Reliving Rafael Nadal’s 5 greatest wins in French Open finals

Ninth-seed Stefanos Tsitsipas went past Marton Fucsovics in his opening game of the French Open 2024 edition on Monday (May 27). The Greek star eased to the next round with a 7-6 (9-7), 6-4, 6-1 win over the Hungarian player under the new roof on Court Suzanne Lenglen on a rain-marred Day 2 of the Roland Garros.&nbsp;

Talking about the contest, Tsitsipas -- who confirmed getting back with Spanish player and girlfriend Paula Badosa -- didn't have an easy start. His Hungarian opponent was up for the challenge as the first set was stretched considerably. It went into the tie-breaker with the 25-year-old Tsitsipas emerging on top 7-6 (9-7) in what was a riveting opening set. The Greek player endured some tough moments in the following set as well but wrapped it up relatively easily, winning 6-4 before taking the third set without dropping much sweat (6-1).

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With this win, Tsitsipas has opened his French Open campaign in style and will now lock horns with Germany's Daniel Altmaier in the second round, on Wednesday (May 29) at the Roland Garros. Facing the 83rd ranked Altmaier, Tsitsipas will hope for another straight-set win as the competition will get intense with each passing round. Meanwhile, the likes of Jannik Sinner and Stan Wawrinka have also moved ahead and entered the second round in the clay-court tournament.&nbsp;

Monday evening's biggest clash is Rafael Nadal, a 14-time French Open champion, versus Alexander Zverev. All eyes are on Nadal who is believed to be making his final appearance at the French Open; a tournament he has dominated since his early days.&nbsp;

Ninth-seed Stefanos Tsitsipas went past Marton Fucsovics in his opening game of the French Open 2024 edition on Monday (May 27). The Greek star eased to the next round with a 7-6 (9-7), 6-4, 6-1 win over the Hungarian player under the new roof on Court Suzanne Lenglen on a rain-marred Day 2 of the Roland Garros.

Ninth-seed Stefanos Tsitsipas went past Marton Fucsovics in his opening game of the French Open 2024 edition on Monday (May 27). The Greek star eased to the next round with a 7-6 (9-7), 6-4, 6-1 win over the Hungarian player under the new roof on Court Suzanne Lenglen on a rain-marred Day 2 of the Roland Garros. Talking about the contest, Tsitsipas -- who confirmed getting back with Spanish player and girlfriend Paula Badosa -- didn't have an easy start. His Hungarian opponent was up for the challenge as the first set was stretched considerably. It went into the tie-breaker with the 25-year-old Tsitsipas emerging on top 7-6 (9-7) in what was a riveting opening set. The Greek player endured some tough moments in the following set as well but wrapped it up relatively easily, winning 6-4 before taking the third set without dropping much sweat (6-1). Also read: Tennis: Andy Murray bids adieu to French Open with first-round loss to Wawrinka With this win, Tsitsipas has opened his French Open campaign in style and will now lock horns with Germany's Daniel Altmaier in the second round, on Wednesday (May 29) at the Roland Garros. Facing the 83rd ranked Altmaier, Tsitsipas will hope for another straight-set win as the competition will get intense with each passing round. Meanwhile, the likes of Jannik Sinner and Stan Wawrinka have also moved ahead and entered the second round in the clay-court tournament. Monday evening's biggest clash is Rafael Nadal, a 14-time French Open champion, versus Alexander Zverev. All eyes are on Nadal who is believed to be making his final appearance at the French Open; a tournament he has dominated since his early days.

French Open 2024: Ninth-seed Stefanos Tsitsipas goes past Marton Fucsovics in opening round

In what could be his last French Open, 14-times champion Rafa Nadal faces a tough task to avoid it all ending in a first-round exit when he plays Alexander Zverev on Monday.

Nadal had already announced that this could be the final season of his career but on his arrival in Paris the Spaniard said he could not yet be sure that he was ready to close the door on Roland Garros.

After missing last year's tournament through injury, Nadal will be keen to make the most of his return, as will his fans, but standing in his way is fourth-seeded German Zverev, fresh from his triumph at the Italian Open.

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"It's not ideal the first match, because I feel competitive to have this match later in the tournament, but it's how it is," Nadal said. "I need to be ready since the beginning. Let's see."

The meeting will bring back contrasting memories for both players of the last time they met, in a French Open semi-final in 2022, when Nadal went on to win yet another title in Paris, the last of his 22 Grand Slam victories.

Zverev was forced to retire from that match with an ankle injury. He underwent surgery and ended up missing the rest of the season with another injury, but he returned last year to reach his third consecutive French Open semi-final.

With some of the other top players such as Novak Djokovic, Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, struggling with injuries of late, this could be Zverev's chance to finally win a Grand Slam.

The German might not have wanted to meet Nadal so early in the tournament but he was happy to have the chance to take him on again.

"I really wanted to play him here. I did not want to play him in the first round. I wanted to play him in the semi-finals, finals, a later stage of the tournament," Zverev said. "But at the end of the day, he's not seeded, it is how it is, and I think we're both prepared for a tough battle."

World number two Sinner makes his return to action after sitting out the Italian Open following a hip injury at the Madrid Open, and takes on American Christopher Eubanks.

Iga Swiatek begins her title defence against French qualifier Leolia Jeanjean, and the Polish world number one comes to Paris on the back of title wins in Madrid and Rome.

American third seed Coco Gauff plays 21-year-old qualifier Julia Avdeeva, with the Russian making her Grand Slam debut.

In what could be his last French Open, 14-times champion Rafa Nadal faces a tough task to avoid it all ending in a first-round exit when he plays Alexander Zverev on Monday.

In what could be his last French Open, 14-times champion Rafa Nadal faces a tough task to avoid it all ending in a first-round exit when he plays Alexander Zverev on Monday. Nadal had already announced that this could be the final season of his career but on his arrival in Paris the Spaniard said he could not yet be sure that he was ready to close the door on Roland Garros. After missing last year's tournament through injury, Nadal will be keen to make the most of his return, as will his fans, but standing in his way is fourth-seeded German Zverev, fresh from his triumph at the Italian Open. ALSO READ: Tennis: Andy Murray bids adieu to French Open with first-round loss to Wawrinka "It's not ideal the first match, because I feel competitive to have this match later in the tournament, but it's how it is," Nadal said. "I need to be ready since the beginning. Let's see." The meeting will bring back contrasting memories for both players of the last time they met, in a French Open semi-final in 2022, when Nadal went on to win yet another title in Paris, the last of his 22 Grand Slam victories. Zverev was forced to retire from that match with an ankle injury. He underwent surgery and ended up missing the rest of the season with another injury, but he returned last year to reach his third consecutive French Open semi-final. With some of the other top players such as Novak Djokovic, Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, struggling with injuries of late, this could be Zverev's chance to finally win a Grand Slam. The German might not have wanted to meet Nadal so early in the tournament but he was happy to have the chance to take him on again. "I really wanted to play him here. I did not want to play him in the first round. I wanted to play him in the semi-finals, finals, a later stage of the tournament," Zverev said. "But at the end of the day, he's not seeded, it is how it is, and I think we're both prepared for a tough battle." World number two Sinner makes his return to action after sitting out the Italian Open following a hip injury at the Madrid Open, and takes on American Christopher Eubanks. Iga Swiatek begins her title defence against French qualifier Leolia Jeanjean, and the Polish world number one comes to Paris on the back of title wins in Madrid and Rome. American third seed Coco Gauff plays 21-year-old qualifier Julia Avdeeva, with the Russian making her Grand Slam debut.

Rafael Nadal faces Zverev in tough opener in what could be his last French Open

Andy Murray said he was "proud" after his French Open career ended Sunday with a first-round defeat by 2015 champion and fellow three-time Grand Slam title winner Stan Wawrinka.

Murray, the runner-up at Roland Garros in 2016, lost 6-4, 6-4, 6-2 in his last singles appearance at the tournament before retiring later this year.

The 37-year-old had already announced he plans to call time on his career in the summer with Wimbledon and the Paris Olympics as the two high-profile events left on his schedule.

On Sunday, he left to a standing ovation from the crowd on Court Philippe Chatrier and Murray returned the gesture by applauding the fans.

As well as his run to the final eight years ago, when he lost to Novak Djokovic, Murray reached the semi-finals four times and the last eight twice.

"Most players would sign up for the results I've had here," he said. "In a different time maybe the results would have been a bit different.

"I had great memories... It was not an easy surface for me. But I always showed up and put in some strong performances, considering. It was a good run here over the years."

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It was Murray's first appearance at Roland Garros since losing to Wawrinka in the first round four years ago and only his second since a dramatic semi-final defeat by the Swiss in 2017.

The Briton has struggled in recent months with an ankle injury but opted not to have surgery in a bid to play a last French Open.

"Sometimes now when you do have an injury it just takes a little bit longer for your body to get used to the intensity of the matches and stuff," added Murray, who said he would next play at the grass-court event in Stuttgart, which starts the week after Roland Garros.

"My body isn't what it was, you know, 10 years ago. I'm fully aware of that.

"It takes a lot of time and effort to get it in a position to go out there and compete.

"It's not always perfect. But it is what it is and I still enjoy giving a go and trying to get myself out there and be as competitive as possible."

Wawrinka, who has now defeated Murray three times in four meetings in Paris, described his opponent as an "amazing champion".

The Swiss veteran goes on to face either Cameron Norrie of Britain or Russia's Pavel Kotov for a place in the third round.

Wawrinka became only the third man over the age of 39 to win a match at the French Open since 1980.

"He achieved everything a player could achieve in tennis," Wawrinka said of Murray, against whom he trails 13-10 in their head-to-head record. "He's an amazing champion, amazing guy. I think he has a lot of fans, a lot of people start playing tennis because of him. I respect him a lot.

"I enjoyed playing him a lot last 20 years. We played so many times, so many big battles. Hopefully he's going to keep going a little bit."

Andy Murray said he was "proud" after his French Open career ended Sunday with a first-round defeat by 2015 champion and fellow three-time Grand Slam title winner Stan Wawrinka.

Andy Murray said he was "proud" after his French Open career ended Sunday with a first-round defeat by 2015 champion and fellow three-time Grand Slam title winner Stan Wawrinka. Murray, the runner-up at Roland Garros in 2016, lost 6-4, 6-4, 6-2 in his last singles appearance at the tournament before retiring later this year. The 37-year-old had already announced he plans to call time on his career in the summer with Wimbledon and the Paris Olympics as the two high-profile events left on his schedule. On Sunday, he left to a standing ovation from the crowd on Court Philippe Chatrier and Murray returned the gesture by applauding the fans. As well as his run to the final eight years ago, when he lost to Novak Djokovic, Murray reached the semi-finals four times and the last eight twice. "Most players would sign up for the results I've had here," he said. "In a different time maybe the results would have been a bit different. "I had great memories... It was not an easy surface for me. But I always showed up and put in some strong performances, considering. It was a good run here over the years." ALSO READ: French Open 2024: Carlos Alcaraz makes winning start at Roland Garros It was Murray's first appearance at Roland Garros since losing to Wawrinka in the first round four years ago and only his second since a dramatic semi-final defeat by the Swiss in 2017. The Briton has struggled in recent months with an ankle injury but opted not to have surgery in a bid to play a last French Open. "Sometimes now when you do have an injury it just takes a little bit longer for your body to get used to the intensity of the matches and stuff," added Murray, who said he would next play at the grass-court event in Stuttgart, which starts the week after Roland Garros. "My body isn't what it was, you know, 10 years ago. I'm fully aware of that. "It takes a lot of time and effort to get it in a position to go out there and compete. "It's not always perfect. But it is what it is and I still enjoy giving a go and trying to get myself out there and be as competitive as possible." Wawrinka, who has now defeated Murray three times in four meetings in Paris, described his opponent as an "amazing champion". The Swiss veteran goes on to face either Cameron Norrie of Britain or Russia's Pavel Kotov for a place in the third round. Wawrinka became only the third man over the age of 39 to win a match at the French Open since 1980. "He achieved everything a player could achieve in tennis," Wawrinka said of Murray, against whom he trails 13-10 in their head-to-head record. "He's an amazing champion, amazing guy. I think he has a lot of fans, a lot of people start playing tennis because of him. I respect him a lot. "I enjoyed playing him a lot last 20 years. We played so many times, so many big battles. Hopefully he's going to keep going a little bit."

Tennis: Andy Murray bids adieu to French Open with first-round loss to Wawrinka

World number three and reigning Wimbledon champion Alcaraz eased to a 6-1, 6-2, 6-1 win over America's J.J. Wolf, the 107th-ranked player who entered the main draw as a 'lucky loser' from qualifying.

Alcaraz, 21, who made the semi-finals in 2023 where he was defeated by Novak Djokovic, took his first-round record at the majors to 13-0.

