Rafael Nadal insisted he can still win the ATP Finals for the first time despite a damaging 7-6 (9/7), 7-6 (7/4) defeat against Austria's Dominic Thiem on Tuesday.

Thiem overpowered Nadal behind closed doors at London's O2 Arena to put a dent in the Spanish star's bid to finally lift the one major prize missing from his packed trophy cabinet.

Thiem became the first player to qualify for the semi-finals a few hours later when reigning champion Stefanos Tsitsipas beat Russian seventh seed Andrey Rublev 6-1, 4-6, 7-6 (8/6).

Nadal, who lost the 2010 and 2013 finals of the event, has to beat Tsitsipas in his last group match to reach the semi-finals of the prestigious season-ending tournament.

Despite his perilous position, Nadal goes into the showdown against Tsitsipas, with the winner guaranteed to progress to the last four, in confident mood after battling hard against the inspired Thiem.

"He played I think an amazing match, and I played well too. So my feeling is not negative. I lost, but I had plenty of chances, said Nadal, who had beaten Rublev in straight sets in his first match.

"I'm happy with the way I played. I think my chances are bigger to have a very good result now than five days ago because the level of tennis, even if I lost today, for me is much higher."

Nadal, who last month equalled Roger Federer's record of 20 Grand Slams by winning the French Open, has won 86 titles but just one of those has come on an indoor hard court.

The world number two has qualified for the ATP Finals for 16 years in a row, but his record at the eight-man elite event pales in comparison with Federer and Novak Djokovic after six injury withdrawals.

<h2>- 'I have my chances' -</h2>

Potentially facing another disappointment in the Finals, Nadal said he couldn't explain his problems at the event.

"I think even if I never won here, I don't want to pretend to be arrogant at all, because I am not. But I really don't need to show even to myself or to no one that if I am playing my best tennis I think I can win in every surface and against any player," he said.

"I never won in the World Tour Finals. That's the real thing at the same time. I have a match against Tsitsipas in two days. Gonna be another tough one.&nbsp;

"I hope to be ready. I think playing like this I am confident that I can have my chances in the tournament."

World number three Thiem, who defeated Tsitsipas in his opening match, has won his first two matches in this year's tournament as he looks to go one better than last year's runner-up finish.

The 27-year-old has already enjoyed a year to remember, reaching two Grand Slam finals and winning one of the four majors for the first time when he defeated Alexander Zverev in the US Open final in September.

"It's definitely one of the better matches I've played so far in my career," Thiem said.

"I think that today I played a little bit higher level than at the US Open. It was maybe the best match from me since the restart of the tour and that makes me super happy."

Tsitsipas saved a match point in the final set tie-break against Rublev before the Greek sixth seed sealed his first win of the week and eliminated his opponent.

"I'm relieved all that effort and fight on the court paid off at the end. I showed determination to not give up when he had match point," Tsitsipas said.

"I'm going to try and play an aggressive game against Rafa. You can't be defensive. I have to start strong and finish even stronger."

Rafael Nadal insisted he can still win the ATP Finals for the first time despite a damaging 7-6 (9/7), 7-6 (7/4) defeat against Austria's Dominic Thiem on Tuesday.

Rafael Nadal insisted he can still win the ATP Finals for the first time despite a damaging 7-6 (9/7), 7-6 (7/4) defeat against Austria's Dominic Thiem on Tuesday. Thiem overpowered Nadal behind closed doors at London's O2 Arena to put a dent in the Spanish star's bid to finally lift the one major prize missing from his packed trophy cabinet. Thiem became the first player to qualify for the semi-finals a few hours later when reigning champion Stefanos Tsitsipas beat Russian seventh seed Andrey Rublev 6-1, 4-6, 7-6 (8/6). Nadal, who lost the 2010 and 2013 finals of the event, has to beat Tsitsipas in his last group match to reach the semi-finals of the prestigious season-ending tournament. Despite his perilous position, Nadal goes into the showdown against Tsitsipas, with the winner guaranteed to progress to the last four, in confident mood after battling hard against the inspired Thiem. "He played I think an amazing match, and I played well too. So my feeling is not negative. I lost, but I had plenty of chances, said Nadal, who had beaten Rublev in straight sets in his first match. "I'm happy with the way I played. I think my chances are bigger to have a very good result now than five days ago because the level of tennis, even if I lost today, for me is much higher." Nadal, who last month equalled Roger Federer's record of 20 Grand Slams by winning the French Open, has won 86 titles but just one of those has come on an indoor hard court. The world number two has qualified for the ATP Finals for 16 years in a row, but his record at the eight-man elite event pales in comparison with Federer and Novak Djokovic after six injury withdrawals. - 'I have my chances' - Potentially facing another disappointment in the Finals, Nadal said he couldn't explain his problems at the event. "I think even if I never won here, I don't want to pretend to be arrogant at all, because I am not. But I really don't need to show even to myself or to no one that if I am playing my best tennis I think I can win in every surface and against any player," he said. "I never won in the World Tour Finals. That's the real thing at the same time. I have a match against Tsitsipas in two days. Gonna be another tough one. "I hope to be ready. I think playing like this I am confident that I can have my chances in the tournament." World number three Thiem, who defeated Tsitsipas in his opening match, has won his first two matches in this year's tournament as he looks to go one better than last year's runner-up finish. The 27-year-old has already enjoyed a year to remember, reaching two Grand Slam finals and winning one of the four majors for the first time when he defeated Alexander Zverev in the US Open final in September. "It's definitely one of the better matches I've played so far in my career," Thiem said. "I think that today I played a little bit higher level than at the US Open. It was maybe the best match from me since the restart of the tour and that makes me super happy." Tsitsipas saved a match point in the final set tie-break against Rublev before the Greek sixth seed sealed his first win of the week and eliminated his opponent. "I'm relieved all that effort and fight on the court paid off at the end. I showed determination to not give up when he had match point," Tsitsipas said. "I'm going to try and play an aggressive game against Rafa. You can't be defensive. I have to start strong and finish even stronger."

Nadal faces Tsitsipas showdown after Thiem loss at ATP Finals

Rafael Nadal launched his bid for a first ATP Finals trophy in style on Sunday, taming in-form Andrey Rublev in straight sets in London after Dominic Thiem beat Stefanos Tsitsipas.

The Spanish world number two, chasing the biggest prize missing from his glittering resume, barely broke sweat as he outclassed the Russian debutant 6-3, 6-4 at the empty O2 Arena.

Earlier, US Open champion Thiem avenged his defeat by Tsitsipas in the championship match last year, beating the Greek sixth seed 7-6 (7/5), 4-6, 6-3.

Nadal, who last month equalled Roger Federer's record of 20 Grand Slams by winning the French Open, has won 86 titles but just one of those has come on an indoor hard court.

His record at the eight-man elite event pales in comparison with his main rivals. Federer, who is absent with injury, has won it a record six times and Novak Djokovic has triumphed five times.

Nadal, 34, and Rublev both held serve comfortably in the early stages of their Group London 2020 round-robin match.

But the Spaniard, who was comprehensively outserving his 23-year-old opponent, made his move in the sixth game, breaking the Russian, who hurled his racket to the ground in frustration, and wrapping up the set with the minimum of fuss.

Rublev, who has won a tour-leading five titles during the coronavirus-interrupted 2020 season,&nbsp;was broken again in the first game of the second set, leaving him with a mountain to climb.

The seventh seed upped his first-serve percentage but it was too little too late.

Nadal did not face a break point in the entire 77-minute match.

"Always the first match is very tricky," said Nadal. "Every match is difficult when you're playing against the best of the best so it's a positive start for me, very happy."

"I think my serve worked very well tonight so that's a bit of help always on these surfaces," added the two-time finalist.&nbsp;

"I had my few chances on the return and I converted."&nbsp;

The French Open champion said winning in straight sets was a big confidence boost ahead of his "super-difficult match" against Thiem on Tuesday.

The Spaniard has qualified for the ATP Finals for a record 16 consecutive years but has been forced to withdraw on six occasions.

A combination of injuries and his preference for other surfaces has counted against him but his greater freshness as a result of a shorter season may boost his chances this year.

<h2>- Thiem revenge -</h2>

In the opening match on Sunday, Austria's Thiem missed a clutch of break points against Tsitsipas but battled back from 4-1 down in the first set tie-break to take the lead.

The defending champion broke early in the second set to level the match and appeared to have the momentum but Thiem rallied impressively, earning a break with a delicately dinked forehand in the second game of the decider, which proved decisive.

"I think the level was higher last year," said Thiem.&nbsp;

"We were both in great shape last year in the final, we wanted that title 100 percent. The atmosphere was insane last year in the final and today was a little bit different."

Earlier, Novak Djokovic received the ATP Tour No. 1 trophy after finishing the year at the top of the rankings for a record-equalling sixth time.

The top seed, who is competing in Group Tokyo 1970 alongside Daniil Medvedev, Alexander Zverev and Diego Schwartzman, plays his opening match on Monday.

The O2 Arena is hosting the ATP Finals for the 12th and final season before the year-end championships moves to Turin next year.

Rafael Nadal launched his bid for a first ATP Finals trophy in style on Sunday, taming in-form Andrey Rublev in straight sets in London after Dominic Thiem beat Stefanos Tsitsipas.

Rafael Nadal launched his bid for a first ATP Finals trophy in style on Sunday, taming in-form Andrey Rublev in straight sets in London after Dominic Thiem beat Stefanos Tsitsipas. The Spanish world number two, chasing the biggest prize missing from his glittering resume, barely broke sweat as he outclassed the Russian debutant 6-3, 6-4 at the empty O2 Arena. Earlier, US Open champion Thiem avenged his defeat by Tsitsipas in the championship match last year, beating the Greek sixth seed 7-6 (7/5), 4-6, 6-3. Nadal, who last month equalled Roger Federer's record of 20 Grand Slams by winning the French Open, has won 86 titles but just one of those has come on an indoor hard court. His record at the eight-man elite event pales in comparison with his main rivals. Federer, who is absent with injury, has won it a record six times and Novak Djokovic has triumphed five times. Nadal, 34, and Rublev both held serve comfortably in the early stages of their Group London 2020 round-robin match. But the Spaniard, who was comprehensively outserving his 23-year-old opponent, made his move in the sixth game, breaking the Russian, who hurled his racket to the ground in frustration, and wrapping up the set with the minimum of fuss. Rublev, who has won a tour-leading five titles during the coronavirus-interrupted 2020 season, was broken again in the first game of the second set, leaving him with a mountain to climb. The seventh seed upped his first-serve percentage but it was too little too late. Nadal did not face a break point in the entire 77-minute match. "Always the first match is very tricky," said Nadal. "Every match is difficult when you're playing against the best of the best so it's a positive start for me, very happy." "I think my serve worked very well tonight so that's a bit of help always on these surfaces," added the two-time finalist. "I had my few chances on the return and I converted." The French Open champion said winning in straight sets was a big confidence boost ahead of his "super-difficult match" against Thiem on Tuesday. The Spaniard has qualified for the ATP Finals for a record 16 consecutive years but has been forced to withdraw on six occasions. A combination of injuries and his preference for other surfaces has counted against him but his greater freshness as a result of a shorter season may boost his chances this year. - Thiem revenge - In the opening match on Sunday, Austria's Thiem missed a clutch of break points against Tsitsipas but battled back from 4-1 down in the first set tie-break to take the lead. The defending champion broke early in the second set to level the match and appeared to have the momentum but Thiem rallied impressively, earning a break with a delicately dinked forehand in the second game of the decider, which proved decisive. "I think the level was higher last year," said Thiem. "We were both in great shape last year in the final, we wanted that title 100 percent. The atmosphere was insane last year in the final and today was a little bit different." Earlier, Novak Djokovic received the ATP Tour No. 1 trophy after finishing the year at the top of the rankings for a record-equalling sixth time. The top seed, who is competing in Group Tokyo 1970 alongside Daniil Medvedev, Alexander Zverev and Diego Schwartzman, plays his opening match on Monday. The O2 Arena is hosting the ATP Finals for the 12th and final season before the year-end championships moves to Turin next year.

Nadal cruises at ATP Finals as Thiem takes revenge against Tsitsipas

Rafael Nadal said he had enjoyed a "positive tournament" at the Paris Masters as he gears up for his latest tilt at a first ATP Tour Finals triumph, despite losing to Alexander Zverev on Saturday.

The top seed slumped to a 6-4, 7-5 loss to Zverev in the semi-finals at Bercy Arena, but said his run this week would help him at the season-ending event in London, which starts on November 15.

"It has been a positive tournament for me. Of course not happy about the loss, but that's part of the game," said Nadal, who has also never won the Paris Masters.

"I spent hours on court. Of course I wanted to win the tournament, but it's always difficult.

"But I had the right attitude during the whole event, I think, fighting in every match.

"That gave me the chance to play four matches that I think will be helpful for London. I need to adjust a couple of things, but I am doing well on all the important things."

The Spaniard, playing for the first time since winning a record-extending 13th French Open title across Paris at Roland Garros last month, was never at his best on the indoor hard courts.

He claimed his 1,000th career win with a comeback victory over Feliciano Lopez in the second round and also had to fight back from a set down to beat Pablo Carreno Busta in the quarter-finals.

Nadal has only won one of his 86 ATP titles on indoor hard courts and that success came in Madrid over 15 years ago.

"I need to find a better feeling with the backhand on this surface, because when I hit the ball sometimes I feel that I can miss it," he admitted.

"To compete at this highest level, sometimes it's a little bit tougher."

Rafael Nadal said he had enjoyed a "positive tournament" at the Paris Masters as he gears up for his latest tilt at a first ATP Tour Finals triumph, despite losing to Alexander Zverev on Saturday.

Rafael Nadal said he had enjoyed a "positive tournament" at the Paris Masters as he gears up for his latest tilt at a first ATP Tour Finals triumph, despite losing to Alexander Zverev on Saturday. The top seed slumped to a 6-4, 7-5 loss to Zverev in the semi-finals at Bercy Arena, but said his run this week would help him at the season-ending event in London, which starts on November 15. "It has been a positive tournament for me. Of course not happy about the loss, but that's part of the game," said Nadal, who has also never won the Paris Masters. "I spent hours on court. Of course I wanted to win the tournament, but it's always difficult. "But I had the right attitude during the whole event, I think, fighting in every match. "That gave me the chance to play four matches that I think will be helpful for London. I need to adjust a couple of things, but I am doing well on all the important things." The Spaniard, playing for the first time since winning a record-extending 13th French Open title across Paris at Roland Garros last month, was never at his best on the indoor hard courts. He claimed his 1,000th career win with a comeback victory over Feliciano Lopez in the second round and also had to fight back from a set down to beat Pablo Carreno Busta in the quarter-finals. Nadal has only won one of his 86 ATP titles on indoor hard courts and that success came in Madrid over 15 years ago. "I need to find a better feeling with the backhand on this surface, because when I hit the ball sometimes I feel that I can miss it," he admitted. "To compete at this highest level, sometimes it's a little bit tougher."

