The action continues in the 2022 French Open as World number one Novak Djokovic is set to lock horns with Spaniard Rafael Nadal in the high-voltage quarter-final on Wednesday (June 01). Both the players have been in top form in this year's edition and will give a tough fight to each other to proceed to the semi-finals.&nbsp;

Talking about Djokovic, the Serbian hasn't even dropped a set in his journey so far at the Roland Garros and looks determined to retain the French Open title after missing&nbsp;out on playing the Australian Open, early this year, due to the Covid-19 vaccination row. On the other hand, Nadal had won the title for four years in a row before losing the semi-finals of the 2021 edition to Djokovic -- only his third defeat on clay court since his debut. Hence, revenge will be on his mind when he takes on his arch-rival.&nbsp;

Here's the live streaming details of the French Open 2022 quarter-final encounter between Nadal and Djokovic

Where is the Novak Djokovic vs Rafael Nadal French Open quarter-final taking place?

The Djokovic vs&nbsp;Nadal 2022 French Open quarter-final will take place at&nbsp;the Stade Roland Garros's Court Philip Chatrier.

When will the&nbsp;Djokovic vs&nbsp;Nadal French Open quarter-final kick-off?

The high-voltage Djokovic vs&nbsp;Nadal 2022 French Open quarter-final will commence at 12:15 am IST on Wednesday (June 01).

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Which TV channels will broadcast the Novak Djokovic vs Rafael Nadal French Open quarter-final?

The&nbsp;Djokovic vs&nbsp;Nadal French Open quarter-final showdown will be broadcast on Sony Sports Network.&nbsp;

How to watch the live streaming of the Novak Djokovic vs Rafael Nadal French Open quarter-final?

The live streaming of the&nbsp;Djokovic vs&nbsp;Nadal 2022 French Open quarter-final will be available on Sony Liv..

The action continues in the 2022 French Open as World number one Novak Djokovic is set to lock horns with Spaniard Rafael Nadal in the high-voltage quarter-final on Wednesday (June 01).

The action continues in the 2022 French Open as World number one Novak Djokovic is set to lock horns with Spaniard Rafael Nadal in the high-voltage quarter-final on Wednesday (June 01). Both the players have been in top form in this year's edition and will give a tough fight to each other to proceed to the semi-finals. Talking about Djokovic, the Serbian hasn't even dropped a set in his journey so far at the Roland Garros and looks determined to retain the French Open title after missing out on playing the Australian Open, early this year, due to the Covid-19 vaccination row. On the other hand, Nadal had won the title for four years in a row before losing the semi-finals of the 2021 edition to Djokovic -- only his third defeat on clay court since his debut. Hence, revenge will be on his mind when he takes on his arch-rival. Here's the live streaming details of the French Open 2022 quarter-final encounter between Nadal and Djokovic Where is the Novak Djokovic vs Rafael Nadal French Open quarter-final taking place? The Djokovic vs Nadal 2022 French Open quarter-final will take place at the Stade Roland Garros's Court Philip Chatrier. When will the Djokovic vs Nadal French Open quarter-final kick-off? The high-voltage Djokovic vs Nadal 2022 French Open quarter-final will commence at 12:15 am IST on Wednesday (June 01). ALSO READ | 'Angry' Andy Murray likens Texas school shooting survivor's experience to his own Which TV channels will broadcast the Novak Djokovic vs Rafael Nadal French Open quarter-final? The Djokovic vs Nadal French Open quarter-final showdown will be broadcast on Sony Sports Network. How to watch the live streaming of the Novak Djokovic vs Rafael Nadal French Open quarter-final? The live streaming of the Djokovic vs Nadal 2022 French Open quarter-final will be available on Sony Liv..

Rafael Nadal vs Novak Djokovic, Live streaming: When and where to watch French Open's high-voltage QF match?

Rafa Nadal overcame a sluggish start and a stiff challenge from Canadian ninth seed Felix Auger-Aliassime with an enthralling 3-6 6-3 6-2 3-6 6-3 win on Sunday to set up a mouth-watering quarter-final with world number one Novak Djokovic. This was only the third time in his 112 matches that Nadal was taken to the fifth set at Roland Garros and he ensured he kept his blemish-free record intact, wrapping up the win in four hours and 21 minutes to wild applause from the crowd.

Nadal will hope he can recover in time from the gruelling contest for his next outing, where the reigning champion awaits for their 59th career showdown. The Spaniard, who will turn 36 on Friday, has lifted the Musketeers` Cup a record 13 times but was ousted in the semi-finals last year by Djokovic.

Djokovic completed his victory against Diego Schwartzman on Court Suzanne Lenglen shortly before his long-time rival started his match and the Serb is yet to lose a set in his four rounds.

"We know each other well," Nadal said of Djokovic. "We have a lot of history together. He came here after winning in Rome. For me, it was not an ideal situation to arrive here. But here we are. We are at Roland Garros, it is my favourite place without a doubt.

"The only thing I can tell you, I am going to be focused and try my best. The only thing I can guarantee is that I am going to fight until the end," added the Spaniard who converted only six of his 22 breakpoint chances in the match. 
The clash on Court Philippe Chatrier was the second meeting between Nadal and Auger-Aliassime but the first since Toni Nadal began working with the Canadian in 2021.

`Uncle Toni` was part of Nadal`s team for the majority of his record 21 Grand Slam singles titles, and the buildup to the contest was dominated by talk of the 61-year-old coaching Auger-Aliassime against his nephew.

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Toni Nadal did not sit in the Canadian`s box and chose a neutral seat and he would have been pleased with Auger-Aliassime`s performance during the opening set. The 21-year-old showed immense grit and incredible athleticism to win the opening set, earning applause from Nadal on one point when he jumped to make a backhand overhead volley.

Nadal wasted six breakpoint opportunities in the first set but cut down on his errors in the second and made his chance count in the eighth game to break his opponent and level the contest at 1-1.

Nadal got the early break of serve in the third when Auger-Aliassime missed a couple of overhead volleys and another break in the seventh sealed the set and a 2-1 lead for the left-hander. But the Canadian refused to go away.

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After an early trade of service breaks, Auger-Aliassime broke Nadal`s delivery a second time to take the contest to a deciding fifth set. The last time Nadal played a five-setter at Roland Garros was in the 2013 semi-final when he beat Djokovic.

The Spaniard still had enough left in his tank to clinch the deciding break against Auger-Aliassime in the eighth game and then held his serve, sealing the contest on his first match point with a winner. "It was a very important victory for me without doubt," Nadal said.

Rafa Nadal overcame a sluggish start and a stiff challenge from Canadian ninth seed Felix Auger-Aliassime with an enthralling 3-6 6-3 6-2 3-6 6-3 win on Sunday to set up a mouth-watering quarter-final with world number one Novak Djokovic.

Rafa Nadal overcame a sluggish start and a stiff challenge from Canadian ninth seed Felix Auger-Aliassime with an enthralling 3-6 6-3 6-2 3-6 6-3 win on Sunday to set up a mouth-watering quarter-final with world number one Novak Djokovic. This was only the third time in his 112 matches that Nadal was taken to the fifth set at Roland Garros and he ensured he kept his blemish-free record intact, wrapping up the win in four hours and 21 minutes to wild applause from the crowd. Nadal will hope he can recover in time from the gruelling contest for his next outing, where the reigning champion awaits for their 59th career showdown. The Spaniard, who will turn 36 on Friday, has lifted the Musketeers` Cup a record 13 times but was ousted in the semi-finals last year by Djokovic. Djokovic completed his victory against Diego Schwartzman on Court Suzanne Lenglen shortly before his long-time rival started his match and the Serb is yet to lose a set in his four rounds. "We know each other well," Nadal said of Djokovic. "We have a lot of history together. He came here after winning in Rome. For me, it was not an ideal situation to arrive here. But here we are. We are at Roland Garros, it is my favourite place without a doubt. "The only thing I can tell you, I am going to be focused and try my best. The only thing I can guarantee is that I am going to fight until the end," added the Spaniard who converted only six of his 22 breakpoint chances in the match. The clash on Court Philippe Chatrier was the second meeting between Nadal and Auger-Aliassime but the first since Toni Nadal began working with the Canadian in 2021. `Uncle Toni` was part of Nadal`s team for the majority of his record 21 Grand Slam singles titles, and the buildup to the contest was dominated by talk of the 61-year-old coaching Auger-Aliassime against his nephew. Also Read: Daniil Medvedev pushing for return to top of world rankings at French Open 2022 Toni Nadal did not sit in the Canadian`s box and chose a neutral seat and he would have been pleased with Auger-Aliassime`s performance during the opening set. The 21-year-old showed immense grit and incredible athleticism to win the opening set, earning applause from Nadal on one point when he jumped to make a backhand overhead volley. Nadal wasted six breakpoint opportunities in the first set but cut down on his errors in the second and made his chance count in the eighth game to break his opponent and level the contest at 1-1. Nadal got the early break of serve in the third when Auger-Aliassime missed a couple of overhead volleys and another break in the seventh sealed the set and a 2-1 lead for the left-hander. But the Canadian refused to go away. Also Read: Novak Djokovic beats Diego Schwartzman to enters QFs, Coco Gauff ousts Elise Mertens After an early trade of service breaks, Auger-Aliassime broke Nadal`s delivery a second time to take the contest to a deciding fifth set. The last time Nadal played a five-setter at Roland Garros was in the 2013 semi-final when he beat Djokovic. The Spaniard still had enough left in his tank to clinch the deciding break against Auger-Aliassime in the eighth game and then held his serve, sealing the contest on his first match point with a winner. "It was a very important victory for me without doubt," Nadal said.

French Open 2022: Rafael Nadal beats Felix Auger-Aliassime in thriller to set up Novak Djokovic date

Tuesday`s highly-anticipated French Open quarter-final between world number one Novak Djokovic and 13-time champion Rafa Nadal has been scheduled to be played during the controversial night session despite the Spaniard expressing reservations against it. The night session, for which Amazon Prime has exclusive broadcasting rights in France, starts at 9 p.m. local time and was introduced for the first time at the 2021 edition of the claycourt major.

"I don`t like night sessions on clay. I am very clear with that," Nadal, who enjoys a near mythical status at Roland Garros, where he has a statue erected in his honour, told reporters last week. "I don`t like to play on clay during the night because humidity is higher, the ball is slower and there can be very heavy conditions especially when it`s cold. "I think that makes a big difference on the way you play tennis on clay during the night and during the day."

Teen sensation Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev have both said they would not want their quarter-final, also on Tuesday, to be scheduled during the night session. The match between the Spaniard and the German third seed was put as the third one on Court Philippe Chatrier.

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The Djokovic-Nadal rivalry is such a hot bill that usual rules tend not to apply when the two heavyweights face each other at the French Open. Last year, the COVID-19 curfew was pushed back to allow fans to stay longer at Roland Garros when Djokovic knocked Nadal out in the semi-finals and this year, the match will be broadcast for free on Prime Video, organisers said.

Asked about his choice during a TV interview Djokovic said with a smile: "I can only say that Rafa and I would make different applications." "As top players, we do have requests, but those requests are not always accepted," he told reporters. "The tournament director, along with TV, broadcasters, I think in the end of the day that`s who decides... TV, whether they want your match, day or night.

"You just have to adjust to that. Obviously, depending on who you play, sometimes it`s favourable to play night; sometimes day. There is no standard or no formula that works always."

Tuesday`s highly-anticipated French Open quarter-final between world number one Novak Djokovic and 13-time champion Rafa Nadal has been scheduled to be played during the controversial night session despite the Spaniard expressing reservations against it.

Tuesday`s highly-anticipated French Open quarter-final between world number one Novak Djokovic and 13-time champion Rafa Nadal has been scheduled to be played during the controversial night session despite the Spaniard expressing reservations against it. The night session, for which Amazon Prime has exclusive broadcasting rights in France, starts at 9 p.m. local time and was introduced for the first time at the 2021 edition of the claycourt major. "I don`t like night sessions on clay. I am very clear with that," Nadal, who enjoys a near mythical status at Roland Garros, where he has a statue erected in his honour, told reporters last week. "I don`t like to play on clay during the night because humidity is higher, the ball is slower and there can be very heavy conditions especially when it`s cold. "I think that makes a big difference on the way you play tennis on clay during the night and during the day." Teen sensation Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev have both said they would not want their quarter-final, also on Tuesday, to be scheduled during the night session. The match between the Spaniard and the German third seed was put as the third one on Court Philippe Chatrier. ALSO READ | French Open 2022: Rafael Nadal beats Felix Auger-Aliassime in thriller to set up Novak Djokovic date The Djokovic-Nadal rivalry is such a hot bill that usual rules tend not to apply when the two heavyweights face each other at the French Open. Last year, the COVID-19 curfew was pushed back to allow fans to stay longer at Roland Garros when Djokovic knocked Nadal out in the semi-finals and this year, the match will be broadcast for free on Prime Video, organisers said. Asked about his choice during a TV interview Djokovic said with a smile: "I can only say that Rafa and I would make different applications." "As top players, we do have requests, but those requests are not always accepted," he told reporters. "The tournament director, along with TV, broadcasters, I think in the end of the day that`s who decides... TV, whether they want your match, day or night. "You just have to adjust to that. Obviously, depending on who you play, sometimes it`s favourable to play night; sometimes day. There is no standard or no formula that works always."

French Open 2022: Novak Djokovic v Rafael Nadal put on night session despite Spaniard's reluctance

Rafa Nadal hammered Dutch 26th seed Botic van de Zandschulp 6-3 6-2 6-4 in the French Open third round on Friday to remain on course for a potential mouth-watering showdown against world number one Novak Djokovic in the quarter-finals. Nadal has 13 Roland Garros titles among his 21 majors -- the highest among men -- but the Spaniard was denied last year when he went down in the semi-finals to eventual champion Djokovic.

Around the same time on nearby Court Philippe Chatrier, the Serb also put on a prolific display to book his spot in the fourth round with a 6-3 6-3 6-2 win over Slovenia`s Aljaz Bedene to stay in the hunt for a record-equalling 21st major. While Djokovic will next meet Argentine Diego Schwartzman, Nadal will take on Canadian ninth seed Felix Auger-Aliassime before their potential clash in the last eight.

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Van de Zandschulp began the match on a strong footing, breaking Nadal`s serve in the first game, but the Spaniard`s delivery looked almost impregnable for the remainder of the contest on Court Suzanne Lenglen. 
In his first career meeting against the Dutchman, Nadal dictated terms from way behind the baseline, absorbing his opponent`s power and then bringing out his venomous forehand when required.

