Barcelona and Argentina striker Lionel Messi dethroned five-division boxing world champion Floyd Mayweather as the highest paid athlete over the past year, according to the annual list published by business magazine Forbes on Tuesday.

Messi, who scored 36 goals while leading Barcelona to the La Liga title this year, earned $127 million between his salary and endorsements to move up one spot on the list of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-cricketer-virat-kohli-among-worlds-highest-paid-athletes-forbes-226362">world's 100 highest-paid athletes.</a>

Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo ($109 million), Paris Saint-Germain forward <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-lawyer-for-neymars-rape-accuser-considers-dropping-case-report-225793&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjqkOKanOPiAhXimeYKHensAMkQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2yI47Q2cgoHHA1b3-ROdaW">Neymar </a>($105 million), Mexican boxer Canelo Alvarez ($94 million) and Swiss tennis great Roger Federer ($93.4 million) rounded out the top five.

Mayweather, who topped the list in 2018 and four times in seven years, only had an exhibition match last December in Japan and did not crack the top 100, which is comprised of athletes from 10 different sports.

Players from the National Basketball Association led all sports with 35 players among the top 100, none higher than Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James who was ranked eighth with total earnings of $89 million.

American football was the next most-represented sport with 19 players, followed by baseball with 15, and soccer with 12.

According to Forbes, the highest-paid athletes of its list collectively earned $4 billion over the last 12 months, up 5% from last year's earnings of $3.8 billion.

Forbes also said Americans dominate the list with 62 athletes, which it credits to sky-high salaries in the major sports leagues.

The United Kingdom has five athletes, France and Spain have three, while Brazil, Canada, the Dominican Republic, Germany, Serbia and Venezuela all have two.

Barcelona and Argentina striker Lionel Messi dethroned five-division boxing world champion Floyd Mayweather as the highest paid athlete over the past year, according to the annual list published by business magazine Forbes on Tuesday.

Barcelona and Argentina striker Lionel Messi dethroned five-division boxing world champion Floyd Mayweather as the highest paid athlete over the past year, according to the annual list published by business magazine Forbes on Tuesday. Messi, who scored 36 goals while leading Barcelona to the La Liga title this year, earned $127 million between his salary and endorsements to move up one spot on the list of the world's 100 highest-paid athletes. Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo ($109 million), Paris Saint-Germain forward Neymar ($105 million), Mexican boxer Canelo Alvarez ($94 million) and Swiss tennis great Roger Federer ($93.4 million) rounded out the top five. Mayweather, who topped the list in 2018 and four times in seven years, only had an exhibition match last December in Japan and did not crack the top 100, which is comprised of athletes from 10 different sports. Players from the National Basketball Association led all sports with 35 players among the top 100, none higher than Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James who was ranked eighth with total earnings of $89 million. American football was the next most-represented sport with 19 players, followed by baseball with 15, and soccer with 12. According to Forbes, the highest-paid athletes of its list collectively earned $4 billion over the last 12 months, up 5% from last year's earnings of $3.8 billion. Forbes also said Americans dominate the list with 62 athletes, which it credits to sky-high salaries in the major sports leagues. The United Kingdom has five athletes, France and Spain have three, while Brazil, Canada, the Dominican Republic, Germany, Serbia and Venezuela all have two.

Lionel Messi tops Forbes list of 'highest-paid athletes', beats Ronaldo, Neymar

Lionel Messi beats Cristiano Ronaldo in Forbes top 100, Virat Kohli only Indian in list

Novak Djokovic's hope of winning a fourth straight Grand Slam title was in jeopardy at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-rafael-nadal-beats-roger-federer-to-reach-12th-final-225296">French Open</a> on Friday when rain interrupted his semi-final against Austrian Dominic Thiem.

The 32-year-old Serb will return to court at midday on Saturday trailing 6-2, 3-6, 3-1 and with plenty of work to do if he is to get a crack at Rafael Nadal in the final.

Top seed Djokovic is bidding to become the first man in the professional era to twice hold the four big prizes in tennis simultaneously, having also done so in 2016.

In gusty winds, Thiem's powerful groundstrokes helped him dominate the first set and Djokovic was in trouble early in the second when he fended off a break point.

He got the crucial break in the eighth game of the second set, however, when a Thiem forehand kissed the net cord and flew long and Djokovic levelled the match.

With dark clouds closing in Thiem broke serve with a huge forehand early in the third, shortly before the rain started again.

Play was eventually cancelled for the day about 50 minutes later despite no rain falling -- leading to criticism from former <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-ashleigh-barty-marketa-vondrousova-shrug-off-sexism-row-to-reach-their-maiden-final-225269">French Open</a> champion and pundit Jim Courier.

"This is going to sting. These conditions are very difficult for Novak, these are very advantageous for Dominic Thiem," the American, commentating for ITV, said.

"(Rafael) Nadal and (Roger) Federer came ready to accept the conditions and so did Thiem. But Novak came ready to not like them. The happiest person right now would be Novak on his way back home,"&nbsp;Courier said.

Tournament director Guy Forget denied suggestions that Djokovic had left the grounds before play was postponed.

"I do not know who left first, but the two players were told exactly at the same time. They looked at each other and said 'OK',"&nbsp;Forget said.

The semi-final will resume at 1200 local time (1000GMT) on Saturday, organisers said.

With 11-times champion Nadal safely through, organisers said they still hope for a Sunday finish.

Nadal beat Roger Federer in straight sets in the first semi when strong winds also hampered the players.

Novak Djokovic's hope of winning a fourth straight Grand Slam title was in jeopardy at the French Open on Friday when rain interrupted his semi-final against Austrian Dominic Thiem.

Novak Djokovic's hope of winning a fourth straight Grand Slam title was in jeopardy at the French Open on Friday when rain interrupted his semi-final against Austrian Dominic Thiem. The 32-year-old Serb will return to court at midday on Saturday trailing 6-2, 3-6, 3-1 and with plenty of work to do if he is to get a crack at Rafael Nadal in the final. Top seed Djokovic is bidding to become the first man in the professional era to twice hold the four big prizes in tennis simultaneously, having also done so in 2016. In gusty winds, Thiem's powerful groundstrokes helped him dominate the first set and Djokovic was in trouble early in the second when he fended off a break point. He got the crucial break in the eighth game of the second set, however, when a Thiem forehand kissed the net cord and flew long and Djokovic levelled the match. With dark clouds closing in Thiem broke serve with a huge forehand early in the third, shortly before the rain started again. Play was eventually cancelled for the day about 50 minutes later despite no rain falling -- leading to criticism from former French Open champion and pundit Jim Courier. "This is going to sting. These conditions are very difficult for Novak, these are very advantageous for Dominic Thiem," the American, commentating for ITV, said. "(Rafael) Nadal and (Roger) Federer came ready to accept the conditions and so did Thiem. But Novak came ready to not like them. The happiest person right now would be Novak on his way back home," Courier said. Tournament director Guy Forget denied suggestions that Djokovic had left the grounds before play was postponed. "I do not know who left first, but the two players were told exactly at the same time. They looked at each other and said 'OK'," Forget said. The semi-final will resume at 1200 local time (1000GMT) on Saturday, organisers said. With 11-times champion Nadal safely through, organisers said they still hope for a Sunday finish. Nadal beat Roger Federer in straight sets in the first semi when strong winds also hampered the players.

French Open: Thiem leads, Djokovic in trouble as rain stops play at semi-final

The<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-to-face-dominic-thiem-in-his-ninth-roland-garros-semi-final-225086"> French Open</a> was plunged into a sexism row on Thursday after the decision to move the women's semi-finals away from the tournament's showpiece court was blasted as "unfair, inappropriate" and "shameful".

After torrential rain washed out all of Wednesday's play, the last two women's quarter-finals were played Thursday with the semi-finals pushed back a day until Friday.

However, the semi-final between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-australias-ashleigh-barty-outplays-madison-keys-reaches-her-first-semi-finals-225046">Ashleigh Barty</a> and&nbsp;Amanda Anisimova will be played on Court Suzanne Lenglen while Johanna Konta's match with Marketa Vondrousova has been shifted to the smaller 5,000-seater Court Simonne-Mathieu.

The men's semis between Roger Federer against Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic taking on Dominic Thiem will be played on the main, 15,000-seat Court Philippe Chatrier as planned.

"We are extremely disappointed by the scheduling of both women's semi-finals on outside courts," said WTA chief executive Steve Simon.

"The four women who have played so well and made it this far have earned their right to play on the biggest stage. We believe other solutions were possible which would have been to the benefit of fans as well as all players," Simon said.

Both women's semi-finals were originally scheduled for Thursday on the rebuilt Chatrier Court with the final on Saturday.

Men's semi-finals day is Friday and Sunday is the traditional day for their championship match.

But Wednesday's washout, which also saw two men's quarter-finals played a day late on Thursday, caused havoc with the schedule.

Complicating the picture further is the threat of more rain on Friday, raising the prospect of the women's final being moved to Sunday and the men's to Monday.

'Lack of respect'

Tournament director Guy Forget had admitted that moving the women's semi-finals to smaller courts could be seen as controversial.

"You're afraid that some players might feel that it's a lack of respect or we are just trying to diminish it -- no," he said.

"Ideally, when you see historically what has happened in the tournament, we try to be fair to everyone," Forget added.

However, France's former world number one and two-time major winner Amelie Mauresmo blasted the decision to shift the women's semi-finals.

"It is shameful for our tournament," tweeted the 49-year-old.

"Everyone agrees that the match of the day is Federer/Nadal.&nbsp;But what message are we sending by taking the decision to put the two women's semi-finals on at 11 a.m. on the second and third courts? No match on the centre court?"&nbsp;

Mauresmo believes that the men's and women's semi-finals should be split between Chatrier and the 10,000-capacity Lenglen.

"It's simple to open Lenglen and Chatrier and have the two women's matches at 1 p.m. followed by the two men's,"&nbsp;Mauresmo said.

Anisimova, just 17, and the youngest player to reach a Grand Slam semi-final since Nicole Vaidisova at the 2007 Australian Open said she had no objections to playing on a smaller court.

"Neither of them on Chatrier? I didn't know that," said the teenager when first told that she would not be playing on the main court.

"Actually, I'm really happy that I get to play tomorrow," added the American, who is the first player born in the 2000s to get to the last four of a major.

"I don't have to wait a whole day, because I get really eager to want to go on the court, so I'm happy I get to play tomorrow. They are all beautiful courts,"&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-defending-champion-simona-haleps-run-ended-by-teenager-anisimova-224981">Anisimova </a>said.

Barty, the highest seed left in the tournament at number eight, said it was a shame that her maiden Slam semi-final had been shifted to Lenglen.

"Obviously we would love to play on Chatrier," said the 23-year-old.

"For me, personally, I'm excited to be in a semi-final. It doesn't really matter which court I play on.&nbsp; Yes, of course, we would have loved to play on Chatrier. It's a beautiful court. But in saying that, all four of us will be ready and prepared and go out there and enjoy it,"&nbsp;Barty said.

The French Open was plunged into a sexism row on Thursday after the decision to move the women's semi-finals away from the tournament's showpiece court was blasted as "unfair, inappropriate" and "shameful".

The French Open was plunged into a sexism row on Thursday after the decision to move the women's semi-finals away from the tournament's showpiece court was blasted as "unfair, inappropriate" and "shameful". After torrential rain washed out all of Wednesday's play, the last two women's quarter-finals were played Thursday with the semi-finals pushed back a day until Friday. However, the semi-final between Ashleigh Barty and Amanda Anisimova will be played on Court Suzanne Lenglen while Johanna Konta's match with Marketa Vondrousova has been shifted to the smaller 5,000-seater Court Simonne-Mathieu. The men's semis between Roger Federer against Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic taking on Dominic Thiem will be played on the main, 15,000-seat Court Philippe Chatrier as planned. "We are extremely disappointed by the scheduling of both women's semi-finals on outside courts," said WTA chief executive Steve Simon. "The four women who have played so well and made it this far have earned their right to play on the biggest stage. We believe other solutions were possible which would have been to the benefit of fans as well as all players," Simon said. Both women's semi-finals were originally scheduled for Thursday on the rebuilt Chatrier Court with the final on Saturday. Men's semi-finals day is Friday and Sunday is the traditional day for their championship match. But Wednesday's washout, which also saw two men's quarter-finals played a day late on Thursday, caused havoc with the schedule. Complicating the picture further is the threat of more rain on Friday, raising the prospect of the women's final being moved to Sunday and the men's to Monday. 'Lack of respect' Tournament director Guy Forget had admitted that moving the women's semi-finals to smaller courts could be seen as controversial. "You're afraid that some players might feel that it's a lack of respect or we are just trying to diminish it -- no," he said. "Ideally, when you see historically what has happened in the tournament, we try to be fair to everyone," Forget added. However, France's former world number one and two-time major winner Amelie Mauresmo blasted the decision to shift the women's semi-finals. "It is shameful for our tournament," tweeted the 49-year-old. "Everyone agrees that the match of the day is Federer/Nadal. But what message are we sending by taking the decision to put the two women's semi-finals on at 11 a.m. on the second and third courts? No match on the centre court?" Mauresmo believes that the men's and women's semi-finals should be split between Chatrier and the 10,000-capacity Lenglen. "It's simple to open Lenglen and Chatrier and have the two women's matches at 1 p.m. followed by the two men's," Mauresmo said. Anisimova, just 17, and the youngest player to reach a Grand Slam semi-final since Nicole Vaidisova at the 2007 Australian Open said she had no objections to playing on a smaller court. "Neither of them on Chatrier? I didn't know that," said the teenager when first told that she would not be playing on the main court. "Actually, I'm really happy that I get to play tomorrow," added the American, who is the first player born in the 2000s to get to the last four of a major. "I don't have to wait a whole day, because I get really eager to want to go on the court, so I'm happy I get to play tomorrow. They are all beautiful courts," Anisimova said. Barty, the highest seed left in the tournament at number eight, said it was a shame that her maiden Slam semi-final had been shifted to Lenglen. "Obviously we would love to play on Chatrier," said the 23-year-old. "For me, personally, I'm excited to be in a semi-final. It doesn't really matter which court I play on. Yes, of course, we would have loved to play on Chatrier. It's a beautiful court. But in saying that, all four of us will be ready and prepared and go out there and enjoy it," Barty said.

