Holder Roger Federer recovered from a slow start to beat Jan-Lennard Struff 6-3, 7-5 and reach the quarter-finals of the Swiss Indoors, his hometown tournament, on Thursday.

The top seed was broken in the second game of the second-round match by the big-serving German but, after going 3-1 behind, the 37-year-old hit back to win five successive games in 13 minutes and take the first set.

The second set went with serve until the 11th game when Struff made two unforced errors, including a double fault on break point.

Federer comfortably held serve to complete his third victory over Struff this year and claim his 17th successive win at the tournament, a run stretching back to 2014.

After claiming the title in 2014 and 2015, Federer missed the 2016 tournament through injury but won it again last year.

Second seed Alexander Zverev got past Australian qualifier Alexei Popryin 6-4 6-4 to secure his 51st win of the season.

German Zverev, chasing a fourth ATP title this season, lost only two first-serve points on the way to victory.

Fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas, who last week became the first Greek to win an ATP title when he triumphed in Stockholm, swept aside Germany's Peter Gojowczyk 6-3, 6-1 to continue his impressive season.

Holder Roger Federer recovered from a slow start to beat Jan-Lennard Struff 6-3, 7-5 and reach the quarter-finals of the Swiss Indoors, his hometown tournament, on Thursday.

Holder Roger Federer recovered from a slow start to beat Jan-Lennard Struff 6-3, 7-5 and reach the quarter-finals of the Swiss Indoors, his hometown tournament, on Thursday. The top seed was broken in the second game of the second-round match by the big-serving German but, after going 3-1 behind, the 37-year-old hit back to win five successive games in 13 minutes and take the first set. The second set went with serve until the 11th game when Struff made two unforced errors, including a double fault on break point. Federer comfortably held serve to complete his third victory over Struff this year and claim his 17th successive win at the tournament, a run stretching back to 2014. After claiming the title in 2014 and 2015, Federer missed the 2016 tournament through injury but won it again last year. Second seed Alexander Zverev got past Australian qualifier Alexei Popryin 6-4 6-4 to secure his 51st win of the season. German Zverev, chasing a fourth ATP title this season, lost only two first-serve points on the way to victory. Fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas, who last week became the first Greek to win an ATP title when he triumphed in Stockholm, swept aside Germany's Peter Gojowczyk 6-3, 6-1 to continue his impressive season.

Swiss Indoors: Roger Federer reaches quarter-finals after defeating Jan-Lennard Struff

Roger Federer has revealed that he has been suffering with a hand injury since the summer, but said the problem is no longer a worry as he heads into his home Swiss Open starting on Monday.

The 20-time Grand Slam winner told Germany's Sonntag Zeitung of the problem which began when he trained for the grasscourt season.

"I hurt my hand training at the start of the grass season," Federer told the newspaper.

"It's had more consequences than I thought. I dragged this pain for about three months.

"It's not an excuse and we're not going to make a fuss over it." He added: "(Sometimes) I felt pain during the first ten minutes of a match warmup. But now I can let go of my forehand normally without thinking of it."

The 37-year-old Federer will start his bid for a ninth Basel title on Tuesday when he plays Serbia's Filip Krajinovic and could face a revenge match in the second round if he and John Millman both advance.

The 33rd-ranked Australian shocked Federer in the US Open fourth round in September.

The Swiss, who will be playing only his second ATP tournament since the US Open, has a huge reputation to live up to at home, having won the trophy in three of the last four editions.

The defending champion, ranked third in the world, takes the top seeding with German Alexander Zverev seeded second after losing in the first round in his only previous appearance here four years ago.

Marin Cilic, the Basel winner in 2016, takes the third spot and starts against Canadian teenager Denis Shapovalov while Zverev plays Robin Haase in the opening round.

Stefanos Tsitsipas, who on Sunday became the first Greek winner of an ATP tournament when he triumphed in Stockholm, makes his Basel main draw debut as fourth seed and faces off against Frenchman Jeremy Chardy.&nbsp;

Roger Federer has revealed that he has been suffering with a hand injury since the summer, but said the problem is no longer a worry as he heads into his home Swiss Open starting on Monday.

Roger Federer has revealed that he has been suffering with a hand injury since the summer, but said the problem is no longer a worry as he heads into his home Swiss Open starting on Monday. The 20-time Grand Slam winner told Germany's Sonntag Zeitung of the problem which began when he trained for the grasscourt season. "I hurt my hand training at the start of the grass season," Federer told the newspaper. "It's had more consequences than I thought. I dragged this pain for about three months. "It's not an excuse and we're not going to make a fuss over it." He added: "(Sometimes) I felt pain during the first ten minutes of a match warmup. But now I can let go of my forehand normally without thinking of it." The 37-year-old Federer will start his bid for a ninth Basel title on Tuesday when he plays Serbia's Filip Krajinovic and could face a revenge match in the second round if he and John Millman both advance. The 33rd-ranked Australian shocked Federer in the US Open fourth round in September. The Swiss, who will be playing only his second ATP tournament since the US Open, has a huge reputation to live up to at home, having won the trophy in three of the last four editions. The defending champion, ranked third in the world, takes the top seeding with German Alexander Zverev seeded second after losing in the first round in his only previous appearance here four years ago. Marin Cilic, the Basel winner in 2016, takes the third spot and starts against Canadian teenager Denis Shapovalov while Zverev plays Robin Haase in the opening round. Stefanos Tsitsipas, who on Sunday became the first Greek winner of an ATP tournament when he triumphed in Stockholm, makes his Basel main draw debut as fourth seed and faces off against Frenchman Jeremy Chardy.

Roger Federer reveals long-standing hand injury

Roger that! Can't copy & paste player. It's nice to be only one Roger Federer

Spain's <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?title=rafael+nadal">Rafael Nadal</a> maintained the top spot of men's Association of Tennis Professionals world singles rankings released on Monday with 7,660 points.

Serbia's <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?title=Novak+Djokovic">Novak Djokovic</a>, who has returned to his brutal best this season with Grand Slam wins at Wimbledon and US Open, climbed one spot up to the second after winning the Shanghai Masters title for the fourth time in a row on Sunday.

He is 215 points away from Nadal's position and warned that he is gunning for Rafael Nadal's world number one ranking.

"He warned that he is gunning for Rafael Nadal's world number one ranking after winning the title," said Djokovic.

Djokovic overtook Switzerland's <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?title=roger+federer">Roger Federer</a> in the standings, pushing him down to third.

The rest of the top-10 remained unchanged, as Alexander Zverev of Germany stayed at No. 5, followed by Marin Cilic of Croatia.

Meanwhile, Australia's Matthew Ebden jumped 11 positions up to the 40th, after reaching the quarterfinals of the Asian tournament.

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The current top-10 ATP rankings and point scores are as follows:

1. Rafael Nadal (Spain) 7,660 points

2. Novak Djokovic (Serbia) 7,445

3. Roger Federer (Switzerland) 6,260

4. Juan Martin del Potro (Argentina) 5,860

5. Alexander Zverev (Germany) 5,025

6. Marin Cilic (Croatia) 4,185

7. Dominic Thiem (Austria) 3,825

8. Kevin Anderson (South Africa) 3,775

9. Grigor Dimitrov (Bulgaria) 3,440

10. John Isner (United States) 3,290.

Spain's Rafael Nadal maintained the top spot of men's Association of Tennis Professionals world singles rankings released on Monday with 7,660 points. Serbia's Novak Djokovic, who has returned to his brutal best this season with Grand Slam wins at Wimbledon and US Open, climbed one spot up to the second after winning the Shanghai Masters title for the fourth time in a row on Sunday.

Spain's Rafael Nadal maintained the top spot of men's Association of Tennis Professionals world singles rankings released on Monday with 7,660 points. Serbia's Novak Djokovic, who has returned to his brutal best this season with Grand Slam wins at Wimbledon and US Open, climbed one spot up to the second after winning the Shanghai Masters title for the fourth time in a row on Sunday. He is 215 points away from Nadal's position and warned that he is gunning for Rafael Nadal's world number one ranking. "He warned that he is gunning for Rafael Nadal's world number one ranking after winning the title," said Djokovic. Djokovic overtook Switzerland's Roger Federer in the standings, pushing him down to third. The rest of the top-10 remained unchanged, as Alexander Zverev of Germany stayed at No. 5, followed by Marin Cilic of Croatia. Meanwhile, Australia's Matthew Ebden jumped 11 positions up to the 40th, after reaching the quarterfinals of the Asian tournament. .@borna_coric is mover of the week after a run to the @SH_RolexMasters final. View Latest ATP Race To London: https://t.co/m5MT6dDjoU pic.twitter.com/N6seZcqllT — ATP World Tour (@ATPWorldTour) October 15, 2018 × The current top-10 ATP rankings and point scores are as follows: 1. Rafael Nadal (Spain) 7,660 points 2. Novak Djokovic (Serbia) 7,445 3. Roger Federer (Switzerland) 6,260 4. Juan Martin del Potro (Argentina) 5,860 5. Alexander Zverev (Germany) 5,025 6. Marin Cilic (Croatia) 4,185 7. Dominic Thiem (Austria) 3,825 8. Kevin Anderson (South Africa) 3,775 9. Grigor Dimitrov (Bulgaria) 3,440 10. John Isner (United States) 3,290.

Rafael Nadal holds top spot in ATP rankings, Djokovic in 2nd

Roger Federer, who crashed out of the ongoing Shanghai Masters after losing to Borna Coric of Germany in their semi-final match, said he is happy with his performance as he is playing well on the court.

The 37-year-old added that he is now looking forward to the upcoming tournaments.

"I'm actually happy. I feel like I'm explosive out there, returning well," said Federer.&nbsp;

"Serving, I think, it's okay, could be even a little bit better. I don't think I played a match where I didn't get broken, so that's something a bit more unusual for me," he added.&nbsp;

"I must say I felt overall actually pretty good. It's definitely something I can build on now for Basel and then for London and maybe Paris. I'm happy how the body has felt this week," he concluded.&nbsp;

&nbsp;The World no 2 admitted that he could have done a better job in serving, adding, the Croatian had more punch than him.

Roger Federer, who crashed out of the ongoing Shanghai Masters after losing to Borna Coric of Germany in their semi-final match, said he is happy with his performance as he is playing well on the court.

Roger Federer, who crashed out of the ongoing Shanghai Masters after losing to Borna Coric of Germany in their semi-final match, said he is happy with his performance as he is playing well on the court. The 37-year-old added that he is now looking forward to the upcoming tournaments. "I'm actually happy. I feel like I'm explosive out there, returning well," said Federer. "Serving, I think, it's okay, could be even a little bit better. I don't think I played a match where I didn't get broken, so that's something a bit more unusual for me," he added. "I must say I felt overall actually pretty good. It's definitely something I can build on now for Basel and then for London and maybe Paris. I'm happy how the body has felt this week," he concluded. The World no 2 admitted that he could have done a better job in serving, adding, the Croatian had more punch than him.

Roger Federer not disappointed post final defeat

Croatia's Borna Coric produced a masterful display of power-hitting to stun holder Roger Federer&nbsp;6-4, 6-4 in the Shanghai Masters on Saturday&nbsp;and book a final against Novak Djokovic.

Coric was quick out of the blocks at the Qi Zhong Stadium as he broke in the opening game against the top seed in China and only lost five points on serve to clinch the first set in 34 minutes.

Federer, competing in his first ATP tournament since a shock last-16 exit at the US&nbsp;Open, struggled for control against Coric's bludgeoning returns as the 13th seeded Croat clinched another early break to reach his first ATP Masters final.

The 21-year-old got his second straight win over&nbsp;Federer, having beaten the Swiss to lift the Halle title in June.

Coric, world-ranked 19th, will face one of his toughest tests of the season against Djokovic in Sunday's showpiece.

Three-time Shanghai Open winner Djokovic stormed past German Alexander Zverev 6-2, 6-1 in Saturday's earlier semi and claimed the world number two ranking from&nbsp;Federer.

Djokovic did not face a break point en route to a 59-minute victory as he extended his winning streak to 17 ATP matches.

Second seed Djokovic, who has returned to his brutal best this season with Grand Slam wins at Wimbledon and the US Open will surpass&nbsp;Federer&nbsp;as world number two when the next edition of the ATP rankings are released on Monday.

Croatia's Borna Coric produced a masterful display of power-hitting to stun holder Roger Federer 6-4, 6-4 in the Shanghai Masters on Saturday and book a final against Novak Djokovic.

Croatia's Borna Coric produced a masterful display of power-hitting to stun holder Roger Federer 6-4, 6-4 in the Shanghai Masters on Saturday and book a final against Novak Djokovic. Coric was quick out of the blocks at the Qi Zhong Stadium as he broke in the opening game against the top seed in China and only lost five points on serve to clinch the first set in 34 minutes. Federer, competing in his first ATP tournament since a shock last-16 exit at the US Open, struggled for control against Coric's bludgeoning returns as the 13th seeded Croat clinched another early break to reach his first ATP Masters final. The 21-year-old got his second straight win over Federer, having beaten the Swiss to lift the Halle title in June. Coric, world-ranked 19th, will face one of his toughest tests of the season against Djokovic in Sunday's showpiece. Three-time Shanghai Open winner Djokovic stormed past German Alexander Zverev 6-2, 6-1 in Saturday's earlier semi and claimed the world number two ranking from Federer. Djokovic did not face a break point en route to a 59-minute victory as he extended his winning streak to 17 ATP matches. Second seed Djokovic, who has returned to his brutal best this season with Grand Slam wins at Wimbledon and the US Open will surpass Federer as world number two when the next edition of the ATP rankings are released on Monday.