Nadal 'positive' ahead of ATP Finals despite Zverev loss

Rafael Nadal said he was proud of a "great achievement" after securing the 1,000th Tour-level victory of his illustrious career on Wednesday, becoming the fourth man to reach that mark with a comeback win over Feliciano Lopez in the Paris Masters second round.

The 20-time Grand Slam champion, back in the French capital less than a month after winning his 13th Roland Garros title, edged out his fellow Spaniard 4-6, 7-6 (7/5), 6-4.

"I am proud about a lot of things, but I faced some challenges in my career in terms of body injuries," said Nadal.

"But I always had the passion to keep going and the humility to keep going when things are going in a way you don't expect.

"It's a great achievement for me."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/zverev-again-says-domestic-assault-allegations-not-true-340717" hreflang="en">Zverev again says domestic assault allegations 'not true'</a>

Nadal, whose first match win on the ATP Tour came in April 2002 when he was just 15, is fourth on the all-time list, with Jimmy Connors leading the way on 1,274 victories, 32 more than second-placed Roger Federer.

"One negative thing about getting to 1,000 -- is that you're very old as it means you have to have had a very long career," added Nadal.

"But I'm very happy."

Ivan Lendl also passed the 1,000-win barrier.

Nadal was given a special presentation to celebrate his achievement after the match in a near-empty Bercy Arena, with the event being played behind closed doors after France entered its second coronavirus lockdown last week.

The 34-year-old Nadal, bidding for a first Paris Masters title, will face Jordan Thompson in the third round after the Australian beat Croatia's Borna Coric 2-6, 6-4, 6-2.

Taking the trophy in Paris this week would see Nadal equal Novak Djokovic's record of 36 Masters titles.

He struggled to find his rhythm for much of the match as 39-year-old Lopez served excellently, saving the first six break points he faced, but Nadal stepped it up in the second-set tie-break.

The top seed grabbed the crucial break in the first game of the decider and then eased to victory after saving two break points himself in the next game.

"It was a very tough match," said Nadal. "I started in the worst way possible with a break. Against him, that's difficult because you're under pressure for the whole match."

The world number two is playing the tournament for the eighth time in his career, but he pulled out midway through his last two appearances due to injury.

His best run at Bercy was when he lost in the 2007 final to Argentinian David Nalbandian.

Rafael Nadal said he was proud of a "great achievement" after securing the 1,000th Tour-level victory of his illustrious career on Wednesday, becoming the fourth man to reach that mark with a comeback win over Feliciano Lopez in the Paris Masters second round.

Rafael Nadal said he was proud of a "great achievement" after securing the 1,000th Tour-level victory of his illustrious career on Wednesday, becoming the fourth man to reach that mark with a comeback win over Feliciano Lopez in the Paris Masters second round. The 20-time Grand Slam champion, back in the French capital less than a month after winning his 13th Roland Garros title, edged out his fellow Spaniard 4-6, 7-6 (7/5), 6-4. "I am proud about a lot of things, but I faced some challenges in my career in terms of body injuries," said Nadal. "But I always had the passion to keep going and the humility to keep going when things are going in a way you don't expect. "It's a great achievement for me." ALSO READ: Zverev again says domestic assault allegations 'not true' Nadal, whose first match win on the ATP Tour came in April 2002 when he was just 15, is fourth on the all-time list, with Jimmy Connors leading the way on 1,274 victories, 32 more than second-placed Roger Federer. "One negative thing about getting to 1,000 -- is that you're very old as it means you have to have had a very long career," added Nadal. "But I'm very happy." Ivan Lendl also passed the 1,000-win barrier. Nadal was given a special presentation to celebrate his achievement after the match in a near-empty Bercy Arena, with the event being played behind closed doors after France entered its second coronavirus lockdown last week. The 34-year-old Nadal, bidding for a first Paris Masters title, will face Jordan Thompson in the third round after the Australian beat Croatia's Borna Coric 2-6, 6-4, 6-2. Taking the trophy in Paris this week would see Nadal equal Novak Djokovic's record of 36 Masters titles. He struggled to find his rhythm for much of the match as 39-year-old Lopez served excellently, saving the first six break points he faced, but Nadal stepped it up in the second-set tie-break. The top seed grabbed the crucial break in the first game of the decider and then eased to victory after saving two break points himself in the next game. "It was a very tough match," said Nadal. "I started in the worst way possible with a break. Against him, that's difficult because you're under pressure for the whole match." The world number two is playing the tournament for the eighth time in his career, but he pulled out midway through his last two appearances due to injury. His best run at Bercy was when he lost in the 2007 final to Argentinian David Nalbandian.

Rafael Nadal joins elite list after completing 1000 career wins

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

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

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

Rafael Nadal will swap his rackets for his golf clubs on Saturday and play in the Balearic Championship in Mallorca, according to a report in Spain.

Nadal is an excellent golfer with a handicap of 0.3 and will join the list of 60 players for the tournament, which includes 23 professionals and 37 amateurs, said Diario de Mallorca on Thursday.

It is not Nadal's first foray into golf, with the Spaniard finishing second just last weekend in the V Test Circuit Hexagonal - Autovidal in Calvia.

The 34-year-old beat Novak Djokovic to win his 13th French Open title earlier this month and move level with Roger Federer on 20 Grand Slam titles.

Rafael Nadal will swap his rackets for his golf clubs on Saturday and play in the Balearic Championship in Mallorca, according to a report in Spain. Nadal is an excellent golfer with a handicap of 0.

Rafael Nadal will swap his rackets for his golf clubs on Saturday and play in the Balearic Championship in Mallorca, according to a report in Spain. Nadal is an excellent golfer with a handicap of 0.3 and will join the list of 60 players for the tournament, which includes 23 professionals and 37 amateurs, said Diario de Mallorca on Thursday. It is not Nadal's first foray into golf, with the Spaniard finishing second just last weekend in the V Test Circuit Hexagonal - Autovidal in Calvia. The 34-year-old beat Novak Djokovic to win his 13th French Open title earlier this month and move level with Roger Federer on 20 Grand Slam titles.

Nadal to play professional golf tournament in Mallorca

French Open 2020: 'King of Clay' Rafael Nadal's 20th Grand Slam!

Rafael Nadal on Sunday continued his domination&nbsp;at claycourt as the Spaniard defeated world no. one Novak Djokovic to win his 13 French Open title while equaling Roger Federer’s record of 20 Grand Slam wins.&nbsp;

Nadal dominated the match from the word go as he bageled Djokovic in the opening set having made only two unforced errors. Not only did many former players congratulate&nbsp;the newly crowned Roland Garros winner, Nadal fans were overjoyed with the annihilation as they celebrated his 20th Grand Slam title by expressing their delight on social media platform Twitter. The hashtag '#GOAT' (Greatest of All Time) started trending as soon as Nadal completed the win.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nadal-defeats-djokovic-to-win-13th-french-open-equals-federers-20-grand-slam-wins-334536" hreflang="en">Nadal defeats Djokovic to win 13th French Open, equals Federer's 20 Grand Slam wins</a>

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<a href="https://t.co/TzQhBeuwML">pic.twitter.com/TzQhBeuwML</a>
— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer/status/1315330172221116418?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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How it started: How it's going: <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> <a href="https://t.co/6zfBuKADun">pic.twitter.com/6zfBuKADun</a>
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/status/1315326501059919872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Congratulations to the King of Clay <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a>. Winning 13 Slams in Paris is extraordinary, a fitting Grand Slam finale to a challenging year. You're an inspiration Rafa, gracious and great. Here’s to 20 majors. 🚀
— Rod Laver (@rodlaver) <a href="https://twitter.com/rodlaver/status/1315324253823094784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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📆 2005: 
🏆 <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> wins his first Grand Slam at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> 
 
📆 2020: 
🏆 <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> wins his 13th <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> title, and his 20th Grand Slam. 
 
👏 Insane longevity. <a href="https://t.co/gCdFOTiPm3">pic.twitter.com/gCdFOTiPm3</a>
— SPORF (@Sporf) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sporf/status/1315324184378183683?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> for 13th French Open/20th Grandslam. 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DjokerNole</a> better luck, fav !! ❤️
— Prateek Bhatta (@prb10_official) <a href="https://twitter.com/prb10_official/status/1315329244851957760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NadalGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NadalGarros</a> 13th Time French Open Champion, 20 Time GrandSlam Champion. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GOAT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GOAT</a> If only words could describe his excellence! Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RafaelNadal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RafaelNadal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VamosRafa?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VamosRafa</a> <a href="https://t.co/pOnD3T9x8G">pic.twitter.com/pOnD3T9x8G</a>
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🌟 GOAT 🌟 
 
🇨🇭 ROGER FEDERER (20 GS) 🏆 
 
🇦🇺 Australian Open (6) 
🇫🇷 Roland Garros (1) 
🇬🇧 Wimbledon (8) 
🇺🇸 US Open (5) 
 
🇪🇸 RAFAEL NADAL (20 GS) 🏆 
 
🇦🇺 Australian Open (1) 
🇫🇷 Roland Garros (13) 
🇬🇧 Wimbledon (2) 
🇺🇸 US Open (4) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RafaelNadal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RafaelNadal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RogerFederer?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RogerFederer</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FrenchOpen2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FrenchOpen2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FrenchOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FrenchOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/NhQXy7Bu8r">pic.twitter.com/NhQXy7Bu8r</a>
— Amul Butter Baby (@AmulButterBaby) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmulButterBaby/status/1315329233653166080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rolandgarros</a> 🎾❤️👏 <a href="https://t.co/xpctMJ5bQD">pic.twitter.com/xpctMJ5bQD</a>
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Congrats to <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a>. Fantastic performance.👏👍👌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> <a href="https://t.co/f5WwE54TgR">pic.twitter.com/f5WwE54TgR</a>
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Nadal also bagged his 100th win at Roland Garros with an ace.&nbsp;The final of French Open 2020 lasted just two hours and 43 wins as Nadal completed one of the dominating performances against Djokovic. Hailed as ‘King of Clay’, Nadal now has 13 French Open titles and also bageled Djokovic in the opening set that lasted only 45 minutes.&nbsp;

“First of all of course congrats to Novak for another great tournament, sorry for today,” Nadal, who has now beaten Djokovic in all of their three French Open finals, said on court.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fearless-swiatek-continues-transfer-of-power-in-womens-tennis-334466" hreflang="en">Fearless Swiatek continues transfer of power in women's tennis</a>

“In Australia (in the final in 2019) he killed me. We’ve played so many times, one day one wins, another day the other wins.”

However, Nadal said that he wasn’t thinking about equaling Federer’s 20 Grand Slam-mark as the Spaniard said that he wants to celebrate this triumph just as a Roland Garros victory while adding this win means “everything” to him.&nbsp;

“To win here means everything. I don’t think today about the 20th and equal Roger on this great number, today is just a Roland Garros victory and that means everything to me,” the world number two said.

“This love story I have with this city and this court is unforgettable.”&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Rafael Nadal on Sunday continued his domination at claycourt as the Spaniard defeated world no. one Novak Djokovic to win his 13 French Open title while equaling Roger Federer’s record of 20 Grand Slam wins.

Rafael Nadal on Sunday continued his domination at claycourt as the Spaniard defeated world no. one Novak Djokovic to win his 13 French Open title while equaling Roger Federer’s record of 20 Grand Slam wins. Nadal dominated the match from the word go as he bageled Djokovic in the opening set having made only two unforced errors. Not only did many former players congratulate the newly crowned Roland Garros winner, Nadal fans were overjoyed with the annihilation as they celebrated his 20th Grand Slam title by expressing their delight on social media platform Twitter. The hashtag '#GOAT' (Greatest of All Time) started trending as soon as Nadal completed the win. ALSO READ: Nadal defeats Djokovic to win 13th French Open, equals Federer's 20 Grand Slam wins pic.twitter.com/TzQhBeuwML — Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) October 11, 2020 × How it started: How it's going: @RafaelNadal #RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/6zfBuKADun — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) October 11, 2020 × Congratulations to the King of Clay @RafaelNadal. Winning 13 Slams in Paris is extraordinary, a fitting Grand Slam finale to a challenging year. You're an inspiration Rafa, gracious and great. Here’s to 20 majors. 🚀 — Rod Laver (@rodlaver) October 11, 2020 × 📆 2005: 🏆 @RafaelNadal wins his first Grand Slam at #RolandGarros 📆 2020: 🏆 @RafaelNadal wins his 13th #RolandGarros title, and his 20th Grand Slam. 👏 Insane longevity. pic.twitter.com/gCdFOTiPm3 — SPORF (@Sporf) October 11, 2020 × Congratulations @RafaelNadal for 13th French Open/20th Grandslam. 👏@DjokerNole better luck, fav !! ❤️ — Prateek Bhatta (@prb10_official) October 11, 2020 × #NadalGarros 13th Time French Open Champion, 20 Time GrandSlam Champion. #GOAT If only words could describe his excellence! Thank you #RafaelNadal #VamosRafa pic.twitter.com/pOnD3T9x8G — Sagar Bidri (@sagarbidri) October 11, 2020 × 🌟 GOAT 🌟 🇨🇭 ROGER FEDERER (20 GS) 🏆 🇦🇺 Australian Open (6) 🇫🇷 Roland Garros (1) 🇬🇧 Wimbledon (8) 🇺🇸 US Open (5) 🇪🇸 RAFAEL NADAL (20 GS) 🏆 🇦🇺 Australian Open (1) 🇫🇷 Roland Garros (13) 🇬🇧 Wimbledon (2) 🇺🇸 US Open (4) #RafaelNadal #RogerFederer #FrenchOpen2020 #FrenchOpen pic.twitter.com/NhQXy7Bu8r — Amul Butter Baby (@AmulButterBaby) October 11, 2020 × @RafaelNadal @rolandgarros 🎾❤️👏 pic.twitter.com/xpctMJ5bQD — Joan Blanusa (@jmblanusa) October 11, 2020 × Congrats to @RafaelNadal. Fantastic performance.👏👍👌#RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/f5WwE54TgR — Stephen Sarfo (@sarfosteve10) October 11, 2020 × Nadal also bagged his 100th win at Roland Garros with an ace. The final of French Open 2020 lasted just two hours and 43 wins as Nadal completed one of the dominating performances against Djokovic. Hailed as ‘King of Clay’, Nadal now has 13 French Open titles and also bageled Djokovic in the opening set that lasted only 45 minutes. “First of all of course congrats to Novak for another great tournament, sorry for today,” Nadal, who has now beaten Djokovic in all of their three French Open finals, said on court. ALSO READ: Fearless Swiatek continues transfer of power in women's tennis “In Australia (in the final in 2019) he killed me. We’ve played so many times, one day one wins, another day the other wins.” However, Nadal said that he wasn’t thinking about equaling Federer’s 20 Grand Slam-mark as the Spaniard said that he wants to celebrate this triumph just as a Roland Garros victory while adding this win means “everything” to him. “To win here means everything. I don’t think today about the 20th and equal Roger on this great number, today is just a Roland Garros victory and that means everything to me,” the world number two said. “This love story I have with this city and this court is unforgettable.”

