Spanish tennis ace Rafael Nadal donated his 2019 French Open to #LaMejorAsistencia, an event set up by Spanish ABC Basketball League which will raise money for Red Cross.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-urges-fans-to-stay-active-while-self-quarantining-290872">Rafael Nadal urges fans to 'stay active' while self-quarantining</a>

The king of clay's shirt was auctioned for €20,500. The reason why Nadal is known to be the 'King of Clay' because he was the first player in the Open Era to win the clay-turfed French Open 12 times.&nbsp;

The charity event raised more than €143,000 and will be sent to medical fighters in Spain who are battling coronavirus. Spain is one of the worst-hit nations in terms of coronavirus, with over 1,66,000 cases and 16,972 deaths.

Nadal has been active on social media updating his fans about how has he been spending time during the quarantine. He showed off his cooking skills while preparing a meal for his wife and last week he posted another workout picture of his.&nbsp;

The Spaniard is currently behind Novak Djokovic in world tennis rankings. His native country (Spain) has been among the worst-hit nation in terms of coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Tennis season has come to halt with Wimbledon's cancellation being the latest victim of the virus, the rest of the season still in doubts.&nbsp;

The rate of new coronavirus infections and deaths in Spain slowed again on Sunday as the country, suffering from one of the world's worst outbreaks of the pandemic, began its fourth week under a near-total lockdown.

Spanish tennis ace Rafael Nadal donated his 2019 French Open to #LaMejorAsistencia, an event set up by Spanish ABC Basketball League which will raise money for Red Cross.

Spanish tennis ace Rafael Nadal donated his 2019 French Open to #LaMejorAsistencia, an event set up by Spanish ABC Basketball League which will raise money for Red Cross. Also read: Rafael Nadal urges fans to 'stay active' while self-quarantining The king of clay's shirt was auctioned for €20,500. The reason why Nadal is known to be the 'King of Clay' because he was the first player in the Open Era to win the clay-turfed French Open 12 times. The charity event raised more than €143,000 and will be sent to medical fighters in Spain who are battling coronavirus. Spain is one of the worst-hit nations in terms of coronavirus, with over 1,66,000 cases and 16,972 deaths. Nadal has been active on social media updating his fans about how has he been spending time during the quarantine. He showed off his cooking skills while preparing a meal for his wife and last week he posted another workout picture of his. The Spaniard is currently behind Novak Djokovic in world tennis rankings. His native country (Spain) has been among the worst-hit nation in terms of coronavirus pandemic. Tennis season has come to halt with Wimbledon's cancellation being the latest victim of the virus, the rest of the season still in doubts. The rate of new coronavirus infections and deaths in Spain slowed again on Sunday as the country, suffering from one of the world's worst outbreaks of the pandemic, began its fourth week under a near-total lockdown.

COVID-19: Spanish ace Rafael Nadal's french open shirt auctioned for thousands in charity event

Spanish tennis ace Rafael Nadal has posted a photo of him working out on his Twitter account where he urged his fans to stay active despite being at home.&nbsp;

The world no. 2 captioned the picture in Spanish its translation was: "We continue at home [Winking face] You have to stay active [💪🏻] #yomequedoencasa #iostoacasa #jerestechezmoi #istayhome"

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En casa seguimos 😉 
Hay que mantenerse activos 💪🏻 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/yomequedoencasa?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#yomequedoencasa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/iostoacasa?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#iostoacasa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/jerestechezmoi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#jerestechezmoi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/istayhome?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#istayhome</a> <a href="https://t.co/pSVo3THx6j">pic.twitter.com/pSVo3THx6j</a>
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal/status/1244294520226959361?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Nadal has been active on social media updating his fans about how has he been spending time during the quarantine. He showed off his cooking skills while preparing a meal for his wife and last week he posted another workout picture of his.&nbsp;

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Hay que animarse y seguir!!!! 💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/yomequedoencasa?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#yomequedoencasa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/iorestoacasa?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#iorestoacasa</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/istayhome?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#istayhome</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/jerestechezmoi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#jerestechezmoi</a> <a href="https://t.co/3uX6pc4ubo">pic.twitter.com/3uX6pc4ubo</a>
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal/status/1245689760829648901?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The Spaniard is currently behind Novak Djokovic in world tennis rankings. His native country (Spain) has been among the worst-hit nation in terms of coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Tennis season has come to halt with Wimbledon's cancellation being the latest victim of the virus, the rest of the season still in doubts.&nbsp;

According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 1,273,990 people worldwide and 69,444 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

The rate of new coronavirus infections and deaths in Spain slowed again on Sunday as the country, suffering from one of the world's worst outbreaks of the pandemic, began its fourth week under a near-total lockdown.

Deaths from the highly infectious COVID-19 respiratory disease rose to 12,418 on Saturday - the second-highest worldwide after Italy. However, the toll of 674 people who died during the past 24 hours was down from Saturday's 809 and well below Thursday's daily record of 950, the Health Ministry said.

Spanish tennis ace Rafael Nadal has posted a photo of him working out on his Twitter account where he urged his fans to stay active despite being at home. The world no.

Spanish tennis ace Rafael Nadal has posted a photo of him working out on his Twitter account where he urged his fans to stay active despite being at home. The world no. 2 captioned the picture in Spanish its translation was: "We continue at home [Winking face] You have to stay active [💪🏻] #yomequedoencasa #iostoacasa #jerestechezmoi #istayhome" En casa seguimos 😉 Hay que mantenerse activos 💪🏻 #yomequedoencasa #iostoacasa #jerestechezmoi #istayhome pic.twitter.com/pSVo3THx6j — Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) March 29, 2020 × Nadal has been active on social media updating his fans about how has he been spending time during the quarantine. He showed off his cooking skills while preparing a meal for his wife and last week he posted another workout picture of his. Hay que animarse y seguir!!!! 💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻 #yomequedoencasa #iorestoacasa#istayhome #jerestechezmoi pic.twitter.com/3uX6pc4ubo — Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) April 2, 2020 × The Spaniard is currently behind Novak Djokovic in world tennis rankings. His native country (Spain) has been among the worst-hit nation in terms of coronavirus pandemic. Tennis season has come to halt with Wimbledon's cancellation being the latest victim of the virus, the rest of the season still in doubts. According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 1,273,990 people worldwide and 69,444 people have been killed due to this pandemic. The rate of new coronavirus infections and deaths in Spain slowed again on Sunday as the country, suffering from one of the world's worst outbreaks of the pandemic, began its fourth week under a near-total lockdown. Deaths from the highly infectious COVID-19 respiratory disease rose to 12,418 on Saturday - the second-highest worldwide after Italy. However, the toll of 674 people who died during the past 24 hours was down from Saturday's 809 and well below Thursday's daily record of 950, the Health Ministry said.

Rafael Nadal urges fans to 'stay active' while self-quarantining

In an electrifying quarter-final match of the Australian Open on Wednesday, Austrian&nbsp;tennis star Dominic Thiem knocked out world number 1 Rafael Nadal 7-6(3) 7-6(4) 4-6 7-6(6).&nbsp;

Thiem booked a spot in the semi-finals as former champion Nadal crashed out.&nbsp;

The 26-year-old will face Alex Zverev for a place in the final, a match-up scarcely imaginable at the start of the tournament.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/halep-destroys-kontaveit-to-reach-australian-open-semi-final-277182">Halep destroys Kontaveit to reach Australian Open semi final</a>

Thiem became only the second Austrian to reach the last four at Melbourne Park, following Thomas Muster's runs in 1989 and 1997.

(With inputs from Reuters)

In an electrifying quarter-final match of the Australian Open on Wednesday, Austrian tennis star Dominic Thiem knocked out world number 1 Rafael Nadal 7-6(3) 7-6(4) 4-6 7-6(6).

In an electrifying quarter-final match of the Australian Open on Wednesday, Austrian tennis star Dominic Thiem knocked out world number 1 Rafael Nadal 7-6(3) 7-6(4) 4-6 7-6(6). Thiem booked a spot in the semi-finals as former champion Nadal crashed out. The 26-year-old will face Alex Zverev for a place in the final, a match-up scarcely imaginable at the start of the tournament. Also read: Halep destroys Kontaveit to reach Australian Open semi final Thiem became only the second Austrian to reach the last four at Melbourne Park, following Thomas Muster's runs in 1989 and 1997. (With inputs from Reuters)

Australian Open 2020: Dominic Thiem beats Rafael Nadal to enter semi-finals

Rafael Nadal defeated Nick Kyrgios in a grudge match of tennis in the Australian Open. The scores were 6-3, 3-6, 7-6 (8/6), 7-6 (7/4).&nbsp;

The Spaniard was handed his first-ever set defeat in the tournament by the Aussie tennis ace Kyrgios.

Nick Kyrgios stepped in the court almost teary-eyed donning the Lakers jersey paying tribute to the late legend Kobe Bryant, who was killed in a helicopter crash on Monday.&nbsp;

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Competing with a heavy heart tonight 💔<a href="https://twitter.com/NickKyrgios?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NickKyrgios</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/7mXMbWb8sh">pic.twitter.com/7mXMbWb8sh</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1221708514755858437?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Missed the warm-up?<a href="https://twitter.com/NickKyrgios?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NickKyrgios</a> paid homage to the late Kobe Bryant 8⃣💔<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/kTKniTJykw">pic.twitter.com/kTKniTJykw</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1221716099303014402?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Kyrgios in his post-match conference talked about this tragic event that shook the sports world.

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/NickKyrgios?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NickKyrgios</a> reflects on the late Kobe Bryant and how he used the news to 'motivate' himself in his fourth round match up with Rafael Nadal.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> <a href="https://t.co/3a2Qeny0DT">pic.twitter.com/3a2Qeny0DT</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1221785903028416512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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.<a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> pays tribute to the late Kobe Bryant.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/82wGbWfN3z">pic.twitter.com/82wGbWfN3z</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1221770804419010560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The off-court rivalry between Nick Kyrgios and Rafael Nadal started when the World No 1 &nbsp;(Nadal) called Kyrgios behaviour inappropriate and said that "he lacks respect". Kyrgios reverted by calling him "super salty". Recently, Nick Kyrgios mimicked Rafa's pre-serve routine during his match against Simon Gilles.&nbsp;

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They don't call him the world No.1 for nothing ☝️🇪🇸 
 
After 3 hours and 38 minutes <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> def. Nick Kyrgios 6-3 3-6 7-6(6) 7-6(4) to advance to his 12th <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> quarterfinal.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> <a href="https://t.co/a14tlkZWKt">pic.twitter.com/a14tlkZWKt</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1221764153762877440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Rafael Nadal reacted to this mimicry in his post-match press meet after winning the third round. He said: "I really don’t care. I am here to play tennis. Honestly, I don’t care at all. It was funny, good. That’s it,".&nbsp;

Rafael Nadal after defeating the Australian showman was impressed by him. He praised Kyrgios for his good sportsman spirit. He was given good competition from the Australian.&nbsp;

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"When he is focused on what he is doing, I think he is a very important player for our sport."<a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> with some powerful praise for <a href="https://twitter.com/NickKyrgios?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NickKyrgios</a> after their fourth-round clash.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> <a href="https://t.co/fHXCGMFHZD">pic.twitter.com/fHXCGMFHZD</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1221811935685087233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"When he is playing like today with this positive attitude he gives a lot of positive things to our sport," Nadal said.

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"He's one of the highest talents that we have on our tour." 
 
Respect from <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> towards opponent <a href="https://twitter.com/NickKyrgios?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NickKyrgios</a> 👊<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/DxU4G16C18">pic.twitter.com/DxU4G16C18</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1221767042337996800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"He's one of the highest talents we have on our tour and I like the Nick Kyrgios during the whole of this tournament." the Spaniard added.

The 19-time Grand Slam winner will be eyeing Federer's 20 grand slam record. He is set to face Dominic Thiem. The Austrian was defeated twice in the French Open finals by the Spaniard.&nbsp;

Rafael Nadal defeated Nick Kyrgios in a grudge match of tennis in the Australian Open. The scores were 6-3, 3-6, 7-6 (8/6), 7-6 (7/4). The Spaniard was handed his first-ever set defeat in the tournament by the Aussie tennis ace Kyrgios.

Rafael Nadal defeated Nick Kyrgios in a grudge match of tennis in the Australian Open. The scores were 6-3, 3-6, 7-6 (8/6), 7-6 (7/4). The Spaniard was handed his first-ever set defeat in the tournament by the Aussie tennis ace Kyrgios. Nick Kyrgios stepped in the court almost teary-eyed donning the Lakers jersey paying tribute to the late legend Kobe Bryant, who was killed in a helicopter crash on Monday. Competing with a heavy heart tonight 💔@NickKyrgios | #AO2020 | #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/7mXMbWb8sh — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2020 × Missed the warm-up?@NickKyrgios paid homage to the late Kobe Bryant 8⃣💔#AO2020 | #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/kTKniTJykw — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2020 × Kyrgios in his post-match conference talked about this tragic event that shook the sports world. .@NickKyrgios reflects on the late Kobe Bryant and how he used the news to 'motivate' himself in his fourth round match up with Rafael Nadal.#AusOpen | #AO2020 pic.twitter.com/3a2Qeny0DT — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2020 × .@RafaelNadal pays tribute to the late Kobe Bryant.#AO2020 | #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/82wGbWfN3z — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2020 × The off-court rivalry between Nick Kyrgios and Rafael Nadal started when the World No 1 (Nadal) called Kyrgios behaviour inappropriate and said that "he lacks respect". Kyrgios reverted by calling him "super salty". Recently, Nick Kyrgios mimicked Rafa's pre-serve routine during his match against Simon Gilles. They don't call him the world No.1 for nothing ☝️🇪🇸 After 3 hours and 38 minutes @RafaelNadal def. Nick Kyrgios 6-3 3-6 7-6(6) 7-6(4) to advance to his 12th #AusOpen quarterfinal.#AO2020 pic.twitter.com/a14tlkZWKt — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2020 × Rafael Nadal reacted to this mimicry in his post-match press meet after winning the third round. He said: "I really don’t care. I am here to play tennis. Honestly, I don’t care at all. It was funny, good. That’s it,". Rafael Nadal after defeating the Australian showman was impressed by him. He praised Kyrgios for his good sportsman spirit. He was given good competition from the Australian. "When he is focused on what he is doing, I think he is a very important player for our sport."@RafaelNadal with some powerful praise for @NickKyrgios after their fourth-round clash.#AusOpen | #AO2020 pic.twitter.com/fHXCGMFHZD — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2020 × "When he is playing like today with this positive attitude he gives a lot of positive things to our sport," Nadal said. "He's one of the highest talents that we have on our tour." Respect from @RafaelNadal towards opponent @NickKyrgios 👊#AO2020 | #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/DxU4G16C18 — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2020 × "He's one of the highest talents we have on our tour and I like the Nick Kyrgios during the whole of this tournament." the Spaniard added. The 19-time Grand Slam winner will be eyeing Federer's 20 grand slam record. He is set to face Dominic Thiem. The Austrian was defeated twice in the French Open finals by the Spaniard.

Australian Open: Rafa Nadal 'impressed' with Kyrgios performance, Spaniard moves to round four

World number one <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadals-sweet-gesture-during-australian-open-match-melts-everyones-hearts-276308">Rafael Nadal</a> renews his rivalry with Nick Kyrgios in a blockbuster fourth-round clash at the Australian Open on Monday, as the Spaniard prepares for the trickiest test of his Melbourne campaign. Nadal has not dropped a set so far as he bids for just his second title at Melbourne Park and was at his ruthless best to dismiss compatriot Pablo Carreno Busta and reach the last 16.

In <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-maturing-kyrgios-pulls-back-from-dark-place-for-win-276238">Kyrgios</a>, however, he faces an opponent who has won two of their three previous matches on hardcourts. It will be the first singles meeting between the pair since last year's Wimbledon when the temperamental <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-nadal-cruises-to-round-three-after-beating-argentine-federico-delbonis-276232">Kyrgios</a>, who had previously described Nadal as a sore loser and "super salty", lost in four sets.

"When he plays good tennis and shows passion for this game, he's a positive player for our tour, and I want my tour bigger, not smaller," Nadal said when asked about Kyrgios, who has been placed on probation by the ATP for his behaviour.

"It's clear, of course, that when he does stuff that in my opinion is not good, I don't like." Kyrgios has shown a different side to his character in recent weeks, calling on the tennis world to help the victims of Australia's bushfire crisis and triggering an appeal that has raised more than $5.5 million.

After edging past Russia's Karen Khachanov in five sets to set up an eighth meeting with Nadal, he also had kind words for the 19-times Grand Slam champion.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-nick-kyrgios-heats-up-things-by-mimicking-nadal-276255">Australian Open: Nick Kyrgios heats up things by mimicking Nadal</a>

<img alt="Rafael Nadal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="935ef6d2-3c8f-4db3-815f-10d09d2653a0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2888%29_2.jpg" /> 
[&nbsp;World number one Rafael Nadal (Courtesy: AFP) ]

"I'm super excited honestly. Playing one of the greatest tennis players on centre court at your own slam, it's pretty damn cool," Kyrgios said. 
"It's going to be another physical battle. Nothing comes easy with him ... I'm looking forward to it. That's why you play."

Kyrgios had come under further scrutiny for mocking Nadal's pre-serve routine in his second-round match against Gilles Simon following a time violation, but the 24-year-old said he only had respect for the Spaniard.

"At the end of the day, we're two different players. We go about it completely different. After Wimbledon, I got beaten by the better player. I shook his hand, looked him in the eye and said 'too good,'" Kyrgios added. "Regardless, if we don't like each other or whatever, there's a layer of respect. He's one of the greatest of all time. I also read that he thinks I'm good for the sport.

"Doesn't necessarily mean we like each other, but ... we're going to go out there and give contrasting styles and personalities." In other matches, Dominic Thiem faces Gael Monfils, Daniil Medvedev meets Stan Wawrinka and Andrey Rublev squares off against Alexander Zverev.

In the women's draw, 2018 runner-up Simona Halep plays Elise Mertens, Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova faces 17th seed Angelique Kerber while Garbine Muguruza meets Kiki Bertens. 
&nbsp;

World number one Rafael Nadal renews his rivalry with Nick Kyrgios in a blockbuster fourth-round clash at the Australian Open on Monday, as the Spaniard prepares for the trickiest test of his Melbourne campaign.

World number one Rafael Nadal renews his rivalry with Nick Kyrgios in a blockbuster fourth-round clash at the Australian Open on Monday, as the Spaniard prepares for the trickiest test of his Melbourne campaign. Nadal has not dropped a set so far as he bids for just his second title at Melbourne Park and was at his ruthless best to dismiss compatriot Pablo Carreno Busta and reach the last 16. In Kyrgios, however, he faces an opponent who has won two of their three previous matches on hardcourts. It will be the first singles meeting between the pair since last year's Wimbledon when the temperamental Kyrgios, who had previously described Nadal as a sore loser and "super salty", lost in four sets. "When he plays good tennis and shows passion for this game, he's a positive player for our tour, and I want my tour bigger, not smaller," Nadal said when asked about Kyrgios, who has been placed on probation by the ATP for his behaviour. "It's clear, of course, that when he does stuff that in my opinion is not good, I don't like." Kyrgios has shown a different side to his character in recent weeks, calling on the tennis world to help the victims of Australia's bushfire crisis and triggering an appeal that has raised more than $5.5 million. After edging past Russia's Karen Khachanov in five sets to set up an eighth meeting with Nadal, he also had kind words for the 19-times Grand Slam champion. Also Read: Australian Open: Nick Kyrgios heats up things by mimicking Nadal [ World number one Rafael Nadal (Courtesy: AFP) ] "I'm super excited honestly. Playing one of the greatest tennis players on centre court at your own slam, it's pretty damn cool," Kyrgios said. "It's going to be another physical battle. Nothing comes easy with him ... I'm looking forward to it. That's why you play." Kyrgios had come under further scrutiny for mocking Nadal's pre-serve routine in his second-round match against Gilles Simon following a time violation, but the 24-year-old said he only had respect for the Spaniard. "At the end of the day, we're two different players. We go about it completely different. After Wimbledon, I got beaten by the better player. I shook his hand, looked him in the eye and said 'too good,'" Kyrgios added. "Regardless, if we don't like each other or whatever, there's a layer of respect. He's one of the greatest of all time. I also read that he thinks I'm good for the sport. "Doesn't necessarily mean we like each other, but ... we're going to go out there and give contrasting styles and personalities." In other matches, Dominic Thiem faces Gael Monfils, Daniil Medvedev meets Stan Wawrinka and Andrey Rublev squares off against Alexander Zverev. In the women's draw, 2018 runner-up Simona Halep plays Elise Mertens, Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova faces 17th seed Angelique Kerber while Garbine Muguruza meets Kiki Bertens.