Alcaraz showed no sign of suffering from the right arm injury which sidelined him from the Rome Open as he coasted to victory on the back of 27 winners and nine breaks of serve.

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"I don't need too many matches to be at my best," said Alcaraz.

"I have practised with a lot of top players in Paris this week and the forearm is feeling better and better."

Defending champion Novak Djokovic begins his bid for a fourth French Open title and 25th major on Tuesday.

"Low expectations and high hopes," said the Serb on Sunday after arriving in Paris without a title in the season for the first time since 2018.&nbsp;

Later Sunday, Stan Wawrinka, the 39-year-old 2015 champion, and 2016 runner-up Andy Murray meet for the 23rd time, a rivalry which has included two semi-final clashes in Paris.

Murray is playing his final season on tour but whether or not 14-time champion Rafael Nadal joins him in retirement later this year remains to be seen.

Nadal, who will be 38 on June 3, revealed Saturday that he hasn't committed himself to retiring and wanted to "100% keep the door open".

He missed the tournament in 2023 with injury while his 2024 appearance may be brief after he was drawn to face fourth-ranked Alexander Zverev on Monday.

"It's a big, big chance that this is going to be my last Roland Garros, but if I have to tell you it's 100% my last Roland Garros, sorry, but I will not," Nadal said.

The Spanish legend has racked up 112 wins in 115 matches at the tournament since his title-winning 2005 debut when he was just 19.

He has 22 Grand Slam titles -- second only to Djokovic's 24 on the all-time men's list -- but his career has been plagued by injuries.

World number three and reigning Wimbledon champion Alcaraz eased to a 6-1, 6-2, 6-1 win over America's J.J. Wolf, the 107th-ranked player who entered the main draw as a 'lucky loser' from qualifying.

World number three and reigning Wimbledon champion Alcaraz eased to a 6-1, 6-2, 6-1 win over America's J.J. Wolf, the 107th-ranked player who entered the main draw as a 'lucky loser' from qualifying. Alcaraz, 21, who made the semi-finals in 2023 where he was defeated by Novak Djokovic, took his first-round record at the majors to 13-0. Alcaraz showed no sign of suffering from the right arm injury which sidelined him from the Rome Open as he coasted to victory on the back of 27 winners and nine breaks of serve. Also Read: French Open: Naomi Osaka off to winning start with first round win; likely to face Iga Swiatek in next round "I don't need too many matches to be at my best," said Alcaraz. "I have practised with a lot of top players in Paris this week and the forearm is feeling better and better." Defending champion Novak Djokovic begins his bid for a fourth French Open title and 25th major on Tuesday. "Low expectations and high hopes," said the Serb on Sunday after arriving in Paris without a title in the season for the first time since 2018. Later Sunday, Stan Wawrinka, the 39-year-old 2015 champion, and 2016 runner-up Andy Murray meet for the 23rd time, a rivalry which has included two semi-final clashes in Paris. Murray is playing his final season on tour but whether or not 14-time champion Rafael Nadal joins him in retirement later this year remains to be seen. Nadal, who will be 38 on June 3, revealed Saturday that he hasn't committed himself to retiring and wanted to "100% keep the door open". He missed the tournament in 2023 with injury while his 2024 appearance may be brief after he was drawn to face fourth-ranked Alexander Zverev on Monday. "It's a big, big chance that this is going to be my last Roland Garros, but if I have to tell you it's 100% my last Roland Garros, sorry, but I will not," Nadal said. The Spanish legend has racked up 112 wins in 115 matches at the tournament since his title-winning 2005 debut when he was just 19. He has 22 Grand Slam titles -- second only to Djokovic's 24 on the all-time men's list -- but his career has been plagued by injuries.

French Open 2024: Carlos Alcaraz makes winning start at Roland Garros

Britian's young sensation Emma Raducanu has withdrawn from French Open qualifying round, stating that she will instead focus on training for the grass and hard-court seasons. The youngster was being looked upon as one of the darkhorses and was expected to fight her way through three rounds of qualifying at Roland Garros, however, the 21-year-old surprised one and all by pulling out of the clay-court tournament.&nbsp;

In a statement, Raducanu -- who famously won the 2021 US Open -- said, “It’s important for me to keep laying on the foundations and I will use the time to do a healthy block before the grass and subsequent hard-court seasons to give myself a chance to keep fit for the rest of the year."

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It is to be noted that Raducanu entered the tournament courtesy of her protected ranking (103), however, she remains three spots outside the main draw. Hence, she was overlooked for a wild card.

Raducanu has made a promising start to the clay-court season ahead of the second Grand Slam of 2024, i.e. the French Open. She defeated the French duo Caroline Garcia and Diane Parry to lead Britain into the Billie Jean King Cup Finals and followed it up by reaching the quarters of the WTA event in Stuttgart.

The former world number one Raducanu -- who became the first British woman to win a Grand Slam singles title since Virginia Wade (1977) during her US Open triumph in 2021 -- will now look to make the most of her&nbsp;off-time and gear up nicely for the upcoming tournaments later this year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Roland Garros kicks off soon, on May 29 in Paris, France.

Britian's young sensation Emma Raducanu has withdrawn from French Open qualifying round, stating that she will instead focus on training for the grass and hard-court seasons.

Britian's young sensation Emma Raducanu has withdrawn from French Open qualifying round, stating that she will instead focus on training for the grass and hard-court seasons. The youngster was being looked upon as one of the darkhorses and was expected to fight her way through three rounds of qualifying at Roland Garros, however, the 21-year-old surprised one and all by pulling out of the clay-court tournament. In a statement, Raducanu -- who famously won the 2021 US Open -- said, “It’s important for me to keep laying on the foundations and I will use the time to do a healthy block before the grass and subsequent hard-court seasons to give myself a chance to keep fit for the rest of the year." Also read: Germany's Alexander Zverev claims sixth Masters title at Italian Open It is to be noted that Raducanu entered the tournament courtesy of her protected ranking (103), however, she remains three spots outside the main draw. Hence, she was overlooked for a wild card. Raducanu has made a promising start to the clay-court season ahead of the second Grand Slam of 2024, i.e. the French Open. She defeated the French duo Caroline Garcia and Diane Parry to lead Britain into the Billie Jean King Cup Finals and followed it up by reaching the quarters of the WTA event in Stuttgart. The former world number one Raducanu -- who became the first British woman to win a Grand Slam singles title since Virginia Wade (1977) during her US Open triumph in 2021 -- will now look to make the most of her off-time and gear up nicely for the upcoming tournaments later this year. Meanwhile, the Roland Garros kicks off soon, on May 29 in Paris, France.

French Open 2024: 'I will use the time...' - Emma Raducanu pulls out of qualifiers after being denied wildcard

Novak Djokovic's shock exit from the Italian Open on Sunday could prove to be a decisive moment in the race for the world number one spot, as the top-ranked Serb prepares for his French Open title defence with Jannik Sinner poised to leapfrog him. Two days after accidentally being hit on the head by a water bottle while signing autographs in Rome, an off-colour Djokovic crashed to his earliest defeat in the tournament he has won six times after a 6-2 6-3 third-round thrashing by Alejandro Tabilo.

Djokovic will remain 1,090 points ahead of Sinner before the year's second Grand Slam begins on May 26, but the 36-year-old is on shaky ground as he will be defending 2,000 points in Paris and winning the title may not be enough to stay on top.

"It was a very unfortunate, unlucky situation ... that guy leaned over the fence, and the bottle dropped from his rucksack and landed on my head," Djokovic said, reflecting on the freak accident that hurt his chances to pull away from Sinner. "It was unexpected. I wasn't even looking up. Then I felt a very strong hit in the head. That has really impacted me. After that I got the medical care. Been through half-an-hour, an hour of nausea, dizziness, blood,&nbsp;a lot of different things."

"I managed to sleep okay. I had headaches. Yesterday was fine, so I thought it's okay. Maybe it's okay. Maybe it's not. "The way I felt on the court was just completely like a different player entered into my shoes. No rhythm, no tempo, no balance whatsoever on any shot. It's a bit concerning."

With only six matches on clay, Djokovic will be slightly undercooked as he heads to Paris in search of a record 25th Grand Slam title. Even if Djokovic goes on to win at Roland Garros, Sinner could rise to world number one for the first time on June 10 by reaching the championship match.

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The 22-year-old Sinner, who skipped Rome with a hip injury sustained in Madrid, will be defending only 45 points in Paris but faces a race against time to be fully fit. Djokovic had endured a bumpy season even before the bottle incident as the Serb's bid for a record-extending 11th title at the Australian Open was snuffed out by eventual champion Sinner in the semi-finals.

He then fell to lucky loser Luca Nardi in the Indian Wells third round before being outlasted by Casper Ruud in the Monte Carlo semi-finals, sparking fear among fans that his aura of invincibility was slowly fading.

Despite winning three out of the four Grand Slams last year, Djokovic split with long-time coach Goran Ivanisevic and fitness coach Marco Panichi in a bid to rediscover his best form ahead of Roland Garros, Wimbledon and the Paris Olympics.

Talk of terminal decline may still be premature and Djokovic could silence critics by winning a fourth title at the claycourt major, but he admitted things must improve fast after reaching May without a trophy for the first time since 2018. "Everything needs to be better in order for me to have at least a chance to win it," said Djokovic.

Novak Djokovic's shock exit from the Italian Open on Sunday could prove to be a decisive moment in the race for the world number one spot, as the top-ranked Serb prepares for his French Open title defence with Jannik Sinner poised to leapfrog him.

Novak Djokovic's shock exit from the Italian Open on Sunday could prove to be a decisive moment in the race for the world number one spot, as the top-ranked Serb prepares for his French Open title defence with Jannik Sinner poised to leapfrog him. Two days after accidentally being hit on the head by a water bottle while signing autographs in Rome, an off-colour Djokovic crashed to his earliest defeat in the tournament he has won six times after a 6-2 6-3 third-round thrashing by Alejandro Tabilo. Djokovic will remain 1,090 points ahead of Sinner before the year's second Grand Slam begins on May 26, but the 36-year-old is on shaky ground as he will be defending 2,000 points in Paris and winning the title may not be enough to stay on top. "It was a very unfortunate, unlucky situation ... that guy leaned over the fence, and the bottle dropped from his rucksack and landed on my head," Djokovic said, reflecting on the freak accident that hurt his chances to pull away from Sinner. "It was unexpected. I wasn't even looking up. Then I felt a very strong hit in the head. That has really impacted me. After that I got the medical care. Been through half-an-hour, an hour of nausea, dizziness, blood, a lot of different things." "I managed to sleep okay. I had headaches. Yesterday was fine, so I thought it's okay. Maybe it's okay. Maybe it's not. "The way I felt on the court was just completely like a different player entered into my shoes. No rhythm, no tempo, no balance whatsoever on any shot. It's a bit concerning." With only six matches on clay, Djokovic will be slightly undercooked as he heads to Paris in search of a record 25th Grand Slam title. Even if Djokovic goes on to win at Roland Garros, Sinner could rise to world number one for the first time on June 10 by reaching the championship match. Also read: Chile's Tabilo stuns tennis world with shock win over Novak Djokovic in Italian Open third round The 22-year-old Sinner, who skipped Rome with a hip injury sustained in Madrid, will be defending only 45 points in Paris but faces a race against time to be fully fit. Djokovic had endured a bumpy season even before the bottle incident as the Serb's bid for a record-extending 11th title at the Australian Open was snuffed out by eventual champion Sinner in the semi-finals. He then fell to lucky loser Luca Nardi in the Indian Wells third round before being outlasted by Casper Ruud in the Monte Carlo semi-finals, sparking fear among fans that his aura of invincibility was slowly fading. Despite winning three out of the four Grand Slams last year, Djokovic split with long-time coach Goran Ivanisevic and fitness coach Marco Panichi in a bid to rediscover his best form ahead of Roland Garros, Wimbledon and the Paris Olympics. Talk of terminal decline may still be premature and Djokovic could silence critics by winning a fourth title at the claycourt major, but he admitted things must improve fast after reaching May without a trophy for the first time since 2018. "Everything needs to be better in order for me to have at least a chance to win it," said Djokovic.

Novak Djokovic's Rome exit opens door for Jannik Sinner to attain top ranking at Roland Garros

Former player Andy Roddick has questioned Rafael Nadal's doubts over his participation at the 2024 French Open, which kicks off later this month.&nbsp;This year's French Open is likely to be Nadal's final appearance at the clay court major, the 14-time Roland Garros champion has remained tight lipped on his participation in the second Grand Slam of the year, even stating that the 'world does not end with Roland Garros'.

