but an emerging new breed. Leading the pack are the likes of Austria's Dominic Thiem, Germany's Alex Zverev and Australia's Nick Kyrgios. Nadal, 30, said it was good for the game to see younger players starting to make their mark. "These guys are doing well," he said in The Australian newspaper. "It's great to have a new generation of fantastic players there and that's good for tennis. Tennis needs it. People sometimes get bored to see the same players all the time." While excited by the young guns, Nadal is not yet ready to hand over the baton, believing he can still compete at the top level despite the last of his major titles coming at the French Open in 2014. The Spanish star he is pleased to see Federer, 35, also back in the fold and playing well. "The good thing is that Roger is back on tour after probably his first important injury," Nadal said. "That`s tough but he looks great. He`s played some good matches there in Perth at the Hopman Cup so I'm very happy for him." After opening his season in Doha for seven of the past eight years, Nadal instead opted this year to begin at the Brisbane International in a bid to better adapt to Australian conditions. But he lost in the quarter-finals last week to big-serving Milos Raonic. Nadal admitted he may not hit his best form until later in the year. "I think that I had a great off-season so I am excited about these next few months," he said. "You cannot say something about how Roger is, how I am, in just two weeks. In Melbourne anything could happen, but I give myself a little bit more time, three months, and after Miami, let's see how I am," he added, referring to the Miami Open. (AFP)

New generation players good for tennis: Nadal

Roger Federer whipping a forehand down-the-line off Pete Sampras&#39; famous serve during Wimbledon 2001 and sinking to the ground in jubilation will go down as a momentous occasion in tennis folklore for more reasons than one. Even though it took the Swiss a couple of years after that to consolidate his big arrival, the world knew only too well that the game&#39;s next grand daddy was here.

From 2004 to 2007, Federer showcased a type of dominance similar to the one achieved by the great Rod Laver in the 1960s. Notching up a staggering 11 Grand Slams through that period of four years, the genius from Basel was arguably the greatest active sportsperson at that time.

However, for all his success on grass and hard courts, Federer was never quite able to stamp his authority on clay. And the reason for that, of course, was tennis&#39; next big thing Rafael Nadal. The Spaniard&#39;s victories in nine out of the ten French Opens from 2005 to 2014 is testament to his supremacy on the slow, dusty surface. The passing of the baton from Federer to Nadal, though, happened after the latter&#39;s victory in the 2008 Wimbledon final, probably the greatest match in tennis history.

From that year on, through to 2010, the Mallorcan won six Majors and an Olympic singles Gold medal, along with ending Federer&#39;s record four-and-a-half year reign at the top of the rankings.

A physically brutal game, leading to a damning knee injury, spelt doom for Nadal&#39;s stay at the top of the rankings. And that paved the way for Novak Djokovic to take centre-stage. The Serbian had already made a mark by winning the Australian Open in 2008, but 2011 was the year when he truly came into his own. Winning all the Grand Slams, apart from the French Open, Djokovic stitched together an astonishing 41-match winning streak at the beginning of the season.

In the years to come, the Serb raced to the top of the rankings, stocking up a tally of 12 Majors, and opened up a sizable gap between him and the rest of the field. What he also did was establish himself as the single dominant force in the, now prevalent, &#39;Big Four&#39; of the men&#39;s game.

This was possible partly because of the fact that, up until then, the fourth wheel of this club hadn&#39;t really done much to stake his claim at the top in the first place.

Andy Murray, who was born a week before Djokovic, came on to the stage with the hopes of an entire nation riding on his shoulders. Great Britain hadn&#39;t seen a Grand Slam champion since Fred Perry in 1936, but had seen enough potential in Murray to pin all their hopes on him. But their expectations weren&#39;t matched until Murray&#39;s 100th career Grand Slam match, when he finally broke through the shackles and laid his hands on the US Open trophy in 2012. The Scot backed that up with a memorable Wimbledon triumph in 2013, followed by an Olympic Gold medal on the same hallowed grass the next month.

However, those victories proved to be a flash in the pan as Murray failed to win a single Major for the next three years. Having turned pro in 2005, he spent the better part of his career living in the shadows of Federer, Nadal and Djokovic. No one ever doubted his abilities, but the results never matched up to the talent. Was it the simple case of Murray&#39;s peers being better than him, or was his infamous temperament getting the better of him?

The year 2016, though, has finally given real hope to his supporters. After bulldozing through the first half of the season, Djokovic&#39;s form took a sudden turn for the worst during Wimbledon where he was blasted off the court by American Sam Querry, paving the way for Murray to claim his second All England title. The Brit carried that form through to Rio, where he became the first tennis player, male of female, to win a second Olympic singles Gold medal. As of today, Murray is sitting on an unbeaten 24-match winning streak, after his victories in the Shanghai Masters, Paris Masters and the year-ending ATP World Tour Finals in London.

Murray&#39;s domination of Djokovic in Sunday&#39;s ATP Finals is hugely significant. The two right-handers, having grown up playing together in the junior circuit, share one of modern tennis&#39; biggest rivalries, albeit, one-sided. The duo have contested 35 times in their careers and the Serbian leads the head-to-head by 24-11. Be it the ATP 1000 Masters or the Grand Slams, Djokovic has largely had the measure of Murray. Sunday&#39;s lop-sided result, thus, could be an important mental victory for the Scot and a sign of things to come.

If one glances through the annals, one will find that most great players, including, Federer, have sustained sudden, inexplicable falls from sovereignty. Just when you start believing that they&#39;re untouchable, something snaps. Is it Djokovic&#39;s turn now?

