A clinical Roger Federer took a confident step towards a fourth Miami Open title on Wednesday, easing past 13th-seeded Russian Daniil Medvedev 6-4, 6-2 to book his spot in the quarter-finals.

Federer, a winner of 100 career titles, can look back on dozens of brilliant performances and the Swiss maestro could add his ruthless fourth-round win over the red hot Russian to that list.

With 17 match wins, no player has had more success this year than the lanky Russian but Medvedev had no answers for a rampaging Federer, who needed just 61 minutes to reach the last eight, where he will take on towering sixth-seeded South African Kevin Anderson.

"There were really long rallies, tactical points. The big points went my way and that was the difference," said Federer.

"I'm serving great this week and hope I can keep it up in the next round."

The match got off to a routine start until Federer took control.

With Medvedev 4-3 up in the first, the 20-times grand slam champion swept the next five games to take the opener and a 2-0 lead in the second.

Medvedev halted the bleeding with a hold at 2-1 but there was no stopping the fourth-seeded Federer who claimed a second break to go up 5-2 and then had an easy hold to seal a business-like victory.

The Russian could not convert any of his three breakpoints, while Federer took all three of his.

Federer's fourth-round contest had been scheduled for Tuesday but was moved due to rain, giving the 37-year-old Swiss little time to recover before facing the hard-hitting Anderson, who was a 7-5 winner over Australian Jordan Thompson.

Defending champion John Isner came out on the winning side of two tie-breakers in his afternoon battle with Roberto Bautista Agut to advance 7-6(1), 7-6(5) to the semi-finals of the tournament, where he has yet to drop a set.

The seventh-seeded American thumped 25 aces to see off the Spaniard and will next face either 18-year-old Canadian Felix Auger Aliassime or defensive baseliner Borna Coric, who play their quarter-final in the night session on Wednesday.

A clinical Roger Federer took a confident step towards a fourth Miami Open title on Wednesday, easing past 13th-seeded Russian Daniil Medvedev 6-4, 6-2 to book his spot in the quarter-finals.

A clinical Roger Federer took a confident step towards a fourth Miami Open title on Wednesday, easing past 13th-seeded Russian Daniil Medvedev 6-4, 6-2 to book his spot in the quarter-finals. Federer, a winner of 100 career titles, can look back on dozens of brilliant performances and the Swiss maestro could add his ruthless fourth-round win over the red hot Russian to that list. With 17 match wins, no player has had more success this year than the lanky Russian but Medvedev had no answers for a rampaging Federer, who needed just 61 minutes to reach the last eight, where he will take on towering sixth-seeded South African Kevin Anderson. "There were really long rallies, tactical points. The big points went my way and that was the difference," said Federer. "I'm serving great this week and hope I can keep it up in the next round." The match got off to a routine start until Federer took control. With Medvedev 4-3 up in the first, the 20-times grand slam champion swept the next five games to take the opener and a 2-0 lead in the second. Medvedev halted the bleeding with a hold at 2-1 but there was no stopping the fourth-seeded Federer who claimed a second break to go up 5-2 and then had an easy hold to seal a business-like victory. The Russian could not convert any of his three breakpoints, while Federer took all three of his. Federer's fourth-round contest had been scheduled for Tuesday but was moved due to rain, giving the 37-year-old Swiss little time to recover before facing the hard-hitting Anderson, who was a 7-5 winner over Australian Jordan Thompson. Defending champion John Isner came out on the winning side of two tie-breakers in his afternoon battle with Roberto Bautista Agut to advance 7-6(1), 7-6(5) to the semi-finals of the tournament, where he has yet to drop a set. The seventh-seeded American thumped 25 aces to see off the Spaniard and will next face either 18-year-old Canadian Felix Auger Aliassime or defensive baseliner Borna Coric, who play their quarter-final in the night session on Wednesday.

Miami Open: Roger Federer eases past Daniil Medvedev into quarters

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Roger+Federer">Roger Federer</a> overcame a sluggish start to defeat Filip Krajinovic 7-5, 6-3 and Kevin Anderson's booming serve proved too much for Joao Sousa as they advanced to the fourth round of the Miami Open on Monday.

Serb Krajinovic broke Federer to jump to an early 2-1 lead and it looked like an upset could be in the works against the 20-times Grand Slam champion.

But fourth seed Federer broke back in the next game and seized the momentum when he blasted a cross-court forehand winner to break Krajinovic again and take the first set.

The Swiss coasted after that, thanks to an overpowering serve that Krajinovic struggled to read.

Federer, 37, said he had already put his loss to Dominic Thiem in the BNP Paribas Open final at Indian Wells last week behind him.

"Nowadays I am able to flush it out quickly. I was the worst at it when I was a teenager... right after it was all over I would cry and be so sad and disappointed," he said.

"I wasn't an angry person really, it just broke my heart.

"Nowadays I feel like 'look, I gave it all I had'. Thiem came up with the goods, I maybe didn't. That's it, it's over."

Next up for Federer is Russian Daniil Medvedev after the 13th seed defeated American qualifier Reilly Opelka 7-6(5), 6-7(5), 7-6(0) in a match that included 41 total aces.

Another big server, Anderson had 13 aces of his own with just one double-fault to seal a 6-4, 7-6(6) victory over Portuguese Sousa earlier in the day.

The towering South African sixth seed, showing no ill-effects from the arm injury that hampered him earlier this year, will be a heavy favourite when he faces unseeded Australian Jordan Thompson, who beat Grigor Dimitrov 7-5, 7-5.

Canadian teenager Denis Shapovalov dispatched 21-year-old Russian Andrey Rublev 6-3, 7-6(5) in the pair's first career meeting as the sun set on a warm Florida evening.

Next up for Shapovalov is a mouthwatering clash with another fellow young gun, 20-year-old Stefanos Tsitsipas.

The Greek world number 10 was never broken on his way to a 6-4, 6-4 win over Argentina's Leonardo Mayer in the night session.

American Frances Tiafoe battled back to defeat Spain's David Ferrer 5-7, 6-3, 6-3 to earn his spot in the fourth round, where he will face another defensive specialist, Belgian David Goffin.

Roger Federer overcame a sluggish start to defeat Filip Krajinovic 7-5, 6-3 and Kevin Anderson's booming serve proved too much for Joao Sousa as they advanced to the fourth round of the Miami Open on Monday.

Roger Federer overcame a sluggish start to defeat Filip Krajinovic 7-5, 6-3 and Kevin Anderson's booming serve proved too much for Joao Sousa as they advanced to the fourth round of the Miami Open on Monday. Serb Krajinovic broke Federer to jump to an early 2-1 lead and it looked like an upset could be in the works against the 20-times Grand Slam champion. But fourth seed Federer broke back in the next game and seized the momentum when he blasted a cross-court forehand winner to break Krajinovic again and take the first set. The Swiss coasted after that, thanks to an overpowering serve that Krajinovic struggled to read. Federer, 37, said he had already put his loss to Dominic Thiem in the BNP Paribas Open final at Indian Wells last week behind him. "Nowadays I am able to flush it out quickly. I was the worst at it when I was a teenager... right after it was all over I would cry and be so sad and disappointed," he said. "I wasn't an angry person really, it just broke my heart. "Nowadays I feel like 'look, I gave it all I had'. Thiem came up with the goods, I maybe didn't. That's it, it's over." Next up for Federer is Russian Daniil Medvedev after the 13th seed defeated American qualifier Reilly Opelka 7-6(5), 6-7(5), 7-6(0) in a match that included 41 total aces. Another big server, Anderson had 13 aces of his own with just one double-fault to seal a 6-4, 7-6(6) victory over Portuguese Sousa earlier in the day. The towering South African sixth seed, showing no ill-effects from the arm injury that hampered him earlier this year, will be a heavy favourite when he faces unseeded Australian Jordan Thompson, who beat Grigor Dimitrov 7-5, 7-5. Canadian teenager Denis Shapovalov dispatched 21-year-old Russian Andrey Rublev 6-3, 7-6(5) in the pair's first career meeting as the sun set on a warm Florida evening. Next up for Shapovalov is a mouthwatering clash with another fellow young gun, 20-year-old Stefanos Tsitsipas. The Greek world number 10 was never broken on his way to a 6-4, 6-4 win over Argentina's Leonardo Mayer in the night session. American Frances Tiafoe battled back to defeat Spain's David Ferrer 5-7, 6-3, 6-3 to earn his spot in the fourth round, where he will face another defensive specialist, Belgian David Goffin.

Miami Open: Roger Federer, Kevin Anderson advance to fourth round

Roger Federer rallied from a set down to beat Moldovan surprise package Radu Albot 4-6, 7-5, 6-3 in a stuttering start to the 20-times Grand Slam champion's Miami Open campaign on Saturday.&nbsp;

Federer, beaten by Dominic Thiem in last week's BNP Paribas Open final, smashed 14 aces and broke Albot twice to advance to the third round but it was far from plain sailing for the 37-year-old against the world number 46. After dropping the first set, Federer broke Albot while leading 6-5 in the second with a backhand volley winner.

Albot could not convert a break point in the deciding set tied a 3-3, and the Swiss took command from there to wrap up a match that lasted two hours and 10 minutes.

Three-times Miami champion Federer finished with 38 winners but had to overcame 41 unforced errors to defeat Albot, who earned an ovation from the crowd for his efforts.

Earlier on Saturday, South Africa’s Kevin Anderson made a winning return to competition with a 6-4, 3-6, 6-3 victory over rising Spaniard Jaume Munar. After more than two months away from the court with an elbow injury, the world number seven smashed 17 aces en route to the second round win over the 21-year-old Munar.

It was Anderson's first tournament appearance since the Australian Open in January and he said he was happy with the way his elbow felt.

"To get through in three sets, it felt really good to be back out there. I’m happy with how the elbow responded. I feel like I’m hitting the ball great," the sixth seed added.

“It’s always different playing matches than hitting in practice, but I’ve been able to up my load and how much I’m able to serve. That’s really encouraging and that’s why I felt good coming into this week.

“I’ve been able to do everything but hit serves recently. I always had the confidence that as soon as I got over that hurdle, I was going to find my form pretty quickly.”

Two of Russia’s young prospects, Karen Khachanov and Daniil Medvedev, were also Saturday winners.

The 10th seed Khachanov beat Australian Jordan Thompson 6-2, 6-3 while his friend Medvedev, the 13th seed, toppled France’s Adrian Mannarino 6-2 6-1.

Eighth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas easily beat Mackenzie McDonald 7-6(4), 6-1. In other early action, Belgian David Goffin, the 18th seed, defeated Spaniard Pablo Andujar 6-4 6-1, while Canadian 20th seed Denis Shapovalov came from a set down to beat Britain’s Dan Evans 4-6, 6-1, 6-3.

Roger Federer rallied from a set down to beat Moldovan surprise package Radu Albot 4-6, 7-5, 6-3 in a stuttering start to the 20-times Grand Slam champion's Miami Open campaign on Saturday.

Roger Federer rallied from a set down to beat Moldovan surprise package Radu Albot 4-6, 7-5, 6-3 in a stuttering start to the 20-times Grand Slam champion's Miami Open campaign on Saturday. Federer, beaten by Dominic Thiem in last week's BNP Paribas Open final, smashed 14 aces and broke Albot twice to advance to the third round but it was far from plain sailing for the 37-year-old against the world number 46. After dropping the first set, Federer broke Albot while leading 6-5 in the second with a backhand volley winner. Albot could not convert a break point in the deciding set tied a 3-3, and the Swiss took command from there to wrap up a match that lasted two hours and 10 minutes. Three-times Miami champion Federer finished with 38 winners but had to overcame 41 unforced errors to defeat Albot, who earned an ovation from the crowd for his efforts. Earlier on Saturday, South Africa’s Kevin Anderson made a winning return to competition with a 6-4, 3-6, 6-3 victory over rising Spaniard Jaume Munar. After more than two months away from the court with an elbow injury, the world number seven smashed 17 aces en route to the second round win over the 21-year-old Munar. It was Anderson's first tournament appearance since the Australian Open in January and he said he was happy with the way his elbow felt. "To get through in three sets, it felt really good to be back out there. I’m happy with how the elbow responded. I feel like I’m hitting the ball great," the sixth seed added. “It’s always different playing matches than hitting in practice, but I’ve been able to up my load and how much I’m able to serve. That’s really encouraging and that’s why I felt good coming into this week. “I’ve been able to do everything but hit serves recently. I always had the confidence that as soon as I got over that hurdle, I was going to find my form pretty quickly.” Two of Russia’s young prospects, Karen Khachanov and Daniil Medvedev, were also Saturday winners. The 10th seed Khachanov beat Australian Jordan Thompson 6-2, 6-3 while his friend Medvedev, the 13th seed, toppled France’s Adrian Mannarino 6-2 6-1. Eighth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas easily beat Mackenzie McDonald 7-6(4), 6-1. In other early action, Belgian David Goffin, the 18th seed, defeated Spaniard Pablo Andujar 6-4 6-1, while Canadian 20th seed Denis Shapovalov came from a set down to beat Britain’s Dan Evans 4-6, 6-1, 6-3.

