<p>It was end of an era in the world of tennis after 22-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal announced his retirement from the sport on Thursday (Oct 10). The upcoming Davis Cup will be the Spaniard’s last tournament before he hangs his racket. After he decided to retire, legends like Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic paid tribute to the legend on social media.</p>

<h2><strong>Social media reacts</strong></h2>

<p>"What a career, Rafa! I always hoped this day would never come," 20-time Grand Slam winner Federer, who retired two years ago, said in a post on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Thank you for the unforgettable memories and all your incredible achievements in the game we love. It's been an absolute honor!"</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Rafael Nadal has announced his retirement 🥹<br />
<br />
His last event will be next month's <a href="https://twitter.com/DavisCupFinals?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DavisCupFinals</a>. <a href="https://t.co/vFUw2I7SwF">pic.twitter.com/vFUw2I7SwF</a></p>
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) <a href="https://twitter.com/usopen/status/1844346483153531071?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Legendary memories. You are so loved around the world and here with us in Australia. Grateful for all the unforgettable moments 💙 Gracias, Rafa. For everything! <a href="https://t.co/8Q59mLWPbk">pic.twitter.com/8Q59mLWPbk</a></p>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1844331115240419757?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">King 🧡<a href="https://t.co/2uTsqFZpyt">pic.twitter.com/2uTsqFZpyt</a></p>
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/status/1844316261666390431?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Forever a champion. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Wimbledon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Wimbledon</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> <a href="https://t.co/pe1XpcWycx">pic.twitter.com/pe1XpcWycx</a></p>
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) <a href="https://twitter.com/Wimbledon/status/1844317019719729660?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Damn. I’ve had nightmares that have woke me up about Rafa ☹️ I’m gonna miss them. This was someone that I used to prepare for ☹️ he was a motivation - I guess an inspiration. Fuck - it’s true- people do bring the best out of you. You were one of those people 🙏🏽 damn…..</p>
— Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) <a href="https://twitter.com/NickKyrgios/status/1844348651315036493?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="es">Gracias Rafa, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RafaSiempre?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RafaSiempre</a> ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/m7NXorFaNx">pic.twitter.com/m7NXorFaNx</a></p>
— ATP Tour (@atptour) <a href="https://twitter.com/atptour/status/1844316260454236551?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="und">Mil gracias a todos<br />
Many thanks to all<br />
Merci beaucoup à tous<br />
Grazie mille à tutti<br />
谢谢大家<br />
شكرا لكم جميعا<br />
תודה לכולכם<br />
Obrigado a todos<br />
Vielen Dank euch allen<br />
Tack alla<br />
Хвала свима<br />
Gràcies a tots <a href="https://t.co/7yPRs7QrOi">pic.twitter.com/7yPRs7QrOi</a></p>
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal/status/1844308861492318594?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Rafael Nadal was the youngest person to complete the career grand slam.<br />
<br />
He had won the French Open, Australian Open, Wimbledon and the US Open by the time he was 24 years and 101 days old.<br />
<br />
🐐 <a href="https://t.co/MpSXhlrd1n">pic.twitter.com/MpSXhlrd1n</a></p>
— Guinness World Records (@GWR) <a href="https://twitter.com/GWR/status/1844342488234164533?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> for everything you have given to the sport. To have the chance to spend a few weeks training with you a few years ago is something I’ll never forget. To watch you work as an athlete but also get to know you as a person off the court was even more special.… <a href="https://t.co/Obyrk5V5mh">pic.twitter.com/Obyrk5V5mh</a></p>
— Jannik Sinner (@janniksin) <a href="https://twitter.com/janniksin/status/1844361272973734116?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="und">❤️💛<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FIFAWorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FIFAWorldCup</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> <a href="https://t.co/bWUJXs2JvU">pic.twitter.com/bWUJXs2JvU</a></p>
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/FIFAWorldCup/status/1844323915126247736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


It was end of an era in the world of tennis after 22-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal announced his retirement from the sport on Thursday (Oct 10). The upcoming Davis Cup will be the Spaniard’s last tournament before he hangs his racket.

It was end of an era in the world of tennis after 22-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal announced his retirement from the sport on Thursday (Oct 10). The upcoming Davis Cup will be the Spaniard’s last tournament before he hangs his racket. After he decided to retire, legends like Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic paid tribute to the legend on social media. Social media reacts "What a career, Rafa! I always hoped this day would never come," 20-time Grand Slam winner Federer, who retired two years ago, said in a post on social media. "Thank you for the unforgettable memories and all your incredible achievements in the game we love. It's been an absolute honor!" Rafael Nadal has announced his retirement 🥹 His last event will be next month's @DavisCupFinals. pic.twitter.com/vFUw2I7SwF — US Open Tennis (@usopen) October 10, 2024 × Legendary memories. You are so loved around the world and here with us in Australia. Grateful for all the unforgettable moments 💙 Gracias, Rafa. For everything! pic.twitter.com/8Q59mLWPbk — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) October 10, 2024 × King 🧡pic.twitter.com/2uTsqFZpyt — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) October 10, 2024 × Forever a champion. #Wimbledon | @RafaelNadal pic.twitter.com/pe1XpcWycx — Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) October 10, 2024 × Damn. I’ve had nightmares that have woke me up about Rafa ☹️ I’m gonna miss them. This was someone that I used to prepare for ☹️ he was a motivation - I guess an inspiration. Fuck - it’s true- people do bring the best out of you. You were one of those people 🙏🏽 damn….. — Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) October 10, 2024 × Gracias Rafa, #RafaSiempre ❤️ pic.twitter.com/m7NXorFaNx — ATP Tour (@atptour) October 10, 2024 × Mil gracias a todos Many thanks to all Merci beaucoup à tous Grazie mille à tutti 谢谢大家 شكرا لكم جميعا תודה לכולכם Obrigado a todos Vielen Dank euch allen Tack alla Хвала свима Gràcies a tots pic.twitter.com/7yPRs7QrOi — Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) October 10, 2024 × Rafael Nadal was the youngest person to complete the career grand slam. He had won the French Open, Australian Open, Wimbledon and the US Open by the time he was 24 years and 101 days old. 🐐 pic.twitter.com/MpSXhlrd1n — Guinness World Records (@GWR) October 10, 2024 × Thank you @RafaelNadal for everything you have given to the sport. To have the chance to spend a few weeks training with you a few years ago is something I’ll never forget. To watch you work as an athlete but also get to know you as a person off the court was even more special.… pic.twitter.com/Obyrk5V5mh — Jannik Sinner (@janniksin) October 10, 2024 × ❤️💛#FIFAWorldCup | @RafaelNadal pic.twitter.com/bWUJXs2JvU — FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) October 10, 2024 ×

Rafael Nadal Retires: Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic pay tribute to King of Clay

<p>Andy Murray suffered a first-round exit in the men's doubles in Wimbledon 2024 on Thursday (July 4), with his brother Jamie and him being defeated 7-6 (8/6), 6-4 by Australia's Rinky Hijikata and John Peers. Having already withdrawn from the men's singles, citing injury concerns, the former world number one is now also out of the doubles but will still&nbsp;take part in the mixed doubles, paired with Emma Raducanu. After his loss at the doubles, he was given&nbsp;a standing ovation at the Centre Court by fans.</p>

<p><strong>Here is the video:</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Not a dry eye on Centre Court.<br />
<br />
They love you, <a href="https://twitter.com/andy_murray?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@andy_murray</a> 💚 <a href="https://t.co/dgas9hPEHx">pic.twitter.com/dgas9hPEHx</a></p>
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) <a href="https://twitter.com/Wimbledon/status/1808953449171562692?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Even Novak Djokovic, who won his second-round match with ease after Murray's encounter, was present at the venue and applauded his competitor.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'I would love to keep playing but I can’t'</strong></h2>

<p>Murray was teary-eyed after the response he got from the crowd. He told after the loss, "Look it’s hard because I would love to keep playing but I can’t. Physically it is too tough now, all of the injuries, they have added up and they haven’t been insignificant."</p>

<p>The two-time Wimbledon winner further opined, "I want to play forever, I love the sport and it’s given me so much. It’s taught me loads of lessons over the years I can use for the rest of my life. I don’t want to stop so it is hard."</p>

<p>He added, "It was obviously really special to play with Jamie. We never got the chance to do it before (at Wimbledon). It was a bit of a race to get out here. Physically, it wasn’t easy but I am glad we did it."</p>

<p>Also read:&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>FITTING TRIBUTE FROM FEDERER, NADAL, SERENA</strong></h2>

<p>Murray also received a video tribute from his competitors and greats of the game such as Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Serena Williams. <strong>Here is the video -&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">You made us dream.<br />
You made us believe.<br />
You made us cry.<br />
And you made us proud. <a href="https://t.co/yNsnkEsEhc">pic.twitter.com/yNsnkEsEhc</a></p>
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) <a href="https://twitter.com/Wimbledon/status/1808952151172895148?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>After this, Murray will feature in the mixed doubles with Raducanu before he retires at the forthcoming Paris Olympics.</p>


Andy Murray suffered a first-round exit in the men's doubles in Wimbledon 2024 on Thursday (July 4), with his brother Jamie and him being defeated 7-6 (8/6), 6-4 by Australia's Rinky Hijikata and John Peers.

Andy Murray suffered a first-round exit in the men's doubles in Wimbledon 2024 on Thursday (July 4), with his brother Jamie and him being defeated 7-6 (8/6), 6-4 by Australia's Rinky Hijikata and John Peers. Having already withdrawn from the men's singles, citing injury concerns, the former world number one is now also out of the doubles but will still take part in the mixed doubles, paired with Emma Raducanu. After his loss at the doubles, he was given a standing ovation at the Centre Court by fans. Here is the video: Not a dry eye on Centre Court. They love you, @andy_murray 💚 pic.twitter.com/dgas9hPEHx — Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 4, 2024 × Even Novak Djokovic, who won his second-round match with ease after Murray's encounter, was present at the venue and applauded his competitor. 'I would love to keep playing but I can’t' Murray was teary-eyed after the response he got from the crowd. He told after the loss, "Look it’s hard because I would love to keep playing but I can’t. Physically it is too tough now, all of the injuries, they have added up and they haven’t been insignificant." The two-time Wimbledon winner further opined, "I want to play forever, I love the sport and it’s given me so much. It’s taught me loads of lessons over the years I can use for the rest of my life. I don’t want to stop so it is hard." He added, "It was obviously really special to play with Jamie. We never got the chance to do it before (at Wimbledon). It was a bit of a race to get out here. Physically, it wasn’t easy but I am glad we did it." Also read: FITTING TRIBUTE FROM FEDERER, NADAL, SERENA Murray also received a video tribute from his competitors and greats of the game such as Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Serena Williams. Here is the video - You made us dream. You made us believe. You made us cry. And you made us proud. pic.twitter.com/yNsnkEsEhc — Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 4, 2024 × After this, Murray will feature in the mixed doubles with Raducanu before he retires at the forthcoming Paris Olympics.

WATCH: Murray gets teary eyed as long farewell begins with doubles loss; Federer, Nadal pay fitting tribute

<p>Rafael Nadal will play in the Laver Cup later this year, organisers said on Monday (Apr 22), in what could be the Spaniard's last tournament before his retirement from the sport.</p>

<p>The 37-year-old Nadal, who returned to action after a months-long layoff at last week's Barcelona Open, has struggled with injuries for the last two years and has said he expects to retire after the 2024 season.</p>

<p>This will be the 22-time Grand Slam champion's fourth appearance at the three-day team tournament, which pits six top men's players from Europe against six of their counterparts from the rest of the world.</p>

<p>Nadal last played at the Laver Cup in 2022, when he teamed up with his rival Roger Federer, which was the Swiss great's last match.</p>

<p>"I have some really special memories from my Laver Cup experiences, including all the emotions from London two years ago playing alongside Roger for the last time," Nadal said in a statement.</p>

<p>"At this stage in my career, I really want to go out there and make the most of every opportunity I am given.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadals-barcelona-open-campaign-ends-early-with-straight-sets-loss-to-alex-de-minaur-712465"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Rafael Nadal's Barcelona Open campaign ends early with straight sets loss to Alex De Minaur</strong></a></p>

<p>"Teaming up is always an incredible experience and I have always enjoyed it, the competition is different and exciting. I'm looking forward to going to Berlin and helping Team Europe win back the Laver Cup."</p>

<p>Top-10 players Carlos Alcaraz, Daniil Medvedev and Alexander Zverev are among the other players that will be part of Team Europe in this year's competition, which will be held in Berlin from Sept. 20-22.</p>

<p>"Rafa is an absolute legend in our sport, a true champion in every sense of the word," Team Europe captain Bjorn Borg said.</p>

<p>"It's my last year as captain. Having him on Team Europe this year was a goal of mine and I'm thrilled he has accepted my invitation and will be with us in Berlin."</p>


Rafael Nadal will play in the Laver Cup later this year, organisers said on Monday (Apr 22), in what could be the Spaniard's last tournament before his retirement from the sport.

Rafael Nadal will play in the Laver Cup later this year, organisers said on Monday (Apr 22), in what could be the Spaniard's last tournament before his retirement from the sport. The 37-year-old Nadal, who returned to action after a months-long layoff at last week's Barcelona Open, has struggled with injuries for the last two years and has said he expects to retire after the 2024 season. This will be the 22-time Grand Slam champion's fourth appearance at the three-day team tournament, which pits six top men's players from Europe against six of their counterparts from the rest of the world. Nadal last played at the Laver Cup in 2022, when he teamed up with his rival Roger Federer, which was the Swiss great's last match. "I have some really special memories from my Laver Cup experiences, including all the emotions from London two years ago playing alongside Roger for the last time," Nadal said in a statement. "At this stage in my career, I really want to go out there and make the most of every opportunity I am given. Also read | Rafael Nadal's Barcelona Open campaign ends early with straight sets loss to Alex De Minaur "Teaming up is always an incredible experience and I have always enjoyed it, the competition is different and exciting. I'm looking forward to going to Berlin and helping Team Europe win back the Laver Cup." Top-10 players Carlos Alcaraz, Daniil Medvedev and Alexander Zverev are among the other players that will be part of Team Europe in this year's competition, which will be held in Berlin from Sept. 20-22. "Rafa is an absolute legend in our sport, a true champion in every sense of the word," Team Europe captain Bjorn Borg said. "It's my last year as captain. Having him on Team Europe this year was a goal of mine and I'm thrilled he has accepted my invitation and will be with us in Berlin."

Rafael Nadal to turn up for Team Europe at Laver Cup later this year

<p>Olympic and world champion Neeraj Chopra has revealed that legendary tennis player&nbsp;Roger Federer is a big fan of Indian food. Chopra met Federer in January, earlier this year and the duo&nbsp;discussed all things sports, life and food habits.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking at the virtual media briefing, Chopra said he was awestruck meeting Federer and asked him what was the secret of maintaining longevity at the top.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Yes, I met him in January this year. It felt good meeting him. It's great to meet a top-level player from any sport. So it felt good. First of all, as a person, I felt positive vibes from him. Secondly, our chat. I only had one question in mind. I wanted to ask him about his lengthy career and how he was able to stay on top of the sport for a long time. I wanted to ask how he was able to maintain that."</p>

<p>"So these are things that I also think about. So that was it. The rest were normal talks. I asked if he had visited India and if he liked Indian food. So he told me, 'Indian food is in my top 5.' So it felt good," added Neeraj.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/exclusive-interview-with-neeraj-chopra-653947"><strong>Watch | Exclusive interview with Neeraj Chopra</strong></a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/exclusive-interview-with-neeraj-chopra-653947/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The two superstars met in Zurich and had a mutual admiration for each other. Federer particularly praised Chopra for achieving so much in his relatively short career.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I am amazed by how much Neeraj has achieved personally and for his country through his grit and determination. It’s been great to meet him here in Zurich,” the 20-time Grand Slam winner said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-to-retain-olympics-gold-will-be-biggest-aim-in-paris-neeraj-chopra-ahead-of-big-2024-challenge-653520"><strong>Also read | To retain Olympics gold will be biggest aim in Paris - Neeraj Chopra ahead of big 2024 challenge</strong></a></p>

<p>After the meeting. Federer presented Chopra with an autographed tennis racquet while the Indian javelin star handed the former World No 1 a signed India jersey from the Asian Games.</p>

<h2><strong>Chopra's next challenge&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>26-year-old Chopra will begin his season in the Doha Diamond League Meeting on May 10 before taking the field at the Paavo Nurmi Games in Turku, Finland on June 18.</p>

<p>Chopra won a silver in the 2022 edition with a throw of 89.30 metres. However, this time, his challenge&nbsp;will be up-and-coming star, 19-year-old Max Dehning of Germany, who recently entered the 90-metre club.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Olympic and world champion Neeraj Chopra has revealed that legendary tennis player Roger Federer is a big fan of Indian food. Chopra met Federer in January, earlier this year and the duo discussed all things sports, life and food habits.

Olympic and world champion Neeraj Chopra has revealed that legendary tennis player Roger Federer is a big fan of Indian food. Chopra met Federer in January, earlier this year and the duo discussed all things sports, life and food habits. Speaking at the virtual media briefing, Chopra said he was awestruck meeting Federer and asked him what was the secret of maintaining longevity at the top. "Yes, I met him in January this year. It felt good meeting him. It's great to meet a top-level player from any sport. So it felt good. First of all, as a person, I felt positive vibes from him. Secondly, our chat. I only had one question in mind. I wanted to ask him about his lengthy career and how he was able to stay on top of the sport for a long time. I wanted to ask how he was able to maintain that." "So these are things that I also think about. So that was it. The rest were normal talks. I asked if he had visited India and if he liked Indian food. So he told me, 'Indian food is in my top 5.' So it felt good," added Neeraj. Watch | Exclusive interview with Neeraj Chopra × The two superstars met in Zurich and had a mutual admiration for each other. Federer particularly praised Chopra for achieving so much in his relatively short career. “I am amazed by how much Neeraj has achieved personally and for his country through his grit and determination. It’s been great to meet him here in Zurich,” the 20-time Grand Slam winner said. Also read | To retain Olympics gold will be biggest aim in Paris - Neeraj Chopra ahead of big 2024 challenge After the meeting. Federer presented Chopra with an autographed tennis racquet while the Indian javelin star handed the former World No 1 a signed India jersey from the Asian Games. Chopra's next challenge 26-year-old Chopra will begin his season in the Doha Diamond League Meeting on May 10 before taking the field at the Paavo Nurmi Games in Turku, Finland on June 18. Chopra won a silver in the 2022 edition with a throw of 89.30 metres. However, this time, his challenge will be up-and-coming star, 19-year-old Max Dehning of Germany, who recently entered the 90-metre club. (With inputs from agencies)

'Indian food is...': Neeraj Chopra reveals what Roger Federer told him during their meeting

<p>Roger Federer will soon get a documentary and none other than Oscar-winning director for Amy Winehouse documentary <em>Amy</em>, Asif Kapadia, will helm the project. The Roger Federer documentary will document the final 12 days of the tennis legend’s professional life. It will be a feature-length documentary that will drop on Prime Video.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The yet-to-be-titled documentary is described as “an intimate follow-along through the final 12 days of Roger Federer’s illustrious career. Originally a home video never intended for public viewing, the film captures Federer at his most vulnerable and candid self, as he says goodbye to a game and the fans that shaped his life for the last two decades.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What will the documentary be about</strong></h2>

<p>The documentary film will feature interviews from Roger Federer’s professional rivals and friends, including Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray.</p>

<p>Talking about the film, Roger Federer said, “Initially, the idea was to capture the final moments of my professional tennis career so that I could have it later on to show my family and friends. During my career, I tended to shy away from having cameras around me and my family, especially during important moments. But I didn’t see the harm in shooting this as it was never intended for the public.”</p>

<p>He added, “However, we captured so many powerful moments, and it transformed into a deeply personal journey. I am happy to be partnering with Prime Video because of their vast global reach and significant presence in the film industry. This ensures that the story of my final days in tennis will resonate with both tennis enthusiasts and broader audiences worldwide.”</p>

<p>Presented by Prime Video, the Federer documentary is a Lafcadia Productions production. The film is produced by Lafcadia principal Kapadia and George Chignell.</p>

<p>Asif Kapadia will direct the film which will be co-directed by Joe Sabia.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Roger Federer: A celebrated player</strong></h2>

<p>For the unversed, Roger Federer had quite a celebrated playing career. He won 20 Grand Slam men’s singles titles and a record eight Wimbledon wins.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The documentary is likely to release in July&nbsp;to coincide with the 2024 Wimbledon Championships.</p>

<p>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-rooney-mara-and-joaquin-phoenix-expecting-baby-no-2-691704">Rooney Mara and Joaquin Phoenix expecting baby no. 2</a></p>


Roger Federer will soon get a documentary and none other than Oscar-winning director for Amy Winehouse documentary Amy, Asif Kapadia, will helm the project. The Roger Federer documentary will document the final 12 days of the tennis legend’s professional life.