&quot;If you had told me six months ago that this would even be an issue, I would have said you&#39;re crazy,&quot; American legend John McEnroe said of Djokovic&#39;s sudden vulnerability to BBC.

With Federer making a comeback in 2017 after sitting out the second half of this season with an injury, Nadal struggling to find lost form since returning from injury, young guns like Milos Raonic and Dominic Thiem not quite arriving yet, and Djokovic&#39;s career entering an uncharted territory, now is the time for Murray&#39;s era to finally arrive.

(This articlle first appeared on DNA)

A glance through the past decade-and-a-half of men's tennis' power game

Roger Federer whipping a forehand down-the-line off Pete Sampras' famous serve during Wimbledon 2001 and sinking to the ground in jubilation will go down as a momentous occasion in tennis folklore for more reasons than one. Even though it took the Swiss a couple of years after that to consolidate his big arrival, the world knew only too well that the game's next grand daddy was here. From 2004 to 2007, Federer showcased a type of dominance similar to the one achieved by the great Rod Laver in the 1960s. Notching up a staggering 11 Grand Slams through that period of four years, the genius from Basel was arguably the greatest active sportsperson at that time. However, for all his success on grass and hard courts, Federer was never quite able to stamp his authority on clay. And the reason for that, of course, was tennis' next big thing Rafael Nadal. The Spaniard's victories in nine out of the ten French Opens from 2005 to 2014 is testament to his supremacy on the slow, dusty surface. The passing of the baton from Federer to Nadal, though, happened after the latter's victory in the 2008 Wimbledon final, probably the greatest match in tennis history. From that year on, through to 2010, the Mallorcan won six Majors and an Olympic singles Gold medal, along with ending Federer's record four-and-a-half year reign at the top of the rankings. A physically brutal game, leading to a damning knee injury, spelt doom for Nadal's stay at the top of the rankings. And that paved the way for Novak Djokovic to take centre-stage. The Serbian had already made a mark by winning the Australian Open in 2008, but 2011 was the year when he truly came into his own. Winning all the Grand Slams, apart from the French Open, Djokovic stitched together an astonishing 41-match winning streak at the beginning of the season. In the years to come, the Serb raced to the top of the rankings, stocking up a tally of 12 Majors, and opened up a sizable gap between him and the rest of the field. What he also did was establish himself as the single dominant force in the, now prevalent, 'Big Four' of the men's game. This was possible partly because of the fact that, up until then, the fourth wheel of this club hadn't really done much to stake his claim at the top in the first place. Andy Murray, who was born a week before Djokovic, came on to the stage with the hopes of an entire nation riding on his shoulders. Great Britain hadn't seen a Grand Slam champion since Fred Perry in 1936, but had seen enough potential in Murray to pin all their hopes on him. But their expectations weren't matched until Murray's 100th career Grand Slam match, when he finally broke through the shackles and laid his hands on the US Open trophy in 2012. The Scot backed that up with a memorable Wimbledon triumph in 2013, followed by an Olympic Gold medal on the same hallowed grass the next month. However, those victories proved to be a flash in the pan as Murray failed to win a single Major for the next three years. Having turned pro in 2005, he spent the better part of his career living in the shadows of Federer, Nadal and Djokovic. No one ever doubted his abilities, but the results never matched up to the talent. Was it the simple case of Murray's peers being better than him, or was his infamous temperament getting the better of him? The year 2016, though, has finally given real hope to his supporters. After bulldozing through the first half of the season, Djokovic's form took a sudden turn for the worst during Wimbledon where he was blasted off the court by American Sam Querry, paving the way for Murray to claim his second All England title. The Brit carried that form through to Rio, where he became the first tennis player, male of female, to win a second Olympic singles Gold medal. As of today, Murray is sitting on an unbeaten 24-match winning streak, after his victories in the Shanghai Masters, Paris Masters and the year-ending ATP World Tour Finals in London. Murray's domination of Djokovic in Sunday's ATP Finals is hugely significant. The two right-handers, having grown up playing together in the junior circuit, share one of modern tennis' biggest rivalries, albeit, one-sided. The duo have contested 35 times in their careers and the Serbian leads the head-to-head by 24-11. Be it the ATP 1000 Masters or the Grand Slams, Djokovic has largely had the measure of Murray. Sunday's lop-sided result, thus, could be an important mental victory for the Scot and a sign of things to come. If one glances through the annals, one will find that most great players, including, Federer, have sustained sudden, inexplicable falls from sovereignty. Just when you start believing that they're untouchable, something snaps. Is it Djokovic's turn now? "If you had told me six months ago that this would even be an issue, I would have said you're crazy," American legend John McEnroe said of Djokovic's sudden vulnerability to BBC. With Federer making a comeback in 2017 after sitting out the second half of this season with an injury, Nadal struggling to find lost form since returning from injury, young guns like Milos Raonic and Dominic Thiem not quite arriving yet, and Djokovic's career entering an uncharted territory, now is the time for Murray's era to finally arrive. (This articlle first appeared on DNA)

After Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, has Andy Murray's time finally come?

World number two Novak Djokovic dispatched Japan&#39;s Kei Nishikori to set up a summit clash with Britain&#39;s Andy Murray at the ATP Tour Finals in London.

Earlier in the day, Andy Murray edged out Milos Raonic 5-7, 7-6 (7/5), 7-6 (11/9)&nbsp;to reach the final.

Sunday&#39;s winner between Djokovi and Murray will determine who will finish the year as the world number one.

Murray has his dog in the fight

First up on London&#39;s O2 Arena was the match-up between Murray and world number four Milos Raonic.

The edge-of-the-seat match lasted for three hours and 39 minutes before the more experienced Murray saw off his rival.