Roger Federer fights back to beat Radu Albot in Miami Open

World number one Novak Djokovic dismissed any suggestion of friction with Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal as tennis politics spilt over to the Miami Open.

Tension between the three biggest names in men's tennis appeared on the rise after Djokovic, president of the ATP Player Council, rebuffed a request by Federer to meet during the BNP Paribas in Indian Wells earlier this month to discuss the future of ATP chairman Chris Kermode.

Despite a tenure which brought record prize money and growth, Kermode was ousted as ATP chief when players' representatives on the ATP Board failed to endorse an extension of the Englishman's contract.

As head of the 10 member Player Council Djokovic had been pushing for change while Federer and Nadal backed Kermode or at the least felt the issue needed more discussion.

"I saw Roger today, we were in the opening ceremony cutting the ribbon on center court," said Djokovic during his pre-tournament press conference on Wednesday. "We had a small chat there was no time to talk about the political stuff.

"That is hopefully something we will have time in the next few days to go through.

"It's not necessary for you guys to create any tensions between us. In contrary I have a very good relations with both of them."

With Kermode's status decided Federer said on Wednesday that he is still willing to talk to Djokovic but with the decision made saw no urgency to meet.

"A lot of stuff has been decided already so we'll see if this week is going to happen or not but we are not chasing each other at this point," said Federer. "If it happens, it happens."

For his part Djokovic appeared eager to wash his hands of the entire affair reminding everyone that it was the three players representatives on the ATP board that voted not to renew Kermode's contract and not the Player Council, which was only part of the discussion.

The Serb added that if Federer and Nadal have opinions they were welcome to share them with the Player Council at any time.

"The player council is only part of the structure," said Djokovic. "We are not part of the board or deciding anything that is voted on later on.

"We are in consultation and collaboration with our player board representatives.

"Board members are the ones voting on what they think is appropriate for the players side.

"Federer and Nadal have been icons of our sport for so many years and their opinions are extremely important to everyone.

"If they want to be active and part of it, either officially or unofficially, I think it's only positive news for us."

World number one Novak Djokovic dismissed any suggestion of friction with Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal as tennis politics spilt over to the Miami Open. Tension between the three biggest names in men's tennis appeared on the rise after Djokovic, president of the ATP Player Council, rebuffed a request by Federer to meet during the BNP Paribas in Indian Wells earlier this month to discuss the future of ATP chairman Chris Kermode.

World number one Novak Djokovic dismissed any suggestion of friction with Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal as tennis politics spilt over to the Miami Open. Tension between the three biggest names in men's tennis appeared on the rise after Djokovic, president of the ATP Player Council, rebuffed a request by Federer to meet during the BNP Paribas in Indian Wells earlier this month to discuss the future of ATP chairman Chris Kermode. Despite a tenure which brought record prize money and growth, Kermode was ousted as ATP chief when players' representatives on the ATP Board failed to endorse an extension of the Englishman's contract. As head of the 10 member Player Council Djokovic had been pushing for change while Federer and Nadal backed Kermode or at the least felt the issue needed more discussion. "I saw Roger today, we were in the opening ceremony cutting the ribbon on center court," said Djokovic during his pre-tournament press conference on Wednesday. "We had a small chat there was no time to talk about the political stuff. "That is hopefully something we will have time in the next few days to go through. "It's not necessary for you guys to create any tensions between us. In contrary I have a very good relations with both of them." With Kermode's status decided Federer said on Wednesday that he is still willing to talk to Djokovic but with the decision made saw no urgency to meet. "A lot of stuff has been decided already so we'll see if this week is going to happen or not but we are not chasing each other at this point," said Federer. "If it happens, it happens." For his part Djokovic appeared eager to wash his hands of the entire affair reminding everyone that it was the three players representatives on the ATP board that voted not to renew Kermode's contract and not the Player Council, which was only part of the discussion. The Serb added that if Federer and Nadal have opinions they were welcome to share them with the Player Council at any time. "The player council is only part of the structure," said Djokovic. "We are not part of the board or deciding anything that is voted on later on. "We are in consultation and collaboration with our player board representatives. "Board members are the ones voting on what they think is appropriate for the players side. "Federer and Nadal have been icons of our sport for so many years and their opinions are extremely important to everyone. "If they want to be active and part of it, either officially or unofficially, I think it's only positive news for us."

Novak Djokovic ready to play tennis not politics at Miami Open

Dominic Thiem defeated Roger Federer 3-6, 6-3, 7-5 to win the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells, denying Federer a record sixth title in the desert while claiming the biggest title of his career.

The 25-year-old Austrian, ranked eighth in the world, trailed 4-3 and 5-4 in the third set before breaking Federer with a forehand winner to go up 6-5.

Thiem earned the crucial break in the 11th game of the final set. He sealed the match after two hours and two minutes when Federer's backhand found the net and will now return to a career-high ranking of fourth in the world.

It was the second year in a row that Federer was denied in the Indian Wells final. In 2018 he missed out on three championship points as he fell to Argentina's Juan Martin del Potro in the title match.

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Thiem/<a href="https://twitter.com/ThiemDomi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ThiemDomi</a> /(🎥<a href="https://twitter.com/TennisTV?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TennisTV</a> ) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BNPPO19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BNPPO19</a> <a href="https://t.co/Gt7WQ6ukOf">pic.twitter.com/Gt7WQ6ukOf</a>
— doublefault28 (@doublefault28) <a href="https://twitter.com/doublefault28/status/1107446957512032256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Federer, fresh off a remarkable 100th career title in Dubai, remains tied with Novak Djokovic for the most Indian Wells victories with five.

By virtue of this win, Thiem became first Austrian to win a Masters 1000 title since Thomas Muster in Miami in 1997.

Dominic Thiem defeated Roger Federer 3-6, 6-3, 7-5 to win the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells, denying Federer a record sixth title in the desert while claiming the biggest title of his career.

Dominic Thiem defeated Roger Federer 3-6, 6-3, 7-5 to win the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells, denying Federer a record sixth title in the desert while claiming the biggest title of his career. The 25-year-old Austrian, ranked eighth in the world, trailed 4-3 and 5-4 in the third set before breaking Federer with a forehand winner to go up 6-5. Thiem earned the crucial break in the 11th game of the final set. He sealed the match after two hours and two minutes when Federer's backhand found the net and will now return to a career-high ranking of fourth in the world. It was the second year in a row that Federer was denied in the Indian Wells final. In 2018 he missed out on three championship points as he fell to Argentina's Juan Martin del Potro in the title match. Thiem/@ThiemDomi /(🎥@TennisTV ) #BNPPO19 pic.twitter.com/Gt7WQ6ukOf — doublefault28 (@doublefault28) March 18, 2019 × Federer, fresh off a remarkable 100th career title in Dubai, remains tied with Novak Djokovic for the most Indian Wells victories with five. By virtue of this win, Thiem became first Austrian to win a Masters 1000 title since Thomas Muster in Miami in 1997.

Indian Wells: Dominic Thiem beats Roger Federer to win maiden Masters title

Dominic Thiem denied Roger Federer a record sixth Indian Wells title and 101st tournament victory as he defeated the former world number one in the summit clash.&nbsp;

Austrian tennis player <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-wells-dominic-thiem-beats-roger-federer-to-win-maiden-masters-title-203955">Thiem claimed his first Masters 1000 title</a> after coming from a set down to defeat Federer 3-6, 6-3, 7-5 in BNP Paribas Open on Sunday.&nbsp;

The 25-year-old Thiem fell on his back and covered his face with his hands when Federer netted on match point.&nbsp;

"I mean for me it's unreal," said Thiem after winning the match.&nbsp;

"I was in the whole match in the zone. I mean, I enjoyed every second of it and I think I had to get used to Roger (Federer) game because in the first set he was playing amazing and completely different than my opponents before in this tournament," Thiem said.&nbsp;

"I was struggling a little bit but then I was fighting my way into the match."

"I got also a little bit lucky when I saved his break point early in the second set and then I think it was a very good match until the end and the last games were amazing and of course I was a little bit on nerve to serve it out," he added.&nbsp;

Watch Thiem's reaction after winning the match:

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That feeling of winning your first <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATPMasters1000?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ATPMasters1000</a> title! 🏆 
 
Congrats on winning the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BNPPO19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BNPPO19</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/ThiemDomi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ThiemDomi</a>! 👏 
 
Watch live streams on <a href="https://twitter.com/TennisTV?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TennisTV</a>. <a href="https://t.co/WJpWwCFZfX">pic.twitter.com/WJpWwCFZfX</a>
— ATP Tour (@ATP_Tour) <a href="https://twitter.com/ATP_Tour/status/1107455229115551745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Thiem had lost in his previous two ATP Masters 1000 finals.

But the 25-year-old Austrian's solid serve held up against Federer as it had throughout the tournament.&nbsp;

Dominic Thiem denied Roger Federer a record sixth Indian Wells title and 101st tournament victory as he defeated the former world number one in the summit clash.

Dominic Thiem denied Roger Federer a record sixth Indian Wells title and 101st tournament victory as he defeated the former world number one in the summit clash. Austrian tennis player Thiem claimed his first Masters 1000 title after coming from a set down to defeat Federer 3-6, 6-3, 7-5 in BNP Paribas Open on Sunday. The 25-year-old Thiem fell on his back and covered his face with his hands when Federer netted on match point. "I mean for me it's unreal," said Thiem after winning the match. "I was in the whole match in the zone. I mean, I enjoyed every second of it and I think I had to get used to Roger (Federer) game because in the first set he was playing amazing and completely different than my opponents before in this tournament," Thiem said. "I was struggling a little bit but then I was fighting my way into the match." "I got also a little bit lucky when I saved his break point early in the second set and then I think it was a very good match until the end and the last games were amazing and of course I was a little bit on nerve to serve it out," he added. Watch Thiem's reaction after winning the match: That feeling of winning your first #ATPMasters1000 title! 🏆 Congrats on winning the #BNPPO19, @ThiemDomi! 👏 Watch live streams on @TennisTV. pic.twitter.com/WJpWwCFZfX — ATP Tour (@ATP_Tour) March 18, 2019 × Thiem had lost in his previous two ATP Masters 1000 finals. But the 25-year-old Austrian's solid serve held up against Federer as it had throughout the tournament.

'It is unreal,' says Dominic Thiem on beating Roger Federer in Indian Wells final

Austria's Dominic Thiem defeated Milos Raonic 7-6 (7/3), 6-7 (3/7), 6-4 on Saturday to book a title clash with five-time champion Roger Federer at the ATP Indian Wells Masters.

Thiem, ranked eighth in the world, withstood 17 aces from the rangy Canadian, gaining the only break of the contest in the third set.

He'll fight for a maiden Masters 1000 title against Swiss great Federer. Federer, seeking a record sixth Indian Wells crown, reached the final when semi-final opponent Rafael

Nadal withdrew from the tournament with a right knee injury.

Thiem, 25, has split four prior meetings with the 20-time Grand Slam champion 2-2.

Austria's Dominic Thiem defeated Milos Raonic 7-6 (7/3), 6-7 (3/7), 6-4 on Saturday to book a title clash with five-time champion Roger Federer at the ATP Indian Wells Masters.

Austria's Dominic Thiem defeated Milos Raonic 7-6 (7/3), 6-7 (3/7), 6-4 on Saturday to book a title clash with five-time champion Roger Federer at the ATP Indian Wells Masters. Thiem, ranked eighth in the world, withstood 17 aces from the rangy Canadian, gaining the only break of the contest in the third set. He'll fight for a maiden Masters 1000 title against Swiss great Federer. Federer, seeking a record sixth Indian Wells crown, reached the final when semi-final opponent Rafael Nadal withdrew from the tournament with a right knee injury. Thiem, 25, has split four prior meetings with the 20-time Grand Slam champion 2-2.

Dominic Thiem books Indian Wells final against Roger Federer

One of the great sporting rivalries will be renewed at Indian Wells on Saturday when Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal clash in a semi-final at the BNP Paribas Open, providing the Spaniard's troublesome right knee does not keep him off court.

The multiple Grand Slam champions both won their quarter-finals on Friday, although Nadal in particular had to work hard to overcome Russian Karen Khachanov 7-6(2), 7-6(2) in a match during which he required treatment on the knee.

"I am used to playing with some issues, so I just tried to be focussed. It's one of these victories today I'm really proud of," Nadal told reporters, declining to absolutely guarantee that he would be okay to play on Saturday.

"Nobody can guarantee anything about what can happen the next day, but of course my goal is to be ready for tomorrow."

Federer, meanwhile, broke Pole Hubert Hurkacz once in each set for a 6-4, 6-4 win in the first career meeting between the pair and was perhaps more bothered by his early start.

"It's a bit different," the Swiss told reporters. "They warned me they were going to put me on at 11.00 (am). What can I say? You have no choice.