Van de Zandschulp, currently at a career-high ranking of 29th, staged a brief fightback in the third set when he won three games in a row from 4-0 down but Nadal, who will turn 36 next week, had the cushion to not be threatened. Nadal broke the 26-year-old`s service twice in each of the three sets, hit 25 winners while keeping a lid on his unforced errors. The left-hander closed out the contest with an overhead smash down the middle on his second match point.

"I had my chance with a break point for 5-0 then match was over but he made a great second serve," Nadal said on court. "Then I played a bad game with my serve and he started to play aggressive and you feel a bit of nerves to finish the match. "Straight sets, it was my best match of the tournament for two sets and a half."

Rafa Nadal hammered Dutch 26th seed Botic van de Zandschulp 6-3 6-2 6-4 in the French Open third round on Friday to remain on course for a potential mouth-watering showdown against world number one Novak Djokovic in the quarter-finals.

Rafa Nadal hammered Dutch 26th seed Botic van de Zandschulp 6-3 6-2 6-4 in the French Open third round on Friday to remain on course for a potential mouth-watering showdown against world number one Novak Djokovic in the quarter-finals. Nadal has 13 Roland Garros titles among his 21 majors -- the highest among men -- but the Spaniard was denied last year when he went down in the semi-finals to eventual champion Djokovic. Around the same time on nearby Court Philippe Chatrier, the Serb also put on a prolific display to book his spot in the fourth round with a 6-3 6-3 6-2 win over Slovenia`s Aljaz Bedene to stay in the hunt for a record-equalling 21st major. While Djokovic will next meet Argentine Diego Schwartzman, Nadal will take on Canadian ninth seed Felix Auger-Aliassime before their potential clash in the last eight. ALSO READ | French Open: Stefanos Tsitsipas survives Zdenek Kolar scare to enter third round in Paris Van de Zandschulp began the match on a strong footing, breaking Nadal`s serve in the first game, but the Spaniard`s delivery looked almost impregnable for the remainder of the contest on Court Suzanne Lenglen. In his first career meeting against the Dutchman, Nadal dictated terms from way behind the baseline, absorbing his opponent`s power and then bringing out his venomous forehand when required. Van de Zandschulp, currently at a career-high ranking of 29th, staged a brief fightback in the third set when he won three games in a row from 4-0 down but Nadal, who will turn 36 next week, had the cushion to not be threatened. Nadal broke the 26-year-old`s service twice in each of the three sets, hit 25 winners while keeping a lid on his unforced errors. The left-hander closed out the contest with an overhead smash down the middle on his second match point. "I had my chance with a break point for 5-0 then match was over but he made a great second serve," Nadal said on court. "Then I played a bad game with my serve and he started to play aggressive and you feel a bit of nerves to finish the match. "Straight sets, it was my best match of the tournament for two sets and a half."

French Open: Spaniard Rafael Nadal stays on course for possible face-off with Novak Djokovic in quarters

Rafael Nadal showed no signs of pain as the 13-time French Open champion marched into the second round at Roland Garros with clinical 6-2 6-2 6-2 demolition of Australian Jordan Thompson on Monday. 
 
The Spaniard, who had never arrived in Paris as unprepared as this year after a rib injury and a chronic foot problem hampered the build-up to his beloved Grand Slam tournament, was never bothered on a chilly court Philippe Chatrier. 
 
"It`s incredible for me to play here again on Chatrier. I`m happy with this win. First round is always special," said Nadal. 
 
The 35-year-old, who has a record 21 men`s Grand Slam titles to his name, played down the chances of adding to his tally but his display was reminiscent of those of previous years.

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Nadal broke for 2-1 with a backhand volley winner and his massive forehand helped him quickly move 4-1 up against an overwhelmed opponent. 
 
The fifth seed looked to finish off some points quickly and made several unusual unforced errors, but they were of little consequence as he breezed through the opening set. 
 
Nadal broke serve in the first game of the second set and again in the fifth and seventh as he started to play more neatly, bagging it with a service winner.

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Thompson, who pulled a break back, looked completely worn out by then but managed to hold it together until 2-2, when Nadal broke with a forehand volley and won all the rest of the games.

Rafael Nadal showed no signs of pain as the 13-time French Open champion marched into the second round at Roland Garros with clinical 6-2 6-2 6-2 demolition of Australian Jordan Thompson on Monday.

Rafael Nadal showed no signs of pain as the 13-time French Open champion marched into the second round at Roland Garros with clinical 6-2 6-2 6-2 demolition of Australian Jordan Thompson on Monday. The Spaniard, who had never arrived in Paris as unprepared as this year after a rib injury and a chronic foot problem hampered the build-up to his beloved Grand Slam tournament, was never bothered on a chilly court Philippe Chatrier. "It`s incredible for me to play here again on Chatrier. I`m happy with this win. First round is always special," said Nadal. The 35-year-old, who has a record 21 men`s Grand Slam titles to his name, played down the chances of adding to his tally but his display was reminiscent of those of previous years. Also Read: French Open: Diane Parry knocks out reigning champion Barbora Krejcikova in first round Nadal broke for 2-1 with a backhand volley winner and his massive forehand helped him quickly move 4-1 up against an overwhelmed opponent. The fifth seed looked to finish off some points quickly and made several unusual unforced errors, but they were of little consequence as he breezed through the opening set. Nadal broke serve in the first game of the second set and again in the fifth and seventh as he started to play more neatly, bagging it with a service winner. Also Read: French Open 2022: It's painful playing against Russians, says Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko Thompson, who pulled a break back, looked completely worn out by then but managed to hold it together until 2-2, when Nadal broke with a forehand volley and won all the rest of the games.

Rafael Nadal destroys Jordan Thompson to reach French Open second round

Rafael Nadal has played down his chances of winning a record-extending 14th French Open title but said he would not be in Paris if he thought it was not possible. The 35-year-old says he has never felt less prepared for his favourite tournament after being hampered by a rib injury and a chronic foot problem since winning the Australian Open.

Nadal withdrew from the Barcelona Open last month and lost in the third round of the Rome Masters against Denis Shapovalov. Asked about his fitness at a news conference on Friday the record 21-time Grand Slam champion said: "It is something that I live every day with, so is nothing new for me and is not a big surprise. I am here just to play tennis and to try to make the best result possible here in Roland Garros.

"And if I didn`t believe that this thing can happen, probably I would not be here." His best result during the European claycourt season was a quarter-final run in Madrid where he lost to Spanish teenage sensation Carlos Alcaraz in three sets.

Nadal, however, has made it to Paris and he practiced with fellow Mallorcan Jaume Munar on Wednesday evening. "I considered myself during all my tennis career one of the candidates here, because I achieve tournaments before here. Now on Friday, before the tournament starts, I don`t think I am the favourite at all. But you never know what can happen," he said.

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Nadal can only hope that his foot injury will relent for a couple of weeks, especially as his path puts him on a quarter-final collision course with world number one Novak Djokovic. "I&nbsp;think my level of tennis on clay has been high during a long period of time in my tennis career, without a doubt. That`s what the numbers say," the fifth seed said.

"Unfortunately here I didn`t have the preparation that I would like, and unfortunately that rib fracture stopped a little bit the great momentum I was having since the season start. "But in sport, things can change quick, and the only thing that I can do is try to be ready if that change happens.

"Today looks difficult and looks that there are players that are in better shape than me, without a doubt. But you never know what can happen in the next couple of days." Nadal will start his campaign against Australian Jordan Thompson.

Rafael Nadal has played down his chances of winning a record-extending 14th French Open title but said he would not be in Paris if he thought it was not possible.

Rafael Nadal has played down his chances of winning a record-extending 14th French Open title but said he would not be in Paris if he thought it was not possible. The 35-year-old says he has never felt less prepared for his favourite tournament after being hampered by a rib injury and a chronic foot problem since winning the Australian Open. Nadal withdrew from the Barcelona Open last month and lost in the third round of the Rome Masters against Denis Shapovalov. Asked about his fitness at a news conference on Friday the record 21-time Grand Slam champion said: "It is something that I live every day with, so is nothing new for me and is not a big surprise. I am here just to play tennis and to try to make the best result possible here in Roland Garros. "And if I didn`t believe that this thing can happen, probably I would not be here." His best result during the European claycourt season was a quarter-final run in Madrid where he lost to Spanish teenage sensation Carlos Alcaraz in three sets. Nadal, however, has made it to Paris and he practiced with fellow Mallorcan Jaume Munar on Wednesday evening. "I considered myself during all my tennis career one of the candidates here, because I achieve tournaments before here. Now on Friday, before the tournament starts, I don`t think I am the favourite at all. But you never know what can happen," he said. ALSO READ | Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal could lock horns in French Open quarter-finals Nadal can only hope that his foot injury will relent for a couple of weeks, especially as his path puts him on a quarter-final collision course with world number one Novak Djokovic. "I think my level of tennis on clay has been high during a long period of time in my tennis career, without a doubt. That`s what the numbers say," the fifth seed said. "Unfortunately here I didn`t have the preparation that I would like, and unfortunately that rib fracture stopped a little bit the great momentum I was having since the season start. "But in sport, things can change quick, and the only thing that I can do is try to be ready if that change happens. "Today looks difficult and looks that there are players that are in better shape than me, without a doubt. But you never know what can happen in the next couple of days." Nadal will start his campaign against Australian Jordan Thompson.

World No. 5 Rafael Nadal plays down chances of 14th French Open crown

Defending champion Novak Djokovic and 13-times winner Rafael Nadal are on a quarter-final collision course at the French Open following the draw on Thursday. World number one Djokovic, back on the Grand Slam scene after being deported from Melbourne ahead of the Australian Open following his decision not to have a COVID-19 vaccination, will start his campaign against Japan`s Yoshihito Nishioka.

He was drawn in the toughest half of the draw with Nadal as well as in-form Spanish teenager Carlos Alcaraz and world number three Alexander Zverev, who could clash in the last eight. The French Open will operate at full capacity for the first time in three years after the last two tournaments were disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. "It`s amazing to see all the fans who have already come here for the qualifications," said Djokovic, who attended the draw ceremony at Roland Garros.

In the lower part of the draw, last year`s runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas faces a tricky first-round match against Italian Lorenzo Musetti, who last year took Djokovic to five sets in the fourth round. World number two Daniil Medvedev could take on compatriot Andrey Rublev in the quarter-finals as Russian players have been allowed to compete despite their country`s invasion of Ukraine.

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Wimbledon organisers have decided to ban Russian and Belarusian players from taking part in the grasscourt Grand Slam this year. In the women`s draw, hot favourite Iga Swiatek, looking to secure her second French Open title in three years, could face former champion Jelena Ostapenko in the last 16. 
Ostapenko was the last player to beat the Polish world number one before she started her 28-match unbeaten streak, winning five titles before the start of the French Open on Sunday.

Defending champion Barbora Krejcikova is on a last-16 collision course with former world number one Victoria Azarenka in the lower part of the draw. Naomi Osaka, who withdrew from the tournament last year after skipping her media duties and citing mental health issues, has been drawn to face American Amanda Anisimova, the 27th seed.

Defending champion Novak Djokovic and 13-times winner Rafael Nadal are on a quarter-final collision course at the French Open following the draw on Thursday. World number one Djokovic, back on the Grand Slam scene after being deported from Melbourne ahead of the Australian Open following his decision not to have a COVID-19 vaccination, will start his campaign against Japan`s Yoshihito Nishioka.

Defending champion Novak Djokovic and 13-times winner Rafael Nadal are on a quarter-final collision course at the French Open following the draw on Thursday. World number one Djokovic, back on the Grand Slam scene after being deported from Melbourne ahead of the Australian Open following his decision not to have a COVID-19 vaccination, will start his campaign against Japan`s Yoshihito Nishioka. He was drawn in the toughest half of the draw with Nadal as well as in-form Spanish teenager Carlos Alcaraz and world number three Alexander Zverev, who could clash in the last eight. The French Open will operate at full capacity for the first time in three years after the last two tournaments were disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. "It`s amazing to see all the fans who have already come here for the qualifications," said Djokovic, who attended the draw ceremony at Roland Garros. In the lower part of the draw, last year`s runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas faces a tricky first-round match against Italian Lorenzo Musetti, who last year took Djokovic to five sets in the fourth round. World number two Daniil Medvedev could take on compatriot Andrey Rublev in the quarter-finals as Russian players have been allowed to compete despite their country`s invasion of Ukraine. ALSO READ | 'Sunshine double': Novak Djokovic and his 7-year-old son win tournaments on same day Wimbledon organisers have decided to ban Russian and Belarusian players from taking part in the grasscourt Grand Slam this year. In the women`s draw, hot favourite Iga Swiatek, looking to secure her second French Open title in three years, could face former champion Jelena Ostapenko in the last 16. Ostapenko was the last player to beat the Polish world number one before she started her 28-match unbeaten streak, winning five titles before the start of the French Open on Sunday. Defending champion Barbora Krejcikova is on a last-16 collision course with former world number one Victoria Azarenka in the lower part of the draw. Naomi Osaka, who withdrew from the tournament last year after skipping her media duties and citing mental health issues, has been drawn to face American Amanda Anisimova, the 27th seed.

Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal could lock horns in French Open quarter-finals

Rafa Nadal said that everyday training was a challenge and he would take a doctor with him to Roland Garros after the 21-times major winner was once again hampered by a chronic foot injury in his defeat by Denis Shapovalov at the Italian Open on Thursday.

Nadal, who only recently returned from a stress fracture in the ribs, struggled badly at the back end of his match against the Canadian as he went down 1-6 7-5 6-2 in the last-16. "I had my foot again with a lot of pain. I am a player living with an injury - it is nothing new. It`s something that is there," Nadal, a 10-times champion in Rome, told reporters.

"Unfortunately, my day-by-day is difficult, honestly. Even like this, I am trying hard... it can be frustrating that a lot of days I can`t practice the proper way." The 35-year-old missed the bulk of last season due to the foot problem before mounting a remarkable comeback to win the Australian Open in January and also prevailing in Acapulco.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spaniard-rafael-nadal-knocked-out-of-italian-open-by-denis-shapovalov-in-last-16-478590">Spaniard Rafael Nadal knocked out of Italian Open by Denis Shapovalov in last-16</a>

"Since I came back, the foot has been tough," added the Spaniard. "Negative thing and toughest thing for me today is honestly I started to feel myself play much better. I started the match playing much better." 
Nadal`s preparation heading into the French Open, where he will be bidding for a record-extending 14th title, has been far from ideal after he was also knocked out of last week`s Madrid Open by Carlos Alcaraz at the quarter-finals stage.