Borna Coric stuns Federer in Shanghai, faces Djokovic in final

Fernando Verdasco's treatment of a ball boy who failed to bring him his sweaty towel fast enough has thrust tennis players' attitudes towards the child volunteers into the spotlight, and could prompt changes.

The 34-year-old Spaniard has not commented on the incident, when he aggressively gesticulated at a ball boy to hurry up during last month's Shenzhen Open in China.

The footage went viral on social media and saw Verdasco heavily criticised.

Judy Murray, the former British Fed Cup captain and mother of three-time Grand Slam winner Andy, tweeted: "What about a rule that makes players get their own towels?" Others, while condemning Verdasco's behaviour, pointed out that he is by no means the first tennis player to treat a ball kid harshly.

Last week at the China Open, the Belarusian Aryna Sabalenka was caught in footage shaking an empty bottle in the apparent direction of a ball boy, before tossing it on the floor.

"I don't care how good a tennis player you are but this type of behaviour needs to STOP," tweeted Anne Keothavong, Britain's Fed Cup captain.

At this week's Shanghai Masters, Roger Federer said tennis sets the standard for many sports when it comes to respectful behaviour -- and that must extend to the treatment of ball boys and girls.

"The ball kids are really important to us because they are also maybe the future of our game, like I was," said the Swiss, a ball boy before going on to become a 20-time Grand Slam champion.

"You don't want to have them leaving with feeling, oh my God, I was not appreciated or I was not liked or it was a horrible thing." But Federer, 37, the defending champion in Shanghai, pointed out that emotions run high in the heat of a match and that tennis is more intense now than in the past.

In 2015 Novak Djokovic, now a 14-time Grand Slam winner, apologised to a Wimbledon ball girl after he screamed in her direction, leaving her looking shaken.

- Towel rack -

The Verdasco incident in particular highlighted the issue of ball kids being asked to handle sweaty and snotty towels for players, many of whom like to wipe their faces after each point.

Federer said that players are under pressure not to hold games, up so it is quicker for the ball boy to hand them the towel rather than fetch it themselves.

"The show's got to (keep) moving on. So all this stuff, it's quite hectic to be quite honest, even though it seems like we have a lot of time," he said on

Tuesday. One solution is a towel rack at the back of the court.

That will be tested out at next month's Next Gen ATP Finals in Milan, which brings together the best players aged 21 and under.

World number one Rafael Nadal has spoken out, saying that he is not a fan because it will slow matches down.

Kei Nishikori, Japan's world number 12, agrees.

"Maybe I don't prefer that one. Maybe that may take some time," he said. Federer, who said players often use their towel wipe-down to gather their thoughts between points, is happy to see the racks given a go, but has his reservations.

"If now you've got a hook or a rail in the back, I don't know, it's like are you wasting extra three seconds of time each and every point? "Which doesn't sound like a lot, but you add that over a five-hour match, next thing you know, you saw much less tennis."

This year's US Open introduced a 25-second serve clock for all matches, an innovation which will also be used at the Australian Open in January.&nbsp;

Fernando Verdasco's treatment of a ball boy who failed to bring him his sweaty towel fast enough has thrust tennis players' attitudes towards the child volunteers into the spotlight, and could prompt changes.

Fernando Verdasco's treatment of a ball boy who failed to bring him his sweaty towel fast enough has thrust tennis players' attitudes towards the child volunteers into the spotlight, and could prompt changes. The 34-year-old Spaniard has not commented on the incident, when he aggressively gesticulated at a ball boy to hurry up during last month's Shenzhen Open in China. The footage went viral on social media and saw Verdasco heavily criticised. Judy Murray, the former British Fed Cup captain and mother of three-time Grand Slam winner Andy, tweeted: "What about a rule that makes players get their own towels?" Others, while condemning Verdasco's behaviour, pointed out that he is by no means the first tennis player to treat a ball kid harshly. Last week at the China Open, the Belarusian Aryna Sabalenka was caught in footage shaking an empty bottle in the apparent direction of a ball boy, before tossing it on the floor. "I don't care how good a tennis player you are but this type of behaviour needs to STOP," tweeted Anne Keothavong, Britain's Fed Cup captain. At this week's Shanghai Masters, Roger Federer said tennis sets the standard for many sports when it comes to respectful behaviour -- and that must extend to the treatment of ball boys and girls. "The ball kids are really important to us because they are also maybe the future of our game, like I was," said the Swiss, a ball boy before going on to become a 20-time Grand Slam champion. "You don't want to have them leaving with feeling, oh my God, I was not appreciated or I was not liked or it was a horrible thing." But Federer, 37, the defending champion in Shanghai, pointed out that emotions run high in the heat of a match and that tennis is more intense now than in the past. In 2015 Novak Djokovic, now a 14-time Grand Slam winner, apologised to a Wimbledon ball girl after he screamed in her direction, leaving her looking shaken. - Towel rack - The Verdasco incident in particular highlighted the issue of ball kids being asked to handle sweaty and snotty towels for players, many of whom like to wipe their faces after each point. Federer said that players are under pressure not to hold games, up so it is quicker for the ball boy to hand them the towel rather than fetch it themselves. "The show's got to (keep) moving on. So all this stuff, it's quite hectic to be quite honest, even though it seems like we have a lot of time," he said on Tuesday. One solution is a towel rack at the back of the court. That will be tested out at next month's Next Gen ATP Finals in Milan, which brings together the best players aged 21 and under. World number one Rafael Nadal has spoken out, saying that he is not a fan because it will slow matches down. Kei Nishikori, Japan's world number 12, agrees. "Maybe I don't prefer that one. Maybe that may take some time," he said. Federer, who said players often use their towel wipe-down to gather their thoughts between points, is happy to see the racks given a go, but has his reservations. "If now you've got a hook or a rail in the back, I don't know, it's like are you wasting extra three seconds of time each and every point? "Which doesn't sound like a lot, but you add that over a five-hour match, next thing you know, you saw much less tennis." This year's US Open introduced a 25-second serve clock for all matches, an innovation which will also be used at the Australian Open in January.

'Get your own towels' - tennis rallies round ball kids after Verdasco spat

Twenty-time Grand Slam Roger Federer will look to start his campaign at the ongoing Shanghai Master on a winning note while facing Daniil Medvedev of Russia in their Round Two match of the men's singles event here on Wednesday.

The 37-year-old will be heading into the tournament, having won 13 of his last 16 matches.

Since missing out on the US Open title after being defeated by Australia's John Millman in their pre-quarters clash, he had played just two matches in Laver Cup.

Medvedev, on the other hand, is also on a roll having recently clinched the Japan Open trophy after registering a stunning victory over home favourite Kei Nishikori. Both the players will be playing for the first time against each other.

Meanwhile, Serbian tennis ace Novak Djokovic moved to the third round of the ongoing tournament after thrashing France`s Jeremy Chardy 6-3, 7-5 in their round of 32 clash.

Twenty-time Grand Slam Roger Federer will look to start his campaign at the ongoing Shanghai Master on a winning note while facing Daniil Medvedev of Russia in their Round Two match of the men's singles event here on Wednesday.

Twenty-time Grand Slam Roger Federer will look to start his campaign at the ongoing Shanghai Master on a winning note while facing Daniil Medvedev of Russia in their Round Two match of the men's singles event here on Wednesday. The 37-year-old will be heading into the tournament, having won 13 of his last 16 matches. Since missing out on the US Open title after being defeated by Australia's John Millman in their pre-quarters clash, he had played just two matches in Laver Cup. Medvedev, on the other hand, is also on a roll having recently clinched the Japan Open trophy after registering a stunning victory over home favourite Kei Nishikori. Both the players will be playing for the first time against each other. Meanwhile, Serbian tennis ace Novak Djokovic moved to the third round of the ongoing tournament after thrashing France`s Jeremy Chardy 6-3, 7-5 in their round of 32 clash.

Roger Federer looks to kickstart Shanghai Masters with a bang

Roger Federer warned temperamental Australian Nick Kyrgios on Tuesday that he would never fulfil his potential without the work ethic to go with his talent.

The 23-year-old Kyrgios made another contentious exit from the Shanghai Masters on Monday after a running argument with the chair umpire who suggested his efforts were "borderline".

The 38th-ranked Kyrgios was on the end of a surprise first-round loss to the American qualifier Bradley Klahn, the world number 104 winning 4-6, 6-4, 6-3.

It is the third time in as many Shanghai appearances that Kyrgios has departed the Masters 1000 event under a cloud.

Speaking in Shanghai, where Federer is the top seed and reigning champion, the 37-year-old Swiss great called Kyrgios "a great player".

But he also sounded a note of caution.

"I think it's really up to him where he wants to go and what his potential really holds," said the 20-time Grand Slam winner.

"We don't really know and I don't think he really knows exactly what his potential is.

"And only through understanding work ethic and scheduling and whatever it might be, creating the right team around himself, only then can you unlock the potential really."

Kyrgios, who this week lost his status as Australia's number one to 33rd-ranked Alex de Minaur, has a chequered history in Shanghai.

Last year he was fined after he walked off mid-way through his first-round match, and in 2016 he was suspended and fined after being accused of giving away points in another defeat.

Federer, who admitted that the hard graft did not necessarily come naturally to him either, backed Kyrgios to "win bigger tournaments and do all these things".&nbsp;

"But there is still a process in place that he needs to do like any other player needs to go through in order to be successful," he added.

'It's regrettable'

Shanghai is not the only scene of a Kyrgios controversy.

At the recent US Open, a disinterested Kyrgios was given a controversial mid-match pep talk by an umpire as he drifted towards a second-round defeat.

"I want to help you," chair umpire Mohamed Lahyani told Kyrgios, who went on to capture 19 of the next 25 games and set up a clash against Federer in New York.

Australian doubles great Todd Woodbridge said the scheduling of Shanghai, a compulsory tournament at the tail-end of the season, seemed to be a problem for Kyrgios.

"Nick plays his best tennis when he's fresh, when he's enjoying himself and he's engaged," said Woodbridge, according to the Melbourne Age.

"When he has to go somewhere and that isn't the case, we see him a little jaded and we see him play the way that he did... Scheduling is huge for him. He gets tired and then it's regrettable for him."

Kyrgios made no initial public comment after his defeat to qualifier Klahn, but has previously spoken of his intent to learn from Federer.

"I think we're two very different characters," said Kyrgios following his defeat to the Swiss at the US Open.

"But I think, you know, just the way he goes about things, I could take a leaf out of his book."

Roger Federer warned temperamental Australian Nick Kyrgios on Tuesday that he would never fulfil his potential without the work ethic to go with his talent. The 23-year-old Kyrgios made another contentious exit from the Shanghai Masters on Monday after a running argument with the chair umpire who suggested his efforts were "borderline".

Roger Federer warned temperamental Australian Nick Kyrgios on Tuesday that he would never fulfil his potential without the work ethic to go with his talent. The 23-year-old Kyrgios made another contentious exit from the Shanghai Masters on Monday after a running argument with the chair umpire who suggested his efforts were "borderline". The 38th-ranked Kyrgios was on the end of a surprise first-round loss to the American qualifier Bradley Klahn, the world number 104 winning 4-6, 6-4, 6-3. It is the third time in as many Shanghai appearances that Kyrgios has departed the Masters 1000 event under a cloud. Speaking in Shanghai, where Federer is the top seed and reigning champion, the 37-year-old Swiss great called Kyrgios "a great player". But he also sounded a note of caution. "I think it's really up to him where he wants to go and what his potential really holds," said the 20-time Grand Slam winner. "We don't really know and I don't think he really knows exactly what his potential is. "And only through understanding work ethic and scheduling and whatever it might be, creating the right team around himself, only then can you unlock the potential really." Kyrgios, who this week lost his status as Australia's number one to 33rd-ranked Alex de Minaur, has a chequered history in Shanghai. Last year he was fined after he walked off mid-way through his first-round match, and in 2016 he was suspended and fined after being accused of giving away points in another defeat. Federer, who admitted that the hard graft did not necessarily come naturally to him either, backed Kyrgios to "win bigger tournaments and do all these things". "But there is still a process in place that he needs to do like any other player needs to go through in order to be successful," he added. 'It's regrettable' Shanghai is not the only scene of a Kyrgios controversy. At the recent US Open, a disinterested Kyrgios was given a controversial mid-match pep talk by an umpire as he drifted towards a second-round defeat. "I want to help you," chair umpire Mohamed Lahyani told Kyrgios, who went on to capture 19 of the next 25 games and set up a clash against Federer in New York. Australian doubles great Todd Woodbridge said the scheduling of Shanghai, a compulsory tournament at the tail-end of the season, seemed to be a problem for Kyrgios. "Nick plays his best tennis when he's fresh, when he's enjoying himself and he's engaged," said Woodbridge, according to the Melbourne Age. "When he has to go somewhere and that isn't the case, we see him a little jaded and we see him play the way that he did... Scheduling is huge for him. He gets tired and then it's regrettable for him." Kyrgios made no initial public comment after his defeat to qualifier Klahn, but has previously spoken of his intent to learn from Federer. "I think we're two very different characters," said Kyrgios following his defeat to the Swiss at the US Open. "But I think, you know, just the way he goes about things, I could take a leaf out of his book."

Roger Federer warns Kyrgios over work ethic after Shanghai strop

Tennis players need to respect ball boys and ball girls, Roger Federer said in the wake of a row following Fernando Verdasco's rant over a sweaty towel.

Spaniard Verdasco was cast as a villain on social media last week after appearing to berate a ball boy for not bringing his towel quickly enough during a semi-final defeat at the Shenzen Open.

A video of the world number 30 impatiently gesticulating and appearing to rant at the youngster swiftly circulated on social media, leading to a raft of criticism from fans and pundits.

Federer on Tuesday stopped short of criticising Verdasco -- acknowledging that nerves can become ragged in competition -- but he did stress the need to respect ball kids.