"I'm very excited to be in the semis here, not that I didn't expect it. I'm holding serve comfortably, in a good place mentally when I go into my service games."

Hurkacz had two break points but could seize neither.

"Roger was playing great in the crucial moments," he said. "I had some small chances in the second set.

"He's changing directions all the time (with his serve) so it's really hard to read it."

With Hurkacz dispatched, Federer turned his thoughts to what would be his 39th career encounter with Nadal.

The Spaniard leads 23-15 on a head-to-head basis but the Swiss has won the last five encounters.

They have not met since Shanghai in 2017, the same year that Federer beat Nadal 6-2, 6-3 in the fourth round on his way to his fifth title at Indian Wells.

Federer, 37, warned fans not to read too much into his winning streak against 32-year-old Nadal.

"I lot has happened in the past 18 months," he said. "You can't just copy and paste and play exactly the same thing again.

"It's been quite a journey with Rafa side by side."

Nadal spoke glowingly of how much the rivalry meant.

"It's beautiful to have the chance to keep competing at the highest level in advanced rounds, in the most important event at that late (in) our careers," he said.

"That's something really special and (I'm) just happy to be part of it."

Saturday's other semi-final will match Austrian seventh seed Dominic Thiem against Canadian 13th seed Milos Raonic.

One of the great sporting rivalries will be renewed at Indian Wells on Saturday when Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal clash in a semi-final at the BNP Paribas Open, providing the Spaniard's troublesome right knee does not keep him off court.

One of the great sporting rivalries will be renewed at Indian Wells on Saturday when Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal clash in a semi-final at the BNP Paribas Open, providing the Spaniard's troublesome right knee does not keep him off court. The multiple Grand Slam champions both won their quarter-finals on Friday, although Nadal in particular had to work hard to overcome Russian Karen Khachanov 7-6(2), 7-6(2) in a match during which he required treatment on the knee. "I am used to playing with some issues, so I just tried to be focussed. It's one of these victories today I'm really proud of," Nadal told reporters, declining to absolutely guarantee that he would be okay to play on Saturday. "Nobody can guarantee anything about what can happen the next day, but of course my goal is to be ready for tomorrow." Federer, meanwhile, broke Pole Hubert Hurkacz once in each set for a 6-4, 6-4 win in the first career meeting between the pair and was perhaps more bothered by his early start. "It's a bit different," the Swiss told reporters. "They warned me they were going to put me on at 11.00 (am). What can I say? You have no choice. "I'm very excited to be in the semis here, not that I didn't expect it. I'm holding serve comfortably, in a good place mentally when I go into my service games." Hurkacz had two break points but could seize neither. "Roger was playing great in the crucial moments," he said. "I had some small chances in the second set. "He's changing directions all the time (with his serve) so it's really hard to read it." With Hurkacz dispatched, Federer turned his thoughts to what would be his 39th career encounter with Nadal. The Spaniard leads 23-15 on a head-to-head basis but the Swiss has won the last five encounters. They have not met since Shanghai in 2017, the same year that Federer beat Nadal 6-2, 6-3 in the fourth round on his way to his fifth title at Indian Wells. Federer, 37, warned fans not to read too much into his winning streak against 32-year-old Nadal. "I lot has happened in the past 18 months," he said. "You can't just copy and paste and play exactly the same thing again. "It's been quite a journey with Rafa side by side." Nadal spoke glowingly of how much the rivalry meant. "It's beautiful to have the chance to keep competing at the highest level in advanced rounds, in the most important event at that late (in) our careers," he said. "That's something really special and (I'm) just happy to be part of it." Saturday's other semi-final will match Austrian seventh seed Dominic Thiem against Canadian 13th seed Milos Raonic.

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal to clash in Indian Wells semi-final

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal remained on course for a mouthwatering semi-final clash at the BNP Paribas Open with straightforward fourth-round victories in the California desert on Wednesday.

Federer needed just over an hour to dispatch Briton Kyle Edmund 6-1 6-4 in their first career meeting and reach the quarter-finals on a sunny and breezy day in Indian Wells.

Next up for the 20-times Grand Slam champion is another unknown quantity in Pole Hubert Hurkacz, who defeated Canadian teenager Denis Shapovalov 7-6(3) 2-6 6-3 earlier in the day to set up his first career meeting with the Swiss Master.

Nadal, 17 times a Grand Slam winner, ruthlessly put an end to Serbian qualifier Filip Krajinovic's run at the tournament, converting three of his four break point opportunities to advance 6-3 6-4.

Neither Federer or Nadal have dropped a set in their three matches at Indian Wells, a tournament Federer has won five times and Nadal three.

In other fourth-round action, hard-hitting Canadian Milos Raonic saved all three of Jan-Lennard Struff's break point opportunities to down the German 6-4 6-3.

The 13th seed will square off against either France's Gael Monfils or Germany's Philipp Kohlschreiber in the quarter-finals on Thursday.

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal remained on course for a mouthwatering semi-final clash at the BNP Paribas Open with straightforward fourth-round victories in the California desert on Wednesday.

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal remained on course for a mouthwatering semi-final clash at the BNP Paribas Open with straightforward fourth-round victories in the California desert on Wednesday. Federer needed just over an hour to dispatch Briton Kyle Edmund 6-1 6-4 in their first career meeting and reach the quarter-finals on a sunny and breezy day in Indian Wells. Next up for the 20-times Grand Slam champion is another unknown quantity in Pole Hubert Hurkacz, who defeated Canadian teenager Denis Shapovalov 7-6(3) 2-6 6-3 earlier in the day to set up his first career meeting with the Swiss Master. Nadal, 17 times a Grand Slam winner, ruthlessly put an end to Serbian qualifier Filip Krajinovic's run at the tournament, converting three of his four break point opportunities to advance 6-3 6-4. Neither Federer or Nadal have dropped a set in their three matches at Indian Wells, a tournament Federer has won five times and Nadal three. In other fourth-round action, hard-hitting Canadian Milos Raonic saved all three of Jan-Lennard Struff's break point opportunities to down the German 6-4 6-3. The 13th seed will square off against either France's Gael Monfils or Germany's Philipp Kohlschreiber in the quarter-finals on Thursday.

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal roll into quarters at Indian Wells

World number two Rafael Nadal raced into the third round of the ATP Indian Wells Masters as Roger Federer made a less speedy but still successful start to his quest for a sixth title on Sunday.

Nadal, a three-time Indian Wells winner, needed just 72 minutes to get past overmatched Jared Donaldson, 6-1, 6-1.

Federer, who is seeking to break out of a tie with top seed Novak Djokovic for most titles in the California desert, looked set for a similarly easy time of it, but had to turn back a second-set challenge from German Peter Gojowczyk in a 6-1, 7-5 win.

Fourth-seeded Federer said he was relieved not to go to a second-set tiebreaker after falling behind 3-1 to the free-swinging German, who is ranked 85th in the world.

The Swiss regained the break and, after saving four break points to make it 4-4, cruised home.

"I struggled a little bit with my serving in that second set and that gave him chances. Because he was serving better, he started to swing more freely and then it was tough," Federer said.&nbsp;

"I'm really happy I found a way in that second set."

Federer next faces compatriot Stan Wawrinka, a three-time Grand Slam champion currently unseeded as he continues his return from injury.

Wawrinka won a taut thriller against 29th-seeded Hungarian Marton Fucsovics, 6-4, 6-7 (5/7), 7-5, finally sealing it on his fifth match point after three hours and 24 minutes when Fucsovics lofted a lob long.

'Positive step'

Nadal, playing his third tournament of a year that started with a crushing loss to Djokovic in the Australian Open final and included an early exit in Acapulco, converted five of his six break chances against Donaldson and never faced a break point himself.

He next faces Diego Schwartzman, who beat Spain's Roberto Carballes, 6-3, 6-1. Nadal is 6-0 against the Argentine.

"Today was a very positive step for me, and the next one is going to be against a player that we know each other very well -- we practiced a lot of times, and we played some tough matches," Nadal said.&nbsp;

"It's going to be a tough one against Diego," he added, calling Schwartzman "one of the best talents of the sport today."

In other early matches, sixth-seeded Kei Nishikori of Japan survived a scare in a 6-4, 4-6, 7-6 (7/4) victory over France's Adrian Mannarino.

Mannarino, ranked 52nd in the world, served for the match at 6-5 in the third.

He couldn't muster a match point and double-faulted on break point, and that was enough of a window for Nishikori.

"I think in the tiebreak I played the best tennis of the match. I was really focused," said Nishikori, who opened 2019 with a title in Brisbane and then reached the quarter-finals of the Australian Open.

Nishikori next faces 67th-ranked Hubert Hurkacz of Poland, who defeated France's Lucas Pouille, 6-2, 3-6, 6-4.

Eighth-seeded American John Isner routed Australian qualifier Alexei Popyrin, 6-0, 6-2, the most lopsided win of Isner's career.

He'll play Guido Pella, who won his first title at Sao Paulo last week. Pella ended the hopes of another Aussie qualifier, Alex Bolt, 7-6 (7/5), 2-6, 6-3.

Tenth-seeded Croatian Marin Cilic downed Serbian Dusan Lajovic, 6-3, 6-4 to book a meeting with 19-year-old Canadian Denis Shapovalov, the 24th seed who beat American Steve Johnson, 6-3, 6-4.

World number two Rafael Nadal raced into the third round of the ATP Indian Wells Masters as Roger Federer made a less speedy but still successful start to his quest for a sixth title on Sunday.

World number two Rafael Nadal raced into the third round of the ATP Indian Wells Masters as Roger Federer made a less speedy but still successful start to his quest for a sixth title on Sunday. Nadal, a three-time Indian Wells winner, needed just 72 minutes to get past overmatched Jared Donaldson, 6-1, 6-1. Federer, who is seeking to break out of a tie with top seed Novak Djokovic for most titles in the California desert, looked set for a similarly easy time of it, but had to turn back a second-set challenge from German Peter Gojowczyk in a 6-1, 7-5 win. Fourth-seeded Federer said he was relieved not to go to a second-set tiebreaker after falling behind 3-1 to the free-swinging German, who is ranked 85th in the world. The Swiss regained the break and, after saving four break points to make it 4-4, cruised home. "I struggled a little bit with my serving in that second set and that gave him chances. Because he was serving better, he started to swing more freely and then it was tough," Federer said. "I'm really happy I found a way in that second set." Federer next faces compatriot Stan Wawrinka, a three-time Grand Slam champion currently unseeded as he continues his return from injury. Wawrinka won a taut thriller against 29th-seeded Hungarian Marton Fucsovics, 6-4, 6-7 (5/7), 7-5, finally sealing it on his fifth match point after three hours and 24 minutes when Fucsovics lofted a lob long. 'Positive step' Nadal, playing his third tournament of a year that started with a crushing loss to Djokovic in the Australian Open final and included an early exit in Acapulco, converted five of his six break chances against Donaldson and never faced a break point himself. He next faces Diego Schwartzman, who beat Spain's Roberto Carballes, 6-3, 6-1. Nadal is 6-0 against the Argentine. "Today was a very positive step for me, and the next one is going to be against a player that we know each other very well -- we practiced a lot of times, and we played some tough matches," Nadal said. "It's going to be a tough one against Diego," he added, calling Schwartzman "one of the best talents of the sport today." In other early matches, sixth-seeded Kei Nishikori of Japan survived a scare in a 6-4, 4-6, 7-6 (7/4) victory over France's Adrian Mannarino. Mannarino, ranked 52nd in the world, served for the match at 6-5 in the third. He couldn't muster a match point and double-faulted on break point, and that was enough of a window for Nishikori. "I think in the tiebreak I played the best tennis of the match. I was really focused," said Nishikori, who opened 2019 with a title in Brisbane and then reached the quarter-finals of the Australian Open. Nishikori next faces 67th-ranked Hubert Hurkacz of Poland, who defeated France's Lucas Pouille, 6-2, 3-6, 6-4. Eighth-seeded American John Isner routed Australian qualifier Alexei Popyrin, 6-0, 6-2, the most lopsided win of Isner's career. He'll play Guido Pella, who won his first title at Sao Paulo last week. Pella ended the hopes of another Aussie qualifier, Alex Bolt, 7-6 (7/5), 2-6, 6-3. Tenth-seeded Croatian Marin Cilic downed Serbian Dusan Lajovic, 6-3, 6-4 to book a meeting with 19-year-old Canadian Denis Shapovalov, the 24th seed who beat American Steve Johnson, 6-3, 6-4.

Past champions Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer advance at Indian Wells

Roger Federer is looking forward to having more freedom and more time with his family when he eventually leaves behind the sport he has dominated, the Swiss master said on Wednesday.

The evergreen veteran won his landmark 100th career title in Dubai during the weekend but told reporters that while he is not yet ready to hang up the racquet, he can see himself enjoying his post-career life.

"I want to keep it as flexible as possible when it is all said and done," the 37-year-old Swiss said at a press conference at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells.