This was the longest match in&nbsp;Tour Finals history -- eclipsing the record mark set when&nbsp;Murray&nbsp;beat Nishikori in three hours and 20 minutes on Wednesday.

While&nbsp;Murray&#39;s body has been pushed to its limits this week,&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;has enjoyed smooth progress to the final and, unlike his opponent, the world number two will be well rested following his 67-minute demolition of Nishikori.

Murray, bidding to win the Tour Finals for the first time in his maiden final appearance, acknowledged he is feeling the strain of his gruelling run.

&quot;It was obviously unbelievably tough. I played some great points and managed to get the break at the end,&quot;&nbsp;Murray&nbsp;said.

&quot;This is one of the hardest matches I&#39;ve played indoors. I didn&#39;t expect to play a long one with someone with a serve like Milos.&nbsp;

&quot;I&#39;m tired. I&#39;ve played so much tennis over the last few months. I&#39;ll give it my best effort, the best of what I have.&quot;

(WION with inputs from AFP)

&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic dropped just two games against Nishikori, hours after Andy Murray eked out a narrow win over Raonic

World number two Novak Djokovic dispatched Japan's Kei Nishikori to set up a summit clash with Britain's Andy Murray at the ATP Tour Finals in London. Earlier in the day, Andy Murray edged out Milos Raonic 5-7, 7-6 (7/5), 7-6 (11/9) to reach the final. Sunday's winner between Djokovi and Murray will determine who will finish the year as the world number one. Murray has his dog in the fight First up on London's O2 Arena was the match-up between Murray and world number four Milos Raonic. The edge-of-the-seat match lasted for three hours and 39 minutes before the more experienced Murray saw off his rival. This was the longest match in Tour Finals history -- eclipsing the record mark set when Murray beat Nishikori in three hours and 20 minutes on Wednesday. While Murray's body has been pushed to its limits this week, Djokovic has enjoyed smooth progress to the final and, unlike his opponent, the world number two will be well rested following his 67-minute demolition of Nishikori. Murray, bidding to win the Tour Finals for the first time in his maiden final appearance, acknowledged he is feeling the strain of his gruelling run. "It was obviously unbelievably tough. I played some great points and managed to get the break at the end," Murray said. "This is one of the hardest matches I've played indoors. I didn't expect to play a long one with someone with a serve like Milos. "I'm tired. I've played so much tennis over the last few months. I'll give it my best effort, the best of what I have." (WION with inputs from AFP)

Djokovic beats Nishikori to set up top-dog tussle with Murray

Andy Murray swept into the semi-finals of the ATP Tour Finals with a 6-4, 6-2 victory over Stan Wawrinka on Friday as the world number one remained on course for a final showdown against Novak Djokovic.

Murray brushed aside Wawrinka in 86 minutes at London&#39;s O2 Arena to ensure he finished top of his group and avoided a last four clash with Djokovic.

Instead, the 29-year-old will face Canada&#39;s Milos Raonic in Saturday&#39;s semi-finals.

Wawrinka&#39;s defeat means Japan&#39;s Kei Nishikori qualifies as runner-up to Murray and he takes on defending champion Djokovic in the other semi-final.

Murray ended Djokovic&#39;s 122-week reign at the top of the rankings two weeks ago, but to guarantee finishing 2016 in pole position, he must win the Tour Finals for the first time.

He looks in the mood to do just that on the evidence of a ruthless performance against US Open champion Wawrinka, which took his winning streak to 22 matches and equalled his career best run earlier this year.

&quot;The first set was tight. There weren&#39;t many chances. I managed to get the break late in the set,&quot; Murray said.

&quot;In the second set I&#39;d already qualified for the semis so maybe it was easier for me to play more free than him. Stan is one of the best players in the world. When he&#39;s at his best he&#39;s unplayable, but I played a solid match. I&#39;m happy to get to the semis.&quot;

This has been an incredible year for Murray, who has won Wimbledon for the second time, claimed a second Olympic gold medal and become a father for the first time.

To finish it on another high, Murray must repeat this year&#39;s Wimbledon and Queen&#39;s final triumphs against the big serving Raonic.

That would set up a possible winner-takes-all meeting with his old rival Djokovic to determine who secures the Tour Finals title and the world number one ranking.

(AFP)

Murray will take on defending champion Djokovic in the finals if he ensures a win against Canada's Raonic in the semi-finals

Andy Murray swept into the semi-finals of the ATP Tour Finals with a 6-4, 6-2 victory over Stan Wawrinka on Friday as the world number one remained on course for a final showdown against Novak Djokovic. Murray brushed aside Wawrinka in 86 minutes at London's O2 Arena to ensure he finished top of his group and avoided a last four clash with Djokovic. Instead, the 29-year-old will face Canada's Milos Raonic in Saturday's semi-finals. Wawrinka's defeat means Japan's Kei Nishikori qualifies as runner-up to Murray and he takes on defending champion Djokovic in the other semi-final. Murray ended Djokovic's 122-week reign at the top of the rankings two weeks ago, but to guarantee finishing 2016 in pole position, he must win the Tour Finals for the first time. He looks in the mood to do just that on the evidence of a ruthless performance against US Open champion Wawrinka, which took his winning streak to 22 matches and equalled his career best run earlier this year. "The first set was tight. There weren't many chances. I managed to get the break late in the set," Murray said. "In the second set I'd already qualified for the semis so maybe it was easier for me to play more free than him. Stan is one of the best players in the world. When he's at his best he's unplayable, but I played a solid match. I'm happy to get to the semis." This has been an incredible year for Murray, who has won Wimbledon for the second time, claimed a second Olympic gold medal and become a father for the first time. To finish it on another high, Murray must repeat this year's Wimbledon and Queen's final triumphs against the big serving Raonic. That would set up a possible winner-takes-all meeting with his old rival Djokovic to determine who secures the Tour Finals title and the world number one ranking. (AFP)

Tennis: Murray sweeps into semi-finals of ATP Tour Finals

Defending champion Novak Djokovic trounced stand-in David Goffin 6-1, 6-2 for a clean sweep of his group at the ATP World Tour Finals on Thursday but spiced up a leisurely afternoon workout by picking a row with the umpire.