"First thing that I need to do is to don`t have pain to practice... it`s true that during the French Open, Roland Garros, I going to have my doctor there with me. That sometimes helps because you can do things," said Nadal. "In the positive days and in the negative days, you need to stay and to value all the things that happened to me in a positive way."

Rafa Nadal said that everyday training was a challenge and he would take a doctor with him to Roland Garros after the 21-times major winner was once again hampered by a chronic foot injury in his defeat by Denis Shapovalov at the Italian Open on Thursday.

Rafa Nadal said that everyday training was a challenge and he would take a doctor with him to Roland Garros after the 21-times major winner was once again hampered by a chronic foot injury in his defeat by Denis Shapovalov at the Italian Open on Thursday. Nadal, who only recently returned from a stress fracture in the ribs, struggled badly at the back end of his match against the Canadian as he went down 1-6 7-5 6-2 in the last-16. "I had my foot again with a lot of pain. I am a player living with an injury - it is nothing new. It`s something that is there," Nadal, a 10-times champion in Rome, told reporters. "Unfortunately, my day-by-day is difficult, honestly. Even like this, I am trying hard... it can be frustrating that a lot of days I can`t practice the proper way." The 35-year-old missed the bulk of last season due to the foot problem before mounting a remarkable comeback to win the Australian Open in January and also prevailing in Acapulco. ALSO READ | Spaniard Rafael Nadal knocked out of Italian Open by Denis Shapovalov in last-16 "Since I came back, the foot has been tough," added the Spaniard. "Negative thing and toughest thing for me today is honestly I started to feel myself play much better. I started the match playing much better." Nadal`s preparation heading into the French Open, where he will be bidding for a record-extending 14th title, has been far from ideal after he was also knocked out of last week`s Madrid Open by Carlos Alcaraz at the quarter-finals stage. "First thing that I need to do is to don`t have pain to practice... it`s true that during the French Open, Roland Garros, I going to have my doctor there with me. That sometimes helps because you can do things," said Nadal. "In the positive days and in the negative days, you need to stay and to value all the things that happened to me in a positive way."

Rafael Nadal reveals foot injury a cause of concern ahead of French Open

Rafa Nadal was knocked out of the Italian Open after the 21-times major winner was beaten 1-6 7-5 6-2 by Canadian Denis Shapovalov in the last-16 of the Italian Open on Thursday. Nadal had a solid start, but the 35-year-old struggled physically towards the end of the contest, raising doubts over his fitness ahead of the French Open, which he has won a record 13 times.

The Spaniard, who has endured a string of injuries during a career spanning more than two decades, dominated the opening set with his brilliant return of serves. Canadian Shapovalov responded in style by racing to a 4-1 lead in the second set with his energetic and attacking play, but Nadal got back into the contest by winning the next three games.

Nadal saved a set point at 4-5 but a series of unforced errors and lack of aggression from him saw the match go into the deciding third set. World number four Nadal broke through right away at the start of the decider but later limped with an apparent foot injury, likely related to his chronic left-foot problem. 
Shapovalov went won 17 of the last 20 points, completing his comeback as he handed Nadal his earliest Rome exit since 2008.

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"I am not injured. I am a player living with an injury. That`s it," Nadal told reporters. "I started the match playing much better. My practice was much better, the warm-up, than the other day. "Then when these kind of stuff happens, the rest of the things, the rest of the positive things disappears."

Shapovalov said he hoped Nadal would recover in time for the French Open, which starts on 22nd May. 
"Definitely tough to see him in pain there at the end. I never want to see that, especially with a great legend like Rafa," he added. "He`s been winning so much, I think it`s almost been difficult for him to stop playing and kind of take it easy."

Earlier, Novak Djokovic ended Stan Wawrinka`s hopes of stringing together a hat-trick of match wins for the first time in 18 months with a 6-2 6-2 thumping. The 37-year-old Swiss, who had not played for 12 months after undergoing two surgeries for a foot injury, battled past Reilly Opelka and Laslo Djere to set up a 26th meeting with top seed Djokovic in the Italian capital, and first since 2019.

The 361st ranked Wawrinka, who last won three successive matches at the 2020 Paris Masters, could not cope with Djokovic`s baseline intensity in the first set and was broken twice. Wawrinka showed incredible defence to break Djokovic in the sixth game of the second set but a double break from the world number one carried him to victory.

It was Djokovic`s 20th win over Wawrinka, and 998th career victory, as he bids to become the fifth player to reach the 1000-win mark. "It is great to see Stan back," the Serbian said. "He won two matches here, he is still physically not there, but he is still Stan and can hurt you. 
"From the beginning I really moved him around the court and held my serve well. I know what is expected from me next."

Djokovic will face Canadian Felix Auger Aliassime in the quarter-finals after the 21-year-old beat American Marcos Giron 6-3 6-2. Alexander Zverev chalked up a century of match wins at Masters 1000 events with a 6-3 7-6(5) win over Australian Alex de Minaur, while world number five Stefanos Tsitsipas battled back from a set down to beat 4-6 6-0 6-3 Russian Karen Khachanov.

Local hope Jannik Sinner reached his first quarter-final in Rome with a 6-2 7-6(6) victory over Filip Krajinovic, while fifth seed Casper Ruud won 6-3 6-4 against Jenson Brooksby.

Rafa Nadal was knocked out of the Italian Open after the 21-times major winner was beaten 1-6 7-5 6-2 by Canadian Denis Shapovalov in the last-16 of the Italian Open on Thursday.

Rafa Nadal was knocked out of the Italian Open after the 21-times major winner was beaten 1-6 7-5 6-2 by Canadian Denis Shapovalov in the last-16 of the Italian Open on Thursday. Nadal had a solid start, but the 35-year-old struggled physically towards the end of the contest, raising doubts over his fitness ahead of the French Open, which he has won a record 13 times. The Spaniard, who has endured a string of injuries during a career spanning more than two decades, dominated the opening set with his brilliant return of serves. Canadian Shapovalov responded in style by racing to a 4-1 lead in the second set with his energetic and attacking play, but Nadal got back into the contest by winning the next three games. Nadal saved a set point at 4-5 but a series of unforced errors and lack of aggression from him saw the match go into the deciding third set. World number four Nadal broke through right away at the start of the decider but later limped with an apparent foot injury, likely related to his chronic left-foot problem. Shapovalov went won 17 of the last 20 points, completing his comeback as he handed Nadal his earliest Rome exit since 2008. ALSO READ | World No. 1 Iga Swiatek wins 25th straight match to reach Rome quarter-finals "I am not injured. I am a player living with an injury. That`s it," Nadal told reporters. "I started the match playing much better. My practice was much better, the warm-up, than the other day. "Then when these kind of stuff happens, the rest of the things, the rest of the positive things disappears." Shapovalov said he hoped Nadal would recover in time for the French Open, which starts on 22nd May. "Definitely tough to see him in pain there at the end. I never want to see that, especially with a great legend like Rafa," he added. "He`s been winning so much, I think it`s almost been difficult for him to stop playing and kind of take it easy." Earlier, Novak Djokovic ended Stan Wawrinka`s hopes of stringing together a hat-trick of match wins for the first time in 18 months with a 6-2 6-2 thumping. The 37-year-old Swiss, who had not played for 12 months after undergoing two surgeries for a foot injury, battled past Reilly Opelka and Laslo Djere to set up a 26th meeting with top seed Djokovic in the Italian capital, and first since 2019. The 361st ranked Wawrinka, who last won three successive matches at the 2020 Paris Masters, could not cope with Djokovic`s baseline intensity in the first set and was broken twice. Wawrinka showed incredible defence to break Djokovic in the sixth game of the second set but a double break from the world number one carried him to victory. It was Djokovic`s 20th win over Wawrinka, and 998th career victory, as he bids to become the fifth player to reach the 1000-win mark. "It is great to see Stan back," the Serbian said. "He won two matches here, he is still physically not there, but he is still Stan and can hurt you. "From the beginning I really moved him around the court and held my serve well. I know what is expected from me next." Djokovic will face Canadian Felix Auger Aliassime in the quarter-finals after the 21-year-old beat American Marcos Giron 6-3 6-2. Alexander Zverev chalked up a century of match wins at Masters 1000 events with a 6-3 7-6(5) win over Australian Alex de Minaur, while world number five Stefanos Tsitsipas battled back from a set down to beat 4-6 6-0 6-3 Russian Karen Khachanov. Local hope Jannik Sinner reached his first quarter-final in Rome with a 6-2 7-6(6) victory over Filip Krajinovic, while fifth seed Casper Ruud won 6-3 6-4 against Jenson Brooksby.

Spaniard Rafael Nadal knocked out of Italian Open by Denis Shapovalov in last-16

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Defending champion Rafa Nadal began his Italian Open campaign with an emphatic 6-3 6-1 victory over big-serving American John Isner to move into the last-16 on Wednesday while Stefanos Tsitsipas saved two match points to advance.

Nadal, who returned from a rib injury this month and fell at the quarter-final hurdle in Madrid last week, dominated Isner who struggled to find answers once the Spaniard, seeking his 11th title at Rome`s Foro Italico, hit his stride.

Isner leads the ATP Tour with over 450 aces in 2022 but Nadal negated the American`s booming serve by receiving from well behind the baseline -- even on his second serve -- breaking four times and restricting him to just one ace in the match.

The match went with serve in the opening set and Isner squandered two break points at 3-3, before Nadal stepped up his game and broke in the next game after a lapse in concentration from the towering American. 
"The beginning of the match was not good for me and even he had some chances on the return to break. I was in his hands at that moment," Nadal said in a post-match interview.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/italian-open-novak-djokovic-thumps-aslan-karatsev-in-opener-felix-shapovalov-also-advance-ahead-478119">Italian Open: Novak Djokovic thumps Aslan Karatsev in opener; Felix, Shapovalov also advance ahead</a>

"Lucky that he missed those couple of shots. Then I was able to break and then the match changed." 
The second set was no contest as Nadal broke in the opening game to set the tone and he did not look back as Isner ran out of gas. Nadal will play Denis Shapovalov in the next round, against whom he saved two match points in the third round last year en route to his 10th title.

"Last year was a joke, that match I saved here against him. I know how dangerous he is," Nadal added. 
"I need to play well, of course, I need to play better than today. But it`s another victory and now tomorrow again a chance to play against one of the best players of the world." Tsitsipas scraped past Grigor Dimitrov with a 6-3 5-7 7-6(4) win but he was made to toil after the Bulgarian suddenly found his groove in the second set.

Dimitrov broke to love when Tsitsipas was serving for the match and won four straight games to take it to a third set. Dimitrov earned match points at 5-4 and 6-5 in the decider but the Greek fourth seed saved both and forced a tiebreak, where he raced to a 5-0 lead before sealing his progress.

"Incredible fight, I`m extremely happy I was able to overcome this obstacle," Tsitsipas said. "Grigor played really well, gave me a hard time on the court. "The fact that I was able to process all of that and come back stronger in the third set tiebreak, it was such a great way to redeem myself." Second seed Alexander Zverev, who lost in the final in Madrid at the weekend, also advanced to the last-16 after he dispatched Argentine Sebastian Baez 7-6(6) 6-3.

Defending champion Rafa Nadal began his Italian Open campaign with an emphatic 6-3 6-1 victory over big-serving American John Isner to move into the last-16 on Wednesday while Stefanos Tsitsipas saved two match points to advance.

Defending champion Rafa Nadal began his Italian Open campaign with an emphatic 6-3 6-1 victory over big-serving American John Isner to move into the last-16 on Wednesday while Stefanos Tsitsipas saved two match points to advance. Nadal, who returned from a rib injury this month and fell at the quarter-final hurdle in Madrid last week, dominated Isner who struggled to find answers once the Spaniard, seeking his 11th title at Rome`s Foro Italico, hit his stride. Isner leads the ATP Tour with over 450 aces in 2022 but Nadal negated the American`s booming serve by receiving from well behind the baseline -- even on his second serve -- breaking four times and restricting him to just one ace in the match. The match went with serve in the opening set and Isner squandered two break points at 3-3, before Nadal stepped up his game and broke in the next game after a lapse in concentration from the towering American. "The beginning of the match was not good for me and even he had some chances on the return to break. I was in his hands at that moment," Nadal said in a post-match interview. ALSO READ | Italian Open: Novak Djokovic thumps Aslan Karatsev in opener; Felix, Shapovalov also advance ahead "Lucky that he missed those couple of shots. Then I was able to break and then the match changed." The second set was no contest as Nadal broke in the opening game to set the tone and he did not look back as Isner ran out of gas. Nadal will play Denis Shapovalov in the next round, against whom he saved two match points in the third round last year en route to his 10th title. "Last year was a joke, that match I saved here against him. I know how dangerous he is," Nadal added. "I need to play well, of course, I need to play better than today. But it`s another victory and now tomorrow again a chance to play against one of the best players of the world." Tsitsipas scraped past Grigor Dimitrov with a 6-3 5-7 7-6(4) win but he was made to toil after the Bulgarian suddenly found his groove in the second set. Dimitrov broke to love when Tsitsipas was serving for the match and won four straight games to take it to a third set. Dimitrov earned match points at 5-4 and 6-5 in the decider but the Greek fourth seed saved both and forced a tiebreak, where he raced to a 5-0 lead before sealing his progress. "Incredible fight, I`m extremely happy I was able to overcome this obstacle," Tsitsipas said. "Grigor played really well, gave me a hard time on the court. "The fact that I was able to process all of that and come back stronger in the third set tiebreak, it was such a great way to redeem myself." Second seed Alexander Zverev, who lost in the final in Madrid at the weekend, also advanced to the last-16 after he dispatched Argentine Sebastian Baez 7-6(6) 6-3.

Defending champion Rafael Nadal negates John Isner's power to advance in Rome, Stefanos Tsitsipas survives

Rafa Nadal`s return to action after more than a month out due to injury saw him lose to teenager Carlos Alcaraz in the Madrid quarter-finals but the 21-times Grand Slam champion always knew it would take some time for his "old machine" to fire up.

The Spaniard, sidelined by a rib injury at Indian Wells in March, hopes to build momentum in Rome before launching his campaign for a 14th French Open crown.

The 35-year-old Australian Open champion has endured a string of injuries during a career spanning more than two decades and he said he needed time to get his body up to speed.

"When you`re six weeks without touching a racquet and having the chance to move your body ... my body is like an old machine. To put this machine on again it takes some time," Nadal told reporters before the Italian Open.

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"It`s not the same when you`re 19 than when you are almost 36, with all the issues I went through in my career. You need to build again the confidence, your movements, then you start feeling comfortable with your tennis.