"Sure you always want to respect the ball kids for who they are and the great job that they're doing," the Swiss said, adding "but it's not easy for each and every player to control their emotions exactly."

Federer, who himself acted as a ball boy in his youth, said he felt most of the young helpers understood the pressure players are under, but that it was vital they enjoyed a good experience at tournaments.

"The ball kids are really important to us because they are also maybe the future of our game," the Swiss, in Shangahi for the Masters tournament, said.

"I was happy when I left a tennis tournament, I felt like, 'oh man, it was just all good'," he said of his time as a ball boy.

"There were no negatives, so you don't want to have them leave feeling like, oh my god, like I was not appreciated or I was not liked or it was actually a horrible thing, you know?

"So yes, it needs to be taken care of."

Not so long ago the likes of Bjorn Borg, John McEnroe and Jimmy Connors would fetch their own drinks and take care of themselves at changeovers.

These days modern pampered players plant themselves in a courtside chair and gesture for drinks, ice-packs, bananas, towels, new rackets and anything else they may need.

The tide, though, may be turning.

At next month's Next Gen ATP Finals in Milan -- the season-ending tournament for the best Under-21 male players -- players will be instructed to use a towel rack at the end of the court "to remove the onus on ball kids to handle towels".

Tennis players need to respect ball boys and ball girls, Roger Federer said in the wake of a row following Fernando Verdasco's rant over a sweaty towel. Spaniard Verdasco was cast as a villain on social media last week after appearing to berate a ball boy for not bringing his towel quickly enough during a semi-final defeat at the Shenzen Open.

Tennis players need to respect ball boys and ball girls, Roger Federer said in the wake of a row following Fernando Verdasco's rant over a sweaty towel. Spaniard Verdasco was cast as a villain on social media last week after appearing to berate a ball boy for not bringing his towel quickly enough during a semi-final defeat at the Shenzen Open. A video of the world number 30 impatiently gesticulating and appearing to rant at the youngster swiftly circulated on social media, leading to a raft of criticism from fans and pundits. Federer on Tuesday stopped short of criticising Verdasco -- acknowledging that nerves can become ragged in competition -- but he did stress the need to respect ball kids. "Sure you always want to respect the ball kids for who they are and the great job that they're doing," the Swiss said, adding "but it's not easy for each and every player to control their emotions exactly." Federer, who himself acted as a ball boy in his youth, said he felt most of the young helpers understood the pressure players are under, but that it was vital they enjoyed a good experience at tournaments. "The ball kids are really important to us because they are also maybe the future of our game," the Swiss, in Shangahi for the Masters tournament, said. "I was happy when I left a tennis tournament, I felt like, 'oh man, it was just all good'," he said of his time as a ball boy. "There were no negatives, so you don't want to have them leave feeling like, oh my god, like I was not appreciated or I was not liked or it was actually a horrible thing, you know? "So yes, it needs to be taken care of." Not so long ago the likes of Bjorn Borg, John McEnroe and Jimmy Connors would fetch their own drinks and take care of themselves at changeovers. These days modern pampered players plant themselves in a courtside chair and gesture for drinks, ice-packs, bananas, towels, new rackets and anything else they may need. The tide, though, may be turning. At next month's Next Gen ATP Finals in Milan -- the season-ending tournament for the best Under-21 male players -- players will be instructed to use a towel rack at the end of the court "to remove the onus on ball kids to handle towels".

Tennis: Respect ball kids, Roger Federer tells fellow pros

Kevin Anderson avenged a Wimbledon finals loss to Novak Djokovic as Team World dominated the night session Saturday to climb back into contention at the 2018 Laver Cup.

Anderson's surprise win, combined with a doubles victory by World's Jack Sock and Nick Kyrgios over Grigor Dimitrov and David Goffin, slashed Europe's overall lead to 7-5 heading into Sunday's third and final day of the exhibition tournament.

Earlier Saturday, Roger Federer and Alexander Zverev powered Europe into a commanding 7-1 lead by winning their singles matches to set a daunting task for the underdog World team in Chicago.

South Africa's Anderson got the fightback started by upsetting reigning Wimbledon and US Open champ Djokovic 7-6, 5-7, 10-6 to earn two points for Team World at the United Center arena.

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With 3 points per match win up for grabs on Sunday, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamEurope2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamEurope2018</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamWorld2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamWorld2018</a> are perfectly poised for an explosive finale. 
 
Here's a reminder of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LaverCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LaverCup</a> points standings.<a href="https://twitter.com/MercedesBenz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MercedesBenz</a> <a href="https://t.co/A6EHQaUbTz">pic.twitter.com/A6EHQaUbTz</a>
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"We've had some really close matches that haven't gone our way and I really wanted to put us back in there," said Anderson.

"It's not easy playing one of the best players of all time, but what an amazing atmosphere.

"It's just fantastic, for so many reasons. I felt I played a great match – beating Novak on any stage is great and here in Chicago makes it extra special."

Under the scoring system for the Laver Cup, victories on day two are worth two points each, with victories on day three rising to three points.

Defending champion Europe needs 13 points to take the title, which is being held for the second time.

Djokovic, who was making his Laver Cup singles debut, partnered with Roger Federer in doubles on Friday night where they lost to Anderson and Sock.

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Sunday's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LaverCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LaverCup</a> Lineup is confirmed and it promises another massive day of edge-of-your-seat action. Will <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamEurope2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamEurope2018</a> hold on to the coveted trophy or will <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamWorld2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamWorld2018</a> avenge their 2017 loss?<a href="https://twitter.com/jpmorgan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jpmorgan</a> <a href="https://t.co/D7OiJvXcRR">pic.twitter.com/D7OiJvXcRR</a>
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Heading into Saturday's match, 14-time grand slam winner Djokovic held a 6-1 career advantage, including a 6-2, 6-2, 7-6 (7/3) win over Anderson in July at Wimbledon. This was Anderson's first singles win over Djokovic in a decade.&nbsp;

On Saturday, they played the fourth 10 point tiebreaker of the tournament and it was the first win for Team World. Under the format being used for the tournament, a tiebreak is used instead of a decisive third set.

Anderson closed it out when the Serb fired a forehand into the net and the South African was mobbed by his teammates.

"Kevin was so well prepared for this, we needed this bad," said World captain&nbsp;John McEnroe. "It was absolutely awesome."

Federer on fire

World number two Roger Federer was barely ruffled as he cruised to a 6-3, 6-2 win over Kyrgios.

"I felt good from the beginning of the match and that’s not usual," said Federer. "Usually you need matches to get going and play your best in the third round or quarters of a tournament."

Earlier, Zverev saved a match point to defeat John Isner in day two's opening singles rubber.

Zverev, 21, dug deep to hold off the big-serving Isner to win 3-6, 7-6 (8/6), 10-7.

After dominating Friday's opening day, winning three out of the four matches, Europe's progress looked to be checked after Isner grabbed the first set against Zverev.

But rising German star Zverev showed great determination in saving a match point at 6-5 down in the second-set tie-break to level the contest.

Zverev then raced into the lead in the tiebreak before closing out for the win.

Kevin Anderson avenged a Wimbledon finals loss to Novak Djokovic as Team World dominated the night session Saturday to climb back into contention at the 2018 Laver Cup.

Kevin Anderson avenged a Wimbledon finals loss to Novak Djokovic as Team World dominated the night session Saturday to climb back into contention at the 2018 Laver Cup. Anderson's surprise win, combined with a doubles victory by World's Jack Sock and Nick Kyrgios over Grigor Dimitrov and David Goffin, slashed Europe's overall lead to 7-5 heading into Sunday's third and final day of the exhibition tournament. Earlier Saturday, Roger Federer and Alexander Zverev powered Europe into a commanding 7-1 lead by winning their singles matches to set a daunting task for the underdog World team in Chicago. South Africa's Anderson got the fightback started by upsetting reigning Wimbledon and US Open champ Djokovic 7-6, 5-7, 10-6 to earn two points for Team World at the United Center arena. With 3 points per match win up for grabs on Sunday, #TeamEurope2018 and #TeamWorld2018 are perfectly poised for an explosive finale. Here's a reminder of the #LaverCup points standings.@MercedesBenz pic.twitter.com/A6EHQaUbTz — Laver Cup (@LaverCup) September 23, 2018 × "We've had some really close matches that haven't gone our way and I really wanted to put us back in there," said Anderson. "It's not easy playing one of the best players of all time, but what an amazing atmosphere. "It's just fantastic, for so many reasons. I felt I played a great match – beating Novak on any stage is great and here in Chicago makes it extra special." Under the scoring system for the Laver Cup, victories on day two are worth two points each, with victories on day three rising to three points. Defending champion Europe needs 13 points to take the title, which is being held for the second time. Djokovic, who was making his Laver Cup singles debut, partnered with Roger Federer in doubles on Friday night where they lost to Anderson and Sock. Sunday's #LaverCup Lineup is confirmed and it promises another massive day of edge-of-your-seat action. Will #TeamEurope2018 hold on to the coveted trophy or will #TeamWorld2018 avenge their 2017 loss?@jpmorgan pic.twitter.com/D7OiJvXcRR — Laver Cup (@LaverCup) September 23, 2018 × Heading into Saturday's match, 14-time grand slam winner Djokovic held a 6-1 career advantage, including a 6-2, 6-2, 7-6 (7/3) win over Anderson in July at Wimbledon. This was Anderson's first singles win over Djokovic in a decade. On Saturday, they played the fourth 10 point tiebreaker of the tournament and it was the first win for Team World. Under the format being used for the tournament, a tiebreak is used instead of a decisive third set. Anderson closed it out when the Serb fired a forehand into the net and the South African was mobbed by his teammates. "Kevin was so well prepared for this, we needed this bad," said World captain John McEnroe. "It was absolutely awesome." Federer on fire World number two Roger Federer was barely ruffled as he cruised to a 6-3, 6-2 win over Kyrgios. "I felt good from the beginning of the match and that’s not usual," said Federer. "Usually you need matches to get going and play your best in the third round or quarters of a tournament." Earlier, Zverev saved a match point to defeat John Isner in day two's opening singles rubber. Zverev, 21, dug deep to hold off the big-serving Isner to win 3-6, 7-6 (8/6), 10-7. After dominating Friday's opening day, winning three out of the four matches, Europe's progress looked to be checked after Isner grabbed the first set against Zverev. But rising German star Zverev showed great determination in saving a match point at 6-5 down in the second-set tie-break to level the contest. Zverev then raced into the lead in the tiebreak before closing out for the win.

World team storms back to cut Europe's lead at Laver Cup

World number two Roger Federer says he is mulling a return to the European clay-court season in 2019 following a two-year absence.

Federer, speaking to ESPN on the sidelines of this weekend's Laver Cup, has skipped the clay-court segment of the season since 2017 in order to conserve energy for Wimbledon and hard-court seasons.

However the 37-year-old revealed he is rethinking his scheduling for next season, and may yet play on clay.

"The clay-court season is under review," Federer told ESPN. "It's not off the table. I will know by the end of the year."

Three ATP Masters events are held on clay as well as several smaller tournaments in the build up to the French Open.

Federer said if he does opt to play the clay-court season it will require a significant tweak of his training regime.

"I would like to make up my mind ahead of time so I can plan my buildup, my fitness schedule, even the way I would approach my December practice sessions," Federer said. "It could benefit the clay-court season.

"This is something that is obviously a big deal. If you play the clay, it changes everything."

Federer has won a record 20 Grand Slam singles titles but clay has been his least favourite surface. His haul of Grand Slam titles includes only one victory at Roland Garros, in 2009, when he completed his career Grand Slam.

He last reached the French Open final in 2011, when he was beaten in four sets by Rafael Nadal.

World number two Roger Federer says he is mulling a return to the European clay-court season in 2019 following a two-year absence. Federer, speaking to ESPN on the sidelines of this weekend's Laver Cup, has skipped the clay-court segment of the season since 2017 in order to conserve energy for Wimbledon and hard-court seasons.

World number two Roger Federer says he is mulling a return to the European clay-court season in 2019 following a two-year absence. Federer, speaking to ESPN on the sidelines of this weekend's Laver Cup, has skipped the clay-court segment of the season since 2017 in order to conserve energy for Wimbledon and hard-court seasons. However the 37-year-old revealed he is rethinking his scheduling for next season, and may yet play on clay. "The clay-court season is under review," Federer told ESPN. "It's not off the table. I will know by the end of the year." Three ATP Masters events are held on clay as well as several smaller tournaments in the build up to the French Open. Federer said if he does opt to play the clay-court season it will require a significant tweak of his training regime. "I would like to make up my mind ahead of time so I can plan my buildup, my fitness schedule, even the way I would approach my December practice sessions," Federer said. "It could benefit the clay-court season. "This is something that is obviously a big deal. If you play the clay, it changes everything." Federer has won a record 20 Grand Slam singles titles but clay has been his least favourite surface. His haul of Grand Slam titles includes only one victory at Roland Garros, in 2009, when he completed his career Grand Slam. He last reached the French Open final in 2011, when he was beaten in four sets by Rafael Nadal.