"My priority will always be, as it is now, my family, my kids and my wife. I just want to have enough flexibility in our lives to decide how much is too much, how much is not enough, and how much is good for everybody."

He said his wife Mirka has kept up ties with some close friends amid his hectic travel schedule and he plans to engage more fully with that group after quitting playing.

"From that standpoint I'm really looking forward to that moment when it comes about," he said.

Another post-career priority will be his foundation, which supports children's education programs around the world.

"The foundation will only continue to grow in terms of time that I am going to be putting into it but then again, how much more time remains to be seen," he said.

"But I cannot sit still. I always want to travel and I always want to do stuff but there's a way to go about it and to prioritize."

Federer acknowledged that he is the face of the sport and said while he tries to be the best ambassador for it, he also needs to think about himself sometimes.

"If I can make the game more popular, if the fans can enjoy the sport more through me and you guys like to talk to me, that's great," the 20-times Grand Slam singles champion told reporters.

"In the end I want to be happy and please people. But I know and can't please everybody and if that's my goal, I will forever be unhappy."

Federer, who is a five-time champion at Indian Wells and made the final last year, will face either Peter Gojowczyk or Andreas Seppi in his first match of the tournament on Friday.

Roger Federer is looking forward to having more freedom and more time with his family when he eventually leaves behind the sport he has dominated, the Swiss master said on Wednesday.

Roger Federer is looking forward to having more freedom and more time with his family when he eventually leaves behind the sport he has dominated, the Swiss master said on Wednesday. The evergreen veteran won his landmark 100th career title in Dubai during the weekend but told reporters that while he is not yet ready to hang up the racquet, he can see himself enjoying his post-career life. "I want to keep it as flexible as possible when it is all said and done," the 37-year-old Swiss said at a press conference at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells. "My priority will always be, as it is now, my family, my kids and my wife. I just want to have enough flexibility in our lives to decide how much is too much, how much is not enough, and how much is good for everybody." He said his wife Mirka has kept up ties with some close friends amid his hectic travel schedule and he plans to engage more fully with that group after quitting playing. "From that standpoint I'm really looking forward to that moment when it comes about," he said. Another post-career priority will be his foundation, which supports children's education programs around the world. "The foundation will only continue to grow in terms of time that I am going to be putting into it but then again, how much more time remains to be seen," he said. "But I cannot sit still. I always want to travel and I always want to do stuff but there's a way to go about it and to prioritize." Federer acknowledged that he is the face of the sport and said while he tries to be the best ambassador for it, he also needs to think about himself sometimes. "If I can make the game more popular, if the fans can enjoy the sport more through me and you guys like to talk to me, that's great," the 20-times Grand Slam singles champion told reporters. "In the end I want to be happy and please people. But I know and can't please everybody and if that's my goal, I will forever be unhappy." Federer, who is a five-time champion at Indian Wells and made the final last year, will face either Peter Gojowczyk or Andreas Seppi in his first match of the tournament on Friday.

Family will remain priority post retirement, says Roger Federer

Roger Federer: From Mr Angry to Mr Perfect

Roger Federer defeated Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-4, 6-4 in the final of the Dubai Championships to win his 100th career title.&nbsp;

The Swiss star is the second man to achieve the feat after America's Jimmy Connors who ended his career with 109 titles.&nbsp;

After winning the title,&nbsp;Federer hailed his "wonderful journey".&nbsp;

He said, "I'm so happy I'm still playing. It's been a long wonderful journey,"

"I've loved every minute. Winning 100 is an absolute dream come true,"&nbsp;Federer added.&nbsp;

"It's so special to win my eighth here combined with 100," Federer said. "I had tough opponents all the way through -- right up to Stefanos today.&nbsp;

"He's already having a great career, the game is in good hands."&nbsp;

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Tsitsipas, who will become the first Greek to ever reach the world's top 10 on Monday, paid tribute to his opponent.

"I've been idolizing him since the age of 6... And now sharing the court, it's even better," the 20-year-old said.

"100 is just completely insane -- I'd be happy with 100 wins. Seriously, I'm trying to get there."

Earlier he had said, "Reaching 100 titles -- we're still far from it. I'm just going to try to focus and play good tennis."

Roger Federer defeated Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-4, 6-4 in the final of the Dubai Championships to win his 100th career title. The Swiss star is the second man to achieve the feat after America's Jimmy Connors who ended his career with 109 titles.

Roger Federer defeated Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-4, 6-4 in the final of the Dubai Championships to win his 100th career title. The Swiss star is the second man to achieve the feat after America's Jimmy Connors who ended his career with 109 titles. After winning the title, Federer hailed his "wonderful journey". He said, "I'm so happy I'm still playing. It's been a long wonderful journey," "I've loved every minute. Winning 100 is an absolute dream come true," Federer added. "It's so special to win my eighth here combined with 100," Federer said. "I had tough opponents all the way through -- right up to Stefanos today. "He's already having a great career, the game is in good hands." 💯 titles for the 🐐 @rogerfederer pic.twitter.com/3t3y5JO59N — Dubai Tennis Champs (@DDFTennis) March 2, 2019 × Tsitsipas, who will become the first Greek to ever reach the world's top 10 on Monday, paid tribute to his opponent. "I've been idolizing him since the age of 6... And now sharing the court, it's even better," the 20-year-old said. "100 is just completely insane -- I'd be happy with 100 wins. Seriously, I'm trying to get there." Earlier he had said, "Reaching 100 titles -- we're still far from it. I'm just going to try to focus and play good tennis."

Dubai Championships: Roger Federer beats Stefanos Tsitsipas to win 100th career title

Roger&nbsp;Federer will on Saturday become just the second man to win 100 career titles if he triumphs in the Dubai Championships final, but the legendary Swiss is not even thinking about reaching yet another landmark.&nbsp;

The 20-time Grand Slam champion beat Croatia's Borna Coric 6-2, 6-2, ending with an ace after just 67 minutes, in their&nbsp;Friday semi-final.

That put the 37-year-old into his tenth final in the emirate and 152nd of his career.

Jimmy Connors holds the record for men with 109 titles although even that is a long way back from Martina Navratilova's collection of 167 in the women's game.

"Reaching 100 titles -- we're still far from it. I'm just going to try to focus and play good tennis," said Federer.

Federer, seven times a Dubai champion, will have a score to settle with final opponent Stefanos Tsitsipas, who booked his place&nbsp;in the championship match with a 4-6, 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (7/4) win over Gael Monfils.

The 11th-ranked Greek stunned Federer in the fourth round of the Australian Open in January in their only previous tour meeting.

On Friday, Federer gained revenge for two losses he took last season against Coric, who beat him in the Halle final on grass and at the Shanghai Masters semi-finals.

The Swiss star grabbed the opening set in 22 minutes and began the second with a break on the way to his comfortable win in blustery conditions.

"Maybe the final is a little bit of a revenge match," admitted Federer on the prospect of facing Tsitsipas again.

"We've played a this year, in the Hopman Cup and then the Australian Open.&nbsp;

Defeat 'hurt'

"Obviously I was horribly disappointed and upset that I missed as many break points as I did, had all the opportunities I had. That (Melbourne) match kind of hurt in some ways.&nbsp;

"But, you know, it's part of the game. He did very well to get out of those tricky situations."

Federer added: "Tsitsipas is tough to play, tough to beat. He showed me that at the Australian Open, how hard he is."

Fifth-seed Tsitsipas will enter the top 10 of the world rankings for the first time in his career thanks to Friday's win.

"I don't know how I won," said Tsitsipas. "I was playing relaxed today, enjoying every moment. "I was probably a bit more concentrated than usual. I didn't want to give it to him.

"I was serving well and timed my returns. I had confidence going into the tiebreakers.

"I was not expecting much from myself, to be honest. I was just playing,." said the winner, who said he came to the court with some minor back pain and feared he might not be able to finish.

For Monfils defeat brings to an end an eight-match winning streak and an entertaining run in Dubai that comes a fortnight after winning in Rotterdam.

Monfils won five games in a row to take the opening set after going down a break, but was pegged back in a tense second that Tsitsipas won on a tie-break.

The Frenchman could easily have won the match had he not let four break points slip when 4-3 up in the final set, while Tsitsipas had to recover from three double faults at 5-6 down to force the tie-break&nbsp; from which he eventually won the match.

"I had some opportunities, I couldn't make them great today," said Monfils.

"I need to be better, that's it. I need to be better to win those big matches."

Roger Federer will on Saturday become just the second man to win 100 career titles if he triumphs in the Dubai Championships final, but the legendary Swiss is not even thinking about reaching yet another landmark.

Roger Federer will on Saturday become just the second man to win 100 career titles if he triumphs in the Dubai Championships final, but the legendary Swiss is not even thinking about reaching yet another landmark. The 20-time Grand Slam champion beat Croatia's Borna Coric 6-2, 6-2, ending with an ace after just 67 minutes, in their Friday semi-final. That put the 37-year-old into his tenth final in the emirate and 152nd of his career. Jimmy Connors holds the record for men with 109 titles although even that is a long way back from Martina Navratilova's collection of 167 in the women's game. "Reaching 100 titles -- we're still far from it. I'm just going to try to focus and play good tennis," said Federer. Federer, seven times a Dubai champion, will have a score to settle with final opponent Stefanos Tsitsipas, who booked his place in the championship match with a 4-6, 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (7/4) win over Gael Monfils. The 11th-ranked Greek stunned Federer in the fourth round of the Australian Open in January in their only previous tour meeting. On Friday, Federer gained revenge for two losses he took last season against Coric, who beat him in the Halle final on grass and at the Shanghai Masters semi-finals. The Swiss star grabbed the opening set in 22 minutes and began the second with a break on the way to his comfortable win in blustery conditions. "Maybe the final is a little bit of a revenge match," admitted Federer on the prospect of facing Tsitsipas again. "We've played a this year, in the Hopman Cup and then the Australian Open. Defeat 'hurt' "Obviously I was horribly disappointed and upset that I missed as many break points as I did, had all the opportunities I had. That (Melbourne) match kind of hurt in some ways. "But, you know, it's part of the game. He did very well to get out of those tricky situations." Federer added: "Tsitsipas is tough to play, tough to beat. He showed me that at the Australian Open, how hard he is." Fifth-seed Tsitsipas will enter the top 10 of the world rankings for the first time in his career thanks to Friday's win. "I don't know how I won," said Tsitsipas. "I was playing relaxed today, enjoying every moment. "I was probably a bit more concentrated than usual. I didn't want to give it to him. "I was serving well and timed my returns. I had confidence going into the tiebreakers. "I was not expecting much from myself, to be honest. I was just playing,." said the winner, who said he came to the court with some minor back pain and feared he might not be able to finish. For Monfils defeat brings to an end an eight-match winning streak and an entertaining run in Dubai that comes a fortnight after winning in Rotterdam. Monfils won five games in a row to take the opening set after going down a break, but was pegged back in a tense second that Tsitsipas won on a tie-break. The Frenchman could easily have won the match had he not let four break points slip when 4-3 up in the final set, while Tsitsipas had to recover from three double faults at 5-6 down to force the tie-break from which he eventually won the match. "I had some opportunities, I couldn't make them great today," said Monfils. "I need to be better, that's it. I need to be better to win those big matches."

Roger Federer in pursuit of historic title in Dubai

Roger Federer began his charge for a 100th career title by dispatching Philipp Kohlschreiber 6-4, 3-6, 6-1 on a windy centre court in the first round of the Dubai Championships.&nbsp;

Second seed Federer had to deal with a tricky opponent and strong gusts at the Aviation Club in front of nearly 5,500 fans at the Aviation Club, needing all three sets to make it past the opening round.&nbsp;

The Swiss, a seven-time Dubai champion, had to go up a gear in the third set to advance to a second-round meeting with Fernando Verdasco after German Kohlschreiber made a match of it by winning the second.&nbsp;

"I'm just happy to get through, it was tricky conditions out there," the 20-time Grand Slam champion said after his 14th straight win over Kohlschreiber, his friend and practice partner.&nbsp;

"Philipp caused me a lot of trouble and we played in swirly conditions. All of a sudden it (the wind) could stop and you could be a break down. That also plays in your head a little bit.&nbsp;

"I know the game's there. It was just really difficult conditions tonight."&nbsp;

Federer, who is seeded behind Kei Nishikori, swept the opening set after breaking in the first game but was pegged back.&nbsp;

Kohlschreiber, ranked 31st in the world, made a match of it in the second, breaking Federer three times on his way to taking the set 6-3.&nbsp;

The final game of the set was a nine-minute thriller, with the Swiss seed saving three set points before Kohlschreiber levelled the match with a volley winner.&nbsp;

But Federer cruised to the third set and the next round.&nbsp;

Khachanov, Raonic surprised

Earlier, seeds Karen Khachanov and Milos Raonic suffered surprise first-round exits in testing conditions.