French Open sinks in 'sexism row' over women's semi-finals switch from show court

French Open sexism row: 'Unfair', 'shameful' shift of women's semi-finals

Defending champion Rafael Nadal powered past Roger Federer in the French Open semi-finals on Friday, claiming his first win over his old rival in five years to move within one victory of a record-extending 12th Roland Garros title.

The 33-year-old produced a masterful performance to get past Federer 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 in the last four on Court Philippe Chatrier and set up a final clash with either world number one Novak Djokovic or Austrian fourth seed Dominic Thiem on Sunday.

Federer had won the last five meetings in their 38-match rivalry, but Nadal got the better of him in the semi-final.

In their five previous meetings at Roland Garros, including four finals, Federer had never managed more than one set.

Nadal will face the winner from the second semi-final between Novak Djokovic and Dominic Thiem in the final on Sunday.

Defending champion Rafael Nadal powered past Roger Federer in the French Open semi-finals on Friday, claiming his first win over his old rival in five years to move within one victory of a record-extending 12th Roland Garros title.

Defending champion Rafael Nadal powered past Roger Federer in the French Open semi-finals on Friday, claiming his first win over his old rival in five years to move within one victory of a record-extending 12th Roland Garros title. The 33-year-old produced a masterful performance to get past Federer 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 in the last four on Court Philippe Chatrier and set up a final clash with either world number one Novak Djokovic or Austrian fourth seed Dominic Thiem on Sunday. Federer had won the last five meetings in their 38-match rivalry, but Nadal got the better of him in the semi-final. In their five previous meetings at Roland Garros, including four finals, Federer had never managed more than one set. Nadal will face the winner from the second semi-final between Novak Djokovic and Dominic Thiem in the final on Sunday.

French Open: Rafael Nadal beats Roger Federer to reach 12th final

French Open 2019: Know all the quarter-finalists of Men's singles

Roger Federer set up a mouthwatering French Open semi-final clash with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-into-12th-roland-garros-semi-final-224354">Rafael Nadal</a> on Tuesday when he defeated Stan Wawrinka in four sets to become the oldest men's Grand Slam semi-finalist in 28 years.

The 37-year-old Swiss beat his compatriot 7-6 (7/4), 4-6, 7-6 (7/5), 6-4 to reach his 43rd major semi-final and eighth at Roland Garros.

He trails his head-to-head record with Nadal 23-15, but has won their last five meetings.

Defending champion Rafael Nadal, bidding for a 12th title at the French Open, blitzed a weary Kei Nishikori 6-1, 6-1, 6-3 in his quarter-final.

"It was hard, really, really hard. Stan played a really good match, I'm very happy to play him here at Roland Garros," said Federer.

The 20-time Grand Slam champion is the oldest man to make the semis at one of the big four tournaments since Jimmy Connors at the 1991 US Open aged 39.

Wawrinka saved 16 of 18 break points in a thrilling encounter, but Federer quickly finished off the match after a rain delay to progress.

Watch Federer's reaction after winning:

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Quelques mots sur la "petite" demi-finale à venir... 😉<a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RG19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RG19</a> <a href="https://t.co/Dd8UXYrgkZ">pic.twitter.com/Dd8UXYrgkZ</a>
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/status/1135960047085850624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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It is the third seed's first appearance at the French Open since 2015 after taking time away from clay to focus on Wimbledon, but he has been in fine form in Paris and has only lost one set so far -- as has Nadal.

Nadal, who turned 33 on Monday, is three behind Federer in the all-time list of Grand Slam singles titles heading into their 39th career clash.

It will be Federer's first Roland Garros semi-final since a defeat by Novak Djokovic in 2012.

Roger Federer set up a mouthwatering French Open semi-final clash with Rafael Nadal on Tuesday when he defeated Stan Wawrinka in four sets to become the oldest men's Grand Slam semi-finalist in 28 years.

Roger Federer set up a mouthwatering French Open semi-final clash with Rafael Nadal on Tuesday when he defeated Stan Wawrinka in four sets to become the oldest men's Grand Slam semi-finalist in 28 years. The 37-year-old Swiss beat his compatriot 7-6 (7/4), 4-6, 7-6 (7/5), 6-4 to reach his 43rd major semi-final and eighth at Roland Garros. He trails his head-to-head record with Nadal 23-15, but has won their last five meetings. Defending champion Rafael Nadal, bidding for a 12th title at the French Open, blitzed a weary Kei Nishikori 6-1, 6-1, 6-3 in his quarter-final. "It was hard, really, really hard. Stan played a really good match, I'm very happy to play him here at Roland Garros," said Federer. The 20-time Grand Slam champion is the oldest man to make the semis at one of the big four tournaments since Jimmy Connors at the 1991 US Open aged 39. Wawrinka saved 16 of 18 break points in a thrilling encounter, but Federer quickly finished off the match after a rain delay to progress. Watch Federer's reaction after winning: Quelques mots sur la "petite" demi-finale à venir... 😉@rogerfederer | #RG19 pic.twitter.com/Dd8UXYrgkZ — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 4, 2019 × It is the third seed's first appearance at the French Open since 2015 after taking time away from clay to focus on Wimbledon, but he has been in fine form in Paris and has only lost one set so far -- as has Nadal. Nadal, who turned 33 on Monday, is three behind Federer in the all-time list of Grand Slam singles titles heading into their 39th career clash. It will be Federer's first Roland Garros semi-final since a defeat by Novak Djokovic in 2012.

Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal to meet in French Open semi-finals

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-eases-into-12th-french-open-quarter-final-223671">Roger Federer</a> said Dominic Thiem was right to be angry at being kicked out of his own press conference so that Roland Garros organisers could accommodate a defeated Serena Williams.

Austria's Thiem, the fourth seed in the men's event and the 2018 runner-up, was conducting his post-match press obligations after reaching the last 16 on Saturday.

However, he was then informed that the main interview room was needed by American superstar Williams who had just suffered a third round loss to Sofia Kenin.

It was the 23-time Grand Slam title winner's earliest exit at a Slam in almost five years and she was eager to be away from the tournament site as quickly as possible.

"It's a joke," fumed 25-year-old Thiem to media officers after being told he should finish his interviews in a smaller room.

"I have to leave the room because she's coming. What the hell, I don't care. I can also do whatever I want."

Watch the video:

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video of Dominic his press <a href="https://t.co/frzKL4iVbY">https://t.co/frzKL4iVbY</a>
— t (@slaycoric) <a href="https://twitter.com/slaycoric/status/1134910695735214081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Federer leapt to the defence of Thiem, describing him as "a superstar, a male superstar".

"I think the one who is still in the tournament gets priority, that's how I see it," said Federer after easing past Leonardo Mayer to reach his 54th quarter-final at the majors.

"There must have been a misunderstanding or maybe they should have kept Serena still in the locker room, not waiting here in the press centre.&nbsp;

"I don't know exactly what happened. I understand Dominic's frustration. I don't think he's mad at Serena or anybody. I just think it was an unfortunate situation."

There was no indication as to who had decided to shift Thiem mid-flow on Saturday night.

However, French sports daily L'Equipe claimed that Williams had no preference over where she carried out her press conference.

"Put me in another room, a smaller one, but now," she was reported to have said.

With Williams reportedly becoming increasingly impatient, officials looked to rescue the situation by moving Thiem to another room.

"That's really impolite," she was heard to say.

Thiem had defeated Pablo Cuevas of Uruguay 6-3, 4-6, 6-2, 7-5 while Williams was stunned 6-2, 7-5 by Kenin.

There was a backlash on social media over the incident.

"Wait your turn for the press room like everyone else," tweeted former Australian player Sam Groth.

"Thiem, still in the draw having won, would have agreed to a press time and has a round of 16 match to prepare for, Serena just has her jet on the tarmac!"

Roger Federer said Dominic Thiem was right to be angry at being kicked out of his own press conference so that Roland Garros organisers could accommodate a defeated Serena Williams.

Roger Federer said Dominic Thiem was right to be angry at being kicked out of his own press conference so that Roland Garros organisers could accommodate a defeated Serena Williams. Austria's Thiem, the fourth seed in the men's event and the 2018 runner-up, was conducting his post-match press obligations after reaching the last 16 on Saturday. However, he was then informed that the main interview room was needed by American superstar Williams who had just suffered a third round loss to Sofia Kenin. It was the 23-time Grand Slam title winner's earliest exit at a Slam in almost five years and she was eager to be away from the tournament site as quickly as possible. "It's a joke," fumed 25-year-old Thiem to media officers after being told he should finish his interviews in a smaller room. "I have to leave the room because she's coming. What the hell, I don't care. I can also do whatever I want." Watch the video: video of Dominic his press https://t.co/frzKL4iVbY — t (@slaycoric) June 1, 2019 × Federer leapt to the defence of Thiem, describing him as "a superstar, a male superstar". "I think the one who is still in the tournament gets priority, that's how I see it," said Federer after easing past Leonardo Mayer to reach his 54th quarter-final at the majors. "There must have been a misunderstanding or maybe they should have kept Serena still in the locker room, not waiting here in the press centre. "I don't know exactly what happened. I understand Dominic's frustration. I don't think he's mad at Serena or anybody. I just think it was an unfortunate situation." There was no indication as to who had decided to shift Thiem mid-flow on Saturday night. However, French sports daily L'Equipe claimed that Williams had no preference over where she carried out her press conference. "Put me in another room, a smaller one, but now," she was reported to have said. With Williams reportedly becoming increasingly impatient, officials looked to rescue the situation by moving Thiem to another room. "That's really impolite," she was heard to say. Thiem had defeated Pablo Cuevas of Uruguay 6-3, 4-6, 6-2, 7-5 while Williams was stunned 6-2, 7-5 by Kenin. There was a backlash on social media over the incident. "Wait your turn for the press room like everyone else," tweeted former Australian player Sam Groth. "Thiem, still in the draw having won, would have agreed to a press time and has a round of 16 match to prepare for, Serena just has her jet on the tarmac!"

Roger Federer says Thiem right to fume over Serena Williams press conference row

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Roger+Federer">Roger Federer</a> reached the French Open quarter-finals for the 12th time on Sunday, becoming the oldest man in 28 years to make the last eight of a Slam.

The 37-year-old eased past Argentina's Leonardo Mayer 6-2, 6-3, 6-3 and will face either close friend and Swiss compatriot Stan Wawrinka or Greek sixth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas for a semi-final spot.

"It's fabulous that I can spend this time in&nbsp;Paris," said Federer who last played the tournament in 2015 when he made the quarter-finals -- where he lost to Wawrinka.

The Greek star, meanwhile, defeated Federer in the last 16 of the Australian Open in January.

"I was prepared for the worst scenario, losing in the first round in three sets. But I am super happy with my performance.

"I will need to play like this again against either Stan or Tsitsipas."

Federer will be playing in his 54th quarter-final at a Slam, cementing his place on top of the all-time men's list.

Despite leading Wawrinka 23-3 in career head-to-head meetings, Federer said he still remembers his quarter-final loss to his friend in Paris four years ago.

"I have a bad memory of it. Stan beat me in three sets with his terrible shorts!

"But he played really great that year and won the title."

Federer, the 2009 champion in Paris, is the oldest man to make the quarter-finals of a Slam since Jimmy Connors at the 1991 US Open.

Federer didn't face a break point in the fourth round match against the outclassed world number 68 played in a sweltering 32 degrees on Court Philippe Chatrier.

Roger Federer reached the French Open quarter-finals for the 12th time on Sunday, becoming the oldest man in 28 years to make the last eight of a Slam. The 37-year-old eased past Argentina's Leonardo Mayer 6-2, 6-3, 6-3 and will face either close friend and Swiss compatriot Stan Wawrinka or Greek sixth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas for a semi-final spot.

Roger Federer reached the French Open quarter-finals for the 12th time on Sunday, becoming the oldest man in 28 years to make the last eight of a Slam. The 37-year-old eased past Argentina's Leonardo Mayer 6-2, 6-3, 6-3 and will face either close friend and Swiss compatriot Stan Wawrinka or Greek sixth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas for a semi-final spot. "It's fabulous that I can spend this time in Paris," said Federer who last played the tournament in 2015 when he made the quarter-finals -- where he lost to Wawrinka. The Greek star, meanwhile, defeated Federer in the last 16 of the Australian Open in January. "I was prepared for the worst scenario, losing in the first round in three sets. But I am super happy with my performance. "I will need to play like this again against either Stan or Tsitsipas." Federer will be playing in his 54th quarter-final at a Slam, cementing his place on top of the all-time men's list. Despite leading Wawrinka 23-3 in career head-to-head meetings, Federer said he still remembers his quarter-final loss to his friend in Paris four years ago. "I have a bad memory of it. Stan beat me in three sets with his terrible shorts! "But he played really great that year and won the title." Federer, the 2009 champion in Paris, is the oldest man to make the quarter-finals of a Slam since Jimmy Connors at the 1991 US Open. Federer didn't face a break point in the fourth round match against the outclassed world number 68 played in a sweltering 32 degrees on Court Philippe Chatrier.

Roger Federer eases into 12th French Open quarter-final

Roger Federer celebrated his 400th Grand Slam match with an easy victory on Friday over Norway's Casper Ruud, winning 6-3, 6-1, 7-6(10-8) to become the oldest male player to reach the fourth round at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/second-seed-karolina-pliskova-knocked-out-of-french-open-223175">French Open</a> since 1972.

The 37-year-old Swiss showed little mercy to his 20-year-old opponent, whose father Christian reached the third round when Federer first played on the 'terre battue' of Roland Garros as a wild-card entrant in 1999.

Federer lost that year in the first round.

The world no. 3 needed little more than an hour to pick up the first two sets, but a rare lapse in concentration allowed Ruud, ranked 63, to pick up an early break in the third set.

The Swiss reeled the youngster back in, forcing the game to a tie-break where he squandered three match points before going on to win.

"I liked how he figured things out after going on a tough run thereof nine games," Federer said in a post-match press conference.

"The third set could have gone either way. He had chances early, then later, and then again after. It was nice to see him hang in there. He's got a great attitude, very calm, very quiet, maybe very Norwegian," Federer said.