Amid all this, Roddick recently shared his take on Nadal's uncertainty, remaining sceptical about the possibility of the former world number one skipping the French Open and highlighting his tendency to 'underpromise and overdeliver'.

Speaking on the Served with Andy Roddick' podcast, "At the beginning of the tournament he said, ‘if I feel the way that I feel physically right now with confidence, not knowing what I have, I don’t know if I’ll play Roland Garros.’ I tend to not believe that. I think he’s the master of under promising and over delivering."

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He further opined, "During his prime, he’d be going into like the first round of Roland Garros against someone ranked like 70 in the world and be like, 'I don’t know it could go either way." Roddick added, "I used to not really believe that, I’d go like full Davenport violent eye roll when he would say it but then I honestly think he just works from a place of this could go wrong, I’m going to hustle my way to make it not so and give my best effort."

Nadal underwent a hip surgery in 2023 and missed most of the season, including the French Open. Back then, he indicated that 2024 can be his last season. He missed the Australian Open and has played just a few competitions, including the Barcelona and Madrid Open, is running against time to regain full fitness for the Roland Garros, which kicks off on May 20. He has earned direct entry into the French Open main draw via protected rankings.

Former player Andy Roddick has questioned Rafael Nadal's doubts over his participation at the 2024 French Open, which kicks off later this month. This year's French Open is likely to be Nadal's final appearance at the clay court major, the 14-time Roland Garros champion has remained tight lipped on his participation in the second Grand Slam of the year, even stating that the 'world does not end with Roland Garros'.

Former player Andy Roddick has questioned Rafael Nadal's doubts over his participation at the 2024 French Open, which kicks off later this month. This year's French Open is likely to be Nadal's final appearance at the clay court major, the 14-time Roland Garros champion has remained tight lipped on his participation in the second Grand Slam of the year, even stating that the 'world does not end with Roland Garros'. Amid all this, Roddick recently shared his take on Nadal's uncertainty, remaining sceptical about the possibility of the former world number one skipping the French Open and highlighting his tendency to 'underpromise and overdeliver'. Speaking on the Served with Andy Roddick' podcast, "At the beginning of the tournament he said, ‘if I feel the way that I feel physically right now with confidence, not knowing what I have, I don’t know if I’ll play Roland Garros.’ I tend to not believe that. I think he’s the master of under promising and over delivering." Also read: Tennis: Andrey Rublev battles ‘serious illness’ to win Madrid Open title He further opined, "During his prime, he’d be going into like the first round of Roland Garros against someone ranked like 70 in the world and be like, 'I don’t know it could go either way." Roddick added, "I used to not really believe that, I’d go like full Davenport violent eye roll when he would say it but then I honestly think he just works from a place of this could go wrong, I’m going to hustle my way to make it not so and give my best effort." Nadal underwent a hip surgery in 2023 and missed most of the season, including the French Open. Back then, he indicated that 2024 can be his last season. He missed the Australian Open and has played just a few competitions, including the Barcelona and Madrid Open, is running against time to regain full fitness for the Roland Garros, which kicks off on May 20. He has earned direct entry into the French Open main draw via protected rankings.

‘He’s master of underpromising & overdelivering’: Roddick on Nadal’s doubts about French Open participation

On Wednesday (May 1), top-seeded Jannik Sinner withdrew from the ongoing Madrid Open, in Spain, due to a hip injury. Sinner went past Karen Khachanov in the fourth round and was set to take on Felix Auger-Aliassime in the quarterfinals on Thursday (May 2).

However, he has left the tournament midway with an injury crisis -- just few weeks before the upcoming French Open.&nbsp;

<h2>'My hip has been bothering me'</h2>

World number two Sinner said on social media, "Very sad to have to withdraw from my next match here in Madrid."

"My hip has been bothering me this week and has slowly been getting more painful. Taking the advice from the doctors we decided it's best to not play further and make it worse."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-flawless-andrey-rublev-knocks-out-champion-carlos-alcaraz-to-move-into-madrid-semis-717186">Tennis: Flawless Andrey Rublev knocks out champion Carlos Alcaraz to move into Madrid semis</a>

The 22-year-old was expected to play in Rome before the French Open, which kicks off&nbsp;later this month.

However, his withdrawal seems like a wise decision as the in-form Italian player will be eager to regain full fitness ahead of the second Grand Slam of the calendar year.

It is to be noted that the 2024 Australian Open winner holds a 28-2 record this season. He&nbsp;was making his third appearance in Madrid before quitting midway with injury concerns.

With Sinner pulling out, Auger-Aliassime will play in his first ATP 1000 semifinal since Paris in 2022. The Canadian will now lock horns with either third-seeded Daniil Medvedev or 30th-seeded Jiri Lehecka.&nbsp;

Carlos Alcaraz also bowed out of the Madrid Open, on Wednesday, after losing to Russian seventh seed Andrey Rublev in the quarterfinals.

He went down&nbsp;4-6 6-3 6-2 in front of his home crowd as Rublev will now face American Taylor Fritz in Friday's semifinal clash.&nbsp;

On Wednesday (May 1), top-seeded Jannik Sinner withdrew from the ongoing Madrid Open, in Spain, due to a hip injury. Sinner went past Karen Khachanov in the fourth round and was set to take on Felix Auger-Aliassime in the quarterfinals on Thursday (May 2).

On Wednesday (May 1), top-seeded Jannik Sinner withdrew from the ongoing Madrid Open, in Spain, due to a hip injury. Sinner went past Karen Khachanov in the fourth round and was set to take on Felix Auger-Aliassime in the quarterfinals on Thursday (May 2). However, he has left the tournament midway with an injury crisis -- just few weeks before the upcoming French Open. 'My hip has been bothering me' World number two Sinner said on social media, "Very sad to have to withdraw from my next match here in Madrid." "My hip has been bothering me this week and has slowly been getting more painful. Taking the advice from the doctors we decided it's best to not play further and make it worse." Also read: Tennis: Flawless Andrey Rublev knocks out champion Carlos Alcaraz to move into Madrid semis The 22-year-old was expected to play in Rome before the French Open, which kicks off later this month. However, his withdrawal seems like a wise decision as the in-form Italian player will be eager to regain full fitness ahead of the second Grand Slam of the calendar year. It is to be noted that the 2024 Australian Open winner holds a 28-2 record this season. He was making his third appearance in Madrid before quitting midway with injury concerns. With Sinner pulling out, Auger-Aliassime will play in his first ATP 1000 semifinal since Paris in 2022. The Canadian will now lock horns with either third-seeded Daniil Medvedev or 30th-seeded Jiri Lehecka. Carlos Alcaraz also bowed out of the Madrid Open, on Wednesday, after losing to Russian seventh seed Andrey Rublev in the quarterfinals. He went down 4-6 6-3 6-2 in front of his home crowd as Rublev will now face American Taylor Fritz in Friday's semifinal clash.

Tennis: Jannik Sinner withdraws from Madrid Open with hip injury ahead of Roland Garros

Rafael Nadal's withdrawal from the Monte Carlo Masters has cast doubt over the 22-times Grand Slam champion's participation in&nbsp;the French Open, but Novak Djokovic said he is still hoping for a final chapter in their storied rivalry. The 37-year-old Spaniard, who said he expected to retire after the 2024 season, returned to competition in Brisbane in January, after almost a year sidelined with a hip flexor injury, but has not played an ATP event since.

"As a&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;fan I want him to play at least one more tournament before he retires ...," world number one Djokovic told Eurosport in an interview published on Saturday.

"We all know what he's done on clay in his career, particularly Roland Garros. "That's his goal, we all know that, he's been saying it. For the sake of all&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;and Roland Garros in particular, we hope that he can play there. It would be great to have another great encounter."

Djokovic will begin his quest for a third title in Monte Carlo on Tuesday without coach Goran Ivanisevic in his box, after ending his highly successful partnership with the Croatian last month.

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The Serbian has been working with former doubles world number one Nenad Zimonjic in recent weeks. "We have known each other really well for more than 20 years. He's been always like an older brother to me. A mentor, a friend, who always tried to help me as a person and as a player," Djokovic said.

"When I stopped with Goran, I was starting my clay-court preparation in Belgrade and he was there. He came to the court, and we really enjoyed our collaboration and I asked him to come here for a few weeks."

"We are trying to make the most of it. He's been giving me really useful advice to find the proper position when I'm approaching the net, and it's something I'm not best at because I don't play as many doubles matches," he further said.

Rafael Nadal's withdrawal from the Monte Carlo Masters has cast doubt over the 22-times Grand Slam champion's participation in the French Open, but Novak Djokovic said he is still hoping for a final chapter in their storied rivalry.

Rafael Nadal's withdrawal from the Monte Carlo Masters has cast doubt over the 22-times Grand Slam champion's participation in the French Open, but Novak Djokovic said he is still hoping for a final chapter in their storied rivalry. The 37-year-old Spaniard, who said he expected to retire after the 2024 season, returned to competition in Brisbane in January, after almost a year sidelined with a hip flexor injury, but has not played an ATP event since. "As a tennis fan I want him to play at least one more tournament before he retires ...," world number one Djokovic told Eurosport in an interview published on Saturday. "We all know what he's done on clay in his career, particularly Roland Garros. "That's his goal, we all know that, he's been saying it. For the sake of all tennis and Roland Garros in particular, we hope that he can play there. It would be great to have another great encounter." Djokovic will begin his quest for a third title in Monte Carlo on Tuesday without coach Goran Ivanisevic in his box, after ending his highly successful partnership with the Croatian last month. Also read: Major League Soccer: LAFC beat arch-rivals LA galaxy in 'El Trafico' The Serbian has been working with former doubles world number one Nenad Zimonjic in recent weeks. "We have known each other really well for more than 20 years. He's been always like an older brother to me. A mentor, a friend, who always tried to help me as a person and as a player," Djokovic said. "When I stopped with Goran, I was starting my clay-court preparation in Belgrade and he was there. He came to the court, and we really enjoyed our collaboration and I asked him to come here for a few weeks." "We are trying to make the most of it. He's been giving me really useful advice to find the proper position when I'm approaching the net, and it's something I'm not best at because I don't play as many doubles matches," he further said.

Tennis: Novak Djokovic wants last dance with arch-rival Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros

Defending champion Iga Swiatek felt the heat as she booked a French Open final spot for the third time in four years with a 6-2 7-6(7) win over Brazilian Beatriz Haddad Maia on Thursday.

The world number one found it tough going during the second set but when it came to the tiebreak, she produced her full array of shots to outwit Haddad Maia and set up a Saturday showdown with unseeded Czech Karolina Muchova.

Swiatek, who lifted the Suzanne Lenglen Cup last year and in 2020, will retain top spot in the WTA rankings after world number two Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus was knocked out earlier.

As fans waved a Polish 'Poland Garros' flag in stands that were half empty when the match started, Swiatek showed rare signs of frustrations but managed to hold it together when it mattered to prevail as the clock hit the 9pm mark.

The 14th seeded Haddad Maia, whose career has been hampered by multiple injuries and 10-month doping ban in 2019-20, had played four consecutive three-set matches to fight her way to the semi-finals but she finally met her match in Swiatek.

Swiatek's previous matches had lasted only a little over an hour each, while Haddad Maia had spent nearly 13 hours on court.

Sent scurrying right, left and centre by Swiatek, the Brazilian relied on her power to try and stop the top seed from running away with the match.

Haddad Maia broke to love in the opening game on Court Philippe Chatrier, where most of the ticket holders for a sold-out day had decided to skip the start of what turned out to be an entertaining encounter.

It did not take Swiatek long to find her groove as she stole her opponent's serve to level for 1-1. She got a second break for 4-2 when Haddad Maia netted a drop shot attempt and sealed the set with another break of serve.

It seemed that Swiatek would stroll through the second set, but Haddad Maier had other ideas.

The Brazilian picked herself up and finally gave Swiatek a run for her money, setting up two break points at 4-4 with a stunning forehand down the line.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-karolina-muchova-stuns-aryna-sabalenka-in-epic-comeback-to-reach-final-602289">French Open: Karolina Muchova stuns Aryna Sabalenka in epic comeback to reach final</a>

With two big first serves, Swiatek saved them and staved off another one before holding, forcing Haddad Maia to serve to stay in the match.

The Brazilian held on to stretch the match into the tiebreak but she wasted a set point when she buried an easy backhand into the net.

Swiatek earned her first match point with a jaw-dropping crosscourt backhand winner, which her opponent saved with a stunning forehand down the line. The Pole had a second opportunity to close out the match at 8-7 and converted it at the net before throwing her fist in into the air in relief. 
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Defending champion Iga Swiatek felt the heat as she booked a French Open final spot for the third time in four years with a 6-2 7-6(7) win over Brazilian Beatriz Haddad Maia on Thursday.