The world number two, who will be joined in the last four by Milos Raonic after the Canadian beat Austrian Dominic Thiem 7-6(5), 6-3, began the week at London&#39;s O2 Arena quarrelling with a reporter and despite being relatively untroubled on court, there has been an edginess about the 12-times grand slam champion.

It surfaced again against Goffin, who pocketed $179,000 for his 69-minute cameo appearance having stepped in to replace Gael Monfils who withdrew citing a rib injury.

While serving at 3-1 the Serb was given a time violation warning by chair umpire Fergus Murphy and let rip at the changeover.

&quot;You have no clue about the game,&quot; an irate Djokovic told Murphy before turning to continue the debate with tournament director Tom Barnes who was hovering nearby.

Djokovic&#39;s complaint that Murphy had punished his first transgression rather than offer a quiet word seemed fair enough, although his reaction was out of context in a match that lacked any kind of nervous tension.

There was more at stake later, when Raonic, who did not face a single break point, became the first Canadian to reach the last four when he downed Thiem in straight sets.

There were no breaks in the opening set but Raonic stole his opponent&#39;s serve in the first game of the second and did not look back, ending the contest on his second match point when Thiem netted a backhand.

Belgium world number 11 Goffin had been hanging around all week in case of a withdrawal. He tried his best to make a match of it but looked off the pace from the moment he double-faulted to give Djokovic his first break in the fourth game.

&quot;Yesterday I was feeling a bit like I was on holiday,&quot; Goffin, who would have received a cool $100,000 even if he had not been required for action, told reporters.

&quot;All of a sudden someone tells you-you have to play in front of 15,000 people against Novak.&quot;

It was poor value for the O2 Arena crowd who probably expected something more competitive, not that Djokovic was too concerned. He was able to conserve energy for what could yet be a Sunday showdown with Andy Murray, the man who ended his 122-week reign as world number one last week.

After losing a colossal points lead over the Briton since beating him to win the French Open, Djokovic is now two wins away from grabbing it back.

He bridled at suggestions that it would be a surprise if he did achieve that by claiming a fifth successive London title.

&quot;I guess I do not have the same perception of surprise as you do,&quot; the 29-year-old said when asked the question. &quot;To me, it wouldn&#39;t be a surprise.&quot;

Djokovic also shed light on his row with Murphy which was drowned out by blaring music in the arena.

&quot;I accept that I&#39;m one of the players that takes the most time,&quot; he said. &quot;But I think it&#39;s fair, correct and respectful towards a player that if you go over the first time, you at least get a head&#39;s up.

&quot;That&#39;s all I&#39;m asking for, to be honest.&quot;

With wins already against Thiem, Raonic, and Goffin, Djokovic has now won 21 of his last 22 matches at the tournament.

Who he faces in the semi-finals is still to be decided.

Murray is favourite to win the John McEnroe group and so avoid Djokovic but should he lose to Stan Wawrinka on Friday he could finish runner-up. Kei Nishikori is also a possibility.

&quot;As a player, all you can wish for is that everything is in your hands,&quot; said Djokovic.

(Reuters)

Defending champion Djokovic trounced stand-in Goffin 6-1, 6-2 for a clean sweep of his group at the ATP World Tour Finals on Thursday

Defending champion Novak Djokovic trounced stand-in David Goffin 6-1, 6-2 for a clean sweep of his group at the ATP World Tour Finals on Thursday but spiced up a leisurely afternoon workout by picking a row with the umpire. The world number two, who will be joined in the last four by Milos Raonic after the Canadian beat Austrian Dominic Thiem 7-6(5), 6-3, began the week at London's O2 Arena quarrelling with a reporter and despite being relatively untroubled on court, there has been an edginess about the 12-times grand slam champion. It surfaced again against Goffin, who pocketed $179,000 for his 69-minute cameo appearance having stepped in to replace Gael Monfils who withdrew citing a rib injury. While serving at 3-1 the Serb was given a time violation warning by chair umpire Fergus Murphy and let rip at the changeover. "You have no clue about the game," an irate Djokovic told Murphy before turning to continue the debate with tournament director Tom Barnes who was hovering nearby. Djokovic's complaint that Murphy had punished his first transgression rather than offer a quiet word seemed fair enough, although his reaction was out of context in a match that lacked any kind of nervous tension. There was more at stake later, when Raonic, who did not face a single break point, became the first Canadian to reach the last four when he downed Thiem in straight sets. There were no breaks in the opening set but Raonic stole his opponent's serve in the first game of the second and did not look back, ending the contest on his second match point when Thiem netted a backhand. Belgium world number 11 Goffin had been hanging around all week in case of a withdrawal. He tried his best to make a match of it but looked off the pace from the moment he double-faulted to give Djokovic his first break in the fourth game. "Yesterday I was feeling a bit like I was on holiday," Goffin, who would have received a cool $100,000 even if he had not been required for action, told reporters. "All of a sudden someone tells you-you have to play in front of 15,000 people against Novak." It was poor value for the O2 Arena crowd who probably expected something more competitive, not that Djokovic was too concerned. He was able to conserve energy for what could yet be a Sunday showdown with Andy Murray, the man who ended his 122-week reign as world number one last week. After losing a colossal points lead over the Briton since beating him to win the French Open, Djokovic is now two wins away from grabbing it back. He bridled at suggestions that it would be a surprise if he did achieve that by claiming a fifth successive London title. "I guess I do not have the same perception of surprise as you do," the 29-year-old said when asked the question. "To me, it wouldn't be a surprise." Djokovic also shed light on his row with Murphy which was drowned out by blaring music in the arena. "I accept that I'm one of the players that takes the most time," he said. "But I think it's fair, correct and respectful towards a player that if you go over the first time, you at least get a head's up. "That's all I'm asking for, to be honest." With wins already against Thiem, Raonic, and Goffin, Djokovic has now won 21 of his last 22 matches at the tournament. Who he faces in the semi-finals is still to be decided. Murray is favourite to win the John McEnroe group and so avoid Djokovic but should he lose to Stan Wawrinka on Friday he could finish runner-up. Kei Nishikori is also a possibility. "As a player, all you can wish for is that everything is in your hands," said Djokovic. (Reuters)