GOAT! Social media erupts as Rafael Nadal wins his 20th Grand Slam title

Rafael Nadal on Sunday annihilated Novak Djokovic 6-0, 6-2, 7-5 to win his 13th French Open title while equaling Roger Federer’s all-time record of 20 Grand Slam titles. World no. one Djokovic’s hopes of 18th Slam and of becoming the first man to win all four majors twice since Rod Laver in 1969 were shattered as Nadal produced a breathtaking performance to dominate the Serb.

Rafael Nadal vs Novak Djokovic, French Open 2020 men's singles final result: Rafael Nadal (ESP x2) bt Novak Djokovic (SRB x1) 6-0, 6-2, 7-5&nbsp;

Nadal, 34, also claimed his 100th match win at Roland Garros against just two defeats since his 2005 debut. The Spanish ace hence becomes the oldest champion in Paris since Andres Gimeno in 1972 and that too without dropping a single set.

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Undisputed King 👑<a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> <a href="https://t.co/iUCcETcGEG">pic.twitter.com/iUCcETcGEG</a>
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Leading men'Djokovic, regarded as one of the toughest and grittiest players, looked clueless against Nadal with the Spaniard pulling off a sensational performance in the summit clash.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fearless-swiatek-continues-transfer-of-power-in-womens-tennis-334466" hreflang="en">Fearless Swiatek continues transfer of power in women's tennis</a>

With the Grand Slam win, Nadal became on the fifth singles tennis player to enter the 20-major club alongside Margaret Court (24), Serena Williams (23) and Steffi Graf (22). Federer already has 20 Grand Slam to his name.

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😉😉😉<a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RolandGarros</a> <a href="https://t.co/NTUJOq6d6q">pic.twitter.com/NTUJOq6d6q</a>
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&nbsp;

The final of French Open 2020 lasted just two hours and 43 wins as Nadal completed one of the dominating performances against Djokovic. Hailed as ‘King of Clay’, Nadal now has 13 French Open titles and also bageled Djokovic in the opening set that lasted only 45 minutes. In what was a comprehensive win, Nadal had just two unforced errors and 10 winners.

<h2>Grand Slam title winners after Rafael Nadal beat Novak Djokovic in the French Open final on Sunday:</h2>

20 - Roger Federer (SUI)

20 - Rafael Nadal (ESP)

17 - Novak Djokovic (SRB)

14 - Pete Sampras (USA)

12 - Roy Emerson (AUS)

11 - Rod Laver (AUS), Bjorn Borg (SWE)

10 - Bill Tilden (USA) 
&nbsp;

Rafael Nadal on Sunday annihilated Novak Djokovic 6-0, 6-2, 7-5 to win his 13th French Open title while equaling Roger Federer’s all-time record of 20 Grand Slam titles.

Rafael Nadal on Sunday annihilated Novak Djokovic 6-0, 6-2, 7-5 to win his 13th French Open title while equaling Roger Federer’s all-time record of 20 Grand Slam titles. World no. one Djokovic’s hopes of 18th Slam and of becoming the first man to win all four majors twice since Rod Laver in 1969 were shattered as Nadal produced a breathtaking performance to dominate the Serb. Rafael Nadal vs Novak Djokovic, French Open 2020 men's singles final result: Rafael Nadal (ESP x2) bt Novak Djokovic (SRB x1) 6-0, 6-2, 7-5 Nadal, 34, also claimed his 100th match win at Roland Garros against just two defeats since his 2005 debut. The Spanish ace hence becomes the oldest champion in Paris since Andres Gimeno in 1972 and that too without dropping a single set. Undisputed King 👑@RafaelNadal #RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/iUCcETcGEG — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) October 11, 2020 × Leading men'Djokovic, regarded as one of the toughest and grittiest players, looked clueless against Nadal with the Spaniard pulling off a sensational performance in the summit clash. ALSO READ: Fearless Swiatek continues transfer of power in women's tennis With the Grand Slam win, Nadal became on the fifth singles tennis player to enter the 20-major club alongside Margaret Court (24), Serena Williams (23) and Steffi Graf (22). Federer already has 20 Grand Slam to his name. 😉😉😉@RafaelNadal @RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/NTUJOq6d6q — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) October 11, 2020 × The final of French Open 2020 lasted just two hours and 43 wins as Nadal completed one of the dominating performances against Djokovic. Hailed as ‘King of Clay’, Nadal now has 13 French Open titles and also bageled Djokovic in the opening set that lasted only 45 minutes. In what was a comprehensive win, Nadal had just two unforced errors and 10 winners. Grand Slam title winners after Rafael Nadal beat Novak Djokovic in the French Open final on Sunday: 20 - Roger Federer (SUI) 20 - Rafael Nadal (ESP) 17 - Novak Djokovic (SRB) 14 - Pete Sampras (USA) 12 - Roy Emerson (AUS) 11 - Rod Laver (AUS), Bjorn Borg (SWE) 10 - Bill Tilden (USA)

Nadal defeats Djokovic to win 13th French Open, equals Federer's 20 Grand Slam wins

Rafael Nadal on Friday defeated Diego Schwartzman&nbsp;6-3, 6-3, 7-6 (0) in the semi-final of ongoing Roland Garros 2020 to qualify to the final of the Grand Slam event where the Spaniard will take on the winner of the match between Novak Djokovic and Stefanos Tsitsipas.&nbsp;

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The King has Returned<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> <a href="https://t.co/A48K4lgjcB">pic.twitter.com/A48K4lgjcB</a>
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Nadal, a 12-time French Open winner, reached his 13th Roland Garros final after defeating Argentina's Diego Schwartzman, while setting up a potential blockbuster encounter against world no. one Novak Djokovic.&nbsp;

The 34-year-old completed his 99th win at Roland Garros since his debut in 2005 and is now one win away from equalising Roger Federer's all-time record of 20 Grand Slam titles. The Spaniard also qualified for his 28th final at the majors.

Whereas, Djokovic, the winner of 2016 French Open, is chasing his 18th Grand Slam title and will take on Greek fifth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in the second semi-final on Friday.

The world number one has a major record in the making, should he qualify for Sunday's final as he looks to become the first matn in half a century to win all four Grand Slams twice.

Rafael Nadal on Friday defeated Diego Schwartzman 6-3, 6-3, 7-6 (0) in the semi-final of ongoing Roland Garros 2020 to qualify to the final of the Grand Slam event where the Spaniard will take on the winner of the match between Novak Djokovic and Stefanos Tsitsipas.

Rafael Nadal on Friday defeated Diego Schwartzman 6-3, 6-3, 7-6 (0) in the semi-final of ongoing Roland Garros 2020 to qualify to the final of the Grand Slam event where the Spaniard will take on the winner of the match between Novak Djokovic and Stefanos Tsitsipas. The King has Returned#RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/A48K4lgjcB — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) October 9, 2020 × Nadal, a 12-time French Open winner, reached his 13th Roland Garros final after defeating Argentina's Diego Schwartzman, while setting up a potential blockbuster encounter against world no. one Novak Djokovic. The 34-year-old completed his 99th win at Roland Garros since his debut in 2005 and is now one win away from equalising Roger Federer's all-time record of 20 Grand Slam titles. The Spaniard also qualified for his 28th final at the majors. Whereas, Djokovic, the winner of 2016 French Open, is chasing his 18th Grand Slam title and will take on Greek fifth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in the second semi-final on Friday. The world number one has a major record in the making, should he qualify for Sunday's final as he looks to become the first matn in half a century to win all four Grand Slams twice.

Rafael Nadal defeats Diego Schwartzman to qualify for his 13th French Open final

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

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

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

Djokovic, Nadal face new-look Roland Garros road blocks

Rafael Nadal reached his 13th Roland Garros semi-final early Wednesday with a straight sets win over Italian teenager Jannik Sinner but claimed it was "dangerous" to finish at 01:30 in the morning when the temperature had plummeted to 12 degrees (53F).

Nadal, the 12-time champion, defeated 19-year-old Sinner 7-6 (7/4), 6-4, 6-1 to clinch a 98th victory in his 100th match at the French Open.

He will next face Diego Schwartzman, the diminutive Argentine over whom he holds a 9-1 career advantage, as he moves closer to equalling Roger Federer's all-time record of 20 majors.

However, Nadal, more accustomed to the bright sunshine of Mallorca than the autumn chill of a French Open pushed back four months due to the coronavirus pandemic, was unhappy with organisers who scheduled five matches on the main Court Philippe Chatrier.

"I know footballers play under these conditions, but they are all the time moving," said Nadal after the latest ever finishing match at the tournament.

"We stop, we come back, we stop on the changeovers. I think this is a little bit dangerous for the body with these very heavy conditions."

Nadal and Sinner only got on court at 10:30pm after Schwartzman and Thiem had taken five hours to decide their quarter-final.

They also had to wait for another women's last-eight tie to be completed after two others had kicked off the programme.

The sparse and shivering crowd that greeted them wore thick coats, scarves and hats.

"I don't know why they put five matches on Chatrier. It's a risk," added 34-year-old Nadal who finished his news conference at 02:10.

Nadal will be playing in a 34th semi-final at the majors.

&nbsp;

<h2>- 'I was over limit' -</h2>

He takes a 9-1 lead over Schwartzman into that match although the Argentine won their most recent clash in Rome on the eve of Roland Garros.

World number 75 Sinner, bidding to become the first man to make the semi-finals on debut since Nadal in 2005, was left to rue missed chances.

He led with breaks in both of the first two sets, even finding himself just two points away from taking the opener.

Nadal admitted he had been in a contest unlike his first four matches where he dropped just 23 games.

"It was very tough during the first two sets and especially at the end of the first.

"He was hitting the ball very hard and with the cold, the balls had less lift."

Sinner has been tipped to make the world top 10 next season, but said he is not looking too far ahead.

"I'm a person who looks not in the future and not in the past, always in the present," said the Italian who had seen off two seeded players to make the last-eight -- 11th seed David Goffin and sixth-seeded Alexander Zverev, the US Open runner-up.

Argentine 12th seed&nbsp;Schwartzman defeated US Open champion and third seed Thiem in a five-hour epic to reach his first ever Grand Slam semi-final.

The 28-year-old Schwartzman triumphed 7-6 (7/1), 5-7, 6-7 (6/8), 7-6 (7/5), 6-2.

It was one marathon too many for Thiem, the runner-up in Paris for the last two years, who had needed five sets and three and a half hours to down world number 239 Hugo Gaston in the fourth round.

The 5ft 7in (1.70m) Schwartzman's success came on the same day that compatriot Nadia Podoroska, the world 131, reached the last-four of the women's singles.

"Dominic is one of the great players. He is my best friend and I have a lot of respect for him," said Schwartzman.

"So this win is very important for me. In the second and third sets, I was going a little crazy and I was screaming at myself because I had so many chances.

"But, come on, I deserved to win tonight," added Schwartzman.

Thiem had been attempting to reach a fifth successive semi-final in Paris.

However, despite crunching 65 winners to his opponent's 47, he committed 81 unforced errors in a match which featured 19 breaks of serve and at five hours and eight minutes was the second longest of the tournament.

"I was over the limit today," said Thiem.

"At the net I just told him that he deserves it. I think he's for the first time top 10 with that win.&nbsp;

"That's also great achievement."

Rafael Nadal reached his 13th Roland Garros semi-final early Wednesday with a straight sets win over Italian teenager Jannik Sinner but claimed it was "dangerous" to finish at 01:30 in the morning when the temperature had plummeted to 12 degrees (53F).