Federer mulling clay court return in 2019

The Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic accidentally hit his Swiss partner Roger Federer while playing Laver Cup doubles match against Jack Sock and Kevin Anderson of Team World, a match which was the talk of the town since the schedule was announced.&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer of Team Europe paired up for the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/team-world-socks-it-federer-djokovic-laver-cup-167110">men's doubles match</a>, which they <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/team-world-socks-it-federer-djokovic-laver-cup-167110">eventually lost</a> 6-7, 6-3, 10-6.&nbsp;

Despite the loss, the Serbian and Swiss had a fun moment when Djoko accidentally struck the ball on Federer's back in the third game.&nbsp;

Watch the video:&nbsp;

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Well, that was AWKWARD 😳 <a href="https://t.co/WHJKFL56qD">pic.twitter.com/WHJKFL56qD</a>
— Laver Cup (@LaverCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/LaverCup/status/1043329896360161280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Djokovic rubbed Federer's back to pacify the pain and laughed off with him on the funny incident along with the crowd.&nbsp;

The Serb said "his heart stopped for like three seconds" as the pair spoke about the incident on the bench.&nbsp;

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Well, that explains THAT, then. <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RogerFederer</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DjokerNole</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Fedovic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Fedovic</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Djokerer?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Djokerer</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LaverCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LaverCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/GGxp4qmTkD">pic.twitter.com/GGxp4qmTkD</a>
— Laver Cup (@LaverCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/LaverCup/status/1043330809749532673?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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First set to <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RogerFederer</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DjokerNole</a> 7-6(5) over Anderson &amp; Sock. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LaverCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LaverCup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Fedovic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Fedovic</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Djokerer?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Djokerer</a> <a href="https://t.co/71yhnrBETf">pic.twitter.com/71yhnrBETf</a>
— Laver Cup (@LaverCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/LaverCup/status/1043340315338465280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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I feel like Rog has spent the last half hour explaining why all those charts on Twitter saying Nole is the GOAT are wrong. 🐐🚫🤣 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Federer?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Federer</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Djokovic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Djokovic</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LaverCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LaverCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/whRh7xTHjV">pic.twitter.com/whRh7xTHjV</a>
— Tennis Inside Out (@TennisInsideOut) <a href="https://twitter.com/TennisInsideOut/status/1043242473932382209?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Yeah they did! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamEurope2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamEurope2018</a> are getting their bench game on! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LaverCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LaverCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/FKvfxIyQys">pic.twitter.com/FKvfxIyQys</a>
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We love a match tiebreaker at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LaverCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LaverCup</a>!<a href="https://twitter.com/KAndersonATP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KAndersonATP</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/JackSock?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JackSock</a> claim the second set 6-3 to push Match 4 into a deciding 'breaker. <a href="https://t.co/nEQyo9PClf">pic.twitter.com/nEQyo9PClf</a>
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The Laver Cup is an international indoor hard court men's tennis tournament between two teams: Team Europe and Team World, the latter of which is composed of players from non-European countries.&nbsp;

This is the second edition of the tournament, which held annually and takes place two weeks after the US Open, with the location rotating.&nbsp;

This time it is scheduled in Chicago from September 21-23, 2018, at the United Center.&nbsp;

The Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic accidentally hit his Swiss partner Roger Federer while playing Laver Cup doubles match against Jack Sock and Kevin Anderson of Team World, a match which was the talk of the town since the schedule was announced.

The Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic accidentally hit his Swiss partner Roger Federer while playing Laver Cup doubles match against Jack Sock and Kevin Anderson of Team World, a match which was the talk of the town since the schedule was announced. Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer of Team Europe paired up for the men's doubles match, which they eventually lost 6-7, 6-3, 10-6. Despite the loss, the Serbian and Swiss had a fun moment when Djoko accidentally struck the ball on Federer's back in the third game. Watch the video: Well, that was AWKWARD 😳 pic.twitter.com/WHJKFL56qD — Laver Cup (@LaverCup) September 22, 2018 × Djokovic rubbed Federer's back to pacify the pain and laughed off with him on the funny incident along with the crowd. The Serb said "his heart stopped for like three seconds" as the pair spoke about the incident on the bench. Well, that explains THAT, then. @RogerFederer @DjokerNole#Fedovic #Djokerer #LaverCup pic.twitter.com/GGxp4qmTkD — Laver Cup (@LaverCup) September 22, 2018 × Watch related videos: First set to @RogerFederer & @DjokerNole 7-6(5) over Anderson & Sock. #LaverCup #Fedovic #Djokerer pic.twitter.com/71yhnrBETf — Laver Cup (@LaverCup) September 22, 2018 × I feel like Rog has spent the last half hour explaining why all those charts on Twitter saying Nole is the GOAT are wrong. 🐐🚫🤣 #Federer #Djokovic #LaverCup pic.twitter.com/whRh7xTHjV — Tennis Inside Out (@TennisInsideOut) September 21, 2018 × Yeah they did! #TeamEurope2018 are getting their bench game on! #LaverCup pic.twitter.com/FKvfxIyQys — Laver Cup (@LaverCup) September 21, 2018 × We love a match tiebreaker at #LaverCup!@KAndersonATP & @JackSock claim the second set 6-3 to push Match 4 into a deciding 'breaker. pic.twitter.com/nEQyo9PClf — Laver Cup (@LaverCup) September 22, 2018 × The Laver Cup is an international indoor hard court men's tennis tournament between two teams: Team Europe and Team World, the latter of which is composed of players from non-European countries. This is the second edition of the tournament, which held annually and takes place two weeks after the US Open, with the location rotating. This time it is scheduled in Chicago from September 21-23, 2018, at the United Center.

Awkward: Novak Djokovic accidentally hits teammate Roger Federer during Laver Cup doubles clash, watch video

Kevin Anderson and Jack Sock spoiled the doubles debut of Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic but Team Europe still led Team World 3-1 after the first day of the 2018 Laver Cup.

Grigor Dimitrov, David Goffin and Kyle Edmund all won their opening singles matches Friday to give Team Europe a commanding 3-0 lead going into the evening's final doubles match.

Team World's Jack Sock and Kevin Anderson needed a tiebreaker to defeat the doubles dream team of Federer and Djokovic 6-7, 6-3, 10-6.

Sock and Anderson won the tiebreaker after Federer double-faulted to give Team World a key 5-4 lead.

Earlier in the day, Europe's Dimitrov cruised past Frances Tiafoe 6-1, 6-4, Goffin saved two match points to outlast Diego Schwartzman 6-4, 4-6, 11-9 and Edmund toppled World's Sock 6-4, 5-7, 10-6.

This is the second instalment of the Laver Cup which has been dubbed the Ryder Cup of tennis, although it lacks the tradition of golf's premier team event.

The exhibition is taking place on US soil for the first time and features 12 of the world's top players squaring off against each other in a three-day showcase which wraps up Sunday in Chicago.

The format calls for shorter matches. If the players split sets, they go straight to a 10-point tiebreaker. On Saturday, wins will be worth two points each instead of one.

Dimitrov used his precision backhand to keep Tiafoe off balance as he closed out the match with his 10th and final ace. The Bulgarian hammered 27 winners to just seven for Tiafoe.

"It's pretty nice to play indoors -&nbsp;no sun, no wind," Dimitrov said. "When you get in a&nbsp;good rhythm you just want to follow it. I think today that's what I did."

Bjorn Borg's favoured Team Europe are trying to defend their crown against Team World which is captained by the legendary John McEnroe.

Federer, Djokovic, Alexander Zverev, Dimitrov, Goffin and Edmund make up Team Europe. Federer played in the first Laver Cup but Djokovic is taking part for the first time.

Sock, Nick Kyrgios, John Isner, Tiafoe, Anderson and &nbsp;Schwartzman are representing Team World.

The event is named in honour of tennis legend Rod Laver, who won a record 200 singles titles, 11 Grand Slams and five Davis Cups for Australia.

Kevin Anderson and Jack Sock spoiled the doubles debut of Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic but Team Europe still led Team World 3-1 after the first day of the 2018 Laver Cup.

Kevin Anderson and Jack Sock spoiled the doubles debut of Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic but Team Europe still led Team World 3-1 after the first day of the 2018 Laver Cup. Grigor Dimitrov, David Goffin and Kyle Edmund all won their opening singles matches Friday to give Team Europe a commanding 3-0 lead going into the evening's final doubles match. Team World's Jack Sock and Kevin Anderson needed a tiebreaker to defeat the doubles dream team of Federer and Djokovic 6-7, 6-3, 10-6. Sock and Anderson won the tiebreaker after Federer double-faulted to give Team World a key 5-4 lead. Earlier in the day, Europe's Dimitrov cruised past Frances Tiafoe 6-1, 6-4, Goffin saved two match points to outlast Diego Schwartzman 6-4, 4-6, 11-9 and Edmund toppled World's Sock 6-4, 5-7, 10-6. This is the second instalment of the Laver Cup which has been dubbed the Ryder Cup of tennis, although it lacks the tradition of golf's premier team event. The exhibition is taking place on US soil for the first time and features 12 of the world's top players squaring off against each other in a three-day showcase which wraps up Sunday in Chicago. The format calls for shorter matches. If the players split sets, they go straight to a 10-point tiebreaker. On Saturday, wins will be worth two points each instead of one. Dimitrov used his precision backhand to keep Tiafoe off balance as he closed out the match with his 10th and final ace. The Bulgarian hammered 27 winners to just seven for Tiafoe. "It's pretty nice to play indoors - no sun, no wind," Dimitrov said. "When you get in a good rhythm you just want to follow it. I think today that's what I did." Bjorn Borg's favoured Team Europe are trying to defend their crown against Team World which is captained by the legendary John McEnroe. Federer, Djokovic, Alexander Zverev, Dimitrov, Goffin and Edmund make up Team Europe. Federer played in the first Laver Cup but Djokovic is taking part for the first time. Sock, Nick Kyrgios, John Isner, Tiafoe, Anderson and Schwartzman are representing Team World. The event is named in honour of tennis legend Rod Laver, who won a record 200 singles titles, 11 Grand Slams and five Davis Cups for Australia.

Team World socks it to Federer-Djokovic at Laver Cup

World Number 2 Roger Federer heaped praise on Serena Williams and described her as the greatest player to have played the Tennis sport.&nbsp

"She [Serena] had a totally different upbringing - I came up through Switzerland with the federation, she did it with her dad and her sister. It's an amazing story unto itself - and then she became one of the greatest, if not the greatest tennis player of all time," Federer said.

Williams has won a record 23 Grand Slam titles in women's singles in Open Era.&nbsp

The 36-year-old also moved ahead of Steffi Graf with her record seventh Australian title in 2017.

On being asked about his views on Serena-Venus Williams to compete as a wild-card entry at Roland Garros, Federer said, "I'm in full admiration of Serena. And Venus, too, by the way. It's incredible they're all still at it. Rafa's still playing, I'm still playing, Serena and Venus are still playing-and it seems like they love it more than ever."

"We know [Serena] is all the way up there. I'm probably up there with somebody, somehow. Maybe there's a group, a best of five - and if you're in that group, you should be pleased and happy. Tennis is a funky sport when it comes to that stuff," the world number 2 concluded.&nbsp

Serena, who was blessed with a baby girl in September last year, returned to the court in March, but is yet to win a title this year.&nbsp 
&nbsp

Williams has won a record 23 Grand Slam titles in women's singles in Open Era.

World Number 2 Roger Federer heaped praise on Serena Williams and described her as the greatest player to have played the Tennis sport. "She [Serena] had a totally different upbringing - I came up through Switzerland with the federation, she did it with her dad and her sister. It's an amazing story unto itself - and then she became one of the greatest, if not the greatest tennis player of all time," Federer said. Williams has won a record 23 Grand Slam titles in women's singles in Open Era. The 36-year-old also moved ahead of Steffi Graf with her record seventh Australian title in 2017. On being asked about his views on Serena-Venus Williams to compete as a wild-card entry at Roland Garros, Federer said, "I'm in full admiration of Serena. And Venus, too, by the way. It's incredible they're all still at it. Rafa's still playing, I'm still playing, Serena and Venus are still playing-and it seems like they love it more than ever." "We know [Serena] is all the way up there. I'm probably up there with somebody, somehow. Maybe there's a group, a best of five - and if you're in that group, you should be pleased and happy. Tennis is a funky sport when it comes to that stuff," the world number 2 concluded. Serena, who was blessed with a baby girl in September last year, returned to the court in March, but is yet to win a title this year.

Serena Williams 'greatest' Tennis player ever: Roger Federer

Portuguese footballer Cristiano&nbsp;Ronaldo&nbsp;topped the ESPN World Fame 100 list for a third straight year, pipping American basketball player Lebron James and long-term Argentine rival Lionel Messi.

Real Madrid forward&nbsp;Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d'Or winner, was named the most popular athlete in the world on the basis of his social media following, endorsement deals and search score.

Three-time NBA champion Lebron James retained his second spot on the list, while Messi came third on the back of his ninth league title with Barcelona.

Brazil's Neymar, who became the world's most expensive footballer after his 222 million euros ($261.6 million) move from Barcelona to Paris St Germain last August, took the fourth spot.

Swiss Roger Federer, one of the most decorated players in tennis history, came fifth ahead of NBA star Kevin Durant and Spanish rival Rafa Nadal.

American tennis icon Serena Williams replaces former UFC fighter Ronda Rousey as the most famous female athlete, with twelve women making the 2018 list compared to eight last year.

Three-time NBA champion Lebron James retained his second spot on the list, while Messi came third on the back of his ninth league title with Barcelona

Portuguese footballer Cristiano Ronaldo topped the ESPN World Fame 100 list for a third straight year, pipping American basketball player Lebron James and long-term Argentine rival Lionel Messi. Real Madrid forward Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d'Or winner, was named the most popular athlete in the world on the basis of his social media following, endorsement deals and search score. Three-time NBA champion Lebron James retained his second spot on the list, while Messi came third on the back of his ninth league title with Barcelona. Brazil's Neymar, who became the world's most expensive footballer after his 222 million euros ($261.6 million) move from Barcelona to Paris St Germain last August, took the fourth spot. Swiss Roger Federer, one of the most decorated players in tennis history, came fifth ahead of NBA star Kevin Durant and Spanish rival Rafa Nadal. American tennis icon Serena Williams replaces former UFC fighter Ronda Rousey as the most famous female athlete, with twelve women making the 2018 list compared to eight last year.