ATP Finals: Djokovic thrashes Goffin, picks row with umpire

Novak Djokovic crushed David Goffin 6-1, 6-2 at the ATP Tour Finals&nbsp;on Thursday&nbsp;as the world number two kept his foot on the gas in the race to finish the year atop the world rankings.

Djokovic had already qualified for the semi-finals as group winner, but the Serb was keen to keep the momentum going in his bid to overhaul world number one Andy Murray and he took just 69 minutes to demolish Goffin at London&#39;s O2 Arena.

The 29-year-old has been in a prolonged slump since winning the French Open for the first time in June, sparking rumours about his private life and questions about his recent involvement with a &#39;spiritual guru&#39; as he lost the top ranking to Murray.

But the decline is all relative as Djokovic has now won 21 of his last 22 matches at the Tour Finals, keeping him on course to win the tournament for a fifth successive year and record-equalling sixth time in total.

It is also the fourth time in the last five years that Djokovic has won all three of his group matches at the Tour Finals.

Djokovic is now 70 points ahead of Murray in the ATP&#39;s &#39;as it stands&#39; rankings, although he already knew winning the tournament would&nbsp;give him the year-end pole position whatever happened against Goffin.

Tour Finals debutant Dominic Thiem and Wimbledon finalist Milos Raonic meet later&nbsp;on Thursday&nbsp;in a shoot-out to determine who qualifies for the last four alongside Djokovic.

Murray faces Stan Wawrinka in his last group match&nbsp;on Friday&nbsp;knowing a victory would guarantee he qualifies as group winner, thus avoiding a clash with Djokovic before the final.

Goffin was a late replacement for the already eliminated Gael Monfils, who pulled out of his last group match to avoid aggravating the rib injury that has troubled him for several weeks.

The Belgian, up to a career high 11th in the world rankings, had been paid &pound;80,000 ($99,000) to hang around the O2 Arena all week as one of the tournament&#39;s on-call substitute players, but even that sum might not have made up for acting as a punch bag for Djokovic.

Djokovic had won all four of his previous encounters with Goffin and he quickly took control again with a break in the fourth game of the first set.

Not for the first time this week, Djokovic cut a tetchy, brooding figure and after being given a time violation for taking too long between serves he had an animated conversation with both the umpire and tournament supervisor as he complained about not being given a warning first.

Controlling his emotions was proving tricky, but Djokovic was in complete command of his play and he broke again to take the first set with ease.

Djokovic was in ruthless mood and breaks in the third and fifth games of the second set effectively ended the contest.

(AFP)

World number two Novak Djokovic dropped just three games to top his group

Novak Djokovic crushed David Goffin 6-1, 6-2 at the ATP Tour Finals on Thursday as the world number two kept his foot on the gas in the race to finish the year atop the world rankings. Djokovic had already qualified for the semi-finals as group winner, but the Serb was keen to keep the momentum going in his bid to overhaul world number one Andy Murray and he took just 69 minutes to demolish Goffin at London's O2 Arena. The 29-year-old has been in a prolonged slump since winning the French Open for the first time in June, sparking rumours about his private life and questions about his recent involvement with a 'spiritual guru' as he lost the top ranking to Murray. But the decline is all relative as Djokovic has now won 21 of his last 22 matches at the Tour Finals, keeping him on course to win the tournament for a fifth successive year and record-equalling sixth time in total. It is also the fourth time in the last five years that Djokovic has won all three of his group matches at the Tour Finals. Djokovic is now 70 points ahead of Murray in the ATP's 'as it stands' rankings, although he already knew winning the tournament would give him the year-end pole position whatever happened against Goffin. Tour Finals debutant Dominic Thiem and Wimbledon finalist Milos Raonic meet later on Thursday in a shoot-out to determine who qualifies for the last four alongside Djokovic. Murray faces Stan Wawrinka in his last group match on Friday knowing a victory would guarantee he qualifies as group winner, thus avoiding a clash with Djokovic before the final. Goffin was a late replacement for the already eliminated Gael Monfils, who pulled out of his last group match to avoid aggravating the rib injury that has troubled him for several weeks. The Belgian, up to a career high 11th in the world rankings, had been paid £80,000 ($99,000) to hang around the O2 Arena all week as one of the tournament's on-call substitute players, but even that sum might not have made up for acting as a punch bag for Djokovic. Djokovic had won all four of his previous encounters with Goffin and he quickly took control again with a break in the fourth game of the first set. Not for the first time this week, Djokovic cut a tetchy, brooding figure and after being given a time violation for taking too long between serves he had an animated conversation with both the umpire and tournament supervisor as he complained about not being given a warning first. Controlling his emotions was proving tricky, but Djokovic was in complete command of his play and he broke again to take the first set with ease. Djokovic was in ruthless mood and breaks in the third and fifth games of the second set effectively ended the contest. (AFP)

Tour Finals: Djokovic beats Goffin in straight sets to keep pressure on Murray

Novak Djokovic rediscovered his warrior spirit to slide past&nbsp;Canada&#39;s Milos Raonic 7-6(6) 7-6(5) in an exciting battle&nbsp;at the ATP World Tour Finals on Tuesday. The 29-year-old Serb&#39;s recent malaise has cost him the world number one ranking he held for 122 weeks, but when backed into a corner by an inspired Raonic&nbsp;he responded in the belligerent manner that has earned him 12 grand slam titles.