"It`s more about being confident with my movements, recover the speed, recover the way that I have to play on clay and let`s see. I`m confident that I can play well. I need time, but maybe this week can be a positive week, maybe not. Who knows?"

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Nadal, a winner of three titles this year, lost to Novak Djokovic in the Roland Garros semi-finals last year, just the third time he was beaten at the claycourt major since his debut there in 2005.

The Spaniard said he was doing all he can to be fully ready for the tournament, which starts on May 22.

"That`s my goal ... I didn`t have another chance to approach this claycourt season with the things I went through," he said. "I`m going to give myself a chance and we`ll see what`s going on."

Rafa Nadal`s return to action after more than a month out due to injury saw him lose to teenager Carlos Alcaraz in the Madrid quarter-finals but the 21-times Grand Slam champion always knew it would take some time for his "old machine" to fire up.

Rafa Nadal`s return to action after more than a month out due to injury saw him lose to teenager Carlos Alcaraz in the Madrid quarter-finals but the 21-times Grand Slam champion always knew it would take some time for his "old machine" to fire up. The Spaniard, sidelined by a rib injury at Indian Wells in March, hopes to build momentum in Rome before launching his campaign for a 14th French Open crown. The 35-year-old Australian Open champion has endured a string of injuries during a career spanning more than two decades and he said he needed time to get his body up to speed. "When you`re six weeks without touching a racquet and having the chance to move your body ... my body is like an old machine. To put this machine on again it takes some time," Nadal told reporters before the Italian Open. Also Read: Beating Nadal, Djokovic to winning Madrid Open: Meet Carlos Alcaraz, the new teen star on the block! "It`s not the same when you`re 19 than when you are almost 36, with all the issues I went through in my career. You need to build again the confidence, your movements, then you start feeling comfortable with your tennis. "It`s more about being confident with my movements, recover the speed, recover the way that I have to play on clay and let`s see. I`m confident that I can play well. I need time, but maybe this week can be a positive week, maybe not. Who knows?" Also Read: Novak Djokovic and other tennis greats hail Carlos Alcaraz after his memorable Madrid Open triumph Nadal, a winner of three titles this year, lost to Novak Djokovic in the Roland Garros semi-finals last year, just the third time he was beaten at the claycourt major since his debut there in 2005. The Spaniard said he was doing all he can to be fully ready for the tournament, which starts on May 22. "That`s my goal ... I didn`t have another chance to approach this claycourt season with the things I went through," he said. "I`m going to give myself a chance and we`ll see what`s going on."

Rafael Nadal says his body is like an 'old machine' takes time to fire up

Teenager Carlos Alcaraz prevailed 6-2 1-6 6-3 over Rafa Nadal in a Spanish clash of the generations at the Madrid Open on Friday, claiming his first victory over his idol and setting up a semi-final showdown with world number one Novak Djokovic.

In a topsy-turvy contest at the Manolo Santana Stadium, Alcaraz weathered an ankle injury to produce a statement performance to become the first Spanish player to beat Nadal since Fernando Verdasco at the 2016 Australian Open.

"It means a lot to me. All the hard work I put in every day has paid off. To beat Rafa - the best player in history on clay - it means a lot," Alcaraz said.

Alcaraz endured a straight-sets loss to Nadal in Madrid a year ago on his 18th birthday, winning only three games as a 120th-ranked wildcard. The pair met again in March in the Indian Wells semi-finals where the older Spaniard won in three sets but not before Alcaraz underlined his huge potential. A day after turning 19, he finally exacted revenge on his 35-year-old compatriot.

Alcaraz dominated in the opening set and dictated the points but twisted his ankle in the second when trying to reach for a game-winning forehand. Nadal took advantage of the stumble to cruise past the younger Spaniard after play was briefly suspended when a spectator was taken unwell.

Nadal looked set to carry the momentum into the decider but Alcaraz rediscovered his form and held his nerve to see off the challenge from the 21-times Grand Slam champion.

"The fall in the second set affected me a lot," Alcaraz added. "When I lost the second (set), I went to the bathroom and thought I was able to come back to do my best and try everything.

"I wanted to fight until the last ball and that was the key."

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Alcaraz will face Djokovic, who eased 6-3 6-4 past Hubert Hurkacz earlier, for a place in the final and joked that he would turn to Argentine David Nalbandian for advice on how to topple the Serb.

At the 2007 tournament, an unseeded Nalbandian overcame overwhelming odds and achieved the rare feat of beating the Big Three of Nadal, Djokovic and Roger Federer in the quarter-finals, semi-finals and final, respectively. 
"I will text Nalbandian on how he did it," Alcaraz said. "I`m focusing on tomorrow... I will fight and let`s see what happens."

Bidding for his fourth title in the Spanish capital, Djokovic looked much more like his usual self against Hurkacz as he continued to work his way back towards top form ahead of the French Open, which begins later this month.

The 34-year-old was given a walkover into the quarter-finals when opponent Andy Murray withdrew from their highly anticipated clash due to illness and the top-seeded Serb got straight down to business against Hurkacz.

Djokovic triumphed after an hour and 20 minutes and sent down 16 winners while he did not face a break point from Hurkacz, and extended his perfect record against the Pole to 4-0.

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Greek fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas outlasted sixth seed Andrey Rublev 6-3 2-6 6-4 to seal his spot in the semi-finals, where he will face either defending champion Alexander Zverev or Felix Auger-Aliassime.

"It wasn`t easy playing him, it was tough to predict what`s coming next from him," Tsitsipas, who won the Monte Carlo Masters last month, said.

The win was also Tsitsipas` 27th of the season -- more than any other player on the ATP Tour -- as he improved his claycourt record in 2022 to 10-1.

Teenager Carlos Alcaraz prevailed 6-2 1-6 6-3 over Rafa Nadal in a Spanish clash of the generations at the Madrid Open on Friday, claiming his first victory over his idol and setting up a semi-final showdown with world number one Novak Djokovic.

Teenager Carlos Alcaraz prevailed 6-2 1-6 6-3 over Rafa Nadal in a Spanish clash of the generations at the Madrid Open on Friday, claiming his first victory over his idol and setting up a semi-final showdown with world number one Novak Djokovic. In a topsy-turvy contest at the Manolo Santana Stadium, Alcaraz weathered an ankle injury to produce a statement performance to become the first Spanish player to beat Nadal since Fernando Verdasco at the 2016 Australian Open. "It means a lot to me. All the hard work I put in every day has paid off. To beat Rafa - the best player in history on clay - it means a lot," Alcaraz said. Alcaraz endured a straight-sets loss to Nadal in Madrid a year ago on his 18th birthday, winning only three games as a 120th-ranked wildcard. The pair met again in March in the Indian Wells semi-finals where the older Spaniard won in three sets but not before Alcaraz underlined his huge potential. A day after turning 19, he finally exacted revenge on his 35-year-old compatriot. Alcaraz dominated in the opening set and dictated the points but twisted his ankle in the second when trying to reach for a game-winning forehand. Nadal took advantage of the stumble to cruise past the younger Spaniard after play was briefly suspended when a spectator was taken unwell. Nadal looked set to carry the momentum into the decider but Alcaraz rediscovered his form and held his nerve to see off the challenge from the 21-times Grand Slam champion. "The fall in the second set affected me a lot," Alcaraz added. "When I lost the second (set), I went to the bathroom and thought I was able to come back to do my best and try everything. "I wanted to fight until the last ball and that was the key." Also Read: World No. 1 Novak Djokovic beats Hubert Hurkacz to reach semi-finals in Madrid Alcaraz will face Djokovic, who eased 6-3 6-4 past Hubert Hurkacz earlier, for a place in the final and joked that he would turn to Argentine David Nalbandian for advice on how to topple the Serb. At the 2007 tournament, an unseeded Nalbandian overcame overwhelming odds and achieved the rare feat of beating the Big Three of Nadal, Djokovic and Roger Federer in the quarter-finals, semi-finals and final, respectively. "I will text Nalbandian on how he did it," Alcaraz said. "I`m focusing on tomorrow... I will fight and let`s see what happens." Bidding for his fourth title in the Spanish capital, Djokovic looked much more like his usual self against Hurkacz as he continued to work his way back towards top form ahead of the French Open, which begins later this month. The 34-year-old was given a walkover into the quarter-finals when opponent Andy Murray withdrew from their highly anticipated clash due to illness and the top-seeded Serb got straight down to business against Hurkacz. Djokovic triumphed after an hour and 20 minutes and sent down 16 winners while he did not face a break point from Hurkacz, and extended his perfect record against the Pole to 4-0. Also Read: Six players receive lengthy bans after Spanish courts find them guilty of match-fixing Greek fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas outlasted sixth seed Andrey Rublev 6-3 2-6 6-4 to seal his spot in the semi-finals, where he will face either defending champion Alexander Zverev or Felix Auger-Aliassime. "It wasn`t easy playing him, it was tough to predict what`s coming next from him," Tsitsipas, who won the Monte Carlo Masters last month, said. The win was also Tsitsipas` 27th of the season -- more than any other player on the ATP Tour -- as he improved his claycourt record in 2022 to 10-1.

Carlos Alcaraz upsets idol Rafael Nadal to set up semi-final date with Novak Djokovic in Madrid Open

Rafa Nadal said he will be the underdog when the 21-times Grand Slam champion faces teenager Carlos Alcaraz on Friday in a battle between the Spaniards in the Madrid Open quarter-finals. Australian Open champion Nadal is playing his first tournament since picking up a rib injury at Indian Wells in March and expects a "very tough" test against the 19-year-old.

"I think that today, he is better than me and he has a good dynamic, a good momentum," said Nadal, who saved four match points to overcome David Goffin 6-3 5-7 7-6(9) on Thursday. "I think that Alcaraz is in a better physical state of mind, is more fit ... he`s younger, so he has that extra energy. I`m clear who, from the beginning, has some kind of advantage in tomorrow`s match."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/madrid-open-jessica-pegula-triumphs-over-jil-teichmann-to-set-title-showdown-vs-ons-jabeur-476809">Madrid Open: Jessica Pegula triumphs over Jil Teichmann to set title showdown vs Ons Jabeur</a>

Alcaraz, who beat Cameron Norrie 6-4 6-7(4) 6-3 to set up a third career meeting with Nadal, has drawn comparisons with his compatriot after winning three titles this year and entering the world top 10. "He is the best player in the world on clay ... even though he says that I`m the favourite, that he`s not fit enough ... you always have to think of Rafa as the favorite because he has already won here five times," said Alcaraz, who lost their previous two meetings.

"Of course I dream and I fight to be the best one. As I already said, to be the best one you have to beat the best ones and the best. I think I`m ready to achieve that ultimate goal."

Rafa Nadal said he will be the underdog when the 21-times Grand Slam champion faces teenager Carlos Alcaraz on Friday in a battle between the Spaniards in the Madrid Open quarter-finals.

Rafa Nadal said he will be the underdog when the 21-times Grand Slam champion faces teenager Carlos Alcaraz on Friday in a battle between the Spaniards in the Madrid Open quarter-finals. Australian Open champion Nadal is playing his first tournament since picking up a rib injury at Indian Wells in March and expects a "very tough" test against the 19-year-old. "I think that today, he is better than me and he has a good dynamic, a good momentum," said Nadal, who saved four match points to overcome David Goffin 6-3 5-7 7-6(9) on Thursday. "I think that Alcaraz is in a better physical state of mind, is more fit ... he`s younger, so he has that extra energy. I`m clear who, from the beginning, has some kind of advantage in tomorrow`s match." ALSO READ | Madrid Open: Jessica Pegula triumphs over Jil Teichmann to set title showdown vs Ons Jabeur Alcaraz, who beat Cameron Norrie 6-4 6-7(4) 6-3 to set up a third career meeting with Nadal, has drawn comparisons with his compatriot after winning three titles this year and entering the world top 10. "He is the best player in the world on clay ... even though he says that I`m the favourite, that he`s not fit enough ... you always have to think of Rafa as the favorite because he has already won here five times," said Alcaraz, who lost their previous two meetings. "Of course I dream and I fight to be the best one. As I already said, to be the best one you have to beat the best ones and the best. I think I`m ready to achieve that ultimate goal."

Madrid Open: Advantage Carlos Alcaraz in quarter-final, says Spaniard Rafael Nadal

Rafa Nadal returned from an injury layoff to beat Miomir Kecmanovic 6-1 7-6(4) on Wednesday and reach the last 16 in the Madrid Open claycourt tournament. Nadal, competing in his first match since March following a rib injury, quickly found his rhythm in a strong start against Serbian Kecmanovic.

Rain suspended play early in the second set and 21-times Grand Slam champion Nadal lost momentum. 
The 35-year-old Spaniard, hitting with explosive power, recovered from failing to serve out the match at 6-5 in the second set to seal victory in just under two hours. Nadal, who improved his win-loss record to 21-1 for the season, is aiming to win his sixth title on home soil in Madrid having last won the tournament in 2017, and will next play qualifier David Goffin.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/madrid-open-world-no-1-novak-djokovic-stays-perfect-against-gael-monfils-emma-raducanu-knocked-out-476357">Madrid Open: World No. 1 Novak Djokovic stays perfect against Gael Monfils, Emma Raducanu knocked out</a>

Earlier, world number three Alexander Zverev overcame a slow start to beat Marin Cilic 4-6 6-4 6-4, while qualifier Dusan Lajovic beat fifth seed Casper Ruud 7-6(7) 2-6 6-4. Greece`s Stefanos Tsitsipas is due to face Lucas Pouille later.

In the women`s draw, Tunisian Ons Jabeur reached her second WTA 1000 semi-final after beating former world number one Simona Halep 6-3 6-2. Jabeur won 77.8% points on her first serve and converted four of five break points against twice champion Halep to seal victory in just over an hour. 
World number 10 Jabeur will face qualifier Ekaterina Alexandrova for a spot in her first WTA 1000 final after Alexandrova defeated Amanda Anisimova 6-4 6-3.

Swiss Jil Teichmann beat Ukraine`s Anhelina Kalinina 6-3 6-4 and will face the winner of the match between Sara Sorribes Tormo of Spain and American Jessica Pegula.

Rafa Nadal returned from an injury layoff to beat Miomir Kecmanovic 6-1 7-6(4) on Wednesday and reach the last 16 in the Madrid Open claycourt tournament. Nadal, competing in his first match since March following a rib injury, quickly found his rhythm in a strong start against Serbian Kecmanovic.