Georgian Nikoloz Basilashvili stunned Russian fourth seed Khachanov 6-4, 6-1, while world number 14 Raonic was beaten his Dubai debut 6-4, 5-7, 6-4 by German Jan-Lennard Struff.&nbsp;

Khachanov went down in just 69 minutes to 19th-ranked Georgian Basilashvili, winner of two titles last season, as winds played havoc during the day.

"I know Karen is not having his best time at this moment. But I also did not have great beginning of the season," said Basilashvili.

"I was able to manage my nerves just (for the) whole match, especially in the windy conditions. It was really tough, (and I'm) really happy for sure."

Raonic battled for more than two hours but was unable to get past Struff.

In an unusual incident, one of Raonic's rocket serves struck a ball girl straight in face.

After a five-minute pause for treatment, she was led off court by a first-aid worker -- the girl returned at the end of the match and shook hands with the player, who gave her a racquet.

The Canadian fired 15 aces in his losing effort, dropping serve twice.

Struff advanced into a second-round match with Marton Fucsovics after the Hungarian defeated Damir Dzumhur 6-1, 7-6 (7/5).

Former finalist Verdasco smashed 13 aces as he put out Italy's Thomas Fabbiano 3-6, 6-3, 6-2.

Roger Federer began his charge for a 100th career title by dispatching Philipp Kohlschreiber 6-4, 3-6, 6-1 on a windy centre court in the first round of the Dubai Championships.

Roger Federer began his charge for a 100th career title by dispatching Philipp Kohlschreiber 6-4, 3-6, 6-1 on a windy centre court in the first round of the Dubai Championships. Second seed Federer had to deal with a tricky opponent and strong gusts at the Aviation Club in front of nearly 5,500 fans at the Aviation Club, needing all three sets to make it past the opening round. The Swiss, a seven-time Dubai champion, had to go up a gear in the third set to advance to a second-round meeting with Fernando Verdasco after German Kohlschreiber made a match of it by winning the second. "I'm just happy to get through, it was tricky conditions out there," the 20-time Grand Slam champion said after his 14th straight win over Kohlschreiber, his friend and practice partner. "Philipp caused me a lot of trouble and we played in swirly conditions. All of a sudden it (the wind) could stop and you could be a break down. That also plays in your head a little bit. "I know the game's there. It was just really difficult conditions tonight." Federer, who is seeded behind Kei Nishikori, swept the opening set after breaking in the first game but was pegged back. Kohlschreiber, ranked 31st in the world, made a match of it in the second, breaking Federer three times on his way to taking the set 6-3. The final game of the set was a nine-minute thriller, with the Swiss seed saving three set points before Kohlschreiber levelled the match with a volley winner. But Federer cruised to the third set and the next round. Khachanov, Raonic surprised Earlier, seeds Karen Khachanov and Milos Raonic suffered surprise first-round exits in testing conditions. Georgian Nikoloz Basilashvili stunned Russian fourth seed Khachanov 6-4, 6-1, while world number 14 Raonic was beaten his Dubai debut 6-4, 5-7, 6-4 by German Jan-Lennard Struff. Khachanov went down in just 69 minutes to 19th-ranked Georgian Basilashvili, winner of two titles last season, as winds played havoc during the day. "I know Karen is not having his best time at this moment. But I also did not have great beginning of the season," said Basilashvili. "I was able to manage my nerves just (for the) whole match, especially in the windy conditions. It was really tough, (and I'm) really happy for sure." Raonic battled for more than two hours but was unable to get past Struff. In an unusual incident, one of Raonic's rocket serves struck a ball girl straight in face. After a five-minute pause for treatment, she was led off court by a first-aid worker -- the girl returned at the end of the match and shook hands with the player, who gave her a racquet. The Canadian fired 15 aces in his losing effort, dropping serve twice. Struff advanced into a second-round match with Marton Fucsovics after the Hungarian defeated Damir Dzumhur 6-1, 7-6 (7/5). Former finalist Verdasco smashed 13 aces as he put out Italy's Thomas Fabbiano 3-6, 6-3, 6-2.

Roger Federer starts 100th title bid with Kohlschreiber win in Dubai

Swiss tennis star Roger Federer will begin the quest for his 100th ATP singles title when he faces Philipp Kohlschreiber of Germany in the first round of the Dubai Championships on Monday (February 25).

The 20-times Grand Slam champion, who has not played this year since his Australian Open round of 16 defeat by Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas in January, said he would love to reach the milestone in Dubai.

Federer, the seven-time Dubai champion, last lifted the trophy in 2015 when he defeated Novak Djokovic.

The 37-year-old Federer, who will return to the European clay court season after two years away, said that he is excited about the prospect of playing on clay again.

Federer, whose sole French Open title came in 2009, announced on Wednesday (February 20) he will mark his return to clay at the Madrid Open which starts on May 3.

Swiss tennis star Roger Federer will begin the quest for his 100th ATP singles title when he faces Philipp Kohlschreiber of Germany in the first round of the Dubai Championships on Monday (February 25).

Swiss tennis star Roger Federer will begin the quest for his 100th ATP singles title when he faces Philipp Kohlschreiber of Germany in the first round of the Dubai Championships on Monday (February 25). The 20-times Grand Slam champion, who has not played this year since his Australian Open round of 16 defeat by Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas in January, said he would love to reach the milestone in Dubai. Federer, the seven-time Dubai champion, last lifted the trophy in 2015 when he defeated Novak Djokovic. The 37-year-old Federer, who will return to the European clay court season after two years away, said that he is excited about the prospect of playing on clay again. Federer, whose sole French Open title came in 2009, announced on Wednesday (February 20) he will mark his return to clay at the Madrid Open which starts on May 3.

Roger Federer would love to win 100th ATP title in Dubai

Roger Federer confirmed his participation for this year's Madrid Open on Wednesday, marking his return to the European clay court season after two years away.

The 20-times Grand Slam champion has not played this year since his Australian Open round of 16 defeat by Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas in January.

Federer, whose sole French Open title came in 2009, has preferred to skip the European clay season over the last two seasons to manage his schedule.

The 37-year-old Swiss is the second most successful player at the Caja Magica behind Rafa Nadal, winning three titles in 2006, 2009 and 2012.

"Federer is one of the best players of all time, it's no secret," tournament director Feliciano Lopez said in a statement.

"We are happy because his return to Madrid is a gift to the tournament, but above all the fans will be able to see a unique player in the Caja Magica. Having the Swiss player back on clay with Djokovic and Nadal is going to be unmissable."

World number one Novak Djokovic and 11-times French Open winner Nadal are also expected to feature at the Madrid Open, which will be played from May 3-12.

Roger Federer confirmed his participation for this year's Madrid Open on Wednesday, marking his return to the European clay court season after two years away. The 20-times Grand Slam champion has not played this year since his Australian Open round of 16 defeat by Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas in January.

Roger Federer confirmed his participation for this year's Madrid Open on Wednesday, marking his return to the European clay court season after two years away. The 20-times Grand Slam champion has not played this year since his Australian Open round of 16 defeat by Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas in January. Federer, whose sole French Open title came in 2009, has preferred to skip the European clay season over the last two seasons to manage his schedule. The 37-year-old Swiss is the second most successful player at the Caja Magica behind Rafa Nadal, winning three titles in 2006, 2009 and 2012. "Federer is one of the best players of all time, it's no secret," tournament director Feliciano Lopez said in a statement. "We are happy because his return to Madrid is a gift to the tournament, but above all the fans will be able to see a unique player in the Caja Magica. Having the Swiss player back on clay with Djokovic and Nadal is going to be unmissable." World number one Novak Djokovic and 11-times French Open winner Nadal are also expected to feature at the Madrid Open, which will be played from May 3-12.

Roger Federer to make clay court return at Madrid Open

Former German tennis star <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-tennis-stars-need-to-work-together-for-the-sports-sake-boris-becker-198112">Boris Becker</a> backed an in-form Novak Djokovic to chase Roger Federer's record 20 Grand Slam titles.&nbsp;

While speaking during&nbsp;Laureus World Sports Awards,&nbsp;Becker&nbsp;told PTI that the Serbian's best chance to achieve the feat is in the next two years.&nbsp;

The 31-year-old Djokovic is back to his best after a lean run and has won the last three Grand Slams, including a record seventh crown at the Australian Open last month.&nbsp;

Federer is 37 but is still going strong despite his fourth-round loss at Melbourne Park.&nbsp;

Seventeen-time Major winner Rafael Nadal too is well and truly back in the mix and reached the final at Melbourne Park after an injury lay-off.&nbsp;

Becker, speaking ahead of the Laureus World Sports Awards on Monday night, said equalling Federer's tally of 20 Grand Slams is now in the realm of possibility.&nbsp;

"One of the misfortunes of playing in an era with Federer and Nadal is you can't really compare yourself to them. Normally, after 15 Grand Slams and seven Australian Open titles, you would say 'wow'.&nbsp;

"It is wow but the next question is 'will Novak ever break Federer's record?" said Becker, who coached the world number one to six Grand Slam victories between 2014-2016.&nbsp;

"The short answer is that there is a possibility (of Novak getting close to Federer's 20 titles) but a lot of things have to happen. Yes, he won the last three majors but before that, he had a two-year dry spot."&nbsp;

Following his split with Djokovic, Becker had questioned the Serbian's work ethic.&nbsp;

"Tennis is fickle and sensitive. A lot of things have to be right in your personal and private life. For Novak, it is perfect at the moment. Therefore he is on his way (to match Federer's feats) and hopefully nothing happens in the meantime," said the German, who himself won six Majors.&nbsp;

Is Becker surprised by Djokovic's red hot form?&nbsp;

"Yes and no. Because he has a champion's mindset and that is something you never lose. He has his work ethic back, as well as his discipline, his desire and his love for the game, so, it was a question of time when he is going to win again," Becker said.&nbsp;

"When he is on, he is very very good. And he is still young enough, younger than Nadal (who is 32). There is an open window for him in the next two years to add to his trophy collection.&nbsp;

"When Federer won his 20th, nobody thought anyone could even come close. Now you have two guys (Djokovic and Nadal). Every Grand Slam is witnessing history."&nbsp;

Becker feels both Nadal and Djokovic might have to win more than 20 titles to break Federer's record, considering the Swiss master is playing at the moment.&nbsp;

"With Roger Federer, nothing is impossible. As long as he is healthy and wants to play, I would never bet against him. Yes, theoretically, there is an age issue but he is redefining that at 37. May be not on clay but on grass the way he plays, he is one of my favourites to win the Wimbledon. It will stay that way until he doesn't want to play anymore," he said.

Nadal, Federer and Djokovic are superstars not just in the tennis world, they are also considered global sporting icons. Their intense rivalry will go down as one of the most competitive in history books and the sport will be a lot poorer when they retire.&nbsp;

However, Becker sees the men's tennis landscape changing in the next five years. &nbsp;

"The younger generation will struggle to quickly move into their roles. But hey when I started playing it was Bjorn Borg and John McEnroe, I thought it was the greatest rivalry the world has ever seen. Next thing I know, I am involved with Edberg, Wilander and Lendl and then came Sampras and Agassi," he said.&nbsp;

"So every five to seven years you find these two or three players who are extraordinary. We can't imagine right now but in the next five years, we will have a new top three who may not have the name (and fame) which Federer, Nadal and Djokovic enjoy."

Former German tennis star Boris Becker backed an in-form Novak Djokovic to chase Roger Federer's record 20 Grand Slam titles. While speaking during Laureus World Sports Awards, Becker told PTI that the Serbian's best chance to achieve the feat is in the next two years.