World number four Raonic threw everything&nbsp;at Djokovic&nbsp;for just over two hours, striking 42 winners and 14 aces, but Djokovic, aiming for a fifth consecutive title at the year-ender, was equal to everything.

Having edged a high-intensity first-set when Raonic double-faulted on set point in a tense tiebreak, Djokovic looked to have broken the shackles in the second to lead 4-2. Raonic, who was serving at&nbsp;140mph, stormed back to put&nbsp;Djokovic on his heels. He&nbsp;came only within one&nbsp;missed forehand of extending the match into a decider.

But Djokovic produced a magical backhand flick at 5-5 in the night&#39;s second tiebreak, then an ace, before Raonic succumbed to an eighth successive defeat at the hands of the Serb when his backhand flew wide.

&nbsp;

Putting away the chances

Despite having won only one set in their previous seven matches, Raonic betrayed no inferiority and forced Djokovic to save three break points early on. Wimbledon runner-up Raonic was the aggressor throughout the opener, while Djokovic absorbed the blows and waited to strike.

Raonic did little wrong but was punished for not putting away a volley when up&nbsp;3-2 in the tiebreak, and at 5-5 Djokovic produced an incredible backhand lob. The Canadian saved a set point with a barrage of bludgeoning forehands that cracked Djokovic&#39;s defences, but then&nbsp;botched&nbsp;a forehand return off a dismally weak&nbsp;second-serve before&nbsp;double faulting.

Djokovic was twice dinged&nbsp;back after breaking in the second set, and had Raonic converted the set point that came his way when Djokovic tugged a backhand long at 5-6,&nbsp;the outcome may have been different. It was not to be though, as Djokovic wriggled out of trouble to keep the pressure on Murray in the race to end the year on top&nbsp;for the fifth time in six seasons.

&quot;I could have won it, I gave myself the chances,&quot; Raonic, who won 83 points to Djokovic&#39;s 85, said. &quot;I did a lot of good things. A lot of things to be proud of.&quot;

(With inputs from agencies)

'I could have won it, I gave myself the chances' said Raonic, who won 83 points to Djokovic's 85. 'I did a lot of good things'

Novak Djokovic rediscovered his warrior spirit to slide past Canada's Milos Raonic 7-6(6) 7-6(5) in an exciting battle at the ATP World Tour Finals on Tuesday. The 29-year-old Serb's recent malaise has cost him the world number one ranking he held for 122 weeks, but when backed into a corner by an inspired Raonic he responded in the belligerent manner that has earned him 12 grand slam titles. World number four Raonic threw everything at Djokovic for just over two hours, striking 42 winners and 14 aces, but Djokovic, aiming for a fifth consecutive title at the year-ender, was equal to everything. Having edged a high-intensity first-set when Raonic double-faulted on set point in a tense tiebreak, Djokovic looked to have broken the shackles in the second to lead 4-2. Raonic, who was serving at 140mph, stormed back to put Djokovic on his heels. He came only within one missed forehand of extending the match into a decider. But Djokovic produced a magical backhand flick at 5-5 in the night's second tiebreak, then an ace, before Raonic succumbed to an eighth successive defeat at the hands of the Serb when his backhand flew wide. Putting away the chances Despite having won only one set in their previous seven matches, Raonic betrayed no inferiority and forced Djokovic to save three break points early on. Wimbledon runner-up Raonic was the aggressor throughout the opener, while Djokovic absorbed the blows and waited to strike. Raonic did little wrong but was punished for not putting away a volley when up 3-2 in the tiebreak, and at 5-5 Djokovic produced an incredible backhand lob. The Canadian saved a set point with a barrage of bludgeoning forehands that cracked Djokovic's defences, but then botched a forehand return off a dismally weak second-serve before double faulting. Djokovic was twice dinged back after breaking in the second set, and had Raonic converted the set point that came his way when Djokovic tugged a backhand long at 5-6, the outcome may have been different. It was not to be though, as Djokovic wriggled out of trouble to keep the pressure on Murray in the race to end the year on top for the fifth time in six seasons. "I could have won it, I gave myself the chances," Raonic, who won 83 points to Djokovic's 85, said. "I did a lot of good things. A lot of things to be proud of." (With inputs from agencies)

Djokovic just slides past Raonic at ATP World Tour Finals

Deposed world number one Novak Djokovic suffered an early scare against Austrian debutant Dominic Thiem at the ATP World Tour Finals before launching his bid for a fifth successive title with a 6-7(10), 6-0, 6-2 victory.

Thiem, the youngest of the eight qualifiers for the year-ender endeared himself to a sell-out O2 Arena crowd with a swashbuckling first set tiebreak which he sealed at the seventh time of asking with a sizzling forehand winner.

Djokovic, who could still end the year as world number one by doing better than new top dog Andy Murray, had looked reasonably comfortable, if a little flat, before Thiem upped the pace to take the opener.