Federer was making his first appearance at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-novak-djokovic-cruises-into-third-round-after-convincing-win-over-henri-laaksonen-223046">Roland Garros</a> since he reached the quarter-finals in 2015.

He withdrew from the event in 2016 and missed the entire clay court season in 2017 and 2018 to focus on grass.

"I thought (today's game) was tough, even though I had a good run there for a while. That also is very important for me, to know... that I can run through a set and a half and just take care of business. Gives me confidence for the next match, that's for sure," Federer said.

As he signed autographs at the end, a female fan said,&nbsp;"Roger, I've never seen you sweat before, this is crazy."

Federer quipped back,&nbsp;"I know, I don't know what's going on, I must be getting old!"

Federer is vying for his second French Open title 10 years after his first in 2009, which would set a record for the longest gap between winning a second title at a Grand Slam in the Open era.

He will meet Argentina's Leonardo Mayer in the fourth round.

Roger Federer celebrated his 400th Grand Slam match with an easy victory on Friday over Norway's Casper Ruud, winning 6-3, 6-1, 7-6(10-8) to become the oldest male player to reach the fourth round at the French Open since 1972.

Roger Federer celebrated his 400th Grand Slam match with an easy victory on Friday over Norway's Casper Ruud, winning 6-3, 6-1, 7-6(10-8) to become the oldest male player to reach the fourth round at the French Open since 1972. The 37-year-old Swiss showed little mercy to his 20-year-old opponent, whose father Christian reached the third round when Federer first played on the 'terre battue' of Roland Garros as a wild-card entrant in 1999. Federer lost that year in the first round. The world no. 3 needed little more than an hour to pick up the first two sets, but a rare lapse in concentration allowed Ruud, ranked 63, to pick up an early break in the third set. The Swiss reeled the youngster back in, forcing the game to a tie-break where he squandered three match points before going on to win. "I liked how he figured things out after going on a tough run thereof nine games," Federer said in a post-match press conference. "The third set could have gone either way. He had chances early, then later, and then again after. It was nice to see him hang in there. He's got a great attitude, very calm, very quiet, maybe very Norwegian," Federer said. Federer was making his first appearance at Roland Garros since he reached the quarter-finals in 2015. He withdrew from the event in 2016 and missed the entire clay court season in 2017 and 2018 to focus on grass. "I thought (today's game) was tough, even though I had a good run there for a while. That also is very important for me, to know... that I can run through a set and a half and just take care of business. Gives me confidence for the next match, that's for sure," Federer said. As he signed autographs at the end, a female fan said, "Roger, I've never seen you sweat before, this is crazy." Federer quipped back, "I know, I don't know what's going on, I must be getting old!" Federer is vying for his second French Open title 10 years after his first in 2009, which would set a record for the longest gap between winning a second title at a Grand Slam in the Open era. He will meet Argentina's Leonardo Mayer in the fourth round.

French Open: Roger Federer wins his 400th Grand Slam match, blazes into fourth round

Rafael Nadal has set absurdly high standards at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-gael-monfils-thanks-girlfriend-svitolina-as-new-french-clash-against-antoine-hoang-looms-223056">Roland Garros</a> since winning the title on his debut in 2005 and claiming 10 more but even he was excited by his level in beating David Goffin in the third round on Friday.

With the temperature soaring and the Spaniard's forehand at its devastating best, Goffin never really stood a chance, although it is to the Belgian's immense credit that he became the first person to take a set off Nadal in Paris this year.

Nadal's 6-1, 6-3, 4-6, 6-3 victory was never really in doubt once the marauding Mallorcan took the opener in 31 sublime minutes during which he dropped one point on serve.

Try as he might, former world number seven Goffin could not get much closer in the second.

It had looked like the tennis equivalent of a heavyweight boxer taking on a lightweight, but the silky Goffin punched a few dents in Nadal's guard in the third set and delighted the crowd by extending the contest into the evening sunshine when he broke Nadal's serve out of nowhere at 4-4.

It was 10 years to the day that Nadal had lost to Robin Soderling, one of only two defeats he has suffered in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-no-sweat-for-williams-as-she-swings-into-round-three-223053">Paris </a>during his long reign as the king of clay, but any flicker of hope Goffin had of making it three was quickly extinguished.

Nadal stamped his authority back on the contest and opened up a commanding lead in the fourth that he never remotely looked like relinquishing.

"The first set and a half, I would say, it was really fantastic, incredible. It's difficult to play so well," Nadal, who will face Argentina's Juan Ignacio Londero next, in his 14th French Open fourth round, told reporters.

"I did everything perfectly," Nadal said.

Asked if his concentration had dipped slightly, he said the concession of the set was more about Goffin's excellence.

"You need to be realistic. The level that I kept during the first 45 minutes, you can't really maintain that easily. It's very difficult, because it was almost the top level, the highest level I could play," Nadal added.

Londero edged a five-setter against French wildcard Corentin Moutet to become the first debutant to get this far since Goffin managed it in 2012.

If Londero does not know what is heading his way, then Goffin spelt it out succinctly.

"He makes you feel like you hit the ball so slowly," Goffin said.

"It looks like you serve at 120kph, it looks like you hit with softballs because it doesn't go. He's so fast and he's behind and he's playing so heavy. This is his courtyard. It's very difficult to follow his pace," Goffin added.

Rafael Nadal has set absurdly high standards at Roland Garros since winning the title on his debut in 2005 and claiming 10 more but even he was excited by his level in beating David Goffin in the third round on Friday.

Rafael Nadal has set absurdly high standards at Roland Garros since winning the title on his debut in 2005 and claiming 10 more but even he was excited by his level in beating David Goffin in the third round on Friday. With the temperature soaring and the Spaniard's forehand at its devastating best, Goffin never really stood a chance, although it is to the Belgian's immense credit that he became the first person to take a set off Nadal in Paris this year. Nadal's 6-1, 6-3, 4-6, 6-3 victory was never really in doubt once the marauding Mallorcan took the opener in 31 sublime minutes during which he dropped one point on serve. Try as he might, former world number seven Goffin could not get much closer in the second. It had looked like the tennis equivalent of a heavyweight boxer taking on a lightweight, but the silky Goffin punched a few dents in Nadal's guard in the third set and delighted the crowd by extending the contest into the evening sunshine when he broke Nadal's serve out of nowhere at 4-4. It was 10 years to the day that Nadal had lost to Robin Soderling, one of only two defeats he has suffered in Paris during his long reign as the king of clay, but any flicker of hope Goffin had of making it three was quickly extinguished. Nadal stamped his authority back on the contest and opened up a commanding lead in the fourth that he never remotely looked like relinquishing. "The first set and a half, I would say, it was really fantastic, incredible. It's difficult to play so well," Nadal, who will face Argentina's Juan Ignacio Londero next, in his 14th French Open fourth round, told reporters. "I did everything perfectly," Nadal said. Asked if his concentration had dipped slightly, he said the concession of the set was more about Goffin's excellence. "You need to be realistic. The level that I kept during the first 45 minutes, you can't really maintain that easily. It's very difficult, because it was almost the top level, the highest level I could play," Nadal added. Londero edged a five-setter against French wildcard Corentin Moutet to become the first debutant to get this far since Goffin managed it in 2012. If Londero does not know what is heading his way, then Goffin spelt it out succinctly. "He makes you feel like you hit the ball so slowly," Goffin said. "It looks like you serve at 120kph, it looks like you hit with softballs because it doesn't go. He's so fast and he's behind and he's playing so heavy. This is his courtyard. It's very difficult to follow his pace," Goffin added.

French Open: 'Incredible, fantastic' feels Rafael Nadal after demolishing Goffin, sweeps into fourth round

Defending champion Rafael Nadal continued to chomp his way through the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-garbine-muguruza-canters-into-third-round-beating-johanna-larsson-222506">French Open</a> draw on Wednesday and Roger Federer also maintained his smooth progress into the third round.

It felt like a case of deja vu for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-rafael-nadal-enters-third-round-after-defeating-yannick-maden-222544">Spaniard Nadal</a>, the second seed, as for the second match running he dispatched a German qualifier named Yannick in brutal fashion.

After beating Yannick Hanfmann for the loss off six games in round one, he conceded seven against Yannick Maden in a 6-1, 6-2, 6-4 win on Court Suzanne Lenglen, crunching 43 winners in the process.

Things might get more tricky next when he faces Belgium's David Goffin -&nbsp;but the 11-times champion is already on a roll.

"We know that he's at home at the French Open. He's the king," 27th seed Goffin said.

Third seed Federer also played an obscure German, 25-year-old lucky loser Oscar Otte, ranked 144th in the world.

Federer, wearing pale brown shorts, turned the screw just enough, breaking serve at a crucial juncture of each set for a clinical, yet still an eye-catching 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 victory.

After missing the last three French Opens he has found the groove straight away with six near-perfect sets.

"I must say I feel really good, you know, considering I haven't played here in that long," the 37-year-old said.

The women's draw lost another big name as Kiki Bertens, the Dutch fourth seed, was forced to retire early on against Viktoria Kuzmova, saying she had been up all night vomiting.

She joined fifth seed Angelique Kerber and 13th seed Caroline Wozniacki and 2017 champion Jelena Ostapenko through the exit door.

There were no alarms for 2016 champion Garbine Muguruza who beat Johanna Larsson to set up a clash with ninth seed Elina Svitolina who enjoyed a walkover against Kateryna Kozlova.

Last year's runner-up Sloane Stephens also reached the third round, beating Sara Sorribes Tormo 6-1 7-6(3).

Marin Cilic's hopes of completing his set of Grand Slam finals came to an abrupt end as the 11th seed lost a four-hour 23-minute five-setter against Bulgaria's Grigor Dimitrov.

That was one of two matches that in previous years would have graced the latter stages of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-croatias-ivo-karlovic-becomes-oldest-man-to-win-match-at-roland-garros-in-last-46-years-222425">Grand Slam</a>, the other one seeing Japan's Kei Nishikori beat home favourite Jo-Wilfried Tsonga after losing the opening set.

Former world number three Dimitrov, unseeded this year, will have to be at his best again in the third round where he faces 2015 champion Stan Wawrinka.

The Swiss 24th seed was in scintillating form to beat Chile's Cristian Garin, second on the list for claycourt wins this year, 6-1, 6-4, 6-0.

Greek sixth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas, tipped as the man most likely to provide a breakthrough for the next generation this fortnight battled past Bolivian Hugo Dellien.

French hopes were boosted with youngster Corentin Moutet posting an impressive win over 19th seed Guido Pella, while Benoit Paire beat compatriot Pierre-Hugues Herbert 11-9 in the fifth set of a thriller.

Defending champion Rafael Nadal continued to chomp his way through the French Open draw on Wednesday and Roger Federer also maintained his smooth progress into the third round.

Defending champion Rafael Nadal continued to chomp his way through the French Open draw on Wednesday and Roger Federer also maintained his smooth progress into the third round. It felt like a case of deja vu for Spaniard Nadal, the second seed, as for the second match running he dispatched a German qualifier named Yannick in brutal fashion. After beating Yannick Hanfmann for the loss off six games in round one, he conceded seven against Yannick Maden in a 6-1, 6-2, 6-4 win on Court Suzanne Lenglen, crunching 43 winners in the process. Things might get more tricky next when he faces Belgium's David Goffin - but the 11-times champion is already on a roll. "We know that he's at home at the French Open. He's the king," 27th seed Goffin said. Third seed Federer also played an obscure German, 25-year-old lucky loser Oscar Otte, ranked 144th in the world. Federer, wearing pale brown shorts, turned the screw just enough, breaking serve at a crucial juncture of each set for a clinical, yet still an eye-catching 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 victory. After missing the last three French Opens he has found the groove straight away with six near-perfect sets. "I must say I feel really good, you know, considering I haven't played here in that long," the 37-year-old said. The women's draw lost another big name as Kiki Bertens, the Dutch fourth seed, was forced to retire early on against Viktoria Kuzmova, saying she had been up all night vomiting. She joined fifth seed Angelique Kerber and 13th seed Caroline Wozniacki and 2017 champion Jelena Ostapenko through the exit door. There were no alarms for 2016 champion Garbine Muguruza who beat Johanna Larsson to set up a clash with ninth seed Elina Svitolina who enjoyed a walkover against Kateryna Kozlova. Last year's runner-up Sloane Stephens also reached the third round, beating Sara Sorribes Tormo 6-1 7-6(3). Marin Cilic's hopes of completing his set of Grand Slam finals came to an abrupt end as the 11th seed lost a four-hour 23-minute five-setter against Bulgaria's Grigor Dimitrov. That was one of two matches that in previous years would have graced the latter stages of a Grand Slam, the other one seeing Japan's Kei Nishikori beat home favourite Jo-Wilfried Tsonga after losing the opening set. Former world number three Dimitrov, unseeded this year, will have to be at his best again in the third round where he faces 2015 champion Stan Wawrinka. The Swiss 24th seed was in scintillating form to beat Chile's Cristian Garin, second on the list for claycourt wins this year, 6-1, 6-4, 6-0. Greek sixth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas, tipped as the man most likely to provide a breakthrough for the next generation this fortnight battled past Bolivian Hugo Dellien. French hopes were boosted with youngster Corentin Moutet posting an impressive win over 19th seed Guido Pella, while Benoit Paire beat compatriot Pierre-Hugues Herbert 11-9 in the fifth set of a thriller.

French Open: No sweat for Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer as they advance into third round, Bertens pulls out

Novak Djokovic can become only the second man in history to have twice held all four Grand Slam titles at the same time with victory at the French Open. However, a returning Roger Federer and rejuvenated Rafael Nadal will once again stand in his way.

Who can stop Rafael Nadal from winning 12th title?

Novak Djokovic can become only the second man in history to have twice held all four Grand Slam titles at the same time with victory at the French Open.

However, a returning Roger Federer and rejuvenated Rafael Nadal will once again stand in his way.

World number one Djokovic completed his first private stranglehold of all four Slams with victory at Roland Garros in 2016.

Having clinched the 2018 Wimbledon and US Open titles and then a seventh Australian Open crown in January this year, the Serb is tantalisingly close to another 'Djoko Slam'.