Former German tennis star Boris Becker backed an in-form Novak Djokovic to chase Roger Federer's record 20 Grand Slam titles. While speaking during Laureus World Sports Awards, Becker told PTI that the Serbian's best chance to achieve the feat is in the next two years. The 31-year-old Djokovic is back to his best after a lean run and has won the last three Grand Slams, including a record seventh crown at the Australian Open last month. Federer is 37 but is still going strong despite his fourth-round loss at Melbourne Park. Seventeen-time Major winner Rafael Nadal too is well and truly back in the mix and reached the final at Melbourne Park after an injury lay-off. Becker, speaking ahead of the Laureus World Sports Awards on Monday night, said equalling Federer's tally of 20 Grand Slams is now in the realm of possibility. "One of the misfortunes of playing in an era with Federer and Nadal is you can't really compare yourself to them. Normally, after 15 Grand Slams and seven Australian Open titles, you would say 'wow'. "It is wow but the next question is 'will Novak ever break Federer's record?" said Becker, who coached the world number one to six Grand Slam victories between 2014-2016. "The short answer is that there is a possibility (of Novak getting close to Federer's 20 titles) but a lot of things have to happen. Yes, he won the last three majors but before that, he had a two-year dry spot." Following his split with Djokovic, Becker had questioned the Serbian's work ethic. "Tennis is fickle and sensitive. A lot of things have to be right in your personal and private life. For Novak, it is perfect at the moment. Therefore he is on his way (to match Federer's feats) and hopefully nothing happens in the meantime," said the German, who himself won six Majors. Is Becker surprised by Djokovic's red hot form? "Yes and no. Because he has a champion's mindset and that is something you never lose. He has his work ethic back, as well as his discipline, his desire and his love for the game, so, it was a question of time when he is going to win again," Becker said. "When he is on, he is very very good. And he is still young enough, younger than Nadal (who is 32). There is an open window for him in the next two years to add to his trophy collection. "When Federer won his 20th, nobody thought anyone could even come close. Now you have two guys (Djokovic and Nadal). Every Grand Slam is witnessing history." Becker feels both Nadal and Djokovic might have to win more than 20 titles to break Federer's record, considering the Swiss master is playing at the moment. "With Roger Federer, nothing is impossible. As long as he is healthy and wants to play, I would never bet against him. Yes, theoretically, there is an age issue but he is redefining that at 37. May be not on clay but on grass the way he plays, he is one of my favourites to win the Wimbledon. It will stay that way until he doesn't want to play anymore," he said. Nadal, Federer and Djokovic are superstars not just in the tennis world, they are also considered global sporting icons. Their intense rivalry will go down as one of the most competitive in history books and the sport will be a lot poorer when they retire. However, Becker sees the men's tennis landscape changing in the next five years. "The younger generation will struggle to quickly move into their roles. But hey when I started playing it was Bjorn Borg and John McEnroe, I thought it was the greatest rivalry the world has ever seen. Next thing I know, I am involved with Edberg, Wilander and Lendl and then came Sampras and Agassi," he said. "So every five to seven years you find these two or three players who are extraordinary. We can't imagine right now but in the next five years, we will have a new top three who may not have the name (and fame) which Federer, Nadal and Djokovic enjoy."

Boris Becker backs Novak Djokovic to chase Roger Federer's record 20 Grand Slam titles

Roger Federer is no longer chasing the top ranking and would rather be a contender at Grand Slams than battling Novak Djokovic and Rafa Nadal to be world number one, the Swiss tennis great said on Friday.

The 20-times Grand Slam champion has held back the clock in the twilight of his remarkable career and became the ATP's oldest world number one last year a few weeks after clinching his sixth Australian Open at the age of 36.

Federer saw his bid for a seventh title at Melbourne Park crushed last month by up-and-coming Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas in the last 16 and having slipped to sixth in the rankings, he says his priorities have shifted.

"For me the ranking, at 37 years old, is no longer really the priority," he told a news conference in Geneva.

"But the idea for me is to be in good health, to know that I can win tournaments, to know that I can beat them (Djokovic and Nadal), and after that it is a pleasure.

"As soon as you feel that you have no chance and all, then it's a problem. Even if my ranking goes down further, it's not a problem for me. As long as I say I can win a Grand Slam as I did two years ago with a world ranking of 17, everything is in place. I prefer to be ranked 17th than third and not win a Grand Slam or tournament."

Federer said he plans to play the Dubai Championships in February and Masters events in Indian Wells and Miami in March before deciding which tournaments he would play in the leadup to the French Open.

Federer, speaking at a launch for the Laver Cup which is being held in Geneva from Sept. 20-22, hoped that compatriot Stan Wawrinka and world number one Djokovic would join him and Spaniard Nadal on the European team.

Federer, who is from Basel, said he was happy to be back in Switzerland for a few weeks, spending time with friends and family while training.

Sweden's Bjorn Borg is captain of the Europe team at the event named after Australian tennis great Rod Laver.

Nadal has announced he will join his perennial rival in the Laver Cup, which pits the best of Europe against a world team still to be named.

"I can't wait. We talked about it in Melbourne, we talked about how excited he (Nadal) was and me too that we're going to be on the same team again," Federer said.

"We don't know the opponents' team quite yet, it's a good thing Rafa is going to be on my team, and it's on home soil for me in Switzerland, it's indoors, I like indoors," he said.

Tickets for the third edition of the tournament, following events in Prague and Chicago, went on sale on Friday, with the best seats at the five-session event going for a whopping 2,820 Swiss francs ($2,817.46).

Roger Federer is no longer chasing the top ranking and would rather be a contender at Grand Slams than battling Novak Djokovic and Rafa Nadal to be world number one, the Swiss tennis great said on Friday.

Roger Federer is no longer chasing the top ranking and would rather be a contender at Grand Slams than battling Novak Djokovic and Rafa Nadal to be world number one, the Swiss tennis great said on Friday. The 20-times Grand Slam champion has held back the clock in the twilight of his remarkable career and became the ATP's oldest world number one last year a few weeks after clinching his sixth Australian Open at the age of 36. Federer saw his bid for a seventh title at Melbourne Park crushed last month by up-and-coming Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas in the last 16 and having slipped to sixth in the rankings, he says his priorities have shifted. "For me the ranking, at 37 years old, is no longer really the priority," he told a news conference in Geneva. "But the idea for me is to be in good health, to know that I can win tournaments, to know that I can beat them (Djokovic and Nadal), and after that it is a pleasure. "As soon as you feel that you have no chance and all, then it's a problem. Even if my ranking goes down further, it's not a problem for me. As long as I say I can win a Grand Slam as I did two years ago with a world ranking of 17, everything is in place. I prefer to be ranked 17th than third and not win a Grand Slam or tournament." Federer said he plans to play the Dubai Championships in February and Masters events in Indian Wells and Miami in March before deciding which tournaments he would play in the leadup to the French Open. Federer, speaking at a launch for the Laver Cup which is being held in Geneva from Sept. 20-22, hoped that compatriot Stan Wawrinka and world number one Djokovic would join him and Spaniard Nadal on the European team. Federer, who is from Basel, said he was happy to be back in Switzerland for a few weeks, spending time with friends and family while training. Sweden's Bjorn Borg is captain of the Europe team at the event named after Australian tennis great Rod Laver. Nadal has announced he will join his perennial rival in the Laver Cup, which pits the best of Europe against a world team still to be named. "I can't wait. We talked about it in Melbourne, we talked about how excited he (Nadal) was and me too that we're going to be on the same team again," Federer said. "We don't know the opponents' team quite yet, it's a good thing Rafa is going to be on my team, and it's on home soil for me in Switzerland, it's indoors, I like indoors," he said. Tickets for the third edition of the tournament, following events in Prague and Chicago, went on sale on Friday, with the best seats at the five-session event going for a whopping 2,820 Swiss francs ($2,817.46).

Roger Federer: Chasing titles not top ranking

Novak Djokovic underwent surgery to fix an elbow problem 12 months back and in the process seems to have also eradicated any remaining glitches in his game, handing out an incredible mauling to Rafa Nadal in the Australian Open final on Sunday.

With his record seventh crown at Melbourne Park, Djokovic moved ahead of Pete Sampras as third on the men's all-time list of most Grand Slam titles (15) and probably more poignantly just two behind Nadal.

Roger Federer is still out in front with 20 and the debate on the sport's greatest player has mostly centred around the Swiss master and the Spaniard.

But Djokovic has most certainly thrown his hat into that ring and the mark remains a motivation for him.

"Of course, it motivates me," said Djokovic, who earlier posed with his trophy for "the most beautiful and the most expensive" photograph of the night with four Australian tennis greats including Rod Laver and Roy Emerson.

"Playing Grand Slams, biggest ATP events, is my utmost priority in this season and in seasons to come. How many seasons are to come? I don't know. I'm not trying to think too much in advance.

"I do want to definitely focus myself on continuing to improve my game and maintaining the overall well-being that I have mental, physical, emotional, so I would be able to compete at such a high level for the years to come, and have a shot at eventually getting closer to Roger's record. It's still far."

In their last meeting at Melbourne Park seven years ago, the Serb needed a record five hours and 53 minutes to beat Nadal in the title clash in a match regarded as a classic.

On Sunday, he needed little more than a couple of hours to clinch his 15th Grand Slam trophy and third in succession after winning Wimbledon and the US&nbsp;Open. The victory also tied his career Grand Slam final meetings against Nadal at 4-4.

Clay Challenge&nbsp;

The biggest challenge for Djokovic this year will come at the French Open once again from Nadal, where the 32-year-old has won a record 11 titles.

"I have to work on my game, my claycourt game, a bit more, more specifically than I have in the last season," said Djokovic, who completed his first 'Nole Slam' in 2015-16.

"I am already playing better. But, I mean, clay specifically in order to have a chance and shot at the title. The ultimate challenge there is to win against Nadal."

The 31-year-old played like a man possessed as those present at the packed Rod Laver Arena, which boasted strong support for Nadal, were left shaking their heads in disbelief at his utter dominance.

Djokovic had five breaks of serve while conceding only a single break point against an opponent, who was yet to lose a set en route to the final.

He committed nine unforced errors while hitting 34 winners, often under pressure and off balance.

That was after giving away only five unforced errors in his semi-final thrashing of Lucas Pouille.

"Back-to-back semi-finals and finals, I think I made 15 unforced errors in total in two matches," he said. "It's quite pleasantly surprising to myself, as well, even though I always believe I can play this way, visualize myself playing this way.

"At this level, as I said, under the circumstances, it was truly a perfect match."

Novak Djokovic underwent surgery to fix an elbow problem 12 months back and in the process seems to have also eradicated any remaining glitches in his game, handing out an incredible mauling to Rafa Nadal in the Australian Open final on Sunday.

Novak Djokovic underwent surgery to fix an elbow problem 12 months back and in the process seems to have also eradicated any remaining glitches in his game, handing out an incredible mauling to Rafa Nadal in the Australian Open final on Sunday. With his record seventh crown at Melbourne Park, Djokovic moved ahead of Pete Sampras as third on the men's all-time list of most Grand Slam titles (15) and probably more poignantly just two behind Nadal. Roger Federer is still out in front with 20 and the debate on the sport's greatest player has mostly centred around the Swiss master and the Spaniard. But Djokovic has most certainly thrown his hat into that ring and the mark remains a motivation for him. "Of course, it motivates me," said Djokovic, who earlier posed with his trophy for "the most beautiful and the most expensive" photograph of the night with four Australian tennis greats including Rod Laver and Roy Emerson. "Playing Grand Slams, biggest ATP events, is my utmost priority in this season and in seasons to come. How many seasons are to come? I don't know. I'm not trying to think too much in advance. "I do want to definitely focus myself on continuing to improve my game and maintaining the overall well-being that I have mental, physical, emotional, so I would be able to compete at such a high level for the years to come, and have a shot at eventually getting closer to Roger's record. It's still far." In their last meeting at Melbourne Park seven years ago, the Serb needed a record five hours and 53 minutes to beat Nadal in the title clash in a match regarded as a classic. On Sunday, he needed little more than a couple of hours to clinch his 15th Grand Slam trophy and third in succession after winning Wimbledon and the US Open. The victory also tied his career Grand Slam final meetings against Nadal at 4-4. Clay Challenge The biggest challenge for Djokovic this year will come at the French Open once again from Nadal, where the 32-year-old has won a record 11 titles. "I have to work on my game, my claycourt game, a bit more, more specifically than I have in the last season," said Djokovic, who completed his first 'Nole Slam' in 2015-16. "I am already playing better. But, I mean, clay specifically in order to have a chance and shot at the title. The ultimate challenge there is to win against Nadal." The 31-year-old played like a man possessed as those present at the packed Rod Laver Arena, which boasted strong support for Nadal, were left shaking their heads in disbelief at his utter dominance. Djokovic had five breaks of serve while conceding only a single break point against an opponent, who was yet to lose a set en route to the final. He committed nine unforced errors while hitting 34 winners, often under pressure and off balance. That was after giving away only five unforced errors in his semi-final thrashing of Lucas Pouille. "Back-to-back semi-finals and finals, I think I made 15 unforced errors in total in two matches," he said. "It's quite pleasantly surprising to myself, as well, even though I always believe I can play this way, visualize myself playing this way. "At this level, as I said, under the circumstances, it was truly a perfect match."

Novak Djokovic sets sight on Roger Federer's record of 20 Grand Slam titles

India cricket captain Virat Kohli and his wife Anushka Sharma recently met tennis great Roger Federer at the Australian Open.&nbsp;

Former world number one Roger Federer was knocked out of the Aus Open after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-loses-to-stefanos-tsitsipas-knocked-out-of-australia-open-191635">he was beaten in four sets</a> 6-7, 7-6, 7-5, 7-6 by Stefanos Tsitsipas in the Round of 16.&nbsp;

In an interview, Virat said that interaction with Federer made his day as the Swiss legend remembered meeting the Indian skipper some years back.&nbsp;

"Amazing (feeling). I have met him a couple of times before, the fact that he remembered me was like 'waoh'," the fanboy in Kohli was there to be seen.&nbsp;

"He (Federer) told me that he met me in Sydney a couple of years back during an exhibition match and I was like "waoh he remembers me".&nbsp;

"I can't explain that feeling. I have seen him play since I was a child and he is a great man and a great human being," Kohli said.&nbsp;

"He kept asking me questions and I could talk to him about mindset. It was a beautiful time spent," Kohli fondly recollected.&nbsp;

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What a day at the Australian open. ❤😍👌👌 An amazing way to finish the Australian summer. Forever grateful🙏😇❤<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ausopen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ausopen</a> <a href="https://t.co/fqOiekjH3F">pic.twitter.com/fqOiekjH3F</a>
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Beautiful sunny day at tennis with this beautiful sunny boy ❤️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AustralianOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AustralianOpen</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ausopen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ausopen</a> <a href="https://t.co/8yj9ztjprH">pic.twitter.com/8yj9ztjprH</a>
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&nbsp;

India cricket captain Virat Kohli and his wife Anushka Sharma recently met tennis great Roger Federer at the Australian Open. Former world number one Roger Federer was knocked out of the Aus Open after he was beaten in four sets 6-7, 7-6, 7-5, 7-6 by Stefanos Tsitsipas in the Round of 16.