Rafael Nadal reached his 13th Roland Garros semi-final early Wednesday with a straight sets win over Italian teenager Jannik Sinner but claimed it was "dangerous" to finish at 01:30 in the morning when the temperature had plummeted to 12 degrees (53F). Nadal, the 12-time champion, defeated 19-year-old Sinner 7-6 (7/4), 6-4, 6-1 to clinch a 98th victory in his 100th match at the French Open. He will next face Diego Schwartzman, the diminutive Argentine over whom he holds a 9-1 career advantage, as he moves closer to equalling Roger Federer's all-time record of 20 majors. However, Nadal, more accustomed to the bright sunshine of Mallorca than the autumn chill of a French Open pushed back four months due to the coronavirus pandemic, was unhappy with organisers who scheduled five matches on the main Court Philippe Chatrier. "I know footballers play under these conditions, but they are all the time moving," said Nadal after the latest ever finishing match at the tournament. "We stop, we come back, we stop on the changeovers. I think this is a little bit dangerous for the body with these very heavy conditions." Nadal and Sinner only got on court at 10:30pm after Schwartzman and Thiem had taken five hours to decide their quarter-final. They also had to wait for another women's last-eight tie to be completed after two others had kicked off the programme. The sparse and shivering crowd that greeted them wore thick coats, scarves and hats. "I don't know why they put five matches on Chatrier. It's a risk," added 34-year-old Nadal who finished his news conference at 02:10. Nadal will be playing in a 34th semi-final at the majors. - 'I was over limit' - He takes a 9-1 lead over Schwartzman into that match although the Argentine won their most recent clash in Rome on the eve of Roland Garros. World number 75 Sinner, bidding to become the first man to make the semi-finals on debut since Nadal in 2005, was left to rue missed chances. He led with breaks in both of the first two sets, even finding himself just two points away from taking the opener. Nadal admitted he had been in a contest unlike his first four matches where he dropped just 23 games. "It was very tough during the first two sets and especially at the end of the first. "He was hitting the ball very hard and with the cold, the balls had less lift." Sinner has been tipped to make the world top 10 next season, but said he is not looking too far ahead. "I'm a person who looks not in the future and not in the past, always in the present," said the Italian who had seen off two seeded players to make the last-eight -- 11th seed David Goffin and sixth-seeded Alexander Zverev, the US Open runner-up. Argentine 12th seed Schwartzman defeated US Open champion and third seed Thiem in a five-hour epic to reach his first ever Grand Slam semi-final. The 28-year-old Schwartzman triumphed 7-6 (7/1), 5-7, 6-7 (6/8), 7-6 (7/5), 6-2. It was one marathon too many for Thiem, the runner-up in Paris for the last two years, who had needed five sets and three and a half hours to down world number 239 Hugo Gaston in the fourth round. The 5ft 7in (1.70m) Schwartzman's success came on the same day that compatriot Nadia Podoroska, the world 131, reached the last-four of the women's singles. "Dominic is one of the great players. He is my best friend and I have a lot of respect for him," said Schwartzman. "So this win is very important for me. In the second and third sets, I was going a little crazy and I was screaming at myself because I had so many chances. "But, come on, I deserved to win tonight," added Schwartzman. Thiem had been attempting to reach a fifth successive semi-final in Paris. However, despite crunching 65 winners to his opponent's 47, he committed 81 unforced errors in a match which featured 19 breaks of serve and at five hours and eight minutes was the second longest of the tournament. "I was over the limit today," said Thiem. "At the net I just told him that he deserves it. I think he's for the first time top 10 with that win. "That's also great achievement."

Nadal into 13th Roland Garros semi-final, hits out at 'dangerous' night life

Rafael&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;defeated American qualifier Sebastian Korda 6-1, 6-1, 6-2 to reach the Roland Garros quarter-finals for the 14th time on Sunday, staying comfortably on course for a 13th French Open title and record-equalling 20th Grand Slam crown.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/swiatek-hailed-as-beast-after-stunning-top-seed-halep-at-roland-garros-332476" hreflang="en">Swiatek hailed as 'beast' after stunning top seed Halep at Roland Garros</a>

Second seed&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;racked up his 97th win at the tournament against just two defeats since his title-winning debut in 2005.

He goes on to face either German sixth seed Alexander Zverev or Italian teenager Jannik Sinner in what will be his 42nd career appearance in the last eight of a Grand Slam.

Korda, the world number 213 and son of 1998 Australian Open champion and 1992 Roland Garros runner-up Petr Korda, never really recovered from slipping quickly to a 5-0 deficit in the first set.

The 20-year-old, who was so in awe of&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;when he was growing up that he named his cat after the Spaniard, had the consolation of breaking serve once in the third set.

However, it was a brief respite as 34-year-old&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;swept into the last eight without dropping a set and with his opponent left to rue 48 unforced errors on a chilly, blustery day in the French capital.

"It was a good performance and I am happy with that," said&nbsp;Nadal. "But Sebastian will be a great player in the future, it's impressive to see him hit the ball so well."

Rafael Nadal defeated American qualifier Sebastian Korda 6-1, 6-1, 6-2 to reach the Roland Garros quarter-finals for the 14th time on Sunday, staying comfortably on course for a 13th French Open title and record-equalling 20th Grand Slam crown.

Rafael Nadal defeated American qualifier Sebastian Korda 6-1, 6-1, 6-2 to reach the Roland Garros quarter-finals for the 14th time on Sunday, staying comfortably on course for a 13th French Open title and record-equalling 20th Grand Slam crown. Also read: Swiatek hailed as 'beast' after stunning top seed Halep at Roland Garros Second seed Nadal racked up his 97th win at the tournament against just two defeats since his title-winning debut in 2005. He goes on to face either German sixth seed Alexander Zverev or Italian teenager Jannik Sinner in what will be his 42nd career appearance in the last eight of a Grand Slam. Korda, the world number 213 and son of 1998 Australian Open champion and 1992 Roland Garros runner-up Petr Korda, never really recovered from slipping quickly to a 5-0 deficit in the first set. The 20-year-old, who was so in awe of Nadal when he was growing up that he named his cat after the Spaniard, had the consolation of breaking serve once in the third set. However, it was a brief respite as 34-year-old Nadal swept into the last eight without dropping a set and with his opponent left to rue 48 unforced errors on a chilly, blustery day in the French capital. "It was a good performance and I am happy with that," said Nadal. "But Sebastian will be a great player in the future, it's impressive to see him hit the ball so well."

Second seeded Rafael Nadal into 14th Roland Garros quarter-final

Rafael Nadal charged into the French Open last 16 on Friday and took another confident stride towards equalling Roger Federer's record of 20 major titles while a crop of rising youngsters offered tantalising glimpses of their potential.

The 12-time Roland Garros champion dispatched Italian world number 74 Stefano Travaglia 6-1, 6-4, 6-0 in just 95 minutes, notching his 96th victory at the tournament.

"I think today I played the best match this year at Roland Garros," said Nadal.

Nadal next faces 213th-ranked American qualifier Sebastian Korda, the son of 1998 Australian Open champion and 1992 French Open runner-up Petr Korda, for a quarter-final spot.

"He's my biggest idol. He's one of the reasons I play tennis," Korda said of the Spaniard.

"Growing up, I named my cat Rafa after him. That says a lot about how much I love the guy."

The 20-year-old Korda beat Pedro Martinez in straight sets to become the first man outside the top 200 to make the last 16 in Paris since France's Arnaud di Pasquale in 2002.&nbsp;

Hugo Gaston, also 20, quickly became the second such lowly-ranked man in the fourth round when the world number 239 shocked 2015 champion Stan Wawrinka 2-6, 6-3, 6-3, 4-6, 6-0 in a rain-interrupted tie.

Gaston goes on to play US Open winner and Austrian third seed Dominic Thiem, the runner-up to Nadal in Paris the past two years.

"It's amazing for me, it's a dream. But I try to stay focused," said Gaston, the lone Frenchman remaining in the draw. "I'm feeling tired with the adrenaline rush but I still have some gas."

"I'm not going to put pressure on myself and will try to play relaxed like I did today," he added.

At 19, Italian teenager Jannik Sinner is the youngest player to reach the fourth round at Roland Garros since Novak Djokovic in 2006.

Last year's Next Gen champion made the second week of a Grand Slam for the first time by beating Federico Coria 6-3, 7-5, 7-5.

He will meet the US Open runner-up Alexander Zverev after the German sixth seed ended the run of qualifier and 2018 semi-finalist Marco Cecchinato in three sets.

"I'm just trying to improve day after day," said the 75th-ranked Sinner, who is yet to drop a set in Paris.

&nbsp;

<h2>- Halep gets revenge -</h2>

&nbsp;

Top seed and title favourite Simona Halep, the 2018 champion, avenged last year's Roland Garros loss to Amanda Anisimova by thrashing the American teenager 6-0, 6-1 in only 54 minutes.

The reigning Wimbledon champion made only seven unforced errors as she stretched her career-best winning run to 17 matches.

"I think I played a really good match. I was very aggressive and I knew from last year I had to change something and I did that today," said Halep. "I took the game in my hands."

Halep meets another 19-year-old opponent, Poland's Iga Swiatek, for a place in the quarter-finals. She dropped just one game when the pair met here in the last 16 a year ago.

Halep's status as the women's frontrunner was reinforced following the withdrawal of Serena Williams, on top of the absence of world number one and defending champion Ashleigh Barty, as well as US Open winner Naomi Osaka.

"I don't feel the pressure. Of course I expect from myself to play good tennis but that doesn't mean I have to win every match," said Halep.

"I just want to try to take my chance every time I step on the court, and I'm not thinking about title. It's very far (off)."&nbsp;

Thiem made surprisingly short work of Norwegian 28th seed Casper Ruud, who has won more tour-level matches on clay than anyone else this season.

"In general I was super happy with my performance. I think was one of the best ones this year," said Thiem following an impressive 6-4, 6-3, 6-1 victory.

Two-time quarter-finalist Elina Svitolina ensured she will stick around for the second week with a 6-4, 7-5 win over Russia's Ekaterina Alexandrova, the 27th seed.

Svitolina will next play home hope Caroline Garcia, who upset 16th seed Elise Mertens 1-6, 6-4, 7-5.

Italy's Lorenzo Sonego edged a 36-point tiebreak against Taylor Fritz to complete a 7-6 (7/5), 6-3, 7-6 (19/17) victory.

Fifth seed Kiki Bertens eased aside Katerina Siniakova 6-2, 6-2, moving swiftly on from her stormy win over Sara Errani in the previous round.

Rafael Nadal charged into the French Open last 16 on Friday and took another confident stride towards equalling Roger Federer's record of 20 major titles while a crop of rising youngsters offered tantalising glimpses of their potential.

Rafael Nadal charged into the French Open last 16 on Friday and took another confident stride towards equalling Roger Federer's record of 20 major titles while a crop of rising youngsters offered tantalising glimpses of their potential. The 12-time Roland Garros champion dispatched Italian world number 74 Stefano Travaglia 6-1, 6-4, 6-0 in just 95 minutes, notching his 96th victory at the tournament. "I think today I played the best match this year at Roland Garros," said Nadal. Nadal next faces 213th-ranked American qualifier Sebastian Korda, the son of 1998 Australian Open champion and 1992 French Open runner-up Petr Korda, for a quarter-final spot. "He's my biggest idol. He's one of the reasons I play tennis," Korda said of the Spaniard. "Growing up, I named my cat Rafa after him. That says a lot about how much I love the guy." The 20-year-old Korda beat Pedro Martinez in straight sets to become the first man outside the top 200 to make the last 16 in Paris since France's Arnaud di Pasquale in 2002. Hugo Gaston, also 20, quickly became the second such lowly-ranked man in the fourth round when the world number 239 shocked 2015 champion Stan Wawrinka 2-6, 6-3, 6-3, 4-6, 6-0 in a rain-interrupted tie. Gaston goes on to play US Open winner and Austrian third seed Dominic Thiem, the runner-up to Nadal in Paris the past two years. "It's amazing for me, it's a dream. But I try to stay focused," said Gaston, the lone Frenchman remaining in the draw. "I'm feeling tired with the adrenaline rush but I still have some gas." "I'm not going to put pressure on myself and will try to play relaxed like I did today," he added. At 19, Italian teenager Jannik Sinner is the youngest player to reach the fourth round at Roland Garros since Novak Djokovic in 2006. Last year's Next Gen champion made the second week of a Grand Slam for the first time by beating Federico Coria 6-3, 7-5, 7-5. He will meet the US Open runner-up Alexander Zverev after the German sixth seed ended the run of qualifier and 2018 semi-finalist Marco Cecchinato in three sets. "I'm just trying to improve day after day," said the 75th-ranked Sinner, who is yet to drop a set in Paris. - Halep gets revenge - Top seed and title favourite Simona Halep, the 2018 champion, avenged last year's Roland Garros loss to Amanda Anisimova by thrashing the American teenager 6-0, 6-1 in only 54 minutes. The reigning Wimbledon champion made only seven unforced errors as she stretched her career-best winning run to 17 matches. "I think I played a really good match. I was very aggressive and I knew from last year I had to change something and I did that today," said Halep. "I took the game in my hands." Halep meets another 19-year-old opponent, Poland's Iga Swiatek, for a place in the quarter-finals. She dropped just one game when the pair met here in the last 16 a year ago. Halep's status as the women's frontrunner was reinforced following the withdrawal of Serena Williams, on top of the absence of world number one and defending champion Ashleigh Barty, as well as US Open winner Naomi Osaka. "I don't feel the pressure. Of course I expect from myself to play good tennis but that doesn't mean I have to win every match," said Halep. "I just want to try to take my chance every time I step on the court, and I'm not thinking about title. It's very far (off)." Thiem made surprisingly short work of Norwegian 28th seed Casper Ruud, who has won more tour-level matches on clay than anyone else this season. "In general I was super happy with my performance. I think was one of the best ones this year," said Thiem following an impressive 6-4, 6-3, 6-1 victory. Two-time quarter-finalist Elina Svitolina ensured she will stick around for the second week with a 6-4, 7-5 win over Russia's Ekaterina Alexandrova, the 27th seed. Svitolina will next play home hope Caroline Garcia, who upset 16th seed Elise Mertens 1-6, 6-4, 7-5. Italy's Lorenzo Sonego edged a 36-point tiebreak against Taylor Fritz to complete a 7-6 (7/5), 6-3, 7-6 (19/17) victory. Fifth seed Kiki Bertens eased aside Katerina Siniakova 6-2, 6-2, moving swiftly on from her stormy win over Sara Errani in the previous round.

Nadal eases into French Open last 16 as new kids emerge

Rafael Nadal looks to build on a promising start to his quest to match Roger Federer's 20 Grand Slam titles at the French Open on Wednesday while Serena Williams faces a familiar foe in round two of her latest push to equal Margaret Court's all-time mark.

Top seed and women's favourite Simona Halep puts her 15-match winning streak on the line as she targets another run at a second Roland Garros crown in three years.

Nadal needs one more major to pull level with long-time rival Federer and owns an astonishing 94-2 record in Paris going back to his triumph on debut in 2005.

The Spaniard showed little trouble in handling the heavier conditions in his opening win over Egor Gerasimov at a tournament postponed four months by the coronavirus pandemic.

However, the 34-year-old is wary of an untimely slip-up having made serene progress on his return to action in Rome before running aground in the quarter-finals.&nbsp;

"Six months without playing a single tennis match is not easy," said 12-time French Open winner Nadal, who touched down in Paris without a clay title to his name for the first time.

"I said in Rome when I played the first two matches well, I said, 'Okay, don't believe things are going to be like this.'&nbsp;

"I know how difficult are the comebacks. I had to stop playing tennis for more than two months, so situation is difficult. It's normal, some up and downs."

A first-time opponent again awaits Nadal in 236th-ranked American Mackenzie McDonald, whose lone tour win this season came against Yusutaka Uchiyama at Delray Beach in February.

In the women's draw, Williams heads into another encounter with Tsvetana Pironkova after the pair squared off in the last eight of the US Open earlier this month.