Rafa Nadal returned from an injury layoff to beat Miomir Kecmanovic 6-1 7-6(4) on Wednesday and reach the last 16 in the Madrid Open claycourt tournament. Nadal, competing in his first match since March following a rib injury, quickly found his rhythm in a strong start against Serbian Kecmanovic. Rain suspended play early in the second set and 21-times Grand Slam champion Nadal lost momentum. The 35-year-old Spaniard, hitting with explosive power, recovered from failing to serve out the match at 6-5 in the second set to seal victory in just under two hours. Nadal, who improved his win-loss record to 21-1 for the season, is aiming to win his sixth title on home soil in Madrid having last won the tournament in 2017, and will next play qualifier David Goffin. ALSO READ | Madrid Open: World No. 1 Novak Djokovic stays perfect against Gael Monfils, Emma Raducanu knocked out Earlier, world number three Alexander Zverev overcame a slow start to beat Marin Cilic 4-6 6-4 6-4, while qualifier Dusan Lajovic beat fifth seed Casper Ruud 7-6(7) 2-6 6-4. Greece`s Stefanos Tsitsipas is due to face Lucas Pouille later. In the women`s draw, Tunisian Ons Jabeur reached her second WTA 1000 semi-final after beating former world number one Simona Halep 6-3 6-2. Jabeur won 77.8% points on her first serve and converted four of five break points against twice champion Halep to seal victory in just over an hour. World number 10 Jabeur will face qualifier Ekaterina Alexandrova for a spot in her first WTA 1000 final after Alexandrova defeated Amanda Anisimova 6-4 6-3. Swiss Jil Teichmann beat Ukraine`s Anhelina Kalinina 6-3 6-4 and will face the winner of the match between Sara Sorribes Tormo of Spain and American Jessica Pegula.

Rafael Nadal overpowers Serbia's Miomir Kecmanovic in Madrid on return from injury

Australian Open champion Rafa Nadal will make his return from a month-long absence due to injury at this week`s ATP Masters 1000 Madrid Open that begins later this week, the Spaniard announced on Tuesday. 
The 35-year-old, who last played in the final of Indian Wells against Taylor Fritz on March 20, suffered a stress fracture in his rib during the tournament, forcing him to miss claycourt events in Monte Carlo and Barcelona. "Despite arriving just before the tournament and preparation being difficult, I really want to play at home since the opportunities are few," Nadal wrote on Twitter. "So I`m going to try to do it in the best way I can. See you in Madrid."

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A pesar de llegar justo de preparación y ser difícil, tengo muchas ganas de jugar y jugar en casa ya que las oportunidades son pocas. 
A tratar de hacerlo de la mejor manera posible 💪🏻 
 
Nos vemos en Madrid 😉 <a href="https://t.co/tiD5m6lWle">pic.twitter.com/tiD5m6lWle</a>
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal/status/1518955177939808256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-defends-ban-on-russian-players-confirms-covid-vaccination-not-mandatory-for-participation-474035">Wimbledon defends ban on Russian players, confirms Covid vaccination not mandatory for participation</a>

The former world number`s one return to action comes little under a month before the French Open, where he will be bidding for a record-extending 14th title. The claycourt major gets underway on May 22.

Australian Open champion Rafa Nadal will make his return from a month-long absence due to injury at this week`s ATP Masters 1000 Madrid Open that begins later this week, the Spaniard announced on Tuesday.

Australian Open champion Rafa Nadal will make his return from a month-long absence due to injury at this week`s ATP Masters 1000 Madrid Open that begins later this week, the Spaniard announced on Tuesday. The 35-year-old, who last played in the final of Indian Wells against Taylor Fritz on March 20, suffered a stress fracture in his rib during the tournament, forcing him to miss claycourt events in Monte Carlo and Barcelona. "Despite arriving just before the tournament and preparation being difficult, I really want to play at home since the opportunities are few," Nadal wrote on Twitter. "So I`m going to try to do it in the best way I can. See you in Madrid." A pesar de llegar justo de preparación y ser difícil, tengo muchas ganas de jugar y jugar en casa ya que las oportunidades son pocas. A tratar de hacerlo de la mejor manera posible 💪🏻 Nos vemos en Madrid 😉 pic.twitter.com/tiD5m6lWle — Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) April 26, 2022 × ALSO READ | Wimbledon defends ban on Russian players, confirms Covid vaccination not mandatory for participation The former world number`s one return to action comes little under a month before the French Open, where he will be bidding for a record-extending 14th title. The claycourt major gets underway on May 22.

World No. 4 Rafael Nadal to make injury return at Madrid Open

Rafael Nadal, who has been in terrific form in the calendar year, has been dealt with a huge blow. The Spaniard has been ruled out of action for six weeks due to a stress fracture as the veteran player announced the news on Tuesday evening (March 22).

So far in 2022, Nadal has won the Australian Open and recently saw his 20-match unbeaten streak come to an end with a loss in the final of this year's&nbsp;Indian Wells Masters to&nbsp;Taylor Fritz 3-6 6-7 (5-7) on March 20 (Sunday). Soon after the summit clash defeat, the 35-year-old took to his Twitter handle to share an update on his fitness with his fans worldwide:

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-wells-taylor-fritz-ends-rafael-nadals-20-match-unbeaten-streak-in-2022-to-secure-mens-singles-title-464256">Indian Wells: Taylor Fritz ends Rafael Nadal's 20-match unbeaten streak in 2022 to secure men's singles title</a>

Nadal wrote on Twitter, "Hello everyone, I wanted to announce that I have returned to Spain and I immediately went to visit my medical team to do the tests after the Indian Wells final that I played with discomfort.

"As it turns out, I have a stress crack in one of my ribs and will be out for 4-6 weeks. This is not good news and I did not expect this. I am sunk and sad because after the start of the season I have had such a good time.

I reached a very important part of the year with very good feelings and good results. But hey, I've always had that fighting and overcoming spirit and what I will do is be patient and work hard after my recovery. Once again thank everyone for the support," he added.

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Hola todos, quería anunciaros que he vuelto a España y fui enseguida a visitar a mi equipo médico para hacerme las pruebas tras la final de Indian Wells que jugué con molestias.
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal/status/1506273644917530629?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Llegaba a una parte muy importante del año con muy buenas sensaciones y buenos resultados. Pero bueno, siempre he tenido ese espíritu de lucha y superación y lo que sí haré es tener paciencia y trabajar duro tras mi recuperación. Una vez más agradecer a todos el apoyo.
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal/status/1506273647169839105?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Al final resulta que tengo una fisura por estrés en una de las costillas y estaré entre 4 y 6 semanas de baja. No son buenas noticias y no me esperaba esto. Estoy hundido y triste porque tras el inicio de temporada que he tenido tan buena.
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal/status/1506273646184177672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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This is a huge blow for Nadal and his ardent fans ahead of the clay-court season. For the unversed, the French Open 2022 will get underway on May 22. Hence, the World No. 3 player still has time to recover but will be desperate to regain full fitness in order to try and further extend his Grand Slam tally. In January 2022, he became the first male tennis player to win 21 Grand Slam titles.

Rafael Nadal, who has been in terrific form in the calendar year, has been dealt with a huge blow. The Spaniard has been ruled out of action for six weeks due to a stress fracture as the veteran player announced the news on Tuesday evening (March 22).

Rafael Nadal, who has been in terrific form in the calendar year, has been dealt with a huge blow. The Spaniard has been ruled out of action for six weeks due to a stress fracture as the veteran player announced the news on Tuesday evening (March 22). So far in 2022, Nadal has won the Australian Open and recently saw his 20-match unbeaten streak come to an end with a loss in the final of this year's Indian Wells Masters to Taylor Fritz 3-6 6-7 (5-7) on March 20 (Sunday). Soon after the summit clash defeat, the 35-year-old took to his Twitter handle to share an update on his fitness with his fans worldwide: ALSO READ | Indian Wells: Taylor Fritz ends Rafael Nadal's 20-match unbeaten streak in 2022 to secure men's singles title Nadal wrote on Twitter, "Hello everyone, I wanted to announce that I have returned to Spain and I immediately went to visit my medical team to do the tests after the Indian Wells final that I played with discomfort. "As it turns out, I have a stress crack in one of my ribs and will be out for 4-6 weeks. This is not good news and I did not expect this. I am sunk and sad because after the start of the season I have had such a good time. I reached a very important part of the year with very good feelings and good results. But hey, I've always had that fighting and overcoming spirit and what I will do is be patient and work hard after my recovery. Once again thank everyone for the support," he added. Hola todos, quería anunciaros que he vuelto a España y fui enseguida a visitar a mi equipo médico para hacerme las pruebas tras la final de Indian Wells que jugué con molestias. — Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) March 22, 2022 × Llegaba a una parte muy importante del año con muy buenas sensaciones y buenos resultados. Pero bueno, siempre he tenido ese espíritu de lucha y superación y lo que sí haré es tener paciencia y trabajar duro tras mi recuperación. Una vez más agradecer a todos el apoyo. — Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) March 22, 2022 × Al final resulta que tengo una fisura por estrés en una de las costillas y estaré entre 4 y 6 semanas de baja. No son buenas noticias y no me esperaba esto. Estoy hundido y triste porque tras el inicio de temporada que he tenido tan buena. — Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) March 22, 2022 × This is a huge blow for Nadal and his ardent fans ahead of the clay-court season. For the unversed, the French Open 2022 will get underway on May 22. Hence, the World No. 3 player still has time to recover but will be desperate to regain full fitness in order to try and further extend his Grand Slam tally. In January 2022, he became the first male tennis player to win 21 Grand Slam titles.

Rafael Nadal out of action for six weeks with stress fracture ahead of French Open 2022

The 20-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic regained the World No. 1 spot in the ATP rankings released on Monday despite not featuring in Indian Wells.

The Serbian tennis star lost the number one spot in ATP rankings to Daniil Medvedev on February 28 as the Russian became the 27th player to reach No. 1 in the world.

But after Gael Monfils defeated Medvedev in the second round at the Indian Wells Masters, Djokovic has regained the number one spot.

The Serbian currently stands on top with 8465 points while Medvedev stands on the second spot with 8445 points.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-wells-taylor-fritz-ends-rafael-nadals-20-match-unbeaten-streak-in-2022-to-secure-mens-singles-title-464256">Indian Wells: Taylor Fritz ends Rafael Nadal's 20-match unbeaten streak in 2022 to secure men's singles title</a>

Djokovic has only played one tournament this year. He played his first tournament of 2022 in Dubai where he lost to the Czech Republic's Jiri Vesely 4-6, 6-7(4) in the quarter-final.

Rafael Nadal, who lost to Taylor Fritz in the Indian wells final, has returned to the top three in the rankings.

The World No.4 Rafael Nadal's unbeaten streak of 20 matches in 2022 came to an end as the 21-time grand slam champion lost to America's Taylor Fritz 3-6 6-7 (5-7) in the final of Indian Wells.

The 20-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic regained the World No. 1 spot in the ATP rankings released on Monday despite not featuring in Indian Wells. The Serbian tennis star lost the number one spot in ATP rankings to Daniil Medvedev on February 28 as the Russian became the 27th player to reach No.

The 20-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic regained the World No. 1 spot in the ATP rankings released on Monday despite not featuring in Indian Wells. The Serbian tennis star lost the number one spot in ATP rankings to Daniil Medvedev on February 28 as the Russian became the 27th player to reach No. 1 in the world. But after Gael Monfils defeated Medvedev in the second round at the Indian Wells Masters, Djokovic has regained the number one spot. The Serbian currently stands on top with 8465 points while Medvedev stands on the second spot with 8445 points. ALSO READ: Indian Wells: Taylor Fritz ends Rafael Nadal's 20-match unbeaten streak in 2022 to secure men's singles title Djokovic has only played one tournament this year. He played his first tournament of 2022 in Dubai where he lost to the Czech Republic's Jiri Vesely 4-6, 6-7(4) in the quarter-final. Rafael Nadal, who lost to Taylor Fritz in the Indian wells final, has returned to the top three in the rankings. The World No.4 Rafael Nadal's unbeaten streak of 20 matches in 2022 came to an end as the 21-time grand slam champion lost to America's Taylor Fritz 3-6 6-7 (5-7) in the final of Indian Wells.

ATP Rankings: Daniil Medvedev loses World No. 1 spot to Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal back in top 3

World No.4 Rafael Nadal's unbeaten streak of 20 matches in the year 2022 came to an end as the 21-time grand slam champion lost to local lad Taylor Fritz 3-6 6-7 (5-7) in the final here at the Indian Wells.

The 35-year-old Spaniard looked a pale shadow of his own self as he was quickly 0-4 down before leaving the court for treatment.

After the treatment, he looked much better but could not save the opening set as the Californian lad pocketed it 6-3 to go one set-up.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-wells-usas-jack-sock-john-isner-win-mens-doubles-championship-claim-their-second-title-together-463992">Indian Wells: USA's Jack Sock, John Isner win men's doubles crown, claim their second title together</a>

In the second set, the reigning Australian Open champion had two break points at 5-5 but the American Taylor Fritz fought his way back to make win the tie-breaker as well as the match in straight sets.

In this match, Nadal made 34 unforced errors as compared to 22 from Fritz.

Taylor Fritz becomes the first American to win at Indian Wells since Andre Agassi in 2001.

Fritz was also the first American to reach the final of the event since John Isner in 2012.

World No.4 Rafael Nadal's unbeaten streak of 20 matches in the year 2022 came to an end as the 21-time grand slam champion lost to local lad Taylor Fritz 3-6 6-7 (5-7) in the final here at the Indian Wells.

World No.4 Rafael Nadal's unbeaten streak of 20 matches in the year 2022 came to an end as the 21-time grand slam champion lost to local lad Taylor Fritz 3-6 6-7 (5-7) in the final here at the Indian Wells. The 35-year-old Spaniard looked a pale shadow of his own self as he was quickly 0-4 down before leaving the court for treatment. After the treatment, he looked much better but could not save the opening set as the Californian lad pocketed it 6-3 to go one set-up. ALSO READ: Indian Wells: USA's Jack Sock, John Isner win men's doubles crown, claim their second title together In the second set, the reigning Australian Open champion had two break points at 5-5 but the American Taylor Fritz fought his way back to make win the tie-breaker as well as the match in straight sets. In this match, Nadal made 34 unforced errors as compared to 22 from Fritz. Taylor Fritz becomes the first American to win at Indian Wells since Andre Agassi in 2001. Fritz was also the first American to reach the final of the event since John Isner in 2012.