India cricket captain Virat Kohli and his wife Anushka Sharma recently met tennis great Roger Federer at the Australian Open. Former world number one Roger Federer was knocked out of the Aus Open after he was beaten in four sets 6-7, 7-6, 7-5, 7-6 by Stefanos Tsitsipas in the Round of 16. In an interview, Virat said that interaction with Federer made his day as the Swiss legend remembered meeting the Indian skipper some years back. "Amazing (feeling). I have met him a couple of times before, the fact that he remembered me was like 'waoh'," the fanboy in Kohli was there to be seen. "He (Federer) told me that he met me in Sydney a couple of years back during an exhibition match and I was like "waoh he remembers me". "I can't explain that feeling. I have seen him play since I was a child and he is a great man and a great human being," Kohli said. "He kept asking me questions and I could talk to him about mindset. It was a beautiful time spent," Kohli fondly recollected. What a day at the Australian open. ❤😍👌👌 An amazing way to finish the Australian summer. Forever grateful🙏😇❤#ausopen pic.twitter.com/fqOiekjH3F — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) January 19, 2019 × Beautiful sunny day at tennis with this beautiful sunny boy ❤️ #AustralianOpen #ausopen pic.twitter.com/8yj9ztjprH — Anushka Sharma (@AnushkaSharma) January 19, 2019 ×

Virat Kohli on meeting tennis star Roger Federer: 'I can't explain that feeling'

If having his Australian Open title defence ended early was not painful enough for Roger Federer on Sunday, there was the additional sting of being beaten by a tyro with plenty of similarities to his younger, fearless self.

Sporting a one-handed backhand and a mop of long hair, Stefanos Tsitsipas cared little for reputation or records as he toppled the 37-year-old Swiss master 6-7(11) 7-6(3) 7-5 7-6(5) at a packed Rod Laver Arena.

There was no being overawed by the occasion or freezing in the clutch points, nor any of the failings that have tripped up so many of the young pretenders who have shared a court with the 20-times Grand Slam champion.

There was only composure and brilliance from the 20-year-old Tsitsipas who became Greece's first Grand Slam quarter-finalist and seems destined for bigger prizes in the near future.

In short, he was not unlike the Federer of the early 2000s who crashed through the game's titans with fearless abandon and condemned a 35-year-old Andre Agassi to defeat in the 2005 U.S. Open final.

After exiting Melbourne Park without a quarter-final for only the second time in the last 18 years, the Swiss shrugged off a suggestion from John McEnroe that the Rod Laver Arena crowd had just witnessed a "changing of the guard".

"Yeah, sure. He's in front of the mic (microphone) a lot," a downcast Federer told reporters.

"He's always going to say stuff. I love John. I've heard that story the last 10 years. From that standpoint, nothing new there."

Federer will note ruefully, however, that he has now been upset in the fourth round at two Grand Slams in succession, having been tipped out of the U.S. Open by unseeded Australian John Millman.

His legs seemed heavy and his groundstrokes lacked punch towards the end of the Tsitsipas clash, which saw both players scramble hard for three hours and 45 minutes.

For Federer, the most galling part was his lack of a clinical edge.

He left all 12 break points he grabbed from the Greek go unconverted and blew four set points that would have given him a two-set lead.

"It definitely didn't go the way I was hoping on the breakpoints," he said. "Nevertheless, it's very frustrating.

"I lost to a better player who was playing very well tonight. Hung in there, gave himself chances at some point, stayed calm.

"It's not always easy, especially for younger guys."

If having his Australian Open title defence ended early was not painful enough for Roger Federer on Sunday, there was the additional sting of being beaten by a tyro with plenty of similarities to his younger, fearless self.

If having his Australian Open title defence ended early was not painful enough for Roger Federer on Sunday, there was the additional sting of being beaten by a tyro with plenty of similarities to his younger, fearless self. Sporting a one-handed backhand and a mop of long hair, Stefanos Tsitsipas cared little for reputation or records as he toppled the 37-year-old Swiss master 6-7(11) 7-6(3) 7-5 7-6(5) at a packed Rod Laver Arena. There was no being overawed by the occasion or freezing in the clutch points, nor any of the failings that have tripped up so many of the young pretenders who have shared a court with the 20-times Grand Slam champion. There was only composure and brilliance from the 20-year-old Tsitsipas who became Greece's first Grand Slam quarter-finalist and seems destined for bigger prizes in the near future. In short, he was not unlike the Federer of the early 2000s who crashed through the game's titans with fearless abandon and condemned a 35-year-old Andre Agassi to defeat in the 2005 U.S. Open final. After exiting Melbourne Park without a quarter-final for only the second time in the last 18 years, the Swiss shrugged off a suggestion from John McEnroe that the Rod Laver Arena crowd had just witnessed a "changing of the guard". "Yeah, sure. He's in front of the mic (microphone) a lot," a downcast Federer told reporters. "He's always going to say stuff. I love John. I've heard that story the last 10 years. From that standpoint, nothing new there." Federer will note ruefully, however, that he has now been upset in the fourth round at two Grand Slams in succession, having been tipped out of the U.S. Open by unseeded Australian John Millman. His legs seemed heavy and his groundstrokes lacked punch towards the end of the Tsitsipas clash, which saw both players scramble hard for three hours and 45 minutes. For Federer, the most galling part was his lack of a clinical edge. He left all 12 break points he grabbed from the Greek go unconverted and blew four set points that would have given him a two-set lead. "It definitely didn't go the way I was hoping on the breakpoints," he said. "Nevertheless, it's very frustrating. "I lost to a better player who was playing very well tonight. Hung in there, gave himself chances at some point, stayed calm. "It's not always easy, especially for younger guys."

Australian Open: Roger Federer rues missed chances in Tsitsipas thriller

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/attack-on-un-base-in-mali-kills-8-peacekeepers-un-source-191639">Attack</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/attack-on-un-base-in-mali-kills-8-peacekeepers-un-source-191639"> on UN base in Mali kills 8 peacekeepers: UN source</a>

Gunmen killed at least eight Chadian UN peacekeepers in an attack Sunday on one of their bases in northern Mali, said a source close to the MINUSMA force.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/parliament-cannot-hijack-brexit-says-british-minister-liam-fox-191634">Britain's parliament has no right to try to 'hijack the Brexit process', says British minister Liam Fox</a>

Britain's parliament has no right to try to "hijack the Brexit process", Trade Minister Liam Fox said on Sunday, after several lawmakers indicated they were launching attempts to take more control over the departure from the European Union.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-loses-to-stefanos-tsitsipas-knocked-out-of-australia-open-191635">Roger Federer loses to Stefanos Tsitsipas, knocked out of Australia Open</a>

Two-time defending champion Roger Federer on Sunday was knocked out of the Australian Open after he was beaten in four sets 6-7 7-6 7-5 7-6 by Stefanos Tsitsipas.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-seven-killed-in-attack-on-afghan-provincial-governor-191622">At least seven killed in&nbsp;attack</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-seven-killed-in-attack-on-afghan-provincial-governor-191622"> on Afghan provincial governor</a>

A Taliban suicide bomber killed at least seven security guards Sunday after targeting the convoy of an Afghan governor, officials said, in the latest violence to rock the war-torn country.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/zimbabwe-crackdown-a-sign-of-things-to-come-emmerson-mnangagwas-spokesman-191607">Zimbabwe crackdown a sign of things to come: Emmerson Mnangagwa's spokesman</a>

A crackdown last week on protests in Zimbabwe is a foretaste of how the government will respond to future unrest, the president's spokesman said, fuelling concerns that the country is reverting to authoritarian rule.

&nbsp;

Attack on UN base in Mali kills 8 peacekeepers: UN source Gunmen killed at least eight Chadian UN peacekeepers in an attack Sunday on one of their bases in northern Mali, said a source close to the MINUSMA force.

Attack on UN base in Mali kills 8 peacekeepers: UN source Gunmen killed at least eight Chadian UN peacekeepers in an attack Sunday on one of their bases in northern Mali, said a source close to the MINUSMA force. Britain's parliament has no right to try to 'hijack the Brexit process', says British minister Liam Fox Britain's parliament has no right to try to "hijack the Brexit process", Trade Minister Liam Fox said on Sunday, after several lawmakers indicated they were launching attempts to take more control over the departure from the European Union. Roger Federer loses to Stefanos Tsitsipas, knocked out of Australia Open Two-time defending champion Roger Federer on Sunday was knocked out of the Australian Open after he was beaten in four sets 6-7 7-6 7-5 7-6 by Stefanos Tsitsipas. At least seven killed in attack on Afghan provincial governor A Taliban suicide bomber killed at least seven security guards Sunday after targeting the convoy of an Afghan governor, officials said, in the latest violence to rock the war-torn country. Zimbabwe crackdown a sign of things to come: Emmerson Mnangagwa's spokesman A crackdown last week on protests in Zimbabwe is a foretaste of how the government will respond to future unrest, the president's spokesman said, fuelling concerns that the country is reverting to authoritarian rule.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Two-time defending champion Roger Federer on Sunday was knocked out of the Australian Open after he was beaten in four sets 6-7 7-6 7-5 7-6 by Stefanos Tsitsipas.

The Swiss had 12 breaks points that slipped through his grasp as his hopes of a 21st Grand Slam title were ended. However, by virtue of this win&nbsp;Tsitsipas&nbsp;become&nbsp;the first Greek&nbsp;to reach the quarter-finals of a major tournament.

"There's nothing to describe it. I'm the happiest man on earth right now. It's important when you enter the court to believe in yourself. Roger is a legend in our sport and I have so much respect for him. I've been analysing him since the age of six and it was a dream to be out there facing him. I showed a great fighting spirit and determination to not be broken," Tsitsipas said after his victory.&nbsp;

"Most of the players in this era of the sport are baseliners, so I like this aggressive style. It keeps the game alive and it is much more interesting that way," he added.

Tsitsipas will next face Roberto Bautista-Agut for a place in the semi-finals.

Two-time defending champion Roger Federer on Sunday was knocked out of the Australian Open after he was beaten in four sets 6-7 7-6 7-5 7-6 by Stefanos Tsitsipas.

Two-time defending champion Roger Federer on Sunday was knocked out of the Australian Open after he was beaten in four sets 6-7 7-6 7-5 7-6 by Stefanos Tsitsipas. The Swiss had 12 breaks points that slipped through his grasp as his hopes of a 21st Grand Slam title were ended. However, by virtue of this win Tsitsipas become the first Greek to reach the quarter-finals of a major tournament. "There's nothing to describe it. I'm the happiest man on earth right now. It's important when you enter the court to believe in yourself. Roger is a legend in our sport and I have so much respect for him. I've been analysing him since the age of six and it was a dream to be out there facing him. I showed a great fighting spirit and determination to not be broken," Tsitsipas said after his victory. "Most of the players in this era of the sport are baseliners, so I like this aggressive style. It keeps the game alive and it is much more interesting that way," he added. Tsitsipas will next face Roberto Bautista-Agut for a place in the semi-finals.

Roger Federer loses to Stefanos Tsitsipas, knocked out of Australia Open

Former Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar on Sunday praised the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-security-guard-refuses-to-identify-roger-federer-stops-him-from-entering-locker-room-without-id-191387">security guard at the Australian Open, who stopped Swiss tennis star Roger Federer </a>from entering the locker room without his identity card. &nbsp;

Tendulkar also lauded the way the 20-time Grand Slam champion reacted to the situation, respecting the sentinel who was just doing his duty. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Taking to his Twitter handle, Sachin wrote, "Good to watch the security officer doing his job well at the @AustralianOpen. The manner in which @rogerfederer reacted was commendable as well. Such actions are not common today and they just increase the respect people have for great athletes like Roger."

A video the incident went viral on the social media yesterday, which showed the Swiss double defending champion stalled at the entrance for lacking his tournament accreditation.

The commendable part of the incident was there was no argument from the 37-year-old as he stopped and waited patiently for his entourage to catch up with him.

The guard allowed Federer to enter the locker room after one of his team mate flashed the badge at the security guard.