Defending champion Iga Swiatek felt the heat as she booked a French Open final spot for the third time in four years with a 6-2 7-6(7) win over Brazilian Beatriz Haddad Maia on Thursday. The world number one found it tough going during the second set but when it came to the tiebreak, she produced her full array of shots to outwit Haddad Maia and set up a Saturday showdown with unseeded Czech Karolina Muchova. Swiatek, who lifted the Suzanne Lenglen Cup last year and in 2020, will retain top spot in the WTA rankings after world number two Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus was knocked out earlier. As fans waved a Polish 'Poland Garros' flag in stands that were half empty when the match started, Swiatek showed rare signs of frustrations but managed to hold it together when it mattered to prevail as the clock hit the 9pm mark. The 14th seeded Haddad Maia, whose career has been hampered by multiple injuries and 10-month doping ban in 2019-20, had played four consecutive three-set matches to fight her way to the semi-finals but she finally met her match in Swiatek. Swiatek's previous matches had lasted only a little over an hour each, while Haddad Maia had spent nearly 13 hours on court. Sent scurrying right, left and centre by Swiatek, the Brazilian relied on her power to try and stop the top seed from running away with the match. Haddad Maia broke to love in the opening game on Court Philippe Chatrier, where most of the ticket holders for a sold-out day had decided to skip the start of what turned out to be an entertaining encounter. It did not take Swiatek long to find her groove as she stole her opponent's serve to level for 1-1. She got a second break for 4-2 when Haddad Maia netted a drop shot attempt and sealed the set with another break of serve. It seemed that Swiatek would stroll through the second set, but Haddad Maier had other ideas. The Brazilian picked herself up and finally gave Swiatek a run for her money, setting up two break points at 4-4 with a stunning forehand down the line. Also Read | French Open: Karolina Muchova stuns Aryna Sabalenka in epic comeback to reach final With two big first serves, Swiatek saved them and staved off another one before holding, forcing Haddad Maia to serve to stay in the match. The Brazilian held on to stretch the match into the tiebreak but she wasted a set point when she buried an easy backhand into the net. Swiatek earned her first match point with a jaw-dropping crosscourt backhand winner, which her opponent saved with a stunning forehand down the line. The Pole had a second opportunity to close out the match at 8-7 and converted it at the net before throwing her fist in into the air in relief. 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 ×

Iga Swiatek feels the heat but ends Haddad Maia’s run to reach Paris final

Alexander Zverev made an emotional return to the French Open semi-finals on Wednesday, one year after a horror ankle injury that sent his career into a tailspin, as Iga Swiatek set up a last-four clash with Brazilian trailblazer Beatriz Haddad Maia.

German world number 27 Zverev claimed a 6-4, 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 win over Tomas Martin Etcheverry of Argentina and will face Casper Ruud, the 2022 runner-up, for a place in Sunday's final. It will be Zverev's sixth Grand Slam semi-final and will be played on the same Philippe Chatrier Court where he suffered torn ankle ligaments against Rafael Nadal 12 months ago.

Ranked at three in the world at the time, the sobbing, screaming Zverev was taken off court in a wheelchair and was out of action until January this year.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-iga-swiatek-outclasses-coco-gauff-in-straight-sets-to-reach-semifinals-601829">French Open: Iga Swiatek outclasses Coco Gauff in straight sets to reach semifinals</a>

"That was the most difficult year of my life," said 26-year-old Zverev. "I love playing tennis and the sport and competition were taken away from me. I am so happy to be back on this stage and happy to be able to have another chance to play for a place in the final."

On Wednesday, Olympic champion and 2020 US Open runner-up Zverev broke in the seventh game of the first set and saved two break points in the eighth before going on to pocket the opener.&nbsp;

Etcheverry, ranked 49 and in the quarter-final at the majors for the first time, levelled the tie and was quickly 2-0 up in the third set.&nbsp;

But Zverev reeled off five games in a row before clinching the third set and then grabbed the key break to edge ahead 4-3 in the fourth.

<h2>Rudd reaches last four</h2>

Casper Ruud will play Alexander Zverev in the French Open semi-finals after the Norwegian fourth seed beat Denmark's Holger Rune 6-1, 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 on Wednesday. 
 
Ruud, who lost last year's Roland Garros final to Rafael Nadal, defeated sixth-ranked Rune for the fifth time in six matches and avenged his loss in the semi-finals at Rome in May.

"I kind of looked at it as though he was the favourite — he won the last time we played and he's had a better year than me so far," said Ruud. "I was feeling like the underdog even though I was seeded number four and he was seeded number six."

Ruud fended off two break points in the opening game of the match and then consistently put pressure on Rune's serve, breaking him twice in a lopsided first set. He dominated the second in similar fashion before Rune threatened a comeback as he forced a fourth set.

But Ruud surged 4-1 ahead and eventually put Rune away on his fifth match point as there was no repeat of the bad blood from last year's quarter-final.

"Luckily for me, the first two sets, he wasn't probably feeling it too well, he made a lot of errors and I got a lot of points for free," said Ruud.

"That helped settle the nerves but he fought back and third set he came out playing better. Then in the fourth set I was lucky to get that one break and keep it all the way out."

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Alexander Zverev made an emotional return to the French Open semi-finals on Wednesday, one year after a horror ankle injury that sent his career into a tailspin, as Iga Swiatek set up a last-four clash with Brazilian trailblazer Beatriz Haddad Maia.

Alexander Zverev made an emotional return to the French Open semi-finals on Wednesday, one year after a horror ankle injury that sent his career into a tailspin, as Iga Swiatek set up a last-four clash with Brazilian trailblazer Beatriz Haddad Maia. German world number 27 Zverev claimed a 6-4, 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 win over Tomas Martin Etcheverry of Argentina and will face Casper Ruud, the 2022 runner-up, for a place in Sunday's final. It will be Zverev's sixth Grand Slam semi-final and will be played on the same Philippe Chatrier Court where he suffered torn ankle ligaments against Rafael Nadal 12 months ago. Ranked at three in the world at the time, the sobbing, screaming Zverev was taken off court in a wheelchair and was out of action until January this year. ALSO READ: French Open: Iga Swiatek outclasses Coco Gauff in straight sets to reach semifinals "That was the most difficult year of my life," said 26-year-old Zverev. "I love playing tennis and the sport and competition were taken away from me. I am so happy to be back on this stage and happy to be able to have another chance to play for a place in the final." On Wednesday, Olympic champion and 2020 US Open runner-up Zverev broke in the seventh game of the first set and saved two break points in the eighth before going on to pocket the opener. Etcheverry, ranked 49 and in the quarter-final at the majors for the first time, levelled the tie and was quickly 2-0 up in the third set. But Zverev reeled off five games in a row before clinching the third set and then grabbed the key break to edge ahead 4-3 in the fourth. Rudd reaches last four Casper Ruud will play Alexander Zverev in the French Open semi-finals after the Norwegian fourth seed beat Denmark's Holger Rune 6-1, 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 on Wednesday. Ruud, who lost last year's Roland Garros final to Rafael Nadal, defeated sixth-ranked Rune for the fifth time in six matches and avenged his loss in the semi-finals at Rome in May. "I kind of looked at it as though he was the favourite — he won the last time we played and he's had a better year than me so far," said Ruud. "I was feeling like the underdog even though I was seeded number four and he was seeded number six." Ruud fended off two break points in the opening game of the match and then consistently put pressure on Rune's serve, breaking him twice in a lopsided first set. He dominated the second in similar fashion before Rune threatened a comeback as he forced a fourth set. But Ruud surged 4-1 ahead and eventually put Rune away on his fifth match point as there was no repeat of the bad blood from last year's quarter-final. "Luckily for me, the first two sets, he wasn't probably feeling it too well, he made a lot of errors and I got a lot of points for free," said Ruud. "That helped settle the nerves but he fought back and third set he came out playing better. Then in the fourth set I was lucky to get that one break and keep it all the way out." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

French Open 2023: Alexander Zverev sets up blockbuster semis clash with Casper Ruud

Holder Iga Swiatek was tested by American sixth seed Coco Gauff in a rematch of their 2022 French Open title clash but the world number one showed her class to secure a 6-4 6-2 victory and reach the semi-finals on Wednesday (June 7).

The top seed will take on Brazil's Beatriz Haddad Maia in the last four as she continues her bid for a third crown in four years at Roland Garros and her fourth Grand Slam title overall.

Swiatek has adopted a more ruthless approach to her title defence dishing out four bagels in as many rounds but the Pole found the going tougher against a determined Gauff in the see-sawing opening set on Court Philippe Chatrier.

After drawing first blood, she allowed Gauff to hit back and level up at 3-3 by crashing a volley into the net before getting back on track to take the advantage in the clash with a superb crosscourt winner.

The relieved 22-year-old pumped her fist and let out a big scream after that decisive point.

Swiatek took a tumble at the net after nearly being struck by a Gauff rocket before producing a tight hold for a 2-1 lead in the next set and dusted herself off to grab another break with a perfectly placed lob.

She settled the contest by pouncing on Gauff's serve again and finished when the 19-year-old found the net.

Haddad Maia left seventh seed Ons Jabeur's hopes of becoming the first African woman to win a singles Grand Slam in ruins after a 3-6 7-6(5) 6-1 victory.

Jabeur was bidding to reach her third Grand Slam semi-final in less than a year but her plans were scuppered by the 14th-seeded left-hander who battled back bravely to book her own maiden last four Slam appearance.

She is the first Brazilian woman since Maria Bueno in 1968 to reach a Slam semi-final and the first female player from her country to book a last four spot at Roland Garros in the Open Era.

The Tunisian, a finalist in Wimbledon and the U.S. Open last year, bagged a couple of quick breaks at the start to move into the driving seat with Haddad Maia having trouble dealing with her opponent's flat groundstrokes.

The Brazilian, having already become the first woman from her country in 55 years to reach the quarter-finals at a Grand Slam, decided to run Jabeur instead.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-virat-kohli-hopes-for-another-rohit-sharma-century-at-the-oval-601649">WTC Final: Virat Kohli hopes for another Rohit Sharma century at the Oval</a>

The Tunisian then deployed her much-feared weapon, plopping drop shots over the net with Haddad Maia quickly going 4-1 down.

Jabeur served out the first set a little later with the left hander sending a forehand wide on the first set point.

Both players held serve without conceding a single break point until 5-5 when Jabeur went 40-15 up on Haddad Maia's serve but failed to convert either.

Her opponent also wasted a chance in the next game but levelled after winning the tiebreak.

She then raced to a 5-1 lead with Jabeur sending an easy forehand long on her opponent's first match point.

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Holder Iga Swiatek was tested by American sixth seed Coco Gauff in a rematch of their 2022 French Open title clash but the world number one showed her class to secure a 6-4 6-2 victory and reach the semi-finals on Wednesday (June 7).

Holder Iga Swiatek was tested by American sixth seed Coco Gauff in a rematch of their 2022 French Open title clash but the world number one showed her class to secure a 6-4 6-2 victory and reach the semi-finals on Wednesday (June 7). The top seed will take on Brazil's Beatriz Haddad Maia in the last four as she continues her bid for a third crown in four years at Roland Garros and her fourth Grand Slam title overall. Swiatek has adopted a more ruthless approach to her title defence dishing out four bagels in as many rounds but the Pole found the going tougher against a determined Gauff in the see-sawing opening set on Court Philippe Chatrier. After drawing first blood, she allowed Gauff to hit back and level up at 3-3 by crashing a volley into the net before getting back on track to take the advantage in the clash with a superb crosscourt winner. The relieved 22-year-old pumped her fist and let out a big scream after that decisive point. Swiatek took a tumble at the net after nearly being struck by a Gauff rocket before producing a tight hold for a 2-1 lead in the next set and dusted herself off to grab another break with a perfectly placed lob. She settled the contest by pouncing on Gauff's serve again and finished when the 19-year-old found the net. Haddad Maia left seventh seed Ons Jabeur's hopes of becoming the first African woman to win a singles Grand Slam in ruins after a 3-6 7-6(5) 6-1 victory. Jabeur was bidding to reach her third Grand Slam semi-final in less than a year but her plans were scuppered by the 14th-seeded left-hander who battled back bravely to book her own maiden last four Slam appearance. She is the first Brazilian woman since Maria Bueno in 1968 to reach a Slam semi-final and the first female player from her country to book a last four spot at Roland Garros in the Open Era. The Tunisian, a finalist in Wimbledon and the U.S. Open last year, bagged a couple of quick breaks at the start to move into the driving seat with Haddad Maia having trouble dealing with her opponent's flat groundstrokes. The Brazilian, having already become the first woman from her country in 55 years to reach the quarter-finals at a Grand Slam, decided to run Jabeur instead. ALSO READ | WTC Final: Virat Kohli hopes for another Rohit Sharma century at the Oval The Tunisian then deployed her much-feared weapon, plopping drop shots over the net with Haddad Maia quickly going 4-1 down. Jabeur served out the first set a little later with the left hander sending a forehand wide on the first set point. Both players held serve without conceding a single break point until 5-5 when Jabeur went 40-15 up on Haddad Maia's serve but failed to convert either. Her opponent also wasted a chance in the next game but levelled after winning the tiebreak. She then raced to a 5-1 lead with Jabeur sending an easy forehand long on her opponent's first match point. 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.