Federer and Nadal, with 20 and 17 career Grand Slam titles each respectively, may be ahead of 15-time major winner Djokovic in total hauls.

However, they have never managed to hold all four of the sport's greatest prizes at the same time.

It is such a rare feat that only Don Budge (1938) and Rod Laver (1962 and 1969) -- all calendar Grand Slams -- have pulled off the sweep in the sport's history.

Djokovic, who turned 32 on Wednesday, is playing down his potential date with destiny.

After losing to Nadal in the Italian Open final last weekend, the Serb was in no doubt that it was the Spaniard who would likely be celebrating a 12th Roland Garros title in a little over two weeks' time.

"Nadal, number one favourite, without a doubt -- then everyone else," he said.

However, he admits his Paris triumph of 2016 which gave him his first sweep, is fuelling his bid for more history.

"There is an extra motivation and incentive to win Roland Garros because of the opportunity to hold all four Slams, something I did three years ago, and that gives me obviously enough reason to believe I can do it again."

Twelve months ago, such confidence would have appeared reckless when he was shocked by Italian journeyman Marco Cecchinato in the quarter-finals, a defeat which sent him crashing out of the top 20 for the first time in over a decade.

This time around he starts his campaign against Poland's Hubert Hurkacz, the world number 43 with a potential quarter-final against Germany's Alexander Zverev who has still to get past the last eight at a Slam.

Federer is returning to Roland Garros for the first time since 2015 having turned his back on clay court tennis to focus on Wimbledon.&nbsp;

10th anniversary

This year marks the 10th anniversary of his one and only Paris triumph and should the 37-year-old defy the odds and clinch the 2019 title he would become the oldest Grand Slam champion of all time.

However, Federer admits his hopes of seeing off Nadal and Djokovic are slim.

"I feel like I'm playing good tennis, but is it enough against the absolute top guys when it really comes to the crunch? I'm not sure if it's in my racquet," he said Friday.

The Swiss star faces Italy's Lorenzo Sonego, ranked at 73 in the first round on Sunday and could meet Nadal in the semi-finals.

Nadal, whose record at Roland Garros stands at a staggering 11 titles and a win-loss record of 86-2, claimed a ninth Italian Open title and a record 34th Masters last week.

"I don't care if I'm the favourite," said Nadal who starts against German qualifier Yannick Hanfmann, the world 184 who has never won a Grand Slam match.&nbsp;

"I care about feeling well and playing well."

Nadal's three-set win over Djokovic in Rome was timely as it was his first title of 2019 and had followed three successive semi-final losses at Monte Carlo, Barcelona and Madrid.

The last two of those were against Dominic Thiem and Stefanos Tsitsipas, both of whom play with a one-handed backhand, just like Federer.

Thiem, the 2018 runner-up to Nadal at Roland Garros, has defeated the Spaniard four times on clay.

"There is a new wave coming through with the one-handed backhand that can counter some of Rafa's spins and lefty play," said Federer.

Novak Djokovic can become only the second man in history to have twice held all four Grand Slam titles at the same time with victory at the French Open. However, a returning Roger Federer and rejuvenated Rafael Nadal will once again stand in his way. World number one Djokovic completed his first private stranglehold of all four Slams with victory at Roland Garros in 2016. Having clinched the 2018 Wimbledon and US Open titles and then a seventh Australian Open crown in January this year, the Serb is tantalisingly close to another 'Djoko Slam'. Federer and Nadal, with 20 and 17 career Grand Slam titles each respectively, may be ahead of 15-time major winner Djokovic in total hauls. However, they have never managed to hold all four of the sport's greatest prizes at the same time. It is such a rare feat that only Don Budge (1938) and Rod Laver (1962 and 1969) -- all calendar Grand Slams -- have pulled off the sweep in the sport's history. Djokovic, who turned 32 on Wednesday, is playing down his potential date with destiny. After losing to Nadal in the Italian Open final last weekend, the Serb was in no doubt that it was the Spaniard who would likely be celebrating a 12th Roland Garros title in a little over two weeks' time. "Nadal, number one favourite, without a doubt -- then everyone else," he said. However, he admits his Paris triumph of 2016 which gave him his first sweep, is fuelling his bid for more history. "There is an extra motivation and incentive to win Roland Garros because of the opportunity to hold all four Slams, something I did three years ago, and that gives me obviously enough reason to believe I can do it again." Twelve months ago, such confidence would have appeared reckless when he was shocked by Italian journeyman Marco Cecchinato in the quarter-finals, a defeat which sent him crashing out of the top 20 for the first time in over a decade. This time around he starts his campaign against Poland's Hubert Hurkacz, the world number 43 with a potential quarter-final against Germany's Alexander Zverev who has still to get past the last eight at a Slam. Federer is returning to Roland Garros for the first time since 2015 having turned his back on clay court tennis to focus on Wimbledon. 10th anniversary This year marks the 10th anniversary of his one and only Paris triumph and should the 37-year-old defy the odds and clinch the 2019 title he would become the oldest Grand Slam champion of all time. However, Federer admits his hopes of seeing off Nadal and Djokovic are slim. "I feel like I'm playing good tennis, but is it enough against the absolute top guys when it really comes to the crunch? I'm not sure if it's in my racquet," he said Friday. The Swiss star faces Italy's Lorenzo Sonego, ranked at 73 in the first round on Sunday and could meet Nadal in the semi-finals. Nadal, whose record at Roland Garros stands at a staggering 11 titles and a win-loss record of 86-2, claimed a ninth Italian Open title and a record 34th Masters last week. "I don't care if I'm the favourite," said Nadal who starts against German qualifier Yannick Hanfmann, the world 184 who has never won a Grand Slam match. "I care about feeling well and playing well." Nadal's three-set win over Djokovic in Rome was timely as it was his first title of 2019 and had followed three successive semi-final losses at Monte Carlo, Barcelona and Madrid. The last two of those were against Dominic Thiem and Stefanos Tsitsipas, both of whom play with a one-handed backhand, just like Federer. Thiem, the 2018 runner-up to Nadal at Roland Garros, has defeated the Spaniard four times on clay. "There is a new wave coming through with the one-handed backhand that can counter some of Rafa's spins and lefty play," said Federer.

Roger Federer, Rafa Nadal threaten Djokovic bid for historic Slam

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=roger+federer">Roger Federer</a> was handed a comfortable-looking start in the French Open draw on Thursday as the 20-times Grand Slam champion makes his return to the tournament after a three-year hiatus.

The third-seeded Swiss will open his quest for a second Musketeers Cup against Italian Lorenzo Sonego, the world number 73, but faces a potentially tricky quarter-final against young Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas who beat him at this year's Australian Open.

Former world number one Federer, 37, is in the same half of the draw as claycourt master Rafa Nadal and could meet the Spaniard in the semis.

Defending champion Nadal, seeded second, will open up against a qualifier as he aims for a record-extending 12th title at Roland Garros.

"I had my first training today and I had good sensations," said Nadal, who was given a tour of the renovated stadium by tournament director Guy Forget after winning his first claycourt title of the season at the Italian Open.

"It was very important for me to play well in Rome, I hope it's a good sign for Roland Garros," the Spaniard, who could face Japanese Kei Nishikori in the last eight, added.

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World number one Novak Djokovic, who is looking to hold all four majors for the second time in his career, will take on Hubert Hurkacz with a possible quarter-final against German Alexander Zverev.

In the women's draw, world number one Naomi Osaka will kick off her bid for a maiden French Open title against Slovak Anna Karolina Schmiedlova.

Defending champion Simona Halep of Romania, the third seed, will take on Australian Ajla Tomljanovic after being drawn in the same half as Osaka.

Serena Williams will face Vitalia Diatchenko in only her second match on clay this season after she retired from the Italian Open ahead of a second-round match against her sister Venus due to a knee injury.

With 23 singles Grand Slam titles to her name, the 10th-seeded American, on a quarter-final collision course with Osaka, is one short of the all-time record of Margaret Court.

One of the first-round clashes to watch is 2017 champion Jelena Ostapenko against two-times Grand Slam winner Victoria Azarenka, with the winner likely to take on Osaka in the second round.

Roger Federer was handed a comfortable-looking start in the French Open draw on Thursday as the 20-times Grand Slam champion makes his return to the tournament after a three-year hiatus.

Roger Federer was handed a comfortable-looking start in the French Open draw on Thursday as the 20-times Grand Slam champion makes his return to the tournament after a three-year hiatus. The third-seeded Swiss will open his quest for a second Musketeers Cup against Italian Lorenzo Sonego, the world number 73, but faces a potentially tricky quarter-final against young Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas who beat him at this year's Australian Open. Former world number one Federer, 37, is in the same half of the draw as claycourt master Rafa Nadal and could meet the Spaniard in the semis. Defending champion Nadal, seeded second, will open up against a qualifier as he aims for a record-extending 12th title at Roland Garros. "I had my first training today and I had good sensations," said Nadal, who was given a tour of the renovated stadium by tournament director Guy Forget after winning his first claycourt title of the season at the Italian Open. "It was very important for me to play well in Rome, I hope it's a good sign for Roland Garros," the Spaniard, who could face Japanese Kei Nishikori in the last eight, added. Les tableaux de #RG19 sont sortis ! > Simple dames : https://t.co/GVLqthJxMQ > Simple messieurs : https://t.co/XYJXS0XSMV — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) May 23, 2019 × World number one Novak Djokovic, who is looking to hold all four majors for the second time in his career, will take on Hubert Hurkacz with a possible quarter-final against German Alexander Zverev. In the women's draw, world number one Naomi Osaka will kick off her bid for a maiden French Open title against Slovak Anna Karolina Schmiedlova. Defending champion Simona Halep of Romania, the third seed, will take on Australian Ajla Tomljanovic after being drawn in the same half as Osaka. Serena Williams will face Vitalia Diatchenko in only her second match on clay this season after she retired from the Italian Open ahead of a second-round match against her sister Venus due to a knee injury. With 23 singles Grand Slam titles to her name, the 10th-seeded American, on a quarter-final collision course with Osaka, is one short of the all-time record of Margaret Court. One of the first-round clashes to watch is 2017 champion Jelena Ostapenko against two-times Grand Slam winner Victoria Azarenka, with the winner likely to take on Osaka in the second round.

Draw hands Roger Federer smooth start on French Open return

Most defending champions would start a grand slam with added pressure but Simona Halep declared she would kick off her <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/draw-hands-roger-federer-smooth-start-on-french-open-return-221215">French Open campaign</a> knowing that she's 'done it already'.

The third-seeded Romanian lifted the Suzanne Lenglen Cup last year after coming off second best at two previous Roland Garros finals.

"It's much better and much easier, because I have the title already. Doesn't matter anymore what is going to happen," the 27-year-old told reporters on Friday ahead of the May 26-June 9 claycourt tournament.

"Everything comes now as a bonus. So I will try just to give my best and to see if I'm able to do it again."

Halep, who lost in the 2014 and 2017 finals in Paris, will kick off her campaign against Australian Ajla Tomljanovic and appears to have an easy path to the quarter-finals, where she faces a potential clash with Czech Petra Kvitova.

"I will try to do things (like) a kid, enjoying the time. I wanted this badly, and I wanted so much that now having it, I just want to be happy and to smile," said Halep, who has not gone past the fourth round in a grand slam since she triumphed here last year.

"Yesterday when I had the chance to touch the trophy again (at the draw ceremony), I wanted to take it home, but I was not able to do that."

On clay, she reached the final of the Madrid Open before losing in the second round of the Italian Open last week.

"I played so well in Fed Cup (against France). I really felt the game, and I was really confident after that tie. Also disappointed that we couldn't win the match, but still gave me a lot of confidence," she said.

"And then going to Madrid which is maybe my favourite tournament, because I won twice there, and I played two finals, even if I didn't win the final, I felt that my level is very high.

"I have confidence. I don't count Rome this year."

Most defending champions would start a grand slam with added pressure but Simona Halep declared she would kick off her French Open campaign knowing that she's 'done it already'.

Most defending champions would start a grand slam with added pressure but Simona Halep declared she would kick off her French Open campaign knowing that she's 'done it already'. The third-seeded Romanian lifted the Suzanne Lenglen Cup last year after coming off second best at two previous Roland Garros finals. "It's much better and much easier, because I have the title already. Doesn't matter anymore what is going to happen," the 27-year-old told reporters on Friday ahead of the May 26-June 9 claycourt tournament. "Everything comes now as a bonus. So I will try just to give my best and to see if I'm able to do it again." Halep, who lost in the 2014 and 2017 finals in Paris, will kick off her campaign against Australian Ajla Tomljanovic and appears to have an easy path to the quarter-finals, where she faces a potential clash with Czech Petra Kvitova. "I will try to do things (like) a kid, enjoying the time. I wanted this badly, and I wanted so much that now having it, I just want to be happy and to smile," said Halep, who has not gone past the fourth round in a grand slam since she triumphed here last year. "Yesterday when I had the chance to touch the trophy again (at the draw ceremony), I wanted to take it home, but I was not able to do that." On clay, she reached the final of the Madrid Open before losing in the second round of the Italian Open last week. "I played so well in Fed Cup (against France). I really felt the game, and I was really confident after that tie. Also disappointed that we couldn't win the match, but still gave me a lot of confidence," she said. "And then going to Madrid which is maybe my favourite tournament, because I won twice there, and I played two finals, even if I didn't win the final, I felt that my level is very high. "I have confidence. I don't count Rome this year."

Simona Halep to start French Open title defence with no extra pressure

Novak Djokovic, Rafa Nadal and Johanna Konta progressed to the Italian Open semi-finals on Friday, but Roger Federer and Naomi Osaka were forced to withdraw with injury problems.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/naomi-osaka-pulls-out-of-italian-open-due-to-right-thumb-injury-219451">World number one Osaka pulled out</a> of her quarter-final meeting with Kiki Bertens due to a thumb injury before 37-year-old <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-out-of-italian-open-with-right-leg-injury-219425">Federer announced his withdrawal</a> because of a problem to his right leg.

Djokovic beat Juan Martin del Potro 4-6, 7-6, (8-6), 6-4 in a three-hour thriller in the final match of the day to set up a semi-final with another Argentine Diego Schwartzman.