Cristiano Ronaldo retains top spot in ESPN World Fame 100 list for third straight year

This week, Roger Federer became world number 1 in ATP ranking yet again, the fifth time in his career. He dethroned Rafael Nadal from the summit position. Earlier this year, Federer won Australian Open (his record 20th Grand Slam) and subsequently became world number one after a gap of more than five years.

When I look at these pieces of information, the mind goes numb. This is simply crazy as Federer won his first Grand Slam way back in 2003 and Nadal in 2005 and one-and-a-half decades down the line these two are still (or say again) ruling the roost.

Tennis is a demanding business and if you are even iota short of your best form and fitness, the downfall is imminent. In this scenario, the run of these two greats is no less than a miracle.

Actually, It has been a while now that men's Tennis is waiting for the next big superstar. Novak Djokovic was the last of the series (as I would not include Andy Murray and Sten Wawrinka in that top league).

In Tennis, legends mark their arrival with a big thud. The announcement of their arrival is usually loud, clear and unequivocal.

I remember in 1985, teenaged Boris Becker won Wimbledon. Similarly, Pete Sampras won US Open in 1990 - Andre Agassi won Wimbledon in 1992 - Federer announced his arrival by defeating Sampras in 2001 Wimbledon - Nadal as a 19-year-old boy won French Open in 2005.

These legends embarked upon an incredible journey after their first noticeable victory as mentioned above. Some though proved to a damp squib after their impressive start. Michael Chang, Marat Safin, Lleyton Hewitt and Andy Roddick are few such names.

Last time such thud was created by Djokovic in 2008 when he won Australian Open and certainly he is a legend of the game with 12 Grand Slams.

So it has been a decade now that men's Tennis is waiting for its next superstar. In the history of Tennis, this gap is truly unparalleled. It is well manifested in the arrival of legends in the past - John McEnroe (1981), Boris Becker and Stefan Edberg (1985), Pete Sampras (1990), Andre Agassi (1992), Roger Federer (2001), Nadal (2005) and Djokovic (2008) and then there is a wait since 2008.

Fraternity believed that German Alexander Zverev could be the next possible superstar but so far he hasn't delivered a decisive impact. When Juan Martín del Potro won US Open, he was a potential next big name but he couldn’t really deliver the punch. Canadian teenager Denis Shapovalov, who is just 19 years of age, can potentially be the next big name but time only will tell that how far he goes. As such Shapovalov was impressive in Australian Open this year. He is tough competitor, big server and like Federer possess a strong single handed backhand.

But the whole credit of the situation goes to Federer & Nadal (and Djokovic as well). In a sport like Tennis, which evolves very fast it is simply incredible to compete and rule among players of different generations. The best of Tennis players in the past could hold their sway normally for a decade but Federer and Nadal are on the horizon for 15 years now. If Federer won the first Grand Slam of the year, it is Nadal who is favourite for the second Grand Slam of the year. It is French Open which would start in two weeks' time.

As two of the greatest players of all times are still ruling the scene after 12-15 years, time is ripe for men's tennis to have its next superstar.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

It has been a decade now that men's Tennis is waiting for its next superstar.

This week, Roger Federer became world number 1 in ATP ranking yet again, the fifth time in his career. He dethroned Rafael Nadal from the summit position. Earlier this year, Federer won Australian Open (his record 20th Grand Slam) and subsequently became world number one after a gap of more than five years. When I look at these pieces of information, the mind goes numb. This is simply crazy as Federer won his first Grand Slam way back in 2003 and Nadal in 2005 and one-and-a-half decades down the line these two are still (or say again) ruling the roost. Tennis is a demanding business and if you are even iota short of your best form and fitness, the downfall is imminent. In this scenario, the run of these two greats is no less than a miracle. Actually, It has been a while now that men's Tennis is waiting for the next big superstar. Novak Djokovic was the last of the series (as I would not include Andy Murray and Sten Wawrinka in that top league). In Tennis, legends mark their arrival with a big thud. The announcement of their arrival is usually loud, clear and unequivocal. I remember in 1985, teenaged Boris Becker won Wimbledon. Similarly, Pete Sampras won US Open in 1990 - Andre Agassi won Wimbledon in 1992 - Federer announced his arrival by defeating Sampras in 2001 Wimbledon - Nadal as a 19-year-old boy won French Open in 2005. These legends embarked upon an incredible journey after their first noticeable victory as mentioned above. Some though proved to a damp squib after their impressive start. Michael Chang, Marat Safin, Lleyton Hewitt and Andy Roddick are few such names. Last time such thud was created by Djokovic in 2008 when he won Australian Open and certainly he is a legend of the game with 12 Grand Slams. So it has been a decade now that men's Tennis is waiting for its next superstar. In the history of Tennis, this gap is truly unparalleled. It is well manifested in the arrival of legends in the past - John McEnroe (1981), Boris Becker and Stefan Edberg (1985), Pete Sampras (1990), Andre Agassi (1992), Roger Federer (2001), Nadal (2005) and Djokovic (2008) and then there is a wait since 2008. Fraternity believed that German Alexander Zverev could be the next possible superstar but so far he hasn't delivered a decisive impact. When Juan Martín del Potro won US Open, he was a potential next big name but he couldn’t really deliver the punch. Canadian teenager Denis Shapovalov, who is just 19 years of age, can potentially be the next big name but time only will tell that how far he goes. As such Shapovalov was impressive in Australian Open this year. He is tough competitor, big server and like Federer possess a strong single handed backhand. But the whole credit of the situation goes to Federer & Nadal (and Djokovic as well). In a sport like Tennis, which evolves very fast it is simply incredible to compete and rule among players of different generations. The best of Tennis players in the past could hold their sway normally for a decade but Federer and Nadal are on the horizon for 15 years now. If Federer won the first Grand Slam of the year, it is Nadal who is favourite for the second Grand Slam of the year. It is French Open which would start in two weeks' time. As two of the greatest players of all times are still ruling the scene after 12-15 years, time is ripe for men's tennis to have its next superstar. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: After Nadal & Federer, who will be the next ATP superstar?

Roger Federer has reclaimed the number one position in the latest ATP rankings, after Rafael Nadal's surprise quarter-final exit at the Madrid Masters.&nbsp;

The strange part is, Federer returned to the top spot despite not having played since March. He’s did not participate in the clay-court season for a second consecutive season.

Meanwhile, former world No. 1 Novak Djokovic slipped six places to 18th after his second-round defeat in Madrid.

Madrid winner Alexander Zverev remains third, but the man he beat in Sunday's final, Dominic Thiem, dropped a place to eighth despite knocking out Nadal on his way to facing Zverev.

The highest mover in the men's charts is Madrid semi-finalist Denis Shapovalov with the Russian teenager jumping 14 rungs to a best-ever 29th.

ATP rankings as of May 14:

1. Roger Federer (SUI) 8,670 pts (+1)

2. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 7,950 (-1)

3. Alexander Zverev (GER) 6,015

4. Grigor Dimitrov (BUL) 4,870

5. Marin Cilic (CRO) 4,770

6. Juan Martin Del Potro (ARG) 4,540

7. Kevin Anderson (RSA) 3,660 (+1)

8. Dominic Thiem (AUT) 3,545 (-1)

9. John Isner (USA) 3,305

10. David Goffin (BEL) 2,930

11. Pablo Carreno (ESP) 2,280

12. Sam Querrey (USA) 2,220 (+1)

13. Roberto Bautista (ESP) 2,210 (+1)

14. Jack Sock (USA) 2,155 (+1)

15. Diego Schwartzman (ARG) 2,130 (+1)

16. Lucas Pouille (FRA) 1,995 (+2)

17. Tomas Berdych (CZE) 1,980

18. Novak Djokovic (SRB) 1,905 (-6)

19. Kyle Edmund (ENG) 1,905 (+3)

20. Hyeon Chung (KOR) 1,807 (+1)

Former world No. 1 Novak Djokovic slipped six places to 18th after his second-round defeat in Madrid

Roger Federer has reclaimed the number one position in the latest ATP rankings, after Rafael Nadal's surprise quarter-final exit at the Madrid Masters. The strange part is, Federer returned to the top spot despite not having played since March. He’s did not participate in the clay-court season for a second consecutive season. Meanwhile, former world No. 1 Novak Djokovic slipped six places to 18th after his second-round defeat in Madrid. Madrid winner Alexander Zverev remains third, but the man he beat in Sunday's final, Dominic Thiem, dropped a place to eighth despite knocking out Nadal on his way to facing Zverev. The highest mover in the men's charts is Madrid semi-finalist Denis Shapovalov with the Russian teenager jumping 14 rungs to a best-ever 29th. ATP rankings as of May 14: 1. Roger Federer (SUI) 8,670 pts (+1) 2. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 7,950 (-1) 3. Alexander Zverev (GER) 6,015 4. Grigor Dimitrov (BUL) 4,870 5. Marin Cilic (CRO) 4,770 6. Juan Martin Del Potro (ARG) 4,540 7. Kevin Anderson (RSA) 3,660 (+1) 8. Dominic Thiem (AUT) 3,545 (-1) 9. John Isner (USA) 3,305 10. David Goffin (BEL) 2,930 11. Pablo Carreno (ESP) 2,280 12. Sam Querrey (USA) 2,220 (+1) 13. Roberto Bautista (ESP) 2,210 (+1) 14. Jack Sock (USA) 2,155 (+1) 15. Diego Schwartzman (ARG) 2,130 (+1) 16. Lucas Pouille (FRA) 1,995 (+2) 17. Tomas Berdych (CZE) 1,980 18. Novak Djokovic (SRB) 1,905 (-6) 19. Kyle Edmund (ENG) 1,905 (+3) 20. Hyeon Chung (KOR) 1,807 (+1)

Despite sitting out since March, Roger Federer replaces Rafael Nadal as world No. 1

Spanish Tennis player Rafael Nadal claimed another Monte Carlo Masters title as he defeated Kei Nishikori in Sunday's final.

With this win, he retained the world number one ranking.

The result is significant because Nadal will retain his status as world No 1. Roger Federer would have taken over if Nadal failed to win in Monaco.

Nadal beat Kei Nishikori 6-3 6-2 in the final to secure a remarkable 11th championship in 14 years, and a third in a row.

His 31st Masters title is also an outright record, pulling him out of a tie with Novak Djokovic. 
&nbsp

With this win, he retained the world number one ranking.

Spanish Tennis player Rafael Nadal claimed another Monte Carlo Masters title as he defeated Kei Nishikori in Sunday's final. With this win, he retained the world number one ranking. The result is significant because Nadal will retain his status as world No 1. Roger Federer would have taken over if Nadal failed to win in Monaco. Nadal beat Kei Nishikori 6-3 6-2 in the final to secure a remarkable 11th championship in 14 years, and a third in a row. His 31st Masters title is also an outright record, pulling him out of a tie with Novak Djokovic.

Monte Carlo Masters: Rafael Nadal wins for 3rd consecutive year

World number one Rafael Nadal swept aside Grigor Dimitrov to ease into his 12th Monte Carlo Masters final with a 6-4, 6-1 victory on Saturday.

The 31-year-old, who needs to win an 11th Monaco title to retain the number one ranking ahead of Roger Federer, will face either Kei Nishikori or Alexander Zverev in Sunday`s final.

Nadal came through a tight first set but always looked too strong for Dimitrov and raced through the second in less than half an hour.

The top seed is bidding for a record-extending 31st Masters title this week, and this win saw him extend his run of consecutive sets won on clay to 34.

Nadal is playing in his first ATP tournament since pulling out of his Australian Open quarter-final against Marin Cilic in January with a hip injury, but has shown no signs of rust in the principality.

Following a 6-0, 6-2 last-eight thrashing of Dominic Thiem, Nadal has now lost only 16 games in four matches this week.

He saw a 3-0 first-set lead slip away as Dimitrov laid down the first real challenge to the Spaniard this week, only for a sloppy service game from the Bulgarian to gift the 10-time champion the opening set.

That effectively ended Dimitrov`s chances, and Nadal broke to love in the second game of the second set.

Eight straight points on his opponent`s serve saw Nadal storm towards the finishing line, and a wide Dimitrov backhand wrapped up yet another comfortable victory.

The 31-year-old will face either Kei Nishikori or Alexander Zverev in Sunday's final.

World number one Rafael Nadal swept aside Grigor Dimitrov to ease into his 12th Monte Carlo Masters final with a 6-4, 6-1 victory on Saturday. The 31-year-old, who needs to win an 11th Monaco title to retain the number one ranking ahead of Roger Federer, will face either Kei Nishikori or Alexander Zverev in Sunday`s final. Nadal came through a tight first set but always looked too strong for Dimitrov and raced through the second in less than half an hour. The top seed is bidding for a record-extending 31st Masters title this week, and this win saw him extend his run of consecutive sets won on clay to 34. Nadal is playing in his first ATP tournament since pulling out of his Australian Open quarter-final against Marin Cilic in January with a hip injury, but has shown no signs of rust in the principality. Following a 6-0, 6-2 last-eight thrashing of Dominic Thiem, Nadal has now lost only 16 games in four matches this week. He saw a 3-0 first-set lead slip away as Dimitrov laid down the first real challenge to the Spaniard this week, only for a sloppy service game from the Bulgarian to gift the 10-time champion the opening set. That effectively ended Dimitrov`s chances, and Nadal broke to love in the second game of the second set. Eight straight points on his opponent`s serve saw Nadal storm towards the finishing line, and a wide Dimitrov backhand wrapped up yet another comfortable victory.

Nadal brushes aside Dimitrov to reach 12th Monte Carlo final

Rafael Nadal reclaimed top spot in the men's ATP rankings on Monday a day after Swiss rival Roger Federer crashed out in Miami to American John Isner.