Roger Federer will soon get a documentary and none other than Oscar-winning director for Amy Winehouse documentary Amy, Asif Kapadia, will helm the project. The Roger Federer documentary will document the final 12 days of the tennis legend’s professional life. It will be a feature-length documentary that will drop on Prime Video. The yet-to-be-titled documentary is described as “an intimate follow-along through the final 12 days of Roger Federer’s illustrious career. Originally a home video never intended for public viewing, the film captures Federer at his most vulnerable and candid self, as he says goodbye to a game and the fans that shaped his life for the last two decades.” What will the documentary be about The documentary film will feature interviews from Roger Federer’s professional rivals and friends, including Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray. Talking about the film, Roger Federer said, “Initially, the idea was to capture the final moments of my professional tennis career so that I could have it later on to show my family and friends. During my career, I tended to shy away from having cameras around me and my family, especially during important moments. But I didn’t see the harm in shooting this as it was never intended for the public.” He added, “However, we captured so many powerful moments, and it transformed into a deeply personal journey. I am happy to be partnering with Prime Video because of their vast global reach and significant presence in the film industry. This ensures that the story of my final days in tennis will resonate with both tennis enthusiasts and broader audiences worldwide.” Presented by Prime Video, the Federer documentary is a Lafcadia Productions production. The film is produced by Lafcadia principal Kapadia and George Chignell. Asif Kapadia will direct the film which will be co-directed by Joe Sabia. Roger Federer: A celebrated player For the unversed, Roger Federer had quite a celebrated playing career. He won 20 Grand Slam men’s singles titles and a record eight Wimbledon wins. The documentary is likely to release in July to coincide with the 2024 Wimbledon Championships. Also read: Rooney Mara and Joaquin Phoenix expecting baby no. 2

Documentary on Roger Federer to showcase the final 12 days of the tennis legend's journey

<p>Swiss tennis legend Roger Federer said that he's amazed by the achievements of India's Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra. The duo, who are the brand ambassadors of Switzerland tourism, recently met in the Swiss capital Zurich. Chopra became India's only second individual gold medalist in 2021 Tokyo Olympics in the javelin throw.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I am amazed by how much Neeraj has achieved personally and for his country through his grit and determination. It’s been great to meet him here in Zurich,” the 20-time Grand Slam winner said about Chopra.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/1st-test-india-openers-attacking-intent-sign-of-pitch-going-to-get-worse-says-england-batter-ben-duckett-683766">1st Test: 'India openers' attacking intent sign of pitch going to get worse,' says England batter Ben Duckett</a></p>

<p>Neeraj also shared a post on his official Instagram handle and appreciated the Swiss great. The duo also exchanged&nbsp;souvenirs, with Chopra giving Federer his signed jersey of Asian Games while Federer presented Chopra with a signed tennis racquet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It was very nice meeting you. Thank you for the advice, I will follow,” wrote Neeraj on the jersey he gave to Federer.</p>

<p>“It’s a dream come true for me to meet Roger Federer here in Zurich. I have always admired his skill, his spirit of true sportsmanship and his ability to inspire millions around the world. Today, however, what inspired me the most was his humility and his easy-going charm that made me feel so comfortable in his presence. We had a wonderful time exchanging notes about our respective passions and life’s experiences on and off the field,” Neeraj said after the meeting.</p>

<p>With the 2024 Paris Olympics around the corner, Neeraj is aiming to repeat his feat and become the first Indian to win two individual gold medals in the prestigious event. Apart from the Olympics, Chopra has shone in various other tournaments as well, including Asian Games, World Athletics and Diamond League.</p>

<p>Federer, on the the hand, retired in 2022 as one of the greatest players to ever step foot on the court.</p>


Swiss tennis legend Roger Federer said that he's amazed by the achievements of India's Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra. The duo, who are the brand ambassadors of Switzerland tourism, recently met in the Swiss capital Zurich.

Swiss tennis legend Roger Federer said that he's amazed by the achievements of India's Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra. The duo, who are the brand ambassadors of Switzerland tourism, recently met in the Swiss capital Zurich. Chopra became India's only second individual gold medalist in 2021 Tokyo Olympics in the javelin throw. “I am amazed by how much Neeraj has achieved personally and for his country through his grit and determination. It’s been great to meet him here in Zurich,” the 20-time Grand Slam winner said about Chopra. Also Read: 1st Test: 'India openers' attacking intent sign of pitch going to get worse,' says England batter Ben Duckett Neeraj also shared a post on his official Instagram handle and appreciated the Swiss great. The duo also exchanged souvenirs, with Chopra giving Federer his signed jersey of Asian Games while Federer presented Chopra with a signed tennis racquet. “It was very nice meeting you. Thank you for the advice, I will follow,” wrote Neeraj on the jersey he gave to Federer. “It’s a dream come true for me to meet Roger Federer here in Zurich. I have always admired his skill, his spirit of true sportsmanship and his ability to inspire millions around the world. Today, however, what inspired me the most was his humility and his easy-going charm that made me feel so comfortable in his presence. We had a wonderful time exchanging notes about our respective passions and life’s experiences on and off the field,” Neeraj said after the meeting. With the 2024 Paris Olympics around the corner, Neeraj is aiming to repeat his feat and become the first Indian to win two individual gold medals in the prestigious event. Apart from the Olympics, Chopra has shone in various other tournaments as well, including Asian Games, World Athletics and Diamond League. Federer, on the the hand, retired in 2022 as one of the greatest players to ever step foot on the court.

'Amazed' Roger Federer praises India's ace athlete Neeraj Chopra

<p>Serbian tennis player Novak Djokovic secured a place in the quarterfinal of the ongoing Australia Open - equalling Roger Federer's long-standing record of appearing in the 58 grand slam quarterfinals. This would also be Djokovic's 14th quarterfinal in the Australian Open - equalling the record of Spaniard Rafael Nadal and Aussie John Newcombe for the joint second most in tournament. The Serb is also on 32-match winning streak at the Australian Open.</p>

<p>The 24-time grand slam winner is chasing his 11th Australian Open title and has hit form after being a bit sluggish in the first two rounds. His campaign hit the right notes during his fourth round win against 20th seed Adrian Mannarino on Sunday (January 21). Djokovic just dropped three games to win the match 6-0, 6-0, 6-3 to enter the round of 16.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/england-batter-harry-brook-withdraws-from-upcoming-india-series-announces-board-682048">England batter Harry Brook withdraws from upcoming India series, announces board</a></p>

<p>“Today was the best day in terms of tennis, the way I felt on the court. I’m really excited to enter the second week,” said Djokovic after the win where he wanted to lose a game to get three bagels out of his mind.</p>

<p>"I really wanted to lose that game in the third set because the tension was building up so much in the stadium," he said, referring to the possibility of completing a rare "triple bagel".</p>

<p>"I just needed to get that out of the way and re-focus," said the 36-year-old Serb.</p>

<p>He'll next face American Taylor Fritz who has beaten Stefanos Tsitsipas in the fourth round to enter the last 16. Djokovic has 8-0 lead against Fritz and seven of them are in straight sets. The one time Fritz stretched the game was back in 2021 at the Australian Open when they played a five-set match.</p>

<p>Fritz, however, is confident of giving a good fight to the Serb.</p>

<p>“I think a lot of these match-ups are from when I was a bit younger,” said Fritz. “Since I’ve improved, become a better player, the times I’ve played him since I just haven’t brought my best level and you need it when you compete with someone like Novak. Gonna have to serve like I did today but I feel confident if I play like I did today, then I have a chance.”</p>


Serbian tennis player Novak Djokovic secured a place in the quarterfinal of the ongoing Australia Open - equalling Roger Federer's long-standing record of appearing in the 58 grand slam quarterfinals.

Serbian tennis player Novak Djokovic secured a place in the quarterfinal of the ongoing Australia Open - equalling Roger Federer's long-standing record of appearing in the 58 grand slam quarterfinals. This would also be Djokovic's 14th quarterfinal in the Australian Open - equalling the record of Spaniard Rafael Nadal and Aussie John Newcombe for the joint second most in tournament. The Serb is also on 32-match winning streak at the Australian Open. The 24-time grand slam winner is chasing his 11th Australian Open title and has hit form after being a bit sluggish in the first two rounds. His campaign hit the right notes during his fourth round win against 20th seed Adrian Mannarino on Sunday (January 21). Djokovic just dropped three games to win the match 6-0, 6-0, 6-3 to enter the round of 16. Also Read: England batter Harry Brook withdraws from upcoming India series, announces board “Today was the best day in terms of tennis, the way I felt on the court. I’m really excited to enter the second week,” said Djokovic after the win where he wanted to lose a game to get three bagels out of his mind. "I really wanted to lose that game in the third set because the tension was building up so much in the stadium," he said, referring to the possibility of completing a rare "triple bagel". "I just needed to get that out of the way and re-focus," said the 36-year-old Serb. He'll next face American Taylor Fritz who has beaten Stefanos Tsitsipas in the fourth round to enter the last 16. Djokovic has 8-0 lead against Fritz and seven of them are in straight sets. The one time Fritz stretched the game was back in 2021 at the Australian Open when they played a five-set match. Fritz, however, is confident of giving a good fight to the Serb. “I think a lot of these match-ups are from when I was a bit younger,” said Fritz. “Since I’ve improved, become a better player, the times I’ve played him since I just haven’t brought my best level and you need it when you compete with someone like Novak. Gonna have to serve like I did today but I feel confident if I play like I did today, then I have a chance.”

Australian Open: Novak Djokovic equals Roger Federer’s record with fourth round win

<p>Serbian tennis player Novak Djokovic has shared that retired Swiss player Roger Federer didn't like him early in his career. Djokovic made the comments after his victory in the Australia Open third round on January 19 over Tomas Martin Etcheverry. The Serb, one of the most decorated players of the game with 24 grand slam&nbsp;titles, shared the thoughts after being asked to reflect on his career as a newcomer.</p>

<p>"I know certainly Federer didn't like the way I was behaving at the beginning," he said at the Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne. "I think it didn't sit with him well. I don't know about the others. I guess I wasn't the favourite type of guy to some of the top guys because I was not afraid to say that I want to be the best player in the world."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-open-top-seed-iga-swiatek-crashes-out-after-defeat-against-czech-teenager-681853">Australian Open: Top-seed Iga Swiatek crashes out after defeat against Czech teenager</a></p>

<p>"I was confident, and I felt like I have the game to back it up. Obviously on the court a lot of things can happen in a kind of heat of a battle. It was a very long time ago now, 20 years since I made my first debut I think on the professional tour. It's really hard to say who liked me more or less." added Djokovic.</p>

<p>Federer, considered one of the tennis greats of all time, retired with 20 grand slam titles. The Swiss and the Serb played 50 times with Federer winning 23 times while Djokovic managing 27 wins. Djokovic, along with Spain's Rafael Nadal (22 grand slam titles) and Federer, makes the Big Three of tennis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Currently, Djokovic is chasing his record-breaking 25th grand slam title and 11th Australia Open. He started out patchy in the tournament but has now raced back to his best as visible in his straight set victory over Etcheverry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Djokovic next plays against Frenchman Adrian Mannarino in the round of 16 on Sunday (Jan 21).</p>


Serbian tennis player Novak Djokovic has shared that retired Swiss player Roger Federer didn't like him early in his career. Djokovic made the comments after his victory in the Australia Open third round on January 19 over Tomas Martin Etcheverry.

Serbian tennis player Novak Djokovic has shared that retired Swiss player Roger Federer didn't like him early in his career. Djokovic made the comments after his victory in the Australia Open third round on January 19 over Tomas Martin Etcheverry. The Serb, one of the most decorated players of the game with 24 grand slam titles, shared the thoughts after being asked to reflect on his career as a newcomer. "I know certainly Federer didn't like the way I was behaving at the beginning," he said at the Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne. "I think it didn't sit with him well. I don't know about the others. I guess I wasn't the favourite type of guy to some of the top guys because I was not afraid to say that I want to be the best player in the world." Also Read: Australian Open: Top-seed Iga Swiatek crashes out after defeat against Czech teenager "I was confident, and I felt like I have the game to back it up. Obviously on the court a lot of things can happen in a kind of heat of a battle. It was a very long time ago now, 20 years since I made my first debut I think on the professional tour. It's really hard to say who liked me more or less." added Djokovic. Federer, considered one of the tennis greats of all time, retired with 20 grand slam titles. The Swiss and the Serb played 50 times with Federer winning 23 times while Djokovic managing 27 wins. Djokovic, along with Spain's Rafael Nadal (22 grand slam titles) and Federer, makes the Big Three of tennis. Currently, Djokovic is chasing his record-breaking 25th grand slam title and 11th Australia Open. He started out patchy in the tournament but has now raced back to his best as visible in his straight set victory over Etcheverry. Djokovic next plays against Frenchman Adrian Mannarino in the round of 16 on Sunday (Jan 21).

Novak Djokovic reveals Roger Federer ‘didn’t like him’ early in his career

<p>World number eight Holger Rune has added Severin Luthi, a long-time mentor to Swiss great Roger Federer, to his coaching team, just weeks after appointing six-time major winner Boris Becker as his coach ahead of the 2024 season. Luthi, 47, coached Federer from 2007 until the 20-time Grand Slam champion's retirement in 2022 and also captains the Swiss Davis Cup team.</p>

<p>Rune, who is gearing up for the Jan. 14-28 Australian Open Grand Slam, has been working in Monte Carlo with Becker after bringing the German onto his team in mid-October.</p>

<p>"Very happy to welcome Severin to my team alongside Boris," Rune wrote on social media along with a picture of his team. Rune made two ATP 1000 finals this year, at Rome and Monte Carlo, while his only title came at the Bavarian International in Munich in April.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/ligue-1-kylian-mbappe-scores-twice-as-paris-saint-germain-finish-year-on-top-671935">Ligue 1: Kylian Mbappe scores twice as Paris Saint-Germain finish year on top</a></strong></p>

<h2 data-label="Package" data-qa-component="item-headline" data-rc-highlight="headline" dir="auto" title="Tennis-Tennis governing bodies aim to combat online abuse of players">Tennis&nbsp;governing bodies aim to combat online abuse of players</h2>

<p>The major governing bodies of&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;on Wednesday said they will aim to protect their athletes from online abuse by monitoring, reporting and helping to identify who is behind threats and other inappropriate contact. The ITF, WTA, AELTC and USTA will use the Threat Matrix service to monitor players' public-facing social media for abusive and threatening content on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, YouTube, Facebook and TikTok beginning Jan. 1. "This development reflects the commitment of the international&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;bodies involved to protect and support athletes from the mental trauma and potential real-world threat of online harassment and abuse," the organizations said in a joint release.</p>

<p>Threat Matrix, which uses a combination of artificial intelligence and open-source data, will provide rapid threat assessment of personal safety, alert social platforms of abuse, and support law enforcement agencies in investigations of serious cases. "The Threat Matrix service will support the identification of abusers, against whom all available measures will be taken," the bodies said. "Tennis&nbsp;is committed to supporting its athletes against online abuse, to which this ground-breaking initiative will make a significant contribution."</p>

<p>Tennis&nbsp;players have said they have seen a rise in online abuse as sports betting has becomes more widespread, with betters who lose money on matches taking their frustrations out on the athletes.</p>


World number eight Holger Rune has added Severin Luthi, a long-time mentor to Swiss great Roger Federer, to his coaching team, just weeks after appointing six-time major winner Boris Becker as his coach ahead of the 2024 season.

World number eight Holger Rune has added Severin Luthi, a long-time mentor to Swiss great Roger Federer, to his coaching team, just weeks after appointing six-time major winner Boris Becker as his coach ahead of the 2024 season. Luthi, 47, coached Federer from 2007 until the 20-time Grand Slam champion's retirement in 2022 and also captains the Swiss Davis Cup team. Rune, who is gearing up for the Jan. 14-28 Australian Open Grand Slam, has been working in Monte Carlo with Becker after bringing the German onto his team in mid-October. "Very happy to welcome Severin to my team alongside Boris," Rune wrote on social media along with a picture of his team. Rune made two ATP 1000 finals this year, at Rome and Monte Carlo, while his only title came at the Bavarian International in Munich in April. Also read: Ligue 1: Kylian Mbappe scores twice as Paris Saint-Germain finish year on top Tennis governing bodies aim to combat online abuse of players The major governing bodies of tennis on Wednesday said they will aim to protect their athletes from online abuse by monitoring, reporting and helping to identify who is behind threats and other inappropriate contact. The ITF, WTA, AELTC and USTA will use the Threat Matrix service to monitor players' public-facing social media for abusive and threatening content on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, YouTube, Facebook and TikTok beginning Jan. 1. "This development reflects the commitment of the international tennis bodies involved to protect and support athletes from the mental trauma and potential real-world threat of online harassment and abuse," the organizations said in a joint release. Threat Matrix, which uses a combination of artificial intelligence and open-source data, will provide rapid threat assessment of personal safety, alert social platforms of abuse, and support law enforcement agencies in investigations of serious cases. "The Threat Matrix service will support the identification of abusers, against whom all available measures will be taken," the bodies said. "Tennis is committed to supporting its athletes against online abuse, to which this ground-breaking initiative will make a significant contribution." Tennis players have said they have seen a rise in online abuse as sports betting has becomes more widespread, with betters who lose money on matches taking their frustrations out on the athletes.