French Open: Iga Swiatek outclasses Coco Gauff in straight sets to reach semifinals

The French Open 2023 is living up to expectations. As we have entered the final week, there are a plethora of big-ticket games lined-up. French Open 2021 runners-up Stefanos Tsitsipas has progressed into the last eight and is set to lock horns with current world number one Carlos Alcaraz, which promises to be an enthralling battle between the two youngsters.

Ahead of the battle, Tsitsipas spoke at length about the upcoming quarter-final face-off. It is to be noted that Alcaraz&nbsp;holds an impressive 4-0 ATP head-to-head record against the Greek player.&nbsp;However, the 24-year-old is up for the challenge this time around.&nbsp;

"The clash we've all been waiting for," said&nbsp;Tsitsipas during his press conference after a dominant straight-set&nbsp;win over Sebastian Ofner. On being asked to elaborate, Tsitsipas added: "I think I said everything I had to say. I think everyone was expecting it, weren't they? And it's here. It's game on."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-world-number-seven-ons-jabeur-swats-aside-bernanda-pera-to-enter-french-open-quarter-finals-600844">Tennis: World number seven Ons Jabeur swats aside Bernanda Pera to enter French Open quarter-finals</a>

Since their first-ever meeting, Alcaraz has continued to climb up the ladder whereas Tsitsipas is still searching for his maiden Grand Slam title. The two locked horns in the 2021&nbsp;US Open where the Spaniard defeated Tsitsipas to become the first man&nbsp;to brush aside&nbsp;a top-three-ranked player in singles at the tournament since the inception of the ATP rankings in 1973.&nbsp;

Both Alcaraz and Tsitsipas have contrasting playing styles. The contest promises to be an engaging battle as the race for the title has intensified. Novak Djokovic, another strong contender, will also be in action on Tuesday (June 06), before the Alcaraz-Tsitsipas face-off, as he is up against Russia's&nbsp;Karen Khachanov in the quarters.&nbsp;

Alcaraz and Tsitsipas will come face-to-face later in the day.

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The French Open 2023 is living up to expectations. As we have entered the final week, there are a plethora of big-ticket games lined-up. French Open 2021 runners-up Stefanos Tsitsipas has progressed into the last eight and is set to lock horns with current world number one Carlos Alcaraz, which promises to be an enthralling battle between the two youngsters.

The French Open 2023 is living up to expectations. As we have entered the final week, there are a plethora of big-ticket games lined-up. French Open 2021 runners-up Stefanos Tsitsipas has progressed into the last eight and is set to lock horns with current world number one Carlos Alcaraz, which promises to be an enthralling battle between the two youngsters. Ahead of the battle, Tsitsipas spoke at length about the upcoming quarter-final face-off. It is to be noted that Alcaraz holds an impressive 4-0 ATP head-to-head record against the Greek player. However, the 24-year-old is up for the challenge this time around. "The clash we've all been waiting for," said Tsitsipas during his press conference after a dominant straight-set win over Sebastian Ofner. On being asked to elaborate, Tsitsipas added: "I think I said everything I had to say. I think everyone was expecting it, weren't they? And it's here. It's game on." Also Read: Tennis: World number seven Ons Jabeur swats aside Bernanda Pera to enter French Open quarter-finals Since their first-ever meeting, Alcaraz has continued to climb up the ladder whereas Tsitsipas is still searching for his maiden Grand Slam title. The two locked horns in the 2021 US Open where the Spaniard defeated Tsitsipas to become the first man to brush aside a top-three-ranked player in singles at the tournament since the inception of the ATP rankings in 1973. Both Alcaraz and Tsitsipas have contrasting playing styles. The contest promises to be an engaging battle as the race for the title has intensified. Novak Djokovic, another strong contender, will also be in action on Tuesday (June 06), before the Alcaraz-Tsitsipas face-off, as he is up against Russia's Karen Khachanov in the quarters. Alcaraz and Tsitsipas will come face-to-face later in the day. 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: 'Clash we have all been waiting for' - Tsitsipas geared up for Alcaraz face-off in French Open QFs

Ons Jabeur was a woman in a hurry at the French Open on Monday, as the seventh seed eased into the Roland Garros quarter-finals for the first time with a 6-3 6-1 win over American Bernarda Pera in bright sunshine. Jabeur's season has steadily gathered steam in Paris after the Tunisian world number seven had minor knee surgery earlier in the year and skipped the Madrid Open due to a calf problem following her run to the Charleston crown.

The 28-year-old breezed to a 4-1 lead in the opening set even as many Court Philippe Chatrier ticket-holders were making their way past the turnstiles and closed it out in 35 minutes with her fifth break of serve. Pera beat Jabeur in their last meeting on the hardcourts of Guangzhou in 2019 but the left-hander struggled to cope with her tricky opponent's clay prowess and did not help her own cause with errors in her maiden last 16 appearance in a Grand Slam.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-2023-pair-of-miyu-kato-aldila-sutjiadi-got-disqualified-after-ballgirl-got-hit-during-the-match-600440">French Open 2023: Miyu Kato, Aldila Sutjiadi disqualified after accidently hitting ballgirl during match</a>

Jabeur tightened her grip on the contest by blending power, precision and guile in the next set to close out the victory in just over an hour.

The Tunisian, who is eyeing a first Grand Slam title after falling short in the Wimbledon and U.S. Open finals last year, will take on Sara Sorribes Tormo or 14th seed Beatriz Haddad Maia who face off later in the day.

Ons Jabeur was a woman in a hurry at the French Open on Monday, as the seventh seed eased into the Roland Garros quarter-finals for the first time with a 6-3 6-1 win over American Bernarda Pera in bright sunshine.

Ons Jabeur was a woman in a hurry at the French Open on Monday, as the seventh seed eased into the Roland Garros quarter-finals for the first time with a 6-3 6-1 win over American Bernarda Pera in bright sunshine. Jabeur's season has steadily gathered steam in Paris after the Tunisian world number seven had minor knee surgery earlier in the year and skipped the Madrid Open due to a calf problem following her run to the Charleston crown. The 28-year-old breezed to a 4-1 lead in the opening set even as many Court Philippe Chatrier ticket-holders were making their way past the turnstiles and closed it out in 35 minutes with her fifth break of serve. Pera beat Jabeur in their last meeting on the hardcourts of Guangzhou in 2019 but the left-hander struggled to cope with her tricky opponent's clay prowess and did not help her own cause with errors in her maiden last 16 appearance in a Grand Slam. Also Read: French Open 2023: Miyu Kato, Aldila Sutjiadi disqualified after accidently hitting ballgirl during match Jabeur tightened her grip on the contest by blending power, precision and guile in the next set to close out the victory in just over an hour. The Tunisian, who is eyeing a first Grand Slam title after falling short in the Wimbledon and U.S. Open finals last year, will take on Sara Sorribes Tormo or 14th seed Beatriz Haddad Maia who face off later in the day.

Tennis: World number seven Ons Jabeur swats aside Bernanda Pera to enter French Open quarter-finals

Former World number one Novak Djokovic booked his place in the Round of 16 of the ongoing French Open 2023 as he overcame a stern challenge from Alejandro Davidovich Fokina of Spain. Djokovic with the win has sealed his place in the R16 for the 14th consecutive year and will look to win a record-breaking 23rd Grand Slam title in Paris. The Serb is one of the favourites to win the tournament and needed two tiebreaks before he won the contest with scores of 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (7/5), 6-2.

<h2>What happened in the contest?</h2>

Djokovic, seeded third in the tournament was taken to the limits by his Spanish opponents but eventually prevailed 7-4 in the tiebreak. The Spaniard then took the second set by storm as well but again was short of the target as the Serb sealed the second set 7-5. The third set was no teaser for the former two-time champion in Paris who won 6-2 to seal a place in the Round of 16.

"I knew it would be a difficult and physical match. We played three hours just for the first two sets. I thought if I lost the second set that we would play for five hours," said Djokovic.

"He's an amazing fighter and there aren't many weaknesses in his game.

"But a win is a win and I am very proud of the way I played today."

He will next face either Hubert Hurkacz or Peru's Juan Pablo Varillas for a place in the quarterfinal on Sunday.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-against-india-is-our-grand-finale-ahead-of-ashes-2023-says-australian-spinner-nathan-lyon-599610">WTC final against India is our grand-finale ahead of Ashes 2023, says Australian spinner Nathan Lyon</a>

Djokovic claimed the breaker and bellowed at the crowd. Some spectators then jeered him as he argued with the umpire before calling a medical timeout for treatment on his left thigh.

The Serb, in return, gave the Court Philippe Chatrier fans a sarcastic thumbs up and a round of applause.

Djokovic stretched out to a commanding 3-0 lead in the decider and briefly won back the affection of the crowd when he helped his opponent courtside after a nasty fall.

A win in Paris for Djokovic will see him become the most successful men’s singles tennis player with 23 Grand Slam titles. He will surpass Rafael Nadal’s tally of 22 Grand Slam titles while he will be one short of Margaret Court’s singles record of 24 titles.

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Former World number one Novak Djokovic booked his place in the Round of 16 of the ongoing French Open 2023 as he overcame a stern challenge from Alejandro Davidovich Fokina of Spain.

Former World number one Novak Djokovic booked his place in the Round of 16 of the ongoing French Open 2023 as he overcame a stern challenge from Alejandro Davidovich Fokina of Spain. Djokovic with the win has sealed his place in the R16 for the 14th consecutive year and will look to win a record-breaking 23rd Grand Slam title in Paris. The Serb is one of the favourites to win the tournament and needed two tiebreaks before he won the contest with scores of 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (7/5), 6-2. What happened in the contest? Djokovic, seeded third in the tournament was taken to the limits by his Spanish opponents but eventually prevailed 7-4 in the tiebreak. The Spaniard then took the second set by storm as well but again was short of the target as the Serb sealed the second set 7-5. The third set was no teaser for the former two-time champion in Paris who won 6-2 to seal a place in the Round of 16. "I knew it would be a difficult and physical match. We played three hours just for the first two sets. I thought if I lost the second set that we would play for five hours," said Djokovic. "He's an amazing fighter and there aren't many weaknesses in his game. "But a win is a win and I am very proud of the way I played today." He will next face either Hubert Hurkacz or Peru's Juan Pablo Varillas for a place in the quarterfinal on Sunday. ALSO READ | WTC final against India is our grand-finale ahead of Ashes 2023, says Australian spinner Nathan Lyon Djokovic claimed the breaker and bellowed at the crowd. Some spectators then jeered him as he argued with the umpire before calling a medical timeout for treatment on his left thigh. The Serb, in return, gave the Court Philippe Chatrier fans a sarcastic thumbs up and a round of applause. Djokovic stretched out to a commanding 3-0 lead in the decider and briefly won back the affection of the crowd when he helped his opponent courtside after a nasty fall. A win in Paris for Djokovic will see him become the most successful men’s singles tennis player with 23 Grand Slam titles. He will surpass Rafael Nadal’s tally of 22 Grand Slam titles while he will be one short of Margaret Court’s singles record of 24 titles. 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.

French Open: Novak Djokovic seals R16 berth for 16th successive year, overcomes Alejandro Fokina's challenge

World number three Jessica Pegula's hopes of hoisting her maiden Grand Slam trophy ended in despair on Friday after a 6-1 6-3 defeat by Belgian Elise Mertens in the French Open third round. The 29-year-old Pegula had no answer to Mertens' versatile game. Former doubles world number one Mertens used her complete arsenal of shots, including sliced forehands, drop shots, lobs and deep groundstrokes to move her opponent around and pin her back.

Mertens, ranked 28th, was near flawless at the start, breaking the American twice in a row to race to a 5-0 lead and bag the first set in just 26 minutes. Pegula, who had advanced into the third round after her ailing Italian opponent Camila Giorgi retired after the first set, broke Mertens early in the second but the Belgian responded in the next game.