'New Nick' Kyrgios vs Rafael Nadal in fourth-round blockbuster

Nick Kyrgios has reached the third round of the Australian Open in style, after beating Frenchman Simon Gille.&nbsp;

What caught the eye was both players mimicking Nadal's service routine when they were given time violations.&nbsp;

Kyrgios might face Nadal in the fourth round.&nbsp;

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When <a href="https://twitter.com/NickKyrgios?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NickKyrgios</a> tells you to get out, you get out. 
 
Home Slam Advantage 😁<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/gbxQTAL3og">pic.twitter.com/gbxQTAL3og</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1220265468696637442?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Aussie tennis player Kyrgios's relationship with World No 1 Nadal has not been hidden from the world.

They share a sour relationship. Their rivalry off-court began after Nadal was irritated with Kygrios' underarm serve in Acapulco last year, to which Nadal said that he 'lacks respect'.&nbsp;

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Just <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> doing what Rafael Nadal does best 💯<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/lSVJxmAba8">pic.twitter.com/lSVJxmAba8</a>
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Following this, Nick did not hesitate to call the Spaniard 'super-salty'. During the Wimbledon match between the two, Kyrgios' bad behaviour during the match came in light.&nbsp;

Kyrgios has also criticised Nadal for the time he takes between points.&nbsp;

When he was asked about who did a better impression of the Spaniard, he said: "I don't wear underwear, so probably Gilles'."

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The man who started it all lays down five aces to add $500 to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Aces4BushfireRelief?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Aces4BushfireRelief</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/NickKyrgios?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NickKyrgios</a> takes the first set 6-2.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/TnLQLbVTUa">pic.twitter.com/TnLQLbVTUa</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1220263864924884992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The two have met 7 times on the tennis court, in which Nadal leads 4-3 over the Aussie. Kyrgios, However, edges past Rafael Nadal 2-1 on hard courts. &nbsp;

The two might not agree on everything, but one thing they stood together is for the relief efforts for Australian Bushfire relief workers. Nadal and Kygios have donated a generous amount for the relief funds in Australia.&nbsp;

Nadal, along with Roger Federer decided to donate $250,000 in the 'Rally for relief' initiative before the commencement of the tournament.

Aussie Showman promised A$200 per ace, he hit 28 aces against Simon.

Former tennis legend John McEnroe has also said he will contribute A$1,000 to the appeal for each set Kyrgios wins in the tournament.

Nick Kyrgios has reached the third round of the Australian Open in style, after beating Frenchman Simon Gille. What caught the eye was both players mimicking Nadal's service routine when they were given time violations.

Nick Kyrgios has reached the third round of the Australian Open in style, after beating Frenchman Simon Gille. What caught the eye was both players mimicking Nadal's service routine when they were given time violations. Kyrgios might face Nadal in the fourth round. When @NickKyrgios tells you to get out, you get out. Home Slam Advantage 😁#AO2020 | #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/gbxQTAL3og — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 23, 2020 × Aussie tennis player Kyrgios's relationship with World No 1 Nadal has not been hidden from the world. They share a sour relationship. Their rivalry off-court began after Nadal was irritated with Kygrios' underarm serve in Acapulco last year, to which Nadal said that he 'lacks respect'. Just @RafaelNadal doing what Rafael Nadal does best 💯#AO2020 | #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/lSVJxmAba8 — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 23, 2020 × Following this, Nick did not hesitate to call the Spaniard 'super-salty'. During the Wimbledon match between the two, Kyrgios' bad behaviour during the match came in light. Kyrgios has also criticised Nadal for the time he takes between points. When he was asked about who did a better impression of the Spaniard, he said: "I don't wear underwear, so probably Gilles'." The man who started it all lays down five aces to add $500 to #Aces4BushfireRelief.@NickKyrgios takes the first set 6-2.#AO2020 | #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/TnLQLbVTUa — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 23, 2020 × The two have met 7 times on the tennis court, in which Nadal leads 4-3 over the Aussie. Kyrgios, However, edges past Rafael Nadal 2-1 on hard courts. The two might not agree on everything, but one thing they stood together is for the relief efforts for Australian Bushfire relief workers. Nadal and Kygios have donated a generous amount for the relief funds in Australia. Nadal, along with Roger Federer decided to donate $250,000 in the 'Rally for relief' initiative before the commencement of the tournament. Aussie Showman promised A$200 per ace, he hit 28 aces against Simon. Former tennis legend John McEnroe has also said he will contribute A$1,000 to the appeal for each set Kyrgios wins in the tournament.

Australian Open: Nick Kyrgios heats up things by mimicking Nadal

Spanish tennis player <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../australian-open-nadal-djokovic-and-federer-go- through-first-round-rain-plays-spoil-spot-275705">Rafael Nadal</a> on Thursday progressed to the third round of the ongoing Australian Open.

The world number one Nadal went past Federico Delbonis of Argentina in straight sets.

Nadal defeated Delbonis 6-3, 7-6, 6-1 to march into the third round. The 33-year-old did not give his opponent any chance in the first set and dropped just three games to take the momentum in his corner.

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ICYMI A moment *that* ball kid will never forget.. 
 
And nor will <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> I <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> <a href="https://t.co/pnOiQUWxOc">pic.twitter.com/pnOiQUWxOc</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1220387890372513798?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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In the second set, Delbonis provided a challenge to the world number one, but Nadal went on to maintain his composure to take the set 7-6. 
With two sets in his corner, Nadal decimated his opponent in the final set, dropping just one game and hence winning the match.

Nadal will next face Pablo Carreno Busta in the third round on Saturday.

On Wednesday, Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic had also progressed to the third round of the tournament.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Spanish tennis player Rafael Nadal on Thursday progressed to the third round of the ongoing Australian Open. The world number one Nadal went past Federico Delbonis of Argentina in straight sets.

Spanish tennis player Rafael Nadal on Thursday progressed to the third round of the ongoing Australian Open. The world number one Nadal went past Federico Delbonis of Argentina in straight sets. Nadal defeated Delbonis 6-3, 7-6, 6-1 to march into the third round. The 33-year-old did not give his opponent any chance in the first set and dropped just three games to take the momentum in his corner. ICYMI A moment *that* ball kid will never forget.. And nor will @RafaelNadal #AusOpen I #AO2020 pic.twitter.com/pnOiQUWxOc — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 23, 2020 × In the second set, Delbonis provided a challenge to the world number one, but Nadal went on to maintain his composure to take the set 7-6. With two sets in his corner, Nadal decimated his opponent in the final set, dropping just one game and hence winning the match. Nadal will next face Pablo Carreno Busta in the third round on Saturday. On Wednesday, Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic had also progressed to the third round of the tournament.

Australian Open: Nadal cruises to round three after beating Argentine Federico Delbonis

Australian Open was hit on Monday by morning showers which suspended the play just hours after they were started.&nbsp;

World No 3 Roger Federer was dominant in the first round as he beat World No 75 Steve Johnson. The play was interrupted by rain but the play resumed and Federer in a breathtaking display beat the American 6-3, 6-2, 6-2.&nbsp;

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ICYMI 6-time champ <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> kicked off his 22nd consecutive <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> campaign with a speedy 6-3 6-2 6-2 victory 
 
Match report 👉<a href="https://t.co/CSdsXRRCCx">https://t.co/CSdsXRRCCx</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> <a href="https://t.co/b4xY8zjvFq">pic.twitter.com/b4xY8zjvFq</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1219277149938438144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The Swiss continued his streak of being unbeaten in the first round in Melbourne (21-0).&nbsp;

World No 2 Novak Djokovic survived a minor scare against Jan-Lennard Struff on Monday night. He beat Struff 7-6 (5), 6-2, 2-6, 6-1 at Rod Laver Arena to begin his journey for eight Australian Open title. The defending champion has become the sixth man to win 900 tour-level matches.

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Green means GO. 
 
Bidding for a record-extending eighth <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> title, <a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DjokerNole</a> recorded the 900th tour-level victory of his career with a 7-6(5) 6-2 2-6 6-1 win over Jan-Lennard Struff on Day 1 👏 
 
Match report 👉 <a href="https://t.co/sLA4SG8gp8">https://t.co/sLA4SG8gp8</a> <a href="https://t.co/7MeHxqnwAS">pic.twitter.com/7MeHxqnwAS</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1219323992395407361?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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On Tuesday, the weather is predicted to be clear and sunny. The matches are predicted to get through in the afternoon.

World No 1 Rafael Nadal started his campaign after displaying his dominance over Bolivia's Hugo Dellien. The Spaniard moved a step closer to his 20th Grand Slam after beating Hugo 6-2, 6-3, 6-0.

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The mentality of a legend 💯<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/IeQxpbmXXk">pic.twitter.com/IeQxpbmXXk</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1219516577306927104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Nadal will face the winner of Argentine Federico Delbonis and Portuguese Joao Sousa in the next round.&nbsp;

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Rafa Rolls 🏃‍♂️<a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> fends off a valiant effort from Dellien and slams the door 6-2 6-3 6-0.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> |<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/s5svPwjzFE">pic.twitter.com/s5svPwjzFE</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1219496114275213312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2020</a></blockquote>
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His fellow Spaniard Pablo Carreno Busta battled past Slovakian Jozef Kovalik 6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 7-6(2), the match went on for two hours and 37 minutes. World No 27 smashed 41 winners to proceed to the next round.

Weather Forcast on Wednesday and Thursday is scaring as heavy showers are predicted in Melbourne. Play suspension could spoil the highly anticipated Grand Slam.&nbsp;

Australian Open was hit on Monday by morning showers which suspended the play just hours after they were started. World No 3 Roger Federer was dominant in the first round as he beat World No 75 Steve Johnson.

Australian Open was hit on Monday by morning showers which suspended the play just hours after they were started. World No 3 Roger Federer was dominant in the first round as he beat World No 75 Steve Johnson. The play was interrupted by rain but the play resumed and Federer in a breathtaking display beat the American 6-3, 6-2, 6-2. ICYMI 6-time champ @rogerfederer kicked off his 22nd consecutive #AusOpen campaign with a speedy 6-3 6-2 6-2 victory Match report 👉https://t.co/CSdsXRRCCx#AO2020 pic.twitter.com/b4xY8zjvFq — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 20, 2020 × The Swiss continued his streak of being unbeaten in the first round in Melbourne (21-0). World No 2 Novak Djokovic survived a minor scare against Jan-Lennard Struff on Monday night. He beat Struff 7-6 (5), 6-2, 2-6, 6-1 at Rod Laver Arena to begin his journey for eight Australian Open title. The defending champion has become the sixth man to win 900 tour-level matches. Green means GO. Bidding for a record-extending eighth #AusOpen title, @DjokerNole recorded the 900th tour-level victory of his career with a 7-6(5) 6-2 2-6 6-1 win over Jan-Lennard Struff on Day 1 👏 Match report 👉 https://t.co/sLA4SG8gp8 pic.twitter.com/7MeHxqnwAS — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 20, 2020 × On Tuesday, the weather is predicted to be clear and sunny. The matches are predicted to get through in the afternoon. World No 1 Rafael Nadal started his campaign after displaying his dominance over Bolivia's Hugo Dellien. The Spaniard moved a step closer to his 20th Grand Slam after beating Hugo 6-2, 6-3, 6-0. The mentality of a legend 💯#AO2020 | #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/IeQxpbmXXk — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 21, 2020 × Nadal will face the winner of Argentine Federico Delbonis and Portuguese Joao Sousa in the next round. Rafa Rolls 🏃‍♂️@RafaelNadal fends off a valiant effort from Dellien and slams the door 6-2 6-3 6-0.#AO2020 |#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/s5svPwjzFE — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 21, 2020 × His fellow Spaniard Pablo Carreno Busta battled past Slovakian Jozef Kovalik 6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 7-6(2), the match went on for two hours and 37 minutes. World No 27 smashed 41 winners to proceed to the next round. Weather Forcast on Wednesday and Thursday is scaring as heavy showers are predicted in Melbourne. Play suspension could spoil the highly anticipated Grand Slam.

Australian Open: Nadal, Djokovic, and Federer go through first round, rain plays spoil spot

33-year-old Rafael Nadal says he is surprised to be at the summit of the men's game given his long and varied history of injuries.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-nadal-and-federer-pledge-a250000-towards-relief-workers-in-charity-event-274432">Australian Open: Nadal, Federer pledge A$250,000 towards bushfire relief</a>

Enjoying a rare period of full fitness,&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;is bidding for his second title in his 15th appearance at Melbourne Park, as well as the added carrot of matching Roger Federer's all-time record of 20 Grand Slam titles.

In the 11 years since his 2009 triumph in Melbourne,&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;has battled back from a litany of serious injuries, defying predictions that his taxing, all-action game might cut his career short.

He now has a chance to hold three out of the four Grand Slam titles after winning the French and U.S. Opens last year.

"Well, I can't say I have been <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-pulls-out-of-laver-cup-with-hand-injury-251206">lucky with injuries</a>, because I have not," he told reporters at Melbourne Park on Saturday.

"But there is no secret. There is only passion, about love for the game, and about being able to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-federer-and-williams-lead-way-to-raise-funds-for-relief-workers-in-australia-273899">stay positive</a> in the tough moments.

"It's true that I went through some tough situations during all my career. But I was able to always, with probably the positive attitude and with the right people around, to find a way to keep going.

"(It's) something that is difficult to imagine for me because of my style of game, as a lot of people said, my career should be little bit shorter.

"But here we are. (I'm) happy for that. Even for me is a big surprise to be where I am at my age."

<img alt="Rafael Nadal surprised at maintaining his winning streak despite severe injuries" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="249022e6-7241-4cad-82ef-c34348f55e70" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202020-01-18T162327.509.jpg" /> 
[ Nadal attends a news conference ( Courtesy: Reuters) ]

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/alexander-zverev-diego-schwartzman-dominate-day-eight-at-us-open-2019-247354">Nadal, the only player</a> to claim the world number one spot in three decades, plays unseeded Bolivian Hugo Dellien in the first round on Tuesday and has a reasonably kind draw.

There is a potential fourth round match-up against 16th seed Karen Khachanov or local firebrand Nick Kyrgios, who has won three of his seven Tour matches against the Spaniard.

The pair have never been friends, with&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;accusing him of "lacking respect for the public, the opponent and himself" after being beaten by the Australian at the Mexican Open last year.

Kyrgios in turn labelled&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;"super salty" and a bad loser. Nadal&nbsp;shrugged when asked about Kyrgios's chances at his home Grand Slam.

"Everybody knows who is Kyrgios. Everybody knows how big is his talent, how good he is when he wants to play at his best, when he's able to play at his best.

"His chances are always there."

33-year-old Rafael Nadal says he is surprised to be at the summit of the men's game given his long and varied history of injuries. Also Read: Australian Open: Nadal, Federer pledge A$250,000 towards bushfire relief Enjoying a rare period of full fitness, Nadal is bidding for his second title in his 15th appearance at Melbourne Park, as well as the added carrot of matching Roger Federer's all-time record of 20 Grand Slam titles.

33-year-old Rafael Nadal says he is surprised to be at the summit of the men's game given his long and varied history of injuries. Also Read: Australian Open: Nadal, Federer pledge A$250,000 towards bushfire relief Enjoying a rare period of full fitness, Nadal is bidding for his second title in his 15th appearance at Melbourne Park, as well as the added carrot of matching Roger Federer's all-time record of 20 Grand Slam titles. In the 11 years since his 2009 triumph in Melbourne, Nadal has battled back from a litany of serious injuries, defying predictions that his taxing, all-action game might cut his career short. He now has a chance to hold three out of the four Grand Slam titles after winning the French and U.S. Opens last year. "Well, I can't say I have been lucky with injuries, because I have not," he told reporters at Melbourne Park on Saturday. "But there is no secret. There is only passion, about love for the game, and about being able to stay positive in the tough moments. "It's true that I went through some tough situations during all my career. But I was able to always, with probably the positive attitude and with the right people around, to find a way to keep going. "(It's) something that is difficult to imagine for me because of my style of game, as a lot of people said, my career should be little bit shorter. "But here we are. (I'm) happy for that. Even for me is a big surprise to be where I am at my age." [ Nadal attends a news conference ( Courtesy: Reuters) ] Nadal, the only player to claim the world number one spot in three decades, plays unseeded Bolivian Hugo Dellien in the first round on Tuesday and has a reasonably kind draw. There is a potential fourth round match-up against 16th seed Karen Khachanov or local firebrand Nick Kyrgios, who has won three of his seven Tour matches against the Spaniard. The pair have never been friends, with Nadal accusing him of "lacking respect for the public, the opponent and himself" after being beaten by the Australian at the Mexican Open last year. Kyrgios in turn labelled Nadal "super salty" and a bad loser. Nadal shrugged when asked about Kyrgios's chances at his home Grand Slam. "Everybody knows who is Kyrgios. Everybody knows how big is his talent, how good he is when he wants to play at his best, when he's able to play at his best. "His chances are always there."

Rafael Nadal surprised to still be on top of the game

The list of nominees of the Sportsman of the Year is out. Lewis Hamilton, Eliud Kipchoge, Marc Marquez, Lionel Messi, Rafael Nadal, and Tiger woods are in the contentions.

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It's time to announce the nominees for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Laureus20?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Laureus20</a> World Sports Awards 🙌 
 
Introducing the six contenders for Sportsman of the Year... 
 
May the best man win 👊 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SportUnitesUs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SportUnitesUs</a> <a href="https://t.co/2X8C7yNFM9">pic.twitter.com/2X8C7yNFM9</a>
— Laureus (@LaureusSport) <a href="https://twitter.com/LaureusSport/status/1217432393176489986?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Each individual has had the successful year of 2019, they won huge in their respective sports.

Novak Djokovic won the 'Sportsman of the Year' award last year.&nbsp;

Lewis Hamilton is the current Formula 1 Champion, the Britisher has won a total of six F1 championships. His team Mercedes is nominated for the Team of the Year category.&nbsp;

Marc Marquez has won MotoGP in 2019, making it the sixth time for Spaniard.&nbsp;

Eliud Kipchoge, an athlete was first to run a marathon in under two hours.

Tiger Woods made a major comeback after he won the Masters Tournament after 14 years.&nbsp;

Rafael Nadal, is currently the World number 1 in tennis rankings, with the season's record of 3-1, Spaniard managed to earn a spot in the list.

Lionel Messi won his sixth Ballon D'or in December last year after an amazing goal-scoring run for his club Barcelona. The Argentine is one of the favourites to win this award.

F1 team Mercedes, Liverpool Football Club, South Africa’s rugby team, Spain’s men’s basketball team, basketball’s Toronto Raptors, and the United States Women’s Football Team are all competing for the Team of the Year award.&nbsp;

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What a year 2019 was for team sports ⚽️🏎🏉🏀 
 
Announcing the following six nominees who have been recognised for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Laureus20?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Laureus20</a> Team of the Year category 👀 
 
See you in Berlin! 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SportUnitesUs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SportUnitesUs</a> <a href="https://t.co/JmHhRJBnjV">pic.twitter.com/JmHhRJBnjV</a>
— Laureus (@LaureusSport) <a href="https://twitter.com/LaureusSport/status/1217432413619531777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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In the 'World Sportswoman of the Year' category, Naomi Osaka, the first Asian tennis player to get to number 1 in world rankings is competing against Golden Ball and Golden boot winner Megan Rapinoe gymnastic great Simone Biles, American sprinters Allyson Felix and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce along with US skiing legend Mikaela.

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🏆 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Laureus20?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Laureus20</a> Sportswoman of the Year 🏆 
 
These six ladies all had an incredible 2019 and continue to inspire people around the world... 
 
Good luck to them all 🙌 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SportUnitesUs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SportUnitesUs</a> <a href="https://t.co/HugemrYFhz">pic.twitter.com/HugemrYFhz</a>
— Laureus (@LaureusSport) <a href="https://twitter.com/LaureusSport/status/1217432401732755456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The awards ceremony is set to be held in Berlin on February 17. 
&nbsp;

The list of nominees of the Sportsman of the Year is out. Lewis Hamilton, Eliud Kipchoge, Marc Marquez, Lionel Messi, Rafael Nadal, and Tiger woods are in the contentions.