&nbsp;

<h2>- Serena braces for 'long match' -</h2>

&nbsp;

Williams came from a set down in New York to beat fellow mother Pironkova, in the Bulgarian's first tournament appearance since the 2017 Wimbledon championships.

"She's playing well, but I am too," said Williams, imploring herself to play with more confidence after a slow start against Kristie Ahn in round one.

"I'm ready to play her. She'll be ready to play me. It will be a long match, she will get a lot of balls back, but so will I. I'll be ready."

Williams, seeded sixth, is still chasing an elusive 24th Slam title, but clay is her least successful surface.

She has not gone beyond the last 16 in Paris since her defeat to Garbine Muguruza in the 2016 final. Her last major came at the 2017 Australian Open while pregnant.

With defending champion Ashleigh Barty skipping the event over Covid-19 concerns, world number two Halep appears well set for a tilt at a third major.

She battles fellow Romanian Irina-Camelia Begu on Court Suzanne Lenglen, having been spared the grim weather by playing under the new retractable roof in her opener.&nbsp;

Halep has won each of her past three tournaments, resuming the interrupted season with titles on clay in Prague and Rome following her victory at Dubai in February.

US Open champion Dominic Thiem plays American qualifier Jack Sock, a former top 10 player, in the second round while 2015 French Open winner Stan Wawrinka takes on Dominik Koepfer following his mauling of Andy Murray.

Elina Svitolina faces Renata Zarazua, Mexico's first representative in the main draw of a Slam in 20 years, with Victoria Azarenka meeting Anna Karolina Schmiedlova.

Sixth seed Alexander Zverev will come up against Pierre-Hugues Herbert in the final match scheduled on Court Philippe Chatrier.

Rafael Nadal looks to build on a promising start to his quest to match Roger Federer's 20 Grand Slam titles at the French Open on Wednesday while Serena Williams faces a familiar foe in round two of her latest push to equal Margaret Court's all-time mark.

Rafael Nadal looks to build on a promising start to his quest to match Roger Federer's 20 Grand Slam titles at the French Open on Wednesday while Serena Williams faces a familiar foe in round two of her latest push to equal Margaret Court's all-time mark. Top seed and women's favourite Simona Halep puts her 15-match winning streak on the line as she targets another run at a second Roland Garros crown in three years. Nadal needs one more major to pull level with long-time rival Federer and owns an astonishing 94-2 record in Paris going back to his triumph on debut in 2005. The Spaniard showed little trouble in handling the heavier conditions in his opening win over Egor Gerasimov at a tournament postponed four months by the coronavirus pandemic. However, the 34-year-old is wary of an untimely slip-up having made serene progress on his return to action in Rome before running aground in the quarter-finals. "Six months without playing a single tennis match is not easy," said 12-time French Open winner Nadal, who touched down in Paris without a clay title to his name for the first time. "I said in Rome when I played the first two matches well, I said, 'Okay, don't believe things are going to be like this.' "I know how difficult are the comebacks. I had to stop playing tennis for more than two months, so situation is difficult. It's normal, some up and downs." A first-time opponent again awaits Nadal in 236th-ranked American Mackenzie McDonald, whose lone tour win this season came against Yusutaka Uchiyama at Delray Beach in February. In the women's draw, Williams heads into another encounter with Tsvetana Pironkova after the pair squared off in the last eight of the US Open earlier this month. - Serena braces for 'long match' - Williams came from a set down in New York to beat fellow mother Pironkova, in the Bulgarian's first tournament appearance since the 2017 Wimbledon championships. "She's playing well, but I am too," said Williams, imploring herself to play with more confidence after a slow start against Kristie Ahn in round one. "I'm ready to play her. She'll be ready to play me. It will be a long match, she will get a lot of balls back, but so will I. I'll be ready." Williams, seeded sixth, is still chasing an elusive 24th Slam title, but clay is her least successful surface. She has not gone beyond the last 16 in Paris since her defeat to Garbine Muguruza in the 2016 final. Her last major came at the 2017 Australian Open while pregnant. With defending champion Ashleigh Barty skipping the event over Covid-19 concerns, world number two Halep appears well set for a tilt at a third major. She battles fellow Romanian Irina-Camelia Begu on Court Suzanne Lenglen, having been spared the grim weather by playing under the new retractable roof in her opener. Halep has won each of her past three tournaments, resuming the interrupted season with titles on clay in Prague and Rome following her victory at Dubai in February. US Open champion Dominic Thiem plays American qualifier Jack Sock, a former top 10 player, in the second round while 2015 French Open winner Stan Wawrinka takes on Dominik Koepfer following his mauling of Andy Murray. Elina Svitolina faces Renata Zarazua, Mexico's first representative in the main draw of a Slam in 20 years, with Victoria Azarenka meeting Anna Karolina Schmiedlova. Sixth seed Alexander Zverev will come up against Pierre-Hugues Herbert in the final match scheduled on Court Philippe Chatrier.

Nadal, Serena on guard at French Open as Halep plays compatriot

French Open this year has garnered a lot of criticism after delaying their play in autumn instead of summers due to the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-overcomes-patchy-french-open-start-as-thiem-aces-cilic-test-331015" hreflang="en">Serena Williams overcomes patchy French Open start as Thiem aces Cilic test</a>

Many players complained about the cold weather earlier, and now they have been complaining about the balls used during the tournament.&nbsp;

The Roland Garros switched its game balls from Babolat to Wilson balls.&nbsp;

"The ball is completely different," defending men's champion Rafael Nadal told reporters last week. "The ball is super slow and heavy. (There are) very cold, slow conditions.

"I think (it's) not a good ball to play on clay, honestly. That is my personal opinion. It's not the right ball to play on clay courts." Nadal has found it difficult to spin the ball on clay court due to chilling conditions.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shut-up-australias-kyrgios-blasts-at-wilander-over-murray-remarks-330943" hreflang="en">'Shut up': Australia's Kyrgios blasts at Wilander over Murray remarks</a>

British ace Dan Evans agreed with the Spaniard and said that some of the balls you "wouldn't give to a dog to chew."

"I think the balls are the biggest thing," he said of the challenging conditions, while also acknowledging the cold.&nbsp;

The Briton lost to Kei Nishikori in the first round on Sunday.&nbsp;

"Maybe they got it a little wrong with the balls. It's tough to get that ball to go anywhere. It's in what month, September, October? That ball is a bit too heavy, I think," he added.&nbsp;

The winner of recently-concluded American Grand Slam Dominic Theim said that the previous balls used (Babolat) during the Roland Garros was "perfect" for topspin and his "favorite ball."

However, some players like Daniil Medvedev supported the new balls as it suited his game.&nbsp;

French Open this year has garnered a lot of criticism after delaying their play in autumn instead of summers due to the coronavirus pandemic. Also read: Serena Williams overcomes patchy French Open start as Thiem aces Cilic test Many players complained about the cold weather earlier, and now they have been complaining about the balls used during the tournament.

French Open this year has garnered a lot of criticism after delaying their play in autumn instead of summers due to the coronavirus pandemic. Also read: Serena Williams overcomes patchy French Open start as Thiem aces Cilic test Many players complained about the cold weather earlier, and now they have been complaining about the balls used during the tournament. The Roland Garros switched its game balls from Babolat to Wilson balls. "The ball is completely different," defending men's champion Rafael Nadal told reporters last week. "The ball is super slow and heavy. (There are) very cold, slow conditions. "I think (it's) not a good ball to play on clay, honestly. That is my personal opinion. It's not the right ball to play on clay courts." Nadal has found it difficult to spin the ball on clay court due to chilling conditions. Also read: 'Shut up': Australia's Kyrgios blasts at Wilander over Murray remarks British ace Dan Evans agreed with the Spaniard and said that some of the balls you "wouldn't give to a dog to chew." "I think the balls are the biggest thing," he said of the challenging conditions, while also acknowledging the cold. The Briton lost to Kei Nishikori in the first round on Sunday. "Maybe they got it a little wrong with the balls. It's tough to get that ball to go anywhere. It's in what month, September, October? That ball is a bit too heavy, I think," he added. The winner of recently-concluded American Grand Slam Dominic Theim said that the previous balls used (Babolat) during the Roland Garros was "perfect" for topspin and his "favorite ball." However, some players like Daniil Medvedev supported the new balls as it suited his game.

'Super slow and heavy': Tennis stars lash out at balls used during French Open

The undisputed king of clay, Rafael Nadal is one title away from matching Roger Federer's all-time Grand Slam record, but 15 years on from the Spaniard's first French Open triumph he appears more vulnerable than ever at his beloved Roland Garros.

Nadal owns an astounding 93-2 record in Paris dating back to his debut in 2005, when, still a teenager, he became the first player to win the French Open on his first attempt since Mats Wilander in 1982.&nbsp;

Fast-forward to the present day, and his 19 Grand Slam crowns -- a record 12 of which have come at Roland Garros -- coupled with Federer's absence after knee surgery leave him on the brink of history at a venue where he has won each of the past three years.

Yet a multitude of factors, mostly beyond his control, have conspired against Nadal and offered hope to his chief rivals -- namely Novak Djokovic and recent US Open winner Dominic Thiem.

Boris Becker, a former coach of world number one Djokovic, suggested the rescheduled tournament -- pushed back from its traditional spring billing due to the coronavirus pandemic -- will be tougher than usual for Nadal.

The heavier conditions could suit hardcourt players more and negate some of Nadal's lethal topspin, possibly aiding Thiem who has finished runner-up in Paris twice in succession.&nbsp;

"This year is going to be particularly hard for Rafael Nadal. He's my number one favourite but the difference between him and the other players is less big this year than usual," said Becker, a six-time Grand Slam champion.

"He's not in his regular rhythm. He needs match practice. Normally, he was coming to Roland Garros having often played four big clay tournaments, which he had generally won."

Nadal will head into the French Open without a clay title under his belt for the first time, having lost in straight sets to Diego Schwartzman in the quarter-finals at Rome -- his first tournament in six months.

"It's not a moment for excuses. I've spent a long time without competing, I played two good matches," Nadal, who skipped the US Open citing Covid-19 concerns, said following the defeat. &nbsp;

"It's a completely special and unpredictable year," he added. "I did my job here. I did a couple things well and other things bad. At least I played three matches."

&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Beatable on clay' -</h2>

&nbsp;

Despite the sense this is the most understrength version of Nadal at the French Open in recent times, Djokovic remains adamant the 34-year-old is again the favourite to lift the Coupe des Mousquetaires.

"The record that he has there, the history of his results, you just can't put anybody in front of him," said Djokovic, himself vying to add to his lone 2016 triumph at Roland Garros.

"But, you know, definitely Diego showed that Nadal is beatable on clay," added the Serb. &nbsp;

"The conditions that they played on, obviously heavy clay, not much bounce, humid, night sessions, we are going to have that as well in Paris. I'm pretty sure that he does not prefer that to a high bounce. I know he likes the high bounce.

"He likes the hot and warm and fast conditions, where he can use his spin a lot. Even though he's the favourite, I think there are players that can win against him there."

Another championship run for Nadal, not accounting for potential walkovers, would&nbsp;take him to a century of wins at the French Open. Only Federer, Serena Williams, Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert have hit triple digits in wins at a single major in the Open era.

Schwartzman agreed that Nadal was still the favourite.

"Rafa is the king. It's his house. He went to Roland Garros many years playing good, sometimes not playing his best and he won. &nbsp;

"I think Rafa is always there, the guy who is going to win." &nbsp;

The undisputed king of clay, Rafael Nadal is one title away from matching Roger Federer's all-time Grand Slam record, but 15 years on from the Spaniard's first French Open triumph he appears more vulnerable than ever at his beloved Roland Garros.

The undisputed king of clay, Rafael Nadal is one title away from matching Roger Federer's all-time Grand Slam record, but 15 years on from the Spaniard's first French Open triumph he appears more vulnerable than ever at his beloved Roland Garros. Nadal owns an astounding 93-2 record in Paris dating back to his debut in 2005, when, still a teenager, he became the first player to win the French Open on his first attempt since Mats Wilander in 1982. Fast-forward to the present day, and his 19 Grand Slam crowns -- a record 12 of which have come at Roland Garros -- coupled with Federer's absence after knee surgery leave him on the brink of history at a venue where he has won each of the past three years. Yet a multitude of factors, mostly beyond his control, have conspired against Nadal and offered hope to his chief rivals -- namely Novak Djokovic and recent US Open winner Dominic Thiem. Boris Becker, a former coach of world number one Djokovic, suggested the rescheduled tournament -- pushed back from its traditional spring billing due to the coronavirus pandemic -- will be tougher than usual for Nadal. The heavier conditions could suit hardcourt players more and negate some of Nadal's lethal topspin, possibly aiding Thiem who has finished runner-up in Paris twice in succession. "This year is going to be particularly hard for Rafael Nadal. He's my number one favourite but the difference between him and the other players is less big this year than usual," said Becker, a six-time Grand Slam champion. "He's not in his regular rhythm. He needs match practice. Normally, he was coming to Roland Garros having often played four big clay tournaments, which he had generally won." Nadal will head into the French Open without a clay title under his belt for the first time, having lost in straight sets to Diego Schwartzman in the quarter-finals at Rome -- his first tournament in six months. "It's not a moment for excuses. I've spent a long time without competing, I played two good matches," Nadal, who skipped the US Open citing Covid-19 concerns, said following the defeat. "It's a completely special and unpredictable year," he added. "I did my job here. I did a couple things well and other things bad. At least I played three matches." - 'Beatable on clay' - Despite the sense this is the most understrength version of Nadal at the French Open in recent times, Djokovic remains adamant the 34-year-old is again the favourite to lift the Coupe des Mousquetaires. "The record that he has there, the history of his results, you just can't put anybody in front of him," said Djokovic, himself vying to add to his lone 2016 triumph at Roland Garros. "But, you know, definitely Diego showed that Nadal is beatable on clay," added the Serb. "The conditions that they played on, obviously heavy clay, not much bounce, humid, night sessions, we are going to have that as well in Paris. I'm pretty sure that he does not prefer that to a high bounce. I know he likes the high bounce. "He likes the hot and warm and fast conditions, where he can use his spin a lot. Even though he's the favourite, I think there are players that can win against him there." Another championship run for Nadal, not accounting for potential walkovers, would take him to a century of wins at the French Open. Only Federer, Serena Williams, Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert have hit triple digits in wins at a single major in the Open era. Schwartzman agreed that Nadal was still the favourite. "Rafa is the king. It's his house. He went to Roland Garros many years playing good, sometimes not playing his best and he won. "I think Rafa is always there, the guy who is going to win."