Pegula earned another rare break point at 3-2 but sunk a three consecutive backhands into the net. The 27-year-old Belgian took advantage of Pegula's low first serve percentage to break her again and move 5-3 clear, leaving the frustrated American to shake her head and look at her coaching box for any help. Her ordeal was over after 82 minutes with her 28th unforced error.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-swiatek-powers-into-round-three-sinner-dumped-out-by-world-no-79-altmaier-599284">French Open: Swiatek powers into round three; Sinner dumped out by world no. 79 Altmaier</a>

Aryna Sabalenka wasted no time as she whizzed into the fourth round of the French Open with a 6-2 6-2 drubbing of Kamilla Rakhimova of Russia on Friday. Strong on serve, the world number two broke twice in the opening set and raced to a 3-0 lead in the second on a sunbathed court Philippe Chatrier to set up a meeting with American Sloane Stephens or Yulia Putintseva of Kazakhstan.

Sabalenka, who beat world number one Iga Swiatek in the Madrid Open final last month, has yet to lose a set in the tournament and has now broken her third-round loss streak in Paris. The Belarusian, whose run at Roland Garros was stopped at that stage in the three previous editions, was always in control and despite some minor blips, faced only one break point - which she saved with a second-serve ace.

"It feels amazing to feel the support and just to be on this court and have the opportunity to play&nbsp;tennis," the Australian Open champion said after an encounter that lasted a little over an hour. "Every tournament is different, Roland Garros is especially different from the Australian Open because of the surface but winning gives you confidence."

World number three Jessica Pegula's hopes of hoisting her maiden Grand Slam trophy ended in despair on Friday after a 6-1 6-3 defeat by Belgian Elise Mertens in the French Open third round.

World number three Jessica Pegula's hopes of hoisting her maiden Grand Slam trophy ended in despair on Friday after a 6-1 6-3 defeat by Belgian Elise Mertens in the French Open third round. The 29-year-old Pegula had no answer to Mertens' versatile game. Former doubles world number one Mertens used her complete arsenal of shots, including sliced forehands, drop shots, lobs and deep groundstrokes to move her opponent around and pin her back. Mertens, ranked 28th, was near flawless at the start, breaking the American twice in a row to race to a 5-0 lead and bag the first set in just 26 minutes. Pegula, who had advanced into the third round after her ailing Italian opponent Camila Giorgi retired after the first set, broke Mertens early in the second but the Belgian responded in the next game. Pegula earned another rare break point at 3-2 but sunk a three consecutive backhands into the net. The 27-year-old Belgian took advantage of Pegula's low first serve percentage to break her again and move 5-3 clear, leaving the frustrated American to shake her head and look at her coaching box for any help. Her ordeal was over after 82 minutes with her 28th unforced error. Also Read: French Open: Swiatek powers into round three; Sinner dumped out by world no. 79 Altmaier Aryna Sabalenka wasted no time as she whizzed into the fourth round of the French Open with a 6-2 6-2 drubbing of Kamilla Rakhimova of Russia on Friday. Strong on serve, the world number two broke twice in the opening set and raced to a 3-0 lead in the second on a sunbathed court Philippe Chatrier to set up a meeting with American Sloane Stephens or Yulia Putintseva of Kazakhstan. Sabalenka, who beat world number one Iga Swiatek in the Madrid Open final last month, has yet to lose a set in the tournament and has now broken her third-round loss streak in Paris. The Belarusian, whose run at Roland Garros was stopped at that stage in the three previous editions, was always in control and despite some minor blips, faced only one break point - which she saved with a second-serve ace. "It feels amazing to feel the support and just to be on this court and have the opportunity to play tennis," the Australian Open champion said after an encounter that lasted a little over an hour. "Every tournament is different, Roland Garros is especially different from the Australian Open because of the surface but winning gives you confidence."

French Open: Pegula's maiden Grand Slam title hopes ends with loss to Mertens, Sabalenka enters R4

World number one Carlos Alcaraz overcame a second set blip to defeat Japan's Taro Daniel and reach the French Open last 32 on Wednesday. The Spanish star came through 6-1, 3-6, 6-1, 6-2 against his 112th-ranked opponent and will face Canada's Denis Shapovalov for a place in the fourth round. Alcaraz, 20, is bidding to add the Roland Garros title to the US Open he won in 2022.

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👋👋👋<a href="https://twitter.com/carlosalcaraz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@carlosalcaraz</a> moves past Daniel 6-1, 3-6, 6-1, 6-2<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> <a href="https://t.co/YedqJCooqA">pic.twitter.com/YedqJCooqA</a>
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/status/1663952058494353410?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Alcaraz through to Last 32</h2>

"I'm very happy with my level. The wind meant conditions were really difficult so I had to adjust as much as possible, I was very focused on each shot," said Alcaraz.

The match on Wednesday gave Alcaraz a 22nd win from 24 on clay in 2023, a run which has yielded titles on the surface in Buenos Aires, Madrid and Barcelona.

"Taro was playing great. He is a really tough player and this year he has won matches against great players," said Alcaraz who is top seed at a Grand Slam for the first time.

On Wednesday, he fired 46 winners past New York-born Daniel.

Shapovalov, the 26th seed, saw off Italy's Matteo Arnaldi in four sets to reach the third round in Paris for the first time.

<h2>Wawrinka knocked out</h2>

Thanasi Kokkinakis knocked 38-year-old Stan Wawrinka out of the French Open on Wednesday in a five-set rollercoaster to book a third round place at Roland Garros for the first time since 2015.

Australian world number 108 Kokkinakis came through 3-6, 7-5, 6-3, 6-7 (4/7), 6-3 in four hours and 38 minutes against the 2015 champion.

"I feel better now that I've won," said the 27-year-old after securing victory on a fifth match point.&nbsp;

"What a match. I know Stan is getting older but in the first set he was playing the best. I was nowhere, just hanging in."

Kokkinakis, who described Wawrinka, a three-time major winner, as a "legend" of the sport, last made the third round in Paris eight years ago when he was just 19.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-shouldve-played-odi-wc-2019-anil-kumble-recalls-csk-star-ambati-rayudus-shocking-omission-598771">'He should've played ODI WC 2019': Anil Kumble recalls CSK star Ambati Rayudu's shocking omission</a>

However, he has been plagued by physical and medical problems with a shoulder injury limiting him to just one singles match from November 2015 until May 2017.

He then missed the entire 2020 season due to mono before undergoing surgery on his sinuses in 2022.

"I've had a pretty crazy story. I came on the scene when I was pretty young, looked like I was set for a big future but I went missing for a few years," he said.

Kokkinakis will take on either Russian 11th seed Karen Khachanov or Moldova's Radu Albot for a place in the last 16.

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World number one Carlos Alcaraz overcame a second set blip to defeat Japan's Taro Daniel and reach the French Open last 32 on Wednesday. The Spanish star came through 6-1, 3-6, 6-1, 6-2 against his 112th-ranked opponent and will face Canada's Denis Shapovalov for a place in the fourth round.

World number one Carlos Alcaraz overcame a second set blip to defeat Japan's Taro Daniel and reach the French Open last 32 on Wednesday. The Spanish star came through 6-1, 3-6, 6-1, 6-2 against his 112th-ranked opponent and will face Canada's Denis Shapovalov for a place in the fourth round. Alcaraz, 20, is bidding to add the Roland Garros title to the US Open he won in 2022. 👋👋👋@carlosalcaraz moves past Daniel 6-1, 3-6, 6-1, 6-2#RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/YedqJCooqA — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) May 31, 2023 × Alcaraz through to Last 32 "I'm very happy with my level. The wind meant conditions were really difficult so I had to adjust as much as possible, I was very focused on each shot," said Alcaraz. The match on Wednesday gave Alcaraz a 22nd win from 24 on clay in 2023, a run which has yielded titles on the surface in Buenos Aires, Madrid and Barcelona. "Taro was playing great. He is a really tough player and this year he has won matches against great players," said Alcaraz who is top seed at a Grand Slam for the first time. On Wednesday, he fired 46 winners past New York-born Daniel. Shapovalov, the 26th seed, saw off Italy's Matteo Arnaldi in four sets to reach the third round in Paris for the first time. Wawrinka knocked out Thanasi Kokkinakis knocked 38-year-old Stan Wawrinka out of the French Open on Wednesday in a five-set rollercoaster to book a third round place at Roland Garros for the first time since 2015. Australian world number 108 Kokkinakis came through 3-6, 7-5, 6-3, 6-7 (4/7), 6-3 in four hours and 38 minutes against the 2015 champion. "I feel better now that I've won," said the 27-year-old after securing victory on a fifth match point. "What a match. I know Stan is getting older but in the first set he was playing the best. I was nowhere, just hanging in." Kokkinakis, who described Wawrinka, a three-time major winner, as a "legend" of the sport, last made the third round in Paris eight years ago when he was just 19. ALSO READ | 'He should've played ODI WC 2019': Anil Kumble recalls CSK star Ambati Rayudu's shocking omission However, he has been plagued by physical and medical problems with a shoulder injury limiting him to just one singles match from November 2015 until May 2017. He then missed the entire 2020 season due to mono before undergoing surgery on his sinuses in 2022. "I've had a pretty crazy story. I came on the scene when I was pretty young, looked like I was set for a big future but I went missing for a few years," he said. Kokkinakis will take on either Russian 11th seed Karen Khachanov or Moldova's Radu Albot for a place in the last 16. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

French Open: Alcaraz overcomes wobble to reach last 32; Wawrinka knocked out by Kokkinakis

Italian eighth seed Jannik Sinner missed two match points before being knocked out of the French Open in the second round on Thursday by German Daniel Altmaier after a dramatic five-set battle.

Altmaier, the world number 79, twice staved off match points late in the fourth set before eventually prevailing 6-7 (0/7), 7-6 (9/7), 1-6, 7-6 (7/4), 7-5 after five hours and 26&nbsp;minutes on Court Suzanne Lenglen.

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BATTLE ROYALE 👏 
 
5 hours and 26 mins later, <a href="https://twitter.com/daniel_altmaier?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@daniel_altmaier</a> outlasts Sinner in an epic 7-6(0), 7-6(7), 6-1, 7-6(4), 7-5 to make the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> third round. <a href="https://t.co/v6EeOd1WFk">pic.twitter.com/v6EeOd1WFk</a>
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/status/1664306449298669569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The pair also played a five-set match in the US Open first round last year, when Sinner was the victor.

Altmaier will take on Grigor Dimitrov for a spot in the second week.

The 24-year-old twice averted defeat when Sinner was serving for a last-32 place in set four before winning the third tie-break of the match.

Altmaier, who reached the fourth round in 2020, broke in game seven of the decider but then also failed to serve it out.

He immediately gave himself another chance, though, and this time crept over the line as he secured a surprise win on his fifth match point after a thrilling final game in which he also saved three break points.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-how-can-beat-india-beat-australia-and-win-the-world-test-championship-final-599154">EXPLAINED - How can India beat Australia and win the World Test Championship Final</a>

<h2>Swiatek reaches next round</h2>

Reigning champion Iga Swiatek maintained her bid to become the first woman to successfully defend the French Open title in 16 years by cruising into the third round on Thursday.

The world number one crushed American Claire Liu 6-4, 6-0 on Court Philippe Chatrier.

Swiatek, who turned 22 on Wednesday, will face China's Wang Xinyu on Saturday for a place in the second week.

The Polish star could lose her world number one ranking for the first time in over a year next week if she fails to lift a fourth Grand Slam singles title.

Justine Henin was the last woman to win back-to-back Roland Garros titles when she lifted her third in a row and fourth in total in 2007.

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Italian eighth seed Jannik Sinner missed two match points before being knocked out of the French Open in the second round on Thursday by German Daniel Altmaier after a dramatic five-set battle.

Italian eighth seed Jannik Sinner missed two match points before being knocked out of the French Open in the second round on Thursday by German Daniel Altmaier after a dramatic five-set battle. Altmaier, the world number 79, twice staved off match points late in the fourth set before eventually prevailing 6-7 (0/7), 7-6 (9/7), 1-6, 7-6 (7/4), 7-5 after five hours and 26 minutes on Court Suzanne Lenglen. BATTLE ROYALE 👏 5 hours and 26 mins later, @daniel_altmaier outlasts Sinner in an epic 7-6(0), 7-6(7), 6-1, 7-6(4), 7-5 to make the #RolandGarros third round. pic.twitter.com/v6EeOd1WFk — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 1, 2023 × The pair also played a five-set match in the US Open first round last year, when Sinner was the victor. Altmaier will take on Grigor Dimitrov for a spot in the second week. The 24-year-old twice averted defeat when Sinner was serving for a last-32 place in set four before winning the third tie-break of the match. Altmaier, who reached the fourth round in 2020, broke in game seven of the decider but then also failed to serve it out. He immediately gave himself another chance, though, and this time crept over the line as he secured a surprise win on his fifth match point after a thrilling final game in which he also saved three break points. ALSO READ | EXPLAINED - How can India beat Australia and win the World Test Championship Final Swiatek reaches next round Reigning champion Iga Swiatek maintained her bid to become the first woman to successfully defend the French Open title in 16 years by cruising into the third round on Thursday. The world number one crushed American Claire Liu 6-4, 6-0 on Court Philippe Chatrier. Swiatek, who turned 22 on Wednesday, will face China's Wang Xinyu on Saturday for a place in the second week. The Polish star could lose her world number one ranking for the first time in over a year next week if she fails to lift a fourth Grand Slam singles title. Justine Henin was the last woman to win back-to-back Roland Garros titles when she lifted her third in a row and fourth in total in 2007. 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.