The world number one saved two match points in a second set tiebreak before edging to victory in the final set after a match that brought out some scintillating tennis from both players.

Djokovic will now meet Schwartzman on Saturday after the world number 24 beat Japanese sixth seed Kei Nishikori 6-4, 6-2.&nbsp;

Defending Italian Open champion Nadal set up a semi-final with Stefanos Tsitsipas thanks to a 6-4, 6-0 win over fellow Spaniard Fernando Verdasco.

A week after losing to the Greek at the same stage of the Madrid Open, the 32-year-old Nadal will be eager to prove that defeat was just a blip as the Spaniard fine-tunes his game ahead of his bid for a 12th Roland Garros title.&nbsp;

The 20-year-old Greek progressed after Federer's withdrawal.

Nadal went 2-0 down against Verdasco before surviving three break points at 4-4 in the first set, but the second seed pulled away by winning eight consecutive games to continue his hunt for a ninth title in Rome.

"I was not playing badly at the beginning at all but he was playing unbelievable (tennis)," Nadal told reporters.

"No mistakes, a lot of winners, taking the ball early. It was a very difficult first set. It was one of the first sets that I am happier with. I think I had a good feeling during the whole match. Then after winning that first set, in the second, of course, he slows down a little bit, but I was able to play a little bit more aggressive with the forehand'', Nadal said.

"I did a lot of things well. I am very happy to be in the semi-finals again. It's a good victory", he added.

In the women's draw, Konta booked her first semi-final in Rome with a 6-3, 3-6, 6-1 win over Czech Marketa Vondrousova.

The Briton, who defeated Americans Sloane Stephens and Venus Williams in her two matches on Thursday, will face sixth seed Bertens on Saturday after the Madrid Open champion progressed as a result of Osaka's withdrawal.&nbsp;

Konta, celebrating her 28th birthday, hit 42 winners against the 19-year-old Vondrousova and dominated the final set to clinch victory in one hour, 53 minutes.

She heads towards this month's French Open in fine form on clay, having finished runner-up in the Morocco Open at the start of May.&nbsp;

Fourth seed Karolina Pliskova recorded her 500th career win with a 6-7, (5-7), 6-2, 6-2 victory over Victoria Azarenka.

She will face Maria Sakkari in the other semi-final after the Greek defeated fellow qualifier Kristina Mladenovic 5-7, 6-3, 6-0.

Novak Djokovic, Rafa Nadal and Johanna Konta progressed to the Italian Open semi-finals on Friday, but Roger Federer and Naomi Osaka were forced to withdraw with injury problems.

Novak Djokovic, Rafa Nadal and Johanna Konta progressed to the Italian Open semi-finals on Friday, but Roger Federer and Naomi Osaka were forced to withdraw with injury problems. World number one Osaka pulled out of her quarter-final meeting with Kiki Bertens due to a thumb injury before 37-year-old Federer announced his withdrawal because of a problem to his right leg. Djokovic beat Juan Martin del Potro 4-6, 7-6, (8-6), 6-4 in a three-hour thriller in the final match of the day to set up a semi-final with another Argentine Diego Schwartzman. The world number one saved two match points in a second set tiebreak before edging to victory in the final set after a match that brought out some scintillating tennis from both players. Djokovic will now meet Schwartzman on Saturday after the world number 24 beat Japanese sixth seed Kei Nishikori 6-4, 6-2. Defending Italian Open champion Nadal set up a semi-final with Stefanos Tsitsipas thanks to a 6-4, 6-0 win over fellow Spaniard Fernando Verdasco. A week after losing to the Greek at the same stage of the Madrid Open, the 32-year-old Nadal will be eager to prove that defeat was just a blip as the Spaniard fine-tunes his game ahead of his bid for a 12th Roland Garros title. The 20-year-old Greek progressed after Federer's withdrawal. Nadal went 2-0 down against Verdasco before surviving three break points at 4-4 in the first set, but the second seed pulled away by winning eight consecutive games to continue his hunt for a ninth title in Rome. "I was not playing badly at the beginning at all but he was playing unbelievable (tennis)," Nadal told reporters. "No mistakes, a lot of winners, taking the ball early. It was a very difficult first set. It was one of the first sets that I am happier with. I think I had a good feeling during the whole match. Then after winning that first set, in the second, of course, he slows down a little bit, but I was able to play a little bit more aggressive with the forehand'', Nadal said. "I did a lot of things well. I am very happy to be in the semi-finals again. It's a good victory", he added. In the women's draw, Konta booked her first semi-final in Rome with a 6-3, 3-6, 6-1 win over Czech Marketa Vondrousova. The Briton, who defeated Americans Sloane Stephens and Venus Williams in her two matches on Thursday, will face sixth seed Bertens on Saturday after the Madrid Open champion progressed as a result of Osaka's withdrawal. Konta, celebrating her 28th birthday, hit 42 winners against the 19-year-old Vondrousova and dominated the final set to clinch victory in one hour, 53 minutes. She heads towards this month's French Open in fine form on clay, having finished runner-up in the Morocco Open at the start of May. Fourth seed Karolina Pliskova recorded her 500th career win with a 6-7, (5-7), 6-2, 6-2 victory over Victoria Azarenka. She will face Maria Sakkari in the other semi-final after the Greek defeated fellow qualifier Kristina Mladenovic 5-7, 6-3, 6-0.

Italian Open: Djokovic, Nadal and Konta progress to semis, Osaka and Federer bow out with injury

An action-packed day at the Italian Open was marred by an astonishing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kyrgios-kicks-water-bottle-throws-chair-gets-disqualified-from-italian-open-219215">outburst from Australian Nick Kyrgios, who was expelled</a> from the tournament after going wild in the third set of his match against Casper Ruud on Thursday.

The incident overshadowed an outstanding day for Roger Federer, who reached the quarter-finals on his return to the tournament for the first time since 2016 with a 2-6, 6-4, 7-6(7) win over Borna Coric, <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/italian-open-roger-federer-rafael-nadal-and-naomi-osaka-through-to-last-16-219212&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj9ys6P7qHiAhUVXHwKHcwgCz0QFjADegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0TN6Ap7x66k7h4ZxdQ3LFp">having earlier beaten Joao Sousa.</a>

Holder Rafael Nadal and world number one Novak Djokovic also romped into the last eight with straight sets wins on a day featuring double bills for the top seeds after rain wiped out Wednesday's play, with the Spaniard dropping only two games.

Kyrgios made an unsavoury exit from the tournament.&nbsp;

Trailing 2-1 in the third set, the Australian slammed his racket into the ground, kicked a water bottle and tossed a chair towards the centre of the court before he shook hands with the umpire and his Norwegian opponent Ruud and walked out.

The outburst came after Kyrgios got a code violation for unsportsmanlike conduct.

Having already been handed a violation earlier, it meant the umpire also handed Kyrgios a game penalty.

All that came after the 24-year-old <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nick-kyrgios-calls-novak-djokovic-cringeworthy-and-rafael-nadal-salty-in-unfiltered-podcast-219103">ripped into Djokovic and Nadal in a podcast</a>, having also misbehaved in his second-round match with Russian Daniil Medvedev on Tuesday.

Several hours after slamming a ball over the Foro Italico's stands and bending over to turn his backside on Medvedev, Kyrgios branded Nadal a sore loser and the Spaniard`s uncle Toni an "idiot" for saying the Australian lacks education.

Speaking to tennis writer Ben Rothenberg on the ‘No Challenges Remaining’ podcast, Kyrgios also said Djokovic was "an unbelievable player" and "a champion of the sport" but added that the Serb was too desperate to be admired like Federer.

"I just feel like he has a sick obsession with wanting to be liked. He just wants to be like Roger," Kyrgios said.&nbsp;

GRITTY COMEBACK

The 37-year-old fan favourite Federer rolled back the years to beat Sousa 6-3, 6-4 in the morning before staging a gritty comeback to edge Coric after saving two match points in the third-set tiebreak.

The Swiss maestro had looked every bit his age in the opening set against Coric, 15 years his junior, as the Croatian pummelled his rival with stinging baseline shots.

Federer bounced back in the second as he carved out a 5-2 lead and clinched the set after Coric, who briefly stayed in it with a break of serve, sent a forehand beyond the baseline.

With both players producing an array of spectacular shots, games went with serve all the way to the tiebreak, when Federer produced his best shots with his back against the wall.&nbsp;

"It was very tight and I got lucky again. The atmosphere was fantastic, exactly how you want the atmosphere to be",&nbsp;a delighted Federer said in a courtside interview.&nbsp;

Second seed Nadal blew away Frenchman Jeremy Chardy 6-0, 6-1 earlier in the day before breezing past Georgian Nikoloz Basilashvili 6-1, 6-0 and Djokovic spent a mere two hours and 10 minutes on the court in total.

The top seed brushed aside Denis Shapovalov 6-1, 6-3 followed by 6-3, 6-0 destruction of Philipp Kohlschreiber in the late match on Centre Court.&nbsp;

Women's world number one Naomi Osaka of Japan also had to double up as she reached her maiden Rome quarter-final with a pair of 6-3, 6-3 wins, overpowering Slovakian Dominika Cibulkova before sweeping aside Romania`s Mihaela Buzarnescu.

An action-packed day at the Italian Open was marred by an astonishing outburst from Australian Nick Kyrgios, who was expelled from the tournament after going wild in the third set of his match against Casper Ruud on Thursday.

An action-packed day at the Italian Open was marred by an astonishing outburst from Australian Nick Kyrgios, who was expelled from the tournament after going wild in the third set of his match against Casper Ruud on Thursday. The incident overshadowed an outstanding day for Roger Federer, who reached the quarter-finals on his return to the tournament for the first time since 2016 with a 2-6, 6-4, 7-6(7) win over Borna Coric, having earlier beaten Joao Sousa. Holder Rafael Nadal and world number one Novak Djokovic also romped into the last eight with straight sets wins on a day featuring double bills for the top seeds after rain wiped out Wednesday's play, with the Spaniard dropping only two games. Kyrgios made an unsavoury exit from the tournament. Trailing 2-1 in the third set, the Australian slammed his racket into the ground, kicked a water bottle and tossed a chair towards the centre of the court before he shook hands with the umpire and his Norwegian opponent Ruud and walked out. The outburst came after Kyrgios got a code violation for unsportsmanlike conduct. Having already been handed a violation earlier, it meant the umpire also handed Kyrgios a game penalty. All that came after the 24-year-old ripped into Djokovic and Nadal in a podcast, having also misbehaved in his second-round match with Russian Daniil Medvedev on Tuesday. Several hours after slamming a ball over the Foro Italico's stands and bending over to turn his backside on Medvedev, Kyrgios branded Nadal a sore loser and the Spaniard`s uncle Toni an "idiot" for saying the Australian lacks education. Speaking to tennis writer Ben Rothenberg on the ‘No Challenges Remaining’ podcast, Kyrgios also said Djokovic was "an unbelievable player" and "a champion of the sport" but added that the Serb was too desperate to be admired like Federer. "I just feel like he has a sick obsession with wanting to be liked. He just wants to be like Roger," Kyrgios said. GRITTY COMEBACK The 37-year-old fan favourite Federer rolled back the years to beat Sousa 6-3, 6-4 in the morning before staging a gritty comeback to edge Coric after saving two match points in the third-set tiebreak. The Swiss maestro had looked every bit his age in the opening set against Coric, 15 years his junior, as the Croatian pummelled his rival with stinging baseline shots. Federer bounced back in the second as he carved out a 5-2 lead and clinched the set after Coric, who briefly stayed in it with a break of serve, sent a forehand beyond the baseline. With both players producing an array of spectacular shots, games went with serve all the way to the tiebreak, when Federer produced his best shots with his back against the wall. "It was very tight and I got lucky again. The atmosphere was fantastic, exactly how you want the atmosphere to be", a delighted Federer said in a courtside interview. Second seed Nadal blew away Frenchman Jeremy Chardy 6-0, 6-1 earlier in the day before breezing past Georgian Nikoloz Basilashvili 6-1, 6-0 and Djokovic spent a mere two hours and 10 minutes on the court in total. The top seed brushed aside Denis Shapovalov 6-1, 6-3 followed by 6-3, 6-0 destruction of Philipp Kohlschreiber in the late match on Centre Court. Women's world number one Naomi Osaka of Japan also had to double up as she reached her maiden Rome quarter-final with a pair of 6-3, 6-3 wins, overpowering Slovakian Dominika Cibulkova before sweeping aside Romania`s Mihaela Buzarnescu.

Italian Open: Federer, Nadal and Djokovic reach last eight, Kyrgios expelled

World number three <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/italian-open-federer-nadal-and-djokovic-reach-last-eight-kyrgios-expelled-219307&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjiorL2yaLiAhWIuY8KHYakASkQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0fc4AWaz3_r70-1cBggp_y">Roger Federer</a> pulled out of the Italian Open before his quarter-final match on Friday with a right leg injury.

Federer, a four-time Rome finalist, had been due to meet Greek eighth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas for a place in the semi-finals.

The Swiss 20-time Grand Slam winner was playing in Rome to prepare for his return to the French Open for the first time since 2015.

"I am disappointed that I will not be able to compete today," said Federer.&nbsp;

"I am not 100 per cent physically and after consultation with my team, it was determined that I not play.

"Rome has always been one of my favourite cities to visit and I hope to be back next year."

Federer had been on court nearly four hours on Thursday as competitors played two matches after rain delays midweek.

The 37-year-old saved two match points to win through 2-6, 6-4, 7-6 (9/7) against Borna Coric to advance to the quarter-finals after earlier easing to a straight sets win over Portgual's Joaa Suosa.

The former world number one had been a late addition to the Rome tournament as he sought clay court practice ahead of his bid to add to his lone &nbsp;French Open title in 2009.

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Tsitsipas will play either defending champion Rafael Nadal or Fernando Verdasco for a place in the final.&nbsp;

World number three Roger Federer pulled out of the Italian Open before his quarter-final match on Friday with a right leg injury. Federer, a four-time Rome finalist, had been due to meet Greek eighth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas for a place in the semi-finals.