The list of nominees of the Sportsman of the Year is out. Lewis Hamilton, Eliud Kipchoge, Marc Marquez, Lionel Messi, Rafael Nadal, and Tiger woods are in the contentions. It's time to announce the nominees for the #Laureus20 World Sports Awards 🙌 Introducing the six contenders for Sportsman of the Year... May the best man win 👊 #SportUnitesUs pic.twitter.com/2X8C7yNFM9 — Laureus (@LaureusSport) January 15, 2020 × Each individual has had the successful year of 2019, they won huge in their respective sports. Novak Djokovic won the 'Sportsman of the Year' award last year. Lewis Hamilton is the current Formula 1 Champion, the Britisher has won a total of six F1 championships. His team Mercedes is nominated for the Team of the Year category. Marc Marquez has won MotoGP in 2019, making it the sixth time for Spaniard. Eliud Kipchoge, an athlete was first to run a marathon in under two hours. Tiger Woods made a major comeback after he won the Masters Tournament after 14 years. Rafael Nadal, is currently the World number 1 in tennis rankings, with the season's record of 3-1, Spaniard managed to earn a spot in the list. Lionel Messi won his sixth Ballon D'or in December last year after an amazing goal-scoring run for his club Barcelona. The Argentine is one of the favourites to win this award. F1 team Mercedes, Liverpool Football Club, South Africa’s rugby team, Spain’s men’s basketball team, basketball’s Toronto Raptors, and the United States Women’s Football Team are all competing for the Team of the Year award. What a year 2019 was for team sports ⚽️🏎🏉🏀 Announcing the following six nominees who have been recognised for the #Laureus20 Team of the Year category 👀 See you in Berlin! #SportUnitesUs pic.twitter.com/JmHhRJBnjV — Laureus (@LaureusSport) January 15, 2020 × In the 'World Sportswoman of the Year' category, Naomi Osaka, the first Asian tennis player to get to number 1 in world rankings is competing against Golden Ball and Golden boot winner Megan Rapinoe gymnastic great Simone Biles, American sprinters Allyson Felix and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce along with US skiing legend Mikaela. 🏆 #Laureus20 Sportswoman of the Year 🏆 These six ladies all had an incredible 2019 and continue to inspire people around the world... Good luck to them all 🙌 #SportUnitesUs pic.twitter.com/HugemrYFhz — Laureus (@LaureusSport) January 15, 2020 × The awards ceremony is set to be held in Berlin on February 17.

Laureus Awards 2020: Nominees for best Sportsperson announced

Ahead of the Australian Open in Melbourne, world no-1 Rafael Nadal and world no-3 Roger Federer pledged A$250,000 towards the Australian bushfire relief efforts. &nbsp;

Also see-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-federer-and-williams-lead-way-to-raise-funds-for-relief-workers-in-australia-273899">Tennis: Federer, Williams lead way to raise funds for workers in Australia bushfires</a>

Nadal announced about the donations in&nbsp;the "Rally for Relief" event in Melbourne Park's Rod Laver Arena.&nbsp;

Also see-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-open-hazardous-air-condition-causes-troubles-to-players-in-the-qualifiers-274250">Australian Open: Hazardous air condition delays matches, restarts amid haze</a>

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"Talking with Roger, we decided to give $250,000 together." 👏 👏 👏 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rally4Relief?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rally4Relief</a> 
 
To contribute: <a href="https://t.co/9RPgZ7cBoB">https://t.co/9RPgZ7cBoB</a> <a href="https://t.co/ocdiw8D0if">pic.twitter.com/ocdiw8D0if</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1217378578188447745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Twenty-three times Serena Williams and Australian Open&nbsp;defending champion Novak Djokovic also took part in the event.

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-bushfire-shane-warnes-baggy-green-cap-sold-for-over-a1-million-273347">Australian bushfire: Shane Warne's baggy green cap sold for over A$1 million; beats Dhoni, Bradman</a>

Rafa Nadal, after the exhibition match, said: "Hopefully that will keep inspiring the people to support this terrible disaster that we’re going through and helps to recover all the things that we need,”.

Australia is experiencing one of its worst bushfire seasons in decades, with fires killing more than 28 people and destroying at least 2000 homes. Wildlife in&nbsp;Australia in the worst hit, nearly half a billion animals have perished in the bushfires.

&nbsp;

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Australian Open's qualifiers were disrupted for the second successive day because of the thick grey hazy in the morning due to the smoke of the bushfire. This was followed by smog-clearing rain.

The ATP &nbsp;pledged A$750,000 to the WWF Australian Wildlife and Nature Recovery Fund as part of the bushfire relief efforts the as announced by Novak Djokovic and Nadal.

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Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/atptour?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@atptour</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DjokerNole</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> for your generous donation of $750,000 to World Wildlife Fund 🙏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATPCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ATPCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/roB1yMZy94">pic.twitter.com/roB1yMZy94</a>
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/TennisTV/status/1216367121443311617?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Serena Williams had pledged to donate all of her winning amounts after she won the Auckland Open. She won $43,000

The 24-year-old Australian Nick Kyrgios has pledged A$200 for every ace he hits this month. Nick Kyrgios hit the most aces (69) in the ATP cup.&nbsp;

The Australian Open is the first Grand Slam of the year. The tournament will be played between January 20 to February 2.

Ahead of the Australian Open in Melbourne, world no-1 Rafael Nadal and world no-3 Roger Federer pledged A$250,000 towards the Australian bushfire relief efforts.

Ahead of the Australian Open in Melbourne, world no-1 Rafael Nadal and world no-3 Roger Federer pledged A$250,000 towards the Australian bushfire relief efforts. Also see- Tennis: Federer, Williams lead way to raise funds for workers in Australia bushfires Nadal announced about the donations in the "Rally for Relief" event in Melbourne Park's Rod Laver Arena. Also see- Australian Open: Hazardous air condition delays matches, restarts amid haze "Talking with Roger, we decided to give $250,000 together." 👏 👏 👏 👏#Rally4Relief To contribute: https://t.co/9RPgZ7cBoB pic.twitter.com/ocdiw8D0if — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 15, 2020 × Twenty-three times Serena Williams and Australian Open defending champion Novak Djokovic also took part in the event. Also read- Australian bushfire: Shane Warne's baggy green cap sold for over A$1 million; beats Dhoni, Bradman Rafa Nadal, after the exhibition match, said: "Hopefully that will keep inspiring the people to support this terrible disaster that we’re going through and helps to recover all the things that we need,”. Australia is experiencing one of its worst bushfire seasons in decades, with fires killing more than 28 people and destroying at least 2000 homes. Wildlife in Australia in the worst hit, nearly half a billion animals have perished in the bushfires. × Australian Open's qualifiers were disrupted for the second successive day because of the thick grey hazy in the morning due to the smoke of the bushfire. This was followed by smog-clearing rain. The ATP pledged A$750,000 to the WWF Australian Wildlife and Nature Recovery Fund as part of the bushfire relief efforts the as announced by Novak Djokovic and Nadal. Thank you @atptour, @DjokerNole and @RafaelNadal for your generous donation of $750,000 to World Wildlife Fund 🙏#ATPCup pic.twitter.com/roB1yMZy94 — Tennis TV (@TennisTV) January 12, 2020 × Serena Williams had pledged to donate all of her winning amounts after she won the Auckland Open. She won $43,000 The 24-year-old Australian Nick Kyrgios has pledged A$200 for every ace he hits this month. Nick Kyrgios hit the most aces (69) in the ATP cup. The Australian Open is the first Grand Slam of the year. The tournament will be played between January 20 to February 2.

Australian Open: Nadal, Federer pledge A$250,000 towards bushfire relief

Forecasts of heavy rain offered hope Tuesday in the months-long battle to contain Australia's unprecedented bushfires, but smoke lifted pollution levels in the nation's second-biggest city to among the worst in the world.

Cool-weather over recent days has already given some respite for exhausted firefighters spread out across vast swathes of the country, with some of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/firefighters-gain-on-california-blaze-last-of-missing-found-alive-156355">biggest blazes</a> now brought under control.

<img alt="Bushfire" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ce5ec23a-6c3d-4397-8402-e04cb3e9b83d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29_31.jpg" />

Optimism was further boosted on Tuesday with heavy rain forecast for some of the hotspots in the most populated eastern states of New South Wales and Victoria.

"It’s some pretty good news," New South Wales Rural Fire Service Commissioner <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-bushfires-cooler-temperature-and-rainfall-ease-conditions-ahead-of-rough-night-273517">Shane Fitzsimmons</a> said.

"We’ve been talking about it for months now, that January might see the first fall of decent rain, and that looks like what's coming along over the next few days."&nbsp;

However, dozens of fires remained out of control and, with many weeks of hot weather still expected throughout Australia's summer, there was no suggestion the crisis would end soon.

Toxic smoke from the blazes also blew overnight into the Victorian capital of Melbourne, which is due to stage the Australian Open tennis tournament next week.

Pollution in Melbourne, which is normally ranked as among the world's most liveable cities, was rated "hazardous", with health authorities warning people to stay indoors.

Practice sessions for world number one <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-once-again-claims-no-1-spot-in-rankings-novak-djokovic-slips-259888">Rafael Nadal</a> and some of the other big names in tennis were suspended on Tuesday.

Qualifying rounds for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sharapova-to-return-next-month-as-brisbane-wildcard-271149">Australian Open</a> were also delayed for a couple of hours, and the organisers' decision to resume play late on Tuesday morning caused confusion and concern for some players.

Mandy Minella, world number 140 from Luxembourg, voiced her opposition on Twitter.

"Shocked to see that qualifying matches have started @Australian Open, What about the health of all the people that have to work out there, especially the ball kids?" she tweeted.

Still, the hazy conditions were not expected to last all week in Melbourne, with a change in wind direction and the forecast wet weather over the coming days set to clear the air.

The bushfires have killed at least 27 people, destroyed more than 2,000 homes and burnt 10 million hectares (100,000 square kilometers) of land an area larger than South Korea or Portugal.

<img alt="Bushfire" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="70794b3e-7c3e-4c65-810a-bbdb1763fe21" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_41.jpg" />

Australia endures bushfires every summer.

However, climate change and a prolonged drought have contributed to the current crisis, with the blazes starting much earlier than normal and lasting for far longer.

Australia experienced its driest and hottest year on record in 2019, with its highest average maximum temperature of 41.9 degrees Celsius (107.4 degrees Fahrenheit) recorded in mid-December.

The fires have prompted an outpouring of donations from around the world to help communities and devastated animal populations.

Environmental groups estimate one billion <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-tennis-stars-and-other-animals-29855">animals</a> have been killed, many of them unique to Australia.

The country's environment minister Sussan Ley has warned that in some areas, koalas may have to be reclassified as endangered.

Forecasts of heavy rain offered hope Tuesday in the months-long battle to contain Australia's unprecedented bushfires, but smoke lifted pollution levels in the nation's second-biggest city to among the worst in the world.

Forecasts of heavy rain offered hope Tuesday in the months-long battle to contain Australia's unprecedented bushfires, but smoke lifted pollution levels in the nation's second-biggest city to among the worst in the world. Cool-weather over recent days has already given some respite for exhausted firefighters spread out across vast swathes of the country, with some of the biggest blazes now brought under control. Optimism was further boosted on Tuesday with heavy rain forecast for some of the hotspots in the most populated eastern states of New South Wales and Victoria. "It’s some pretty good news," New South Wales Rural Fire Service Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said. "We’ve been talking about it for months now, that January might see the first fall of decent rain, and that looks like what's coming along over the next few days." However, dozens of fires remained out of control and, with many weeks of hot weather still expected throughout Australia's summer, there was no suggestion the crisis would end soon. Toxic smoke from the blazes also blew overnight into the Victorian capital of Melbourne, which is due to stage the Australian Open tennis tournament next week. Pollution in Melbourne, which is normally ranked as among the world's most liveable cities, was rated "hazardous", with health authorities warning people to stay indoors. Practice sessions for world number one Rafael Nadal and some of the other big names in tennis were suspended on Tuesday. Qualifying rounds for the Australian Open were also delayed for a couple of hours, and the organisers' decision to resume play late on Tuesday morning caused confusion and concern for some players. Mandy Minella, world number 140 from Luxembourg, voiced her opposition on Twitter. "Shocked to see that qualifying matches have started @Australian Open, What about the health of all the people that have to work out there, especially the ball kids?" she tweeted. Still, the hazy conditions were not expected to last all week in Melbourne, with a change in wind direction and the forecast wet weather over the coming days set to clear the air. The bushfires have killed at least 27 people, destroyed more than 2,000 homes and burnt 10 million hectares (100,000 square kilometers) of land an area larger than South Korea or Portugal. Australia endures bushfires every summer. However, climate change and a prolonged drought have contributed to the current crisis, with the blazes starting much earlier than normal and lasting for far longer. Australia experienced its driest and hottest year on record in 2019, with its highest average maximum temperature of 41.9 degrees Celsius (107.4 degrees Fahrenheit) recorded in mid-December. The fires have prompted an outpouring of donations from around the world to help communities and devastated animal populations. Environmental groups estimate one billion animals have been killed, many of them unique to Australia. The country's environment minister Sussan Ley has warned that in some areas, koalas may have to be reclassified as endangered.

Rain offers hope in Australian bushfire fight

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../djokovic-sweeps-past-nadal-in-atp-cup-final- 273816">Djokovic</a>'s Serbia came from behind to defeat Nadal's Spain to lift the prestigious ATP cup in the Rosewell Arena, Sydney.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-novak-djokovic-concerned-about-smoke-at-australian-open-as-bushfires-continue-to-blaze-272187">ATP: Novak Djokovic concerned about smoke at Australian Open as bushfires continue to blaze</a>

Roberto Bautista handed a straight-set defeat to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../nadals-spain-to-meet-djokovics-serbia-in-atp- cup-final-273650">Dusan Lajovic</a> (7-5, 6-1) in the first match of the tie. Spain lead by 1-0 over Serbia.

Scores tied after Novak Djokovic returned the favour by defeating Rafael Nadal (6-2, 7-6) in the most anticipated match of the evening. &nbsp;

As a tie-breaker, the doubles team clashed with each other. Serbia's Djokovic and Victor Troicki faced Spain's Feliciano Lopez and Pablo Carreno-Busta. Team Serbia beat Team Spain in straight sets 6-3, 6-4 to win the cup.&nbsp;

The winning team got $15,000,000 as a cash prize.

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Welcome to the HISTORY books! 
 
Hoist that 🏆 high, 🇷🇸 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamSerbia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamSerbia</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATPCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ATPCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/f81tbbCQdL">pic.twitter.com/f81tbbCQdL</a>
— ATPCup (@ATPCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/ATPCup/status/1216368145096679425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Serbia defeated Russia and Spain defeated Australia 3-0 to reach the finals.&nbsp;

Spain neared a knockout in the Quarters against Belgium when World number 7 David Goffin had defeated World number 1. But they avoided an upset when they won the tie-breaker doubles match.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-belguims-david-goffin-keeps-hope-alive-after-shocker-against-spains-rafael-nadal-273449">ATP: Belguim's David Goffin keeps hope alive after shocker against Spain's Rafael Nadal</a>

24 countries took part in this competition that lasted 10 days. Fans across the three cities of Brisbane, Perth, and Sydney were entertained.&nbsp;

ATP had promised A$100 per ace in the tournament and a total of 1,322 aces were served in the cup. so a total of A$132,200 were donated to Tennis Australia’s Aces for Bushfire Relief initiative. Nick Kyrgios served most number (69) of aces in tournament. &nbsp;

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Drumroll, please! 🥁 
 
After 32 aces were hit on Day 10, our grand total for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATPCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ATPCup</a> is 1,322. This means $132,200 was raised for&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/RedCrossAU?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@redcrossau</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Aces4BushfireRelief?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Aces4BushfireRelief</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATPCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ATPCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/FMivFRWBUg">pic.twitter.com/FMivFRWBUg</a>
— ATPCup (@ATPCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/ATPCup/status/1216434671212539910?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ATP players donated A$725,000 to WWF’s Australian Wildlife and Nature Recovery Fund.

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A big <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATPCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ATPCup</a> announcement! ❤️<a href="https://twitter.com/atptour?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@atptour</a> players have made a $725,000 donation to <a href="https://twitter.com/WWF_Australia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WWF_Australia</a> and Nature Recovery Fund as part of the bushfire relief efforts. <a href="https://t.co/dkJGYLxyU6">pic.twitter.com/dkJGYLxyU6</a>
— ATPCup (@ATPCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/ATPCup/status/1216372120403529728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Djokovic's Serbia came from behind to defeat Nadal's Spain to lift the prestigious ATP cup in the Rosewell Arena, Sydney. Also read: ATP: Novak Djokovic concerned about smoke at Australian Open as bushfires continue to blaze Roberto Bautista handed a straight-set defeat to Dusan Lajovic (7-5, 6-1) in the first match of the tie.

Djokovic's Serbia came from behind to defeat Nadal's Spain to lift the prestigious ATP cup in the Rosewell Arena, Sydney. Also read: ATP: Novak Djokovic concerned about smoke at Australian Open as bushfires continue to blaze Roberto Bautista handed a straight-set defeat to Dusan Lajovic (7-5, 6-1) in the first match of the tie. Spain lead by 1-0 over Serbia. Scores tied after Novak Djokovic returned the favour by defeating Rafael Nadal (6-2, 7-6) in the most anticipated match of the evening. As a tie-breaker, the doubles team clashed with each other. Serbia's Djokovic and Victor Troicki faced Spain's Feliciano Lopez and Pablo Carreno-Busta. Team Serbia beat Team Spain in straight sets 6-3, 6-4 to win the cup. The winning team got $15,000,000 as a cash prize. Welcome to the HISTORY books! Hoist that 🏆 high, 🇷🇸 #TeamSerbia#ATPCup pic.twitter.com/f81tbbCQdL — ATPCup (@ATPCup) January 12, 2020 × Serbia defeated Russia and Spain defeated Australia 3-0 to reach the finals. Spain neared a knockout in the Quarters against Belgium when World number 7 David Goffin had defeated World number 1. But they avoided an upset when they won the tie-breaker doubles match. Also read: ATP: Belguim's David Goffin keeps hope alive after shocker against Spain's Rafael Nadal 24 countries took part in this competition that lasted 10 days. Fans across the three cities of Brisbane, Perth, and Sydney were entertained. ATP had promised A$100 per ace in the tournament and a total of 1,322 aces were served in the cup. so a total of A$132,200 were donated to Tennis Australia’s Aces for Bushfire Relief initiative. Nick Kyrgios served most number (69) of aces in tournament. Drumroll, please! 🥁 After 32 aces were hit on Day 10, our grand total for the #ATPCup is 1,322. This means $132,200 was raised for @redcrossau.#Aces4BushfireRelief | #ATPCup pic.twitter.com/FMivFRWBUg — ATPCup (@ATPCup) January 12, 2020 × ATP players donated A$725,000 to WWF’s Australian Wildlife and Nature Recovery Fund. A big #ATPCup announcement! ❤️@atptour players have made a $725,000 donation to @WWF_Australia and Nature Recovery Fund as part of the bushfire relief efforts. pic.twitter.com/dkJGYLxyU6 — ATPCup (@ATPCup) January 12, 2020 ×

ATP: Djokovic's Serbia beats Nadal's Spain to lift the cup

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../atp-belguims-david-goffin-keeps-hope-alive- after-shocker-against-spains-rafael-nadal-273449">Rafael Nadal</a> and Novak Djokovic will face each other in the final of the inaugural ATP Cup after winning epic three-set matches Saturday to steer Spain and Serbia into the decider.

World number one Nadal ground down pumped-up Australian Alex de Minaur to guide the Davis Cup champions through their semi-final while Djokovic battled past Russia's Daniil Medvedev.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-novak-djokovic-concerned-about-smoke-at-australian-open-as-bushfires-continue-to-blaze-272187">ATP: Novak Djokovic concerned about smoke at Australian Open as bushfires continue to blaze</a>

Under the format of the innovative team event in Sydney, the top-ranked singles players from each country play each other, ensuring the two legends clash for a 55th time since their first showdown in 2006.

World number two <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../djokovic-and-nadal-rally-for-merger-of-atp-cup -and-davis-cup-271915">Djokovic</a> leads the head-to-heads 28-26, including beating his arch-rival in the Australian Open final last year.

Nadal outlasted De Minaur 4-6, 7-5, 6-1 after unflappable teammate Roberto Bautista Agut tamed Nick Kyrgios 6-1, 6-4.

Djokovic had an equally tough time against impressive fifth-ranked Medvedev, coming through a top-draw contest 6-1, 5-7, 6-4 on the back of Dusan Lajovic beating Karen Khachanov 7-5, 7-6 (7/1).

"Alex was playing at a very high level and for me my energy was a little bit lower than usual. But it has been a very emotional evening and a pleasure playing here," said Nadal.

"We know it's going to be a super tough final (against Serbia)," he added. "Novak likes a lot to play here, he's had a lot of great results. So let's see. We have a good team too."

De Minaur had a furious start, breaking Nadal in the opening game of the match and then keeping the pressure on, restricting the Spaniard's trademark forehand to take the first set in 46 minutes.