Nadal, who hasn't hit a ball in anger since pulling out of the Australian Open quarter-finals in January, saw Federer take over top spot on February 18.

The Swiss veteran, however, slipped 10 points behind his Spanish rival and into second place after a second round defeat to Isner that saw the towering American leap eight places to ninth thanks to his eventual victory Sunday in the Masters 1000 event.

Isner thus equals his previous best ranking of ninth, reached in April 2012, while beaten finalist Alexander Zverev of Germany moved up one place to fourth.

South Korea's Hyeon Chung meanwhile continued to chip away at the rankings, the 21-year-old breaking into the top 20, to 19th, for the first time in his fledgling career thanks to his quarter-final appearance in Miami.

ATP rankings at April 2(change in ranking in brackets):

1. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 8.770 pts (+1)

2. Roger Federer (SUI) 8.670 (-1)

3. Marin Cilic (CRO) 4.985

4. Alexander Zverev (GER) 4.925 (+1)

5. Grigor Dimitrov (BUL) 4.635 (-1)

6. Juan Martin Del Potro (ARG) 4.470

7. Dominic Thiem (AUT) 3.665

8. Kevin Anderson (RSA) 3.390

9. John Isner (USA) 3.125 (+8)

10. David Goffin (BEL) 3.110 (-1)

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Look who’s back on top! ? 
 
Congrats Rafael Nadal for returning to No. 1 in the ATP Rankings today. 
 
➡️ <a href="https://t.co/5w2P1t0UuA">https://t.co/5w2P1t0UuA</a> <a href="https://t.co/J3w7Oz8Aat">pic.twitter.com/J3w7Oz8Aat</a>
— ATP World Tour (@ATPWorldTour) <a href="https://twitter.com/ATPWorldTour/status/980681869070086144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Rafael Nadal reclaimed top spot in the men's ATP rankings on Monday a day after Swiss rival Roger Federer crashed out in Miami to American John Isner

Rafael Nadal reclaimed top spot in the men's ATP rankings on Monday a day after Swiss rival Roger Federer crashed out in Miami to American John Isner. Nadal, who hasn't hit a ball in anger since pulling out of the Australian Open quarter-finals in January, saw Federer take over top spot on February 18. The Swiss veteran, however, slipped 10 points behind his Spanish rival and into second place after a second round defeat to Isner that saw the towering American leap eight places to ninth thanks to his eventual victory Sunday in the Masters 1000 event. Isner thus equals his previous best ranking of ninth, reached in April 2012, while beaten finalist Alexander Zverev of Germany moved up one place to fourth. South Korea's Hyeon Chung meanwhile continued to chip away at the rankings, the 21-year-old breaking into the top 20, to 19th, for the first time in his fledgling career thanks to his quarter-final appearance in Miami. ATP rankings at April 2(change in ranking in brackets): 1. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 8.770 pts (+1) 2. Roger Federer (SUI) 8.670 (-1) 3. Marin Cilic (CRO) 4.985 4. Alexander Zverev (GER) 4.925 (+1) 5. Grigor Dimitrov (BUL) 4.635 (-1) 6. Juan Martin Del Potro (ARG) 4.470 7. Dominic Thiem (AUT) 3.665 8. Kevin Anderson (RSA) 3.390 9. John Isner (USA) 3.125 (+8) 10. David Goffin (BEL) 3.110 (-1) Look who’s back on top! ? Congrats Rafael Nadal for returning to No. 1 in the ATP Rankings today. ➡️ https://t.co/5w2P1t0UuA pic.twitter.com/J3w7Oz8Aat — ATP World Tour (@ATPWorldTour) April 2, 2018 ×

Rafael Nadal reclaims ATP top spot as Federer slips

Roger Federer won&#39;t go for a 21st Grand Slam title at the French Open, with the 36-year-old Swiss great saying Saturday he&#39;ll skip the clay-court season.

Federer confirmed the plan after falling 3-6, 6-3, 7-6 (7/4) to Australian qualifier Thanasi Kokkinakis in the second round of the Miami Masters.

&quot;I decided not to play the clay season,&quot; said Federer, who won his 20th Grand Slam tournament at the Australian Open in January, but will lose the world number one ranking to Rafael Nadal after his shock defeat.

It&#39;s the second straight year that Federer will forego a clay-court campaign.

Last year after winning back-to-back tournaments at Indian Wells and Miami he took a break, returning in mid-June at the grass-court tournament in Stuttgart.

He lost his first match there but went on to win at Halle and Wimbledon.

The Swiss great said he would be skipping the entire clay court season, for the second time in a row

Roger Federer won't go for a 21st Grand Slam title at the French Open, with the 36-year-old Swiss great saying Saturday he'll skip the clay-court season. Federer confirmed the plan after falling 3-6, 6-3, 7-6 (7/4) to Australian qualifier Thanasi Kokkinakis in the second round of the Miami Masters. "I decided not to play the clay season," said Federer, who won his 20th Grand Slam tournament at the Australian Open in January, but will lose the world number one ranking to Rafael Nadal after his shock defeat. It's the second straight year that Federer will forego a clay-court campaign. Last year after winning back-to-back tournaments at Indian Wells and Miami he took a break, returning in mid-June at the grass-court tournament in Stuttgart. He lost his first match there but went on to win at Halle and Wimbledon.

Roger Federer says he'll skip French Open

On Sunday, tennis world number 1 Roger Federer ended his 17-match winning streak after losing the finals of Indian Wells to Juan Martin del Potro.

After that, he visited Chicago to help kick-off the countdown to September&rsquo;s Laver Cup.

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Good Morning Chicago! The countdown to the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LaverCup?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LaverCup</a> 2018 starts here! Follow the action live on Twitter and Periscope <a href="https://twitter.com/LaverCup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LaverCup</a>. ???? <a href="https://t.co/4OSJf3Cz8p">pic.twitter.com/4OSJf3Cz8p</a>
&mdash; Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer/status/975797609779679232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Swiss tennis star promoted the second Laver Cup, a team competition that debuted last year in Prague with an intention that the tournament will mark its popularity on U.S. soil also.

While interacting with media he said, "Obviously now that we&#39;re sitting in Chicago, being in Chicago for the first time, wonderful city by the way, I can&#39;t wait for September to come around and really kick off the second addition of the Laver Cup."

He further added, "The idea of the Laver Cup was always to honor the legends of the game"

He was joined by tennis legends Rod Laver and John McEnroe, along with young Australian star Nick Kyrgios.

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Delighted to receive a personalised Chicago <a href="https://twitter.com/NHLBlackhawks?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NHLBlackHawks</a> jersey from ice hockey legend Bobby Hull to commemorate the <a href="https://twitter.com/LaverCup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LaverCup</a> coming to this great city in 2018. <a href="https://t.co/H21gDjvvR8">pic.twitter.com/H21gDjvvR8</a>
&mdash; Rod Laver (@rodlaver) <a href="https://twitter.com/rodlaver/status/975602955465342976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Rod Laver, tennis legend said, "The Laver Cup last year was such a success and, you know, I thank Roger and all the players that competed. It was just unbelievable, the energy on the court with 14,000 people cheering."

Roger Federer&#39;s management team helped in launching the Laver Cup, which pits Team Europe against Team World. Four of the six players on each team are chosen on rankings after Wimbledon. The other two are captain&#39;s picks.

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Delighted to present <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RogerFederer</a> with my Dunlop Maxply inscribed: &lsquo;To the greatest, from Rod Laver &rsquo;62 &rsquo;69&rsquo; after his SF win today. Onto another final <a href="https://twitter.com/BNPPARIBASOPEN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BNPPARIBASOPEN</a> <a href="https://t.co/Zg7kH8bIu0">pic.twitter.com/Zg7kH8bIu0</a>
&mdash; Rod Laver (@rodlaver) <a href="https://twitter.com/rodlaver/status/975144976299409408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Laver Cup pits Team Europe against Team World in which four of the six players on each team are chosen on rankings after Wimbledon and the other two are captain's picks

On Sunday, tennis world number 1 Roger Federer ended his 17-match winning streak after losing the finals of Indian Wells to Juan Martin del Potro. After that, he visited Chicago to help kick-off the countdown to September’s Laver Cup. Good Morning Chicago! The countdown to the #LaverCup 2018 starts here! Follow the action live on Twitter and Periscope @LaverCup. ???? pic.twitter.com/4OSJf3Cz8p — Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) March 19, 2018 × Swiss tennis star promoted the second Laver Cup, a team competition that debuted last year in Prague with an intention that the tournament will mark its popularity on U.S. soil also. While interacting with media he said, "Obviously now that we're sitting in Chicago, being in Chicago for the first time, wonderful city by the way, I can't wait for September to come around and really kick off the second addition of the Laver Cup." He further added, "The idea of the Laver Cup was always to honor the legends of the game" He was joined by tennis legends Rod Laver and John McEnroe, along with young Australian star Nick Kyrgios. Delighted to receive a personalised Chicago @NHLBlackHawks jersey from ice hockey legend Bobby Hull to commemorate the @LaverCup coming to this great city in 2018. pic.twitter.com/H21gDjvvR8 — Rod Laver (@rodlaver) March 19, 2018 × Rod Laver, tennis legend said, "The Laver Cup last year was such a success and, you know, I thank Roger and all the players that competed. It was just unbelievable, the energy on the court with 14,000 people cheering." Roger Federer's management team helped in launching the Laver Cup, which pits Team Europe against Team World. Four of the six players on each team are chosen on rankings after Wimbledon. The other two are captain's picks. Delighted to present @RogerFederer with my Dunlop Maxply inscribed: ‘To the greatest, from Rod Laver ’62 ’69’ after his SF win today. Onto another final @BNPPARIBASOPEN pic.twitter.com/Zg7kH8bIu0 — Rod Laver (@rodlaver) March 17, 2018 ×

Roger Federer, Nick Kyrgios launch 2018 Laver Cup in Chicago

Roger Federer ends the most sparkling debate that has puzzled the tennis fraternity for quite some time&nbsp;that whether the colour of a tennis ball is yellow or green. On the Internet, it has been a big issue for the tennis spectators.

Some people say that the colour of tennis balls is yellow whereas, few believe that it is green. Are the tennis balls yellow or green?

The debate started with a twitter poll, where people started discussing that whether the colour of fuzzy tennis ball is green, yellow, chartreuse, lime green or fluorescent yellow.

Now, Roger Federer has settled things once for all saying, &ldquo;They&rsquo;re yellow!&rdquo;

Watch the video here:

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What colour is a tennis ball? ???? 
 
Roger Federer says they&rsquo;re yellow. ???? <a href="https://t.co/LV94V4lokg">pic.twitter.com/LV94V4lokg</a>
&mdash; Tim and Sid (@timandsid) <a href="https://twitter.com/timandsid/status/976149726864162819?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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If ATP world number one says it is yellow then it has to be.

Recently, the Swiss tennis star Roger Federer was asked by a fan that what is the colour of a tennis ball.

&ldquo;Hey Roger, are tennis balls green or yellow?&rdquo; a fan asked in a video that has gone viral.

With a bright smile, Roger replied immediately, &ldquo;They&rsquo;re yellow!&rdquo;

&nbsp;

Roger Federer has settled things once for all, revealing the actual colour of a tennis ball

Roger Federer ends the most sparkling debate that has puzzled the tennis fraternity for quite some time that whether the colour of a tennis ball is yellow or green. On the Internet, it has been a big issue for the tennis spectators. Some people say that the colour of tennis balls is yellow whereas, few believe that it is green. Are the tennis balls yellow or green? The debate started with a twitter poll, where people started discussing that whether the colour of fuzzy tennis ball is green, yellow, chartreuse, lime green or fluorescent yellow. Now, Roger Federer has settled things once for all saying, “They’re yellow!” Watch the video here: What colour is a tennis ball? ???? Roger Federer says they’re yellow. ???? pic.twitter.com/LV94V4lokg — Tim and Sid (@timandsid) March 20, 2018 × If ATP world number one says it is yellow then it has to be. Recently, the Swiss tennis star Roger Federer was asked by a fan that what is the colour of a tennis ball. “Hey Roger, are tennis balls green or yellow?” a fan asked in a video that has gone viral. With a bright smile, Roger replied immediately, “They’re yellow!”

Watch: Roger Federer ends 'Yellow or Green' debate, reveals colour of tennis ball

On Sunday, tennis world number 1 Roger Federer ended his 17-match winning streak after losing the finals of Indian Wells to Juan Martin del Potro.

After that, he visited Chicago to help kick-off the countdown to September’s Laver Cup.

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Welcoming <a href="https://twitter.com/NickKyrgios?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NickKyrgios</a> and the GOAT <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> to Chicago and the <a href="https://twitter.com/UnitedCenter?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UnitedCenter</a>, home of this year’s <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LaverCup?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LaverCup</a> ? <a href="https://t.co/IYc3gWYTJZ">pic.twitter.com/IYc3gWYTJZ</a>
— Scottie Pippen (@ScottiePippen) <a href="https://twitter.com/ScottiePippen/status/975876612217540609?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Swiss tennis star promoted the second Laver Cup, a team competition that debuted last year in Prague with an intention that the tournament will mark its popularity on U.S. soil also.

While interacting with media he said, "Obviously now that we're sitting in Chicago, being in Chicago for the first time, wonderful city by the way, I can't wait for September to come around and really kick off the second addition of the Laver Cup."

He further added, "The idea of the Laver Cup was always to honor the legends of the game"

He was joined by tennis legends Rod Laver and John McEnroe, along with young Australian star Nick Kyrgios.