World number three Roger Federer pulled out of the Italian Open before his quarter-final match on Friday with a right leg injury. Federer, a four-time Rome finalist, had been due to meet Greek eighth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas for a place in the semi-finals. The Swiss 20-time Grand Slam winner was playing in Rome to prepare for his return to the French Open for the first time since 2015. "I am disappointed that I will not be able to compete today," said Federer. "I am not 100 per cent physically and after consultation with my team, it was determined that I not play. "Rome has always been one of my favourite cities to visit and I hope to be back next year." Federer had been on court nearly four hours on Thursday as competitors played two matches after rain delays midweek. The 37-year-old saved two match points to win through 2-6, 6-4, 7-6 (9/7) against Borna Coric to advance to the quarter-finals after earlier easing to a straight sets win over Portgual's Joaa Suosa. The former world number one had been a late addition to the Rome tournament as he sought clay court practice ahead of his bid to add to his lone French Open title in 2009. Get well soon, @rogerfederer 🙏 pic.twitter.com/4kKVwDglcP — ATP Tour (@ATP_Tour) May 17, 2019 × Tsitsipas will play either defending champion Rafael Nadal or Fernando Verdasco for a place in the final.

Roger Federer out of Italian Open with right leg injury

Australia's Nick Kyrgios has branded <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-breezes-past-stan-wawrinka-and-into-madrid-open-semi-finals-217751&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjLmMe9up_iAhWLto8KHeYwBrQQFjACegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2eHmfuOnnrts7xbjBisn-b">Rafa Nada</a>l a sore loser, the Spaniard's uncle Toni an "idiot" and said <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-wins-third-madrid-title-and-33rd-masters-218214&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjOw42yup_iAhWc6nMBHXsdAkkQFjACegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1WWp-gQ8oWfQVDqsN8yi5R">world number one Novak Djokovic</a> has a "sick obsession" with being liked in a podcast certain to ruffle feathers ahead of the French Open.

Speaking to tennis writer Ben Rothenberg on the 'No Challenges Remaining'&nbsp;podcast, the 24-year-old also disparaged a number of other top professionals and fans who heckle him at his matches.

Kyrgios has had a tense relationship with Nadal, who accused him of "lacking respect for the public, the opponent and himself" after being beaten by the Australian at the Mexican Open in March.

World number 36 Kyrgios labelled the French Open champion "super salty" -- slang for someone who is aggressive or ill-humoured -- and only gracious after victory.

"When he wins, it’s fine. He won’t say anything bad, he’ll credit the opponent, ‘He was a great player’. But as soon as I beat him, it’s just like, ‘He has no respect for me, my fans and no respect to the game’," said Kyrgios.

"It’s not a good look for you, I feel. And then uncle Toni came out saying, 'He lacks education'. I’m like, 'Bra (brother), I did 12 years at school, you idiot. 
"I’m very educated. I understand that you’re upset I beat your family again’."

Turning his sights on another of the game's modern greats, Kyrgios described Djokovic as "an unbelievable player" and "a champion of the sport" but said the Serb was too desperate to be admired like popular Swiss rival <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/dominic-thiem-ousts-roger-federer-in-madrid-open-thriller-to-reach-semis-217625&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjLmMe9up_iAhWLto8KHeYwBrQQFjAEegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3iPu7fuhkbe9oNnIgIuVPh">Roger Federer.</a>

"I just feel like he has a sick obsession with wanting to be liked. He just wants to be like Roger," he said.

"For me personally -- I don’t care right now, I’ve come this far -- I feel like he just wants to be liked so much that I just can’t stand him.

"This whole celebration thing that he does after matches, it’s like so cringeworthy. It’s very cringeworthy."

Kyrgios devoted special attention to Spanish veteran Fernando Verdasco, calling him "the most arrogant person ever".

He spoke warmly of three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray but also said the Briton's head-to-head record against Djokovic -- 11-25 in matches and 2-5 in Grand Slam finals -- was "embarrassing".

He gave no apologies for hitting back at spectators who give him a hard time during matches.

"These guys show me no respect. None," he said.

"So why would I show you respect? For instance, when I’m taking matches, I don’t care that you paid for tickets. You guys treat me like crap anyway."

Kyrgios, who has thrilled fans with the purity of his tennis and alienated some by flouting the game's conventions, plays Norway's Casper Ruud in the second round of the Rome Masters later on Thursday.

He will then bid to surpass the quarter-finals of a Grand Slam for the first time at the May 26-June&nbsp;French Open. 
&nbsp;

Australia's Nick Kyrgios has branded Rafa Nadal a sore loser, the Spaniard's uncle Toni an "idiot" and said world number one Novak Djokovic has a "sick obsession" with being liked in a podcast certain to ruffle feathers ahead of the French Open.

Australia's Nick Kyrgios has branded Rafa Nadal a sore loser, the Spaniard's uncle Toni an "idiot" and said world number one Novak Djokovic has a "sick obsession" with being liked in a podcast certain to ruffle feathers ahead of the French Open. Speaking to tennis writer Ben Rothenberg on the 'No Challenges Remaining' podcast, the 24-year-old also disparaged a number of other top professionals and fans who heckle him at his matches. Kyrgios has had a tense relationship with Nadal, who accused him of "lacking respect for the public, the opponent and himself" after being beaten by the Australian at the Mexican Open in March. World number 36 Kyrgios labelled the French Open champion "super salty" -- slang for someone who is aggressive or ill-humoured -- and only gracious after victory. "When he wins, it’s fine. He won’t say anything bad, he’ll credit the opponent, ‘He was a great player’. But as soon as I beat him, it’s just like, ‘He has no respect for me, my fans and no respect to the game’," said Kyrgios. "It’s not a good look for you, I feel. And then uncle Toni came out saying, 'He lacks education'. I’m like, 'Bra (brother), I did 12 years at school, you idiot. "I’m very educated. I understand that you’re upset I beat your family again’." Turning his sights on another of the game's modern greats, Kyrgios described Djokovic as "an unbelievable player" and "a champion of the sport" but said the Serb was too desperate to be admired like popular Swiss rival Roger Federer. "I just feel like he has a sick obsession with wanting to be liked. He just wants to be like Roger," he said. "For me personally -- I don’t care right now, I’ve come this far -- I feel like he just wants to be liked so much that I just can’t stand him. "This whole celebration thing that he does after matches, it’s like so cringeworthy. It’s very cringeworthy." Kyrgios devoted special attention to Spanish veteran Fernando Verdasco, calling him "the most arrogant person ever". He spoke warmly of three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray but also said the Briton's head-to-head record against Djokovic -- 11-25 in matches and 2-5 in Grand Slam finals -- was "embarrassing". He gave no apologies for hitting back at spectators who give him a hard time during matches. "These guys show me no respect. None," he said. "So why would I show you respect? For instance, when I’m taking matches, I don’t care that you paid for tickets. You guys treat me like crap anyway." Kyrgios, who has thrilled fans with the purity of his tennis and alienated some by flouting the game's conventions, plays Norway's Casper Ruud in the second round of the Rome Masters later on Thursday. He will then bid to surpass the quarter-finals of a Grand Slam for the first time at the May 26-June French Open.

Nick Kyrgios calls Novak Djokovic 'cringeworthy', Rafael Nadal 'salty' in candid podcast

Former world number one Roger Federer marked his return to the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/injured-serena-williams-withdraws-while-alexander-zverev-crashes-out-in-italian-open-218888&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiFh4ecoaDiAhXVjOYKHQWrBKgQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw262nKqHdHwq4495Ay-jl2Q">Italian Open</a> for the first time since 2016 with a 6-4, 6-3 second round win over Joao Sousa on Thursday.

The Swiss had criticised organisers for doubling ticket prices after he confirmed his participation last weekend but the fans who had made their way into Foro Italico on Thursday have been rewarded with a Federer double bill.

With rain having washed out Wednesday's play, Federer along with champion <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/nick-kyrgios-calls-novak-djokovic-cringeworthy-and-rafael-nadal-salty-in-unfiltered-podcast-219103&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjp6bDBoaDiAhUx6nMBHUiVAa8QFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2nqPQHAlMDxq9Q1yGmRchB">Rafael Nadal and top seed Novak Djokovic</a> all face playing back-to-back matches on Thursday if they want to reach the quarter-finals.

The backlog means that fans on the secondary Grandstand Court can also look forward to a blockbuster schedule as Federer will be back for an evening showdown with Croatian Borna Coric.

Earlier in the day, Nadal had treated the Grandstand fans to a 6-0, 6-1 demolition of Frenchman Jeremy Chardy and the Spaniard will be back on action on the main stage against Georgia's Nikoloz Basilashvili.

Women's world number one Naomi Osaka produced a solid performance to beat Slovakian Dominika Cibulkova 6-3, 6-3 in the day's opener.

Djokovic, fresh from winning last week's Madrid Open, was playing Canadian Denis Shapovalov in the round of 32.

A clash with either Philipp Kohlschreiber or Marco Cecchinato will be the winner's reward.

The 37-year old Federer moved around the court like his younger self as he rifled in 17 winners in the opening set, having broken Sousa in the seventh game before he saved a triple break point, the last one with a stunning crosscourt forehand.

Having broken Sousa's serve in the opening game of the second set, the Swiss maestro was at his best again in the seventh as he saved a double break point and went on to wrap up the entertaining contest.&nbsp;

"I came out of the blocks well and held serve throughout, so I am very happy to be in the next round," said Federer.

"I played today already and Borna didn't. I don't know whether it's a disadvantage or not but either way it's going to be tough", Federer added.&nbsp;

After crashing out in the semi-finals on home soil in Madrid, Nadal wasted no time in making a statement of intent as he blew away Chardy.&nbsp;

Nadal won 80 per cent of the points on both his first and second serve as he tormented the Frenchman with a barrage of stinging baseline shots.&nbsp;

Osaka made a slow start against Cibulkova as the Slovakian broke the world number one in the third game of the opening set but regained her composure quickly.

The Japanese served two aces to save a double break point in the eighth game and enjoyed plain sailing for the rest of the tie after clinching the game with a service winner.&nbsp;

In the men`s draw, Fernando Verdasco ground out a surprise 4-6, 6-4, 7-5 win over fifth seed Dominic Thiem, as did Jan-Lennard Struff with a 6-2, 6-3 hammering of Marin Cilic.&nbsp;

Former world number one Roger Federer marked his return to the Italian Open for the first time since 2016 with a 6-4, 6-3 second round win over Joao Sousa on Thursday.

Former world number one Roger Federer marked his return to the Italian Open for the first time since 2016 with a 6-4, 6-3 second round win over Joao Sousa on Thursday. The Swiss had criticised organisers for doubling ticket prices after he confirmed his participation last weekend but the fans who had made their way into Foro Italico on Thursday have been rewarded with a Federer double bill. With rain having washed out Wednesday's play, Federer along with champion Rafael Nadal and top seed Novak Djokovic all face playing back-to-back matches on Thursday if they want to reach the quarter-finals. The backlog means that fans on the secondary Grandstand Court can also look forward to a blockbuster schedule as Federer will be back for an evening showdown with Croatian Borna Coric. Earlier in the day, Nadal had treated the Grandstand fans to a 6-0, 6-1 demolition of Frenchman Jeremy Chardy and the Spaniard will be back on action on the main stage against Georgia's Nikoloz Basilashvili. Women's world number one Naomi Osaka produced a solid performance to beat Slovakian Dominika Cibulkova 6-3, 6-3 in the day's opener. Djokovic, fresh from winning last week's Madrid Open, was playing Canadian Denis Shapovalov in the round of 32. A clash with either Philipp Kohlschreiber or Marco Cecchinato will be the winner's reward. The 37-year old Federer moved around the court like his younger self as he rifled in 17 winners in the opening set, having broken Sousa in the seventh game before he saved a triple break point, the last one with a stunning crosscourt forehand. Having broken Sousa's serve in the opening game of the second set, the Swiss maestro was at his best again in the seventh as he saved a double break point and went on to wrap up the entertaining contest. "I came out of the blocks well and held serve throughout, so I am very happy to be in the next round," said Federer. "I played today already and Borna didn't. I don't know whether it's a disadvantage or not but either way it's going to be tough", Federer added. After crashing out in the semi-finals on home soil in Madrid, Nadal wasted no time in making a statement of intent as he blew away Chardy. Nadal won 80 per cent of the points on both his first and second serve as he tormented the Frenchman with a barrage of stinging baseline shots. Osaka made a slow start against Cibulkova as the Slovakian broke the world number one in the third game of the opening set but regained her composure quickly. The Japanese served two aces to save a double break point in the eighth game and enjoyed plain sailing for the rest of the tie after clinching the game with a service winner. In the men`s draw, Fernando Verdasco ground out a surprise 4-6, 6-4, 7-5 win over fifth seed Dominic Thiem, as did Jan-Lennard Struff with a 6-2, 6-3 hammering of Marin Cilic.

Italian Open: Federer, Nadal and Naomi Osaka sail through to last 16

Rafael Nadal cruised past Stan Wawrinka 6-1, 6-2 in the last <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-reaches-madrid-open-semi-finals-after-maran-cilics-food-poisoning-withdrawal-217505">Madrid Open</a> quarter-final Friday to set up a clash with Stefanos Tsitsipas, who edged Alexander Zverev 7-5 3-6 6-2, in the other semi.

Second-seeded Spaniard Nadal made light work of Wawrinka in the night session, looking back to his best after a disappointing semi-final exit at the Barcelona Open and suffering a virus earlier this week.

A five-time winner in Madrid, Nadal reached the semi-finals for the 11th time when Wawrinka's attempted backhand return hit the net.

"It was one of my best games for some time," said Nadal.

In earlier action, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dominic-thiem-ousts-roger-federer-in-madrid-open-thriller-to-reach-semis-217625">Dominic Thiem edged past Roger Federer</a> 3-6, 7-6(11), 6-4 to end the Swiss veteran's clay season comeback and reach the Madrid Open semi-finals

The fifth-seeded Austrian, who saved two match points, will face Novak Djokovic on Saturday after the world number one's opponent Marin Cilic withdrew with food poisoning.

Federer, playing his first clay tournament for three years, raced into a 4-1 lead inside 15 minutes as he broke the 220 kilometres-per-hour barrier with some powerful serving.