Full of energy, his serve was on fire and he was winning the baseline rallies, but Nadal weathered the onslaught and finally won a break point, converting to take the second set.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../australia-oust-britain-in-knife-edge-atp-cup- quarter-final-273204">De Minaur</a> was deflated and the fight went out of him as the 19-time Grand Slam showed him who was boss, racing through the deciding set.

Unassuming world number 10 Bautista Agut was in control and all over the groundstrokes of temperamental Kyrgios, who looked lost as he crashed 6-1 in the first set.

The Australian regained some lustre in the second set. But he was broken in the fifth game, mangling his racquet in frustration, and despite saving two match points with booming aces was outplayed.

"My game plan was to put him under pressure to play every point, to make him work. That's what I tried and it went well," said Bautista Agut.

- Exceptional - 
Sixteen-time Grand Slam winner Djokovic, who is targeting an eighth Australian Open title this month, had looked on track for a comfortable win against Medvedev after sailing through the opening set and breaking in the first game of the second.

But the dogged Russian, who won their last two encounters, roared back.

He broke in the next game and then again for 3-1, with Djokovic smashing his racquet as Medvedev took the set to level the match.

A third set of long, high-quality rallies went with serve until Djokovic got the crucial edge in the fifth game, converting a volley to go 3-2 in front and Medvedev had no answer.

"It was an exceptional match. Lots of rallies and very exhausting. Daniil Medvedev is one of the best players in the world and he showed today why," said Djokovic.

"He's difficult to break from the baseline, he's tall and has a good serve. This was the most difficult challenge I have had so far this year."

Lajovic, who won his first ATP title last year at Umag, took a 2-0 record into his showdown with world number 17 Khachanov and produced a performance that belied his ranking of 34, displaying composure and a fine array of shots.

"It was definitely one of the toughest matches for me in my career, concerning the situation, the tension and the importance of the moment," he said. "But the crowd carried me." &nbsp; &nbsp;

Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic will face each other in the final of the inaugural ATP Cup after winning epic three-set matches Saturday to steer Spain and Serbia into the decider.

Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic will face each other in the final of the inaugural ATP Cup after winning epic three-set matches Saturday to steer Spain and Serbia into the decider. World number one Nadal ground down pumped-up Australian Alex de Minaur to guide the Davis Cup champions through their semi-final while Djokovic battled past Russia's Daniil Medvedev. Also read: ATP: Novak Djokovic concerned about smoke at Australian Open as bushfires continue to blaze Under the format of the innovative team event in Sydney, the top-ranked singles players from each country play each other, ensuring the two legends clash for a 55th time since their first showdown in 2006. World number two Djokovic leads the head-to-heads 28-26, including beating his arch-rival in the Australian Open final last year. Nadal outlasted De Minaur 4-6, 7-5, 6-1 after unflappable teammate Roberto Bautista Agut tamed Nick Kyrgios 6-1, 6-4. Djokovic had an equally tough time against impressive fifth-ranked Medvedev, coming through a top-draw contest 6-1, 5-7, 6-4 on the back of Dusan Lajovic beating Karen Khachanov 7-5, 7-6 (7/1). "Alex was playing at a very high level and for me my energy was a little bit lower than usual. But it has been a very emotional evening and a pleasure playing here," said Nadal. "We know it's going to be a super tough final (against Serbia)," he added. "Novak likes a lot to play here, he's had a lot of great results. So let's see. We have a good team too." De Minaur had a furious start, breaking Nadal in the opening game of the match and then keeping the pressure on, restricting the Spaniard's trademark forehand to take the first set in 46 minutes. Full of energy, his serve was on fire and he was winning the baseline rallies, but Nadal weathered the onslaught and finally won a break point, converting to take the second set. De Minaur was deflated and the fight went out of him as the 19-time Grand Slam showed him who was boss, racing through the deciding set. Unassuming world number 10 Bautista Agut was in control and all over the groundstrokes of temperamental Kyrgios, who looked lost as he crashed 6-1 in the first set. The Australian regained some lustre in the second set. But he was broken in the fifth game, mangling his racquet in frustration, and despite saving two match points with booming aces was outplayed. "My game plan was to put him under pressure to play every point, to make him work. That's what I tried and it went well," said Bautista Agut. - Exceptional - Sixteen-time Grand Slam winner Djokovic, who is targeting an eighth Australian Open title this month, had looked on track for a comfortable win against Medvedev after sailing through the opening set and breaking in the first game of the second. But the dogged Russian, who won their last two encounters, roared back. He broke in the next game and then again for 3-1, with Djokovic smashing his racquet as Medvedev took the set to level the match. A third set of long, high-quality rallies went with serve until Djokovic got the crucial edge in the fifth game, converting a volley to go 3-2 in front and Medvedev had no answer. "It was an exceptional match. Lots of rallies and very exhausting. Daniil Medvedev is one of the best players in the world and he showed today why," said Djokovic. "He's difficult to break from the baseline, he's tall and has a good serve. This was the most difficult challenge I have had so far this year." Lajovic, who won his first ATP title last year at Umag, took a 2-0 record into his showdown with world number 17 Khachanov and produced a performance that belied his ranking of 34, displaying composure and a fine array of shots. "It was definitely one of the toughest matches for me in my career, concerning the situation, the tension and the importance of the moment," he said. "But the crowd carried me."

Nadal's Spain to meet Djokovic's Serbia in ATP Cup final

Belgium needed a desperate point to keep the country's hope alive after losing a point to Roberto Bautista Agut who beat Kimmer Coppejans in straight sets (6-1, 6-4), helped Spain lead 1-0.&nbsp;

Spain was looking forward to book a spot in the Semi-Finals with World No 1 (Rafael Nadal) going against World No 7 (David Goffin).

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-oust-britain-in-knife-edge-atp-cup-quarter-final-273204">Australia oust Britain in knife-edge ATP Cup quarter-final</a>

But Goffin had some other plans, he put up one of the most ruthless performances of his career to down the Spaniard 6-4 7-6 (7-3), picking up a point for Belgium and tieing it (1-1).

The tied score keeps Belgium's hopes alive for a semi-final berth for themselves.&nbsp;

David Goffin is Belgium's highest-ranked Tennis player, the underdog shocked the world with a major upset.

ATP's official Twitter handle congratulated David Goffin for this amazing feat.

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What a performance 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/David__Goffin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@David__Goffin</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATPCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ATPCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/8vm0KQ68GS">pic.twitter.com/8vm0KQ68GS</a>
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Now, the final doubles match will act as the Tie-breaker between Spain and Belgium. The Double's Match will take place between Belgium's Sander Gille, Joran Vliegen and Spain's Rafael Nadal, Pablo Carreno Gusta.

Earlier in the day, Serbia beat Canada 3-0 and made it to semi-finals.

Belgium needed a desperate point to keep the country's hope alive after losing a point to Roberto Bautista Agut who beat Kimmer Coppejans in straight sets (6-1, 6-4), helped Spain lead 1-0.

Belgium needed a desperate point to keep the country's hope alive after losing a point to Roberto Bautista Agut who beat Kimmer Coppejans in straight sets (6-1, 6-4), helped Spain lead 1-0. Spain was looking forward to book a spot in the Semi-Finals with World No 1 (Rafael Nadal) going against World No 7 (David Goffin). Also Read: Australia oust Britain in knife-edge ATP Cup quarter-final But Goffin had some other plans, he put up one of the most ruthless performances of his career to down the Spaniard 6-4 7-6 (7-3), picking up a point for Belgium and tieing it (1-1). The tied score keeps Belgium's hopes alive for a semi-final berth for themselves. David Goffin is Belgium's highest-ranked Tennis player, the underdog shocked the world with a major upset. ATP's official Twitter handle congratulated David Goffin for this amazing feat. What a performance 👏@David__Goffin | #ATPCup pic.twitter.com/8vm0KQ68GS — ATP Tour (@atptour) January 10, 2020 × Now, the final doubles match will act as the Tie-breaker between Spain and Belgium. The Double's Match will take place between Belgium's Sander Gille, Joran Vliegen and Spain's Rafael Nadal, Pablo Carreno Gusta. Earlier in the day, Serbia beat Canada 3-0 and made it to semi-finals.

ATP: Belguim's David Goffin keeps hope alive after shocker against Spain's Rafael Nadal

Untested Australia doubles pairing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-brushes-de-minaur-aside-to-claim-record-10th-basel-title-258408">Alex De Minaur</a> and Nick Kyrgios saved four match points before sealing a nail-biting win in the deciding match of their quarter-final clash with Great Britain at the inaugural&nbsp;ATP&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;team event on Thursday.

The Australian duo, better known for their singles play, defeated doubles specialists Jamie Murray and Joe Salisbury 3-6 6-3 18-16 to set up a semi-final against either <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-once-again-claims-no-1-spot-in-rankings-novak-djokovic-slips-259888">Rafael Nadal</a>-led Spain or <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-destroys-david-goffin-to-reach-semis-234792">David Goffin</a>'s Belgium.

In something resembling both a hug and a wrestle, De Minaur and Kyrgios fell to the ground in a celebratory embrace after edging the half-hour-long extended tiebreak, used in place of a deciding third set.

"That was the most stressful tie-breaker I've ever been involved in," Kyrgios said in an on-court interview after the match. "I'll definitely be having a couple of red wines tonight."

The pair were subbed in by team captain Lleyton Hewitt at the last moment after the teams split the two singles matches, a decision he attributed to Kyrgios' irresistible form.

While Kyrgios' on-court behaviour often raised hackles, few handle pressure moments as well as he did on Thursday. Facing a match point in the doubles tiebreak, he ripped a backhand winner off a serve down a narrow gap.

&nbsp;

Earlier, Kyrgios was too strong for London-based left-hander Cameron Norrie, winning 6-2 6-2, while Britain's Dan Evans then outlasted the top 20-ranked De Minaur 6-7(4) 6-4 7-6(2).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nick-kyrgios-beats-alexander-zverev-to-win-acapulco-title-200862">Kyrgios</a> said after his comfortable victory that he wasn't happy with his serving rhythm, although he did successfully use an underarm serve that appeared to confuse his British opponent, who was looking out for the tactic to be redeployed throughout the match.

"Anytime is a match where the opponent stops thinking about what he needs to do ...I think I have an edge straight away," said Kyrgios.

Krygios has previously employed the obscure but long-used tactic, notably against Nadal, the world's top player, who has criticised the Australian's on-court behaviour.

"If it gets in Rafa's head, then it's a success," Kyrgios said after Thursday's match.

De Minaur and Evans split the opening sets, setting up a third set contest that went to a tiebreak. Britain's top player used his all-court game to press his younger opponent and successfully employed serve-and-volley tactics at key moments.

De Minaur saved four match points before Evans eventually secured a morale-boosting victory weeks out from the Australian Open.

Hewitt then made the prescient call to put the 20-year-old immediately back out on court, partnered with Kyrgios, instead of doubles specialists.

"You have five minutes to decide after the second singles," said Hewitt, who added that Kyrgios' form was too good to leave him out of the deciding match.

&nbsp;

Untested Australia doubles pairing Alex De Minaur and Nick Kyrgios saved four match points before sealing a nail-biting win in the deciding match of their quarter-final clash with Great Britain at the inaugural ATP Cup team event on Thursday.

Untested Australia doubles pairing Alex De Minaur and Nick Kyrgios saved four match points before sealing a nail-biting win in the deciding match of their quarter-final clash with Great Britain at the inaugural ATP Cup team event on Thursday. The Australian duo, better known for their singles play, defeated doubles specialists Jamie Murray and Joe Salisbury 3-6 6-3 18-16 to set up a semi-final against either Rafael Nadal-led Spain or David Goffin's Belgium. In something resembling both a hug and a wrestle, De Minaur and Kyrgios fell to the ground in a celebratory embrace after edging the half-hour-long extended tiebreak, used in place of a deciding third set. "That was the most stressful tie-breaker I've ever been involved in," Kyrgios said in an on-court interview after the match. "I'll definitely be having a couple of red wines tonight." The pair were subbed in by team captain Lleyton Hewitt at the last moment after the teams split the two singles matches, a decision he attributed to Kyrgios' irresistible form. While Kyrgios' on-court behaviour often raised hackles, few handle pressure moments as well as he did on Thursday. Facing a match point in the doubles tiebreak, he ripped a backhand winner off a serve down a narrow gap. Earlier, Kyrgios was too strong for London-based left-hander Cameron Norrie, winning 6-2 6-2, while Britain's Dan Evans then outlasted the top 20-ranked De Minaur 6-7(4) 6-4 7-6(2). Kyrgios said after his comfortable victory that he wasn't happy with his serving rhythm, although he did successfully use an underarm serve that appeared to confuse his British opponent, who was looking out for the tactic to be redeployed throughout the match. "Anytime is a match where the opponent stops thinking about what he needs to do ...I think I have an edge straight away," said Kyrgios. Krygios has previously employed the obscure but long-used tactic, notably against Nadal, the world's top player, who has criticised the Australian's on-court behaviour. "If it gets in Rafa's head, then it's a success," Kyrgios said after Thursday's match. De Minaur and Evans split the opening sets, setting up a third set contest that went to a tiebreak. Britain's top player used his all-court game to press his younger opponent and successfully employed serve-and-volley tactics at key moments. De Minaur saved four match points before Evans eventually secured a morale-boosting victory weeks out from the Australian Open. Hewitt then made the prescient call to put the 20-year-old immediately back out on court, partnered with Kyrgios, instead of doubles specialists. "You have five minutes to decide after the second singles," said Hewitt, who added that Kyrgios' form was too good to leave him out of the deciding match.

Australia oust Britain in knife-edge ATP Cup quarter-final

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-novak-djokovic-concerned-about-smoke-at-australian-open-as-bushfires-continue-to-blaze-272187">Novak Djokovic</a> braved extreme humidity to beat tricky French opponent Gael Monfils 6-3 6-2 and later helped Serbia win the doubles as they progressed at the inaugural&nbsp;ATP&nbsp;Cup team event in Brisbane on Monday.

Spain's world number one <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-once-again-claims-no-1-spot-in-rankings-novak-djokovic-slips-259888">Rafa Nadal</a> was also in punishing mood ahead of this month's Australian Open as he dismantled Uruguay's Pablo Cuevas 6-2 6-1 in Perth to seal their tie.

Roberto Bautista Agut had given the Spaniards the lead after an equally one-sided 6-1 6-2 win over Franco Roncadelli in the $15 million&nbsp;ATP&nbsp;Cup, which features 24 nations competing in Perth, Brisbane and Sydney over 10 days.

Djokovic had a 15-0 head-to-head record against Monfils before Monday's clash and, after surviving an initial onslaught from his opponent, made sure the record remained blemish free.

The Serb saved nine break points while converting the three he had against Monfils, who finished 2019 in the top 10, to square the tie after the temperamental Benoit Paire had given France the lead by overcoming Dusan Lajovic 6-2 6-7(6) 6-4.

"It was definitely one of the most humid conditions I have ever had in my career," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-guides-serbia-into-davis-cup-quarter-finals-263723">Djokovic</a> said in a courtside interview. "I mean, tonight was brutal.

"Obviously playing Gael is never easy. You are coming into the court knowing that you are going to have a lot of exchanges, a lot of rallies. He is a great fighter and a great friend of mine, so I wish him all the best. Tough luck today."

Djokovic returned to court with Viktor Troicki to clinch the deciding doubles match against Nicolas Mahut and Edouard Roger-Vasselin 6-3 6-7(5) 10-3.

The 2-1 result ensured Serbia will finish as Group A winners and become the second team to qualify for the quarter-finals after Australia booked their place as Group F winners on Sunday.

Fit-again South African Kevin Anderson earlier won his first match since returning to competitive tennis with a 6-0 6-3 success against Chile's Cristian Garin.

Anderson, runner-up at the 2017 US&nbsp;Open and Wimbledon a year later, played only five tournaments last year due to injury before undergoing knee surgery in September.

The 33-year-old lost 7-6(5) 7-6(6) to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/djokovic-and-nadal-rally-for-merger-of-atp-cup-and-davis-cup-271915">Djokovic</a> in his return to action on Saturday, his first match since the third round of Wimbledon in July, but proved too good for Garin.

The former world number five did not face a break point against Garin, sealing the tie for South Africa.

Austria's world number four Dominic Thiem also bounced back from his season-opening loss against Croat Borna Coric by beating Diego Schwartzman 6-3 7-6(3) to help set up a 3-0 win over Argentina.

Croatia's Marin Cilic, the US&nbsp;Open champion in 2014, followed up Saturday's win against Austrian Dennis Novak with a 7-6(8) 6-4 win over 20-year-old Kacper Zuk of Poland.

Cilic converted only one of his 13 break points but the win in Sydney was enough to set up Croatia's second victory at the event after they defeated Austria 3-0.

Japan also completed their second win as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/andy-murray-leads-britain-to-opening-davis-cup-win-spain-reach-last-eight-263586">Yoshihito Nishioka</a> and Go Soeda emerged victorious in their singles matches to seal the tie against Georgia in Perth.

Novak Djokovic braved extreme humidity to beat tricky French opponent Gael Monfils 6-3 6-2 and later helped Serbia win the doubles as they progressed at the inaugural ATP Cup team event in Brisbane on Monday.

Novak Djokovic braved extreme humidity to beat tricky French opponent Gael Monfils 6-3 6-2 and later helped Serbia win the doubles as they progressed at the inaugural ATP Cup team event in Brisbane on Monday. Spain's world number one Rafa Nadal was also in punishing mood ahead of this month's Australian Open as he dismantled Uruguay's Pablo Cuevas 6-2 6-1 in Perth to seal their tie. Roberto Bautista Agut had given the Spaniards the lead after an equally one-sided 6-1 6-2 win over Franco Roncadelli in the $15 million ATP Cup, which features 24 nations competing in Perth, Brisbane and Sydney over 10 days. Djokovic had a 15-0 head-to-head record against Monfils before Monday's clash and, after surviving an initial onslaught from his opponent, made sure the record remained blemish free. The Serb saved nine break points while converting the three he had against Monfils, who finished 2019 in the top 10, to square the tie after the temperamental Benoit Paire had given France the lead by overcoming Dusan Lajovic 6-2 6-7(6) 6-4. "It was definitely one of the most humid conditions I have ever had in my career," Djokovic said in a courtside interview. "I mean, tonight was brutal. "Obviously playing Gael is never easy. You are coming into the court knowing that you are going to have a lot of exchanges, a lot of rallies. He is a great fighter and a great friend of mine, so I wish him all the best. Tough luck today." Djokovic returned to court with Viktor Troicki to clinch the deciding doubles match against Nicolas Mahut and Edouard Roger-Vasselin 6-3 6-7(5) 10-3. The 2-1 result ensured Serbia will finish as Group A winners and become the second team to qualify for the quarter-finals after Australia booked their place as Group F winners on Sunday. Fit-again South African Kevin Anderson earlier won his first match since returning to competitive tennis with a 6-0 6-3 success against Chile's Cristian Garin. Anderson, runner-up at the 2017 US Open and Wimbledon a year later, played only five tournaments last year due to injury before undergoing knee surgery in September. The 33-year-old lost 7-6(5) 7-6(6) to Djokovic in his return to action on Saturday, his first match since the third round of Wimbledon in July, but proved too good for Garin. The former world number five did not face a break point against Garin, sealing the tie for South Africa. Austria's world number four Dominic Thiem also bounced back from his season-opening loss against Croat Borna Coric by beating Diego Schwartzman 6-3 7-6(3) to help set up a 3-0 win over Argentina. Croatia's Marin Cilic, the US Open champion in 2014, followed up Saturday's win against Austrian Dennis Novak with a 7-6(8) 6-4 win over 20-year-old Kacper Zuk of Poland. Cilic converted only one of his 13 break points but the win in Sydney was enough to set up Croatia's second victory at the event after they defeated Austria 3-0. Japan also completed their second win as Yoshihito Nishioka and Go Soeda emerged victorious in their singles matches to seal the tie against Georgia in Perth.

Djokovic, Nadal march on with convincing wins at ATP Cup

Tennis' innovative new team championship kicks off the men's 2020 season on Friday, with Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic among those looking for a winning start ahead of the first Grand Slam of the year.

The ATP Cup will see 24 nations split into six groups across three Australian cities, with eight teams emerging from the round-robin to compete in a knockout phase until one country is left standing.

It is the sport's newest tournament and the third men's team event competing for the hearts and minds, and dollars, of fans, along with a revamped Davis Cup and the annual Laver Cup, which pits Europe against the World.

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🚨 BREAKING NEWS 🚨 
 
Introducing the 24 countries competing in the inaugural <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATPCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ATPCup</a>. <a href="https://t.co/8l1mB1QHmI">pic.twitter.com/8l1mB1QHmI</a>
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But it has already suffered setbacks, with major drawcard Roger Federer opting to give it a miss and Andy Murray and Kei Nishikori pulling out injured.