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Good Morning Chicago! The countdown to the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LaverCup?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LaverCup</a> 2018 starts here! Follow the action live on Twitter and Periscope <a href="https://twitter.com/LaverCup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LaverCup</a>. ? <a href="https://t.co/4OSJf3Cz8p">pic.twitter.com/4OSJf3Cz8p</a>
— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer/status/975797609779679232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Rod Laver, tennis legend said, "The Laver Cup last year was such a success and, you know, I thank Roger and all the players that competed. It was just unbelievable, the energy on the court with 14,000 people cheering."

Roger Federer's management team helped in launching the Laver Cup, which pits Team Europe against Team World. Four of the six players on each team are chosen on rankings after Wimbledon. The other two are captain's picks.

On Sunday, tennis world number 1 Roger Federer ended his 17-match winning streak after losing the finals of Indian Wells to Juan Martin del Potro. After that, he visited Chicago to help kick-off the countdown to September’s Laver Cup. Welcoming @NickKyrgios and the GOAT @rogerfederer to Chicago and the @UnitedCenter, home of this year’s #LaverCup ? pic.twitter.com/IYc3gWYTJZ — Scottie Pippen (@ScottiePippen) March 19, 2018 × Swiss tennis star promoted the second Laver Cup, a team competition that debuted last year in Prague with an intention that the tournament will mark its popularity on U.S. soil also. While interacting with media he said, "Obviously now that we're sitting in Chicago, being in Chicago for the first time, wonderful city by the way, I can't wait for September to come around and really kick off the second addition of the Laver Cup." He further added, "The idea of the Laver Cup was always to honor the legends of the game" He was joined by tennis legends Rod Laver and John McEnroe, along with young Australian star Nick Kyrgios. Good Morning Chicago! The countdown to the #LaverCup 2018 starts here! Follow the action live on Twitter and Periscope @LaverCup. ? pic.twitter.com/4OSJf3Cz8p — Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) March 19, 2018 × Rod Laver, tennis legend said, "The Laver Cup last year was such a success and, you know, I thank Roger and all the players that competed. It was just unbelievable, the energy on the court with 14,000 people cheering." Roger Federer's management team helped in launching the Laver Cup, which pits Team Europe against Team World. Four of the six players on each team are chosen on rankings after Wimbledon. The other two are captain's picks.

Former US Open champion Juan Martin Del Potro stunned top-ranked Roger Federer 6-4, 6-7 (8/10), 7-6 (7/2) Sunday to win his first Indian Wells title and second consecutive ATP crown.

The 29-year-old from Argentina handed Federer his first match defeat of 2018 and extended his own win streak to 11 matches, including a title run earlier this month at Acapulco.

&quot;I&#39;m still shaking,&quot; Del Potro said. &quot;It&#39;s difficult to describe with words. It&#39;s like a dream.&quot;

Del Potro, nagged by wrist injuries throughout his career, survived three match points before claiming the championship in a third-set tie-breaker, ending a two hour, 42 minute marathon contest.

&quot;I cannot believe I won this tournament, beating Roger in a great final and this level of tennis. We played great tennis today,&quot; Del Potro said.

&quot;I just want to keep winning titles like this if I can.&quot;

Del Potro won the first five points of the deciding tie-breaker then closed it out when Swiss superstar Federer, who had won a career-best 17 straight matches to start the year, smacked a forehand long.

It was an emotional match for both players as each took turns questioning the chair umpire. Del Potro urged him to stop the pro-Federer crowd from making noise on his serve and an irritated Federer also had a couple of lively conversations with the umpire.

&quot;I don&#39;t remember half of it,&quot; said Federer. &quot;I was trying to pump myself up more, get energy for me. It had no effect on the outcome.&quot;&nbsp;

Del Potro was competing in his first Indian Wells final since 2013 when he lost to Spaniard Rafael Nadal.

It was Del Potro&#39;s seventh victory over Federer in 25 career meetings, one of those wins coming in the 2009 US Open final.

&quot;I always play good against him. I won a couple of finals and lost a couple of finals. In the end, I was lucky to win. We played great tennis today,&quot; Del Potro said.

World number eight Del Potro is back in the rankings top 10 after dropping to 1,045th before beginning his comeback from three left wrist surgeries in 2016.

&quot;I am excited to see what is next,&quot; he said. &quot;I am still surprising myself and I want to keep surprising the tennis tour,&quot; Del Potro said.

Federer blasted 10 aces but had five double faults and his serve was broken twice.

&#39;It should sting&#39;

He said it is going to take a little longer than normal to get over this one.

&quot;It should sting,&quot; Federer said. &quot;The question is how long? It is disappointing talking about a great match like this and losing.

&quot;You move on. There&#39;s no time to dwell over it. I see the positives at the end of the day.&quot;

Federer survived a match point in the second set tiebreaker to force the third.

&quot;It was a lot of chances at either end,&quot; he said. &quot;He should have maybe closed it first in the second set I believe. Even early in the second set I think he had break point chances.&nbsp;

&quot;But I was able to find my game and get out of that game.&quot;

In the 10th game of the third set, Federer returned the favour with three match points of his own but Del Potro timed his forehand shots perfectly. &nbsp;

&quot;It was disappointing,&quot; Federer said. &quot;Juan Martin was a bit better at the end. It was maybe a point here or there, maybe a shot, maybe a forehand, maybe a chip.&quot;

Federer, the oldest world number one in ATP history at 36, entered the final having dropped just one set, in a difficult semi-final test from Croatia&#39;s Borna Coric.&nbsp;

Federer&#39;s five Indian Wells titles included last year when he beat fellow Swiss Stan Wawrinka.

&nbsp;

Former US Open champion Juan Martin Del Potro defeated top-ranked Roger Federer 6-4, 6-7 (8/10), 7-6 (7/2) Sunday to win his first Indian Wells title and second consecutive ATP crown

Former US Open champion Juan Martin Del Potro stunned top-ranked Roger Federer 6-4, 6-7 (8/10), 7-6 (7/2) Sunday to win his first Indian Wells title and second consecutive ATP crown. The 29-year-old from Argentina handed Federer his first match defeat of 2018 and extended his own win streak to 11 matches, including a title run earlier this month at Acapulco. "I'm still shaking," Del Potro said. "It's difficult to describe with words. It's like a dream." Del Potro, nagged by wrist injuries throughout his career, survived three match points before claiming the championship in a third-set tie-breaker, ending a two hour, 42 minute marathon contest. "I cannot believe I won this tournament, beating Roger in a great final and this level of tennis. We played great tennis today," Del Potro said. "I just want to keep winning titles like this if I can." Del Potro won the first five points of the deciding tie-breaker then closed it out when Swiss superstar Federer, who had won a career-best 17 straight matches to start the year, smacked a forehand long. It was an emotional match for both players as each took turns questioning the chair umpire. Del Potro urged him to stop the pro-Federer crowd from making noise on his serve and an irritated Federer also had a couple of lively conversations with the umpire. "I don't remember half of it," said Federer. "I was trying to pump myself up more, get energy for me. It had no effect on the outcome." Del Potro was competing in his first Indian Wells final since 2013 when he lost to Spaniard Rafael Nadal. It was Del Potro's seventh victory over Federer in 25 career meetings, one of those wins coming in the 2009 US Open final. "I always play good against him. I won a couple of finals and lost a couple of finals. In the end, I was lucky to win. We played great tennis today," Del Potro said. World number eight Del Potro is back in the rankings top 10 after dropping to 1,045th before beginning his comeback from three left wrist surgeries in 2016. "I am excited to see what is next," he said. "I am still surprising myself and I want to keep surprising the tennis tour," Del Potro said. Federer blasted 10 aces but had five double faults and his serve was broken twice. 'It should sting' He said it is going to take a little longer than normal to get over this one. "It should sting," Federer said. "The question is how long? It is disappointing talking about a great match like this and losing. "You move on. There's no time to dwell over it. I see the positives at the end of the day." Federer survived a match point in the second set tiebreaker to force the third. "It was a lot of chances at either end," he said. "He should have maybe closed it first in the second set I believe. Even early in the second set I think he had break point chances. "But I was able to find my game and get out of that game." In the 10th game of the third set, Federer returned the favour with three match points of his own but Del Potro timed his forehand shots perfectly. "It was disappointing," Federer said. "Juan Martin was a bit better at the end. It was maybe a point here or there, maybe a shot, maybe a forehand, maybe a chip." Federer, the oldest world number one in ATP history at 36, entered the final having dropped just one set, in a difficult semi-final test from Croatia's Borna Coric. Federer's five Indian Wells titles included last year when he beat fellow Swiss Stan Wawrinka.

Del Potro stuns Roger Federer to win Indian Wells title

World No. 1 Roger Federer extended his season win streak to 17 matches, booking his spot in the Indian Wells Masters final by rallying past Borna Coric 5-7, 6-4, 6-4 on Saturday.

The Swiss superstar survived a stern test from world number 49 Coric but managed to hold on for a 17-0 record this year.

He surpassed his prior career-best calendar year start in 2006 when he opened with 16 wins.

&quot;It took a while to get the record,&quot; Federer said.&nbsp;

&quot;But I&#39;m happy. It was just a fighting match, It didn&#39;t come easy, so I had to go get it. I got a little bit lucky. I hung tough and put a lot of effort into it to get the record,&quot; he added.

Federer said it&#39;s time to focus on finals now.&nbsp;

&quot;The focus has to be the finals right now. But it&#39;s nice to get off to a good start this year, and I hope I can play well again tomorrow.&quot;

The defending champion will be aiming for a record sixth Indian Wells title when he squares off against world number eight Juan Martin Del Potro in Sunday&#39;s championship match.

The 36-year-old Federer said he had to draw on every ounce of experience and mental toughness to pull out the match.

&quot;Margins are slim at the top of the game,&quot; he said. &quot;And I have been there so many times. You just hope to take the right decisions along the way, and then it ends up falling your way.&quot;

&quot;But for that you need to have a very positive mindset. You need to be match-tough, you need to be confident, have experience, and I think I have a bit of all of that right now.&quot;

Federer clinched the match when Coric hit a shot wide. The ball was called out but Coric challenged and after the video review the original call was confirmed.

The Swiss superstar survived a stern test from world number 49 Coric

World No. 1 Roger Federer extended his season win streak to 17 matches, booking his spot in the Indian Wells Masters final by rallying past Borna Coric 5-7, 6-4, 6-4 on Saturday. The Swiss superstar survived a stern test from world number 49 Coric but managed to hold on for a 17-0 record this year. He surpassed his prior career-best calendar year start in 2006 when he opened with 16 wins. "It took a while to get the record," Federer said. "But I'm happy. It was just a fighting match, It didn't come easy, so I had to go get it. I got a little bit lucky. I hung tough and put a lot of effort into it to get the record," he added. Federer said it's time to focus on finals now. "The focus has to be the finals right now. But it's nice to get off to a good start this year, and I hope I can play well again tomorrow." The defending champion will be aiming for a record sixth Indian Wells title when he squares off against world number eight Juan Martin Del Potro in Sunday's championship match. The 36-year-old Federer said he had to draw on every ounce of experience and mental toughness to pull out the match. "Margins are slim at the top of the game," he said. "And I have been there so many times. You just hope to take the right decisions along the way, and then it ends up falling your way." "But for that you need to have a very positive mindset. You need to be match-tough, you need to be confident, have experience, and I think I have a bit of all of that right now." Federer clinched the match when Coric hit a shot wide. The ball was called out but Coric challenged and after the video review the original call was confirmed.

Indian Wells Masters: Roger Federer to face Del Potro in final

Defending champ Roger Federer equalled his best start to a season with a 7-5, 6-1 win over Chung Hyeon to book his spot in the semi-finals of the Indian Wells Masters on Thursday.

Federer, who is seeking a record sixth Indian Wells title, extended his win streak to 16 straight matches, matching the start he had to the 2006 ATP calendar season.

In the semi-finals, Federer will face Croatian Borna Coric who outlasted seventh seeded Kevin Anderson 2-6, 6-4, 7-6 (7/3).

Federer won 70 percent of his first serve points, had just one double fault and broke Chung`s serve four times in the one hour, 23 minute main stadium match.

He clinched the victory on the second match point when he blasted his 12th and final ace of the contest.

Earlier this year he defended his title at the Australian Open, picking up his 20th Grand Slam win.&nbsp;

Last month he claimed his 97th singles title with a victory in Rotterdam which helped him regain the world number one ranking and become the oldest No. 1 player in ATP history.&nbsp;

And this victory guarantees he will hold onto the top spot after Indian Wells.

This was the first match between Federer and Chung since the semi-finals of the Aussie Open when the Swiss was leading 6-1, 5-2 and Chung was forced to retire with a foot blister.&nbsp;

The bespectacled Chung, appearing in his fifth quarter-final in six tournaments this year, dropped to 15-6 on the season.

He`s set to surpass Japan`s Kei Nishikori as the top Asian player in the ATP rankings.

Federer said he plans to get ready for Coric the same way he prepared for Chung.

&quot;He plays similar to Chung,&quot; Federer said. &quot;A great mover and has got a world of confidence.