Any chance of a shock opening loss to a man he had previously never dropped a set to in three meetings quickly subsided though as Djokovic found another gear to race through the second and third sets.

The second set was over in 23 minutes and once Djokovic forged a break ahead in the third game of the decider there was no way back for his Austrian opponent.

Later on Sunday in the Ivan Lendl group Gael Monfils, another first-timer at the event, takes on Canada&#39;s Milos Raonic.

Murray, who ended Djokovic&#39;s 122-week spell at the top of the rankings last week in Paris, faces Croatia&#39;s Marin Cilic in Monday&#39;s second John McEnroe group match after Japan&#39;s Kei Nishikori takes on US&nbsp;Open champion Stan Wawrinka.

Home favourite Murray leads Djokovic by 405 points but with 275 Davis Cup final points about to drop off his total, the year-end positions will be decided in the coming days, possibly in a showdown in next Sunday&#39;s final.

(Reuters)

Djokivic launched his bid for a fifth successive title with a 6-7(10), 6-0, 6-2 victory over Austrian debutant Dominic Thiem

Deposed world number one Novak Djokovic suffered an early scare against Austrian debutant Dominic Thiem at the ATP World Tour Finals before launching his bid for a fifth successive title with a 6-7(10), 6-0, 6-2 victory. Thiem, the youngest of the eight qualifiers for the year-ender endeared himself to a sell-out O2 Arena crowd with a swashbuckling first set tiebreak which he sealed at the seventh time of asking with a sizzling forehand winner. Djokovic, who could still end the year as world number one by doing better than new top dog Andy Murray, had looked reasonably comfortable, if a little flat, before Thiem upped the pace to take the opener. Any chance of a shock opening loss to a man he had previously never dropped a set to in three meetings quickly subsided though as Djokovic found another gear to race through the second and third sets. The second set was over in 23 minutes and once Djokovic forged a break ahead in the third game of the decider there was no way back for his Austrian opponent. Later on Sunday in the Ivan Lendl group Gael Monfils, another first-timer at the event, takes on Canada's Milos Raonic. Murray, who ended Djokovic's 122-week spell at the top of the rankings last week in Paris, faces Croatia's Marin Cilic in Monday's second John McEnroe group match after Japan's Kei Nishikori takes on US Open champion Stan Wawrinka. Home favourite Murray leads Djokovic by 405 points but with 275 Davis Cup final points about to drop off his total, the year-end positions will be decided in the coming days, possibly in a showdown in next Sunday's final. (Reuters)

ATP World Tour Finals: Djokovic beats Thiem after early scare

Andy Murray celebrated his impending rise to the world number one ranking with a 6-3 6-7(4) 6-4 victory against John Isner to claim his maiden Paris Masters title and his eighth tournament win of the season on Sunday.

The Briton, who will take over from Novak Djokovic at the top of the ATP rankings on Monday, survived a barrage of aces against the towering American to win his 14th career Masters tournament.

The three-times grand slam champion gave little breathing space to Isner, who was hoping to clinch his first Masters title after two lost finals.

Murray will be the top seed at the season-ending ATP World Tour finals at the O2 Arena in London from Nov. 13-20.

&quot;Thanks to my team and my family who were commenting back home. This has been an incredible journey for me to get to the top of the rankings, I could have not done it without all of you,&quot; said Murray.

Isner said of Murray: &quot;He&#39;s the guy that everyone is looking up to right now. And he&#39;s been at the top of the game for so long. Whether it&#39;s two, three, four in the world, everyone knows how hard he works and how dedicated he is.

&quot;He&#39;s a big inspiration to myself and I&#39;m sure he&#39;s a big inspiration to other players, as well.&quot;

The double Olympic champion entered the contest with a 7-0 record against Isner and his recent form, which had helped him to win six of his eight previous tournaments since losing the French Open final, suggested he would have the upper hand.

Murray, who now has 43 titles to his name, broke in the sixth game on his first opportunity when Isner sent a backhand long.

The American, who served a total of 18 aces, had two chances to break back in the following game as he opened up a 40-15 lead.

Murray saved the first with a routine volley after managing to lob his 2.08-metre opponent, and forced Isner to bury a backhand into the net on the second.

He bagged the opening set with an unreturned serve having made only four unforced errors.

Isner earned three break points thanks to a splendid drop shot followed by a forehand winner. Murray saved them all, the last one with a second-serve ace, and staved off another one to stay level.

In the tiebreak, Isner went 4-2 up when Murray double faulted, and the American closed it out with a booming forehand winner to send the contest into a decider.

Both players looked clumsy but it was Murray who played a tighter game in the end, ending the contest on his first match point when Isner netted a backhand volley.

(AFP)

&nbsp;