Despite this, world number two Djokovic said the move towards more team tennis was good for a sport best known for the individuality of its global superstars.

"More than 90 per cent of the time, we're playing as individuals and we don't have too many team events," said the Serbian great, who also heads the ATP player council.

"This is going to bring together a lot of nations and, for me, it will be a very nice and proud moment to represent my country. An event like this is truly going to make an impact."

Sydney hosts the finals, along with with group games, which are also held in Brisbane and Perth with US$15 million in prize money and up to 750 singles and 250 doubles ATP rankings points at stake.

Australian star Nick Kyrgios agrees with Djokovic, believing it will be "an awesome event".

"I know everyone on the Tour wants to be with their teammates. There's nothing better than playing for your country against the other best players in the world," he said.

Looking to the future

While Federer, Nishikori and Murray are missing, most of the world's top 30 men are playing. The championship, from January 3-12, will feature two ties each day in the three cities during the round-robin, comprising two singles matches then doubles.

Belgium kicks off the Sydney action against Moldova before Britain face Bulgaria. Kyrgios spearheads local hopes for Australia in Brisbane against the Alexander Zverev-led Germany while Greece take on Canada in the same city.

First up in Perth will be the United States against Norway followed by Russia and Italy.

Djokovic makes his tournament debut in Brisbane for Serbia on day two, as does Spanish world number one Nadal in Perth.

Under the format, the second-ranked singles players from each country face each other first, then the top-ranked men ahead of a potentially decisive double.

A country winning two of three matches will claim the tie.

As well as the players, some big-name former stars are captaining their countries, including Boris Becker (Germany), Marat Safin (Russia), Tim Henman (Britain), Lleyton Hewitt (Australia), and Thomas Muster (Austria).

Previously the men's season kicked off with players spread across various smaller-scale tournaments, and outgoing ATP chairman Chris Kermode said it made far more sense to have everyone under one umbrella.

"The ATP Cup fits perfectly with our strategy to innovate and look towards the future," he said.

"The first week of the season is when the players want to play and that's why the tournament has their strong support."

Group A (Brisbane) - Serbia, France, South Africa, Chile&nbsp; 
Group B (Perth) - Spain, Japan, Georgia, Uruguay&nbsp; 
Group C (Sydney) - Bulgaria, Belgium, Great Britain, Moldova&nbsp; 
Group D (Perth) - Russia, Italy, USA, Norway&nbsp; 
Group E (Sydney) - Austria, Croatia, Argentina, Poland&nbsp; 
Group F (Brisbane) - Germany, Greece, Canada, Australia.

Tennis' innovative new team championship kicks off the men's 2020 season on Friday, with Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic among those looking for a winning start ahead of the first Grand Slam of the year.

Tennis' innovative new team championship kicks off the men's 2020 season on Friday, with Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic among those looking for a winning start ahead of the first Grand Slam of the year. The ATP Cup will see 24 nations split into six groups across three Australian cities, with eight teams emerging from the round-robin to compete in a knockout phase until one country is left standing. It is the sport's newest tournament and the third men's team event competing for the hearts and minds, and dollars, of fans, along with a revamped Davis Cup and the annual Laver Cup, which pits Europe against the World. 🚨 BREAKING NEWS 🚨 Introducing the 24 countries competing in the inaugural #ATPCup. pic.twitter.com/8l1mB1QHmI — ATPCup (@ATPCup) November 13, 2019 × But it has already suffered setbacks, with major drawcard Roger Federer opting to give it a miss and Andy Murray and Kei Nishikori pulling out injured. Despite this, world number two Djokovic said the move towards more team tennis was good for a sport best known for the individuality of its global superstars. "More than 90 per cent of the time, we're playing as individuals and we don't have too many team events," said the Serbian great, who also heads the ATP player council. "This is going to bring together a lot of nations and, for me, it will be a very nice and proud moment to represent my country. An event like this is truly going to make an impact." Sydney hosts the finals, along with with group games, which are also held in Brisbane and Perth with US$15 million in prize money and up to 750 singles and 250 doubles ATP rankings points at stake. Australian star Nick Kyrgios agrees with Djokovic, believing it will be "an awesome event". "I know everyone on the Tour wants to be with their teammates. There's nothing better than playing for your country against the other best players in the world," he said. Looking to the future While Federer, Nishikori and Murray are missing, most of the world's top 30 men are playing. The championship, from January 3-12, will feature two ties each day in the three cities during the round-robin, comprising two singles matches then doubles. Belgium kicks off the Sydney action against Moldova before Britain face Bulgaria. Kyrgios spearheads local hopes for Australia in Brisbane against the Alexander Zverev-led Germany while Greece take on Canada in the same city. First up in Perth will be the United States against Norway followed by Russia and Italy. Djokovic makes his tournament debut in Brisbane for Serbia on day two, as does Spanish world number one Nadal in Perth. Under the format, the second-ranked singles players from each country face each other first, then the top-ranked men ahead of a potentially decisive double. A country winning two of three matches will claim the tie. As well as the players, some big-name former stars are captaining their countries, including Boris Becker (Germany), Marat Safin (Russia), Tim Henman (Britain), Lleyton Hewitt (Australia), and Thomas Muster (Austria). Previously the men's season kicked off with players spread across various smaller-scale tournaments, and outgoing ATP chairman Chris Kermode said it made far more sense to have everyone under one umbrella. "The ATP Cup fits perfectly with our strategy to innovate and look towards the future," he said. "The first week of the season is when the players want to play and that's why the tournament has their strong support." Group A (Brisbane) - Serbia, France, South Africa, Chile Group B (Perth) - Spain, Japan, Georgia, Uruguay Group C (Sydney) - Bulgaria, Belgium, Great Britain, Moldova Group D (Perth) - Russia, Italy, USA, Norway Group E (Sydney) - Austria, Croatia, Argentina, Poland Group F (Brisbane) - Germany, Greece, Canada, Australia.

ATP Cup 2020: Tennis' innovative 24-team tournament to begin from January 3

Spain's talisman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-powers-spain-into-davis-cup-semis-novak-djokovics-serbia-ousted-263989">Rafael Nadal</a> sealed a sixth Davis Cup title for his country on Sunday when they beat <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-hurting-hewitt-pans-davis-cup-scheduling-after-australia-eliminated-263860">Canada</a> 2-0 in the final of the revamped event.

After a week of relentless tension and late-night heroics, it was perhaps asking too much for the first final in the Davis Cup's new guise to deliver a classic and so it proved as Spain became the last nation standing of the 18 who assembled in Madrid.

With Spain's King Felipe watching on, the 33-year-old Nadal fought off Canadian youngster Denis Shapovalov 6-3 7-6(7) to give Spain their first title since 2011.

If any player deserved to get his hands on the famous old trophy again it was Nadal after he worked overtime all week, often into the small hours, to win all eight matches he played.

But he surely would have been happy had it been teammate Roberto Bautista Agut to have delivered the winning point.

Bautista Agut had given the hosts a flying start, beating Felix Auger-Aliassime 7-6(3) 6-2 after returning to the squad following the death of his father.

"An amazing week in every way," said Nadal, who has now won 29 successive Davis Cup singles matches since 2004. "The vital person has been Roberto Bautista."

After beating Auger-Aliassime, Bautista Agut was embraced by his captain Sergi Bruguera and there were emotional scenes at the end as roars of "Campiones" echoed around the arena.

"It was a dream day and all the team members have made an incredible effort, especially Rafa, going to sleep at three, four and five in the morning and the next day going out to play," Bautista Agut said. "It can only be because we are Spanish."

For Gerard Pique, the Barcelona soccer player who has made revamping the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/federer-and-zverev-mexico-city-match-breaks-world-attendance-record-264207">Davis Cup</a> into a tennis World Cup his mission, it was the perfect climax to a week in which the new format suffered glitches but could be judged a qualified success.

Too many late nights, one session finishing at 4.07 a.m., a complicated group stage and tiny crowds at some ties mean there is still lots to improve if the $80 million Pique's Kosmos company is investing in the event each year is sustainable.

But Sunday felt like an authentic Davis Cup final, even if an appearance from pop singer&nbsp;Shakira added a little more glamour than usual.

Once the tennis began it quickly became apparent that Canada captain Frank Dancevic's decision to change his lineup for the first time all week might have backfired.

Vasek Pospisil, ranked 150, had been outstanding all week, beating Italy's 12th-ranked Fabio Fognini and American Reilly Opelka in the group phase, taking down Australia's John Millman in the quarter-finals and partnering Shapovalov to a deciding doubles victory over Russia in the semi-final.

Auger-Aliassime, who has been out with an ankle injury, was given his first call of the week but was outplayed by a rock-solid Bautista Agut, who rejoined the squad on Saturday.

That left Shapovalov seemingly facing mission impossible and his only chance was Nadal's tank being dry.

Having come this far there was no chance Nadal would falter, not with 25,000 Spaniards roaring at every whipped winner.

When he took the opening set with a single break it was all feeling a little anti-climactic for the neutrals but Shapovalov injected some late drama into the proceedings.

The Canadian's serve began to click and his groundstrokes finally took the zip out of Nadal's legs.

Incredibly Nadal showed mercy at 6-4 in the tiebreak, failing to put away a short forehand, and Shapovalov arrowed a winner down the line. The Canadian cheered on by hundreds of his countrymen, saved another match point then had a set point of his own but Nadal averted the danger with a heavy serve.

Nadal got to a third match point and this time Shapovalov could not fight back.

Spain's talisman Rafael Nadal sealed a sixth Davis Cup title for his country on Sunday when they beat Canada 2-0 in the final of the revamped event. After a week of relentless tension and late-night heroics, it was perhaps asking too much for the first final in the Davis Cup's new guise to deliver a classic and so it proved as Spain became the last nation standing of the 18 who assembled in Madrid.

Spain's talisman Rafael Nadal sealed a sixth Davis Cup title for his country on Sunday when they beat Canada 2-0 in the final of the revamped event. After a week of relentless tension and late-night heroics, it was perhaps asking too much for the first final in the Davis Cup's new guise to deliver a classic and so it proved as Spain became the last nation standing of the 18 who assembled in Madrid. With Spain's King Felipe watching on, the 33-year-old Nadal fought off Canadian youngster Denis Shapovalov 6-3 7-6(7) to give Spain their first title since 2011. If any player deserved to get his hands on the famous old trophy again it was Nadal after he worked overtime all week, often into the small hours, to win all eight matches he played. But he surely would have been happy had it been teammate Roberto Bautista Agut to have delivered the winning point. Bautista Agut had given the hosts a flying start, beating Felix Auger-Aliassime 7-6(3) 6-2 after returning to the squad following the death of his father. "An amazing week in every way," said Nadal, who has now won 29 successive Davis Cup singles matches since 2004. "The vital person has been Roberto Bautista." After beating Auger-Aliassime, Bautista Agut was embraced by his captain Sergi Bruguera and there were emotional scenes at the end as roars of "Campiones" echoed around the arena. "It was a dream day and all the team members have made an incredible effort, especially Rafa, going to sleep at three, four and five in the morning and the next day going out to play," Bautista Agut said. "It can only be because we are Spanish." For Gerard Pique, the Barcelona soccer player who has made revamping the Davis Cup into a tennis World Cup his mission, it was the perfect climax to a week in which the new format suffered glitches but could be judged a qualified success. Too many late nights, one session finishing at 4.07 a.m., a complicated group stage and tiny crowds at some ties mean there is still lots to improve if the $80 million Pique's Kosmos company is investing in the event each year is sustainable. But Sunday felt like an authentic Davis Cup final, even if an appearance from pop singer Shakira added a little more glamour than usual. Once the tennis began it quickly became apparent that Canada captain Frank Dancevic's decision to change his lineup for the first time all week might have backfired. Vasek Pospisil, ranked 150, had been outstanding all week, beating Italy's 12th-ranked Fabio Fognini and American Reilly Opelka in the group phase, taking down Australia's John Millman in the quarter-finals and partnering Shapovalov to a deciding doubles victory over Russia in the semi-final. Auger-Aliassime, who has been out with an ankle injury, was given his first call of the week but was outplayed by a rock-solid Bautista Agut, who rejoined the squad on Saturday. That left Shapovalov seemingly facing mission impossible and his only chance was Nadal's tank being dry. Having come this far there was no chance Nadal would falter, not with 25,000 Spaniards roaring at every whipped winner. When he took the opening set with a single break it was all feeling a little anti-climactic for the neutrals but Shapovalov injected some late drama into the proceedings. The Canadian's serve began to click and his groundstrokes finally took the zip out of Nadal's legs. Incredibly Nadal showed mercy at 6-4 in the tiebreak, failing to put away a short forehand, and Shapovalov arrowed a winner down the line. The Canadian cheered on by hundreds of his countrymen, saved another match point then had a set point of his own but Nadal averted the danger with a heavy serve. Nadal got to a third match point and this time Shapovalov could not fight back.

Rafael Nadal leads Spain to Davis Cup win over Canada

Rafael Nadal admitted he gave everything he had left to lead Spain to their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-delivers-glory-for-spain-as-davis-cup-starts-new-era-264332">sixth Davis Cup success</a> on Sunday after they beat Canada in the final in Madrid.

Nadal's 6-3, 7-6 (9/7) victory over Shapovalov confirmed another triumph for Spain after Roberto Bautista Agut had earlier seen off Felix Auger-Aliassime 7-6 (7/3), 6-3.

All five of Spain's squad played a part over the course of the week but <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/davis-cup-rafael-nadal-sparks-spanish-comeback-levels-group-b-tie-263277">Nadal's colossal effort</a> in front of the home fans at the Caja Magica proved the difference.

The 33-year-old won eight out of eight rubbers, including two in the singles and doubles in a pulsating win over Britain on Saturday and then the decisive match that clinched the title against Shapovalov.

"I played one of the toughest possible opponents at the end of a long and difficult week, physically too because I put into this whole event all the energy that I had inside me," said Nadal.

"Honestly it's the perfect end to the season for all of us. We know how difficult it is to win this and how difficult it will be to win it again. We knew we had to convert this opportunity."

Feliciano Lopez, who played alongside Nadal during Spain's doubles win against Britain's Jamie Murray and Neal Skupski on Saturday, said Nadal had been a "super-hero".

"There are things you can't describe with words," said Lopez. "The things he produced in doubles yesterday and then today against Shapovalov are things only Rafa can do.

"If you ask me for my opinion, I will tell you he is a super-hero. He can do things none of us can do. He is a great person and an extraordinary tennis player."

At the end of his win, Nadal hoisted up Bautista Agut, who had returned to the team after withdrawing on Thursday due to the death of his father Joaquin.

"It was very difficult," Bautista Agut said. "I took the decision to go home on Thursday morning and I was back yesterday (Saturday) afternoon to support the team.

"I had the opportunity to play today (Sunday) because all the team and all the players and the rest of the team have made an unbelievable effort since the first day. It was an amazing feeling on the court."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-hurting-hewitt-pans-davis-cup-scheduling-after-australia-eliminated-263860">Canada</a> were playing in their first-ever final in the 119-year-old competition and with Shapovalov and Auger-Aliassime, aged 20 and 19 respectively, their Davis Cup prospects look strong.

"Tennis is really hot right now in Canada," said Canada's team captain Frank Dancevic. "It's really wonderful to see this young generation is playing so well. We have a really bright future ahead of us."

"The Canadian team are amazing," added Nadal. "Probably they are going to be one of those teams that will be almost unbeatable in the next couple of years."

Rafael Nadal admitted he gave everything he had left to lead Spain to their sixth Davis Cup success on Sunday after they beat Canada in the final in Madrid. Nadal's 6-3, 7-6 (9/7) victory over Shapovalov confirmed another triumph for Spain after Roberto Bautista Agut had earlier seen off Felix Auger-Aliassime 7-6 (7/3), 6-3.

Rafael Nadal admitted he gave everything he had left to lead Spain to their sixth Davis Cup success on Sunday after they beat Canada in the final in Madrid. Nadal's 6-3, 7-6 (9/7) victory over Shapovalov confirmed another triumph for Spain after Roberto Bautista Agut had earlier seen off Felix Auger-Aliassime 7-6 (7/3), 6-3. All five of Spain's squad played a part over the course of the week but Nadal's colossal effort in front of the home fans at the Caja Magica proved the difference. The 33-year-old won eight out of eight rubbers, including two in the singles and doubles in a pulsating win over Britain on Saturday and then the decisive match that clinched the title against Shapovalov. "I played one of the toughest possible opponents at the end of a long and difficult week, physically too because I put into this whole event all the energy that I had inside me," said Nadal. "Honestly it's the perfect end to the season for all of us. We know how difficult it is to win this and how difficult it will be to win it again. We knew we had to convert this opportunity." Feliciano Lopez, who played alongside Nadal during Spain's doubles win against Britain's Jamie Murray and Neal Skupski on Saturday, said Nadal had been a "super-hero". "There are things you can't describe with words," said Lopez. "The things he produced in doubles yesterday and then today against Shapovalov are things only Rafa can do. "If you ask me for my opinion, I will tell you he is a super-hero. He can do things none of us can do. He is a great person and an extraordinary tennis player." At the end of his win, Nadal hoisted up Bautista Agut, who had returned to the team after withdrawing on Thursday due to the death of his father Joaquin. "It was very difficult," Bautista Agut said. "I took the decision to go home on Thursday morning and I was back yesterday (Saturday) afternoon to support the team. "I had the opportunity to play today (Sunday) because all the team and all the players and the rest of the team have made an unbelievable effort since the first day. It was an amazing feeling on the court." Canada were playing in their first-ever final in the 119-year-old competition and with Shapovalov and Auger-Aliassime, aged 20 and 19 respectively, their Davis Cup prospects look strong. "Tennis is really hot right now in Canada," said Canada's team captain Frank Dancevic. "It's really wonderful to see this young generation is playing so well. We have a really bright future ahead of us." "The Canadian team are amazing," added Nadal. "Probably they are going to be one of those teams that will be almost unbeatable in the next couple of years."

I had nothing left to give, says Rafael Nadal after Spain win Davis Cup

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/davis-cup-rafael-nadal-sparks-spanish-comeback-levels-group-b-tie-263277">Rafael Nadal</a> won back-to-back matches to propel Spain to a 2-1 victory over Argentina and a place in the semi-finals of the new-look Davis Cup on Friday.

World number one Nadal thrashed Diego Schwartzman 6-1, 6-2 to pull Spain level after Guido Pella put the Argentines ahead with a 6-7 (3/7), 7-6 (7/4), 6-1 win over Pablo Carreno.

Nadal then teamed with Marcel Granollers to beat Maximo Gonzalez and Leonardo Mayer 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 in a must-win doubles match to see Spain into a final-four clash with Great Britain.

"I had a good singles match, but the doubles came down to a few balls because the game was very close," Nadal said. "It's a great victory, but we don't have time to enjoy it, we have to rest because tomorrow it will be difficult again."

Britain meanwhile eased into the semis with an efficient 2-0 effort over Germany.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/andy-murray-leads-britain-to-opening-davis-cup-win-spain-reach-last-eight-263586">Andy Murray</a> was rested on Friday but will likely feature in the semi-finals. In his absence Kyle Edmund beat Philipp Kohlschreiber 6-3, 7-5 in the first rubber with Daniel Evans taking three sets to see off Jan-Lennard Struff 7-6 (8/6), 3-6, 7-6 (7/2).

Earlier Russia beat <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-guides-serbia-into-davis-cup-quarter-finals-263723">Novak Djokovic's Serbia</a> to reach the semi-finals following a cliff-hanger match that went all the way to a deciding tie-breaker.

With the quarter-final level at 1-1 following the singles, the Russian pairing of Karen Khachanov and Andrey Rublev faced Djokovic and Viktor Troicki in the deciding rubber.

After a see-saw match of high drama the Russians came out 6-4, 4-6, 7-6 (10/8) winners and face Canada, quarter-final victors over Australia, in Saturday's semi-finals.

"It was heads or tails and the coin fell on our side," Rublev said.

"God gave me a chance to be a hero," he added.

Kachanov was already looking forward to the next match.

"We'll have to get it together for Canada," he said of the semi-final.&nbsp;

"Luck was on our side here, but this was one of the biggest games of either our careers."

Earlier in the day Rublev won the first singles over Filip Krajinovic 6-1, 6-2 to give Russia a lead, cancelled out later by Djokovic, who overcame Khachanov 6-3, 6-3.

The world number two Djokovic, winner of 16 Grand Slams said the match had been "a real roller-coaster of a game, very, very emotional and very tense".

"Sport&nbsp;is not all about winning and losing but this hurts me personally," said the 32-year-old.

"Anyway the season is over now, we'll get over it. Tomorrow is another day."