&quot;I got to play aggressive tennis as much as I can. Pretty simple, not always easy to do.&quot;

Federer extended his win streak to 16 straight matches

Defending champ Roger Federer equalled his best start to a season with a 7-5, 6-1 win over Chung Hyeon to book his spot in the semi-finals of the Indian Wells Masters on Thursday. Federer, who is seeking a record sixth Indian Wells title, extended his win streak to 16 straight matches, matching the start he had to the 2006 ATP calendar season. In the semi-finals, Federer will face Croatian Borna Coric who outlasted seventh seeded Kevin Anderson 2-6, 6-4, 7-6 (7/3). Federer won 70 percent of his first serve points, had just one double fault and broke Chung`s serve four times in the one hour, 23 minute main stadium match. He clinched the victory on the second match point when he blasted his 12th and final ace of the contest. Earlier this year he defended his title at the Australian Open, picking up his 20th Grand Slam win. Last month he claimed his 97th singles title with a victory in Rotterdam which helped him regain the world number one ranking and become the oldest No. 1 player in ATP history. And this victory guarantees he will hold onto the top spot after Indian Wells. This was the first match between Federer and Chung since the semi-finals of the Aussie Open when the Swiss was leading 6-1, 5-2 and Chung was forced to retire with a foot blister. The bespectacled Chung, appearing in his fifth quarter-final in six tournaments this year, dropped to 15-6 on the season. He`s set to surpass Japan`s Kei Nishikori as the top Asian player in the ATP rankings. Federer said he plans to get ready for Coric the same way he prepared for Chung. "He plays similar to Chung," Federer said. "A great mover and has got a world of confidence. "I got to play aggressive tennis as much as I can. Pretty simple, not always easy to do."

Roger Federer chases Chung to reach semi-finals

World No. 1 Roger Federer&#39;s remarkable run continued as he booked his quarter-final berth in the ATP Indian Wells Masters with a 7-5, 6-4 win over Jeremy Chardy on Wednesday.

The 36-year-old Federer, who won his 20th Grand Slam when he captured the Australian Open in January, is off to one of his strongest career starts and is now 15-0 in 2018.&nbsp;

It is his best beginning to the season since 2006 when he started 16-0 and won 33 of his first 34 matches.

&quot;It has been great. It is a totally different year, and so many years after that,&quot; he said.

&quot;For so many years I have felt good actually in Australia already.

&quot;I don&#39;t know if it&#39;s Australia per se or, taking the benefits from the hard work I put into the new season.&quot;

Federer, who also won at Rotterdam in February, is gunning for a record sixth Indian Wells title.&nbsp;

&quot;Yeah, and then also Rotterdam was great. I was very happy that I was able to win the tournament there, not just get to the semis and get world No. 1.&nbsp;

&quot;And here now I&#39;m relieved that I was able to win three matches already. Because in a big, tough draw like here at Indian Wells, you&#39;re never quite sure what to expect.

&quot;So I&#39;m just happy I&#39;m on a good run.&quot;

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Point of the day! 
 
Thanks for the entertainment <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/jimchardy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jimchardy</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BNPPO18?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BNPPO18</a> <a href="https://t.co/pYF1SI1SL8">pic.twitter.com/pYF1SI1SL8</a>
&mdash; Tennis TV (@TennisTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/TennisTV/status/974081032629624832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The defending Indian Wells champion Federer put on a serving clinic against Chardy as he hit two aces and won 100 percent of his first serve points.

He dropped just three serve points overall with those coming on his second serve.

Federer advances to the quarter-finals where he will face South Korea&#39;s Chung Hyeon who defeated 30th-seeded Pablo Cuevas 6-1, 6-3 earlier on Wednesday.

Federer only needed to break Chardy once in each set to get the win in 82 minutes.&nbsp;

The first break of serve came in the 11th game of the opening set to take a 6-5 lead.&nbsp;

In the second set he broke Chardy in the ninth game to lead 5-4. Each time he got the break he then served for the set.

Federer clinched the victory on the first match point when Chardy pounded a forehand into the net.

Chardy hit four aces but made 46 unforced errors compared to just 29 for Federer.

Federer is now 4-1 overall against Chardy, having beaten the Frenchman the last two times they played.

Federer picked up seven titles in 2017, comprising the Australian Open, Halle, Wimbledon, Miami, Shanghai, Basel and Indian Wells.

Federer will face the 21-year-old Chung for the second time this year.&nbsp;

Chung made a Grand Slam breakthrough when he reached the semi-finals of the Australian Open in January but had to retire in his match with Federer because of a foot blister.

&quot;He was actually struggling going into the match,&quot; Federer said. &quot;Seeing the blister after, that wasn&#39;t very nice. I can just imagine how much pain there is to it.

&quot;You kind of want to go out and give it a shot, but then you&#39;re like, probably shouldn&#39;t. So I felt for him.&quot;

&nbsp;

Roger Federer booked his quarter-final berth in the ATP Indian Wells Masters with a 7-5, 6-4 win over Jeremy Chardy

World No. 1 Roger Federer's remarkable run continued as he booked his quarter-final berth in the ATP Indian Wells Masters with a 7-5, 6-4 win over Jeremy Chardy on Wednesday. The 36-year-old Federer, who won his 20th Grand Slam when he captured the Australian Open in January, is off to one of his strongest career starts and is now 15-0 in 2018. It is his best beginning to the season since 2006 when he started 16-0 and won 33 of his first 34 matches. "It has been great. It is a totally different year, and so many years after that," he said. "For so many years I have felt good actually in Australia already. "I don't know if it's Australia per se or, taking the benefits from the hard work I put into the new season." Federer, who also won at Rotterdam in February, is gunning for a record sixth Indian Wells title. "Yeah, and then also Rotterdam was great. I was very happy that I was able to win the tournament there, not just get to the semis and get world No. 1. "And here now I'm relieved that I was able to win three matches already. Because in a big, tough draw like here at Indian Wells, you're never quite sure what to expect. "So I'm just happy I'm on a good run." Point of the day! Thanks for the entertainment @rogerfederer & @jimchardy.#BNPPO18 pic.twitter.com/pYF1SI1SL8 — Tennis TV (@TennisTV) March 15, 2018 × The defending Indian Wells champion Federer put on a serving clinic against Chardy as he hit two aces and won 100 percent of his first serve points. He dropped just three serve points overall with those coming on his second serve. Federer advances to the quarter-finals where he will face South Korea's Chung Hyeon who defeated 30th-seeded Pablo Cuevas 6-1, 6-3 earlier on Wednesday. Federer only needed to break Chardy once in each set to get the win in 82 minutes. The first break of serve came in the 11th game of the opening set to take a 6-5 lead. In the second set he broke Chardy in the ninth game to lead 5-4. Each time he got the break he then served for the set. Federer clinched the victory on the first match point when Chardy pounded a forehand into the net. Chardy hit four aces but made 46 unforced errors compared to just 29 for Federer. Federer is now 4-1 overall against Chardy, having beaten the Frenchman the last two times they played. Federer picked up seven titles in 2017, comprising the Australian Open, Halle, Wimbledon, Miami, Shanghai, Basel and Indian Wells. Federer will face the 21-year-old Chung for the second time this year. Chung made a Grand Slam breakthrough when he reached the semi-finals of the Australian Open in January but had to retire in his match with Federer because of a foot blister. "He was actually struggling going into the match," Federer said. "Seeing the blister after, that wasn't very nice. I can just imagine how much pain there is to it. "You kind of want to go out and give it a shot, but then you're like, probably shouldn't. So I felt for him."

Roger Federer cruises past Jeremy Chardy to enter quarter-final at Indian Wells

World number one Roger Federer stepped up his bid for a sixth Indian Wells Masters title with a 6-2, 6-1 demolition of Filip Krajinovic on Monday.

The 36-year-old marvel continues to defy the ageing process as he needed just 58 minutes to overpower the Serb with a brilliant display of Swiss timing.

&quot;I was feeling like he was not loving my slice and I was also mixing in dropshots,&quot; said Federer who extended his perfect record this season to 14-0.

&quot;I really I was able to mix up my game nicely, make it difficult for him.&nbsp;

&quot;At the same time, have fun with my game, play a variation, but for the most part try to stay on the offensive.&quot;

Federer blasted six aces had one double fault and won 89 percent of his first serve points, losing just three points on his serve the entire match.

&quot;I actually was explosive out there today and I felt good,&quot; he said. &quot;So I&#39;m very happy how things are turning out to be.&quot;

After handing back an early break to allow Krajinovic to draw level at two-all, Federer moved into cruise control.

At one point he won 17 straight points en route to taking a 6-2, 3-0 lead, winning 10 of the final 11 games in the match.

Federer, who is the defending champion and trying to win a record sixth title in the California desert, was on the centre stadium for the third day in a row.&nbsp;

His opening match on Saturday night against Federico Delbonis carried over into Sunday afternoon after heavy rains forced a postponement of several night matches.

He said playing matches three days in a row doesn&#39;t faze him.

&quot;You&#39;ve got to be ready for it. It&#39;s what tennis players do. We wait, we play, we wait again, we play again.

&quot;In Rotterdam I played five matches in a row,&quot; he said. &quot;Back in the day, I used to play six matches in a row.&nbsp;

&quot;At the Masters 1000s, when the format was different, it was the best-of-five-set finals in the finals. Playing three matches in a row. I think I&#39;m okay.&quot;

Federer has already won two titles in 2018, claiming his 20th Grand Slam crown by winning the Australian Open in January. The other victory came in Rotterdam.

In the next round he faces Jeremy Chardy who beat fellow Frenchman Adrian Mannarino 7-5, 4-6, 6-1.

In other men&#39;s matches, American Taylor Fritz defeated Fernando Verdasco, of Spain, 4-6, 6-2, 7-6 (7/1), Croatia&#39;s Borna Coric breezed past Roberto Bautista 6-1, 6-3 and Pablo Carreno-Busta, of Spain, stopped Russian Daniil Medvedev 6-1, 7-5.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Federer blasted six aces had one double fault and won 89 percent of his first serve points, losing just three points on his serve the entire match

World number one Roger Federer stepped up his bid for a sixth Indian Wells Masters title with a 6-2, 6-1 demolition of Filip Krajinovic on Monday. The 36-year-old marvel continues to defy the ageing process as he needed just 58 minutes to overpower the Serb with a brilliant display of Swiss timing. "I was feeling like he was not loving my slice and I was also mixing in dropshots," said Federer who extended his perfect record this season to 14-0. "I really I was able to mix up my game nicely, make it difficult for him. "At the same time, have fun with my game, play a variation, but for the most part try to stay on the offensive." Federer blasted six aces had one double fault and won 89 percent of his first serve points, losing just three points on his serve the entire match. "I actually was explosive out there today and I felt good," he said. "So I'm very happy how things are turning out to be." After handing back an early break to allow Krajinovic to draw level at two-all, Federer moved into cruise control. At one point he won 17 straight points en route to taking a 6-2, 3-0 lead, winning 10 of the final 11 games in the match. Federer, who is the defending champion and trying to win a record sixth title in the California desert, was on the centre stadium for the third day in a row. His opening match on Saturday night against Federico Delbonis carried over into Sunday afternoon after heavy rains forced a postponement of several night matches. He said playing matches three days in a row doesn't faze him. "You've got to be ready for it. It's what tennis players do. We wait, we play, we wait again, we play again. "In Rotterdam I played five matches in a row," he said. "Back in the day, I used to play six matches in a row. "At the Masters 1000s, when the format was different, it was the best-of-five-set finals in the finals. Playing three matches in a row. I think I'm okay." Federer has already won two titles in 2018, claiming his 20th Grand Slam crown by winning the Australian Open in January. The other victory came in Rotterdam. In the next round he faces Jeremy Chardy who beat fellow Frenchman Adrian Mannarino 7-5, 4-6, 6-1. In other men's matches, American Taylor Fritz defeated Fernando Verdasco, of Spain, 4-6, 6-2, 7-6 (7/1), Croatia's Borna Coric breezed past Roberto Bautista 6-1, 6-3 and Pablo Carreno-Busta, of Spain, stopped Russian Daniil Medvedev 6-1, 7-5.

Roger Federer beats Krajinovic to enter fourth round of Indian Wells

World number one Roger Federer picked up where he left off, winning the four games he needed to defeat Federico Delbonis on Sunday after their match was interrupted the night before by rain.

Federer returned to stadium court on Sunday afternoon and needed an hour to finish off his second round victory 6-3, 7-6 (8/6).

His title defence got off to a soggy start Saturday night when play was suspended because of rain showers with Federer up a set and tied 2-2 in the second.

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Rain, rain go away! Persistent ☔️????️ halted <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a>&#39;s opener <a href="https://twitter.com/BNPPARIBASOPEN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BNPPARIBASOPEN</a>. Play will resume on Sunday. 
 
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The storm clouds rolled in just before the start of their match on Saturday and after a short delay to start the first set they managed to play until the heavy rains came in the second. After another 90-minute delay organizers suspended play for the night.

Federer is making his 17th appearance in the California desert and is assured of remaining world number one if he makes it to the semi-finals in Indian Wells.

He extended his 2018 win streak to 13 matches and has only dropped three sets from 34 played this year.

Federer will face 25th-seed Filip Krajinovic in the third round.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Roger Federer defeats Federico Delbonis 6-3, 7-6 will face 25th-seed Filip Krajinovic in the third round

World number one Roger Federer picked up where he left off, winning the four games he needed to defeat Federico Delbonis on Sunday after their match was interrupted the night before by rain. Federer returned to stadium court on Sunday afternoon and needed an hour to finish off his second round victory 6-3, 7-6 (8/6). His title defence got off to a soggy start Saturday night when play was suspended because of rain showers with Federer up a set and tied 2-2 in the second. Rain, rain go away! Persistent ☔️????️ halted @rogerfederer's opener @BNPPARIBASOPEN. Play will resume on Sunday. ➡️➡️ https://t.co/ULs3zO6FtR pic.twitter.com/jhVOK9ThfF — ATP World Tour (@ATPWorldTour) March 11, 2018 × The storm clouds rolled in just before the start of their match on Saturday and after a short delay to start the first set they managed to play until the heavy rains came in the second. After another 90-minute delay organizers suspended play for the night. Federer is making his 17th appearance in the California desert and is assured of remaining world number one if he makes it to the semi-finals in Indian Wells. He extended his 2018 win streak to 13 matches and has only dropped three sets from 34 played this year. Federer will face 25th-seed Filip Krajinovic in the third round.

Roger Federer eases past Federico Delbonis in rain-hit match

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