Nadal eyes Federer record, 15 years after first Roland Garros title

Rafael Nadal warned he knew how to fix his errors before his French Open title defence after crashing in the quarter-finals of the Rome Masters on Saturday, the final warm-up before Roland Garros.

The nine-time Rome winner slumped 6-2, 7-5 on a humid night in the Italian capital to Argentine Diego Schwartzman, a player the second seed had beaten in all nine of their previous clashes.

It was Nadal's last chance to tune-up before his bid for a 13th French Open, and record-equalling 20th Grand Slam to match Roger Federer in just over a week.

"It's a completely special and unpredictable year," said the 34-year-old.

"I'll probably go back home and then let's see what's going on. I did my job here.&nbsp;

"I fought until the end. But losing that many serves, you can't expect to win a match.

"Something that I have to fix. I know how to do it.&nbsp;

"I'm going to keep working and keep practising with the right attitude and try to give me a chance to be ready.

"I did a couple of things well and other things bad. And that's it. At least I played three matches."

The two-time defending champion was making his comeback after a long coronavirus-enforced break having skipped the US Open.

Nadal beat fellow Spaniard Pablo Carreno Busta, a US Open semi-finalist, 6-1, 6-1 in his first match this week followed by Serb Dusan Lajovic 6-1, 6-3.

But Schwartzman pulled out a stunning performance to leave Nadal with no answer.

"After such a long time without competing, I played good two matches, and now today I played a bad one against a good opponent," said Nadal.

"It was not my night, at all," he said.&nbsp;

"Then we have to think internally why, how I can fix it."

Schwartzman, with just three career titles to Nadal's 85, said he had come close a few times to beating the Spaniard.

"I think four or five times I was close enough to feel like maybe if I play my best tennis I'm going to have chances," said the world number 15.&nbsp;

"Also, he was coming back this tournament after seven months, more or less, eight months.&nbsp;

"And I was thinking, OK, tennis, sometimes it's really crazy and I was not playing good, but today maybe I have the chance."

Rafael Nadal warned he knew how to fix his errors before his French Open title defence after crashing in the quarter-finals of the Rome Masters on Saturday, the final warm-up before Roland Garros.

Rafael Nadal warned he knew how to fix his errors before his French Open title defence after crashing in the quarter-finals of the Rome Masters on Saturday, the final warm-up before Roland Garros. The nine-time Rome winner slumped 6-2, 7-5 on a humid night in the Italian capital to Argentine Diego Schwartzman, a player the second seed had beaten in all nine of their previous clashes. It was Nadal's last chance to tune-up before his bid for a 13th French Open, and record-equalling 20th Grand Slam to match Roger Federer in just over a week. "It's a completely special and unpredictable year," said the 34-year-old. "I'll probably go back home and then let's see what's going on. I did my job here. "I fought until the end. But losing that many serves, you can't expect to win a match. "Something that I have to fix. I know how to do it. "I'm going to keep working and keep practising with the right attitude and try to give me a chance to be ready. "I did a couple of things well and other things bad. And that's it. At least I played three matches." The two-time defending champion was making his comeback after a long coronavirus-enforced break having skipped the US Open. Nadal beat fellow Spaniard Pablo Carreno Busta, a US Open semi-finalist, 6-1, 6-1 in his first match this week followed by Serb Dusan Lajovic 6-1, 6-3. But Schwartzman pulled out a stunning performance to leave Nadal with no answer. "After such a long time without competing, I played good two matches, and now today I played a bad one against a good opponent," said Nadal. "It was not my night, at all," he said. "Then we have to think internally why, how I can fix it." Schwartzman, with just three career titles to Nadal's 85, said he had come close a few times to beating the Spaniard. "I think four or five times I was close enough to feel like maybe if I play my best tennis I'm going to have chances," said the world number 15. "Also, he was coming back this tournament after seven months, more or less, eight months. "And I was thinking, OK, tennis, sometimes it's really crazy and I was not playing good, but today maybe I have the chance."

'I know how to fix it:' Nadal stunned in Rome before French Open title defence

Rafael Nadal swept aside Serb Dusan Lajovic to reach the Italian Open quarter-finals on Friday as he warms up on clay before bidding to match the all-time Grand Slam record in Roland Garros.

The world number two has returned this week in Rome after a six-month coronavirus-enforced break before attempting to match Roger Federer's all-time record of 20 Grand Slam titles in Paris.

The 12-time French Open winner insisted he was not obsessed with matching Federer, absent until 2021 with a knee injury.

"For me it's not an obsession at all," Nadal, 34, told journalists after brushing aside 25th-ranked Lajovic 6-1, 6-3.

Lajovic had valiantly but vainly launched a fightback after trailing 4-0 in the second set to the Spaniard.

"I always say the same. I did all my career my way, and that's what I'm going to keep doing," he continued.

"I can't be all the time thinking about what Roger had or what Novak (Djokovic) or what the other... I know that you put a lot of attention on all of this.&nbsp;

"Of course I would love to finish my career with 25 (Grand Slams) but that's something that probably will not happen," he smiled.&nbsp;

"I'm going to keep fighting to produce chances, and then when I finish my career, let's see. I just want to keep enjoying tennis.&nbsp;

"And that's it. If I am playing well, I know I normally have my chances. If not, it's going to be impossible. That's it."

Nadal declared himself pleased with how his return was going after easing past fellow Spaniard Pablo Carreno Busta 6-1, 6-1 in his first match earlier in the week.

"I played two good solid matches," he said.&nbsp;

"I played at, I think, a very positive level of tennis. Of course it needs to keep improving.&nbsp;

"I need to keep working in a couple of things that things are not coming automatic.&nbsp;

"But I can't ask for more. Have been another great evening for me against another good opponent.&nbsp;

"Much better, not what I expected."

Nadal next meets Argentine eighth seed Diego Schwartzman, a player he has beaten in all nine of their previous meetings.

Nadal won his first Rome title back in 2005, and is bidding for a third consecutive crown on clay in the Italian capital and 10th in total.

Before this week he had not played since winning in Acapulco in February, opting to skip the US hard court tour.&nbsp;

Rafael Nadal swept aside Serb Dusan Lajovic to reach the Italian Open quarter-finals on Friday as he warms up on clay before bidding to match the all-time Grand Slam record in Roland Garros.

Rafael Nadal swept aside Serb Dusan Lajovic to reach the Italian Open quarter-finals on Friday as he warms up on clay before bidding to match the all-time Grand Slam record in Roland Garros. The world number two has returned this week in Rome after a six-month coronavirus-enforced break before attempting to match Roger Federer's all-time record of 20 Grand Slam titles in Paris. The 12-time French Open winner insisted he was not obsessed with matching Federer, absent until 2021 with a knee injury. "For me it's not an obsession at all," Nadal, 34, told journalists after brushing aside 25th-ranked Lajovic 6-1, 6-3. Lajovic had valiantly but vainly launched a fightback after trailing 4-0 in the second set to the Spaniard. "I always say the same. I did all my career my way, and that's what I'm going to keep doing," he continued. "I can't be all the time thinking about what Roger had or what Novak (Djokovic) or what the other... I know that you put a lot of attention on all of this. "Of course I would love to finish my career with 25 (Grand Slams) but that's something that probably will not happen," he smiled. "I'm going to keep fighting to produce chances, and then when I finish my career, let's see. I just want to keep enjoying tennis. "And that's it. If I am playing well, I know I normally have my chances. If not, it's going to be impossible. That's it." Nadal declared himself pleased with how his return was going after easing past fellow Spaniard Pablo Carreno Busta 6-1, 6-1 in his first match earlier in the week. "I played two good solid matches," he said. "I played at, I think, a very positive level of tennis. Of course it needs to keep improving. "I need to keep working in a couple of things that things are not coming automatic. "But I can't ask for more. Have been another great evening for me against another good opponent. "Much better, not what I expected." Nadal next meets Argentine eighth seed Diego Schwartzman, a player he has beaten in all nine of their previous meetings. Nadal won his first Rome title back in 2005, and is bidding for a third consecutive crown on clay in the Italian capital and 10th in total. Before this week he had not played since winning in Acapulco in February, opting to skip the US hard court tour.

Nadal sweeps into Rome quarter-finals

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

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

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

Nadal returns, Djokovic looking for redemption in Rome

Rafael Nadal on Wednesday said he still intends to play at the French Open next month and remains hopeful it will go ahead, despite withdrawing from the US Open due to coronavirus concerns.

Nadal also insisted the US Open will not carry an asterisk without its defending men's champion, even if he admitted it will take place under "special circumstances", with several top players expected to sit out.

The 34-year-old Spaniard's withdrawal was confirmed shortly after the Madrid Open was cancelled on Tuesday, with a rise in coronavirus cases in Europe raising doubts around other events, including the French Open, which is due to start in Paris on September 27.&nbsp;

Nadal, who would be going for a record-extending 13th title at Roland Garros, was asked if he thinks the tournament will go ahead.&nbsp;

"I trust it will yes, it is in my mind and I am preparing for it," said the 34-year-old in a briefing with international media on Wednesday.

"But we have to wait for events, to see how everything evolves because it is true that in recent weeks the situation seems to have worsened a little. But my hope and my intention would be to be there if conditions allow."

Nadal also explained his decision to pull out of the US Open. "My heart says today is not the moment to take long travels without knowing exactly what can and cannot happen.&nbsp;

"My decision is to stay at home in Mallorca where the situation is good, it looks under control here, and to wait for future opportunities."

<h2>- 'Special circumstances' -</h2>

Women's world number one Ashleigh Barty has also chosen not to compete in New York, where a depleted entry list in both the men's and women's draws looks inevitable.&nbsp;

Serena Williams, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray are all still due to play.&nbsp;

"The tournament is still big, it's a Grand Slam," Nadal said. "I am not arrogant enough to say the tournament is not big because I am not playing. There will be important players.&nbsp;

"Of course it's a tournament under special circumstances but still a Grand Slam and the winner will feel like the winner of a Grand Slam. It's true it will be under special circumstances with a lot of important players not travelling there."&nbsp;

Nadal added: "My words can have repercussions so it is difficult to say if it is the right decision or not, for some players it will be right for others not.&nbsp;

"I respect a lot the amount of work and positive intentions of the ATP and USTA (United States Tennis Association) to try to come back to the tour. I have taken my decision so you know my thoughts but I respect there are other players in different situations and they need to play because they have financial problems and need to earn money after a few months without income."&nbsp;

Nadal also said lessons need to be learned after the "mistake" of the ill-fated Adria Tour in June, which was organised by Djokovic and led to several players, including the Serb, testing positive for coronavirus.&nbsp;

"I think most of the players want the best for the world and for people. Of course there was a mistake in the tour organised in Serbia and Croatia but mistakes are normal when you face a situation you haven't faced before," Nadal said.&nbsp;

"The players need to make decisions but I am not saying mine is the right one. Every decision can be right or wrong. We are facing unpredictable situations.&nbsp;

"I really hope people learn from the Adria Tour and we continue in the best way possible."&nbsp;

Rafael Nadal on Wednesday said he still intends to play at the French Open next month and remains hopeful it will go ahead, despite withdrawing from the US Open due to coronavirus concerns.

Rafael Nadal on Wednesday said he still intends to play at the French Open next month and remains hopeful it will go ahead, despite withdrawing from the US Open due to coronavirus concerns. Nadal also insisted the US Open will not carry an asterisk without its defending men's champion, even if he admitted it will take place under "special circumstances", with several top players expected to sit out. The 34-year-old Spaniard's withdrawal was confirmed shortly after the Madrid Open was cancelled on Tuesday, with a rise in coronavirus cases in Europe raising doubts around other events, including the French Open, which is due to start in Paris on September 27. Nadal, who would be going for a record-extending 13th title at Roland Garros, was asked if he thinks the tournament will go ahead. "I trust it will yes, it is in my mind and I am preparing for it," said the 34-year-old in a briefing with international media on Wednesday. "But we have to wait for events, to see how everything evolves because it is true that in recent weeks the situation seems to have worsened a little. But my hope and my intention would be to be there if conditions allow." Nadal also explained his decision to pull out of the US Open. "My heart says today is not the moment to take long travels without knowing exactly what can and cannot happen. "My decision is to stay at home in Mallorca where the situation is good, it looks under control here, and to wait for future opportunities." - 'Special circumstances' - Women's world number one Ashleigh Barty has also chosen not to compete in New York, where a depleted entry list in both the men's and women's draws looks inevitable. Serena Williams, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray are all still due to play. "The tournament is still big, it's a Grand Slam," Nadal said. "I am not arrogant enough to say the tournament is not big because I am not playing. There will be important players. "Of course it's a tournament under special circumstances but still a Grand Slam and the winner will feel like the winner of a Grand Slam. It's true it will be under special circumstances with a lot of important players not travelling there." Nadal added: "My words can have repercussions so it is difficult to say if it is the right decision or not, for some players it will be right for others not. "I respect a lot the amount of work and positive intentions of the ATP and USTA (United States Tennis Association) to try to come back to the tour. I have taken my decision so you know my thoughts but I respect there are other players in different situations and they need to play because they have financial problems and need to earn money after a few months without income." Nadal also said lessons need to be learned after the "mistake" of the ill-fated Adria Tour in June, which was organised by Djokovic and led to several players, including the Serb, testing positive for coronavirus. "I think most of the players want the best for the world and for people. Of course there was a mistake in the tour organised in Serbia and Croatia but mistakes are normal when you face a situation you haven't faced before," Nadal said. "The players need to make decisions but I am not saying mine is the right one. Every decision can be right or wrong. We are facing unpredictable situations. "I really hope people learn from the Adria Tour and we continue in the best way possible."

Nadal still preparing to play Roland Garros despite US Open withdrawal

Two Italian girls whose rooftop tennis video during virus lockdown went viral received a surprise visit from Swiss tennis ace Roger Federer.&nbsp;

The video showing Vittoria Oliveri and Carola Pessina's rooftop rally garnered over 10 million views. The girls became online stars and gave several interviews after the video went viral.&nbsp;

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The girls thought that they were in another interview when they were asked about their favourite player.&nbsp;

13-year-old Vittoria was quick to respond and said: "Roger Federer. If I were to meet him, I would jump on him, or I would be starstruck." 11-year-old Carola said that she would want Federer's elegance while playing and Rafael Nadal's power.&nbsp;

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From a rooftop match that went viral to meeting <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a>. 
 