Tennis: Holger Rune adds Roger Federer's former coach to team after Boris Becker appointment

<p data-testid="paragraph-0">An enthusiastic crowd of 20,340 fans gathered to watch Carlos Alcaraz play Tommy Paul at Mexico City's main bullring on Wednesday, grasping their one chance this year to see world class tennis players in their own city. Although the crowd was smaller than those which turned out to watch Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal at similar exhibitions in previous years, there was no less passion at the Monumental Plaza de Toros.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-2">"I will take a picture to never forget this," Alcaraz said after the match. "It has been a very special event, the truth is that I can only thank you for supporting tennis and me." The world number two and 13th-ranked Paul were the main attraction with Greek Maria Sakkari and former Australian Open champion Caroline Wozniacki facing off as an appetiser. "For me and my wife it is very important to have this type of events," said fan Diego Segura. "Hopefully this will continue to grow, because it is a unique opportunity to see Alcaraz (playing) live in our city."</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-6">A growing market and the Mexican capital's hungry interest in sports has led others to offer unique opportunities for fans in the teeming metropolis of some nine million people. Major League Baseball (MLB) and the National Basketball Association (NBA) offer regular season games, with the latter promising to expand&nbsp;or even have a franchise in Mexico City.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-6"><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba/news-nba-shai-gilgeous-alexanders-33-points-helps-oklahoma-city-thunder-defeat-los-angeles-lakers-664934">NBA: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's 33 points helps Oklahoma City Thunder defeat Los Angeles Lakers</a></strong></p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-8">Meanwhile, the National Football League (NFL), which until last year had a game scheduled in the city, had to suspend it due to the remodelling of the Azteca Stadium for the 2026 World Cup, but continues to offer experiences to Mexican fans&nbsp;as it seeks to grow internationally. Motorsports has also experienced strong growth, notably with the return of Formula One to the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez in 2015, an event for which next year tickets are already sold out.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-10">Formula E, too, has found a place in the Mexican market, with the season kicking off in the capital. Tomas Wolf, who was attending Wednesday's exhibition with his 10-year-old son and namesake, said having the opportunity to watch world class tennis players in the flesh was vital to the growth of the game in Mexico. "(I want) Alcaraz to win, he's an inspiration for me," said the younger Wolf, as if to prove his father's point.</p>


An enthusiastic crowd of 20,340 fans gathered to watch Carlos Alcaraz play Tommy Paul at Mexico City's main bullring on Wednesday, grasping their one chance this year to see world class tennis players in their own city.

An enthusiastic crowd of 20,340 fans gathered to watch Carlos Alcaraz play Tommy Paul at Mexico City's main bullring on Wednesday, grasping their one chance this year to see world class tennis players in their own city. Although the crowd was smaller than those which turned out to watch Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal at similar exhibitions in previous years, there was no less passion at the Monumental Plaza de Toros. "I will take a picture to never forget this," Alcaraz said after the match. "It has been a very special event, the truth is that I can only thank you for supporting tennis and me." The world number two and 13th-ranked Paul were the main attraction with Greek Maria Sakkari and former Australian Open champion Caroline Wozniacki facing off as an appetiser. "For me and my wife it is very important to have this type of events," said fan Diego Segura. "Hopefully this will continue to grow, because it is a unique opportunity to see Alcaraz (playing) live in our city." A growing market and the Mexican capital's hungry interest in sports has led others to offer unique opportunities for fans in the teeming metropolis of some nine million people. Major League Baseball (MLB) and the National Basketball Association (NBA) offer regular season games, with the latter promising to expand or even have a franchise in Mexico City. Also Read: NBA: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's 33 points helps Oklahoma City Thunder defeat Los Angeles Lakers Meanwhile, the National Football League (NFL), which until last year had a game scheduled in the city, had to suspend it due to the remodelling of the Azteca Stadium for the 2026 World Cup, but continues to offer experiences to Mexican fans as it seeks to grow internationally. Motorsports has also experienced strong growth, notably with the return of Formula One to the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez in 2015, an event for which next year tickets are already sold out. Formula E, too, has found a place in the Mexican market, with the season kicking off in the capital. Tomas Wolf, who was attending Wednesday's exhibition with his 10-year-old son and namesake, said having the opportunity to watch world class tennis players in the flesh was vital to the growth of the game in Mexico. "(I want) Alcaraz to win, he's an inspiration for me," said the younger Wolf, as if to prove his father's point.

Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz shines in Mexico City as fans get glimpse of world class tennis

<p>Tennis Champion Roger Federer spent his Monday afternoon playing chess with the ChessKid Ambassador, Tani. The Swiss legend was seated across from the chess prodigy, also known as FM Tanitoluwa Adewumi, in New York. However, this was not the first time Federer engaged with Tani in a chess game. Earlier this month, the duo played three games together. For those who don’t know, Tani played with a handicap. The chess prodigy had only one rook at his disposal. But despite having an advantage, the tennis star was unable to defeat Tani in their captivating chess matches.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Federer vs 12-year-old chess master Tani Adewumi in New York - wholesome content<br />
<br />
_ <a href="https://twitter.com/UNIQLO_JP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UNIQLO_JP</a> <a href="https://t.co/JPFSTbfKsi">pic.twitter.com/JPFSTbfKsi</a></p>
— Bastien Fachan (@BastienFachan) <a href="https://twitter.com/BastienFachan/status/1679821925382586371?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>Tani vs Roger Federer?</h2>

<p>Since the beginning of their battle, Roger Federer said that he didn’t even think for a minute that he would defeat Tani. And likewise, the Chess master defeated Roger Federer thrice. For instance, one game concluded with Tani’s checkmate, as follows:</p>

<p>Tanitoluwa Adewumi vs. Roger Federer<br />
1-0 Columbus Park, New York, July 2023</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-transfers-german-giants-bayern-munich-seal-signing-of-kim-min-jae-from-italian-champions-napoli-617197">Football Transfers: German giants Bayern Munich seal signing of Kim Min-jae from Italian champions Napoli</a></strong></p>

<h2>Roger Federer’s video series</h2>

<p>The games played by Tani and Federer were recorded for Roger Federer’s new video series. For the unversed, the Swiss legend is starring in a video series called 24 Hours with Roger, where he is visiting his favorite cities across the world. And in his New York City feature, he shot videos of a chess battle against Tani. The video titled Meeting of the Masters is highlighted as the most entertaining episode.</p>

<p>While talking about his experience, Federer said that he was never nervous during his playing days but he was before sitting across the chess master. On the other hand, Tani expressed his calmness, saying that he wasn’t nervous at all. He also called Federer a humble individual and said that the Tennis superstar loves him because he had read about him. The chess master also revealed that Roger Federer advised him not to become overly proud of his achievements. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-2023-india-vs-pakistan-on-september-2-in-sri-lanka-marks-draft-schedule-617259">Asia Cup 2023: India vs Pakistan on September 2 in Sri Lanka, marks draft schedule</a></strong></p>

<h2>Who is Tanitoluwa Adewumi?</h2>

<p>Tanitoluwa Adewumi is one of the five chess prodigies recommended by ChessKid to watch in 2023. His journey gained recognition after he garnered international attention following his autobiography My Name Is Tani was out in 2020. Born in Nigeria, Tani has been earning trophies since the age of 11. The chess master has also met other renowned athletes apart from Federer like Grant Williams and Kayvon Thibodeaux.</p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for&nbsp;wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" data-gtm-yt-inspected-19="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-24="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-33="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Tennis Champion Roger Federer spent his Monday afternoon playing chess with the ChessKid Ambassador, Tani. The Swiss legend was seated across from the chess prodigy, also known as FM Tanitoluwa Adewumi, in New York.

Tennis Champion Roger Federer spent his Monday afternoon playing chess with the ChessKid Ambassador, Tani. The Swiss legend was seated across from the chess prodigy, also known as FM Tanitoluwa Adewumi, in New York. However, this was not the first time Federer engaged with Tani in a chess game. Earlier this month, the duo played three games together. For those who don’t know, Tani played with a handicap. The chess prodigy had only one rook at his disposal. But despite having an advantage, the tennis star was unable to defeat Tani in their captivating chess matches. Federer vs 12-year-old chess master Tani Adewumi in New York - wholesome content _ @UNIQLO_JP pic.twitter.com/JPFSTbfKsi — Bastien Fachan (@BastienFachan) July 14, 2023 × Tani vs Roger Federer? Since the beginning of their battle, Roger Federer said that he didn’t even think for a minute that he would defeat Tani. And likewise, the Chess master defeated Roger Federer thrice. For instance, one game concluded with Tani’s checkmate, as follows: Tanitoluwa Adewumi vs. Roger Federer 1-0 Columbus Park, New York, July 2023 Also read: Football Transfers: German giants Bayern Munich seal signing of Kim Min-jae from Italian champions Napoli Roger Federer’s video series The games played by Tani and Federer were recorded for Roger Federer’s new video series. For the unversed, the Swiss legend is starring in a video series called 24 Hours with Roger, where he is visiting his favorite cities across the world. And in his New York City feature, he shot videos of a chess battle against Tani. The video titled Meeting of the Masters is highlighted as the most entertaining episode. While talking about his experience, Federer said that he was never nervous during his playing days but he was before sitting across the chess master. On the other hand, Tani expressed his calmness, saying that he wasn’t nervous at all. He also called Federer a humble individual and said that the Tennis superstar loves him because he had read about him. The chess master also revealed that Roger Federer advised him not to become overly proud of his achievements. Also read: Asia Cup 2023: India vs Pakistan on September 2 in Sri Lanka, marks draft schedule Who is Tanitoluwa Adewumi? Tanitoluwa Adewumi is one of the five chess prodigies recommended by ChessKid to watch in 2023. His journey gained recognition after he garnered international attention following his autobiography My Name Is Tani was out in 2020. Born in Nigeria, Tani has been earning trophies since the age of 11. The chess master has also met other renowned athletes apart from Federer like Grant Williams and Kayvon Thibodeaux. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

When chess master Tani locked horns with tennis legend Roger Federer

<p>Roger Federer was in attendance on Day 2 of Wimbledon 2023 as he made his presence felt at the Centre Court, on Tuesday (July 04), during Elena&nbsp;Rybakina's first-round match against Shelby Rogers, where the former emerged on top by 4-6, 6-1, 6-2. Federer's presence made heads turn as he received a rousing reception. The Swiss maestro retired from tennis in September 2022 but still commands huge respect and admiration from fans&nbsp;worldwide, and it was evident from the welcome he got at the Centre Court.</p>

<p>The 20-time Grand Slam champion was mainly back on Wimbledon’s Centre Court&nbsp;on Tuesday&nbsp;for a special ceremony in his honour. After that, CNN caught up with him for an exclusive interaction where he opened up on attempting to give tennis coaching to his kids and recalled his send-off at the Laver Cup 2022. Talking about him trying to coach his kids, Federer revealed that he is not the coach but the dad and his kids often do not listen to him.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'It doesn’t matter if you’ve won Wimbledon or not, you’re still the dad'</strong></h2>

<p>In this regard, Federer stated, “I’m not the coach, I am the dad and the dad’s advice, as we know, only goes so far. It doesn’t matter if you’ve won Wimbledon or not, you’re still the dad and sometimes they don’t want to hear what you have to say. I try to be funny, but at the same time, I also try to be straight sometimes and just teach them. I come in more as a technical coach so I try to teach them about all the tennis rackets.”</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-2023-day-3-live-scores-latest-updates-novak-djokovic-vs-jordan-thompson-iga-swiatek-highlights-612203">Wimbledon 2023, Day 3 Live Scores, Latest Updates: Novak Djokovic, Iga Swiatek to take court on Day 3</a></strong></p>

<p>Federer also opened up on his emotional farewell at the Laver Cup, his last competitive tournament before retirement in September 2022. "I didn’t talk to anybody about it, really. It was just more about getting away from it, but eventually [I had to] decide: where am I going to retire? How painful is it going to be? Or how much of a celebration will it be? But it ended up being everything and more for me. I thought it was beautiful and being surrounded by Rafa (Nadal), Novak (Djokovic), (Andy) Murray, (Bjorn) Borg, (John) McEnroe, (Rod) Laver, you name it, (Stefan) Edberg, they were all there, my team, my family. So it was a very, very nice end because I was really, truly dreading that moment of how to go out of the game," the all-time great opined.</p>

<p>Post-retirement, the 41-year-old is enjoying watching the proceedings as a fan and stated that he does not miss playing the game as he knew his body couldn't cope anymore. Known for his flawless playing style, Federer ruled the court for several years. He ended his illustrious career with 20 Grand Slam titles -- third-most -- including six Australian Open, eight Wimbledon, five US Open titles and a solitary win at the French Open.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Roger Federer was in attendance on Day 2 of Wimbledon 2023 as he made his presence felt at the Centre Court, on Tuesday (July 04), during Elena Rybakina's first-round match against Shelby Rogers, where the former emerged on top by 4-6, 6-1, 6-2.

Roger Federer was in attendance on Day 2 of Wimbledon 2023 as he made his presence felt at the Centre Court, on Tuesday (July 04), during Elena Rybakina's first-round match against Shelby Rogers, where the former emerged on top by 4-6, 6-1, 6-2. Federer's presence made heads turn as he received a rousing reception. The Swiss maestro retired from tennis in September 2022 but still commands huge respect and admiration from fans worldwide, and it was evident from the welcome he got at the Centre Court. The 20-time Grand Slam champion was mainly back on Wimbledon’s Centre Court on Tuesday for a special ceremony in his honour. After that, CNN caught up with him for an exclusive interaction where he opened up on attempting to give tennis coaching to his kids and recalled his send-off at the Laver Cup 2022. Talking about him trying to coach his kids, Federer revealed that he is not the coach but the dad and his kids often do not listen to him. 'It doesn’t matter if you’ve won Wimbledon or not, you’re still the dad' In this regard, Federer stated, “I’m not the coach, I am the dad and the dad’s advice, as we know, only goes so far. It doesn’t matter if you’ve won Wimbledon or not, you’re still the dad and sometimes they don’t want to hear what you have to say. I try to be funny, but at the same time, I also try to be straight sometimes and just teach them. I come in more as a technical coach so I try to teach them about all the tennis rackets.” Also Read: Wimbledon 2023, Day 3 Live Scores, Latest Updates: Novak Djokovic, Iga Swiatek to take court on Day 3 Federer also opened up on his emotional farewell at the Laver Cup, his last competitive tournament before retirement in September 2022. "I didn’t talk to anybody about it, really. It was just more about getting away from it, but eventually [I had to] decide: where am I going to retire? How painful is it going to be? Or how much of a celebration will it be? But it ended up being everything and more for me. I thought it was beautiful and being surrounded by Rafa (Nadal), Novak (Djokovic), (Andy) Murray, (Bjorn) Borg, (John) McEnroe, (Rod) Laver, you name it, (Stefan) Edberg, they were all there, my team, my family. So it was a very, very nice end because I was really, truly dreading that moment of how to go out of the game," the all-time great opined. Post-retirement, the 41-year-old is enjoying watching the proceedings as a fan and stated that he does not miss playing the game as he knew his body couldn't cope anymore. Known for his flawless playing style, Federer ruled the court for several years. He ended his illustrious career with 20 Grand Slam titles -- third-most -- including six Australian Open, eight Wimbledon, five US Open titles and a solitary win at the French Open. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Doesn’t matter if you’ve won Wimbledon or not, you’re still the dad - Roger Federer on coaching his kids

<p>Daniil Medvedev has no doubt that Novak Djokovic is the greatest tennis player in history and the world number three believes the Serbian's ability to conjure up victories even on his bad days sets him apart from the rest.</p>

<p>Djokovic claimed a men's record 23rd Grand Slam title at the French Open last month to leapfrog Rafa Nadal and go three ahead of another great rival in Roger Federer, with the 36-year-old eyeing an eighth crown at Wimbledon which begins on Monday.</p>

<p>Victory in London will leave Djokovic level with Margaret Court on 24 major titles atop the all-time list.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-whoever-i-get-to-face-it-doesnt-make-a-difference-novak-djokovic-on-defending-wimbledon-crown-610954">Tennis: 'Whoever I get to face, it doesn't make a difference...': Novak Djokovic on defending Wimbledon crown</a></p>

<p>"I don't know how does he do it," Medvedev told reporters. "I think if I saw it right, Novak is almost 50%. I think I saw he played 70 majors and 35 (34) he was in the final. I don't know how it is possible. He doesn't have bad days?</p>

<p>"Actually, he does, like everybody. Even on these bad days, he manages to beat the opponent. It's actually tough because it's one against one. Both of them want to win.</p>

<p>"I don't know how he's doing it. That's why he's for me the greatest in the history of tennis. But this is basically, of course, debatable."</p>

<h2>'I want continue playing against him...'</h2>

<p>Having also won the Australian Open at the start of the year, Djokovic is looking to keep alive his hopes of a calendar year Grand Slam - winning all four majors in a single year.</p>

<p>Medvedev famously beat Djokovic in the 2021 U.S. Open final to deny the world number two the feat at the final hurdle.</p>

<p>"To be able to beat him when he was going for a Grand Slam, maybe he was a little bit tighter than usual, but I played an amazing match," Medvedev said. "This gives me even more pride that I was able to do it, given what he continued to do after this.</p>

<p>"I'm just happy I was able to do it. I don't want to stop. I want to try to continue to play against him again in finals, or against anyone else. That's what I didn't manage to do since some time."</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>


Daniil Medvedev has no doubt that Novak Djokovic is the greatest tennis player in history and the world number three believes the Serbian's ability to conjure up victories even on his bad days sets him apart from the rest.

Daniil Medvedev has no doubt that Novak Djokovic is the greatest tennis player in history and the world number three believes the Serbian's ability to conjure up victories even on his bad days sets him apart from the rest. Djokovic claimed a men's record 23rd Grand Slam title at the French Open last month to leapfrog Rafa Nadal and go three ahead of another great rival in Roger Federer, with the 36-year-old eyeing an eighth crown at Wimbledon which begins on Monday. Victory in London will leave Djokovic level with Margaret Court on 24 major titles atop the all-time list. ALSO READ: Tennis: 'Whoever I get to face, it doesn't make a difference...': Novak Djokovic on defending Wimbledon crown "I don't know how does he do it," Medvedev told reporters. "I think if I saw it right, Novak is almost 50%. I think I saw he played 70 majors and 35 (34) he was in the final. I don't know how it is possible. He doesn't have bad days? "Actually, he does, like everybody. Even on these bad days, he manages to beat the opponent. It's actually tough because it's one against one. Both of them want to win. "I don't know how he's doing it. That's why he's for me the greatest in the history of tennis. But this is basically, of course, debatable." 'I want continue playing against him...' Having also won the Australian Open at the start of the year, Djokovic is looking to keep alive his hopes of a calendar year Grand Slam - winning all four majors in a single year. Medvedev famously beat Djokovic in the 2021 U.S. Open final to deny the world number two the feat at the final hurdle. "To be able to beat him when he was going for a Grand Slam, maybe he was a little bit tighter than usual, but I played an amazing match," Medvedev said. "This gives me even more pride that I was able to do it, given what he continued to do after this. "I'm just happy I was able to do it. I don't want to stop. I want to try to continue to play against him again in finals, or against anyone else. That's what I didn't manage to do since some time." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Wimbledon: 'For me he is the greatest in history of Tennis': Daniil Medvedev hails Slams leader Novak Djokovic

<p>Three-time Grand Slam winner Andy Murray is gearing up for Wimbledon 2023 edition. The veteran's career has been marred with injury concerns. Before he decides to call it quits, Murray will be eager to add more titles to his cabinet. Recently, the Brit spoke at length on his retirement plans and revealed that he wants to sign off on his 'own terms'.</p>

<p>Speaking to Sky Sports, the 36-year-old said that he is focused on making the most of the opportunities in the last phase of his professional career. In 2018, he underwent hip surgery which kept him out of action for almost the whole season. However, now he wants to remain injury free and compete hard till he decides to step aside. Murray revealed that he plans to 'keep playing a bit longer' but hopes no big injury derails his progress.</p>

<h2>Another injury would mean the end for me: Murray</h2>

<p>Murray said, “I hope not, but you never know. It's why athletes need to make the most of it while they're still able to because if I was to have another big injury or if something happened to the metal hip, that would be me finished. I wouldn't try to come back from another operation or major surgery again so I want to keep playing a bit longer."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/partied-all-night-and-scored-250-next-day-ishant-shares-unheard-tale-of-kohli-lauds-his-transformation-608843">Partied all night and scored 250 next day: Ishant shares unheard tale of Kohli, lauds his transformation</a></strong></p>

<p>The two-time Wimbledon winner made it clear that he doesn't want to retire after this year's edition at the All England Club. "I know it's not going to be going on forever, but I have an idea of when I would like to finish and it's not this year's Wimbledon. I don't know exactly which tournament it would be or where it will be. I just have an idea of how much longer I would like to play for and I don't want to put myself in a position like before I had the operation."</p>

<p>“I want to finish on my own terms. I want to finish on the court where I feel I can still do myself justice and playing at a really high level. I definitely feel I can do that for a couple more years,”&nbsp;Murray concluded.</p>

<p>Murray occupies the 39th spot in the latest ATP rankings and&nbsp;recently emerged on top to claim&nbsp;the Nottingham Open title before facing a first-round&nbsp;exit&nbsp;at the Queen’s Club Championships. Only time will tell how far will he go in the forthcoming Wimbledon, which starts on July 3.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Three-time Grand Slam winner Andy Murray is gearing up for Wimbledon 2023 edition. The veteran's career has been marred with injury concerns. Before he decides to call it quits, Murray will be eager to add more titles to his cabinet.