Indian Wells: Taylor Fritz ends Rafael Nadal's 20-match unbeaten streak in 2022 to secure men's singles title

World No.4 Rafael Nadal beats compatriot Carlos Alcaraz 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 in the semi-final that lasted for three hours and 12 minutes to extend his year's unbeaten streak to 20 matches and set up a final clash with American Taylor Fritz here at the Indian Wells.

The 21-time grand slam champion Nadal won the opening set 6-4 to go one set up but the 18-year-old Alcaraz turned it around in the second set to win it with a similar scoreline as the first set to make it one set apiece and the match went to the decider where the experience of Nadal proved to be handy as he clinched the third and final set 6-3.

Nadal's win over Alcaraz was his 954th on outdoor courts, becoming the most successful player in the Open era and breaking Roger Federer's record on 953.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-wells-xu-yifan-yang-zhaoxuan-crowned-womens-doubles-champions-claim-their-first-wta-tour-title-463975">Indian Wells: Xu Yifan, Yang Zhaoxuan crowned women's doubles champions, claim first WTA Tour title</a>

The reigning Australian Open champion will be playing his 53rd Masters 1000 final.

Nadal is also just one win away from equalling Novak Djokovic's record of 37 ATP Masters 1000 titles.

The 35-year-old Spaniard will face 20th seeded Taylor Fritz from America in the final who defeated seventh seed Andrey Rublev of Russia 7-5, 6-4 ending his 13-match winning streak.

The 24-year old Fritz will be aiming to become the first American men's champion at Indian Wells since Andre Agassi in 2001.

World No.4 Rafael Nadal beats compatriot Carlos Alcaraz 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 in the semi-final that lasted for three hours and 12 minutes to extend his year's unbeaten streak to 20 matches and set up a final clash with American Taylor Fritz here at the Indian Wells.

World No.4 Rafael Nadal beats compatriot Carlos Alcaraz 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 in the semi-final that lasted for three hours and 12 minutes to extend his year's unbeaten streak to 20 matches and set up a final clash with American Taylor Fritz here at the Indian Wells. The 21-time grand slam champion Nadal won the opening set 6-4 to go one set up but the 18-year-old Alcaraz turned it around in the second set to win it with a similar scoreline as the first set to make it one set apiece and the match went to the decider where the experience of Nadal proved to be handy as he clinched the third and final set 6-3. Nadal's win over Alcaraz was his 954th on outdoor courts, becoming the most successful player in the Open era and breaking Roger Federer's record on 953. ALSO READ: Indian Wells: Xu Yifan, Yang Zhaoxuan crowned women's doubles champions, claim first WTA Tour title The reigning Australian Open champion will be playing his 53rd Masters 1000 final. Nadal is also just one win away from equalling Novak Djokovic's record of 37 ATP Masters 1000 titles. The 35-year-old Spaniard will face 20th seeded Taylor Fritz from America in the final who defeated seventh seed Andrey Rublev of Russia 7-5, 6-4 ending his 13-match winning streak. The 24-year old Fritz will be aiming to become the first American men's champion at Indian Wells since Andre Agassi in 2001.

Indian Wells: Rafael Nadal beats Alcaraz to set up final against Taylor Fritz, extends unbeaten streak

World No.4 Rafael Nadal beats Australia`s Nick Kyrgios 7-6 (7-0), 5-7, 6-4 to set up a semi-final clash with 18-year-old compatriot Carlos Alcaraz here at the Indian Wells. The 21-time grand slam champion won his 19th consecutive match since the start of the year with a win over the Australian.

In the opening set, Kyrgios drew first blood, breaking Nadal to take a 2-1 lead. Kyrgios was broken when he was serving for the first set and was also warned for smashing his racquet.

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Nadal fought his way back to take the set to a tie-breaker but in the tie-break, the Spaniard won all the points to go one game up. The Australian World No. 132 clawed his way back winning the second set 5-7 to make it one set apiece and take the match to the decider. In the third and final set, the 35-year-old Spaniard held his nerve to win it 6-4 and set up a semi-final battle with his countrymen Carlos Alcaraz who defeated defending champion from Cameron Norrie of Great Britain. The 18-year old Alcaraz registered a comfortable 6-4, 6-3 win over the Norrie.&nbsp;

World No.4 Rafael Nadal beats Australia`s Nick Kyrgios 7-6 (7-0), 5-7, 6-4 to set up a semi-final clash with 18-year-old compatriot Carlos Alcaraz here at the Indian Wells.

World No.4 Rafael Nadal beats Australia`s Nick Kyrgios 7-6 (7-0), 5-7, 6-4 to set up a semi-final clash with 18-year-old compatriot Carlos Alcaraz here at the Indian Wells. The 21-time grand slam champion won his 19th consecutive match since the start of the year with a win over the Australian. In the opening set, Kyrgios drew first blood, breaking Nadal to take a 2-1 lead. Kyrgios was broken when he was serving for the first set and was also warned for smashing his racquet. ALSO READ | Indian Wells: Rafael Nadal extends unbeaten streak to 18 after beating USA's Reilly Opelka to enter quarters Nadal fought his way back to take the set to a tie-breaker but in the tie-break, the Spaniard won all the points to go one game up. The Australian World No. 132 clawed his way back winning the second set 5-7 to make it one set apiece and take the match to the decider. In the third and final set, the 35-year-old Spaniard held his nerve to win it 6-4 and set up a semi-final battle with his countrymen Carlos Alcaraz who defeated defending champion from Cameron Norrie of Great Britain. The 18-year old Alcaraz registered a comfortable 6-4, 6-3 win over the Norrie.

Indian Wells: Rafael Nadal extends unbeaten streak to 19 after going past Nick Kyrgios, enters semis

Rafael Nadal continued his unbeaten run in 2022 as he extended his winning streak to 18 matches on trot after beating Reilly Opelka of America in two tight sets both going to tie-breaks to enter the quarter-final here at the Indian Wells.

The 21-time grand slam champion Nadal won 7-6 (7/3), 7-6 (7/5). The 35-year-old Spaniard became just the second player to start a season 18-0 after Novak Djokovic who has done it twice starting 41-0 in 2011 and 26-0 in 2020.

The Spaniard surpassed Pete Sampras'&nbsp;and Roger Federer's record of 17 wins in 1997 and 2018 respectively.

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In the quarterfinals, the reigning Australian Open champion will lock horns against Australia's Nick Kyrgios, who got a walkover from Jannik Sinner due to illness. Nadal leads 5-3 against the Australian in head-to-head encounters.

Defending champion Cameron Norrie continued his Indian Wells title defence with a win over Jenson Brooksby of America to reach the quarter-finals.

World no.12 Norrie from Great Britain beats Jenson Brooksby of America 6-2 6-4 to enter last-8. Norrie will take on 18-year-old Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz, who defeated Gael Monfils of France 7-5 6-1.

Rafael Nadal continued his unbeaten run in 2022 as he extended his winning streak to 18 matches on trot after beating Reilly Opelka of America in two tight sets both going to tie-breaks to enter the quarter-final here at the Indian Wells.

Rafael Nadal continued his unbeaten run in 2022 as he extended his winning streak to 18 matches on trot after beating Reilly Opelka of America in two tight sets both going to tie-breaks to enter the quarter-final here at the Indian Wells. The 21-time grand slam champion Nadal won 7-6 (7/3), 7-6 (7/5). The 35-year-old Spaniard became just the second player to start a season 18-0 after Novak Djokovic who has done it twice starting 41-0 in 2011 and 26-0 in 2020. The Spaniard surpassed Pete Sampras' and Roger Federer's record of 17 wins in 1997 and 2018 respectively. ALSO READ: ISL: Kerala edge past League Shield winner Jamshedpur 2-1 over two legs to book first final berth since 2016 In the quarterfinals, the reigning Australian Open champion will lock horns against Australia's Nick Kyrgios, who got a walkover from Jannik Sinner due to illness. Nadal leads 5-3 against the Australian in head-to-head encounters. Defending champion Cameron Norrie continued his Indian Wells title defence with a win over Jenson Brooksby of America to reach the quarter-finals. World no.12 Norrie from Great Britain beats Jenson Brooksby of America 6-2 6-4 to enter last-8. Norrie will take on 18-year-old Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz, who defeated Gael Monfils of France 7-5 6-1.

Indian Wells: Rafael Nadal extends unbeaten streak to 18 after beating USA's Reilly Opelka to enter quarters

Australian Open champion Rafael Nadal said he felt sorry for Naomi Osaka after she was rattled by a heckler during her second-round loss on Saturday night at Indian Wells, but added that tennis players needed to be ready to deal with adversities.

Osaka, who sparked a conversation about mental health in sports last year with her withdrawal from the French Open, was thrown off her game and began to cry after a person screamed, "Naomi, you suck!" early on in her 6-0 6-4 loss to Veronika Kudermetova.

After the match, Osaka spoke directly to the otherwise supportive crowd, saying the incident reminded her of the abuse Venus and Serena Williams received at the tournament in 2001, which led them to boycott the event for more than a decade.

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"In the real world, that happens, you know? I feel very sorry for her," Nadal said after his 7-5 6-3 win over Daniel Evans on Monday. "We are very lucky people that we're able to enjoy amazing experiences ... because we are tennis players.

"Even if is terrible to hear ... we need to be prepared for that, no? We need to resist these kind of issues that can happen when you are exposed to the people. Nothing is perfect in this life, no? We need to be ready for adversities."

"I understand that probably Naomi suffered a lot with these kind of issues that she has, mental (health) issues. The only thing that I wish her is recover well from that and wish her all the very best."

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Daniil Medvedev said he could understand Osaka's response to the heckling after he himself was booed and heckled by sections of the shamelessly pro-Nadal crowd during the Australian Open final in January.

"I felt not great in Australia," Medvedev said after his loss to Gael Monfils. "I can feel the fans that maybe say, what the hell? They're (players) getting millions. They should be ready for everything.

"At the same time we're humans. Sometimes we feel bad. Sometimes we feel good. I can understand that Naomi didn't feel that great when she heard it and I can completely understand her feelings."

Australian Open champion Rafael Nadal said he felt sorry for Naomi Osaka after she was rattled by a heckler during her second-round loss on Saturday night at Indian Wells, but added that tennis players needed to be ready to deal with adversities.

Australian Open champion Rafael Nadal said he felt sorry for Naomi Osaka after she was rattled by a heckler during her second-round loss on Saturday night at Indian Wells, but added that tennis players needed to be ready to deal with adversities. Osaka, who sparked a conversation about mental health in sports last year with her withdrawal from the French Open, was thrown off her game and began to cry after a person screamed, "Naomi, you suck!" early on in her 6-0 6-4 loss to Veronika Kudermetova. After the match, Osaka spoke directly to the otherwise supportive crowd, saying the incident reminded her of the abuse Venus and Serena Williams received at the tournament in 2001, which led them to boycott the event for more than a decade. ALSO READ: Indian Wells: Daniil Medvedev loses World No. 1 spot after shock loss to Gael Monfils, Rafael Nadal wins "In the real world, that happens, you know? I feel very sorry for her," Nadal said after his 7-5 6-3 win over Daniel Evans on Monday. "We are very lucky people that we're able to enjoy amazing experiences ... because we are tennis players. "Even if is terrible to hear ... we need to be prepared for that, no? We need to resist these kind of issues that can happen when you are exposed to the people. Nothing is perfect in this life, no? We need to be ready for adversities." "I understand that probably Naomi suffered a lot with these kind of issues that she has, mental (health) issues. The only thing that I wish her is recover well from that and wish her all the very best." ALSO READ: Stefanos Tsitsipas 'not very frustrated' from early Indian Wells exit Daniil Medvedev said he could understand Osaka's response to the heckling after he himself was booed and heckled by sections of the shamelessly pro-Nadal crowd during the Australian Open final in January. "I felt not great in Australia," Medvedev said after his loss to Gael Monfils. "I can feel the fans that maybe say, what the hell? They're (players) getting millions. They should be ready for everything. "At the same time we're humans. Sometimes we feel bad. Sometimes we feel good. I can understand that Naomi didn't feel that great when she heard it and I can completely understand her feelings."

Players need to build resilience to deal with hecklers, says Nadal after Osaka's tearful Indian Wells exit

Daniil Medvedev lost his world number one ranking after being defeated by Gael Monfils 4-6 6-3 6-1 in the third round of Indian Wells on Monday, while Rafael Nadal beat Britain's Daniel Evans 7-5 6-3 to stay unbeaten in 2022.

Monfils let out a roar as he secured the upset on the sixth match point in front of an adoring California crowd with a backhand winner to set up a meeting with Spanish teenager Carlos Alcaraz in the fourth round.

"I'm quite happy right now - I'm in my zone," Monfils said. "I moved quite good and then I changed the speed quite a lot."

The Frenchman handed Medvedev the break in the ninth game of the first set with a pair of double faults and two forehand errors, as the reigning U.S.

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Open champion dropped just four points on his serve in the opener.

But Medvedev lost the momentum in the second set, unable to convert on five of six break-point opportunities.

Monfils broke him in the fourth game with a backhand winner and again in the eighth with a fiery forehand.

Overcoming obvious exhaustion, Monfils won the first four games of the final set as Medvedev was unable to set up a single break point opportunity.

It was the first time in 13 years that the 35-year-old Monfils beat the number-one ranked player in the world.

Twenty-times Grand Slam winner Novak Djokovic is expected to return to the top of the world rankings when they are updated.

Nadal sent Evans packing with a routine win to extend his unbeaten streak this year to 17-0 after winning a men's record-breaking 21st Grand Slam title at the Australian Open.

Down an early break, the Spaniard levelled it in the eighth game and again broke Evans to close out the first set and seize the momentum.

He dropped just two first-serve points in the second set, breaking his opponent early and wrapping up his 400th Masters match win with a forehand winner before thrusting his hands in the air to cheers from the crowd.

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He reaches the fourth round after staging a breath-taking, three-set comeback on Saturday against American Sebastian Korda and said after the match he was pleased to wrap up Monday's affair in a tidier fashion.

"Happy to be able to keep going in the tournament," Nadal said. "I think after a few games I have been playing better and better."

Elsewhere on the men's side, Alcaraz beat fellow Spaniard Roberto Bautista Agut 6-2 6-0.

Daniil Medvedev lost his world number one ranking after being defeated by Gael Monfils 4-6 6-3 6-1 in the third round of Indian Wells on Monday, while Rafael Nadal beat Britain's Daniel Evans 7-5 6-3 to stay unbeaten in 2022.