French Open: Swiatek powers into round three; Sinner dumped out by world no. 79 Altmaier

Novak Djokovic brushed aside the furore surrounding his comments about clashes in Kosovo by easing into the French Open third round on Wednesday with a straight-sets win over Marton Fucsovics.&nbsp;

Djokovic, who is chasing a men's record 23rd Grand Slam singles title at Roland Garros, came through a marathon first set against Hungarian Fucsovics before prevailing 7-6 (7/2), 6-0, 6-3 in the night session on Court Philippe Chatrier.&nbsp;

He will next face Spanish 29th seed Alejandro Davidovich Fokina for a fourth-round place on Friday.

There was plenty of drama during an 87-minute opening set which saw Djokovic broken while he was serving for it.&nbsp;

But eight previous break points saved proved key for the third seed as he went on to dominate a tie-break.&nbsp;

World number 83 Fucsovics could not maintain his level, though, as the 36-year-old Djokovic raced through the next seven games.&nbsp;

Fucsovics rallied by breaking back early in the third set and again when Djokovic served for the match.&nbsp;

But Djokovic wrapped up victory in the next game on his second match point.&nbsp;

The Serb has still not failed to reach the third round of a Grand Slam tournament since the 2017 Australian Open.&nbsp; 
 
 
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Novak Djokovic brushed aside the furore surrounding his comments about clashes in Kosovo by easing into the French Open third round on Wednesday with a straight-sets win over Marton Fucsovics.

Novak Djokovic brushed aside the furore surrounding his comments about clashes in Kosovo by easing into the French Open third round on Wednesday with a straight-sets win over Marton Fucsovics. Djokovic, who is chasing a men's record 23rd Grand Slam singles title at Roland Garros, came through a marathon first set against Hungarian Fucsovics before prevailing 7-6 (7/2), 6-0, 6-3 in the night session on Court Philippe Chatrier. He will next face Spanish 29th seed Alejandro Davidovich Fokina for a fourth-round place on Friday. There was plenty of drama during an 87-minute opening set which saw Djokovic broken while he was serving for it. But eight previous break points saved proved key for the third seed as he went on to dominate a tie-break. World number 83 Fucsovics could not maintain his level, though, as the 36-year-old Djokovic raced through the next seven games. Fucsovics rallied by breaking back early in the third set and again when Djokovic served for the match. But Djokovic wrapped up victory in the next game on his second match point. The Serb has still not failed to reach the third round of a Grand Slam tournament since the 2017 Australian 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.

Djokovic brushes aside Kosovo row to reach French Open last 32

Fourth seed Elena Rybakina booked her third-round spot with a 6-3 6-3 victory over rising Czech teenager Linda Noskova on Thursday, confirming her status as one of the front-runners for the title. The Wimbledon champion, who also reached this year's Australian Open final, did not take long to pull away with a break in the third game when Noskova, ranked 50th, fired a backhand into the net.

But the 18-year-old, no stranger to the Paris clay after winning the French Open junior title two years, refused to go down without a fight but paid the price for some risky plays and a double fault on her serve at 40-40 and 5-3 down. Rybakina, a member of the new 'Big three' along with fellow title contenders, world number one Iga Swiatek and second seed Aryna Sabalenka, struggled with Noskova's powerful serve and thundering forehand.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-2023-novak-djokovic-says-its-what-i-stand-for-in-kosovo-heart-of-serbia-row-598972">French Open 2023: Novak Djokovic says 'it's what I stand for' in Kosovo 'heart of Serbia' row</a>

It was instead Noskova who carved out two break points at 3-3 but Rybakina, who won the title at Indian Wells and Rome this season while also reaching the final at the Miami Open, saved them both.

She responded in kind at the very next game to break Noskova and go 5-3 up before clinching the match with an ace on her fourth match point.

Fourth seed Elena Rybakina booked her third-round spot with a 6-3 6-3 victory over rising Czech teenager Linda Noskova on Thursday, confirming her status as one of the front-runners for the title.

Fourth seed Elena Rybakina booked her third-round spot with a 6-3 6-3 victory over rising Czech teenager Linda Noskova on Thursday, confirming her status as one of the front-runners for the title. The Wimbledon champion, who also reached this year's Australian Open final, did not take long to pull away with a break in the third game when Noskova, ranked 50th, fired a backhand into the net. But the 18-year-old, no stranger to the Paris clay after winning the French Open junior title two years, refused to go down without a fight but paid the price for some risky plays and a double fault on her serve at 40-40 and 5-3 down. Rybakina, a member of the new 'Big three' along with fellow title contenders, world number one Iga Swiatek and second seed Aryna Sabalenka, struggled with Noskova's powerful serve and thundering forehand. Also read: French Open 2023: Novak Djokovic says 'it's what I stand for' in Kosovo 'heart of Serbia' row It was instead Noskova who carved out two break points at 3-3 but Rybakina, who won the title at Indian Wells and Rome this season while also reaching the final at the Miami Open, saved them both. She responded in kind at the very next game to break Noskova and go 5-3 up before clinching the match with an ace on her fourth match point.

French Open: Title contender Elena Rybakina marches past teenager Linda Noskova into third round

French hopes of a Roland Garros singles' champion were all but extinguished as Russian Anna Blinkova sent fifth seed Caroline Garcia tumbling out with a 4-6 6-3 7-5 second-round victory on Wednesday (May 31). Blinkova, who had already knocked Garcia out in Paris in 2019, prevailed on her ninth match point to end a tussle that lasted nearly three hours. The world number 56 double faulted twice on match point as nerves got to her, but she eventually ended it with a powerful serve to set up a meeting with Ukraine's Elina Svitolina.

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🚨 Upset alert 🚨 
 
Blinkova takes down seed No.5 Garcia in a thrilling ending 👀<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/DKasatkina?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DKasatkina</a> <a href="https://t.co/m5mpGfmglW">pic.twitter.com/m5mpGfmglW</a>
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/status/1663908782945042434?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Garcia Exits Roland Garros</h2>

With Garcia gone, the French women are without a seed in the singles' draw while none of the French men were among the top-ranked. On a sun-kissed Court Philippe Chatrier, where most of the ticket holders had opted for lunch over tennis, Garcia broke for a 2-1 lead in a strong start to her bid to claim consecutive wins on clay for the first time this season. She did not face a single break point in the first set and stole Blinkova's serve in the first game of the next set, only for her Russian opponent to break straight back.

Garcia conceded another break in the fourth game with a double fault and a third one in the fifth as Blinkova blitzed through the set despite facing some late resistance.

Blinkova pounced early in the decider and served for the match at 5-4, only for Garcia to save match points to level for 5-5.

She saved other match points at 6-5 after dropping her serve but Blinkova finally got a first serve in to end Garcia's campaign.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-shouldve-played-odi-wc-2019-anil-kumble-recalls-csk-star-ambati-rayudus-shocking-omission-598771">'He should've played ODI WC 2019': Anil Kumble recalls CSK star Ambati Rayudu's shocking omission</a>

Elsewhere, Daria Kasatkina, a semi-finalist at last year's French Open, moved into the third round with a 6-3 6-4 win against Czech Marketa Vondrousova, which included a spectacular tweener that will likely go down as one of the shots of the tournament.

Men's fifth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas progressed to the third round for the fifth straight time with a clinical 6-3 7-6(4) 6-2 win over Spaniard Roberto Carballes Baena in two hours and 16 minutes.

Italian Fabio Fognini also kept his good run going, beating Australian Jason Kubler 6-4 7-6(5) 6-2.

French hopes of a Roland Garros singles' champion were all but extinguished as Russian Anna Blinkova sent fifth seed Caroline Garcia tumbling out with a 4-6 6-3 7-5 second-round victory on Wednesday (May 31).

French hopes of a Roland Garros singles' champion were all but extinguished as Russian Anna Blinkova sent fifth seed Caroline Garcia tumbling out with a 4-6 6-3 7-5 second-round victory on Wednesday (May 31). Blinkova, who had already knocked Garcia out in Paris in 2019, prevailed on her ninth match point to end a tussle that lasted nearly three hours. The world number 56 double faulted twice on match point as nerves got to her, but she eventually ended it with a powerful serve to set up a meeting with Ukraine's Elina Svitolina. 🚨 Upset alert 🚨 Blinkova takes down seed No.5 Garcia in a thrilling ending 👀#RolandGarros | @DKasatkina pic.twitter.com/m5mpGfmglW — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) May 31, 2023 × Garcia Exits Roland Garros With Garcia gone, the French women are without a seed in the singles' draw while none of the French men were among the top-ranked. On a sun-kissed Court Philippe Chatrier, where most of the ticket holders had opted for lunch over tennis, Garcia broke for a 2-1 lead in a strong start to her bid to claim consecutive wins on clay for the first time this season. She did not face a single break point in the first set and stole Blinkova's serve in the first game of the next set, only for her Russian opponent to break straight back. Garcia conceded another break in the fourth game with a double fault and a third one in the fifth as Blinkova blitzed through the set despite facing some late resistance. Blinkova pounced early in the decider and served for the match at 5-4, only for Garcia to save match points to level for 5-5. She saved other match points at 6-5 after dropping her serve but Blinkova finally got a first serve in to end Garcia's campaign. ALSO READ | 'He should've played ODI WC 2019': Anil Kumble recalls CSK star Ambati Rayudu's shocking omission Elsewhere, Daria Kasatkina, a semi-finalist at last year's French Open, moved into the third round with a 6-3 6-4 win against Czech Marketa Vondrousova, which included a spectacular tweener that will likely go down as one of the shots of the tournament. Men's fifth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas progressed to the third round for the fifth straight time with a clinical 6-3 7-6(4) 6-2 win over Spaniard Roberto Carballes Baena in two hours and 16 minutes. Italian Fabio Fognini also kept his good run going, beating Australian Jason Kubler 6-4 7-6(5) 6-2.

French Open: Anna Blinkova beats fifth seed Caroline Garcia on ninth match point to reach third round

World number five Stefanos Tsitsipas eased past Spaniard Roberto Carballes Baena in straight sets 6-3 7-6(4) 6-2, on Wednesday (May 31),&nbsp;to advance to the French Open third round. After being stretched in his tournament opener versus Jiri Vesely, the Greek player was very much in control against Baena and closed the game in straight sets.&nbsp;

Tsitsipas was quick to take the early honours in the opening set. He took the first set 6-3 before Baena made a comeback of sorts in the second set. Baena fought hard in the second set and stretched it to the tiebreaker. The 24-year-old held his composure to emerge on top. In the third set, it was all about Tsitsipas as he stormed past his opponent 6-2 without breaking much sweat.&nbsp;

Tsitsipas will not like to let loose as he will now gear up for the third round. His opponent for the upcoming round is yet to be decided. The 2021 French Open runners-up will be desperate to go the distance in the mega event, the second Grand Slam of the year, and claim his major title. In the Australian Open 2023, he ended second after losing to Novak Djokovic and, thus, will be determined to go a step ahead at the Roland Garros.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kosovo-olympic-committee-seeks-ioc-disciplinary-action-against-serbian-star-novak-djokovic-598779">Kosovo Olympic Committee seeks IOC disciplinary action against Serbian star Novak Djokovic</a>

<h2>Pegula moves ahead</h2>

Meanwhile, Jessica Pegula advanced to the third round of the women's singles after her opponent Camila Giorgi retired following the opening set. Giogi suffered a leg injury, prompting her to withdraw from the showpiece event. On Wednesday, the likes of Stan Wawrinka, Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic will also be seen in action on the clay-court tournament.&nbsp;

On Tuesday (May 30), Russian player Daniil Medvedev became one of the first among the top-ranked players to exit from the Roland Garros. He lost to Brazilian qualifier Thiago Seyboth Wild&nbsp;7-6(5), 6-7(6), 2-6, 6-3. 6-. After the defeat, Medvedev said he was 'happy' with the end of the claycourt season.

“Every time it (the claycourt season) finishes I’m happy. So I’m happy. I’m happy again. Doesn’t matter, one time quarters, one time fourth round, a lot of times first round,” Medvedev told reporters.&nbsp;“Today because of the wind and the dry court, I had my mouth full of clay since probably the third game of the match, and I don’t like it. I don’t know if people like to eat clay, to have clay in their bags, in their shoes, the socks, white socks, you can throw them to the garbage after the clay season. Maybe some people like it. I don’t.”