Three-time Grand Slam winner Andy Murray is gearing up for Wimbledon 2023 edition. The veteran's career has been marred with injury concerns. Before he decides to call it quits, Murray will be eager to add more titles to his cabinet. Recently, the Brit spoke at length on his retirement plans and revealed that he wants to sign off on his 'own terms'. Speaking to Sky Sports, the 36-year-old said that he is focused on making the most of the opportunities in the last phase of his professional career. In 2018, he underwent hip surgery which kept him out of action for almost the whole season. However, now he wants to remain injury free and compete hard till he decides to step aside. Murray revealed that he plans to 'keep playing a bit longer' but hopes no big injury derails his progress. Another injury would mean the end for me: Murray Murray said, “I hope not, but you never know. It's why athletes need to make the most of it while they're still able to because if I was to have another big injury or if something happened to the metal hip, that would be me finished. I wouldn't try to come back from another operation or major surgery again so I want to keep playing a bit longer." Also Read: Partied all night and scored 250 next day: Ishant shares unheard tale of Kohli, lauds his transformation The two-time Wimbledon winner made it clear that he doesn't want to retire after this year's edition at the All England Club. "I know it's not going to be going on forever, but I have an idea of when I would like to finish and it's not this year's Wimbledon. I don't know exactly which tournament it would be or where it will be. I just have an idea of how much longer I would like to play for and I don't want to put myself in a position like before I had the operation." “I want to finish on my own terms. I want to finish on the court where I feel I can still do myself justice and playing at a really high level. I definitely feel I can do that for a couple more years,” Murray concluded. Murray occupies the 39th spot in the latest ATP rankings and recently emerged on top to claim the Nottingham Open title before facing a first-round exit at the Queen’s Club Championships. Only time will tell how far will he go in the forthcoming Wimbledon, which starts on July 3. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Tennis: 'I want to finish on own terms' - Andy Murray on retirement plans ahead of Wimbledon 2023

<p>Princess of Wales Kate Middleton took part in a friendly match against legendary tennis player Roger Federer at Wimbledon on Sunday. She paid a visit to the training location of the ball boys and girls for Wimbledon. Kate even managed to collect a point against the Swiss maestro during the doubles game. She played a passing shot to clinch the point. “I think it was on the line, amazing,” Federer was heard saying in a video shared by the Wimbledon organisers. The official Instagram handle of Wimbledon also posted multiple photos in which both Federer and Kate can be seen featuring in the doubles game. “The Wimbledon Ball Boys and Girls play a pivotal role in The Championships. We went to visit them on a day’s training with Roger Federer,” the caption read.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Ct6ZuAutoGX/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Ct6ZuAutoGX/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Ct6ZuAutoGX/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Ct6ZuAutoGX/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Wimbledon (@wimbledon)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/l6K3G-gCYvk" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Interaction with ball boys and girls</strong></h2>

<p>During their visit, Kate Middleton and Roger Federer also interacted with the ball boys and ball girls at the Wimbledon. A ball girl named Mollie can be seen in the video showing Kate how to stand on the sidelines of the court. She also taught the Princess of Wales how to pass the tennis ball to a player with a straight arm.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-lionel-messis-bombshell-revelation-about-fractured-relationship-with-psg-fans-read-608692">Football: Lionel Messi's BOMBSHELL revelation about 'fractured' relationship with PSG fans | READ</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Huge appreciation</strong></h2>

<p>Kate Middleton and Roger Federer also interacted with the coaches and trainers with the teenagers at Wimbledon’s facility. Wimbledon Tournament Director Jamie Baker also showed them how hard training the ball boys and ball girls go through. Kate, the royal patron of the All England Lawn Tennis Club, hailed the training of the teenagers and credited them for the successful organization of the tournament. “To see the training and the dedication and the amount of time that is put into the training and making sure this goes well on the day for the champions who are playing at Wimbledon. Yeah, it’s incredible to see it behind the scenes,” she said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nz-captain-kane-williamson-opens-up-on-knee-injury-chances-of-featuring-in-odi-world-cup-608750">NZ captain Kane Williamson opens up on knee injury, chances of featuring in ODI World Cup</a></strong></p>

<p>This year’s Wimbledon is set to start from July 3. Current world no.1 and defending champion Novak Djokovic will be aiming to touch Roger Federer’s record of winning his eighth Wimbledon title this time. Federer won his eighth and final Wimbledon title in 2017. The Swiss maestro retired from professional tennis in September last year.</p>


The official Instagram handle of Wimbledon posted a video in which both Roger Federer and Kate Middleton can be seen playing a game of tennis. Kate played a passing shot to clinch a point against the legendary tennis player.

Princess of Wales Kate Middleton took part in a friendly match against legendary tennis player Roger Federer at Wimbledon on Sunday. She paid a visit to the training location of the ball boys and girls for Wimbledon. Kate even managed to collect a point against the Swiss maestro during the doubles game. She played a passing shot to clinch the point. “I think it was on the line, amazing,” Federer was heard saying in a video shared by the Wimbledon organisers. The official Instagram handle of Wimbledon also posted multiple photos in which both Federer and Kate can be seen featuring in the doubles game. “The Wimbledon Ball Boys and Girls play a pivotal role in The Championships. We went to visit them on a day’s training with Roger Federer,” the caption read. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Wimbledon (@wimbledon) × × Interaction with ball boys and girls During their visit, Kate Middleton and Roger Federer also interacted with the ball boys and ball girls at the Wimbledon. A ball girl named Mollie can be seen in the video showing Kate how to stand on the sidelines of the court. She also taught the Princess of Wales how to pass the tennis ball to a player with a straight arm. Also read: Football: Lionel Messi's BOMBSHELL revelation about 'fractured' relationship with PSG fans | READ Huge appreciation Kate Middleton and Roger Federer also interacted with the coaches and trainers with the teenagers at Wimbledon’s facility. Wimbledon Tournament Director Jamie Baker also showed them how hard training the ball boys and ball girls go through. Kate, the royal patron of the All England Lawn Tennis Club, hailed the training of the teenagers and credited them for the successful organization of the tournament. “To see the training and the dedication and the amount of time that is put into the training and making sure this goes well on the day for the champions who are playing at Wimbledon. Yeah, it’s incredible to see it behind the scenes,” she said. Also read: NZ captain Kane Williamson opens up on knee injury, chances of featuring in ODI World Cup This year’s Wimbledon is set to start from July 3. Current world no.1 and defending champion Novak Djokovic will be aiming to touch Roger Federer’s record of winning his eighth Wimbledon title this time. Federer won his eighth and final Wimbledon title in 2017. The Swiss maestro retired from professional tennis in September last year.

Princess Kate plays tennis with Roger Federer at Wimbledon

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuiduttOpX4OKAz5" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Veteran Roger Federer was the guest of honour on the 30th anniversary of the Halle Open on June 21, Wednesday, while inside OWL Arena, a special ceremony was held to mark his achievement. The ten-time&nbsp;German grass-court ATP 500 event winner also weighed on the GOAT (Greatest of all time) debate following Novak Djokovic’s record-breaking 23 Grand Slam wins at the Roland Garros in Paris lately.</p>

<p>As the tournament commemorated "Roger Federer Day" on the centre court, the 103-time ATP tour-level winner praised Novak for his gigantic achievement but said for as long as Rafael Nadal is around, this debate stays alive.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">𝐑𝐅 is honoured in Halle 🐐<a href="https://twitter.com/ATPHalle?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ATPHalle</a> welcomes back 10-time champion <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RogerFedererDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RogerFedererDay</a>! ❤️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TerraWortmannOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TerraWortmannOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/DDypaGO6op">pic.twitter.com/DDypaGO6op</a></p>
— ATP Tour (@atptour) <a href="https://twitter.com/atptour/status/1671538695134912512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Federer, who retired from professional tennis last September during the Laver Cup, showered praises on Novak, aged 36, for becoming the first male Tennis star to win 23 Grand Slams in Open Era, surpassing Nadal's tally of 22 Slam wins.</p>

<p>And by mentioning Rod Laver’s unique record of him lifting the Wimbledon title at the age of 17 in the same sentence, Roger said, "What is better? Winning Wimbledon at 17 like Becker or Paris at 36 like Novak? I don't know."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bidding-committee-underestimating-2024-olympics-budget-is-now-costing-paris-says-government-report-607215">Bidding committee 'underestimating' 2024 Olympics budget is now costing Paris, says Government report</a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, when asked to share his thoughts on the GOAT debate, Roger, who is widely regarded as the greatest athlete of all time, let alone in Tennis, replied by saying till the time his old foe on the field and a dear friend of his, Rafael Nadal is around, calling Novak the GOAT will not do justice.</p>

<p>"What he has achieved is absolutely gigantic. It could be sufficient. But I think as long as Rafa is still playing, too, you can't answer that definitively yet," Roger added.</p>

<h2>Rogers relishes time spent in Halle</h2>

<p>At Halle, Roger boasts a 69-8 career record, having won in 2003-06, 2008, 2013-15, 2017 and 2019. Upon returning to the event for the first time since hanging his boots, Federer remembered&nbsp;the time spent in this event over the past two decades and cherished&nbsp;his friendship with the Weber family.</p>

<p>“With Halle, we go way back,” said Federer. “I don’t know the first time I ever came here, maybe 22 years ago, and I played 18 years in those years. More than just a partnership, it’s also become a friendship over the years with the Weber family, first Gerhard Weber and then Ralf, who is now the tournament director. So it’s been a wonderful time, obviously also [I had] a lot of success here."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Memories that will last forever. 🫂<br />
<br />
There is only one <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> ✨<a href="https://twitter.com/ATPHalle?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ATPHalle</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TerraWortmannOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TerraWortmannOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/2Yxv02a88p">pic.twitter.com/2Yxv02a88p</a></p>
— ATP Tour (@atptour) <a href="https://twitter.com/atptour/status/1671571179830640666?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>“[There were] great times, good moments spent as well in the second part of my career with the family. My kids would be running around all across the venue, and also the fans. We got to know them all, there’s been a lot of moments for interaction as well. It’s been really good, to be honest, and I always love coming here, so it’s really nice to come back again once I’m retired,” Federer added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>


Veteran Roger Federer was the guest of honour on the 30th anniversary of the Halle Open on June 21, Wednesday, while inside OWL Arena, a special ceremony was held to mark his achievement.

Veteran Roger Federer was the guest of honour on the 30th anniversary of the Halle Open on June 21, Wednesday, while inside OWL Arena, a special ceremony was held to mark his achievement. The ten-time German grass-court ATP 500 event winner also weighed on the GOAT (Greatest of all time) debate following Novak Djokovic’s record-breaking 23 Grand Slam wins at the Roland Garros in Paris lately. As the tournament commemorated "Roger Federer Day" on the centre court, the 103-time ATP tour-level winner praised Novak for his gigantic achievement but said for as long as Rafael Nadal is around, this debate stays alive. 𝐑𝐅 is honoured in Halle 🐐@ATPHalle welcomes back 10-time champion @rogerfederer on #RogerFedererDay! ❤️#TerraWortmannOpen pic.twitter.com/DDypaGO6op — ATP Tour (@atptour) June 21, 2023 × Federer, who retired from professional tennis last September during the Laver Cup, showered praises on Novak, aged 36, for becoming the first male Tennis star to win 23 Grand Slams in Open Era, surpassing Nadal's tally of 22 Slam wins. And by mentioning Rod Laver’s unique record of him lifting the Wimbledon title at the age of 17 in the same sentence, Roger said, "What is better? Winning Wimbledon at 17 like Becker or Paris at 36 like Novak? I don't know." ALSO READ: Bidding committee 'underestimating' 2024 Olympics budget is now costing Paris, says Government report Meanwhile, when asked to share his thoughts on the GOAT debate, Roger, who is widely regarded as the greatest athlete of all time, let alone in Tennis, replied by saying till the time his old foe on the field and a dear friend of his, Rafael Nadal is around, calling Novak the GOAT will not do justice. "What he has achieved is absolutely gigantic. It could be sufficient. But I think as long as Rafa is still playing, too, you can't answer that definitively yet," Roger added. Rogers relishes time spent in Halle At Halle, Roger boasts a 69-8 career record, having won in 2003-06, 2008, 2013-15, 2017 and 2019. Upon returning to the event for the first time since hanging his boots, Federer remembered the time spent in this event over the past two decades and cherished his friendship with the Weber family. “With Halle, we go way back,” said Federer. “I don’t know the first time I ever came here, maybe 22 years ago, and I played 18 years in those years. More than just a partnership, it’s also become a friendship over the years with the Weber family, first Gerhard Weber and then Ralf, who is now the tournament director. So it’s been a wonderful time, obviously also [I had] a lot of success here." Memories that will last forever. 🫂 There is only one @rogerfederer ✨@ATPHalle | #TerraWortmannOpen pic.twitter.com/2Yxv02a88p — ATP Tour (@atptour) June 21, 2023 × “[There were] great times, good moments spent as well in the second part of my career with the family. My kids would be running around all across the venue, and also the fans. We got to know them all, there’s been a lot of moments for interaction as well. It’s been really good, to be honest, and I always love coming here, so it’s really nice to come back again once I’m retired,” Federer added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Roger Federer weighs in on GOAT debate, says 'what Novak has achieved is gigantic but till Nadal is around...'

<p>Rafael Nadal has been out of action for quite some time. He is nursing a hip injury which has already kept him out of many tournaments, including the just-concluded Miami Open in the run-up to this year's French Open. The Roland Garros 2023 is just a few weeks away and the Spaniard is running against time to recover fully from his hip injury. Ahead of the French Open, Nadal's longtime rival and good friend Roger Federer feels 'it will be brutal for tennis' if the 14-time French Open champion does not turn up for the showpiece event in Paris, France.</p>

<p>"It would be brutal, it would be tough for&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;if Rafa isn't going to be there," Federer, a 20-time Grand Slam winner, told Sky Sports on Sunday (May 07) at Formula One's Miami Grand Prix. He further asserted, "I still hope so, I saw he pulled out of Rome so I wish him the best."</p>

<p>Federer added, "Obviously Novak (Djokovic) hasn't been playing that much so I hope he's going to be strong as well and then all the young guys coming through as well." The former world number one retired from tennis last year in mid-September.</p>

<p>In April, Nadal, the 22-time Grand Slam winner, took to his official Twitter handle to share a video where he announced, "Hello everyone. It's been a while since I communicated directly with you. It has been a difficult few weeks and months. As you know I suffered a major injury in Australia, at the Psoas. Initially it had to be a six to eight week recovery period and we are now on fourteen. The reality is that the situation is not what we would have expected. All medical indications have been followed, but the evolution has not been what they initially told us."</p>

<p>"We find ourselves in a difficult situation. The weeks are passing and I had the illusion of being able to play in tournaments that are the most important in my career such as Monte Carlo, Barcelona, Madrid, Rome, Roland Garros and for the moment I have missed Monte Carlo and Barcelona. I will not be able to be in Madrid unfortunately. The injury still hasn't healed and I can't work out what I need to to compete. I was training, but now a few days ago we decided to change course a bit, do another treatment and see if things improve to try to get to what comes next. I can't give deadlines because if I knew I would tell you but I don't know. This is how things are now."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-pulls-out-of-madrid-open-shares-statement-on-injury-roland-garros-participation-doubtful-584376">Rafael Nadal pulls out of Madrid Open, shares statement on injury; Roland Garros participation doubtful</a></strong></p>

<p>Nadal added, "I also want to send a special greeting to all the Madrid and Spanish public because I will have missed the two tournaments that are played here at home. You all know what it means for me to play these tournaments and specifically Madrid that I will not be able to play it with everything it has given me. I have no choice but to try to have the right attitude throughout this time, try to give myself the opportunity to compete in one of the tournaments that remains of the clay season and I have no choice but to work and be with the right mentality.</p>

<p>A very strong hug to all and as soon as I have news, I will inform you. Thank you!", the world number 14 signed off.</p>

<p>While Nadal isn't officially out of the upcoming Roland Garros, he is certainly running against time to recover before the commencement of this year's French Open. The mega event kicks off on May 22.</p>


Rafael Nadal has been out of action for quite some time. He is nursing a hip injury which has already kept him out of many tournaments, including the just-concluded Miami Open in the run-up to this year's French Open.