The three-time Grand Slam winner beat John Isner 6-3, 6-7(4), 6-4

Andy Murray celebrated his impending rise to the world number one ranking with a 6-3 6-7(4) 6-4 victory against John Isner to claim his maiden Paris Masters title and his eighth tournament win of the season on Sunday. The Briton, who will take over from Novak Djokovic at the top of the ATP rankings on Monday, survived a barrage of aces against the towering American to win his 14th career Masters tournament. The three-times grand slam champion gave little breathing space to Isner, who was hoping to clinch his first Masters title after two lost finals. Murray will be the top seed at the season-ending ATP World Tour finals at the O2 Arena in London from Nov. 13-20. "Thanks to my team and my family who were commenting back home. This has been an incredible journey for me to get to the top of the rankings, I could have not done it without all of you," said Murray. Isner said of Murray: "He's the guy that everyone is looking up to right now. And he's been at the top of the game for so long. Whether it's two, three, four in the world, everyone knows how hard he works and how dedicated he is. "He's a big inspiration to myself and I'm sure he's a big inspiration to other players, as well." The double Olympic champion entered the contest with a 7-0 record against Isner and his recent form, which had helped him to win six of his eight previous tournaments since losing the French Open final, suggested he would have the upper hand. Murray, who now has 43 titles to his name, broke in the sixth game on his first opportunity when Isner sent a backhand long. The American, who served a total of 18 aces, had two chances to break back in the following game as he opened up a 40-15 lead. Murray saved the first with a routine volley after managing to lob his 2.08-metre opponent, and forced Isner to bury a backhand into the net on the second. He bagged the opening set with an unreturned serve having made only four unforced errors. Isner earned three break points thanks to a splendid drop shot followed by a forehand winner. Murray saved them all, the last one with a second-serve ace, and staved off another one to stay level. In the tiebreak, Isner went 4-2 up when Murray double faulted, and the American closed it out with a booming forehand winner to send the contest into a decider. Both players looked clumsy but it was Murray who played a tighter game in the end, ending the contest on his first match point when Isner netted a backhand volley. (AFP)

Tennis: Murray claims Paris Masters title

Britain&#39;s Andy Murray became the new world number one on Saturday after Milos Raonic withdrew from their Paris Masters semi-final with injury.

The walkover will see Murray, 29, move to the top of the rankings for the first time in his career after replacing long-time incumbent Novak Djokovic.

Raonic said he had suffered a muscle tear in his right leg in his previous match, sending Murray through to face John Isner in Sunday&#39;s final.

&quot;This morning I had trouble waking up and getting out of bed. So I went to sort of clear any serious diagnosis,&quot; said Raonic, who hurt himself in Friday&#39;s quarter-final win over Jo-Wilfried Tsonga.&nbsp;

&quot;Did some tests. Did an MRI half an hour ago, let&#39;s say. They found that I have a tear, Grade 1 tear in the right quad.&nbsp;

&quot;Unfortunately, I&#39;m not able to compete against Andy today in the second semi-final.&quot;

(AFP) 
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Murray replaced Djokovic to take the top spot for the first time in hi career after Raonic pulled out citing a leg injury

Britain's Andy Murray became the new world number one on Saturday after Milos Raonic withdrew from their Paris Masters semi-final with injury. The walkover will see Murray, 29, move to the top of the rankings for the first time in his career after replacing long-time incumbent Novak Djokovic. Raonic said he had suffered a muscle tear in his right leg in his previous match, sending Murray through to face John Isner in Sunday's final. "This morning I had trouble waking up and getting out of bed. So I went to sort of clear any serious diagnosis," said Raonic, who hurt himself in Friday's quarter-final win over Jo-Wilfried Tsonga. "Did some tests. Did an MRI half an hour ago, let's say. They found that I have a tear, Grade 1 tear in the right quad. "Unfortunately, I'm not able to compete against Andy today in the second semi-final." (AFP)

Tennis: Murray becomes world number one after Raonic withdraws from Paris Masters

Andy&nbsp;Murray beat Roberto Bautista in straight sets to win the Shanghai Masters and close the gap on world number one Novak Djokovic.

The win on Sunday means that the world number two Briton has won his last ten matches in straight sets.

Murray won seven points in a row to grab the first set tie-breaker and broke his opponent thrice in the second set to win the final 7-6 (1), 6-1.

With this win, Murray trails Novak Djokovic by just 915 points.&nbsp;

&quot;I believe I can get there. I definitely believe I can get there. These last few months have proved that to me,&quot;&nbsp;Murray&nbsp;said when asked about his ambition to be the world&#39;s best tennis player.&nbsp;

&quot;I may never get another chance to be number one, so I&#39;ll give it my best shot to do that while I have the opportunity.&quot;

Though Djokovic started the year&nbsp;in imperious form by&nbsp;winning the first two majors. But Murray has enjoyed a splendid run in the second half of the season, becoming the first tennis player to defend his Olympic gold medal&nbsp;and his second Wimbledon.

Bautista, who beat an out-of-sorts Djokovic in the previous round, said of Murray: &quot;I think I can see it in his eyes. He&#39;s really focused on getting number one.&quot;

Nineteenth-ranked Bautista was playing the first Masters final of his career.

The win at Shanghai was Murray&#39;s sixth tittle of the year, and his 41st of his career.

(WION with inputs from AFP)

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The Briton won the Masters title without dropping a single set in the tournament to gain ground on world number one Novak Djokovic

Andy Murray beat Roberto Bautista in straight sets to win the Shanghai Masters and close the gap on world number one Novak Djokovic. The win on Sunday means that the world number two Briton has won his last ten matches in straight sets. Murray won seven points in a row to grab the first set tie-breaker and broke his opponent thrice in the second set to win the final 7-6 (1), 6-1. With this win, Murray trails Novak Djokovic by just 915 points. "I believe I can get there. I definitely believe I can get there. These last few months have proved that to me," Murray said when asked about his ambition to be the world's best tennis player. "I may never get another chance to be number one, so I'll give it my best shot to do that while I have the opportunity." Though Djokovic started the year in imperious form by winning the first two majors. But Murray has enjoyed a splendid run in the second half of the season, becoming the first tennis player to defend his Olympic gold medal and his second Wimbledon. Bautista, who beat an out-of-sorts Djokovic in the previous round, said of Murray: "I think I can see it in his eyes. He's really focused on getting number one." Nineteenth-ranked Bautista was playing the first Masters final of his career. The win at Shanghai was Murray's sixth tittle of the year, and his 41st of his career. (WION with inputs from AFP)

Andy Murray beats Roberto Bautista to win Shanghai Masters

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