Just incredible to see 💖<a href="https://t.co/LuozuHYJiT">pic.twitter.com/LuozuHYJiT</a>
— ATP Tour (@atptour) <a href="https://twitter.com/atptour/status/1289215441328537602?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
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But the girls were left stunned when Roger Federer came out from behind a curtain.&nbsp;

The Times quoted Vittoria, who said that she nearly fainted when he showed up.&nbsp;

The 20-time Grand Slam champion then played some rooftop tennis with the girls before having lunch with them.

"He figured out the distances pretty fast and started playing shots between his legs from one roof to another, which was amazing." Vittoria said.

"I didn't think he was real. I thought it was a mannequin," she added.&nbsp;

Federer said: "Personally, for me, that was a very special moment in my career as a tennis player to surprise a fan, or children, like I was able to with Carola and Vittoria today."

Swiss also told the girls that he had arranged for them to go to a summer camp in an academy run by Rafael Nadal.&nbsp;

"I have played in many cool places around the world, but this one is definitely up there for me as a special experience. We showed that we can play anywhere and have fun with it," he added. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Two Italian girls whose rooftop tennis video during virus lockdown went viral received a surprise visit from Swiss tennis ace Roger Federer. The video showing Vittoria Oliveri and Carola Pessina's rooftop rally garnered over 10 million views.

Two Italian girls whose rooftop tennis video during virus lockdown went viral received a surprise visit from Swiss tennis ace Roger Federer. The video showing Vittoria Oliveri and Carola Pessina's rooftop rally garnered over 10 million views. The girls became online stars and gave several interviews after the video went viral. The girls thought that they were in another interview when they were asked about their favourite player. 13-year-old Vittoria was quick to respond and said: "Roger Federer. If I were to meet him, I would jump on him, or I would be starstruck." 11-year-old Carola said that she would want Federer's elegance while playing and Rafael Nadal's power. From a rooftop match that went viral to meeting @rogerfederer. Just incredible to see 💖pic.twitter.com/LuozuHYJiT — ATP Tour (@atptour) July 31, 2020 × But the girls were left stunned when Roger Federer came out from behind a curtain. The Times quoted Vittoria, who said that she nearly fainted when he showed up. The 20-time Grand Slam champion then played some rooftop tennis with the girls before having lunch with them. "He figured out the distances pretty fast and started playing shots between his legs from one roof to another, which was amazing." Vittoria said. "I didn't think he was real. I thought it was a mannequin," she added. Federer said: "Personally, for me, that was a very special moment in my career as a tennis player to surprise a fan, or children, like I was able to with Carola and Vittoria today." Swiss also told the girls that he had arranged for them to go to a summer camp in an academy run by Rafael Nadal. "I have played in many cool places around the world, but this one is definitely up there for me as a special experience. We showed that we can play anywhere and have fun with it," he added.

Watch: Swiss tennis ace Roger Federer surprises 'rooftop tennis' girls

Rafael Nadal's uncle Toni Nadal has said that the world no 2 tennis player is hesitant by the proximity of US and French Opens. These Grand Slams were rearranged due to coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

US Open will be held between August 31 to September 13 in New York with support of ATP and WTA. The French Open was moved to September and is scheduled to start one week after the US Open men’s final.

But due to major concerns, the dates for the French Grand Slam have pushed a few weeks ahead and is now rescheduled for 27 September to 5 October.

Several ATP tour events are also due to take place on dates in between, starting with the Citi Open in Washington DC on 14 August.

In an interview with ESPN, Rafael's uncle Toni said: “He was hesitating."

"He told me about the calendar and I find the ATP calendar a bit ugly because it is almost unmanageable for veterans, especially for the Big 3,” Toni added.&nbsp;

According to ATP Chairman, Andrea Gaudenzi, he viewed the new schedule differently. He said: “Our objective has been to reschedule as many tournaments as possible and salvage as much of the season as we can."

Rafael Nadal's uncle Toni Nadal has said that the world no 2 tennis player is hesitant by the proximity of US and French Opens. These Grand Slams were rearranged due to coronavirus pandemic.

Rafael Nadal's uncle Toni Nadal has said that the world no 2 tennis player is hesitant by the proximity of US and French Opens. These Grand Slams were rearranged due to coronavirus pandemic. US Open will be held between August 31 to September 13 in New York with support of ATP and WTA. The French Open was moved to September and is scheduled to start one week after the US Open men’s final. But due to major concerns, the dates for the French Grand Slam have pushed a few weeks ahead and is now rescheduled for 27 September to 5 October. Several ATP tour events are also due to take place on dates in between, starting with the Citi Open in Washington DC on 14 August. In an interview with ESPN, Rafael's uncle Toni said: “He was hesitating." "He told me about the calendar and I find the ATP calendar a bit ugly because it is almost unmanageable for veterans, especially for the Big 3,” Toni added. According to ATP Chairman, Andrea Gaudenzi, he viewed the new schedule differently. He said: “Our objective has been to reschedule as many tournaments as possible and salvage as much of the season as we can."

Rafael is 'hesitant' over US and French Open's proximity: Toni Nadal

Australian tennis ace Nick Kyrgios called the ATP "selfish" on Thursday for going ahead with plans for the US Open despite country's coronavirus situation and nation-wide anti-racism protests.&nbsp;

Kyrgios said that it is too early to begin the Grand Slam. The Aussie joined other players including Novak Djokovic for expressing disagreement on the move.&nbsp;

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The ATP is trying to make the US Open go ahead. Selfish with everything going on at the moment. Obviously Covid, but also with the riots, together we need to overcome these challenges before tennis returns in my opinion. <a href="https://t.co/tEHPvr4miB">https://t.co/tEHPvr4miB</a>
— Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) <a href="https://twitter.com/NickKyrgios/status/1270963096022994944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"The ATP is trying to make the US Open go ahead. Selfish with everything going on at the moment," Kyrgios said on Twitter.&nbsp;

"Obviously Covid, but also with the riots. Together we need to overcome these challenges before tennis returns in my opinion."

"Obviously Covid, but also with the riots. Together we need to overcome these challenges before tennis returns in my opinion."

Earlier, Novak Djokovic said that he might skip his tour to North America and will restart his tennis season in Europe, he complained about "severe" measures being put in place at the US Open.&nbsp;

He said: "Most of the players I've talked to so far have a rather negative view of the possibility of going."

Spanish tennis ace and reigning US Open champion Rafa Nadal expressed similar feelings. Top-ranked woman Ashleigh Barty has also voiced caution about resuming tennis too soon.

Australian tennis ace Nick Kyrgios called the ATP "selfish" on Thursday for going ahead with plans for the US Open despite country's coronavirus situation and nation-wide anti-racism protests.

Australian tennis ace Nick Kyrgios called the ATP "selfish" on Thursday for going ahead with plans for the US Open despite country's coronavirus situation and nation-wide anti-racism protests. Kyrgios said that it is too early to begin the Grand Slam. The Aussie joined other players including Novak Djokovic for expressing disagreement on the move. The ATP is trying to make the US Open go ahead. Selfish with everything going on at the moment. Obviously Covid, but also with the riots, together we need to overcome these challenges before tennis returns in my opinion. https://t.co/tEHPvr4miB — Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) June 11, 2020 × "The ATP is trying to make the US Open go ahead. Selfish with everything going on at the moment," Kyrgios said on Twitter. "Obviously Covid, but also with the riots. Together we need to overcome these challenges before tennis returns in my opinion." "Obviously Covid, but also with the riots. Together we need to overcome these challenges before tennis returns in my opinion." Earlier, Novak Djokovic said that he might skip his tour to North America and will restart his tennis season in Europe, he complained about "severe" measures being put in place at the US Open. He said: "Most of the players I've talked to so far have a rather negative view of the possibility of going." Spanish tennis ace and reigning US Open champion Rafa Nadal expressed similar feelings. Top-ranked woman Ashleigh Barty has also voiced caution about resuming tennis too soon.

Nick Kyrgios calls ATP 'selfish' for going ahead with US Open

The much delayed generational shift in men's tennis could finally happen on resumption of the tour says tennis legend Daniel Nestor. The 12-time Grand Slam champion believes it will take Federer, Nadal and Djokovic some time to adapt to the rigours of playing five set matches.

WION Broadband Edition: Daniel Nestor opens up on the road ahead for Tennis

This year's tennis has faced massive setback after being on halt for almost all season due to coronavirus pandemic. But according to tennis legend Boris Becker, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal are the worst-affected due to the halt in games.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-possible-after-monsoons-can-live-without-spectators-before-normalcy-bcci-ceo-rahul-johri-300136" hreflang="en">IPL 2020 possible after monsoons:BCCI CEO Rahul Johri</a>

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal are the biggest icons in the tennis. Swiss ace Federer leads the men's list by winning 20 grand slams, whereas, Spaniard Rafael Nadal stands second and has won 19 grand slams.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/2021-last-option-for-tokyo-games-says-olympics-chief-300125" hreflang="en">2021 'last option' for Tokyo Games, says Olympics chief</a>

Becker feels that these icons have faced a heavy impact due to the cancellation of the games. He said: “The jury is out on which of the top tennis stars will suffer most from what could become a lost year."

“Nadal has won the French 12 times. He had a chance to equal Roger Federer there and that's something everybody probably thought would be possible, but now that's not happening,” Becker said.

38-year-old Federer will turn 39 in August, he is currently nursing a knee injury. But his age could make the matters worst.&nbsp;

“We know Roger Federer defies the odds, but he will be reaching 40 next year and he won't get any younger,” Becker added.

This year's tennis has faced massive setback after being on halt for almost all season due to coronavirus pandemic. But according to tennis legend Boris Becker, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal are the worst-affected due to the halt in games.

This year's tennis has faced massive setback after being on halt for almost all season due to coronavirus pandemic. But according to tennis legend Boris Becker, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal are the worst-affected due to the halt in games. Also read: IPL 2020 possible after monsoons:BCCI CEO Rahul Johri Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal are the biggest icons in the tennis. Swiss ace Federer leads the men's list by winning 20 grand slams, whereas, Spaniard Rafael Nadal stands second and has won 19 grand slams. Also read: 2021 'last option' for Tokyo Games, says Olympics chief Becker feels that these icons have faced a heavy impact due to the cancellation of the games. He said: “The jury is out on which of the top tennis stars will suffer most from what could become a lost year." “Nadal has won the French 12 times. He had a chance to equal Roger Federer there and that's something everybody probably thought would be possible, but now that's not happening,” Becker said. 38-year-old Federer will turn 39 in August, he is currently nursing a knee injury. But his age could make the matters worst. “We know Roger Federer defies the odds, but he will be reaching 40 next year and he won't get any younger,” Becker added.

Nadal and Federer to lose the most during the pandemic shutdown: Boris Becker

The United Kingdom has now the highest death toll in Europe, deaths from Northern Ireland and Scotland have been added to UK's total.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-survivors-in-china-want-to-sue-their-government-report-296858" hreflang="en">Coronavirus survivors in China want to sue their government: Report</a>

Over 32,000 people have died in the UK due to coronavirus. The World Health Organisation (WHO) isn’t surprised that a coronavirus case was reported in France in December. WHO says more cases of early origins may come to light.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/african-nations-decry-racism-in-china-296866" hreflang="en">African nations decry racism in China</a>

A French hospital retested old pneumonia cases. One sample from December 27 was found to be positive for coronavirus.

Australia and New Zealand have agreed on a trans-Tasman travel bubble. The aim is to boost the trade, travel and aviation sectors.

Talks between Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern have begun.The move is still several weeks away

Nearly 200 stranded Pakistanis crossed the border from India. The Indian government opened the border crossing for the first time on Tuesday, it had earlier extended the visa of stranded Pakistanis amid the nationwide lockdown.

Only cyclists will be allowed on 50km of Paris's busiest roads and only pedestrians will be allowed on another 30 streets. The measures will come into effect when the lockdown is eased next week. The French government also unveiled a 20 million euro package to boost cycling in the post coronavirus era.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison says virus likely emerged in a Wuhan wet market. But he has not ruled out the possibility that the virus escaped from a lab. Morrison has called for an independent international probe.

&nbsp;Bars, fitness centres &amp; salons are set to reopen in Hong Kong from Friday. Dancing or live musical performances will not be allowed for now. Measures like temperature checks and social distancing will remain in place.

Leaders of Brazil’s indigenous people have appealed to the World Health Organisation. They have urged the who to set up and emergency fund and provide PPEs. Leaders claim Brazil’s 850,000 indigenous people have been ignored by the Bolsonaro government.

Football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has returned to Italy. Ronaldo arrived in Turin in his private jet to rejoin his team Juventus. The Portuguese striker will have to complete a 14-day quarantine before he can resume training.

Tennis' World Number 2 Rafa Nadal believes the 2020 tennis season is virtually over. Nadal does not believe the tour will resume this year. Wimbledon has been cancelled, french open postponed, while doubts remain over the US Open.&nbsp;

Dozens of sheep paraded through the city of Atakum on Turkey’s northern Black Sea coast. Atakum is among 30 Turkish cities in a state of lockdown. Turkey has over 127,659 cases of coronavirus and 3,461 deaths.

The United Kingdom has now the highest death toll in Europe, deaths from Northern Ireland and Scotland have been added to UK's total. Also read: Coronavirus survivors in China want to sue their government: Report Over 32,000 people have died in the UK due to coronavirus.