Rafael Nadal has been out of action for quite some time. He is nursing a hip injury which has already kept him out of many tournaments, including the just-concluded Miami Open in the run-up to this year's French Open. The Roland Garros 2023 is just a few weeks away and the Spaniard is running against time to recover fully from his hip injury. Ahead of the French Open, Nadal's longtime rival and good friend Roger Federer feels 'it will be brutal for tennis' if the 14-time French Open champion does not turn up for the showpiece event in Paris, France. "It would be brutal, it would be tough for tennis if Rafa isn't going to be there," Federer, a 20-time Grand Slam winner, told Sky Sports on Sunday (May 07) at Formula One's Miami Grand Prix. He further asserted, "I still hope so, I saw he pulled out of Rome so I wish him the best." Federer added, "Obviously Novak (Djokovic) hasn't been playing that much so I hope he's going to be strong as well and then all the young guys coming through as well." The former world number one retired from tennis last year in mid-September. In April, Nadal, the 22-time Grand Slam winner, took to his official Twitter handle to share a video where he announced, "Hello everyone. It's been a while since I communicated directly with you. It has been a difficult few weeks and months. As you know I suffered a major injury in Australia, at the Psoas. Initially it had to be a six to eight week recovery period and we are now on fourteen. The reality is that the situation is not what we would have expected. All medical indications have been followed, but the evolution has not been what they initially told us." "We find ourselves in a difficult situation. The weeks are passing and I had the illusion of being able to play in tournaments that are the most important in my career such as Monte Carlo, Barcelona, Madrid, Rome, Roland Garros and for the moment I have missed Monte Carlo and Barcelona. I will not be able to be in Madrid unfortunately. The injury still hasn't healed and I can't work out what I need to to compete. I was training, but now a few days ago we decided to change course a bit, do another treatment and see if things improve to try to get to what comes next. I can't give deadlines because if I knew I would tell you but I don't know. This is how things are now." Also Read: Rafael Nadal pulls out of Madrid Open, shares statement on injury; Roland Garros participation doubtful Nadal added, "I also want to send a special greeting to all the Madrid and Spanish public because I will have missed the two tournaments that are played here at home. You all know what it means for me to play these tournaments and specifically Madrid that I will not be able to play it with everything it has given me. I have no choice but to try to have the right attitude throughout this time, try to give myself the opportunity to compete in one of the tournaments that remains of the clay season and I have no choice but to work and be with the right mentality. A very strong hug to all and as soon as I have news, I will inform you. Thank you!", the world number 14 signed off. While Nadal isn't officially out of the upcoming Roland Garros, he is certainly running against time to recover before the commencement of this year's French Open. The mega event kicks off on May 22.

Tennis: It would be brutal for tennis if Rafael Nadal misses French Open 2023, says Roger Federer

<p>Tennis icon and legend Roger Federer has penned a heartfelt letter to football great Lionel Messi after being named the among100 most influential people in the world in 2023. Messi, who led Argentina to the 2022 FIFA World Cup victory was applauded by the 20-time Grand Slam champion, who hung his racquet in the September of last year.</p>

<p>"Lionel Messi’s goal-scoring records and championship wins need no recounting here. What stands out to me about Messi, 35, is his consistent greatness over so many years. This is so difficult to achieve, and then maintain. He dribbles like a magician, and his angular passes are works of art. His awareness and anticipation are almost beyond comprehension,” read Federer’s letter via Mundo Albiceleste.</p>

<p>The former eight-time Wimbledon Champion struggled with injuries towards the end of his career and did not taste Grand Slam success since January 2018 when he won the Australian Open. Highlighting the burden on an athlete’s career, Federer was full of praise for the Paris Saint-Germain star.</p>

<p>“My career has just come to an end. I now realize how much weight we athletes carry. But in our daily lives, we don’t even realize it. For a football player like Messi, that weight likely feels more massive, as he represents both a world-renowned club and a very passionate country. Argentina’s World Cup victory was magnificent. Millions of fans&nbsp;taking to the streets of Buenos Aires to celebrate was an amazing moment in sports, witnessed around the world. Even those who don’t follow football must have realized the true impact of the world’s most popular game."</p>

<p>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-r-ashwin-fined-25-percent-of-match-fees-after-rrs-narrow-win-over-csk-heres-why-582153">IPL 2023: R Ashwin fined 25% of match fees after RR's narrow win over CSK! Here's why</a></p>

<p>Considered by many as the greatest tennis player of all time, Federer won an unprecedented eight Wimbledon titles along with six Australian Open titles, five US Open titles and a solitary French Open title in 2009. He had idolised other football greats in Diego Maradona and Gabriel Batistuta before Messi became his modern-day favourite.</p>

<p>“Growing up, Diego Maradona and Gabriel Batistuta were my favorite Argentine players. I was lucky enough to meet both of them. They inspired me. Now Messi can inspire future generations. I can only hope we get to see his unique creativity and artistry for a little bit longer. Don’t blink too often as Messi performs on the pitch. You may miss something incredible from the man of the moment."</p>

<p>While Federer is no longer part of the ATP circuit, Messi continues to play his brand of football in Europe while he is in the twilight of his career. It is speculated that he could leave Paris Saint-Germain for Barcelona in the summer when his contract expires.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Tennis icon and legend Roger Federer has penned a heartfelt letter to football great Lionel Messi after being named the among100 most influential people in the world in 2023.

Tennis icon and legend Roger Federer has penned a heartfelt letter to football great Lionel Messi after being named the among100 most influential people in the world in 2023. Messi, who led Argentina to the 2022 FIFA World Cup victory was applauded by the 20-time Grand Slam champion, who hung his racquet in the September of last year. "Lionel Messi’s goal-scoring records and championship wins need no recounting here. What stands out to me about Messi, 35, is his consistent greatness over so many years. This is so difficult to achieve, and then maintain. He dribbles like a magician, and his angular passes are works of art. His awareness and anticipation are almost beyond comprehension,” read Federer’s letter via Mundo Albiceleste. The former eight-time Wimbledon Champion struggled with injuries towards the end of his career and did not taste Grand Slam success since January 2018 when he won the Australian Open. Highlighting the burden on an athlete’s career, Federer was full of praise for the Paris Saint-Germain star. “My career has just come to an end. I now realize how much weight we athletes carry. But in our daily lives, we don’t even realize it. For a football player like Messi, that weight likely feels more massive, as he represents both a world-renowned club and a very passionate country. Argentina’s World Cup victory was magnificent. Millions of fans taking to the streets of Buenos Aires to celebrate was an amazing moment in sports, witnessed around the world. Even those who don’t follow football must have realized the true impact of the world’s most popular game." ALSO READ | IPL 2023: R Ashwin fined 25% of match fees after RR's narrow win over CSK! Here's why Considered by many as the greatest tennis player of all time, Federer won an unprecedented eight Wimbledon titles along with six Australian Open titles, five US Open titles and a solitary French Open title in 2009. He had idolised other football greats in Diego Maradona and Gabriel Batistuta before Messi became his modern-day favourite. “Growing up, Diego Maradona and Gabriel Batistuta were my favorite Argentine players. I was lucky enough to meet both of them. They inspired me. Now Messi can inspire future generations. I can only hope we get to see his unique creativity and artistry for a little bit longer. Don’t blink too often as Messi performs on the pitch. You may miss something incredible from the man of the moment." While Federer is no longer part of the ATP circuit, Messi continues to play his brand of football in Europe while he is in the twilight of his career. It is speculated that he could leave Paris Saint-Germain for Barcelona in the summer when his contract expires. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Thank you, Leo' - Roger Federer pens heartfelt tribute to Messi named among 100 most influential people

Roger Federer won 20 grand slam titles, Rafael Nadal won 22 Grand Slam title and Novak Djokovic just won his 22nd Grand Slam title in Australia in January. Federer has retired, Nadal is constantly struggling with injuries and Djokovic is on a 20 match unbeaten run so, is this the year where he ends the goat debate?

Is this the year Novak Djokovic ends the G.O.A.T debate?

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidpuiGUjigdA1K" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Novak Djokovic was at his flawless best yet again as he served a masterclass to defeat fifth seed Andrey Rublev 6-1 6-2 6-4 and advance to the semi-finals of the Australian Open.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Djokovic, with his heavily strapped thigh, took to the court as a man possessed. From the first set, the Serbian played with authority and targeted Rublev's rather weak backhand. He broke early at 3-1 and did not look back from thereon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russian showed flashes of brilliance that dug him out of a hole in the previous round against Danish teenager Holger Rune but the class of Djokovic simply proved too overpowering for him.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/djokovic-cant-forget-australian-deportation-but-wants-to-move-on-547629"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Djokovic can't forget Australian deportation but wants to move on</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/djokovic-cant-forget-australian-deportation-but-wants-to-move-on-547629/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>In the second set, Djokovic found himself in a minor spot of bother as he was forced to save a breakpoint. However, the nine-time champion at the Rod Laver Arena used his full experience to not only save the point but take the set as well.</p>

<p>Afterwards, he let out a huge roar, indicating his strong desire to go the distance yet again.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Devoid of ideas and energy, Rublev somehow managed to stay in the game in the third set for the major part, before falling apart.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Andrey is a great opponent, great player. I have tons of respect for him, one of the biggest forehands, quickest players on the tour," said Djokovic after the match.</p>

<p>"I knew what the game plan was and it was important that I found my best tennis." &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-djokovic-completes-de-minaur-demolition-to-storm-into-the-quarter-final-555149"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Australian Open: Djokovic completes De Minaur demolition to storm into the quarter-final</strong></a></p>

<p>With the quarter-final win, Djokovic is 26 games unbeaten in the tournament, with the streak stretching back to 2018. He missed the last tournament after being deported, otherwise, the record could have been far more intimidating.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Serb has set up a last-four clash with American Tommy Paul. It will be his 10th semifinal appearance at Melbourne Park, a record only bettered by Roger Federer (15) and Jack Crawford (11).&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Novak Djokovic was at his flawless best yet again as he served a masterclass to defeat fifth seed Andrey Rublev 6-1 6-2 6-4 and advance to the semi-finals of the Australian Open.

Novak Djokovic was at his flawless best yet again as he served a masterclass to defeat fifth seed Andrey Rublev 6-1 6-2 6-4 and advance to the semi-finals of the Australian Open. Djokovic, with his heavily strapped thigh, took to the court as a man possessed. From the first set, the Serbian played with authority and targeted Rublev's rather weak backhand. He broke early at 3-1 and did not look back from thereon. The Russian showed flashes of brilliance that dug him out of a hole in the previous round against Danish teenager Holger Rune but the class of Djokovic simply proved too overpowering for him. WATCH | Djokovic can't forget Australian deportation but wants to move on In the second set, Djokovic found himself in a minor spot of bother as he was forced to save a breakpoint. However, the nine-time champion at the Rod Laver Arena used his full experience to not only save the point but take the set as well. Afterwards, he let out a huge roar, indicating his strong desire to go the distance yet again. Devoid of ideas and energy, Rublev somehow managed to stay in the game in the third set for the major part, before falling apart. "Andrey is a great opponent, great player. I have tons of respect for him, one of the biggest forehands, quickest players on the tour," said Djokovic after the match. "I knew what the game plan was and it was important that I found my best tennis." Read more: Australian Open: Djokovic completes De Minaur demolition to storm into the quarter-final With the quarter-final win, Djokovic is 26 games unbeaten in the tournament, with the streak stretching back to 2018. He missed the last tournament after being deported, otherwise, the record could have been far more intimidating. The Serb has set up a last-four clash with American Tommy Paul. It will be his 10th semifinal appearance at Melbourne Park, a record only bettered by Roger Federer (15) and Jack Crawford (11). (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Australian Open: Novak Djokovic crushes Andrey Rublev, marches to the semi-finals

<p>The late Karl Lagerfeld will be honoured at the 2023 Met Gala in New York which will take place on May 1. Lagerfeld, a pioneer in the fashion industry, died in 2019 at the age of 85. He had worked at Chanel, Fendi and Chloe in his career. The Met Gala will have Michaela Coel, Penélope Cruz, Roger Federer, Dua Lipa and Anna Wintour as the co-chairs of the event. The theme of this year's Gala will be 'Karl Lagerfeld: A line of Beauty'. It was announced on Wednesday.<br />
<br />
The Met's costume institute will gather some 150 of his creations to explore his "stylistic language." Lagerfeld’s original sketches will also be on display at the event.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The theme was first announced by Vogue- which organises the event every year- in September 2022 and was announced with mixed reactions from both fans and stars including Jameela Jamil.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
"This man… was indeed, supremely talented, but used his platform in such a distinctly hateful way, mostly towards women, so repeatedly and up until the last years of his life, showing no remorse, offering no atonement, no apology, no help to groups he attacked… there was no explanation for his cruel outbursts," Jamil wrote in part on Instagram at the time.<br />
<br />
The actress included in her Instagram post screenshots of several comments in which Lagerfeld gave controversial quotes.</p>

<p><strong>About Met Gala</strong><br />
<br />
Considered as fashion's biggest night, the event hosts celebrities from all walks of life each year at Metropolitan Museum in New York. The high-profile fashion event began in 1948 and was initially a society midnight supper. In 70 years, the event has transformed to a high-profile fashion event where almost all designers aim to showcase their designs at the glittering red carpet- often making a statement or two with their creations.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Not to forget, the Met Gala is still a fundraiser. In 2021, the event reportedly had earned more than a whopping $16.4 million for Met's Costume Institute.&nbsp;</p>


The late Karl Lagerfeld will be honoured at the 2023 Met Gala in New York which will take place on May 1. Lagerfeld, a pioneer in the fashion industry, died in 2019 at the age of 85.

The late Karl Lagerfeld will be honoured at the 2023 Met Gala in New York which will take place on May 1. Lagerfeld, a pioneer in the fashion industry, died in 2019 at the age of 85. He had worked at Chanel, Fendi and Chloe in his career. The Met Gala will have Michaela Coel, Penélope Cruz, Roger Federer, Dua Lipa and Anna Wintour as the co-chairs of the event. The theme of this year's Gala will be 'Karl Lagerfeld: A line of Beauty'. It was announced on Wednesday. The Met's costume institute will gather some 150 of his creations to explore his "stylistic language." Lagerfeld’s original sketches will also be on display at the event. The theme was first announced by Vogue- which organises the event every year- in September 2022 and was announced with mixed reactions from both fans and stars including Jameela Jamil. "This man… was indeed, supremely talented, but used his platform in such a distinctly hateful way, mostly towards women, so repeatedly and up until the last years of his life, showing no remorse, offering no atonement, no apology, no help to groups he attacked… there was no explanation for his cruel outbursts," Jamil wrote in part on Instagram at the time. The actress included in her Instagram post screenshots of several comments in which Lagerfeld gave controversial quotes. About Met Gala Considered as fashion's biggest night, the event hosts celebrities from all walks of life each year at Metropolitan Museum in New York. The high-profile fashion event began in 1948 and was initially a society midnight supper. In 70 years, the event has transformed to a high-profile fashion event where almost all designers aim to showcase their designs at the glittering red carpet- often making a statement or two with their creations. Not to forget, the Met Gala is still a fundraiser. In 2021, the event reportedly had earned more than a whopping $16.4 million for Met's Costume Institute.

Penelope Cruz, Roger Federer to co-chair Karl Lagerfeld themed 2023 Met Gala

<p>2022 was an action-packed season for tennis lovers. It started with Novak Djokovic's Covid vaccination row at the Australian Open before Rafael Nadal won the French Open. The likes of Elena Rybakina and Iga Swiatek also tasted success<b>&nbsp;</b>in women's singles.<b>&nbsp;</b>While the year saw the rise of Carlos Alcaraz -- winning the US Open -- it was also a witness to the retirement of Roger Federer, Serena Williams, Ashleigh Barty, etc. After lots that took place in 2022, a&nbsp;new tennis season has already kicked off and the games are coming thick and fast in 2023; with the Tata Open (in Pune) and the Australian Open which will commence on January 16.</p>

<p>Talking about the Tata Open, the reigning US Open champions Rajeev Ram and Joe Salisbury are currently plying their trade at the event, being held in&nbsp;Pune. The pair have been a force to reckon with in recent years and will like to remain consistent and go a step ahead in 2023. After a Round of 16 victory in the Tata Open, where Rajeev-Joe went past Sebastian Baez-Luis David Martinez 6-3, 7-6 (7-1), Rajeev had an exclusive interaction with WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo. The American player spoke at length on the emergence of young talents, the retirement of stalwarts and on Novak Djokovic ahead of the Australian Open. <strong>Excerpts:</strong></p>

<p><strong>Rajeev a very happy new year to you and considering your Indian roots this must be a memorable experience returning to India to play and that too as the top seed.</strong></p>

<p>Happy New Year to you as well. I've been in India for quite some time, since 2016. Covid had a major role to play in it. Happy to be in Pune. Never been here so it is good.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Tennis saw three high-profile retirements in 2022 with Roger Federer, Serena Williams and before them Ashleigh Barty</strong><strong>. with Rafael Nadal one is not sure how much more punishment that battered body can take...Nadal and Djokovic did win three of the four slams last year but has the baton been officially passed?</strong></p>

<p>I don't think it is really past yet. I honestly believe if Novak was playing in Australia, Wimbledon had points and if he was allowed to play US Open, he would have been the No. 1 ranked player to date. He showed his class again in the ATP Tour finals. He played so little last year but still was able to keep such a high ranking. It is getting there (for the young guns) but I don't think Djokovic is ready to give&nbsp;up just yet.</p>

<p><strong>Obviously, when we factor in the 2022 season we have to remember that Djokovic didn't play as much as he would have liked. Let's leave his vaccination beliefs aside and focus only on the phenomenal player that he is. You saw him at the tour finals and do you get the feeling that he is going to carry a lot of hurt into the Australian Open and is the player to beat?</strong></p>

<p>He's the player to beat. I'm guessing he has won 8-9 times there.&nbsp;He is so difficult on that surface&nbsp;and everybody will agree that he is the guy to beat there for sure, even if his ranking is not No 1.</p>

<p><strong>A lot of players will also head into the Aus open thinking hang on, we were the next gen but it's Alcaraz who has seized the initiative...the likes of Medvedev, Tsitsipas, Zverev face a defining season don't you think?</strong></p>

<p>I think you have seen this generation of Federer, Nadal, Murray and Djokovic have eaten up a few generations. I don't think Medvedev, Tsitsipas and the likes are done by any stretch but I think they know they have such young talents on their heels and that will make for a super competitive 4-5 years when Djokovic and Nadal did. Don't think it will be like the last few years where only a few guys have dominated. I think it will be very competitive and refreshing in that sense.</p>

<p><strong>Before I close this, what will be a good season for you personally, something you would be happy with coming December this year?</strong></p>

<p>Winning slams always make a great year. We have managed to do that for the last 2-3 years in a row so hopefully, that's a start. Becoming the No. 1 team in the world is something we haven't achieved. We have been No. 2 for quite some time. Those two things are at the top of the list. Everything else will follow through.</p>


2022 was an action-packed season for tennis lovers. It started with Novak Djokovic's Covid vaccination row at the Australian Open before Rafael Nadal won the French Open.