He showed the same drive that saw him bagel Gael Monfils in the first set on Thursday.

The Frenchman had then battled back to force a thrilling tiebreak finale in the third set, and Thiem upped his game significantly too, taking the second set to the wire.

Federer survived three game points to hold serve for 3-3 before Thiem eventually triumphed 13-11 in a gripping tiebreak, saving two match points to force a decider.

Thiem broke to go 2-1 in the third.

Federer broke back to pull level at 4-4 but the Austrian broke again in the next game, sealing it with a sensational forehand over his opponent before serving out the match.

Tsitsipas played a steady game to beat last year's winner Zverev, who made 14 unforced errors in the opening set.

Zverev roared back in the second but double-faulted twice serving at 1-2 down in the decisive third, with Tsitsipas breaking and striding to victory in the battle between two of the sport's young talents.

Rafael Nadal cruised past Stan Wawrinka 6-1, 6-2 in the last Madrid Open quarter-final Friday to set up a clash with Stefanos Tsitsipas, who edged Alexander Zverev 7-5 3-6 6-2, in the other semi.

Rafael Nadal cruised past Stan Wawrinka 6-1, 6-2 in the last Madrid Open quarter-final Friday to set up a clash with Stefanos Tsitsipas, who edged Alexander Zverev 7-5 3-6 6-2, in the other semi. Second-seeded Spaniard Nadal made light work of Wawrinka in the night session, looking back to his best after a disappointing semi-final exit at the Barcelona Open and suffering a virus earlier this week. A five-time winner in Madrid, Nadal reached the semi-finals for the 11th time when Wawrinka's attempted backhand return hit the net. "It was one of my best games for some time," said Nadal. In earlier action, Dominic Thiem edged past Roger Federer 3-6, 7-6(11), 6-4 to end the Swiss veteran's clay season comeback and reach the Madrid Open semi-finals The fifth-seeded Austrian, who saved two match points, will face Novak Djokovic on Saturday after the world number one's opponent Marin Cilic withdrew with food poisoning. Federer, playing his first clay tournament for three years, raced into a 4-1 lead inside 15 minutes as he broke the 220 kilometres-per-hour barrier with some powerful serving. He showed the same drive that saw him bagel Gael Monfils in the first set on Thursday. The Frenchman had then battled back to force a thrilling tiebreak finale in the third set, and Thiem upped his game significantly too, taking the second set to the wire. Federer survived three game points to hold serve for 3-3 before Thiem eventually triumphed 13-11 in a gripping tiebreak, saving two match points to force a decider. Thiem broke to go 2-1 in the third. Federer broke back to pull level at 4-4 but the Austrian broke again in the next game, sealing it with a sensational forehand over his opponent before serving out the match. Tsitsipas played a steady game to beat last year's winner Zverev, who made 14 unforced errors in the opening set. Zverev roared back in the second but double-faulted twice serving at 1-2 down in the decisive third, with Tsitsipas breaking and striding to victory in the battle between two of the sport's young talents.

Rafael Nadal breezes past Stan Wawrinka and into Madrid Open semi-finals

Dominic Thiem edged a thrilling clash with Roger Federer 3-6, 7-6(11), 6-4 to end the Swiss veteran's clay season comeback and reach the Madrid Open semi-finals on Friday (May 10).

The fifth-seeded Austrian, who saved two match points, will face Novak Djokovic on Saturday after the world number one's opponent Marin Cilic withdrew with food poisoning.

Federer, playing his first clay tournament for three years, raced into a 4-1 lead inside 15 minutes as he broke the 220 kilometres-per-hour barrier with some powerful serving.

He showed the same drive that saw him bagel Gael Monfils in the first set on Thursday.

The Frenchman had then battled back to force a thrilling tie-break finale in the third set, and Thiem upped his game significantly too, taking the second set to the wire.

Federer survived three game points to hold serve for 3-3 before Thiem eventually triumphed 13-11 in a gripping tie-break, saving two match points to force a decider.

Thiem broke to go 2-1 in the third. Federer broke back to pull level at 4-4 but the Austrian broke again in the next game, sealing it with a sensational forehand over his opponent before serving out the match.

His next opponent, seeded one, will be well rested after Cilic's unfortunate exit.

"I have had a terrible night dealing with a case of food poisoning. I am extremely disappointed to have my time in Madrid end in this way. Thank you for the support," the Croatian said on Twitter.

In Friday's other quarter-finals, Stefanos Tsitsipas faces Alexander Zverev and second seeded Rafa Nadal plays Stan Wawrinka.

Dominic Thiem edged a thrilling clash with Roger Federer 3-6, 7-6(11), 6-4 to end the Swiss veteran's clay season comeback and reach the Madrid Open semi-finals on Friday (May 10).

Dominic Thiem edged a thrilling clash with Roger Federer 3-6, 7-6(11), 6-4 to end the Swiss veteran's clay season comeback and reach the Madrid Open semi-finals on Friday (May 10). The fifth-seeded Austrian, who saved two match points, will face Novak Djokovic on Saturday after the world number one's opponent Marin Cilic withdrew with food poisoning. Federer, playing his first clay tournament for three years, raced into a 4-1 lead inside 15 minutes as he broke the 220 kilometres-per-hour barrier with some powerful serving. He showed the same drive that saw him bagel Gael Monfils in the first set on Thursday. The Frenchman had then battled back to force a thrilling tie-break finale in the third set, and Thiem upped his game significantly too, taking the second set to the wire. Federer survived three game points to hold serve for 3-3 before Thiem eventually triumphed 13-11 in a gripping tie-break, saving two match points to force a decider. Thiem broke to go 2-1 in the third. Federer broke back to pull level at 4-4 but the Austrian broke again in the next game, sealing it with a sensational forehand over his opponent before serving out the match. His next opponent, seeded one, will be well rested after Cilic's unfortunate exit. "I have had a terrible night dealing with a case of food poisoning. I am extremely disappointed to have my time in Madrid end in this way. Thank you for the support," the Croatian said on Twitter. In Friday's other quarter-finals, Stefanos Tsitsipas faces Alexander Zverev and second seeded Rafa Nadal plays Stan Wawrinka.

Dominic Thiem ousts Roger Federer in Madrid Open thriller to reach semis

World number one Novak Djokovic automatically progressed to the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-survives-match-points-to-beat-gael-monfils-reaches-madrid-open-quarter-finals-217442&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjTv7_a7ZDiAhXC63MBHbZsCygQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2pQmCQaHu6npgnztShcv2R">Madrid Open</a> semi-finals after his quarter-final opponent Marin Cilic was forced to withdraw because of food poisoning on Friday.

"Dear fans, Madrid Open organisers, Novak Djokovic, I am sorry to announce that I must withdraw from today’s match," said&nbsp;Croatian&nbsp;Cilic on Twitter.

"I have had a terrible night dealing with a case of food poisoning. I am extremely disappointed to have my time in Madrid end in this way. Thank you for the support", his tweet read.

Djokovic, in his 250th week at the top of the men’s ATP rankings, will face either Roger Federer or Dominic Thiem in the semi-final on Saturday.

The Serbian, who triumphed in the Spanish capital in 2011 and 2016, beat Taylor Fritz and Jeremy Chardy in the second and third rounds.

World number one Novak Djokovic automatically progressed to the Madrid Open semi-finals after his quarter-final opponent Marin Cilic was forced to withdraw because of food poisoning on Friday.

World number one Novak Djokovic automatically progressed to the Madrid Open semi-finals after his quarter-final opponent Marin Cilic was forced to withdraw because of food poisoning on Friday. "Dear fans, Madrid Open organisers, Novak Djokovic, I am sorry to announce that I must withdraw from today’s match," said Croatian Cilic on Twitter. "I have had a terrible night dealing with a case of food poisoning. I am extremely disappointed to have my time in Madrid end in this way. Thank you for the support", his tweet read. Djokovic, in his 250th week at the top of the men’s ATP rankings, will face either Roger Federer or Dominic Thiem in the semi-final on Saturday. The Serbian, who triumphed in the Spanish capital in 2011 and 2016, beat Taylor Fritz and Jeremy Chardy in the second and third rounds.

Novak Djokovic reaches Madrid Open semi-finals after Maran Cilic's food poisoning withdrawal

Roger Federer survived two match points against French maverick Gael Monfils to extend his claycourt comeback and reach the quarter-finals of the Madrid Open on Thursday.

He was joined in the last eight by <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-beats-felix-auger-aliassime-in-straight-sets-qualifies-for-quarter-finals-at-madrid-open-217224&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwik-OX0s5DiAhXEheYKHVGPAwIQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2CXvC5FidMaomP_QkG9c_L">five-times Madrid champion Rafael Nadal</a> and world number one Novak Djokovic.

The evergreen Federer did not drop a game in a dominant first set but was dragged into an intense battle by an inspired Monfils before prevailing 6-0, 4-6, 7-6(3).

World number three Federer, playing his first tournament on clay for three years as he prepares for the French Open, surrendered the initiative after his brisk start and was in deep trouble in the third set when he trailed 4-1.

Federer struggled with his timing on occasions in breezy, sunny conditions and swatted a ball angrily over the stands when he dropped serve at the start of the decider.

But the 37-year-old Swiss broke back in the seventh game with a stunning sliced backhand return.

Monfils earned a match point at 5-6 on the Federer serve with an ice-cool backhand pass, but Federer followed in a second serve and bounced away from a smash.

Federer saved another match point to set up a tiebreak and he proved unstoppable as he swept to his 1,200th match win.

Austrian Dominic Thiem, a beaten finalist in Madrid last year, awaits in the next round after he beat Italian Fabio Fognini.

"I think Gael did a nice job of not being frustrated losing the first set.&nbsp;I lost five games in a row and it didn't look good for a while but I hung in. There were some highly stressful moments but I mixed it up nicely",&nbsp;Federer said.

Federer's fellow Swiss Stan Wawrinka, champion at Roland Garros in 2015, continued to produce some vintage form as he beat Japan's Kei Nishikori 6-3 7-6(3).

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-extends-lead-as-world-no1-fabio-fognini-climbs-rankings-212554&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi77vqctJDiAhVd4HMBHWl_CUYQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2vO38gK_1u4IKTw8EezypB">World number one Djokovic</a> was untroubled as he beat Jeremy Chardy 6-1 7-6(2) to set up a clash against Marin Cilic after the Croatian battled past Serbian Laslo Djere 4-6 6-3 6-2.

Spaniard Nadal, who later this month will aim for a 12th French Open, swept past unseeded American Frances Tiafoe 6-3 6-4 while defending champion Alexander Zverev defeated Hubert Hurkacz 3-6 6-4 6-4.

 
&nbsp;

Roger Federer survived two match points against French maverick Gael Monfils to extend his claycourt comeback and reach the quarter-finals of the Madrid Open on Thursday.

Roger Federer survived two match points against French maverick Gael Monfils to extend his claycourt comeback and reach the quarter-finals of the Madrid Open on Thursday. He was joined in the last eight by five-times Madrid champion Rafael Nadal and world number one Novak Djokovic. The evergreen Federer did not drop a game in a dominant first set but was dragged into an intense battle by an inspired Monfils before prevailing 6-0, 4-6, 7-6(3). World number three Federer, playing his first tournament on clay for three years as he prepares for the French Open, surrendered the initiative after his brisk start and was in deep trouble in the third set when he trailed 4-1. Federer struggled with his timing on occasions in breezy, sunny conditions and swatted a ball angrily over the stands when he dropped serve at the start of the decider. But the 37-year-old Swiss broke back in the seventh game with a stunning sliced backhand return. Monfils earned a match point at 5-6 on the Federer serve with an ice-cool backhand pass, but Federer followed in a second serve and bounced away from a smash. Federer saved another match point to set up a tiebreak and he proved unstoppable as he swept to his 1,200th match win. Austrian Dominic Thiem, a beaten finalist in Madrid last year, awaits in the next round after he beat Italian Fabio Fognini. "I think Gael did a nice job of not being frustrated losing the first set. I lost five games in a row and it didn't look good for a while but I hung in. There were some highly stressful moments but I mixed it up nicely", Federer said. Federer's fellow Swiss Stan Wawrinka, champion at Roland Garros in 2015, continued to produce some vintage form as he beat Japan's Kei Nishikori 6-3 7-6(3). World number one Djokovic was untroubled as he beat Jeremy Chardy 6-1 7-6(2) to set up a clash against Marin Cilic after the Croatian battled past Serbian Laslo Djere 4-6 6-3 6-2. Spaniard Nadal, who later this month will aim for a 12th French Open, swept past unseeded American Frances Tiafoe 6-3 6-4 while defending champion Alexander Zverev defeated Hubert Hurkacz 3-6 6-4 6-4.

Roger Federer survives match points to beat Gael Monfils; reaches Madrid Open quarter-finals

Greatest comebacks in sports

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Roger+Federer">Roger Federer</a> defeated a hobbling John Isner 6-1 6-4 for his 101th career title at the Miami Open on Sunday.

Holder Isner struggled to continue late in the second set, hampered by pain in his left foot.

Federer, who won his fourth Miami title, broke Isner three times in a blazing opening set.

"It was a dream start, relaxing my nerves," the Swiss, 37, said in a courtside interview.

But the American fought back in the second, levelling the set at 3-3 and 4-4 before the pain made it difficult to continue. Federer took the final two games for the victory.

"What a week its been for me," said the fourth seed. "I'm just so happy right now. It's unbelievable. I played here in 1999 for the first time and here I am in 2019. It means a lot to me."

Only American Jimmy Connors, with 109, has more career singles titles than Federer.

Isner began to feel pain in the first set.

"I started feeling some pain on the top of my foot, and it didn't go away. It only kept getting worse," he said. "I have never had anything like this before, ever."

Master Federer

Even before the injury slowed the seventh-seeded American, Federer was the master, tempering Isner's big serves and winning 32 of 35 points on his own serve

"Roger was too good," Isner said. "In the first five games, I was fine. Nothing was bothering me. He was all over me."

Federer elected to receive to open the match and the strategy paid off as he broke Isner.

The American held on the third game but Federer took the next four.