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Even <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> needs his accreditation 😂<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> (via <a href="https://twitter.com/Eurosport_UK?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Eurosport_UK</a>) 
 
<a href="https://t.co/oZETUaygSE">pic.twitter.com/oZETUaygSE</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1086512392714907649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The World No 3 is eyeing a record seventh Melbourne Park title and third in a row.&nbsp;

Former Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar on Sunday praised the security guard at the Australian Open, who stopped Swiss tennis star Roger Federer from entering the locker room without his identity card.

Former Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar on Sunday praised the security guard at the Australian Open, who stopped Swiss tennis star Roger Federer from entering the locker room without his identity card. Tendulkar also lauded the way the 20-time Grand Slam champion reacted to the situation, respecting the sentinel who was just doing his duty. Taking to his Twitter handle, Sachin wrote, "Good to watch the security officer doing his job well at the @AustralianOpen. The manner in which @rogerfederer reacted was commendable as well. Such actions are not common today and they just increase the respect people have for great athletes like Roger." A video the incident went viral on the social media yesterday, which showed the Swiss double defending champion stalled at the entrance for lacking his tournament accreditation. The commendable part of the incident was there was no argument from the 37-year-old as he stopped and waited patiently for his entourage to catch up with him. The guard allowed Federer to enter the locker room after one of his team mate flashed the badge at the security guard. Even @rogerfederer needs his accreditation 😂#AusOpen (via @Eurosport_UK) pic.twitter.com/oZETUaygSE — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 19, 2019 × The World No 3 is eyeing a record seventh Melbourne Park title and third in a row.

Sachin Tendulkar praises security guard who stopped Roger Federer from entering locker room without ID

Rules are rules in Australia, even for the 20-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer at the Australian Open in Melbourne.&nbsp;

Federer, world No 3 Tennis star, was blocked access to a locker room by a security guard who took his job very seriously.

A video circulating on Twitter showed the Swiss double defending champion stalled at the entrance for lacking his tournament accreditation.

Players, staff and media all wear identification badges on lanyards around their necks to access secure areas at Melbourne Park and even Federer was not allowed to breeze through without it.

The best part was, there was no argument from the 37-year-old as he stopped and waited patiently for his entourage to catch up with him.

He was finally let in when one of his team flashed the badge at the security guard, who nodded and smiled with the satisfaction.&nbsp;

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Even <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> needs his accreditation 😂<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> (via <a href="https://twitter.com/Eurosport_UK?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Eurosport_UK</a>) 
 
<a href="https://t.co/oZETUaygSE">pic.twitter.com/oZETUaygSE</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1086512392714907649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Federer will continue his bid for a record seventh Australian Open title against Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas in the fourth round on Sunday.&nbsp;

Rules are rules in Australia, even for the 20-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer at the Australian Open in Melbourne. Federer, world No 3 Tennis star, was blocked access to a locker room by a security guard who took his job very seriously.

Rules are rules in Australia, even for the 20-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer at the Australian Open in Melbourne. Federer, world No 3 Tennis star, was blocked access to a locker room by a security guard who took his job very seriously. A video circulating on Twitter showed the Swiss double defending champion stalled at the entrance for lacking his tournament accreditation. Players, staff and media all wear identification badges on lanyards around their necks to access secure areas at Melbourne Park and even Federer was not allowed to breeze through without it. The best part was, there was no argument from the 37-year-old as he stopped and waited patiently for his entourage to catch up with him. He was finally let in when one of his team flashed the badge at the security guard, who nodded and smiled with the satisfaction. Even @rogerfederer needs his accreditation 😂#AusOpen (via @Eurosport_UK) pic.twitter.com/oZETUaygSE — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 19, 2019 × Federer will continue his bid for a record seventh Australian Open title against Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas in the fourth round on Sunday.

Watch: Security guard refuses to identify Roger Federer, stops him from entering locker room without ID

Young American Amanda Anisimova upstaged 11th seed Aryna Sabalenka 6-3 6-2, hitting her way into the fourth round of the Australian Open on Friday.

The fearless 17-year-old bullied her much higher ranked opponent who looked shell-shocked by the power being generated at the other end of the court.

It was Anisimova's third consecutive straight sets win, which included a 6-0 6-2 destruction of 24th seed Lesia Tsurenko, signalling the arrival of a genuine new talent in the women's game.

Anisimova, the youngest competitor in the draw, will play the winner of Petra Kvitova and Belinda Bencic in the fourth round.

Young American Amanda Anisimova upstaged 11th seed Aryna Sabalenka 6-3 6-2, hitting her way into the fourth round of the Australian Open on Friday. The fearless 17-year-old bullied her much higher ranked opponent who looked shell-shocked by the power being generated at the other end of the court.

Young American Amanda Anisimova upstaged 11th seed Aryna Sabalenka 6-3 6-2, hitting her way into the fourth round of the Australian Open on Friday. The fearless 17-year-old bullied her much higher ranked opponent who looked shell-shocked by the power being generated at the other end of the court. It was Anisimova's third consecutive straight sets win, which included a 6-0 6-2 destruction of 24th seed Lesia Tsurenko, signalling the arrival of a genuine new talent in the women's game. Anisimova, the youngest competitor in the draw, will play the winner of Petra Kvitova and Belinda Bencic in the fourth round.

American teenager Anisimova humbles Sabalenka in Australian Open

In pictures: Roger Federer's easy win over America's Fritz to reach Australian Open last 16

The day MS Dhoni retires we will remember him hitting "that six" which won India the World Cup against Sri Lanka at the Wankhede in 2011. However, Dhoni's retirement day is still sometime in the future as the last over victory at Adelaide in the last over is anything any proof - the first ball six in the final over was vintage Dhoni.

Amazingly, both Dhoni and Swiss tennis star Roger Federer were born within thirty days of each other in 1981(Dhoni on July 7, Federer on August 8). The similarities between the two greats are also strikingly similar - both men display ice-cool composure under pressure.

Dhoni's latest sixer to win the match for India in the last over is nothing new for the former India captain, just like Federer who is now enjoying his second coming in tennis as a "veteran", Dhoni too at 37 is in the twilight of his career - and playing the role of "mentor-cum-finisher".

Both Kohli and coach Shastri have backed Dhoni to the hilt as "experts" kept harping that Indian wicketkeeper-batsman had lost form and confidence, unruffled the Jharkhand batsman hit two powerful half-centuries in the first two matches against Australia and topped it with another one at Melbourne.

Critics who say Dhoni must quit have to just look at his contribution to Team India, the "gentleman" as Gavaskar called him, stands behind the wicket for full 50 overs in the Australian heat which is at its peak this summer and then comes out to play match-winning innings - India cannot ask more from one man, fans ask for the moon and Dhoni often in his inimitable style delivers.

Federer had recently said he understands his physical condition best, on some days his coaching staff allows him to train hard and on others days he takes it easy allowing him to bring out his best game in crunch matches. Dhoni is quite similar. The Indian ODI wicketkeeper is still keeping the 21-year-old Rishabh Pant at home while he fights exhaustion and pressure to deliver for India.

The records too speak for itself, the ex-India captain has played 334 ODIs so far scoring 10 centuries at a stupendous strike rate of 87. Interestingly, it is not the strike rate or the runs but consistency - averaging 50.4 per innings sets Dhoni apart from any middle or top order batsman in a long span of 14 years of pressure cooker cricket.

As Gavaskar said "please leave the gentleman alone", it is time Indian fans and critics followed his advise. Dhoni must be allowed to go on his terms because once he retires "captain cool" will be hard to replace.

Dhoni's value to Team India is incalculable. 
 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

The day MS Dhoni retires we will remember him hitting "that six" which won India the World Cup against Sri Lanka at the Wankhede in 2011. However, Dhoni's retirement day is still sometime in the future as the last over victory at Adelaide in the last over is anything any proof - the first ball six in the final over was vintage Dhoni.

The day MS Dhoni retires we will remember him hitting "that six" which won India the World Cup against Sri Lanka at the Wankhede in 2011. However, Dhoni's retirement day is still sometime in the future as the last over victory at Adelaide in the last over is anything any proof - the first ball six in the final over was vintage Dhoni. Amazingly, both Dhoni and Swiss tennis star Roger Federer were born within thirty days of each other in 1981(Dhoni on July 7, Federer on August 8). The similarities between the two greats are also strikingly similar - both men display ice-cool composure under pressure. Dhoni's latest sixer to win the match for India in the last over is nothing new for the former India captain, just like Federer who is now enjoying his second coming in tennis as a "veteran", Dhoni too at 37 is in the twilight of his career - and playing the role of "mentor-cum-finisher". Both Kohli and coach Shastri have backed Dhoni to the hilt as "experts" kept harping that Indian wicketkeeper-batsman had lost form and confidence, unruffled the Jharkhand batsman hit two powerful half-centuries in the first two matches against Australia and topped it with another one at Melbourne. Critics who say Dhoni must quit have to just look at his contribution to Team India, the "gentleman" as Gavaskar called him, stands behind the wicket for full 50 overs in the Australian heat which is at its peak this summer and then comes out to play match-winning innings - India cannot ask more from one man, fans ask for the moon and Dhoni often in his inimitable style delivers. Federer had recently said he understands his physical condition best, on some days his coaching staff allows him to train hard and on others days he takes it easy allowing him to bring out his best game in crunch matches. Dhoni is quite similar. The Indian ODI wicketkeeper is still keeping the 21-year-old Rishabh Pant at home while he fights exhaustion and pressure to deliver for India. The records too speak for itself, the ex-India captain has played 334 ODIs so far scoring 10 centuries at a stupendous strike rate of 87. Interestingly, it is not the strike rate or the runs but consistency - averaging 50.4 per innings sets Dhoni apart from any middle or top order batsman in a long span of 14 years of pressure cooker cricket. As Gavaskar said "please leave the gentleman alone", it is time Indian fans and critics followed his advise. Dhoni must be allowed to go on his terms because once he retires "captain cool" will be hard to replace. Dhoni's value to Team India is incalculable. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Why MS Dhoni is the Roger Federer of cricket

Roger Federer's third-round masterclass against American Taylor Fritz at the Australian Open on Friday drew gushing praise from bad boy of tennis Nick Kyrgios during a guest commentary gig for the host broadcaster.

Federer, however, was less impressed with Kyrgios's work behind the microphone for the Nine Network.

Asked to comment on the Australian's assessments, which included "Federer's timing is scary good .... Oh, my goodness, butter, so smooth. He's zoning at the moment" among other pearls, the double defending champion suggested that the 23-year-old, as an analyst, made a great tennis player.

"Yeah, we need him to play first before commentating for the whatever 10-plus years," Federer said with a smile after beating Fritz in straight sets at Rod Laver Arena.

Former quarter-finalist Kyrgios was knocked out of the first round at Melbourne Park and signed off with a typically sour media conference, snapping at reporters and making sarcastic remarks.

Once touted as a future Grand Slam champion, Kyrgios's ranking has slumped to 52 amid struggles with injuries and is projected to fall further after the tournament.

"He's always good for a headline," said Federer.

"Look, I like Nick. I like the way he plays and all that. Yeah, I was happy to hear that he was in the commentary booth.

"He's got a bit of time, sticks around, shows he's passionate about the game. That's what we need to see.

"But we wish he was on the court rather than a commentary booth. But I hope he did a good job."

Federer will play Greek young gun Stefanos Tsitsipas for a place in the quarter-finals.

Roger Federer's third-round masterclass against American Taylor Fritz at the Australian Open on Friday drew gushing praise from bad boy of tennis Nick Kyrgios during a guest commentary gig for the host broadcaster.

Roger Federer's third-round masterclass against American Taylor Fritz at the Australian Open on Friday drew gushing praise from bad boy of tennis Nick Kyrgios during a guest commentary gig for the host broadcaster. Federer, however, was less impressed with Kyrgios's work behind the microphone for the Nine Network. Asked to comment on the Australian's assessments, which included "Federer's timing is scary good .... Oh, my goodness, butter, so smooth. He's zoning at the moment" among other pearls, the double defending champion suggested that the 23-year-old, as an analyst, made a great tennis player. "Yeah, we need him to play first before commentating for the whatever 10-plus years," Federer said with a smile after beating Fritz in straight sets at Rod Laver Arena. Former quarter-finalist Kyrgios was knocked out of the first round at Melbourne Park and signed off with a typically sour media conference, snapping at reporters and making sarcastic remarks. Once touted as a future Grand Slam champion, Kyrgios's ranking has slumped to 52 amid struggles with injuries and is projected to fall further after the tournament. "He's always good for a headline," said Federer. "Look, I like Nick. I like the way he plays and all that. Yeah, I was happy to hear that he was in the commentary booth. "He's got a bit of time, sticks around, shows he's passionate about the game. That's what we need to see. "But we wish he was on the court rather than a commentary booth. But I hope he did a good job." Federer will play Greek young gun Stefanos Tsitsipas for a place in the quarter-finals.

Nick Kyrgios is better on court than behind mike, says Roger Federer

In pics: Highlights of Day 3 of the Australian Open

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