2022 was an action-packed season for tennis lovers. It started with Novak Djokovic's Covid vaccination row at the Australian Open before Rafael Nadal won the French Open. The likes of Elena Rybakina and Iga Swiatek also tasted success in women's singles. While the year saw the rise of Carlos Alcaraz -- winning the US Open -- it was also a witness to the retirement of Roger Federer, Serena Williams, Ashleigh Barty, etc. After lots that took place in 2022, a new tennis season has already kicked off and the games are coming thick and fast in 2023; with the Tata Open (in Pune) and the Australian Open which will commence on January 16. Talking about the Tata Open, the reigning US Open champions Rajeev Ram and Joe Salisbury are currently plying their trade at the event, being held in Pune. The pair have been a force to reckon with in recent years and will like to remain consistent and go a step ahead in 2023. After a Round of 16 victory in the Tata Open, where Rajeev-Joe went past Sebastian Baez-Luis David Martinez 6-3, 7-6 (7-1), Rajeev had an exclusive interaction with WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo. The American player spoke at length on the emergence of young talents, the retirement of stalwarts and on Novak Djokovic ahead of the Australian Open. Excerpts: Rajeev a very happy new year to you and considering your Indian roots this must be a memorable experience returning to India to play and that too as the top seed. Happy New Year to you as well. I've been in India for quite some time, since 2016. Covid had a major role to play in it. Happy to be in Pune. Never been here so it is good. Tennis saw three high-profile retirements in 2022 with Roger Federer, Serena Williams and before them Ashleigh Barty. with Rafael Nadal one is not sure how much more punishment that battered body can take...Nadal and Djokovic did win three of the four slams last year but has the baton been officially passed? I don't think it is really past yet. I honestly believe if Novak was playing in Australia, Wimbledon had points and if he was allowed to play US Open, he would have been the No. 1 ranked player to date. He showed his class again in the ATP Tour finals. He played so little last year but still was able to keep such a high ranking. It is getting there (for the young guns) but I don't think Djokovic is ready to give up just yet. Obviously, when we factor in the 2022 season we have to remember that Djokovic didn't play as much as he would have liked. Let's leave his vaccination beliefs aside and focus only on the phenomenal player that he is. You saw him at the tour finals and do you get the feeling that he is going to carry a lot of hurt into the Australian Open and is the player to beat? He's the player to beat. I'm guessing he has won 8-9 times there. He is so difficult on that surface and everybody will agree that he is the guy to beat there for sure, even if his ranking is not No 1. A lot of players will also head into the Aus open thinking hang on, we were the next gen but it's Alcaraz who has seized the initiative...the likes of Medvedev, Tsitsipas, Zverev face a defining season don't you think? I think you have seen this generation of Federer, Nadal, Murray and Djokovic have eaten up a few generations. I don't think Medvedev, Tsitsipas and the likes are done by any stretch but I think they know they have such young talents on their heels and that will make for a super competitive 4-5 years when Djokovic and Nadal did. Don't think it will be like the last few years where only a few guys have dominated. I think it will be very competitive and refreshing in that sense. Before I close this, what will be a good season for you personally, something you would be happy with coming December this year? Winning slams always make a great year. We have managed to do that for the last 2-3 years in a row so hopefully, that's a start. Becoming the No. 1 team in the world is something we haven't achieved. We have been No. 2 for quite some time. Those two things are at the top of the list. Everything else will follow through.

Exclusive: Even if Novak Djokovic is not No 1, he's the guy to beat, says Rajeev Ram ahead of Aus Open

<p>What a year 2022 has been! A lot was there for everyone to relish, cherish and even celebrate, while we also had some of the toughest moments coming our way as well. Across sports, there have been events that made headlines, some for the right reason, some for something else.</p>

<p>As we near the end of 2022, let’s have a look at the top 5 events that made headlines from the world of sports –</p>

<p><strong>5) Cricket - T20 World Cup: India beat Pakistan in a last-over thriller at MCG</strong></p>

<p>What is mightier in cricket than an India-Pakistan game. Probably a very few things. Two super giants of world cricket collided for the third time this year at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) for their World T20 opener in October this year.</p>

<p>While Pakistan has had the upper hand heading into this game considering the result from the last meeting (during Asia Cup in Dubai) where they beat India, the Men in Blue were upbeat for a challenge on a bigger stage.</p>

<p>Batting first, Pakistan couldn’t set themselves in and lost early wickets inside the Powerplay. While Iftikhar Ahmed played a counter-attacking knock later on, hitting a fifty, he didn’t receive much support from the other end; as a result, Pakistan team could just manage 159-8.</p>

<p>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yearender-2022-kylian-mbappe-establishes-himself-as-rightful-heir-to-goat-crown-544600">Yearender 2022: Kylian Mbappe establishes himself as rightful heir to GOAT crown</a></p>

<p>The chase was where the drama all began. Much like Pakistan, the Indian top-order also couldn’t leave an impact, outside of Virat Kohli, who looked a little settle. After India lost 4 wickets inside 7 overs, the pressure mounted on them. Virat and Hardik Pandya then started building a partnership.</p>

<p>Virat got into his groove, smashing Shaheen and even Haris for some incredible sixes and kept India in the game. It was then in the last over that the drama peaked.</p>

<p>An over that almost had everything saw Ravi Ashwin and Kohli helping India win the match on the last ball.</p>

<p>For his marvellous 82* off 53 balls, Virat Kohli was adjudged Man of the Match.</p>

<p><strong>4) Cricket – Australian women’s team win maiden Commonwealth gold medal in T20 format</strong></p>

<p>Cricket had remained a part of the Commonwealth Games in the past but was later removed. Now with the introduction of fast-paced T20 format, it became a little tempting for the decision makers to include this game with this format back into the Games.</p>

<p>This eventually happened and Women’s T20 cricket was introduced for the first time. 8 teams were divided into two groups while India and Pakistan were placed together.</p>

<p>After the hard-fought group games and knockouts, it all came down to the first final in Commonwealth Games, where Australia and India - two powerhouses in women’s cricket, took on each other.</p>

<p>Australia after batting first scored 161 with opener Beth Mooney hitting 61. For the Indian eves, Renuka Singh and Sneh Rana picked two wickets each.</p>

<p>India looked comfortable in their chase; even at one point their scorecard read 118-2 inside 15 overs. However, the tide changed quickly as wickets started to tumble.</p>

<p>Losing the remaining wickets inside 34 runs meant Indian women’s team went down chasing and lost the match by nine runs.</p>

<p>While they stood second, Australian women’s won the maiden gold medal.</p>

<p>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-qatar-2022-may-have-lost-many-battles-but-won-the-war-544566">FIFA World Cup: Qatar 2022 may have lost many battles but won the war</a></p>

<p><strong>3) Olympic gold medallist Neeraj Chopra became first Indian to win gold in Diamond League</strong></p>

<p>After India’s new-poster boy Neeraj Chopra won his maiden Olympic gold medal in javelin throw event at the Tokyo Games 2020, he created history in 2022 as well by winning the gold medal in Diamond League - thus becoming the first-ever Indian to achieve this.</p>

<p>Neeraj, who has surpassed Usain Bolt as the most written-about athlete in 2022, won the gold medal with the best throw of 88.44m in his second attempt. Neeraj, however, didn’t start off well in the finals as his first throw was counted as foul.</p>

<p>While Czech Republic's Jakub Valdejch had the best throw of 84.15m in the first attempt, Neeraj made a stunning comeback in his following throw attaining a distance of 88.44m, which more or less sealed the deal for him.</p>

<p>Neeraj was then crowned the gold medallist.</p>

<p><strong>2) Tennis legend Roger Federer announced retirement from Tennis</strong></p>

<p>Off all the events listed, this broke the most hearts. Tennis great, Switzerland’s Roger Federer announced in 2022 that he is retiring from professional tennis. The 20-time Grand Slam winner on September 15th in a note on his social media handles informed everyone about his decision.</p>

<p>In that note, the 41-year-old wrote, “The Laver Cup next week in London will be my final ATP event. I will play more tennis in the future, of course, but just not in Grand Slams or on the tour.”</p>

<p>Federer had been nursing a knee injury for a long time and cited the same reason for his retirement. The six-time ATP Masters winner didn’t play a competitive match since Wimbledon 2021 where he lost in the quarters to Hubert Hurkacz.</p>

<p>"As many of you know, the past three years have presented me with challenges in the form of injuries and surgeries. I've worked hard to return to full competitive form. But I also know my body's capacities, and limits and its message to me lately have been clear.</p>

<p>"This is a bittersweet decision, because I will miss everything the tour has given me. But at the same time there is so much to celebrate."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wions-fifa-world-cup-2022-best-xi-which-players-made-the-first-team-544527">WION's FIFA World Cup 2022 best XI: Which players made the first team?</a></p>

<p><strong>1) Lionel Messi inspires Argentina to a World Cup victory over France after 36 years</strong></p>

<p>In what is deemed as the greatest-ever World Cup final, Lionel Messi’s Argentina defeated France 4-2 on penalties to lift the coveted trophy. Messi, who with this win has now rendered himself as the GOAT, was the player of the tournament for having three assists and seven goals to his name. For the second time in his career, Messi won the Golden Ball having previously winning it in 2014.</p>

<p>In the final at the Lusail Stadium, Argentina was all over France early on. Not only were they playing an attacking kind of football, Argentina was pressing brilliantly too. Lionel Messi scored the first goal through a penalty and later helped in setting up an assist only for Di Maria to find the back of the net in the 36th minute. With 2-0 up at the halftime, it looked like Argentina’s game to win.</p>

<p>Come the second half, France started showing aggression through their play. The game changed around the 80th minute when France got a penalty and Kylian Mbappe converted it into the first goal for his team. Only one minute later he scored another one, making it 2-2.</p>

<p>In the extra-time, Argentina again took the lead, thanks to a goal from Messi. Just when they thought the game is done and dusted, a penalty was awarded to France and Mbappe made it 3-3, forcing the game to the penalty shootout.</p>

<p>The fate was decided in the penalty shootout. Argentina scored all of their shots while two French players missed their chances.</p>

<p>In the end, Argentina were crowned the world champions after 36 years.</p>


What a year 2022 has been! A lot was there for everyone to relish, cherish and even celebrate, while we also had some of the toughest moments coming our way as well.

What a year 2022 has been! A lot was there for everyone to relish, cherish and even celebrate, while we also had some of the toughest moments coming our way as well. Across sports, there have been events that made headlines, some for the right reason, some for something else. As we near the end of 2022, let’s have a look at the top 5 events that made headlines from the world of sports – 5) Cricket - T20 World Cup: India beat Pakistan in a last-over thriller at MCG What is mightier in cricket than an India-Pakistan game. Probably a very few things. Two super giants of world cricket collided for the third time this year at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) for their World T20 opener in October this year. While Pakistan has had the upper hand heading into this game considering the result from the last meeting (during Asia Cup in Dubai) where they beat India, the Men in Blue were upbeat for a challenge on a bigger stage. Batting first, Pakistan couldn’t set themselves in and lost early wickets inside the Powerplay. While Iftikhar Ahmed played a counter-attacking knock later on, hitting a fifty, he didn’t receive much support from the other end; as a result, Pakistan team could just manage 159-8. ALSO READ: Yearender 2022: Kylian Mbappe establishes himself as rightful heir to GOAT crown The chase was where the drama all began. Much like Pakistan, the Indian top-order also couldn’t leave an impact, outside of Virat Kohli, who looked a little settle. After India lost 4 wickets inside 7 overs, the pressure mounted on them. Virat and Hardik Pandya then started building a partnership. Virat got into his groove, smashing Shaheen and even Haris for some incredible sixes and kept India in the game. It was then in the last over that the drama peaked. An over that almost had everything saw Ravi Ashwin and Kohli helping India win the match on the last ball. For his marvellous 82* off 53 balls, Virat Kohli was adjudged Man of the Match. 4) Cricket – Australian women’s team win maiden Commonwealth gold medal in T20 format Cricket had remained a part of the Commonwealth Games in the past but was later removed. Now with the introduction of fast-paced T20 format, it became a little tempting for the decision makers to include this game with this format back into the Games. This eventually happened and Women’s T20 cricket was introduced for the first time. 8 teams were divided into two groups while India and Pakistan were placed together. After the hard-fought group games and knockouts, it all came down to the first final in Commonwealth Games, where Australia and India - two powerhouses in women’s cricket, took on each other. Australia after batting first scored 161 with opener Beth Mooney hitting 61. For the Indian eves, Renuka Singh and Sneh Rana picked two wickets each. India looked comfortable in their chase; even at one point their scorecard read 118-2 inside 15 overs. However, the tide changed quickly as wickets started to tumble. Losing the remaining wickets inside 34 runs meant Indian women’s team went down chasing and lost the match by nine runs. While they stood second, Australian women’s won the maiden gold medal. ALSO READ: FIFA World Cup: Qatar 2022 may have lost many battles but won the war 3) Olympic gold medallist Neeraj Chopra became first Indian to win gold in Diamond League After India’s new-poster boy Neeraj Chopra won his maiden Olympic gold medal in javelin throw event at the Tokyo Games 2020, he created history in 2022 as well by winning the gold medal in Diamond League - thus becoming the first-ever Indian to achieve this. Neeraj, who has surpassed Usain Bolt as the most written-about athlete in 2022, won the gold medal with the best throw of 88.44m in his second attempt. Neeraj, however, didn’t start off well in the finals as his first throw was counted as foul. While Czech Republic's Jakub Valdejch had the best throw of 84.15m in the first attempt, Neeraj made a stunning comeback in his following throw attaining a distance of 88.44m, which more or less sealed the deal for him. Neeraj was then crowned the gold medallist. 2) Tennis legend Roger Federer announced retirement from Tennis Off all the events listed, this broke the most hearts. Tennis great, Switzerland’s Roger Federer announced in 2022 that he is retiring from professional tennis. The 20-time Grand Slam winner on September 15th in a note on his social media handles informed everyone about his decision. In that note, the 41-year-old wrote, “The Laver Cup next week in London will be my final ATP event. I will play more tennis in the future, of course, but just not in Grand Slams or on the tour.” Federer had been nursing a knee injury for a long time and cited the same reason for his retirement. The six-time ATP Masters winner didn’t play a competitive match since Wimbledon 2021 where he lost in the quarters to Hubert Hurkacz. "As many of you know, the past three years have presented me with challenges in the form of injuries and surgeries. I've worked hard to return to full competitive form. But I also know my body's capacities, and limits and its message to me lately have been clear. "This is a bittersweet decision, because I will miss everything the tour has given me. But at the same time there is so much to celebrate." ALSO READ: WION's FIFA World Cup 2022 best XI: Which players made the first team? 1) Lionel Messi inspires Argentina to a World Cup victory over France after 36 years In what is deemed as the greatest-ever World Cup final, Lionel Messi’s Argentina defeated France 4-2 on penalties to lift the coveted trophy. Messi, who with this win has now rendered himself as the GOAT, was the player of the tournament for having three assists and seven goals to his name. For the second time in his career, Messi won the Golden Ball having previously winning it in 2014. In the final at the Lusail Stadium, Argentina was all over France early on. Not only were they playing an attacking kind of football, Argentina was pressing brilliantly too. Lionel Messi scored the first goal through a penalty and later helped in setting up an assist only for Di Maria to find the back of the net in the 36th minute. With 2-0 up at the halftime, it looked like Argentina’s game to win. Come the second half, France started showing aggression through their play. The game changed around the 80th minute when France got a penalty and Kylian Mbappe converted it into the first goal for his team. Only one minute later he scored another one, making it 2-2. In the extra-time, Argentina again took the lead, thanks to a goal from Messi. Just when they thought the game is done and dusted, a penalty was awarded to France and Mbappe made it 3-3, forcing the game to the penalty shootout. The fate was decided in the penalty shootout. Argentina scored all of their shots while two French players missed their chances. In the end, Argentina were crowned the world champions after 36 years.

Year Ender 2022: From Roger Federer, Neeraj Chopra to Lionel Messi, find out who made headlines this year

<p>Lionel Messi-led Argentina won the FIFA World Cup 2022 final, beating the defending champions France in an epic clash at the Lusail Stadium, Qatar on Sunday (December 18). Having reached the final in style, beating the 2018 edition's runners-up Croatia 3-0, Messi &amp; Co. started off with a bang and were leading 2-0 till the 80th minute before France rode on Kylian Mbappe's twin strikes and levelled the scores to push the game to the extra time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the extra time, Argentina was once again ahead by 3-2, with Messi striking for the second time in the contest before Mbappe's hat-trick pushed the game to the penalty shootout where Argentina ended on top (4-2). After&nbsp;the game, wishes have been pouring in from all corners for Argentina captain Messi. He had already revealed, post the Croatia win, that the Qatar final will be his last World Cup appearance and, hence, he ended his run in the mega event on a glorious note. Hence, many legends have joined in to wish the 35-year-old Messi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Roger Federer, who retired from tennis early this year, took to his official Instagram handle and wrote, "Fairytale stuff Argentina! Time and time again you @leomessi have redefined greatness. It’s a privilege to watch you. Congrats Leo &amp; Special and historic," along with&nbsp;sharing a photo of Messi's famous World Cup trophy kiss. <strong>Here's the post:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CmUeVcQufjw/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CmUeVcQufjw/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CmUeVcQufjw/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CmUeVcQufjw/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Roger Federer (@rogerfederer)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/check-back-with-me-in-7-years-lionel-messis-fans-2015-prediction-goes-viral-after-argentina-win-fifa-wc-544504"><strong>'Check back with me in 7 years' - Lionel Messi's fan's 2015 prediction goes viral after Argentina win FIFA WC</strong></a></p>

<p>At the presentation ceremony, Messi was awarded the Golden Ball and he ended as the second-highest goal-scorer (7) in the tournament with his PSG teammate and French star Mbappe ending with eight (to win the Golden Boot Award). In addition, he made it clear that his international career has not ended and he will continue to play as a 'champion' post the WC win. Hence, he will like to add more titles to his cabinet after ending his WC run on a high.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Messi forced to cover his Argentina shirt</strong></p>

<p>After the splendid win, captain Messi was forced to cover his Argentina shirt with a black and gold robe while being given the World Cup trophy during the presentation ceremony. As he made his way up to the stage, the veteran was handed a black robe by&nbsp;the Emir of Qatar -- also the owner of Messi's French club Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).&nbsp;Just then, the BBC commentator Guy Mowbray declared it "the night the true king of football is coronated". The robe, however, meant that's Messi's blue and white national jersey wasn't on full display while receiving the trophy.</p>

<p>After this, the presenter Gary Lineker said: "Amazing scenes, great pictures from above and great pictures from inside the ground as Argentina win the World Cup for the third time." He added, "It seems a shame, in a way, that they've covered up Messi in his Argentina shirt."</p>


Lionel Messi-led Argentina won the FIFA World Cup 2022 final, beating the defending champions France in an epic clash at the Lusail Stadium, Qatar on Sunday (December 18).

Lionel Messi-led Argentina won the FIFA World Cup 2022 final, beating the defending champions France in an epic clash at the Lusail Stadium, Qatar on Sunday (December 18). Having reached the final in style, beating the 2018 edition's runners-up Croatia 3-0, Messi & Co. started off with a bang and were leading 2-0 till the 80th minute before France rode on Kylian Mbappe's twin strikes and levelled the scores to push the game to the extra time. In the extra time, Argentina was once again ahead by 3-2, with Messi striking for the second time in the contest before Mbappe's hat-trick pushed the game to the penalty shootout where Argentina ended on top (4-2). After the game, wishes have been pouring in from all corners for Argentina captain Messi. He had already revealed, post the Croatia win, that the Qatar final will be his last World Cup appearance and, hence, he ended his run in the mega event on a glorious note. Hence, many legends have joined in to wish the 35-year-old Messi. Roger Federer, who retired from tennis early this year, took to his official Instagram handle and wrote, "Fairytale stuff Argentina! Time and time again you @leomessi have redefined greatness. It’s a privilege to watch you. Congrats Leo & Special and historic," along with sharing a photo of Messi's famous World Cup trophy kiss. Here's the post: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) × Also read: 'Check back with me in 7 years' - Lionel Messi's fan's 2015 prediction goes viral after Argentina win FIFA WC At the presentation ceremony, Messi was awarded the Golden Ball and he ended as the second-highest goal-scorer (7) in the tournament with his PSG teammate and French star Mbappe ending with eight (to win the Golden Boot Award). In addition, he made it clear that his international career has not ended and he will continue to play as a 'champion' post the WC win. Hence, he will like to add more titles to his cabinet after ending his WC run on a high. Messi forced to cover his Argentina shirt After the splendid win, captain Messi was forced to cover his Argentina shirt with a black and gold robe while being given the World Cup trophy during the presentation ceremony. As he made his way up to the stage, the veteran was handed a black robe by the Emir of Qatar -- also the owner of Messi's French club Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). Just then, the BBC commentator Guy Mowbray declared it "the night the true king of football is coronated". The robe, however, meant that's Messi's blue and white national jersey wasn't on full display while receiving the trophy. After this, the presenter Gary Lineker said: "Amazing scenes, great pictures from above and great pictures from inside the ground as Argentina win the World Cup for the third time." He added, "It seems a shame, in a way, that they've covered up Messi in his Argentina shirt."