Daniil Medvedev lost his world number one ranking after being defeated by Gael Monfils 4-6 6-3 6-1 in the third round of Indian Wells on Monday, while Rafael Nadal beat Britain's Daniel Evans 7-5 6-3 to stay unbeaten in 2022. Monfils let out a roar as he secured the upset on the sixth match point in front of an adoring California crowd with a backhand winner to set up a meeting with Spanish teenager Carlos Alcaraz in the fourth round. "I'm quite happy right now - I'm in my zone," Monfils said. "I moved quite good and then I changed the speed quite a lot." The Frenchman handed Medvedev the break in the ninth game of the first set with a pair of double faults and two forehand errors, as the reigning U.S. ALSO READ: International Kabaddi player Sandeep Singh Nangal shot dead in Punjab Open champion dropped just four points on his serve in the opener. But Medvedev lost the momentum in the second set, unable to convert on five of six break-point opportunities. Monfils broke him in the fourth game with a backhand winner and again in the eighth with a fiery forehand. Overcoming obvious exhaustion, Monfils won the first four games of the final set as Medvedev was unable to set up a single break point opportunity. It was the first time in 13 years that the 35-year-old Monfils beat the number-one ranked player in the world. Twenty-times Grand Slam winner Novak Djokovic is expected to return to the top of the world rankings when they are updated. Nadal sent Evans packing with a routine win to extend his unbeaten streak this year to 17-0 after winning a men's record-breaking 21st Grand Slam title at the Australian Open. Down an early break, the Spaniard levelled it in the eighth game and again broke Evans to close out the first set and seize the momentum. He dropped just two first-serve points in the second set, breaking his opponent early and wrapping up his 400th Masters match win with a forehand winner before thrusting his hands in the air to cheers from the crowd. ALSO READ: Caribbean Premier League 2022 to feature three-team women's tournament alongside men's He reaches the fourth round after staging a breath-taking, three-set comeback on Saturday against American Sebastian Korda and said after the match he was pleased to wrap up Monday's affair in a tidier fashion. "Happy to be able to keep going in the tournament," Nadal said. "I think after a few games I have been playing better and better." Elsewhere on the men's side, Alcaraz beat fellow Spaniard Roberto Bautista Agut 6-2 6-0.

Indian Wells: Daniil Medvedev loses World No. 1 spot after shock loss to Gael Monfils, Rafael Nadal wins

Rafael&nbsp;Nadal roared back from 5-2 down in the third set to defeat American Sebastian Korda 6-2 1-6 7-6(3) in the second round at Indian Wells on Saturday and remain unbeaten in 2022.

After cruising through the first set in 35 minutes, the Spaniard struggled to cope with a more aggressive approach from the 21-year-old who stormed through the second.

Nadal's normally solid serve let him down in the third and he committed his seventh double fault to fall two breaks down in front of a stunned crowd before fighting back to force a tiebreak.

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The veteran was then much more composed and sealed the win when Korda's backhand landed wide.

"Everyone knows this is my favourite place to play and it is amazing to play in front of all you guys," Nadal told the supportive crowd under blue skies in the Southern California desert.

"I feel very lucky today to be through. Sebastian was playing some fantastic tennis. He had his chances, but that's tennis."

The loss will sting for Korda, who grew up idolising the 21-time Grand Slam champion and even named his cat after him.

"He started playing a lot different," Korda said of Nadal's play after he fell behind 5-2 in the decider.

"He moved closer to the baseline. I could see that he was a little worried, changing up his tactics. I just didn't play good games, and he took advantage of it."

With the win, the three-time Indian Wells champion is now undefeated in 16 matches this year.

Before his match, Nadal announced that he would not compete at the Miami Open, which starts later this month.

Earlier on Saturday, newly-crowned world number one Daniil Medvedev dispatched Tomas Machac 6-3 6-2 to cruise into the third round.

Medvedev's powerful serve and almost impenetrable defence proved too much for the Czech qualifier to handle.

The Russian received a warm welcome from the crowd on Stadium One when he was introduced as the world's top men's player after the match. 
 
"This is the first time I have heard this and people clapped so thanks a lot for the nice welcome," Medvedev said.

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The 26-year-old U.S. Open champion is seeking his first win at the Masters 1000 tournament.

In other second round action, fifth-seeded Stefanos Tsitsipas edged Jack Sock 7-6(5) 3-6 7-6(5), wild card Nick Kyrgios stormed past Federico Delbonis 6-2 6-2 and rising stars Jenson Brooksby, Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz all advanced in straight sets.

Rafael Nadal roared back from 5-2 down in the third set to defeat American Sebastian Korda 6-2 1-6 7-6(3) in the second round at Indian Wells on Saturday and remain unbeaten in 2022.

Rafael Nadal roared back from 5-2 down in the third set to defeat American Sebastian Korda 6-2 1-6 7-6(3) in the second round at Indian Wells on Saturday and remain unbeaten in 2022. After cruising through the first set in 35 minutes, the Spaniard struggled to cope with a more aggressive approach from the 21-year-old who stormed through the second. Nadal's normally solid serve let him down in the third and he committed his seventh double fault to fall two breaks down in front of a stunned crowd before fighting back to force a tiebreak. ALSO READ: Premier League: Cristiano Ronaldo's hat-trick helps Man United secure 3-2 win over Tottenham Hotspur The veteran was then much more composed and sealed the win when Korda's backhand landed wide. "Everyone knows this is my favourite place to play and it is amazing to play in front of all you guys," Nadal told the supportive crowd under blue skies in the Southern California desert. "I feel very lucky today to be through. Sebastian was playing some fantastic tennis. He had his chances, but that's tennis." The loss will sting for Korda, who grew up idolising the 21-time Grand Slam champion and even named his cat after him. "He started playing a lot different," Korda said of Nadal's play after he fell behind 5-2 in the decider. "He moved closer to the baseline. I could see that he was a little worried, changing up his tactics. I just didn't play good games, and he took advantage of it." With the win, the three-time Indian Wells champion is now undefeated in 16 matches this year. Before his match, Nadal announced that he would not compete at the Miami Open, which starts later this month. Earlier on Saturday, newly-crowned world number one Daniil Medvedev dispatched Tomas Machac 6-3 6-2 to cruise into the third round. Medvedev's powerful serve and almost impenetrable defence proved too much for the Czech qualifier to handle. The Russian received a warm welcome from the crowd on Stadium One when he was introduced as the world's top men's player after the match. "This is the first time I have heard this and people clapped so thanks a lot for the nice welcome," Medvedev said. ALSO READ: Mike Hesson explains why RCB picked Faf du Plessis over Maxwell and Karthik to lead the side in IPL 2022 The 26-year-old U.S. Open champion is seeking his first win at the Masters 1000 tournament. In other second round action, fifth-seeded Stefanos Tsitsipas edged Jack Sock 7-6(5) 3-6 7-6(5), wild card Nick Kyrgios stormed past Federico Delbonis 6-2 6-2 and rising stars Jenson Brooksby, Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz all advanced in straight sets.

Indian Wells: Rafael Nadal stages spectacular comeback to beat USA's Sebastian Korda

Tennis players lashing out at umpires is hurting the sport and stiffer penalties need to be imposed to discourage it from happening, Rafael Nadal told reporters on Thursday.

Nadal's comments came after Alexander Zverev received one-year probation - but no immediate suspension - following an outburst in Acapulco last month where he smashed his racket against the umpire's chair and verbally abused him.

Given the intensity of Zverev's tantrum and the proximity to the chair umpire's ankles, many were surprised the 24-year-old German was allowed to compete at the Indian Wells tournament.

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"I have a good relationship with Sascha, I like him, I practise with him very often, so I wish him all the very best. And he knows that he was wrong and he recognized that very early and that's a positive thing," Nadal said.

"On the other hand, if we are not able to control this type of attitude on court, not just this one instance in particular, there has been other stuff going on in the last couple months.

"If we are not able to penalize these types of attitudes in a little stronger way, then we as players will feel stronger and stronger all the time.

"In this sport, we have to be a positive example, especially for the kids."

Nadal was relaxed and upbeat as he fielded questions at the picturesque Indian Wells Tennis Garden in the Southern California desert.

The Spaniard won a men's record 21st Grand Slam title at the Australian Open in January and has not lost in 15 matches this season after missing time last year with a foot injury.

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Even he has been surprised by the amount of success he has had.

"As everyone knows this is one of my favorite tournaments," said Nadal, who has been staying at tournament owner and billionaire Larry Ellison's private resort, Porcupine Creek Golf Club.

"I have been practising, playing some golf, enjoying the good weather here and trying to be ready for the tournament.

"I have been trying to be calm, but I am increasing the practice."

Nadal's quest for a fourth title at the Masters 1000 event begins on Saturday.

Tennis players lashing out at umpires is hurting the sport and stiffer penalties need to be imposed to discourage it from happening, Rafael Nadal told reporters on Thursday.

Tennis players lashing out at umpires is hurting the sport and stiffer penalties need to be imposed to discourage it from happening, Rafael Nadal told reporters on Thursday. Nadal's comments came after Alexander Zverev received one-year probation - but no immediate suspension - following an outburst in Acapulco last month where he smashed his racket against the umpire's chair and verbally abused him. Given the intensity of Zverev's tantrum and the proximity to the chair umpire's ankles, many were surprised the 24-year-old German was allowed to compete at the Indian Wells tournament. ALSO READ: 'It harmed our cricket': Former Pakistan captain slams PCB over pitch fiasco against Australia "I have a good relationship with Sascha, I like him, I practise with him very often, so I wish him all the very best. And he knows that he was wrong and he recognized that very early and that's a positive thing," Nadal said. "On the other hand, if we are not able to control this type of attitude on court, not just this one instance in particular, there has been other stuff going on in the last couple months. "If we are not able to penalize these types of attitudes in a little stronger way, then we as players will feel stronger and stronger all the time. "In this sport, we have to be a positive example, especially for the kids." Nadal was relaxed and upbeat as he fielded questions at the picturesque Indian Wells Tennis Garden in the Southern California desert. The Spaniard won a men's record 21st Grand Slam title at the Australian Open in January and has not lost in 15 matches this season after missing time last year with a foot injury. ALSO READ: Britain to work with Chelsea Football Club on changes to its licence, says PM's spokesman Even he has been surprised by the amount of success he has had. "As everyone knows this is one of my favorite tournaments," said Nadal, who has been staying at tournament owner and billionaire Larry Ellison's private resort, Porcupine Creek Golf Club. "I have been practising, playing some golf, enjoying the good weather here and trying to be ready for the tournament. "I have been trying to be calm, but I am increasing the practice." Nadal's quest for a fourth title at the Masters 1000 event begins on Saturday.

Players lashing out at umpires is hurting the sport, stronger penalties needed, says Rafael Nadal

Daniil Medvedev on Monday became the 27th player to reach No. 1 in the ATP Rankings.

The 26-year-old (8,615 points) passes Serbian Novak Djokovic (8,465), who has held the top spot in men's tennis for a record 361 total weeks.

"Of course I am happy to reach No. 1. It was my goal since I was young and especially my goal in the latest times," Medvedev said.

"I got a lot of messages from many people and from other tennis players and I just want to thank everybody for the big support."

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Medvedev is the first player outside the 'Big Four'&nbsp;of Djokovic, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray to hold the top spot in 18 years, three weeks and six days, since Andy Roddick on 1 February 2004.

The last time there was a new World No. 1 was more than five years ago, when Murray made it there on November 7, 2016.

Medvedev is the third Russian to achieve the feat, joining Yevgeny Kafelnikov and Marat Safin. Kafelnikov spent six weeks atop the ATP Rankings and Safin was in the top spot for nine weeks.

Medvedev, who stands at 198cm, is the tallest player to earn the honour in the history of the ATP Rankings.

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The 26-year-old is also the sixth-oldest player to reach World No. 1 for the first time.

Guaranteed to claim the top spot when Djokovic lost on Thursday in the quarter-finals of the Dubai Tennis Championships against Jiri Vesely, Medvedev last week reached the semi-finals in Acapulco.

Daniil Medvedev on Monday became the 27th player to reach No. 1 in the ATP Rankings. The 26-year-old (8,615 points) passes Serbian Novak Djokovic (8,465), who has held the top spot in men's tennis for a record 361 total weeks.

Daniil Medvedev on Monday became the 27th player to reach No. 1 in the ATP Rankings. The 26-year-old (8,615 points) passes Serbian Novak Djokovic (8,465), who has held the top spot in men's tennis for a record 361 total weeks. "Of course I am happy to reach No. 1. It was my goal since I was young and especially my goal in the latest times," Medvedev said. "I got a lot of messages from many people and from other tennis players and I just want to thank everybody for the big support." ALSO READ: Not Rahul or Kishan! Ex-Australia spinner names batter who should open with Rohit for India in T20Is Medvedev is the first player outside the 'Big Four' of Djokovic, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray to hold the top spot in 18 years, three weeks and six days, since Andy Roddick on 1 February 2004. The last time there was a new World No. 1 was more than five years ago, when Murray made it there on November 7, 2016. Medvedev is the third Russian to achieve the feat, joining Yevgeny Kafelnikov and Marat Safin. Kafelnikov spent six weeks atop the ATP Rankings and Safin was in the top spot for nine weeks. Medvedev, who stands at 198cm, is the tallest player to earn the honour in the history of the ATP Rankings. ALSO READ: Smriti Mandhana 'stable' after taking a blow on head, cleared to participate in ODI World Cup The 26-year-old is also the sixth-oldest player to reach World No. 1 for the first time. Guaranteed to claim the top spot when Djokovic lost on Thursday in the quarter-finals of the Dubai Tennis Championships against Jiri Vesely, Medvedev last week reached the semi-finals in Acapulco.

Daniil Medvedev pips Novak Djokovic to become World No 1 in ATP rankings

Rafael Nadal said earlier in the week that he wasn't aware of his career statistics. Now, he might want to have a look at them.

The 35-year-old Spaniard defeated Cameron Norrie&nbsp;6-4, 6-4 on Saturday to win the Mexican Open and extend his career-best start for a season to 15-0 as he won his 91st ATP title.

Nadal, who won his third title in 2022, including the Australian Open for his record 21st Grand Slam singles title, is three victories from tying Ivan Lendl's total of 94 for third place for most championships in the Open Era. Jimmy Connors leads with 109 and Roger Federer has 103.

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The Spaniard won for the fourth time in Acapulco (2005, 2013 and 2020) where he is a fan favorite. Norrie, who was on an eight-game winning streak, was trying to become the first British man to win the Mexican Open in its 29-year history.

At the start of the match, Nadal had a break in the fifth game to take a 3-2 lead and went on to in the first set in 51 minutes.

In the second set, Nadal had a break in the first game, but Norrie returned it and appeared to be back into the match, but the Spaniard added breaks in the fifth and seventh games to take home the trophy.