In the absence of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-finals-rafael-nadal-roars-back-from-brink-to-beat-medvedev-261945">Daniil Medvedev</a>, the Russian star who pulled out of the event citing exhaustion, captain Shamil Tarpischev placed his faith in Rublev and Khachanov for both singles and doubles.

In the end, it all hinged on the doubles with Russia taking the first set 6-4.

In the second set and with the Serbs up 4-2 Djokovic appeared to suffer discomfort from his right elbow, the same place where her reported pain at the ATP Finals last week.

"A sudden movement caused a sharp pain, but I was still able to serve," said Djokovic.

After receiving two massage sessions during changeovers Djokovic appeared to have recovered and Serbia were back on level terms one set-all.

The third set went to 6-6. Then the Serbs missed three match points in the tie-breaker, most agonisingly when Troicki missed an easy volley for victory.

The Russians made no mistake when their turn came, clinching victory with their first match point.

Rafael Nadal won back-to-back matches to propel Spain to a 2-1 victory over Argentina and a place in the semi-finals of the new-look Davis Cup on Friday. World number one Nadal thrashed Diego Schwartzman 6-1, 6-2 to pull Spain level after Guido Pella put the Argentines ahead with a 6-7 (3/7), 7-6 (7/4), 6-1 win over Pablo Carreno.

Rafael Nadal won back-to-back matches to propel Spain to a 2-1 victory over Argentina and a place in the semi-finals of the new-look Davis Cup on Friday. World number one Nadal thrashed Diego Schwartzman 6-1, 6-2 to pull Spain level after Guido Pella put the Argentines ahead with a 6-7 (3/7), 7-6 (7/4), 6-1 win over Pablo Carreno. Nadal then teamed with Marcel Granollers to beat Maximo Gonzalez and Leonardo Mayer 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 in a must-win doubles match to see Spain into a final-four clash with Great Britain. "I had a good singles match, but the doubles came down to a few balls because the game was very close," Nadal said. "It's a great victory, but we don't have time to enjoy it, we have to rest because tomorrow it will be difficult again." Britain meanwhile eased into the semis with an efficient 2-0 effort over Germany. Andy Murray was rested on Friday but will likely feature in the semi-finals. In his absence Kyle Edmund beat Philipp Kohlschreiber 6-3, 7-5 in the first rubber with Daniel Evans taking three sets to see off Jan-Lennard Struff 7-6 (8/6), 3-6, 7-6 (7/2). Earlier Russia beat Novak Djokovic's Serbia to reach the semi-finals following a cliff-hanger match that went all the way to a deciding tie-breaker. With the quarter-final level at 1-1 following the singles, the Russian pairing of Karen Khachanov and Andrey Rublev faced Djokovic and Viktor Troicki in the deciding rubber. After a see-saw match of high drama the Russians came out 6-4, 4-6, 7-6 (10/8) winners and face Canada, quarter-final victors over Australia, in Saturday's semi-finals. "It was heads or tails and the coin fell on our side," Rublev said. "God gave me a chance to be a hero," he added. Kachanov was already looking forward to the next match. "We'll have to get it together for Canada," he said of the semi-final. "Luck was on our side here, but this was one of the biggest games of either our careers." Earlier in the day Rublev won the first singles over Filip Krajinovic 6-1, 6-2 to give Russia a lead, cancelled out later by Djokovic, who overcame Khachanov 6-3, 6-3. The world number two Djokovic, winner of 16 Grand Slams said the match had been "a real roller-coaster of a game, very, very emotional and very tense". "Sport is not all about winning and losing but this hurts me personally," said the 32-year-old. "Anyway the season is over now, we'll get over it. Tomorrow is another day." In the absence of Daniil Medvedev, the Russian star who pulled out of the event citing exhaustion, captain Shamil Tarpischev placed his faith in Rublev and Khachanov for both singles and doubles. In the end, it all hinged on the doubles with Russia taking the first set 6-4. In the second set and with the Serbs up 4-2 Djokovic appeared to suffer discomfort from his right elbow, the same place where her reported pain at the ATP Finals last week. "A sudden movement caused a sharp pain, but I was still able to serve," said Djokovic. After receiving two massage sessions during changeovers Djokovic appeared to have recovered and Serbia were back on level terms one set-all. The third set went to 6-6. Then the Serbs missed three match points in the tie-breaker, most agonisingly when Troicki missed an easy volley for victory. The Russians made no mistake when their turn came, clinching victory with their first match point.

Rafael Nadal powers Spain into Davis Cup semis, Novak Djokovic's Serbia ousted

Novak Djokovic says the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/canada-finally-beat-us-to-reach-davis-cup-last-eight-263273">Davis Cup Finals</a> and the ATP Cup cannot co-exist and must merge and believes an elite eight-nation competition in September would be the ideal scenario.

The 32-year-old 16-time Grand Slam champion helped Serbia to a 3-0 victory over Japan in their Group A opener on Wednesday at La Caja Magica where a revamped Davis Cup climax is being contested by 18 nations over seven days.

In January, 24 nations will contest the ATP Cup across three cities in Australia, leading to the obvious question of how two similar-looking team events can take place six weeks apart.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-finals-novak-djokovics-hopes-crushed-as-roger-federer-serves-up-a-masterclass-262232">Djokovic </a>would appear to have his feet in both camps. He is president of the ATP's Player Council but also has a deep affection for the International Tennis Federation's flagship Davis Cup, having won the title in 2010.

"I'm sure that organisers of (the Davis Cup) are doing their best to make this a successful week, a successful event," Djokovic told reporters on Wednesday.

"It's a lot of responsibility and pressure on them because this is the most traditional, historic team event in our sport. There's a tremendous burden of history on them to make it right.

"But then, of course, scheduling was always an issue, for both <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tsitsipas-clinches-maiden-atp-finals-after-beating-thiem-262805">ATP Cup </a>and Davis Cup. In my opinion, which was an idea, that it could happen, was a merger between the two.

"And so I think it's still open for the future."

Satisfying so many different interests, which also includes the successful Laver Cup, is not easy though, he admits.

"I've been part of discussions through the Player Council, through various different ways in the last three years," Djokovic said. "Of course, the ITF and ATP are two different organisations. It's very complex. It's not easy to make any change in our sport.

"Looking long-term, I personally don't think the two events can co-exist six weeks apart. It's a little too congested."

Djokovic has been upbeat about the new Davis Cup format, which was voted in by the ITF in 2018 and bankrolled by a $3 billion 25-year partnership with Kosmos, the Barcelona-based investment company owned by soccer player Gerard Pique.

The revamp, which Djokovic says was necessary because of flagging interest in the competition from players and media, has upset many because it has largely done away with the much-loved "home" ties that were so important to nations.

There is still a qualifying round in February, from which 12 nations book their place in the Davis Cup Finals. The four semi-finalists from the previous year qualify automatically, while the ITF picks two wildcard nations.

Djokovic believes a halfway house would be a better solution with some kind of "super cup" played in September.

"I miss playing at home for Serbia in the Davis Cup. But I support the fact there had to be a change from the old format.

"I think maybe the ideal format is somewhere in between. Maybe creating an elite eight tournament and having maybe one week or two weeks earlier in the year where nations can play at home in the qualifications group for the elite eight."

The ATP Cup will have total prize money of $15 million. The new Davis Cup Finals offers around $18 million to teams and another $9 million to federations.

Novak Djokovic says the Davis Cup Finals and the ATP Cup cannot co-exist and must merge and believes an elite eight-nation competition in September would be the ideal scenario.

Novak Djokovic says the Davis Cup Finals and the ATP Cup cannot co-exist and must merge and believes an elite eight-nation competition in September would be the ideal scenario. The 32-year-old 16-time Grand Slam champion helped Serbia to a 3-0 victory over Japan in their Group A opener on Wednesday at La Caja Magica where a revamped Davis Cup climax is being contested by 18 nations over seven days. In January, 24 nations will contest the ATP Cup across three cities in Australia, leading to the obvious question of how two similar-looking team events can take place six weeks apart. Djokovic would appear to have his feet in both camps. He is president of the ATP's Player Council but also has a deep affection for the International Tennis Federation's flagship Davis Cup, having won the title in 2010. "I'm sure that organisers of (the Davis Cup) are doing their best to make this a successful week, a successful event," Djokovic told reporters on Wednesday. "It's a lot of responsibility and pressure on them because this is the most traditional, historic team event in our sport. There's a tremendous burden of history on them to make it right. "But then, of course, scheduling was always an issue, for both ATP Cup and Davis Cup. In my opinion, which was an idea, that it could happen, was a merger between the two. "And so I think it's still open for the future." Satisfying so many different interests, which also includes the successful Laver Cup, is not easy though, he admits. "I've been part of discussions through the Player Council, through various different ways in the last three years," Djokovic said. "Of course, the ITF and ATP are two different organisations. It's very complex. It's not easy to make any change in our sport. "Looking long-term, I personally don't think the two events can co-exist six weeks apart. It's a little too congested." Djokovic has been upbeat about the new Davis Cup format, which was voted in by the ITF in 2018 and bankrolled by a $3 billion 25-year partnership with Kosmos, the Barcelona-based investment company owned by soccer player Gerard Pique. The revamp, which Djokovic says was necessary because of flagging interest in the competition from players and media, has upset many because it has largely done away with the much-loved "home" ties that were so important to nations. There is still a qualifying round in February, from which 12 nations book their place in the Davis Cup Finals. The four semi-finalists from the previous year qualify automatically, while the ITF picks two wildcard nations. Djokovic believes a halfway house would be a better solution with some kind of "super cup" played in September. "I miss playing at home for Serbia in the Davis Cup. But I support the fact there had to be a change from the old format. "I think maybe the ideal format is somewhere in between. Maybe creating an elite eight tournament and having maybe one week or two weeks earlier in the year where nations can play at home in the qualifications group for the elite eight." The ATP Cup will have total prize money of $15 million. The new Davis Cup Finals offers around $18 million to teams and another $9 million to federations.

Novak Djokovic calls for merger of ATP Cup and Davis Cup

Shortly before midnight on Tuesday in Madrid's La Caja Magica,<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-knocked-out-from-atp-finals-despite-win-over-stefanos-tsitsipas-zverev-through-to-semis-262521"> Rafael Nadal</a> punched the air as chants of "Rafa, Rafa" echoed around the arena and the Davis Cup Finals burst into life.

After generally disappointing attendances so far at the glitzy new version of the 119-year-old competition, a sell-out crowd in the cavernous 12,500-seat stadium roared the world number one to a 6-3 7-6(7) win over Russia's Karen Khachanov.

While the reaction to Nadal's victory sounded like Spain had won the old trophy for a sixth time it actually just levelled the Group B tie at 1-1.

The victory would come shortly before 2 a.m. when veteran duo Feliciano Lopez and Marcel Granollers beat Khachanov and Andrey Rublev 6-4 7-6 to clinch a 2-1 win.

With Russia having beaten defending champions Croatia 3-0 on Monday there was some anxiety on the Spain bench when Rublev surged back to beat Wimbledon semi-finalist Roberto Bautista Agut 3-6 6-3 7-6(0) and put them ahead.

That left the 33-year-old Nadal with no margin for error against dangerous world number 17 Khachanov. But if ever there is a man for a crisis it is Nadal.

He had won his last 24 Davis Cup singles rubbers since losing on his debut in 2004 and was not about to stop now, not on home soil with his country depending on him.

Khachanov stretched him to breaking point at times, especially in the second set, but the 19-times Grand Slam champion fought off a set point before claiming victory.

Afterwards he said the new format, with ties consisting of three rubbers rather than the traditional five, made things dangerous for the fancied nations.

"The format makes things very difficult because every mistake puts you in a position that you don't want to be," Nadal told reporters, anxiously peering at the television to keep track of his compatriots playing doubles.

"The atmosphere has been amazing. The only negative thing in my opinion is we are just starting the last match at 1 a.m. That makes big trouble for us, for the players and the people who come to the stadium because tomorrow is a work day."

Spain can reach the quarter-finals on Wednesday by beating Croatia, who axed captain Zeljko Krajan two days before their opening tie and will be without injured talisman Marin Cilic.

Canada's tennis resurgence continued as they became the first nation through to the last eight after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/canada-finally-beat-us-to-reach-davis-cup-last-eight-263273">beating the United States</a> for the first time in 16 attempts.

Vasek Pospisil, ranked 150th in the world, edged youngster Reilly Opelka 7-6(5) 7-6(7) before Denis Shapovalov beat Taylor Fritz. The Canadians' second 2-1 win, having beaten Italy on Monday, sealed top spot in Group F.

"Right now, Canada is really in the best place it's been in

tennis history," Pospisil said.

Canada could face Australia in the last eight after Nick Kyrgios returned from a two-month lay-off to put his team on their way to a 3-0 win over Colombia in Group D.

Australia face Belgium in a group decider on Wednesday.

Top seeds and last year's runners-up France had a close shave as they beat Japan 2-1, Nicolas Mahut and Pierre-Hugues Herbert winning the decisive doubles 6-7(4) 6-4 7-5 against Ben McLachlan and Yasutaka Uchiyama.

There were no French fans there to watch it, however.

The Les Bleus supporters club has boycotted the event in protest at radical changes that have largely replaced the 10-month long home and away knockout format with an 18-nation season-ender in a single city, played over seven hectic days.

"Actually, it was pretty special because it was the first time I hear myself singing La Marseillaise," Herbert joked.

Argentina beat Chile 3-0 in Group C while in Group E Kazakhstan edged the Netherlands 2-1.

The six group winners and two best-placed runners-up progress to the quarter-finals.

Shortly before midnight on Tuesday in Madrid's La Caja Magica, Rafael Nadal punched the air as chants of "Rafa, Rafa" echoed around the arena and the Davis Cup Finals burst into life.

Shortly before midnight on Tuesday in Madrid's La Caja Magica, Rafael Nadal punched the air as chants of "Rafa, Rafa" echoed around the arena and the Davis Cup Finals burst into life. After generally disappointing attendances so far at the glitzy new version of the 119-year-old competition, a sell-out crowd in the cavernous 12,500-seat stadium roared the world number one to a 6-3 7-6(7) win over Russia's Karen Khachanov. While the reaction to Nadal's victory sounded like Spain had won the old trophy for a sixth time it actually just levelled the Group B tie at 1-1. The victory would come shortly before 2 a.m. when veteran duo Feliciano Lopez and Marcel Granollers beat Khachanov and Andrey Rublev 6-4 7-6 to clinch a 2-1 win. With Russia having beaten defending champions Croatia 3-0 on Monday there was some anxiety on the Spain bench when Rublev surged back to beat Wimbledon semi-finalist Roberto Bautista Agut 3-6 6-3 7-6(0) and put them ahead. That left the 33-year-old Nadal with no margin for error against dangerous world number 17 Khachanov. But if ever there is a man for a crisis it is Nadal. He had won his last 24 Davis Cup singles rubbers since losing on his debut in 2004 and was not about to stop now, not on home soil with his country depending on him. Khachanov stretched him to breaking point at times, especially in the second set, but the 19-times Grand Slam champion fought off a set point before claiming victory. Afterwards he said the new format, with ties consisting of three rubbers rather than the traditional five, made things dangerous for the fancied nations. "The format makes things very difficult because every mistake puts you in a position that you don't want to be," Nadal told reporters, anxiously peering at the television to keep track of his compatriots playing doubles. "The atmosphere has been amazing. The only negative thing in my opinion is we are just starting the last match at 1 a.m. That makes big trouble for us, for the players and the people who come to the stadium because tomorrow is a work day." Spain can reach the quarter-finals on Wednesday by beating Croatia, who axed captain Zeljko Krajan two days before their opening tie and will be without injured talisman Marin Cilic. Canada's tennis resurgence continued as they became the first nation through to the last eight after beating the United States for the first time in 16 attempts. Vasek Pospisil, ranked 150th in the world, edged youngster Reilly Opelka 7-6(5) 7-6(7) before Denis Shapovalov beat Taylor Fritz. The Canadians' second 2-1 win, having beaten Italy on Monday, sealed top spot in Group F. "Right now, Canada is really in the best place it's been in tennis history," Pospisil said. Canada could face Australia in the last eight after Nick Kyrgios returned from a two-month lay-off to put his team on their way to a 3-0 win over Colombia in Group D. Australia face Belgium in a group decider on Wednesday. Top seeds and last year's runners-up France had a close shave as they beat Japan 2-1, Nicolas Mahut and Pierre-Hugues Herbert winning the decisive doubles 6-7(4) 6-4 7-5 against Ben McLachlan and Yasutaka Uchiyama. There were no French fans there to watch it, however. The Les Bleus supporters club has boycotted the event in protest at radical changes that have largely replaced the 10-month long home and away knockout format with an 18-nation season-ender in a single city, played over seven hectic days. "Actually, it was pretty special because it was the first time I hear myself singing La Marseillaise," Herbert joked. Argentina beat Chile 3-0 in Group C while in Group E Kazakhstan edged the Netherlands 2-1. The six group winners and two best-placed runners-up progress to the quarter-finals.

Davis Cup: Rafael Nadal sparks Spanish comeback, levels Group B tie

For the second time in three days at the ATP Finals, Rafael Nadal fought off one of the game's rising powers but beating Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas proved in vain as his semi-final hopes vanished on Friday.

The indomitable Spaniard delighted his fans in the 02 Arena as he recovered from losing the opening set to beat Tsitsipas 6-7(4) 6-4 7-5, after which he was presented with a huge trophy for sealing the end-of-year number one ranking.

Sadly for Nadal, and all those who were looking forward to him taking on Roger Federer in Saturday's semi-finals, Germany's defending champion Alexander Zverev had not read the script.

The round-robin format at the ATP Finals throws up some complicated scenarios. None more so than Friday.

Tsitsipas had already qualified for the semi-finals courtesy of wins over Daniil Medvedev and Zverev, while Nadal needed a win and for Medvedev to beat Zverev in the night match.

Had that happened he would have topped the group. Instead, Zverev's clinical 6-4 7-6(4) win relegated Nadal to third despite also having two wins. Tsitsipas won the group while Zverev took second place courtesy of his head-to-head advantage over Nadal who he beat impressively on Monday.

Perhaps it had been asking too much for the 23-year-old Medvedev to save him. After all, Nadal beat the Russian in an epic US Open final, came back from 1-5 down in the third set to beat him here on Wednesday and then his win over Tsitsipas effectively ended Medvedev's slim semi-final chances.

The Russian won more matches (59) then any other player this year but was not at his best against Zverev and went home from his London debut with three losses.

Tsitsipas must now recover from his near three-hour loss to Nadal to face Federer in Saturday's first semi-final before Zverev takes on Austrian Dominic Thiem.

Super happy

Federer's win to knock out Novak Djokovic on Thursday meant Nadal will end the year as number one for the fifth time.

But the Herculean effort he put in to beat Tsitsipas suggested he really wanted to get his hands on the ATP Finals trophy for the first time after finishing runner-up in 2010 and 2013.

At least Nadal signed off in style. After winning a 12th French Open this year and the US&nbsp;Open and reaching the final at the Australian Open and semi-final at Wimbledon, few could deny him his trophy celebration on Friday.

"Honestly, what can I say? I am super happy," Nadal, the oldest man to finish a year ranked number one, told the crowd. "After all the things that I went through in my career in terms of injuries, I never thought at the age of 33 and a half that I will have this trophy in my hands again."

Tsitsipas had not dropped a set before Friday and duly took the opening set with an ace to clinch a tiebreak.

Nadal was never going down without a fight though and began to play with a frightening intensity in the second set, pumping himself up with roars of "Vamos" after winning key points.

Tsitsipas saved break points at 2-2 and 3-3 but Nadal was now in hunting mode and at 4-4 he finally cornered his prey to break for the first time.

The final set went with serve as the two players slugged it out from the baseline but Tsitsipas blinked first, dropping serve at 5-5 when Nadal forced a volley error.

Nadal then held serve for victory but rather than prepare for a 41st clash with Federer he can instead focus on next week's revamped Davis Cup Finals.

Tsitsipas, whose all-court style has made such an impression on his debut, might rue the energy expended in going toe-to-toe with the game's greatest warrior.

"I wanted to win but probably wasn't willing to die on the court for that, my main focus is doing well in the semi-finals," he said. "I did leave something in the tank."

World number one doubles pair Juan Sebastian Cabal and Robert Farah scraped into the semi-finals after beating German duo Kevin Krawietz and Andreas Mies 7-6(7) 6-2 for their first group win. They will face Raven Klassen and Michael Venus.

For the second time in three days at the ATP Finals, Rafael Nadal fought off one of the game's rising powers but beating Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas proved in vain as his semi-final hopes vanished on Friday.