The United Kingdom has now the highest death toll in Europe, deaths from Northern Ireland and Scotland have been added to UK's total. Also read: Coronavirus survivors in China want to sue their government: Report Over 32,000 people have died in the UK due to coronavirus. The World Health Organisation (WHO) isn’t surprised that a coronavirus case was reported in France in December. WHO says more cases of early origins may come to light. Also read: African nations decry racism in China A French hospital retested old pneumonia cases. One sample from December 27 was found to be positive for coronavirus. Australia and New Zealand have agreed on a trans-Tasman travel bubble. The aim is to boost the trade, travel and aviation sectors. Talks between Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern have begun.The move is still several weeks away Nearly 200 stranded Pakistanis crossed the border from India. The Indian government opened the border crossing for the first time on Tuesday, it had earlier extended the visa of stranded Pakistanis amid the nationwide lockdown. Only cyclists will be allowed on 50km of Paris's busiest roads and only pedestrians will be allowed on another 30 streets. The measures will come into effect when the lockdown is eased next week. The French government also unveiled a 20 million euro package to boost cycling in the post coronavirus era. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison says virus likely emerged in a Wuhan wet market. But he has not ruled out the possibility that the virus escaped from a lab. Morrison has called for an independent international probe. Bars, fitness centres & salons are set to reopen in Hong Kong from Friday. Dancing or live musical performances will not be allowed for now. Measures like temperature checks and social distancing will remain in place. Leaders of Brazil’s indigenous people have appealed to the World Health Organisation. They have urged the who to set up and emergency fund and provide PPEs. Leaders claim Brazil’s 850,000 indigenous people have been ignored by the Bolsonaro government. Football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has returned to Italy. Ronaldo arrived in Turin in his private jet to rejoin his team Juventus. The Portuguese striker will have to complete a 14-day quarantine before he can resume training. Tennis' World Number 2 Rafa Nadal believes the 2020 tennis season is virtually over. Nadal does not believe the tour will resume this year. Wimbledon has been cancelled, french open postponed, while doubts remain over the US Open. Dozens of sheep paraded through the city of Atakum on Turkey’s northern Black Sea coast. Atakum is among 30 Turkish cities in a state of lockdown. Turkey has over 127,659 cases of coronavirus and 3,461 deaths.

From United Kingdom to Turkey, coronavirus across the globe!

Rafael Nadal has said he views the rest of this year as "practically lost" for tennis and would even be relieved if the sport returned as normal at the start of 2021.

The men's and women's tours have been stopped due to the coronavirus pandemic, with Wimbledon cancelled for the first time since World War II and the French Open postponed until the end of September.&nbsp;

But Nadal, who has won 12 of his 19 grand slam titles at Roland Garros, believes the chances of tennis restarting before the end of this year are slim.&nbsp;

"I hope to play as soon as possible but if I think about it logically, we travel every week from one place to another, we are in contact with hotels, airports, all in different places," Nadal said in an interview with Spanish newspaper ABC on Tuesday.&nbsp;

"If you gave me the ability to guarantee that in January 2021, a normal season like before will begin, I would sign for that now with my eyes closed."

In a separate interview with El Pais, Nadal said: "I'm more looking to the Australian Open than what happens later this year. I see 2020 as practically lost."&nbsp;

Nadal at 33 is in the latter stages of his illustrious career and the hiatus came just as he looked to be closing in on the 20 major titles won by the 38-year-old Roger Federer.&nbsp;

If tennis returns this summer, Nadal could choose to skip the US Open and save himself for the French, given there would be just a week between the two.&nbsp;

"It's all hypothetical because I don't think it will be like that," said Nadal to ABC. "My feeling, and I say it with sadness and I won't lie to you, is that we are losing a year of our lives.&nbsp;

"And at 33 or 34 years old that is much more valuable than at 20 when you have many more years ahead, even if it's still a year.&nbsp;

"Frankly, I think that will not happen. From the US Open to Roland Garros with a week in between, I just don't think we can play."&nbsp;

Rafael Nadal has said he views the rest of this year as "practically lost" for tennis and would even be relieved if the sport returned as normal at the start of 2021.

Rafael Nadal has said he views the rest of this year as "practically lost" for tennis and would even be relieved if the sport returned as normal at the start of 2021. The men's and women's tours have been stopped due to the coronavirus pandemic, with Wimbledon cancelled for the first time since World War II and the French Open postponed until the end of September. But Nadal, who has won 12 of his 19 grand slam titles at Roland Garros, believes the chances of tennis restarting before the end of this year are slim. "I hope to play as soon as possible but if I think about it logically, we travel every week from one place to another, we are in contact with hotels, airports, all in different places," Nadal said in an interview with Spanish newspaper ABC on Tuesday. "If you gave me the ability to guarantee that in January 2021, a normal season like before will begin, I would sign for that now with my eyes closed." In a separate interview with El Pais, Nadal said: "I'm more looking to the Australian Open than what happens later this year. I see 2020 as practically lost." Nadal at 33 is in the latter stages of his illustrious career and the hiatus came just as he looked to be closing in on the 20 major titles won by the 38-year-old Roger Federer. If tennis returns this summer, Nadal could choose to skip the US Open and save himself for the French, given there would be just a week between the two. "It's all hypothetical because I don't think it will be like that," said Nadal to ABC. "My feeling, and I say it with sadness and I won't lie to you, is that we are losing a year of our lives. "And at 33 or 34 years old that is much more valuable than at 20 when you have many more years ahead, even if it's still a year. "Frankly, I think that will not happen. From the US Open to Roland Garros with a week in between, I just don't think we can play."

Nadal: 'I see 2020 as practically lost' for tennis

Australian tennis maverick Nick Kyrgios invited Rafael Nadal to take part in a cosy video chat on Sunday despite their stormy on-court relationship.

As the coronavirus has sent the tennis season into hibernation until July 13 at the earliest, a host of players have recently taken to social media for face-to-face exchanges.

So, on Sunday, after the BBC had asked for suggestions as to the most sought-after facetimes, Kyrgios was quick to respond.

"Rafa lets do Instagram live together.&nbsp;I am down with it. Rafael Nadal let's do it," wrote the Australian on Instagram.

Kyrgios and Nadal have endured a bitter relationship on court.

Last year, the 19-time Grand Slam winner accused the Australian of "lacking respect" after Kyrgios won a stormy encounter in Mexico.

Kyrgios responded by claiming the Spanish world number two was "super-salty".

They met again at Wimbledon last summer when Nadal won but fumed after the Australian appeared to spear a ball directly at him.

Australian tennis maverick Nick Kyrgios invited Rafael Nadal to take part in a cosy video chat on Sunday despite their stormy on-court relationship. As the coronavirus has sent the tennis season into hibernation until July 13 at the earliest, a host of players have recently taken to social media for face-to-face exchanges.

Australian tennis maverick Nick Kyrgios invited Rafael Nadal to take part in a cosy video chat on Sunday despite their stormy on-court relationship. As the coronavirus has sent the tennis season into hibernation until July 13 at the earliest, a host of players have recently taken to social media for face-to-face exchanges. So, on Sunday, after the BBC had asked for suggestions as to the most sought-after facetimes, Kyrgios was quick to respond. "Rafa lets do Instagram live together. I am down with it. Rafael Nadal let's do it," wrote the Australian on Instagram. Kyrgios and Nadal have endured a bitter relationship on court. Last year, the 19-time Grand Slam winner accused the Australian of "lacking respect" after Kyrgios won a stormy encounter in Mexico. Kyrgios responded by claiming the Spanish world number two was "super-salty". They met again at Wimbledon last summer when Nadal won but fumed after the Australian appeared to spear a ball directly at him.

Kyrgios tells bitter rival Nadal: 'Let's do Insta'

Swiss tennis ace Roger Federer on Wednesday took to Twitter to propose&nbsp;an idea for a merger of the men's and women's association.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Just wondering…..am I the only one thinking that now is the time for men’s and women’s tennis to be united and come together as one?
— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer/status/1252922285096423424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The men's division in the game is headed by the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) whereas the women's division is headed by Women's Tennis Association (WTA).&nbsp;

The 20-time Grand Slam winner said that "probably should have happened."&nbsp;

Roger Federer posted a series of tweets elaborating&nbsp;his proposal&nbsp; as he&nbsp;said: "We can come out of this with two weakened bodies or one stronger body."

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It probably should have happened a long time ago, but maybe now is really the time. 
These are tough times in every sport and we can come out of this with 2 weakened bodies or 1 stronger body. <a href="https://t.co/30SbbAla5g">https://t.co/30SbbAla5g</a>
— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer/status/1252931040399839233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Federer added: "I am not talking about merging competition on the court but merging the two governing bodies that oversee the men's and women's professional tours."

"It's too confusing for the fans when there are different ranking systems, different logos, different websites, different tournament categories."

The American tennis legend Billie Jean King was one of the first to voice his support to Federer's idea, he said: "The WTA on its own was always Plan B. I'm glad we are on the same page. Let's make it happen."

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I agree, and have been saying so since the early 1970s. One voice, women and men together, has long been my vision for tennis. 
 
The WTA on its own was always Plan B. 
 
I’m glad we are on the same page. 
 
Let’s make it happen. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OneVoice?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OneVoice</a> <a href="https://t.co/FHbQHLiY6v">https://t.co/FHbQHLiY6v</a>
— Billie Jean King (@BillieJeanKing) <a href="https://twitter.com/BillieJeanKing/status/1252953431414919168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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King played a major role in the creation of WTA.&nbsp;

Federer's long-time on-pitch rival and 19-time Grand Slam winner Rafael Nadal too joined the movement. He said: "It would be great to get out of this world crisis with the union of men's and women's tennis in only one organisation."

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Hey <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> as you know per our discussions I completely agree that it would be great to get out of this world crisis with the union of men's and women's tennis in one only organisation 🎾👍🏻 <a href="https://t.co/fTCfvMiU4G">https://t.co/fTCfvMiU4G</a>
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal/status/1252957445342846978?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Many leading ladies in the game came forward to support Roger Federer's idea. These ladies included Simona Halep and Serena Williams.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Just wondering…..am I the only one thinking that now is the time for men’s and women’s tennis to be united and come together as one?
— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer/status/1252922285096423424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Tennis has been on a halt since early March due to the on-going coronavirus pandemic. Players have been on a social media spree ever since and have shared various videos of them training or enjoying life with their loved ones.&nbsp;

Swiss tennis ace Roger Federer on Wednesday took to Twitter to propose an idea for a merger of the men's and women's association. Just wondering…..am I the only one thinking that now is the time for men’s and women’s tennis to be united and come together as one?

Swiss tennis ace Roger Federer on Wednesday took to Twitter to propose an idea for a merger of the men's and women's association. Just wondering…..am I the only one thinking that now is the time for men’s and women’s tennis to be united and come together as one? — Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) April 22, 2020 × The men's division in the game is headed by the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) whereas the women's division is headed by Women's Tennis Association (WTA). The 20-time Grand Slam winner said that "probably should have happened." Roger Federer posted a series of tweets elaborating his proposal as he said: "We can come out of this with two weakened bodies or one stronger body." It probably should have happened a long time ago, but maybe now is really the time. These are tough times in every sport and we can come out of this with 2 weakened bodies or 1 stronger body. https://t.co/30SbbAla5g — Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) April 22, 2020 × Federer added: "I am not talking about merging competition on the court but merging the two governing bodies that oversee the men's and women's professional tours." "It's too confusing for the fans when there are different ranking systems, different logos, different websites, different tournament categories." The American tennis legend Billie Jean King was one of the first to voice his support to Federer's idea, he said: "The WTA on its own was always Plan B. I'm glad we are on the same page. Let's make it happen." I agree, and have been saying so since the early 1970s. One voice, women and men together, has long been my vision for tennis. The WTA on its own was always Plan B. I’m glad we are on the same page. Let’s make it happen. #OneVoice https://t.co/FHbQHLiY6v — Billie Jean King (@BillieJeanKing) April 22, 2020 × King played a major role in the creation of WTA. Federer's long-time on-pitch rival and 19-time Grand Slam winner Rafael Nadal too joined the movement. He said: "It would be great to get out of this world crisis with the union of men's and women's tennis in only one organisation." Hey @rogerfederer as you know per our discussions I completely agree that it would be great to get out of this world crisis with the union of men's and women's tennis in one only organisation 🎾👍🏻 https://t.co/fTCfvMiU4G — Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) April 22, 2020 × Many leading ladies in the game came forward to support Roger Federer's idea. These ladies included Simona Halep and Serena Williams. Just wondering…..am I the only one thinking that now is the time for men’s and women’s tennis to be united and come together as one? — Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) April 22, 2020 × Tennis has been on a halt since early March due to the on-going coronavirus pandemic. Players have been on a social media spree ever since and have shared various videos of them training or enjoying life with their loved ones.

Roger Federer proposes 'merger' of tennis associations, support pours in

Rafael Nadal thinks the global nature of tennis means there is little chance tournaments will go ahead any time soon as sport continues to be paralysed by the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic also anticipates a lengthy delay before tennis can be played even behind closed doors, with the world number one expecting players to have to wait a "few months".&nbsp;

The French Open, which Nadal has won a record 12 times, has been postponed until September, shortly after the US Open, while Wimbledon was cancelled earlier this month for the first time since World War II.&nbsp;

But the prospect of either grand slams at Roland Garros or Flushing Meadows being played with fans appears increasingly remote.&nbsp;

"Tennis is a global sport," Nadal told Spanish radio station Onda Cero on Wednesday night. "We go from country to country and a lot of people have to move around.&nbsp;

"It seems difficult to me for any big tournament to be played in the short or medium term."&nbsp;

Football's major leagues are preparing to play behind closed doors for several weeks to complete their seasons and avoid losing considerable sums of money from broadcasting contracts.&nbsp;

But tennis tournaments are more reliant on fans for their income, making it more complicated to stage competitions in empty stadiums.

"It is not an easy decision," Djokovic told the same programme. "I am ready but I think we have to wait a few months."&nbsp;

"If you could play behind closed doors, I would be delighted but I think it's very difficult," added Nadal.&nbsp;

Rafael Nadal thinks the global nature of tennis means there is little chance tournaments will go ahead any time soon as sport continues to be paralysed by the coronavirus pandemic.

Rafael Nadal thinks the global nature of tennis means there is little chance tournaments will go ahead any time soon as sport continues to be paralysed by the coronavirus pandemic. Novak Djokovic also anticipates a lengthy delay before tennis can be played even behind closed doors, with the world number one expecting players to have to wait a "few months". The French Open, which Nadal has won a record 12 times, has been postponed until September, shortly after the US Open, while Wimbledon was cancelled earlier this month for the first time since World War II. But the prospect of either grand slams at Roland Garros or Flushing Meadows being played with fans appears increasingly remote. "Tennis is a global sport," Nadal told Spanish radio station Onda Cero on Wednesday night. "We go from country to country and a lot of people have to move around. "It seems difficult to me for any big tournament to be played in the short or medium term." Football's major leagues are preparing to play behind closed doors for several weeks to complete their seasons and avoid losing considerable sums of money from broadcasting contracts. But tennis tournaments are more reliant on fans for their income, making it more complicated to stage competitions in empty stadiums. "It is not an easy decision," Djokovic told the same programme. "I am ready but I think we have to wait a few months." "If you could play behind closed doors, I would be delighted but I think it's very difficult," added Nadal.

Rafael Nadal expecting lengthy wait before tennis returns

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