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In the doubles final, Feliciano Lopez and Stefanos Tsitsipas defeated Marcelo Arevalo and Jean-Julien Rojer 7-5, 6-4.

Rafael Nadal said earlier in the week that he wasn't aware of his career statistics. Now, he might want to have a look at them. The 35-year-old Spaniard defeated Cameron Norrie 6-4, 6-4 on Saturday to win the Mexican Open and extend his career-best start for a season to 15-0 as he won his 91st ATP title.

Rafael Nadal said earlier in the week that he wasn't aware of his career statistics. Now, he might want to have a look at them. The 35-year-old Spaniard defeated Cameron Norrie 6-4, 6-4 on Saturday to win the Mexican Open and extend his career-best start for a season to 15-0 as he won his 91st ATP title. Nadal, who won his third title in 2022, including the Australian Open for his record 21st Grand Slam singles title, is three victories from tying Ivan Lendl's total of 94 for third place for most championships in the Open Era. Jimmy Connors leads with 109 and Roger Federer has 103. ALSO READ: Chelsea's Roman Abramovich hands over 'stewardship and care' of club The Spaniard won for the fourth time in Acapulco (2005, 2013 and 2020) where he is a fan favorite. Norrie, who was on an eight-game winning streak, was trying to become the first British man to win the Mexican Open in its 29-year history. At the start of the match, Nadal had a break in the fifth game to take a 3-2 lead and went on to in the first set in 51 minutes. In the second set, Nadal had a break in the first game, but Norrie returned it and appeared to be back into the match, but the Spaniard added breaks in the fifth and seventh games to take home the trophy. ALSO READ: Ishan Kishan admitted to hospital after being hit on head by a nasty bouncer during 2nd T20I against SL In the doubles final, Feliciano Lopez and Stefanos Tsitsipas defeated Marcelo Arevalo and Jean-Julien Rojer 7-5, 6-4.

Mexican Open: Rafael Nadal beats Britain's Cameron Norrie to win his 91st ATP title

Rafael&nbsp;Nadal beat new world number one Daniil Medvedev 6-3 6-3 in a rematch of their Australian Open clash to storm into the final of the ATP 500 event in Acapulco on Friday.

Nadal had to fight back from two sets down in their previous meeting in Melbourne in January to clinch a men`s record 21st Grand Slam title, but in Mexico, it was the Spaniard who got off to a fast start.

Medvedev was forced to defend a couple of breakpoints in his very first service game, before Nadal broke minutes later to take a 3-1 lead, which he held onto to claim the first set 6-3.

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Nadal appeared to have carried his momentum into the second set, breaking serve early to go 1-0 up, but Medvedev grew into the contest as the set progressed and began causing the Spaniard all kinds of problems with his backhand dropshot.

Medvedev earned a total of 11 breakpoints across just two of Nadal's service games in the second set, but the Australian Open champion dug deep to hold serve on both occasions, and snuff out the Russian's attempted comeback.

Nadal's holds under pressure took the wind out of Medvedev's sails and the Russian was broken once again as an unforced backhand error handed Nadal the win and set up a clash against British number one Cameron Norrie in the final.

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Earlier on Friday, British sixth seed Norrie prevented world number four Stefanos Tsitsipas from reaching a second straight final in Acapulco, winning 6-4 6-4 in an hour 18 minutes.

"I wasn't really feeling well in the start of the match. I had some nerves, but my serve really kept me in there," Norrie said. "I was able to dictate play, and get into his backhand while defending my forehand."

Rafael Nadal beat new world number one Daniil Medvedev 6-3 6-3 in a rematch of their Australian Open clash to storm into the final of the ATP 500 event in Acapulco on Friday.

Rafael Nadal beat new world number one Daniil Medvedev 6-3 6-3 in a rematch of their Australian Open clash to storm into the final of the ATP 500 event in Acapulco on Friday. Nadal had to fight back from two sets down in their previous meeting in Melbourne in January to clinch a men`s record 21st Grand Slam title, but in Mexico, it was the Spaniard who got off to a fast start. Medvedev was forced to defend a couple of breakpoints in his very first service game, before Nadal broke minutes later to take a 3-1 lead, which he held onto to claim the first set 6-3. ALSO READ: Poland will not play World Cup qualifying match against Russia, says Polish FA head Cezary Kulesza Nadal appeared to have carried his momentum into the second set, breaking serve early to go 1-0 up, but Medvedev grew into the contest as the set progressed and began causing the Spaniard all kinds of problems with his backhand dropshot. Medvedev earned a total of 11 breakpoints across just two of Nadal's service games in the second set, but the Australian Open champion dug deep to hold serve on both occasions, and snuff out the Russian's attempted comeback. Nadal's holds under pressure took the wind out of Medvedev's sails and the Russian was broken once again as an unforced backhand error handed Nadal the win and set up a clash against British number one Cameron Norrie in the final. ALSO READ: Manchester United withdraws Russian airline Aeroflot's sponsorship amid Ukraine crisis Earlier on Friday, British sixth seed Norrie prevented world number four Stefanos Tsitsipas from reaching a second straight final in Acapulco, winning 6-4 6-4 in an hour 18 minutes. "I wasn't really feeling well in the start of the match. I had some nerves, but my serve really kept me in there," Norrie said. "I was able to dictate play, and get into his backhand while defending my forehand."

Rafael Nadal beats World No. 1 Daniil Medvedev to enter Mexican Open final

New world number one Daniil Medvedev defeated Japan`s Yoshihito Nishioka 6-2 6-3 in Acapulco on Thursday to storm into the semi-finals of the ATP 500 event, where he will take on Rafa Nadal in an Australian Open final rematch.

Medvedev, who took the court hours after Novak Djokovic`s quarter-final loss in Dubai meant the Russian would replace him atop the rankings, converted six break points and fired down 12 aces, including one to seal the match.

"It`s not easy, actually, to play a match when you get this (news) during the day," Medvedev said in his on-court interview when asked about becoming world number one.

"So then when I was receiving all the messages, well I understood that, yeah OK, it`s going to happen."

After blitzing his way through the first set, during which he converted all three break point chances and won 80% of his first serve points, Medvedev was forced to rally back in the second after falling behind 3-1.

Up next for Medvedev is Australian Open champion Nadal, who made a blistering start against world number 39 Tommy Paul but faced a second set fightback from the American amid increasing humidity to prevail 6-0 7-6(5).

Medvedev squandered a two-set lead against Nadal in their previous meeting in Melbourne in January, allowing the Spaniard to clinch a men`s record 21st Grand Slam title.

He will have to be in top form to beat Nadal, who is on a 13-match winning streak in 2022 - his best start to a season in his career at the age of 35.

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"Everybody knows how difficult it is to play against Daniil," Nadal said. "I know I have to play at my highest level if I want to have any chance, and that`s what I`m going to try."

Medvedev said it would be special to face Nadal again.

"Kind of a chance to get my revenge," said Medvedev. "You have to learn from the best, which is him, Roger (Federer), Novak, Andy (Murray) ... always when they were losing a tough fight, they were trying to get their revenge."

World number four Stefanos Tsitsipas, who was runner-up in Acapulco last year, also reached the semi-finals with a 6-3 6-4 victory over American Marcos Giron and has not dropped a set this week.

Tsitsipas will face British sixth seed Cameron Norrie who lost just one game to hammer Germany`s Peter Gojowczyk 6-1 6-0 in the day`s final match on the main showcourt.

Gojowczyk had received a walkover to the quarters after last year`s champion Alexander Zverev was kicked out of the event for his assault on an umpire`s chair.

New world number one Daniil Medvedev defeated Japan`s Yoshihito Nishioka 6-2 6-3 in Acapulco on Thursday to storm into the semi-finals of the ATP 500 event, where he will take on Rafa Nadal in an Australian Open final rematch.

New world number one Daniil Medvedev defeated Japan`s Yoshihito Nishioka 6-2 6-3 in Acapulco on Thursday to storm into the semi-finals of the ATP 500 event, where he will take on Rafa Nadal in an Australian Open final rematch. Medvedev, who took the court hours after Novak Djokovic`s quarter-final loss in Dubai meant the Russian would replace him atop the rankings, converted six break points and fired down 12 aces, including one to seal the match. "It`s not easy, actually, to play a match when you get this (news) during the day," Medvedev said in his on-court interview when asked about becoming world number one. "So then when I was receiving all the messages, well I understood that, yeah OK, it`s going to happen." After blitzing his way through the first set, during which he converted all three break point chances and won 80% of his first serve points, Medvedev was forced to rally back in the second after falling behind 3-1. Up next for Medvedev is Australian Open champion Nadal, who made a blistering start against world number 39 Tommy Paul but faced a second set fightback from the American amid increasing humidity to prevail 6-0 7-6(5). Medvedev squandered a two-set lead against Nadal in their previous meeting in Melbourne in January, allowing the Spaniard to clinch a men`s record 21st Grand Slam title. He will have to be in top form to beat Nadal, who is on a 13-match winning streak in 2022 - his best start to a season in his career at the age of 35. Also Read: 'People should stay together': New world no.1 Daniil Medvedev calls for peace after Russia attacks Ukraine "Everybody knows how difficult it is to play against Daniil," Nadal said. "I know I have to play at my highest level if I want to have any chance, and that`s what I`m going to try." Medvedev said it would be special to face Nadal again. "Kind of a chance to get my revenge," said Medvedev. "You have to learn from the best, which is him, Roger (Federer), Novak, Andy (Murray) ... always when they were losing a tough fight, they were trying to get their revenge." World number four Stefanos Tsitsipas, who was runner-up in Acapulco last year, also reached the semi-finals with a 6-3 6-4 victory over American Marcos Giron and has not dropped a set this week. Tsitsipas will face British sixth seed Cameron Norrie who lost just one game to hammer Germany`s Peter Gojowczyk 6-1 6-0 in the day`s final match on the main showcourt. Gojowczyk had received a walkover to the quarters after last year`s champion Alexander Zverev was kicked out of the event for his assault on an umpire`s chair.

New world No.1 Daniil Medvedev and Rafael Nadal renew rivalry in Acapulco semis

Alexander Zverev deserved to be expelled from the ATP 500 tournament in Acapulco for his expletive-filled tantrum after a doubles defeat, Rafa Nadal said on Thursday, adding that he was sure the German Olympic champion will learn from his mistake. Upset over a line call earlier during Wednesday`s match, world number three Zverev smashed his racket repeatedly against the umpire`s chair, coming perilously close to hitting match official Alessandro Germani, and shouted expletives.

Zverev, 24, who won the singles gold at the Tokyo Games last year, apologised after he was defaulted for `unsportsmanlike conduct` from the event where he had won the singles title last year. Nadal said he felt sorry for Zverev with whom he shared a "good relationship". "He deserved the sanction because you can`t act in this way," the winner of 21 major titles said after reaching the quarter-final at Acapulco.

"I think he is aware of that and I hope that this serves as a learning process for him and other young players who lose their temper on the court sometimes." Zverev's angry outburst could earn him more sanctions from the men`s governing body.

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According to the ATP rulebook, the on-site supervisor could refer the case higher up for further investigation after completing the process of assessing and issuing any further fines and penalties. In 2019, after an initial fine of $113,000, Australian Nick Kyrgios was given a suspended ban of 16 weeks and an additional fine of $25,000 for "aggravated behaviour" by the ATP following an internal investigation. Nadal did not want to get into the quantum of punishment.

"I think the organisation needs to be strict about it because the images spread quickly on social media and there are millions of children watching and they develop these attitudes," the 35-year-old added. "I understand there are moments of frustration and anger but we need to try to be an example." World number two Daniil Medvedev and Denis Shapovalov were also heavily fined at the Australian Open for their outburst against the umpires. "That`s what happened to me a few times," Medvedev, who can climb to the world number one ranking with a title in Acapulco, said after his victory on Wednesday.

"He made a mistake. He paid for it. From what he said he understands that he made the mistake. And that`s the most important. People, no matter which job, which sport, everybody makes mistakes. "(It) was definitely not nice what he did, but he understands it. From my point of view, I understand when you make mistakes, but you regret it and next time you try not to make it."

Alexander Zverev deserved to be expelled from the ATP 500 tournament in Acapulco for his expletive-filled tantrum after a doubles defeat, Rafa Nadal said on Thursday, adding that he was sure the German Olympic champion will learn from his mistake.

Alexander Zverev deserved to be expelled from the ATP 500 tournament in Acapulco for his expletive-filled tantrum after a doubles defeat, Rafa Nadal said on Thursday, adding that he was sure the German Olympic champion will learn from his mistake. Upset over a line call earlier during Wednesday`s match, world number three Zverev smashed his racket repeatedly against the umpire`s chair, coming perilously close to hitting match official Alessandro Germani, and shouted expletives. Zverev, 24, who won the singles gold at the Tokyo Games last year, apologised after he was defaulted for `unsportsmanlike conduct` from the event where he had won the singles title last year. Nadal said he felt sorry for Zverev with whom he shared a "good relationship". "He deserved the sanction because you can`t act in this way," the winner of 21 major titles said after reaching the quarter-final at Acapulco. "I think he is aware of that and I hope that this serves as a learning process for him and other young players who lose their temper on the court sometimes." Zverev's angry outburst could earn him more sanctions from the men`s governing body. ALSO READ | Mexican Open: Alexander Zverev expelled from Acapulco for 'unsportsmanlike conduct' after doubles loss According to the ATP rulebook, the on-site supervisor could refer the case higher up for further investigation after completing the process of assessing and issuing any further fines and penalties. In 2019, after an initial fine of $113,000, Australian Nick Kyrgios was given a suspended ban of 16 weeks and an additional fine of $25,000 for "aggravated behaviour" by the ATP following an internal investigation. Nadal did not want to get into the quantum of punishment. "I think the organisation needs to be strict about it because the images spread quickly on social media and there are millions of children watching and they develop these attitudes," the 35-year-old added. "I understand there are moments of frustration and anger but we need to try to be an example." World number two Daniil Medvedev and Denis Shapovalov were also heavily fined at the Australian Open for their outburst against the umpires. "That`s what happened to me a few times," Medvedev, who can climb to the world number one ranking with a title in Acapulco, said after his victory on Wednesday. "He made a mistake. He paid for it. From what he said he understands that he made the mistake. And that`s the most important. People, no matter which job, which sport, everybody makes mistakes. "(It) was definitely not nice what he did, but he understands it. From my point of view, I understand when you make mistakes, but you regret it and next time you try not to make it."

Mexican Open: Alexander Zverev deserved to be thrown out for umpire abuse, says Rafael Nadal

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