'You have....' - Roger Federer lauds Lionel Messi with a heartfelt post after Argentina win FIFA World Cup

<p>Roger Federer stunned one and all by retiring in September 2022. The tennis stalwart hadn't played any competitive match since his Wimbledon 2021 quarter-final exit and, hence, his retirement was always on the cards. Being plagued with several injury concerns, the Swiss maestro finally decided to hang his boots; sending his fans into a meltdown. After his retirement announcement, he played his last competitive game in Laver Cup 2022 where he teamed up with longtime rival Rafael Nadal though the duo lost to Frances Tiafoe-Jack Sock.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, the 40-year-old Federer shared a hilarious anecdote during his interaction with&nbsp;Trevor Noah in the latest episode of the Daily Show. During the show, the host asked Federer to spill the beans about the time he was denied entry inside Wimbledon. To this, Federer revealed that he&nbsp;arrived in London to see a doctor following an event in Tokyo, Japan, and then decided to visit&nbsp;the All England Lawn Tennis &amp; Croquet Club (ALTEC) to kill time before his return flight for Switzerland.</p>

<p>Just then, Federer was denied entry at the Wimbledon, at an event which has been dominated by the former world number one throughout his career. He shared, "When you win Wimbledon, you become a member automatically. So, I'm like, "No, I don't have my membership card but I am a member and I'm just wondering where I can get in," and she (secutiry guard) said, "Yeah, but you have to be a member." I was like, "I'm just asking you again where can I get in", and she said, "The other side, but you have to be a member."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">“Former tennis player” Roger Federer ft. Wimbledon 😂🌱 <a href="https://t.co/MqtXgMOgET">pic.twitter.com/MqtXgMOgET</a></p>
— A✨ (@_fazahsn_) <a href="https://twitter.com/_fazahsn_/status/1600716948500668416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Federer asserted, "So, I look at her one last time and I'm so sorry, I couldn't believe and still can't believe I said this and because I still feel bad about it. I'd look at her and say, "I have won this tournament eight times. Please believe me, I am a member!" Federer mentioned that he had to drive to another gate where he was finally recognised by a guard. He added, "When I said I won Wimbledon eight times, for a split second, I wasn't sure if it was eight anymore because I thought it 'was it seven, was it eight? I don't know'. But I said it because I never talk like this."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-was-a-very-federer-recalls-conversation-he-had-with-nadal-while-informing-about-his-retirement-541312">'It was a very...': Federer recalls conversation he had with Nadal while informing about his retirement</a></strong></p>

<p>It is to be noted that&nbsp;Federer has won as many as eight titles at the ALTEC; the most by any player. Novak Djokovic, after his Wimbledon 2022 triumph, is only one behind Federer's tally. Durnig his 24-year-long illustrious career, the Swiss player was regarded as one of the best players in grass-court history.&nbsp;</p>


Roger Federer stunned one and all by retiring in September 2022. The tennis stalwart hadn't played any competitive match since his Wimbledon 2021 quarter-final exit and, hence, his retirement was always on the cards.

Roger Federer stunned one and all by retiring in September 2022. The tennis stalwart hadn't played any competitive match since his Wimbledon 2021 quarter-final exit and, hence, his retirement was always on the cards. Being plagued with several injury concerns, the Swiss maestro finally decided to hang his boots; sending his fans into a meltdown. After his retirement announcement, he played his last competitive game in Laver Cup 2022 where he teamed up with longtime rival Rafael Nadal though the duo lost to Frances Tiafoe-Jack Sock. Recently, the 40-year-old Federer shared a hilarious anecdote during his interaction with Trevor Noah in the latest episode of the Daily Show. During the show, the host asked Federer to spill the beans about the time he was denied entry inside Wimbledon. To this, Federer revealed that he arrived in London to see a doctor following an event in Tokyo, Japan, and then decided to visit the All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club (ALTEC) to kill time before his return flight for Switzerland. Just then, Federer was denied entry at the Wimbledon, at an event which has been dominated by the former world number one throughout his career. He shared, "When you win Wimbledon, you become a member automatically. So, I'm like, "No, I don't have my membership card but I am a member and I'm just wondering where I can get in," and she (secutiry guard) said, "Yeah, but you have to be a member." I was like, "I'm just asking you again where can I get in", and she said, "The other side, but you have to be a member." “Former tennis player” Roger Federer ft. Wimbledon 😂🌱 pic.twitter.com/MqtXgMOgET — A✨ (@_fazahsn_) December 8, 2022 × Federer asserted, "So, I look at her one last time and I'm so sorry, I couldn't believe and still can't believe I said this and because I still feel bad about it. I'd look at her and say, "I have won this tournament eight times. Please believe me, I am a member!" Federer mentioned that he had to drive to another gate where he was finally recognised by a guard. He added, "When I said I won Wimbledon eight times, for a split second, I wasn't sure if it was eight anymore because I thought it 'was it seven, was it eight? I don't know'. But I said it because I never talk like this." Also read: 'It was a very...': Federer recalls conversation he had with Nadal while informing about his retirement It is to be noted that Federer has won as many as eight titles at the ALTEC; the most by any player. Novak Djokovic, after his Wimbledon 2022 triumph, is only one behind Federer's tally. Durnig his 24-year-long illustrious career, the Swiss player was regarded as one of the best players in grass-court history.

Wait, what? Roger Federer was once denied entry inside Wimbledon! Swiss maestro shares hilarious story

<p>On September 15, Roger Federer dropped a bomb by announcing his retirement from the game. Federer, the former world number one, had dominated proceedings on the court in his 24-year-long glittering career. The Swiss maestro played his last competitive match in the Laver Cup 2022 edition, in London, by featuring for Team Europe in their doubles face-off, versus Team World, alongside his long-time rival Rafael Nadal. Now, he has opened up on the emotional phone call he had with the Spaniard as he was the first person outside his family and team to know about his retirement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to Trevor Noah in the latest episode of the Daily Show, Federer spilled the beans on his call with Nadal. He told, "This is a very unusual situation for us to be on the same team. That changed the whole dynamics of my farewell. My hope was I could play doubles with Rafa. So I called him up after the US Open. It was a very emotional phone call because it was one of the first times I told somebody outside of my team and my family."</p>

<p>"I had to call him up and tell him ‘hey Rafa, just before you make any other plans, I would love you to be at the Laver Cup and play maybe one last doubles with me. It would be amazing. Unfortunately, my knee is not good anymore and I think, it’s the end, you know? And he is like, ‘okay, oh my god, okay, yeah I will be there whatever it takes’.</p>

<p>"He has now become a father, happy for him. And we were not sure if he was going to make it because of the baby. It was one of the first times I had to tell that story and come to terms that my career was ending," Federer added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hes-gone-erik-ten-hag-reacts-to-cristiano-ronaldos-ouster-from-man-united-after-explosive-claims-541164">'He’s gone...': Erik Ten Hag reacts to Cristiano Ronaldo's ouster from Man United after explosive claims</a></strong></p>

<p>Recalling the magical atmosphere in the Laver Cup and retiring with his rivals close to his side, Federer said, "So when he showed up, and Novak was there, and Murray was there, and Bjorn Borg was there, it was an amazing moment. I knew it was going to be an emotional moment. I have cried a lot in victory and defeat when I was younger, I don’t why, I do it. I am happy because I remember that moment because of it. When I took the mic after it was all over, I knew it was going to be bad, but I did pretty good. I was so happy that I was able to be there in tennis clothes. And it was amazing to do it in London too, where I have had so much success.&nbsp;"Rafa there holding my hand, briefly people thought it wasâ€¦ I held his hand, actually. It was amazing."</p>

<p>In his final competitive match, in the Laver Cup, Federer teamed up with Nadal as they went down to Team World's Frances Tiafoe and Jack Sock4-6, 7-6 (2), 11-9. However, Federer has left a huge void in the tennis fraternity with his retirement after winning hearts with his on-court performances and overall demeanour. The veteran ended with as many as 20 Grand Slam titles and 103 singles titles in 24 years.</p>


On September 15, Roger Federer dropped a bomb by announcing his retirement from the game. Federer, the former world number one, had dominated proceedings on the court in his 24-year-long glittering career.

On September 15, Roger Federer dropped a bomb by announcing his retirement from the game. Federer, the former world number one, had dominated proceedings on the court in his 24-year-long glittering career. The Swiss maestro played his last competitive match in the Laver Cup 2022 edition, in London, by featuring for Team Europe in their doubles face-off, versus Team World, alongside his long-time rival Rafael Nadal. Now, he has opened up on the emotional phone call he had with the Spaniard as he was the first person outside his family and team to know about his retirement. Speaking to Trevor Noah in the latest episode of the Daily Show, Federer spilled the beans on his call with Nadal. He told, "This is a very unusual situation for us to be on the same team. That changed the whole dynamics of my farewell. My hope was I could play doubles with Rafa. So I called him up after the US Open. It was a very emotional phone call because it was one of the first times I told somebody outside of my team and my family." "I had to call him up and tell him ‘hey Rafa, just before you make any other plans, I would love you to be at the Laver Cup and play maybe one last doubles with me. It would be amazing. Unfortunately, my knee is not good anymore and I think, it’s the end, you know? And he is like, ‘okay, oh my god, okay, yeah I will be there whatever it takes’. "He has now become a father, happy for him. And we were not sure if he was going to make it because of the baby. It was one of the first times I had to tell that story and come to terms that my career was ending," Federer added. Also read: 'He’s gone...': Erik Ten Hag reacts to Cristiano Ronaldo's ouster from Man United after explosive claims Recalling the magical atmosphere in the Laver Cup and retiring with his rivals close to his side, Federer said, "So when he showed up, and Novak was there, and Murray was there, and Bjorn Borg was there, it was an amazing moment. I knew it was going to be an emotional moment. I have cried a lot in victory and defeat when I was younger, I don’t why, I do it. I am happy because I remember that moment because of it. When I took the mic after it was all over, I knew it was going to be bad, but I did pretty good. I was so happy that I was able to be there in tennis clothes. And it was amazing to do it in London too, where I have had so much success. "Rafa there holding my hand, briefly people thought it wasâ€¦ I held his hand, actually. It was amazing." In his final competitive match, in the Laver Cup, Federer teamed up with Nadal as they went down to Team World's Frances Tiafoe and Jack Sock4-6, 7-6 (2), 11-9. However, Federer has left a huge void in the tennis fraternity with his retirement after winning hearts with his on-court performances and overall demeanour. The veteran ended with as many as 20 Grand Slam titles and 103 singles titles in 24 years.

'It was a very...': Federer recalls conversation he had with Nadal while informing about his retirement

<p>India is not just about cricket. Sure, the game remains a top choice for many but a plethora of non-cricket stalwarts have popularised various other sports. Talking about tennis, the game's rise has been spectacular. Of course, the likes of Vijay Amritraj, Jaideep Mukherjee, Leander Paes, and Mahesh Bhupathi were the pioneers of the game, Sania Mirza, Rohan Bopanna, Ramesh Ramanathan, Sumit Nagal, Somdevdev Burman, etc., have given it&nbsp;an extra mileage in the country.</p>

<p>Riya Bhatia is another tennis sensation&nbsp;on the rise. The 25-year-old is making giant strides and has been India's new No. 2 ranked player for quite some time. In addition, she clinched two national titles --&nbsp;hardcourt and grass-court national championships in 2016. Recently, she was&nbsp;seen playing for the Pro Veri Supersmashers&nbsp;in the ongoing fourth season&nbsp;of the Pro Tennis League (PTL) -- a platform for bidding young stars to hone their skills and showcase their credentials -- and ahead of it, <em>WION's Aditya Sahay</em>&nbsp;had an exclusive interview&nbsp;with her.<em>&nbsp;</em>During the interaction,&nbsp;she shed light on her game style,&nbsp;challenges of playing on different surfaces and named her favourites from the big league of players.</p>

<p><strong>How is Pro Tennis League honing the skills of young players?</strong></p>

<p>I would definitely say it is helping the sport in India. Wish I had something like this when I was a junior. We can mentor juniors and teach them how to play certain points. It's only through such leagues that they can connect with us and vice versa. With Indian people coming and watching us, it's a new format so it's a fun thing for all involved.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>How is it for Riya to play&nbsp;on different surfaces?</strong></p>

<p>I'm an all-round player. Changing surfaces isn't a big issue for me. I enjoy playing on all. My favourite is clay but I've been performing well on hard courts. Grass is something close to my heart and I played my best game there at the WTA in Germany and won the national grasscourt. My game is more of an all-round player where I can change my game style according to the court and conditions needed. Certainly, there are many things I've been working on and these leagues (such as the PTL) are a good way to prepare for big tournaments. You get into a zone by playing such leagues and PTL is definitely helpful.</p>

<p><strong>Your big goals going ahead?</strong></p>

<p>I've been No. 2 in India for a very long time. My highest ranking in singles was 300 in internationals and my goal is to go higher than that. To represent India in the Olympics and win a medal. I also want to play some Grand Slams and win big matches over there.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Whose your favourites among the current&nbsp;league of players?</strong></p>

<p>I don't want to copy but there is a lot to learn from great players. I've always looked up to Roger Federer.&nbsp;He is always calm. Lots to imbibe from him on how he thinks,&nbsp;moves on the court and creates magic. From women, I absolutely love Ashleigh Barty. I feel my game style is close to hers. She's very aggressive. At the moment, I like to watch a lot of matches of Novak Djokovic and Iga Swiatek.</p>

<p>While the Pro Veri Supersmashers have had a forgettable run in the ongoing PTL, Riya's career has surely taken off with a lot of promise.</p>


India is not just about cricket. Sure, the game remains a top choice for many but a plethora of non-cricket stalwarts have popularised various other sports. Talking about tennis, the game's rise has been spectacular.

India is not just about cricket. Sure, the game remains a top choice for many but a plethora of non-cricket stalwarts have popularised various other sports. Talking about tennis, the game's rise has been spectacular. Of course, the likes of Vijay Amritraj, Jaideep Mukherjee, Leander Paes, and Mahesh Bhupathi were the pioneers of the game, Sania Mirza, Rohan Bopanna, Ramesh Ramanathan, Sumit Nagal, Somdevdev Burman, etc., have given it an extra mileage in the country. Riya Bhatia is another tennis sensation on the rise. The 25-year-old is making giant strides and has been India's new No. 2 ranked player for quite some time. In addition, she clinched two national titles -- hardcourt and grass-court national championships in 2016. Recently, she was seen playing for the Pro Veri Supersmashers in the ongoing fourth season of the Pro Tennis League (PTL) -- a platform for bidding young stars to hone their skills and showcase their credentials -- and ahead of it, WION's Aditya Sahay had an exclusive interview with her. During the interaction, she shed light on her game style, challenges of playing on different surfaces and named her favourites from the big league of players. How is Pro Tennis League honing the skills of young players? I would definitely say it is helping the sport in India. Wish I had something like this when I was a junior. We can mentor juniors and teach them how to play certain points. It's only through such leagues that they can connect with us and vice versa. With Indian people coming and watching us, it's a new format so it's a fun thing for all involved. How is it for Riya to play on different surfaces? I'm an all-round player. Changing surfaces isn't a big issue for me. I enjoy playing on all. My favourite is clay but I've been performing well on hard courts. Grass is something close to my heart and I played my best game there at the WTA in Germany and won the national grasscourt. My game is more of an all-round player where I can change my game style according to the court and conditions needed. Certainly, there are many things I've been working on and these leagues (such as the PTL) are a good way to prepare for big tournaments. You get into a zone by playing such leagues and PTL is definitely helpful. Your big goals going ahead? I've been No. 2 in India for a very long time. My highest ranking in singles was 300 in internationals and my goal is to go higher than that. To represent India in the Olympics and win a medal. I also want to play some Grand Slams and win big matches over there. Whose your favourites among the current league of players? I don't want to copy but there is a lot to learn from great players. I've always looked up to Roger Federer. He is always calm. Lots to imbibe from him on how he thinks, moves on the court and creates magic. From women, I absolutely love Ashleigh Barty. I feel my game style is close to hers. She's very aggressive. At the moment, I like to watch a lot of matches of Novak Djokovic and Iga Swiatek. While the Pro Veri Supersmashers have had a forgettable run in the ongoing PTL, Riya's career has surely taken off with a lot of promise.

Exclusive: My goal is to represent India in the Olympics and win a medal, says Riya Bhatia

<p>"Don't overthink that perfect ending, your will always be amazing in your own way" - were the words Roger Federer used, to sum up, what was far from a perfect ending to his glorious career. The Swiss ace lost his final career match at the Laver Cup last week to bring the curtains down on his illustrious tennis journey.</p>

<p>It was not the kind of finish he would have dreamt of but it was eventful, emotional and fulfilling in its own way. Federer ended his career after losing his last singles and doubles game along with his last team event.</p>

<p>But having his great rival alongside him for his last game, and millions around the world weeping for having marvelled the last of his magic on the court, Federer still managed to achieve what many could only dream of when hanging up their boots.</p>

<p>The results hardly mattered as it was all about the legacy the 41-year-old&nbsp;left behind after decades of his heroics on and off the court. While Federer's&nbsp;was still an ending many can only dream of, Juan Martin Del Potro, a former world no.3 lifted the lid on how a series of injuries led to his heartbreaking retirement decision and left him with 'nothing'.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pickleball-phenomenon-takes-over-new-york-all-you-need-to-know-about-mini-tennis-521446">Pickleball phenomenon takes over New York - All you need to know about 'mini tennis'</a></p>

<p>Del Potro managed only a solitary Grand Slam singles title, but he made the world stand up and take notice of his phenomenal talent with his on-court exploits at the start of his career. The Argentinian had the world at his feet when he became only the third player to defeat Federer in a Grand Slam final in 2009.</p>

<p>Del Potro outclassed Federer to clinch his maiden US Open title in 2009 and there was no looking back. However, injuries kept troubling him consistently, eventually forcing him to give up on the sport. After reaching a career-high ranking of world no.3 in 2018, Del Potro said he will quit tennis after the Argentina Open in February, earlier this year.</p>

<p>Lifting the lid on his injury struggles and retirement heartbreak, Del Potro revealed he cannot run or climb stairs without pain. The Argentinian said he has visited a host of doctors and has started another treatment which failed to yield a positive result.</p>

<p>“I recently went to Switzerland to see another doctor. I started another treatment, it was recommended by many tennis players and so far I have not even had a positive result," Del Potro told said in an interview with Argentinian newspaper&nbsp;La Nacion.</p>

<p>“Imagine what it’s like after every treatment attempt or surgery, the frustration I can feel when things don’t work out. As usual I delude myself, I hope, I have faith in every new treatment I try and, when this fails, the blow is hard.</p>

<p>“And for three and a half years, despite several surgeries and treatments, it always happened. Today I can only walk, I do not run on the treadmill, I cannot climb the stairs without pain. I can’t drive for a long time without stopping to stretch my legs.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-roger-federer-leaves-everyone-in-tears-as-he-bids-adieu-to-tennis-519333">In pics| Roger Federer leaves everyone in tears as he bids adieu to tennis</a></p>

<p>"This is my reality, which is hard, it is sad, but I always try to improve my situation and my new challenge is also to live in the best possible way, even psychologically, despite my problem," he went on.</p>

<p>Del Potro had a tough time dealing with injuries throughout his career. The former world no.3 went through four knee surgeries after he fractured his knee cap twice in eight months. The Argentinian said he didn't have a gradual transition to retirement and still wants to return to the court but his knee injury has left him with 'nothing'.</p>

<p>"I can’t psychologically accept a life without tennis. I did not have a gradual transition to the after, I did not prepare, I have no idea what the other athletes did to live this process peacefully," said Del Potro.</p>

<p>"I was number three in the world, then suddenly I broke my knees and here I am, with nothing," added the 34-year-old.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-retires-a-black-swan-in-tennis-and-goat-beyond-numbers-517114">Roger Federer retires: A Black Swan in tennis and GOAT beyond numbers</a></p>

<p>Del Potro, whose last appearance came at the Argentina Open in Buenos Aires earlier this year is yet to retire officially, but has hinted he might not return to the court again. He said&nbsp;he knew after playing at the Argentina Open that his time was up. Injuries had taken a toll on his body and the 34-year-old&nbsp;knew it was 'enough'.</p>

<p>"And all this time I was trying to recover, as I have with any other injury, until in Buenos Aires I said: ‘That’s enough’. And from Buenos Aires I found myself, and I am still there, in that process of reflection, I wonder what things I might like, I don’t know," said Del Potro.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


"Don't overthink that perfect ending, your will always be amazing in your own way" - were the words Roger Federer used, to sum up, what was far from a perfect ending to his glorious career.