Isner played much better in the second set but in the end the pain became too much, even with a medical examination after the seventh game.

"I knew at 3-4, whatever, I knew I wasn't going to win. I can tell you that much," said Isner.

"Which is a weird feeling, you know, being on serve in the finals of a match and knowing that I wasn't going to win."

Federer also sensed the American was in trouble.

"I knew it was going to be something that was not right. The way he was moving was not well," Federer said.

"But at the same time I have got to make him work hard, keep doing my things."

The title was Federer's second of the year, coming after his historic 100th win in Doha in February.

Roger Federer defeated a hobbling John Isner 6-1 6-4 for his 101th career title at the Miami Open on Sunday. Holder Isner struggled to continue late in the second set, hampered by pain in his left foot.

Roger Federer defeated a hobbling John Isner 6-1 6-4 for his 101th career title at the Miami Open on Sunday. Holder Isner struggled to continue late in the second set, hampered by pain in his left foot. Federer, who won his fourth Miami title, broke Isner three times in a blazing opening set. "It was a dream start, relaxing my nerves," the Swiss, 37, said in a courtside interview. But the American fought back in the second, levelling the set at 3-3 and 4-4 before the pain made it difficult to continue. Federer took the final two games for the victory. "What a week its been for me," said the fourth seed. "I'm just so happy right now. It's unbelievable. I played here in 1999 for the first time and here I am in 2019. It means a lot to me." Only American Jimmy Connors, with 109, has more career singles titles than Federer. Isner began to feel pain in the first set. "I started feeling some pain on the top of my foot, and it didn't go away. It only kept getting worse," he said. "I have never had anything like this before, ever." Master Federer Even before the injury slowed the seventh-seeded American, Federer was the master, tempering Isner's big serves and winning 32 of 35 points on his own serve "Roger was too good," Isner said. "In the first five games, I was fine. Nothing was bothering me. He was all over me." Federer elected to receive to open the match and the strategy paid off as he broke Isner. The American held on the third game but Federer took the next four. Isner played much better in the second set but in the end the pain became too much, even with a medical examination after the seventh game. "I knew at 3-4, whatever, I knew I wasn't going to win. I can tell you that much," said Isner. "Which is a weird feeling, you know, being on serve in the finals of a match and knowing that I wasn't going to win." Federer also sensed the American was in trouble. "I knew it was going to be something that was not right. The way he was moving was not well," Federer said. "But at the same time I have got to make him work hard, keep doing my things." The title was Federer's second of the year, coming after his historic 100th win in Doha in February.

Roger Federer downs injured John Isner in Miami for 101st career title

Roger Federer cruised into his fifth Miami Open final with an impressive 6-2, 6-4 victory against Canadian teenager Denis Shapovalov on Friday.

Federer was dominant in service and broke the 19-year-old three times to set up a final with American John Isner, who beat 18-year-old Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime 7-6(3), 7-6(4).

Federer took control of his semi-final early, breaking Shapovalov in the third game as his young opponent shanked a backhand.

Federer broke again in the third game of the second set and served his way into the final against defending champion Isner, who is yet to drop a set in the tournament this year.

Isner, however, had to battle back in both sets against the 18-year-old Canadian, who led 5-3 in each set but was unable to seal the win.

"For sure (it was) nerves," said Auger-Aliassime, the youngest men's semi-finalist in the tournament's 35-year history. "It's like I caught a virus or something. I don't know. I couldn't put a second serve anymore.

"Even the first serve, if you put it in, you don't have to hit the second serve. That's just very tough to swallow."

Auger-Aliassime had appeared unbothered by being on the big stage against the crowd favourite playing attacking, aggressive tennis that rewarded him with the early break in each set.

Yet serving for the set, the 18-year-old's inexperience and nerves were exposed when he produced three of his seven double faults and opened the door for the 33-year-old American who went on to take the first tiebreak 7-3.

Auger-Aliassime regrouped and was on the attack again in the second, grabbing the early break to nose in front 4-2.

Again serving for the set at 5-3, he let Isner back in the contest as the American got back on serve with the help of yet another Auger-Aliassime double fault.

While Auger-Aliassime was misfiring, Isner's serve was booming, as he blasted 21 aces past his opponent.

"I think it (experience) may have helped a little bit," said Isner.

"But you see a lot of times where someone can have all the experience in the world or some teams can have all the experience in the world and they don't come through against an inexperienced opponent.

"Maybe he was a little bit fatigued because he came through qualifying. So could have been a little bit of inexperience and maybe a little bit of fatigue, also."

Roger Federer cruised into his fifth Miami Open final with an impressive 6-2, 6-4 victory against Canadian teenager Denis Shapovalov on Friday. Federer was dominant in service and broke the 19-year-old three times to set up a final with American John Isner, who beat 18-year-old Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime 7-6(3), 7-6(4).

Roger Federer cruised into his fifth Miami Open final with an impressive 6-2, 6-4 victory against Canadian teenager Denis Shapovalov on Friday. Federer was dominant in service and broke the 19-year-old three times to set up a final with American John Isner, who beat 18-year-old Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime 7-6(3), 7-6(4). Federer took control of his semi-final early, breaking Shapovalov in the third game as his young opponent shanked a backhand. Federer broke again in the third game of the second set and served his way into the final against defending champion Isner, who is yet to drop a set in the tournament this year. Isner, however, had to battle back in both sets against the 18-year-old Canadian, who led 5-3 in each set but was unable to seal the win. "For sure (it was) nerves," said Auger-Aliassime, the youngest men's semi-finalist in the tournament's 35-year history. "It's like I caught a virus or something. I don't know. I couldn't put a second serve anymore. "Even the first serve, if you put it in, you don't have to hit the second serve. That's just very tough to swallow." Auger-Aliassime had appeared unbothered by being on the big stage against the crowd favourite playing attacking, aggressive tennis that rewarded him with the early break in each set. Yet serving for the set, the 18-year-old's inexperience and nerves were exposed when he produced three of his seven double faults and opened the door for the 33-year-old American who went on to take the first tiebreak 7-3. Auger-Aliassime regrouped and was on the attack again in the second, grabbing the early break to nose in front 4-2. Again serving for the set at 5-3, he let Isner back in the contest as the American got back on serve with the help of yet another Auger-Aliassime double fault. While Auger-Aliassime was misfiring, Isner's serve was booming, as he blasted 21 aces past his opponent. "I think it (experience) may have helped a little bit," said Isner. "But you see a lot of times where someone can have all the experience in the world or some teams can have all the experience in the world and they don't come through against an inexperienced opponent. "Maybe he was a little bit fatigued because he came through qualifying. So could have been a little bit of inexperience and maybe a little bit of fatigue, also."

Miami Open: Roger Federer to face John Isner in final

Former world number one <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/miami-open-roger-federer-to-face-john-isner-in-final-206659">Roger Federer </a>said that he is excited to play American John Isner in the finals of Miami Open and compared the summit clash against the big-serving Isner to a goalkeeper in a penalty shoot-out.&nbsp;

Switzerland's star Federer said, "I know what to expect, that he will not miss many serves. He's got an amazing serve, one of the best in the game forever so, it's really hard to play against him."

"I honestly love big servers to watch them if they're gonna ace every second or third point for me that's exciting because it's like a penalty shootout in soccer."

"For me I'll be the goalie on Sunday. I'll try my very best and try to get as many balls back as possible and just hope we'll have a good match."

"I'm excited to play John because he really had a tough match against Felix today that was awesome performance by him."&nbsp;

Three-time Miami champion Federer produced a 6-2, 6-4 masterclass at Hard Rock Stadium against teenager Denis Shapovalov in the semi-final.&nbsp;

Federer took control of his semi-final early, breaking Shapovalov in the third game as his young opponent shanked a backhand.&nbsp;

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🇨🇭 <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> has his strategy set for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MiamiOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MiamiOpen</a> final.
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Federer broke again in the third game of the second set and served his way into the final against defending champion Isner, who is yet to drop a set in the tournament this year.&nbsp;

Former world number one Roger Federer said that he is excited to play American John Isner in the finals of Miami Open and compared the summit clash against the big-serving Isner to a goalkeeper in a penalty shoot-out.

Former world number one Roger Federer said that he is excited to play American John Isner in the finals of Miami Open and compared the summit clash against the big-serving Isner to a goalkeeper in a penalty shoot-out. Switzerland's star Federer said, "I know what to expect, that he will not miss many serves. He's got an amazing serve, one of the best in the game forever so, it's really hard to play against him." "I honestly love big servers to watch them if they're gonna ace every second or third point for me that's exciting because it's like a penalty shootout in soccer." "For me I'll be the goalie on Sunday. I'll try my very best and try to get as many balls back as possible and just hope we'll have a good match." "I'm excited to play John because he really had a tough match against Felix today that was awesome performance by him." Three-time Miami champion Federer produced a 6-2, 6-4 masterclass at Hard Rock Stadium against teenager Denis Shapovalov in the semi-final. Federer took control of his semi-final early, breaking Shapovalov in the third game as his young opponent shanked a backhand. 🇨🇭 @rogerfederer has his strategy set for the #MiamiOpen final. — ATP Tour (@ATP_Tour) March 30, 2019 × Federer broke again in the third game of the second set and served his way into the final against defending champion Isner, who is yet to drop a set in the tournament this year.

Roger Federer: 'Will be a goalie' against John Isner in Miami Open final

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Roger+Federer">Roger Federer</a> gained a measure of revenge against Wimbledon nemesis Kevin Anderson, beating the South African 6-0, 6-4 at the Miami Open on Thursday to set up a mouthwatering semi-final against a player barely half his age.

Federer will have little time to rest his 37-year-old legs before his clash against 19-year-old Denis Shapovalov, the highly regarded Canadian talent tipped for future Grand Slam success.

Twentieth seed Shapovalov won his battle of 'Next Gen' hustlers 6-7(5), 6-4, 6-2 against American Frances Tiafoe.

Shapovalov is one of two Canadian teenagers in the semis, with 18-year-old Felix Auger-Aliassime to play defending champion John Isner in the daytime, before Federer and Shapovalov face off under lights.

Federer has won 100 career titles, 100 more than Shapovalov, and was looking forward to the pair's first match-up.

"He's one of the big shotmakers in the game. I love his forehand," Federer said.

"It's an exciting draw for John and for myself here, playing these young guys. They are not just young, but they are very good, as well."

The Swiss raced through the first set against Anderson, the man who came from two sets down to beat him in a quarter-final marathon at Wimbledon last year.

Anderson took nine games to get on the board but eventually found his groove and broke back with a series of return winners to level at 3-3 in the second set.

Federer struck the decisive blow at 4-4, however, winning a marathon game of 22 points and clinching the break with a fortuitous backhand return down the line.

"I hit it late and that's why it went short," he said of the shot. "That's not what I wanted to do but maybe what it took. I got a bit lucky there at the end."

Canadian tennis on the rise

Shapovalov broke Tiafoe four times and could hardly stop smiling at the prospect of playing Federer.

"It's definitely a matchup I have been looking forward to my whole life," he said.

"It's going to be a dream come true to play him in such a big event. The stakes are so high, semi-final of a Masters 1000 against your idol, it's just a dream come true."

Shapovalov also spoke about what appears to be a bright future for Canadian tennis.

He and Auger-Aliassime are in the Miami semis less than two weeks after 18-year-old Bianca Andreescu won the WTA tournament at Indian Wells.

"It's kind of crazy to share this with Felix," Shapovalov said.

"I was just thinking in the locker room how far back we go, from the national groupings when we were eight and nine years old, so it's so crazy to see how far we have come.

"It's really great to see him doing well. Honestly, it's not a shocker for me that he's gone this far, that he's doing so well."

Roger Federer gained a measure of revenge against Wimbledon nemesis Kevin Anderson, beating the South African 6-0, 6-4 at the Miami Open on Thursday to set up a mouthwatering semi-final against a player barely half his age.

Roger Federer gained a measure of revenge against Wimbledon nemesis Kevin Anderson, beating the South African 6-0, 6-4 at the Miami Open on Thursday to set up a mouthwatering semi-final against a player barely half his age. Federer will have little time to rest his 37-year-old legs before his clash against 19-year-old Denis Shapovalov, the highly regarded Canadian talent tipped for future Grand Slam success. Twentieth seed Shapovalov won his battle of 'Next Gen' hustlers 6-7(5), 6-4, 6-2 against American Frances Tiafoe. Shapovalov is one of two Canadian teenagers in the semis, with 18-year-old Felix Auger-Aliassime to play defending champion John Isner in the daytime, before Federer and Shapovalov face off under lights. Federer has won 100 career titles, 100 more than Shapovalov, and was looking forward to the pair's first match-up. "He's one of the big shotmakers in the game. I love his forehand," Federer said. "It's an exciting draw for John and for myself here, playing these young guys. They are not just young, but they are very good, as well." The Swiss raced through the first set against Anderson, the man who came from two sets down to beat him in a quarter-final marathon at Wimbledon last year. Anderson took nine games to get on the board but eventually found his groove and broke back with a series of return winners to level at 3-3 in the second set. Federer struck the decisive blow at 4-4, however, winning a marathon game of 22 points and clinching the break with a fortuitous backhand return down the line. "I hit it late and that's why it went short," he said of the shot. "That's not what I wanted to do but maybe what it took. I got a bit lucky there at the end." Canadian tennis on the rise Shapovalov broke Tiafoe four times and could hardly stop smiling at the prospect of playing Federer. "It's definitely a matchup I have been looking forward to my whole life," he said. "It's going to be a dream come true to play him in such a big event. The stakes are so high, semi-final of a Masters 1000 against your idol, it's just a dream come true." Shapovalov also spoke about what appears to be a bright future for Canadian tennis. He and Auger-Aliassime are in the Miami semis less than two weeks after 18-year-old Bianca Andreescu won the WTA tournament at Indian Wells. "It's kind of crazy to share this with Felix," Shapovalov said. "I was just thinking in the locker room how far back we go, from the national groupings when we were eight and nine years old, so it's so crazy to see how far we have come. "It's really great to see him doing well. Honestly, it's not a shocker for me that he's gone this far, that he's doing so well."

Miami Open: Roger Federer beats Kevin Anderson to set up Denis Shapovalov clash

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