For the second time in three days at the ATP Finals, Rafael Nadal fought off one of the game's rising powers but beating Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas proved in vain as his semi-final hopes vanished on Friday. The indomitable Spaniard delighted his fans in the 02 Arena as he recovered from losing the opening set to beat Tsitsipas 6-7(4) 6-4 7-5, after which he was presented with a huge trophy for sealing the end-of-year number one ranking. Sadly for Nadal, and all those who were looking forward to him taking on Roger Federer in Saturday's semi-finals, Germany's defending champion Alexander Zverev had not read the script. The round-robin format at the ATP Finals throws up some complicated scenarios. None more so than Friday. Tsitsipas had already qualified for the semi-finals courtesy of wins over Daniil Medvedev and Zverev, while Nadal needed a win and for Medvedev to beat Zverev in the night match. Had that happened he would have topped the group. Instead, Zverev's clinical 6-4 7-6(4) win relegated Nadal to third despite also having two wins. Tsitsipas won the group while Zverev took second place courtesy of his head-to-head advantage over Nadal who he beat impressively on Monday. Perhaps it had been asking too much for the 23-year-old Medvedev to save him. After all, Nadal beat the Russian in an epic US Open final, came back from 1-5 down in the third set to beat him here on Wednesday and then his win over Tsitsipas effectively ended Medvedev's slim semi-final chances. The Russian won more matches (59) then any other player this year but was not at his best against Zverev and went home from his London debut with three losses. Tsitsipas must now recover from his near three-hour loss to Nadal to face Federer in Saturday's first semi-final before Zverev takes on Austrian Dominic Thiem. Super happy Federer's win to knock out Novak Djokovic on Thursday meant Nadal will end the year as number one for the fifth time. But the Herculean effort he put in to beat Tsitsipas suggested he really wanted to get his hands on the ATP Finals trophy for the first time after finishing runner-up in 2010 and 2013. At least Nadal signed off in style. After winning a 12th French Open this year and the US Open and reaching the final at the Australian Open and semi-final at Wimbledon, few could deny him his trophy celebration on Friday. "Honestly, what can I say? I am super happy," Nadal, the oldest man to finish a year ranked number one, told the crowd. "After all the things that I went through in my career in terms of injuries, I never thought at the age of 33 and a half that I will have this trophy in my hands again." Tsitsipas had not dropped a set before Friday and duly took the opening set with an ace to clinch a tiebreak. Nadal was never going down without a fight though and began to play with a frightening intensity in the second set, pumping himself up with roars of "Vamos" after winning key points. Tsitsipas saved break points at 2-2 and 3-3 but Nadal was now in hunting mode and at 4-4 he finally cornered his prey to break for the first time. The final set went with serve as the two players slugged it out from the baseline but Tsitsipas blinked first, dropping serve at 5-5 when Nadal forced a volley error. Nadal then held serve for victory but rather than prepare for a 41st clash with Federer he can instead focus on next week's revamped Davis Cup Finals. Tsitsipas, whose all-court style has made such an impression on his debut, might rue the energy expended in going toe-to-toe with the game's greatest warrior. "I wanted to win but probably wasn't willing to die on the court for that, my main focus is doing well in the semi-finals," he said. "I did leave something in the tank." World number one doubles pair Juan Sebastian Cabal and Robert Farah scraped into the semi-finals after beating German duo Kevin Krawietz and Andreas Mies 7-6(7) 6-2 for their first group win. They will face Raven Klassen and Michael Venus.

Rafael Nadal knocked out from ATP Finals despite win over Stefanos Tsitsipas, Zverev through to semis

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-finals-federer-eyes-djokovic-after-rebounding-against-berrettini-261773">Roger Federer</a> lit up the O2 Arena with a dazzling 6-4 6-3 defeat of Novak Djokovic to hand the Serb an early ATP Finals exit and wreck his bid to end the year ranked number one on Thursday.

In the 49th meeting between the two great rivals, Federer snapped a five-match losing run against Djokovic and gained some consolation for his heartbreaking Wimbledon final defeat.

After both men had been <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-finals-probably-my-best-ever-says-thiem-after-djokovic-win-261758">beaten by Dominic Thiem</a> earlier in the group, their eagerly-anticipated duel was a straight shoot-out to join the Austrian in the semi-finals.

Cheered on by the majority of the 17,000 fans in the arena, Federer produced an astonishing display of power, grace and precision and Djokovic simply had no answer.

Djokovic's first defeat by Federer for four years means <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-finals-rafael-nadal-roars-back-from-brink-to-beat-medvedev-261945">Rafael Nadal</a> will end the year as world number one for the fifth time even if the Spaniard fails to reach the semi-finals.

Federer, Djokovic and Nadal have all achieved the feat five times. Pete Sampras managed it a record six times.

Nadal takes on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tsitsipas-thrashes-zverev-to-reach-atp-semis-262017">Stefanos Tsitsipas</a> in the other group on Friday and should he win and Alexander Zverev lose to Daniil Medvedev, it would set up a Nadal versus Federer semi-final.

Federer had played down talk of seeking revenge when asked about his impending clash with Djokovic this week, but his victory celebration showed exactly what it meant.

"I felt from the get-go I had good rhythm off the baseline and on the serve and that I felt like he was living dangerously if he was not going to play great tennis," Federer, who at 38 continues to mock the ageing process, told reporters.

"I got what I kind of expected, and it was a great feeling at the very end. The reaction showed."

Djokovic, who had needed to win the title to stand any chance of overhauling Nadal, said it had been a "bad match" from his side but admitted Federer had done everything right.

"He was the better player in all aspects," the 32-year-old said. "I have the utmost admiration for him. What he's still showing on the court is phenomenal."

England's soccer team was playing across the city at Wembley on Thursday, but when Federer and Djokovic share a tennis court it is always the hottest ticket in town.

Djokovic had reached the final on his last six appearances at the ATP's most exclusive event in London while six-time champion Federer had only once failed to reach the semi-finals in his 16 previous appearances.

Something had to give and from the moment second seed Djokovic double-faulted twice in the third game to invite an early break for Federer, he was never really in contention.

Federer was seeing the ball like a melon, timing his groundstrokes to perfection while his serve was unplayable.

He dropped only three points on serve in the opening set and Djokovic's only chance was that Federer would cool off.

Djokovic dug deep to fend off break points in the opening game of the second set, then had his one and only break point in the fourth game but Federer whipped a huge forehand into the corner before pouncing on a volley.

Federer was relentless and surged 0-40 ahead in the next game. Djokovic saved one break point with a backhand pass but hit a forehand long on the next.

With crowd roaring Federer on, the end came quickly.

Serving to stay in the match, Djokovic was broken to love as Federer sent a dipping backhand to his feet.

Earlier in the day Matteo Berrettini became the first Italian to win a match at the ATP's year-ender, beating Thiem 7-6(3) 6-3. Despite the loss, Thiem won the group by virtue of his victory over Federer on Sunday.

Roger Federer lit up the O2 Arena with a dazzling 6-4 6-3 defeat of Novak Djokovic to hand the Serb an early ATP Finals exit and wreck his bid to end the year ranked number one on Thursday.

Roger Federer lit up the O2 Arena with a dazzling 6-4 6-3 defeat of Novak Djokovic to hand the Serb an early ATP Finals exit and wreck his bid to end the year ranked number one on Thursday. In the 49th meeting between the two great rivals, Federer snapped a five-match losing run against Djokovic and gained some consolation for his heartbreaking Wimbledon final defeat. After both men had been beaten by Dominic Thiem earlier in the group, their eagerly-anticipated duel was a straight shoot-out to join the Austrian in the semi-finals. Cheered on by the majority of the 17,000 fans in the arena, Federer produced an astonishing display of power, grace and precision and Djokovic simply had no answer. Djokovic's first defeat by Federer for four years means Rafael Nadal will end the year as world number one for the fifth time even if the Spaniard fails to reach the semi-finals. Federer, Djokovic and Nadal have all achieved the feat five times. Pete Sampras managed it a record six times. Nadal takes on Stefanos Tsitsipas in the other group on Friday and should he win and Alexander Zverev lose to Daniil Medvedev, it would set up a Nadal versus Federer semi-final. Federer had played down talk of seeking revenge when asked about his impending clash with Djokovic this week, but his victory celebration showed exactly what it meant. "I felt from the get-go I had good rhythm off the baseline and on the serve and that I felt like he was living dangerously if he was not going to play great tennis," Federer, who at 38 continues to mock the ageing process, told reporters. "I got what I kind of expected, and it was a great feeling at the very end. The reaction showed." Djokovic, who had needed to win the title to stand any chance of overhauling Nadal, said it had been a "bad match" from his side but admitted Federer had done everything right. "He was the better player in all aspects," the 32-year-old said. "I have the utmost admiration for him. What he's still showing on the court is phenomenal." England's soccer team was playing across the city at Wembley on Thursday, but when Federer and Djokovic share a tennis court it is always the hottest ticket in town. Djokovic had reached the final on his last six appearances at the ATP's most exclusive event in London while six-time champion Federer had only once failed to reach the semi-finals in his 16 previous appearances. Something had to give and from the moment second seed Djokovic double-faulted twice in the third game to invite an early break for Federer, he was never really in contention. Federer was seeing the ball like a melon, timing his groundstrokes to perfection while his serve was unplayable. He dropped only three points on serve in the opening set and Djokovic's only chance was that Federer would cool off. Djokovic dug deep to fend off break points in the opening game of the second set, then had his one and only break point in the fourth game but Federer whipped a huge forehand into the corner before pouncing on a volley. Federer was relentless and surged 0-40 ahead in the next game. Djokovic saved one break point with a backhand pass but hit a forehand long on the next. With crowd roaring Federer on, the end came quickly. Serving to stay in the match, Djokovic was broken to love as Federer sent a dipping backhand to his feet. Earlier in the day Matteo Berrettini became the first Italian to win a match at the ATP's year-ender, beating Thiem 7-6(3) 6-3. Despite the loss, Thiem won the group by virtue of his victory over Federer on Sunday.

ATP Finals: Novak Djokovic's hopes crushed as Roger Federer serves up masterclass

Rafael Nadal produced an incredible fightback to beat Russian Daniil Medvedev and keep his&nbsp;ATP&nbsp;Finals&nbsp;hopes alive on Wednesday, saving a match point at 1-5 down in the decider before winning 6-7(3) 6-3 7-6(4).

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-once-again-claims-no-1-spot-in-rankings-novak-djokovic-slips-259888">world number one</a> will require a victory over in-form Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas on Friday to have a chance of reaching the semi-finals. Tsitsipas, 21, is definitely there though after thrashing Alexander Zverev 6-3 6-2 in the evening match.

Nadal looked beaten as 23-year-old debutant Medvedev broke serve twice in the decider to stand on the brink of a first career victory over the Spaniard he pushed to five sets in an epic US&nbsp;Open final in September.

For once world number one Nadal's trademark fighting spirit seemed to have ebbed away but he saved a match point at 1-5 with a superb drop shot and was suddenly re-energised.

Twice Medvedev served for the match, at 5-2 and 5-4, but he tightened up and world number one Nadal, roared on by the 02 Arena crowd, needed no second invitation to take advantage.

Nadal has never won the&nbsp;ATP&nbsp;Finals&nbsp;title, the only gap on a CV that includes 19 Grand Slam titles and Olympic gold.

He was beaten by German defending champion Zverev for the first time on Monday in his opening round-robin match and defeat by Medvedev, who he had also never lost to before, would have left him on the brink of elimination.

After an astonishing recovery, however, he will go into his final group game against Tsitsipas with everything to play for as he bids to not only win the title for the first time but also seal the year-end world number one ranking.

Nadal arrived in London with concerns over an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-rafael-nadal-to-travel-to-atp-finals-despite-injury-260225">abdominal injury</a>, but even when not at his sharpest he remains one of the hardest players on Tour to finish off.

"Honestly I've been super lucky," he said on court. "For Daniil it's a tough loss. He was playing much better than me in the third set of course but it was one of these days when you have a one in a thousand chance to win."

The deceptively powerful Medvedev dropped only six points on serve in the opening set and comfortably bagged the tiebreak.

His focus dipped at the start of the second though, allowing Nadal a quick break and when the Spaniard broke again to take the set it seemed the momentum was with him.

Medvedev played superbly in the deciding set though,&nbsp;until 5-1. A dreadful Nadal backhand slice gave the Russian a first break and when he chased down a drop shot to flick a winner past Nadal on his way to a 4-0 lead he was in command.

But from 1-5 down Nadal reeled off five straight games and when Medvedev trailed 0-30 at 5-6 he seemed to be a spent force.

Medvedev regained his composure in the nick of time to hold serve with an ace and looked dangerous again in the tiebreak.

But he missed an easy forehand at 4-5 to give Nadal two match points and then a backhand went agonisingly wide to hand the Spaniard one of the most remarkable wins of his career.

"Rafa could say, okay, it's over at 5-1 and just give me the point, but we all know Rafa is not about this," Medvedev said.

The maths of the group means a straight-sets win for Medvedev over Zverev could see him progress to the semis.

Nadal's tournament fate is not in his own hands though. He must beat Tsitsipas and hope that Medvedev beats Zverev.

Even if he does not reach the semis, Nadal tightened his grip on the number one ranking as Novak Djokovic now must win the title to have a chance of overtaking him.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-rafael-nadal-to-travel-to-atp-finals-despite-injury-260225">Djokovic faces Roger Federer</a> on Thursday in a must-win match for both players.

Rafael Nadal produced an incredible fightback to beat Russian Daniil Medvedev and keep his ATP Finals hopes alive on Wednesday, saving a match point at 1-5 down in the decider before winning 6-7(3) 6-3 7-6(4).

Rafael Nadal produced an incredible fightback to beat Russian Daniil Medvedev and keep his ATP Finals hopes alive on Wednesday, saving a match point at 1-5 down in the decider before winning 6-7(3) 6-3 7-6(4). The world number one will require a victory over in-form Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas on Friday to have a chance of reaching the semi-finals. Tsitsipas, 21, is definitely there though after thrashing Alexander Zverev 6-3 6-2 in the evening match. Nadal looked beaten as 23-year-old debutant Medvedev broke serve twice in the decider to stand on the brink of a first career victory over the Spaniard he pushed to five sets in an epic US Open final in September. For once world number one Nadal's trademark fighting spirit seemed to have ebbed away but he saved a match point at 1-5 with a superb drop shot and was suddenly re-energised. Twice Medvedev served for the match, at 5-2 and 5-4, but he tightened up and world number one Nadal, roared on by the 02 Arena crowd, needed no second invitation to take advantage. Nadal has never won the ATP Finals title, the only gap on a CV that includes 19 Grand Slam titles and Olympic gold. He was beaten by German defending champion Zverev for the first time on Monday in his opening round-robin match and defeat by Medvedev, who he had also never lost to before, would have left him on the brink of elimination. After an astonishing recovery, however, he will go into his final group game against Tsitsipas with everything to play for as he bids to not only win the title for the first time but also seal the year-end world number one ranking. Nadal arrived in London with concerns over an abdominal injury, but even when not at his sharpest he remains one of the hardest players on Tour to finish off. "Honestly I've been super lucky," he said on court. "For Daniil it's a tough loss. He was playing much better than me in the third set of course but it was one of these days when you have a one in a thousand chance to win." The deceptively powerful Medvedev dropped only six points on serve in the opening set and comfortably bagged the tiebreak. His focus dipped at the start of the second though, allowing Nadal a quick break and when the Spaniard broke again to take the set it seemed the momentum was with him. Medvedev played superbly in the deciding set though, until 5-1. A dreadful Nadal backhand slice gave the Russian a first break and when he chased down a drop shot to flick a winner past Nadal on his way to a 4-0 lead he was in command. But from 1-5 down Nadal reeled off five straight games and when Medvedev trailed 0-30 at 5-6 he seemed to be a spent force. Medvedev regained his composure in the nick of time to hold serve with an ace and looked dangerous again in the tiebreak. But he missed an easy forehand at 4-5 to give Nadal two match points and then a backhand went agonisingly wide to hand the Spaniard one of the most remarkable wins of his career. "Rafa could say, okay, it's over at 5-1 and just give me the point, but we all know Rafa is not about this," Medvedev said. The maths of the group means a straight-sets win for Medvedev over Zverev could see him progress to the semis. Nadal's tournament fate is not in his own hands though. He must beat Tsitsipas and hope that Medvedev beats Zverev. Even if he does not reach the semis, Nadal tightened his grip on the number one ranking as Novak Djokovic now must win the title to have a chance of overtaking him. Djokovic faces Roger Federer on Thursday in a must-win match for both players.

ATP Finals: Rafael Nadal roars back from brink to beat Medvedev

Stefanos Tsitsipas celebrated victory over fellow ATP Finals debutant Daniil Medvedev like he had won the title on Monday as he finally snapped a jinx against his Russian bogeyman.

Tsitsipas, the first Greek player to qualify for the season-ender, had lost all five previous matches against Medvedev but he turned the tables in impressive fashion.

His 7-6(5) 6-4 win leaves the swashbuckling 21-year-old well-placed to challenge for a place in the semi-finals and the fact that he beat U.S. Open runner-up Medvedev appears to have made his O2 Arena bow extra sweet.

With contrasting styles and feisty demeanours both are tipped to win Grand Slam titles and the fact there appears to be 'bad chemistry' between them bodes well for the box office.

"It means more than extra. It's a victory that I craved for a long time now, and it's great that I came in at this moment," world number six Tsitsipas, told reporters.

"He's a tough player. He's a very difficult player to face. He's not giving you an easy time when you're out on the court. So it definitely means a lot."

Medvedev, 23, went on an incredible streak after Wimbledon this year, reaching six successive finals including at Flushing Meadow where he extended <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-finals-alexander-zverev-tastes-first-victory-over-rafael-nadal-261539">Rafael Nadal</a> in a five-set thriller.

His form has cooled since then and although he raised his level against Tsitsipas the momentum was always with the Greek whose free-flowing, all-court style proved popular with the large afternoon crowd in London.

Playing the more adventurous tennis, Tsitsipas earned a set point in the opening tiebreak with a nerveless volley onto the sideline and converted when Medvedev netted a forehand.

World number four Medvedev saved three break points at 3-3 in the second but an error of judgement at 4-4 gave Tsitsipas another break point chance which this time he converted.

Tsitsipas claimed victory with a smash.

Medvedev played down suggestions that losing to Tsitsipas for the first time stung more, saying he was happy with the way he played after some poor form in the lead-up.

"He was better today, but I felt like I was missing some things," Medvedev said. "That would frustrate me against any other opponent. Of course, I wanted to make it even bigger head-to-head, but it's the way it is."

With fans and media craving new rivalries to carry the game forward when the sun sets on the golden age of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-finals-federer-up-against-it-after-thiem-defeat-261316">Roger Federer</a>, Nadal and Novak Djokovic, it is understandable that any potential bad blood between players is seized upon.

Tsistipas was asked outright why he does not like Medvedev.

"That's a strong statement, I never said I don't like him," he said before describing an incident in a match against Medvedev in Miami last year when words were exchanged.

"I mean, our chemistry definitely isn't the best that you can find on the tour," he said. "It just happens with people that it's not that you can just like everyone.

"It's not that I hate him. I guess as he said, we will not go to dinner together. I respect him, for sure."

Later in the Andre Agassi group world number one Rafael Nadal faces defending champion Alexander Zverev.

Stefanos Tsitsipas celebrated victory over fellow ATP Finals debutant Daniil Medvedev like he had won the title on Monday as he finally snapped a jinx against his Russian bogeyman.

Stefanos Tsitsipas celebrated victory over fellow ATP Finals debutant Daniil Medvedev like he had won the title on Monday as he finally snapped a jinx against his Russian bogeyman. Tsitsipas, the first Greek player to qualify for the season-ender, had lost all five previous matches against Medvedev but he turned the tables in impressive fashion. His 7-6(5) 6-4 win leaves the swashbuckling 21-year-old well-placed to challenge for a place in the semi-finals and the fact that he beat U.S. Open runner-up Medvedev appears to have made his O2 Arena bow extra sweet. With contrasting styles and feisty demeanours both are tipped to win Grand Slam titles and the fact there appears to be 'bad chemistry' between them bodes well for the box office. "It means more than extra. It's a victory that I craved for a long time now, and it's great that I came in at this moment," world number six Tsitsipas, told reporters. "He's a tough player. He's a very difficult player to face. He's not giving you an easy time when you're out on the court. So it definitely means a lot." Medvedev, 23, went on an incredible streak after Wimbledon this year, reaching six successive finals including at Flushing Meadow where he extended Rafael Nadal in a five-set thriller. His form has cooled since then and although he raised his level against Tsitsipas the momentum was always with the Greek whose free-flowing, all-court style proved popular with the large afternoon crowd in London. Playing the more adventurous tennis, Tsitsipas earned a set point in the opening tiebreak with a nerveless volley onto the sideline and converted when Medvedev netted a forehand. World number four Medvedev saved three break points at 3-3 in the second but an error of judgement at 4-4 gave Tsitsipas another break point chance which this time he converted. Tsitsipas claimed victory with a smash. Medvedev played down suggestions that losing to Tsitsipas for the first time stung more, saying he was happy with the way he played after some poor form in the lead-up. "He was better today, but I felt like I was missing some things," Medvedev said. "That would frustrate me against any other opponent. Of course, I wanted to make it even bigger head-to-head, but it's the way it is." With fans and media craving new rivalries to carry the game forward when the sun sets on the golden age of Roger Federer, Nadal and Novak Djokovic, it is understandable that any potential bad blood between players is seized upon. Tsistipas was asked outright why he does not like Medvedev. "That's a strong statement, I never said I don't like him," he said before describing an incident in a match against Medvedev in Miami last year when words were exchanged. "I mean, our chemistry definitely isn't the best that you can find on the tour," he said. "It just happens with people that it's not that you can just like everyone. "It's not that I hate him. I guess as he said, we will not go to dinner together. I respect him, for sure." Later in the Andre Agassi group world number one Rafael Nadal faces defending champion Alexander Zverev.