"Don't overthink that perfect ending, your will always be amazing in your own way" - were the words Roger Federer used, to sum up, what was far from a perfect ending to his glorious career. The Swiss ace lost his final career match at the Laver Cup last week to bring the curtains down on his illustrious tennis journey. It was not the kind of finish he would have dreamt of but it was eventful, emotional and fulfilling in its own way. Federer ended his career after losing his last singles and doubles game along with his last team event. But having his great rival alongside him for his last game, and millions around the world weeping for having marvelled the last of his magic on the court, Federer still managed to achieve what many could only dream of when hanging up their boots. The results hardly mattered as it was all about the legacy the 41-year-old left behind after decades of his heroics on and off the court. While Federer's was still an ending many can only dream of, Juan Martin Del Potro, a former world no.3 lifted the lid on how a series of injuries led to his heartbreaking retirement decision and left him with 'nothing'. Also Read: Pickleball phenomenon takes over New York - All you need to know about 'mini tennis' Del Potro managed only a solitary Grand Slam singles title, but he made the world stand up and take notice of his phenomenal talent with his on-court exploits at the start of his career. The Argentinian had the world at his feet when he became only the third player to defeat Federer in a Grand Slam final in 2009. Del Potro outclassed Federer to clinch his maiden US Open title in 2009 and there was no looking back. However, injuries kept troubling him consistently, eventually forcing him to give up on the sport. After reaching a career-high ranking of world no.3 in 2018, Del Potro said he will quit tennis after the Argentina Open in February, earlier this year. Lifting the lid on his injury struggles and retirement heartbreak, Del Potro revealed he cannot run or climb stairs without pain. The Argentinian said he has visited a host of doctors and has started another treatment which failed to yield a positive result. “I recently went to Switzerland to see another doctor. I started another treatment, it was recommended by many tennis players and so far I have not even had a positive result," Del Potro told said in an interview with Argentinian newspaper La Nacion. “Imagine what it’s like after every treatment attempt or surgery, the frustration I can feel when things don’t work out. As usual I delude myself, I hope, I have faith in every new treatment I try and, when this fails, the blow is hard. “And for three and a half years, despite several surgeries and treatments, it always happened. Today I can only walk, I do not run on the treadmill, I cannot climb the stairs without pain. I can’t drive for a long time without stopping to stretch my legs. Also Read: In pics| Roger Federer leaves everyone in tears as he bids adieu to tennis "This is my reality, which is hard, it is sad, but I always try to improve my situation and my new challenge is also to live in the best possible way, even psychologically, despite my problem," he went on. Del Potro had a tough time dealing with injuries throughout his career. The former world no.3 went through four knee surgeries after he fractured his knee cap twice in eight months. The Argentinian said he didn't have a gradual transition to retirement and still wants to return to the court but his knee injury has left him with 'nothing'. "I can’t psychologically accept a life without tennis. I did not have a gradual transition to the after, I did not prepare, I have no idea what the other athletes did to live this process peacefully," said Del Potro. "I was number three in the world, then suddenly I broke my knees and here I am, with nothing," added the 34-year-old. Also Read: Roger Federer retires: A Black Swan in tennis and GOAT beyond numbers Del Potro, whose last appearance came at the Argentina Open in Buenos Aires earlier this year is yet to retire officially, but has hinted he might not return to the court again. He said he knew after playing at the Argentina Open that his time was up. Injuries had taken a toll on his body and the 34-year-old knew it was 'enough'. "And all this time I was trying to recover, as I have with any other injury, until in Buenos Aires I said: ‘That’s enough’. And from Buenos Aires I found myself, and I am still there, in that process of reflection, I wonder what things I might like, I don’t know," said Del Potro. ×

'Here I am, with nothing': Juan Martin del Potro lifts lid on heartbreaking injury struggles

<p>Virat Kohli and Roger Federer remain&nbsp;two of the biggest names in world sports. While Kohli is going strong for Team India and will be a key player at the upcoming T20 World Cup for the one-time winners, Federer sent his plethora of fans into a meltdown by retiring from tennis at the end of the recently-held Laver Cup, in London.</p>

<p>Prior to the 2022 edition of the Laver Cup, Federer had announced that he will step aside from the game by end of September and play his last professional match at the mega event in London. Representing Team Europe, the Federer-starrer side lost 8-13 as Team World won the Laver Cup for the first time in the fifth edition.</p>

<p>Talking about Federer's glittering career, he clinched&nbsp;103 singles titles. The 41-year-old Swiss maestro ended&nbsp;with a staggering 20 Grand Slam titles -- third-most in men's tennis -- and wishes poured in from all corners for the legendary player. Kohli, in a video shared by ATP Tour's official Twitter handle, also paid a heartfelt tribute to Federer:</p>

<p>In the video, the former Indian captain said, "Hello Roger, it's a great honour for me to be able to send this video across for you congratulating you on a phenomenal career that has given us so many beautiful moments and memories."</p>

<p>"I personally had the chance to meet you in the Australian Open in 2018, something that I'll never ever forget in my life. One thing that stood out for me even watching you play, was the fact that so many people around the world, not just in the world of tennis got behind you, supporting you and that kind of unity I've never seen for any other individual athlete ever. That is something that cannot be created, that cannot be generated in anyway."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you for all the incredible memories, Roger 💫 <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RForever?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RForever</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> <a href="https://t.co/VjPtVp9aq6">pic.twitter.com/VjPtVp9aq6</a></p>
— ATP Tour (@atptour) <a href="https://twitter.com/atptour/status/1575284800579112960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 29, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-you-see-someone-you-appreciate-saying-goodbye-rafael-nadal-on-roger-federers-retirement-520199"><strong>'When you see someone you appreciate saying goodbye...' - Rafael Nadal on Roger Federer's retirement</strong></a></p>

<p>"You had that special ability always. It was very evident when we watched you play and the aura you brought on court is unmatchable. And for me, you're always going to be the greatest of all time. I'm sure in the next phase of your life you're going to have as much fun and as much enjoyment as you did on the court. I wish you all the best and your family as well. Take care," Kohli added.</p>

<p>Federer played his last game with longtime rival Rafael Nadal as the two teamed up for Team Europe's doubles clash versus&nbsp;American duo&nbsp;Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe, losing&nbsp;4-6, 7-6 (2), 11-9.</p>

<p>After Federer's retirement match, Nadal was in tears. He recently told COPE, "I'm a sensitive person, when you see someone you appreciate saying goodbye it's hard not to get emotional. It was difficult for it not to happen because of everything that was experienced that night."</p>

<p>The Spaniard also opened up on the two's&nbsp;iconic image where both were shedding tears and mentioned, "It got a little out of hand, and the worst thing is that when I went to the dressing room it happened again. Like everything, the relationship had different stages. It's been a relationship that was good from the beginning but that grown stronger over the years."</p>


Virat Kohli and Roger Federer remain two of the biggest names in world sports. While Kohli is going strong for Team India and will be a key player at the upcoming T20 World Cup for the one-time winners, Federer sent his plethora of fans into a meltdown by retiring from tennis at the end of the recently-held Laver Cup, in London.

Virat Kohli and Roger Federer remain two of the biggest names in world sports. While Kohli is going strong for Team India and will be a key player at the upcoming T20 World Cup for the one-time winners, Federer sent his plethora of fans into a meltdown by retiring from tennis at the end of the recently-held Laver Cup, in London. Prior to the 2022 edition of the Laver Cup, Federer had announced that he will step aside from the game by end of September and play his last professional match at the mega event in London. Representing Team Europe, the Federer-starrer side lost 8-13 as Team World won the Laver Cup for the first time in the fifth edition. Talking about Federer's glittering career, he clinched 103 singles titles. The 41-year-old Swiss maestro ended with a staggering 20 Grand Slam titles -- third-most in men's tennis -- and wishes poured in from all corners for the legendary player. Kohli, in a video shared by ATP Tour's official Twitter handle, also paid a heartfelt tribute to Federer: In the video, the former Indian captain said, "Hello Roger, it's a great honour for me to be able to send this video across for you congratulating you on a phenomenal career that has given us so many beautiful moments and memories." "I personally had the chance to meet you in the Australian Open in 2018, something that I'll never ever forget in my life. One thing that stood out for me even watching you play, was the fact that so many people around the world, not just in the world of tennis got behind you, supporting you and that kind of unity I've never seen for any other individual athlete ever. That is something that cannot be created, that cannot be generated in anyway." Thank you for all the incredible memories, Roger 💫 @rogerfederer | #RForever | @imVkohli pic.twitter.com/VjPtVp9aq6 — ATP Tour (@atptour) September 29, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'When you see someone you appreciate saying goodbye...' - Rafael Nadal on Roger Federer's retirement "You had that special ability always. It was very evident when we watched you play and the aura you brought on court is unmatchable. And for me, you're always going to be the greatest of all time. I'm sure in the next phase of your life you're going to have as much fun and as much enjoyment as you did on the court. I wish you all the best and your family as well. Take care," Kohli added. Federer played his last game with longtime rival Rafael Nadal as the two teamed up for Team Europe's doubles clash versus American duo Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe, losing 4-6, 7-6 (2), 11-9. After Federer's retirement match, Nadal was in tears. He recently told COPE, "I'm a sensitive person, when you see someone you appreciate saying goodbye it's hard not to get emotional. It was difficult for it not to happen because of everything that was experienced that night." The Spaniard also opened up on the two's iconic image where both were shedding tears and mentioned, "It got a little out of hand, and the worst thing is that when I went to the dressing room it happened again. Like everything, the relationship had different stages. It's been a relationship that was good from the beginning but that grown stronger over the years."

Watch: 'For me, you are always going to be GOAT' - Virat Kohli pays heartfelt tribute to Roger Federer

<p>Roger Federer sent his plethora of fans into a meltdown by announcing that he is calling it quits from tennis after the Laver Cup, which concluded on September 25. After his doubles match for Team Europe, where he teamed up with longtime rival and friend Rafael Nadal, Federer's illustrious career came to an end.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Swiss maestro ended with as many as 20 Grand Slam titles -- third-most in men's tennis to date -- and is regarded as one of the greatest players of all time. Following his retirement, reactions poured in from all corners with many sporting icons across the globe lauding the 41-year-old. Former Indian captain Virat Kohli also joined the bandwagon and shared a heartfelt video for Federer, which was posted on ATP's official Twitter account.</p>

<p>In the clip, Kohli said, "Hello Roger, it's a great honour for me to send this video across to you, congratulating you on a phenomenal career that has given us so many beautiful moments and memories. I personally had the chance to meet you at the Australian Open in 2018 - something that I will never ever forget in my life. One thing that stood out for me while watching you play, was that so many people around the world, not just in the world of tennis, got behind you, supporting you. And that kind of unity I have never seen for any other individual athlete, ever. That is something that cannot be created or generated in any way. You had that special ability always, it was evident when we watched you play. The aura you brought on court, is unmatchable and for me, you will always be the greatest of all time. I am sure in the next phase of your life, you are going to have as much fun and as much enjoyment as you did on the court. I wish you and your family all the best. Take care."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-for-me-you-are-always-going-to-be-goat-virat-kohli-pays-heartfelt-tribute-to-roger-federer-520839">Watch: 'For me, you are always going to be GOAT' - Virat Kohli pays heartfelt tribute to Roger Federer</a></strong></p>

<p>Federer has now acknowledged Kohli's video tribute. The former world number one posted it on his Instagram story with the&nbsp;caption, "Thanks Virat Kohli. I hope to make it to India soon."</p>

<p>The legendary tennis star has plenty of fans in India. If he goes to the country in the near future, he will surely be greeted by many of his ardent followers. In his swansong from tennis, Federer-starrer Team Europe lost the Laver Cup for the first time as Team World beat them 13-8 in London.</p>


Roger Federer sent his plethora of fans into a meltdown by announcing that he is calling it quits from tennis after the Laver Cup, which concluded on September 25.

Roger Federer sent his plethora of fans into a meltdown by announcing that he is calling it quits from tennis after the Laver Cup, which concluded on September 25. After his doubles match for Team Europe, where he teamed up with longtime rival and friend Rafael Nadal, Federer's illustrious career came to an end. The Swiss maestro ended with as many as 20 Grand Slam titles -- third-most in men's tennis to date -- and is regarded as one of the greatest players of all time. Following his retirement, reactions poured in from all corners with many sporting icons across the globe lauding the 41-year-old. Former Indian captain Virat Kohli also joined the bandwagon and shared a heartfelt video for Federer, which was posted on ATP's official Twitter account. In the clip, Kohli said, "Hello Roger, it's a great honour for me to send this video across to you, congratulating you on a phenomenal career that has given us so many beautiful moments and memories. I personally had the chance to meet you at the Australian Open in 2018 - something that I will never ever forget in my life. One thing that stood out for me while watching you play, was that so many people around the world, not just in the world of tennis, got behind you, supporting you. And that kind of unity I have never seen for any other individual athlete, ever. That is something that cannot be created or generated in any way. You had that special ability always, it was evident when we watched you play. The aura you brought on court, is unmatchable and for me, you will always be the greatest of all time. I am sure in the next phase of your life, you are going to have as much fun and as much enjoyment as you did on the court. I wish you and your family all the best. Take care." ALSO READ | Watch: 'For me, you are always going to be GOAT' - Virat Kohli pays heartfelt tribute to Roger Federer Federer has now acknowledged Kohli's video tribute. The former world number one posted it on his Instagram story with the caption, "Thanks Virat Kohli. I hope to make it to India soon." The legendary tennis star has plenty of fans in India. If he goes to the country in the near future, he will surely be greeted by many of his ardent followers. In his swansong from tennis, Federer-starrer Team Europe lost the Laver Cup for the first time as Team World beat them 13-8 in London.

'Thank you...' - Roger Federer reacts to Virat Kohli's heartfelt video on his retirement

<p>World number two Casper Ruud said on Wednesday that a bit of Roger Federer had rubbed off on him after being part of the tennis legend's send-off last week.</p>

<p>The 23-year-old Norwegian reached the final of the US Open earlier this month and then was surrounded by the cream of men's tennis at the Laver Cup in London for Federer's last hurrah.</p>

<p>He enjoyed seeing up close the chemistry between Federer and his long-time rival and friend Rafael Nadal. The duo played together in doubles for Federer's farewell.</p>

<p>"Having those two together in Roger's last match was incredible to witness," Ruud said at the Korea Open in Seoul.</p>

<p>"It was very fun to be around them. They joke with each other all the time.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-was-close-to-retiring-thought-french-open-this-year-might-be-my-last-tournament-rafael-nadal-519556">I was close to retiring, thought French Open this year might be my last tournament: Rafael Nadal</a></p>

<p>"Obviously they're older and at a later stage in their career and it's inspiring to see that they have the motivation to keep going and that they are eager to play and enjoy each other's company.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I was lucky and I was honoured that I was able to be a part of the team. I learned a lot and took a lot of joy with me from the experience."</p>

<p>The top seed Ruud said that the pressure is off in the South Korean capital, where he faces 111th-ranked Nicolas Jarry in his opener on Thursday.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-roger-federer-leaves-everyone-in-tears-as-he-bids-adieu-to-tennis-519333">In pics| Roger Federer leaves everyone in tears as he bids adieu to tennis</a>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There’s always room for improvement," said Ruud.</p>

<p>"(But) I feel that I have done very well this year, so if it doesn't go extremely well (at the tournament), it's not going to matter too much."</p>


World number two Casper Ruud said on Wednesday that a bit of Roger Federer had rubbed off on him after being part of the tennis legend's send-off last week. The 23-year-old Norwegian reached the final of the US Open earlier this month and then was surrounded by the cream of men's tennis at the Laver Cup in London for Federer's last hurrah.

World number two Casper Ruud said on Wednesday that a bit of Roger Federer had rubbed off on him after being part of the tennis legend's send-off last week. The 23-year-old Norwegian reached the final of the US Open earlier this month and then was surrounded by the cream of men's tennis at the Laver Cup in London for Federer's last hurrah. He enjoyed seeing up close the chemistry between Federer and his long-time rival and friend Rafael Nadal. The duo played together in doubles for Federer's farewell. "Having those two together in Roger's last match was incredible to witness," Ruud said at the Korea Open in Seoul. "It was very fun to be around them. They joke with each other all the time. Also Read: I was close to retiring, thought French Open this year might be my last tournament: Rafael Nadal "Obviously they're older and at a later stage in their career and it's inspiring to see that they have the motivation to keep going and that they are eager to play and enjoy each other's company. "I was lucky and I was honoured that I was able to be a part of the team. I learned a lot and took a lot of joy with me from the experience." The top seed Ruud said that the pressure is off in the South Korean capital, where he faces 111th-ranked Nicolas Jarry in his opener on Thursday. Also Read: In pics| Roger Federer leaves everyone in tears as he bids adieu to tennis "There’s always room for improvement," said Ruud. "(But) I feel that I have done very well this year, so if it doesn't go extremely well (at the tournament), it's not going to matter too much."

World no.2 Casper Ruud takes inspiration from Roger Federer's send-off

roger-federer

Roger Federer, News on Roger Federer, stories on Roger Federer, articles on Roger Federer, Roger Federer stories at Wion, Roger Federer news, Roger Federer latest news

roger federer