ATP Finals: Tsitsipas gets win he craved over Medvedev

It proved quite a day for ending losing streaks at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-finals-djokovic-thrashes-berrettini-thiem-stuns-federer-261312">ATP Finals </a>on Monday as Alexander Zverev tasted a first victory over Rafael&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;after Stefanos Tsitsipas got the better of Russian bogeyman Daniil Medvedev.

Both Zverev and Tsitsipas walked out on the huge O2 Arena with 0-5 career records against their opponents but they turned the tables with a couple of dazzling displays.

Tsitsipas beat Medvedev 7-6(5) 6-4 before Germany's Zverev, the surprise title winner last year, thumped an out-of-kilter&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;6-2 6-4 to seal a rare hat-trick.

He might not have won a Grand Slam title yet but after beating <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-finals-federer-up-against-it-after-thiem-defeat-261316">Roger Federer</a> and Novak Djokovic in the semi-final and final last year, he opened his defence by outplaying&nbsp;Nadal.

The Spaniard, who took his major haul to 19 this year, has a patchy record at the tournament. He has never won the title, appeared only eight times despite qualifying on 15 occasions and on his last visit, in 2017, withdrew injured.

The world number one refused to blame an abdominal strain picked up this month in Paris for his poor showing.

"It was not a problem with the abdominal at all," the 33-year-old&nbsp;Nadal, who will face Medvedev in his second round-robin match in a repeat of the US&nbsp;Open final, told reporters.

"I did not feel pain. We can find reasons or excuses, but at the end of the day, all that really matters is I need to play much better in two days.

"I needed my best competitive spirit today, and I was not there in that way."

Zverev, 22, has salvaged what initially looked like being a poor year with a late-season flourish to qualify for the showpiece and he produced a confident display to dominate.

Serving regularly at 140mph and crunching angled groundstrokes, he gave&nbsp;Nadal's abdominals a thorough workout.

He took control by breaking in the fifth game and repeated the feat two games later when&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;blazed a wild forehand wide.

Some scintillating net play earned the German another break at the start of the second set. He stayed rock solid thereafter, not giving&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;even a sniff of a chance to make a comeback.

"It is obviously great," said the world number seven. "Everyone knows how much I have struggled the whole season. It means so much to be playing here again where I won my biggest title last season. It means everything to me."

In terms of&nbsp;Nadal's hopes of sealing the ATP year-end top ranking for a fifth time, nothing has changed.

He arrived in London with a 640-point lead over Djokovic. With 200 points for each group win, Djokovic cut that deficit on Sunday by thrashing Italian Matteo Berrettini.

Even if&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;suffered a recurrence of the injury or lost all of his group matches, Djokovic must still reach the final to overtake the Spaniard and match Pete Sampras's record of finishing a year as number one on six occasions.

Earlier on Monday a large crowd were treated to a high-quality duel between two players seemingly destined to be vying with Zverev for the games biggest prizes.

Tsitsipas gave a swashbuckling display against Medvedev in the first opening round-robin match between two debutants since 2007 and celebrated like he had won the title, a reaction perhaps born out of past friction between the two young guns.

"It means more than extra. It's a victory that I craved for a long time now," the 21-year-old Tsitsipas, the first Greek to qualify for the eight-man tournament, told reporters.

"Our chemistry definitely isn't the best that you can find on the Tour. It just happens with people that it's not that you can just like everyone." Tsitsipas plays Zverev on Wednesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-djokovic-has-world-number-one-nadal-in-his-sights-at-london-finale-260669">Five-time champion Djokovic</a> can close the gap further on&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;on Tuesday when he takes on Austrian Dominic Thiem.

It proved quite a day for ending losing streaks at the ATP Finals on Monday as Alexander Zverev tasted a first victory over Rafael Nadal after Stefanos Tsitsipas got the better of Russian bogeyman Daniil Medvedev.

It proved quite a day for ending losing streaks at the ATP Finals on Monday as Alexander Zverev tasted a first victory over Rafael Nadal after Stefanos Tsitsipas got the better of Russian bogeyman Daniil Medvedev. Both Zverev and Tsitsipas walked out on the huge O2 Arena with 0-5 career records against their opponents but they turned the tables with a couple of dazzling displays. Tsitsipas beat Medvedev 7-6(5) 6-4 before Germany's Zverev, the surprise title winner last year, thumped an out-of-kilter Nadal 6-2 6-4 to seal a rare hat-trick. He might not have won a Grand Slam title yet but after beating Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic in the semi-final and final last year, he opened his defence by outplaying Nadal. The Spaniard, who took his major haul to 19 this year, has a patchy record at the tournament. He has never won the title, appeared only eight times despite qualifying on 15 occasions and on his last visit, in 2017, withdrew injured. The world number one refused to blame an abdominal strain picked up this month in Paris for his poor showing. "It was not a problem with the abdominal at all," the 33-year-old Nadal, who will face Medvedev in his second round-robin match in a repeat of the US Open final, told reporters. "I did not feel pain. We can find reasons or excuses, but at the end of the day, all that really matters is I need to play much better in two days. "I needed my best competitive spirit today, and I was not there in that way." Zverev, 22, has salvaged what initially looked like being a poor year with a late-season flourish to qualify for the showpiece and he produced a confident display to dominate. Serving regularly at 140mph and crunching angled groundstrokes, he gave Nadal's abdominals a thorough workout. He took control by breaking in the fifth game and repeated the feat two games later when Nadal blazed a wild forehand wide. Some scintillating net play earned the German another break at the start of the second set. He stayed rock solid thereafter, not giving Nadal even a sniff of a chance to make a comeback. "It is obviously great," said the world number seven. "Everyone knows how much I have struggled the whole season. It means so much to be playing here again where I won my biggest title last season. It means everything to me." In terms of Nadal's hopes of sealing the ATP year-end top ranking for a fifth time, nothing has changed. He arrived in London with a 640-point lead over Djokovic. With 200 points for each group win, Djokovic cut that deficit on Sunday by thrashing Italian Matteo Berrettini. Even if Nadal suffered a recurrence of the injury or lost all of his group matches, Djokovic must still reach the final to overtake the Spaniard and match Pete Sampras's record of finishing a year as number one on six occasions. Earlier on Monday a large crowd were treated to a high-quality duel between two players seemingly destined to be vying with Zverev for the games biggest prizes. Tsitsipas gave a swashbuckling display against Medvedev in the first opening round-robin match between two debutants since 2007 and celebrated like he had won the title, a reaction perhaps born out of past friction between the two young guns. "It means more than extra. It's a victory that I craved for a long time now," the 21-year-old Tsitsipas, the first Greek to qualify for the eight-man tournament, told reporters. "Our chemistry definitely isn't the best that you can find on the Tour. It just happens with people that it's not that you can just like everyone." Tsitsipas plays Zverev on Wednesday. Five-time champion Djokovic can close the gap further on Nadal on Tuesday when he takes on Austrian Dominic Thiem.

ATP Finals: Alexander Zverev tastes first victory over Rafael Nadal

If Novak Djokovic is to claim the year-end number ranking for a record-equalling sixth time he will have to do it the hard way at the ATP Finals next week in London.

The Serb was knocked off<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-once-again-claims-no-1-spot-in-rankings-novak-djokovic-slips-259888"> top spot by Rafael Nadal</a> on Monday despite winning the Paris Masters last week and will need a strong finish alongside the River Thames to snatch it back.

Only Pete Sampras has finished a year on top six times and Djokovic's hopes of emulating the American are not in his own hands with Nadal leading by 640 points heading to the climax.

Nadal, 33, is bidding to become the ATP's oldest year-end number but with 200 points awarded for round-robin wins, 400 for a semi-final win and 500 for winning the final the door is still ajar for Djokovic to deny him.

Spaniard Nadal has often struggled physically in London and pulled out of his Paris Masters semi-final against Denis Shapovalov last week citing an abdominal issue when victory would have put him virtually out of reach.

He intends to play in London having been drawn in a round-robin group alongside 2018 ATP Finals champion Alexander Zverev and debutants Daniil Medvedev and Stefanos Tsitsipas.

If Nadal fails to win a round-robin match, Djokovic would still need to win two group matches and reach the final to dislodge him. Djokovic will also finish the year as number one by winning the title, providing Nadal does not reach the semis.

Djokovic faces a tough group though, with six-time champion <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-brushes-de-minaur-aside-to-claim-record-10th-basel-title-258408">Roger Federer</a>, French Open runner-up Dominic Thiem and Italian Matteo Berrettini, the third newcomer in this year's event, who he will play in Sunday's opening singles.

"It's an extremely difficult task considering who my opponents are going to be," Australian Open and Wimbledon champion Djokovic said.

"As a consequence, if I manage to get the year-end number one, that would be fantastic. It is a motivation and a goal every day."

Federer, ranked third, will be a particularly dangerous obstacle for Djokovic even if he has not added to his ATP Finals title haul since winning in 2011.

The Swiss, who has a record 57 match wins at the event, bowed out to Zverev in the semi-finals last year but continues to defy the passing years at the age of 38.

Last month he claimed the Swiss indoor title without dropping a set. It was his fourth title in 2019, during which he lost an epic Wimbledon final to Djokovic having held match points.

The penultimate ATP Finals in London, before it moves to Turin, has a fresh look this year.

Russian counter-puncher Medvedev has enjoyed an incredible breakthrough year and of the three debutants he looks the most likely to challenge for the title.

He leads the charts in terms of match wins (59) and finals reached (9) and against Nadal in a sensational US&nbsp;Open final proved he has the personality to go toe-to-toe with the giants.

For the fourth successive year there are eight different nations represented in the singles while half of the singles field are aged 23 or under. The new wave is arriving, but Djokovic still has unfinished business.

Colombian duo Juan Sebastian Cabal and Robert Farah will lead the doubles event having already clinched the year-end number one ranking and will be seeking a London double after winning this year's Wimbledon crown.

If Novak Djokovic is to claim the year-end number ranking for a record-equalling sixth time he will have to do it the hard way at the ATP Finals next week in London.

If Novak Djokovic is to claim the year-end number ranking for a record-equalling sixth time he will have to do it the hard way at the ATP Finals next week in London. The Serb was knocked off top spot by Rafael Nadal on Monday despite winning the Paris Masters last week and will need a strong finish alongside the River Thames to snatch it back. Only Pete Sampras has finished a year on top six times and Djokovic's hopes of emulating the American are not in his own hands with Nadal leading by 640 points heading to the climax. Nadal, 33, is bidding to become the ATP's oldest year-end number but with 200 points awarded for round-robin wins, 400 for a semi-final win and 500 for winning the final the door is still ajar for Djokovic to deny him. Spaniard Nadal has often struggled physically in London and pulled out of his Paris Masters semi-final against Denis Shapovalov last week citing an abdominal issue when victory would have put him virtually out of reach. He intends to play in London having been drawn in a round-robin group alongside 2018 ATP Finals champion Alexander Zverev and debutants Daniil Medvedev and Stefanos Tsitsipas. If Nadal fails to win a round-robin match, Djokovic would still need to win two group matches and reach the final to dislodge him. Djokovic will also finish the year as number one by winning the title, providing Nadal does not reach the semis. Djokovic faces a tough group though, with six-time champion Roger Federer, French Open runner-up Dominic Thiem and Italian Matteo Berrettini, the third newcomer in this year's event, who he will play in Sunday's opening singles. "It's an extremely difficult task considering who my opponents are going to be," Australian Open and Wimbledon champion Djokovic said. "As a consequence, if I manage to get the year-end number one, that would be fantastic. It is a motivation and a goal every day." Federer, ranked third, will be a particularly dangerous obstacle for Djokovic even if he has not added to his ATP Finals title haul since winning in 2011. The Swiss, who has a record 57 match wins at the event, bowed out to Zverev in the semi-finals last year but continues to defy the passing years at the age of 38. Last month he claimed the Swiss indoor title without dropping a set. It was his fourth title in 2019, during which he lost an epic Wimbledon final to Djokovic having held match points. The penultimate ATP Finals in London, before it moves to Turin, has a fresh look this year. Russian counter-puncher Medvedev has enjoyed an incredible breakthrough year and of the three debutants he looks the most likely to challenge for the title. He leads the charts in terms of match wins (59) and finals reached (9) and against Nadal in a sensational US Open final proved he has the personality to go toe-to-toe with the giants. For the fourth successive year there are eight different nations represented in the singles while half of the singles field are aged 23 or under. The new wave is arriving, but Djokovic still has unfinished business. Colombian duo Juan Sebastian Cabal and Robert Farah will lead the doubles event having already clinched the year-end number one ranking and will be seeking a London double after winning this year's Wimbledon crown.

Tennis: Djokovic has world number one Nadal in his sights at London finale

Rafael Nadal has said he will travel to the ATP finals in London after undergoing a scan on an abdominal injury that forced him to retire from last week's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-masters-nadal-marches-on-in-paris-djokovic-also-reaches-quarters-259155">Paris Masters</a> at the semi-final stage.

"Yesterday I had a scan in Mallorca and despite having a small strain in my right abdominal, I will travel to London," the world number one said in a statement on his official Twitter account on Tuesday.

"On Thursday or Friday I will start training on my serve and my aim is to be able to play the ATP Finals in London. Thanks for your support."

Even though he withdrew from his semi-final tie with Denis Shapovalov, Nadal's run to the last four in Paris saw him reclaim the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-once-again-claims-no-1-spot-in-rankings-novak-djokovic-slips-259888">number one spot</a> from Novak Djokovic on Monday.

The ATP finals take place between November&nbsp;10-17. Nadal has never won the tournament, losing in the final to Roger Federer in 2010 and Djokovic in 2013, when it was known as the ATP World Tour finals.

Rafael Nadal has said he will travel to the ATP finals in London after undergoing a scan on an abdominal injury that forced him to retire from last week's Paris Masters at the semi-final stage.

Rafael Nadal has said he will travel to the ATP finals in London after undergoing a scan on an abdominal injury that forced him to retire from last week's Paris Masters at the semi-final stage. "Yesterday I had a scan in Mallorca and despite having a small strain in my right abdominal, I will travel to London," the world number one said in a statement on his official Twitter account on Tuesday. "On Thursday or Friday I will start training on my serve and my aim is to be able to play the ATP Finals in London. Thanks for your support." Even though he withdrew from his semi-final tie with Denis Shapovalov, Nadal's run to the last four in Paris saw him reclaim the number one spot from Novak Djokovic on Monday. The ATP finals take place between November 10-17. Nadal has never won the tournament, losing in the final to Roger Federer in 2010 and Djokovic in 2013, when it was known as the ATP World Tour finals.

Tennis: Rafael Nadal to travel to ATP finals despite injury

Tennis giant Rafael Nadal once again became the number one ranked tennis player after he dethroned his rival Novak Djokovic. The Serbian could not hold the top spot despite winning his fifth&nbsp;Paris Masters title on Sunday.&nbsp;

“I'm super happy with my season,” said Nadal, <a href="https://www.atptour.com/en/news/nadal-returns-to-no-1-november-2019">reports ATP</a>. He added that the start of this season was very challenging but the way he played his tennis this year made him extremely proud.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Djokovic came down to the second spot as he loses the points that he won a year ago in London when Nadal was absent.&nbsp;

Both Nadal and Djokovic had a phenomenal run this season with both superstars winning two grand slams apiece. On one hand, Nadal claimed&nbsp;French and US Opens, while Djokovic triumphed in the Australian Open and Wimbledon.&nbsp;

The 33-year-old became the second-oldest player in the ATP Rankings history to reach atop since 1973. This is the eighth time Nadal became number 1 in ATP rankings and his previous stint ended exactly the same day one year ago.&nbsp;

With this feat, Nadal equaled the mark of Ivan Lendl and only the likes of John McEnroe (14)&nbsp; Pete Sampras (11), and&nbsp;Jimmy Connors (9) are ahead of him.&nbsp;

However, Djokovic might spoil Nadal's dreams of ending 2019 with top spot if the Spaniard fails to play or win a round-robin match at ATP Tour Finals and the Serbian making to the finals.&nbsp;

Nadal, who was unable to play a full season in 2018, had an outstanding 2019 as he managed to win four trophies including the historic 12th Rolland Garros and the fourth US Open. He also reached the finals of the Australian Open where he was defeated by Djokovic.&nbsp;

In the men's rankings, Gael Monfils returns to the top 10 for the first time since February 2017 after reaching the semi-finals in Paris while 20-year-old Shapovalov climbs 13 places to his highest ranking, 15.

The latest ATP rankings are as follows:&nbsp;

1. Rafael Nadal&nbsp;

2. Novak Djokovic&nbsp;

3. Roger Federer

4. Daniil Medvedev&nbsp;

5. Dominic Thiem&nbsp;

6. Stefanos Tsitsipas&nbsp;

7. Alexander Zverev&nbsp;

8. Matteo Berrettini&nbsp;

9. Roberto Bautista&nbsp;

10. Gaël Monfils&nbsp;

11. David Goffin&nbsp;

12. Fabio Fognini&nbsp;

13. Kei Nishikori&nbsp;

14. Diego Schwartzman&nbsp;

15. Denis Shapovalov&nbsp;

16. Stan Wawrinka&nbsp;

17. Karen Khachanov&nbsp;

18. Alex De Minaur

19. John Isner&nbsp;

20. Grigor Dimitrov&nbsp;

Tennis giant Rafael Nadal once again became the number one ranked tennis player after he dethroned his rival Novak Djokovic. The Serbian could not hold the top spot despite winning his fifth Paris Masters title on Sunday.

Tennis giant Rafael Nadal once again became the number one ranked tennis player after he dethroned his rival Novak Djokovic. The Serbian could not hold the top spot despite winning his fifth Paris Masters title on Sunday. “I'm super happy with my season,” said Nadal, reports ATP. He added that the start of this season was very challenging but the way he played his tennis this year made him extremely proud. Djokovic came down to the second spot as he loses the points that he won a year ago in London when Nadal was absent. Both Nadal and Djokovic had a phenomenal run this season with both superstars winning two grand slams apiece. On one hand, Nadal claimed French and US Opens, while Djokovic triumphed in the Australian Open and Wimbledon. The 33-year-old became the second-oldest player in the ATP Rankings history to reach atop since 1973. This is the eighth time Nadal became number 1 in ATP rankings and his previous stint ended exactly the same day one year ago. With this feat, Nadal equaled the mark of Ivan Lendl and only the likes of John McEnroe (14) Pete Sampras (11), and Jimmy Connors (9) are ahead of him. However, Djokovic might spoil Nadal's dreams of ending 2019 with top spot if the Spaniard fails to play or win a round-robin match at ATP Tour Finals and the Serbian making to the finals. Nadal, who was unable to play a full season in 2018, had an outstanding 2019 as he managed to win four trophies including the historic 12th Rolland Garros and the fourth US Open. He also reached the finals of the Australian Open where he was defeated by Djokovic. In the men's rankings, Gael Monfils returns to the top 10 for the first time since February 2017 after reaching the semi-finals in Paris while 20-year-old Shapovalov climbs 13 places to his highest ranking, 15. The latest ATP rankings are as follows: 1. Rafael Nadal 2. Novak Djokovic 3. Roger Federer 4. Daniil Medvedev 5. Dominic Thiem 6. Stefanos Tsitsipas 7. Alexander Zverev 8. Matteo Berrettini 9. Roberto Bautista 10. Gaël Monfils 11. David Goffin 12. Fabio Fognini 13. Kei Nishikori 14. Diego Schwartzman 15. Denis Shapovalov 16. Stan Wawrinka 17. Karen Khachanov 18. Alex De Minaur 19. John Isner 20. Grigor Dimitrov

Rafael Nadal once again claims No 1 spot in rankings, Novak Djokovic slips

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