World number five Stefanos Tsitsipas eased past Spaniard Roberto Carballes Baena in straight sets 6-3 7-6(4) 6-2, on Wednesday (May 31), to advance to the French Open third round.

World number five Stefanos Tsitsipas eased past Spaniard Roberto Carballes Baena in straight sets 6-3 7-6(4) 6-2, on Wednesday (May 31), to advance to the French Open third round. After being stretched in his tournament opener versus Jiri Vesely, the Greek player was very much in control against Baena and closed the game in straight sets. Tsitsipas was quick to take the early honours in the opening set. He took the first set 6-3 before Baena made a comeback of sorts in the second set. Baena fought hard in the second set and stretched it to the tiebreaker. The 24-year-old held his composure to emerge on top. In the third set, it was all about Tsitsipas as he stormed past his opponent 6-2 without breaking much sweat. Tsitsipas will not like to let loose as he will now gear up for the third round. His opponent for the upcoming round is yet to be decided. The 2021 French Open runners-up will be desperate to go the distance in the mega event, the second Grand Slam of the year, and claim his major title. In the Australian Open 2023, he ended second after losing to Novak Djokovic and, thus, will be determined to go a step ahead at the Roland Garros. Also Read: Kosovo Olympic Committee seeks IOC disciplinary action against Serbian star Novak Djokovic Pegula moves ahead Meanwhile, Jessica Pegula advanced to the third round of the women's singles after her opponent Camila Giorgi retired following the opening set. Giogi suffered a leg injury, prompting her to withdraw from the showpiece event. On Wednesday, the likes of Stan Wawrinka, Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic will also be seen in action on the clay-court tournament. On Tuesday (May 30), Russian player Daniil Medvedev became one of the first among the top-ranked players to exit from the Roland Garros. He lost to Brazilian qualifier Thiago Seyboth Wild 7-6(5), 6-7(6), 2-6, 6-3. 6-. After the defeat, Medvedev said he was 'happy' with the end of the claycourt season. “Every time it (the claycourt season) finishes I’m happy. So I’m happy. I’m happy again. Doesn’t matter, one time quarters, one time fourth round, a lot of times first round,” Medvedev told reporters. “Today because of the wind and the dry court, I had my mouth full of clay since probably the third game of the match, and I don’t like it. I don’t know if people like to eat clay, to have clay in their bags, in their shoes, the socks, white socks, you can throw them to the garbage after the clay season. Maybe some people like it. I don’t.”

French Open: Stefanos Tsitsipas goes past Roberto Carballés Baena in straight sets, enters third round

On Monday (May 29), former world number one Novak Djokovic eased past debutant Aleksandar Kovacevic in the first round of the French Open 2023 edition. Squaring off with the newcomer, Djokovic risked controversy by sharing a message about Kosovo and urging to stop the violence.&nbsp;The 22-time Grand Slam champion shared a message for one and all as he wrote on a camera lens in Serbian, stating, "Kosovo is the heart of Serbia. Stop the violence."

It is to be noted that the incident happened amid rising tensions in Kosovo. On Monday, clashes broke out between Serb protesters and NATO peacekeeping soldiers -- defending three town halls in northern Kosovo -- which led to as many as 25 soldiers being injured. Thus, Djokovic joined in and gave a special message for his countrymen after a winning start at the Roland Garros.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-2023-novak-djokovic-opens-campaign-with-straight-set-win-over-philippe-chatrier-597995">French Open 2023: Novak Djokovic opens campaign with straight set win over Aleksandar Kovacevic</a>

<h2 data-testid="paragraph-1">'My stance is clear: I am against wars, violence and any kind of conflict, as I’ve always stated publicly'</h2>

After his match, Djokovic told a news briefing, "As a son of a man born in Kosovo, I feel the need to give my support to our people and to the entire Serbia. My stance is clear: I am against wars, violence and any kind of conflict, as I’ve always stated publicly. I empathise with all people, but the situation with Kosovo is a precedent in international law."

The French tennis federation (FFT), which organises the French Open, reacted to Djokovic's message and told Reuters, "No official Grand Slam rules on what players can or cannot say. The FFT will not be making any statement or taking any stance on this matter."

Djokovic will now lock horns with Hungary's Marton&nbsp;Fucsovics in the second round on Wednesday (May 31). He is expected to go the distance in 2023's second Grand Slam tournament and compete for the mega title along with No. 1 ranked Carlos Alcaraz.&nbsp;

On Monday (May 29), former world number one Novak Djokovic eased past debutant Aleksandar Kovacevic in the first round of the French Open 2023 edition. Squaring off with the newcomer, Djokovic risked controversy by sharing a message about Kosovo and urging to stop the violence.

On Monday (May 29), former world number one Novak Djokovic eased past debutant Aleksandar Kovacevic in the first round of the French Open 2023 edition. Squaring off with the newcomer, Djokovic risked controversy by sharing a message about Kosovo and urging to stop the violence. The 22-time Grand Slam champion shared a message for one and all as he wrote on a camera lens in Serbian, stating, "Kosovo is the heart of Serbia. Stop the violence." It is to be noted that the incident happened amid rising tensions in Kosovo. On Monday, clashes broke out between Serb protesters and NATO peacekeeping soldiers -- defending three town halls in northern Kosovo -- which led to as many as 25 soldiers being injured. Thus, Djokovic joined in and gave a special message for his countrymen after a winning start at the Roland Garros. Also Read: French Open 2023: Novak Djokovic opens campaign with straight set win over Aleksandar Kovacevic 'My stance is clear: I am against wars, violence and any kind of conflict, as I’ve always stated publicly' After his match, Djokovic told a news briefing, "As a son of a man born in Kosovo, I feel the need to give my support to our people and to the entire Serbia. My stance is clear: I am against wars, violence and any kind of conflict, as I’ve always stated publicly. I empathise with all people, but the situation with Kosovo is a precedent in international law." The French tennis federation (FFT), which organises the French Open, reacted to Djokovic's message and told Reuters, "No official Grand Slam rules on what players can or cannot say. The FFT will not be making any statement or taking any stance on this matter." Djokovic will now lock horns with Hungary's Marton Fucsovics in the second round on Wednesday (May 31). He is expected to go the distance in 2023's second Grand Slam tournament and compete for the mega title along with No. 1 ranked Carlos Alcaraz.

Novak Djokovic shares message for violence-hit Kosovo after first-round win in French Open

The famously fickle Paris crowd made themselves heard on the opening day of the French Open, booing when Ukraine's Marta Kostyuk refused to shake hands after her first-round defeat by Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus on Sunday.

Stefanos Tsitsipas, the runner-up in Paris in 2021, was later dragged into a dogfight by Czech Jiri Vesely before he advanced in four sets and seeds Karen Khachanov and Hubert Hurkacz also battled their way into the second round.

Kostyuk had warned she would not shake hands with Russian and Belarusian players due to Moscow's invasion of its neighbour Ukraine and she kept her word on a sun-kissed court Philippe Chatrier after losing 6-3 6-2 to world number two Sabalenka.

Sabalenka, who initially thought the boos were for her, theatrically bowed to supporters before thanking them for their backing and later said she understood Kostyuk's choice to skip the customary gesture.

She added that the Ukrainian did not deserve to leave the main showcourt in the manner she did but Kostyuk urged Sabalenka to take a stronger and more personal stand against the war.

"She (Sabalenka) never says that she personally doesn't support this war, and I feel like journalists should change the questions you ask these athletes because the war is already there," Kostyuk said. "It's been 15 months since the war has begun."

Greek fifth seed Tsitsipas was made to work hard by Vesely, who is on the comeback trail following a lengthy injury absence, before winning 7-5 6-3 4-6 7-6(7). "I said to myself there's no chance this is going to a fifth set," said Tsitsipas. "Jiri was a difficult obstacle. He gave me a hard time and I'm happy I overcame it in such a fashion."

Russian Khachanov defeated local favourite Constant Lestienne 3-6 1-6 6-2 6-1 6-3 and the 11th seed was joined in the second round by Polish 13th seed Hurkacz who battled past David Goffin 6-3 5-7 6-4 2-6 6-4.

Australian wildcard Thanasi Kokkinakis pulled off an upset by downing British 20th seed Dan Evans 6-4 6-4 6-4. Monte Carlo champion Andrey Rublev, the seventh seed, overcame a mid-match wobble to beat Laslo Djere 6-1 3-6 6-3 6-4.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/golf-emiliano-grillo-wins-pga-tours-charles-schwab-challenge-for-first-title-in-eight-years-597644">Golf: Emiliano Grillo wins PGA Tour's Charles Schwab Challenge for first title in eight years</a>

SAKKARI CRASHES

Eighth seed Maria Sakkari became an early casualty on Court Suzanne Lenglen as she fell 7-6(5) 7-5 to Karolina Muchova, who also beat the Greek player in straight sets at last year's tournament. Third seed Jessica Pegula was in no mood for any adventures and cruised into the next round with a 6-4 6-2 win over fellow American Danielle Collins.

Canadian Leylah Fernandez downed 21st seed Magda Linette 6-3 1-6 6-3 while Poland's Magdalena Frech sent 29th seed Zhang Shuai packing after a 6-1 6-1 victory. Earlier, spectators lined up in huge numbers under panama hats and umbrellas as the year's second Grand Slam tournament began in bright sunshine.

After a record 50,000 people - compared to 29,000 last year - attended the qualifying event, fashionably late fans queued to get their seats despite temperatures reaching 27 degrees Celsius in the afternoon, with water vending stands busy all day.

There will be an unfamiliar feel to this year's tournament, with holder and 14-times winner Rafa Nadal out injured. "Of course, it's a big miss. My son wanted to see Nadal but now we will be supporting (Carlos) Alcaraz," said Gerald Furst, who runs a&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;club in the south of France. "I like (Novak) Djokovic as well, he's an amazing player. I believe it'll be a semi-final between Alcaraz and Djokovic. We want to see this match."

Serbian Djokovic, who is bidding for his third French Open title and a men's record 23rd major crown, takes on Aleksandar Kovacevic on Monday. Spanish top seed Alcaraz will also be in action against Flavio Cobolli.

The famously fickle Paris crowd made themselves heard on the opening day of the French Open, booing when Ukraine's Marta Kostyuk refused to shake hands after her first-round defeat by Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus on Sunday.

The famously fickle Paris crowd made themselves heard on the opening day of the French Open, booing when Ukraine's Marta Kostyuk refused to shake hands after her first-round defeat by Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus on Sunday. Stefanos Tsitsipas, the runner-up in Paris in 2021, was later dragged into a dogfight by Czech Jiri Vesely before he advanced in four sets and seeds Karen Khachanov and Hubert Hurkacz also battled their way into the second round. Kostyuk had warned she would not shake hands with Russian and Belarusian players due to Moscow's invasion of its neighbour Ukraine and she kept her word on a sun-kissed court Philippe Chatrier after losing 6-3 6-2 to world number two Sabalenka. Sabalenka, who initially thought the boos were for her, theatrically bowed to supporters before thanking them for their backing and later said she understood Kostyuk's choice to skip the customary gesture. She added that the Ukrainian did not deserve to leave the main showcourt in the manner she did but Kostyuk urged Sabalenka to take a stronger and more personal stand against the war. "She (Sabalenka) never says that she personally doesn't support this war, and I feel like journalists should change the questions you ask these athletes because the war is already there," Kostyuk said. "It's been 15 months since the war has begun." Greek fifth seed Tsitsipas was made to work hard by Vesely, who is on the comeback trail following a lengthy injury absence, before winning 7-5 6-3 4-6 7-6(7). "I said to myself there's no chance this is going to a fifth set," said Tsitsipas. "Jiri was a difficult obstacle. He gave me a hard time and I'm happy I overcame it in such a fashion." Russian Khachanov defeated local favourite Constant Lestienne 3-6 1-6 6-2 6-1 6-3 and the 11th seed was joined in the second round by Polish 13th seed Hurkacz who battled past David Goffin 6-3 5-7 6-4 2-6 6-4. Australian wildcard Thanasi Kokkinakis pulled off an upset by downing British 20th seed Dan Evans 6-4 6-4 6-4. Monte Carlo champion Andrey Rublev, the seventh seed, overcame a mid-match wobble to beat Laslo Djere 6-1 3-6 6-3 6-4. Also Read: Golf: Emiliano Grillo wins PGA Tour's Charles Schwab Challenge for first title in eight years SAKKARI CRASHES Eighth seed Maria Sakkari became an early casualty on Court Suzanne Lenglen as she fell 7-6(5) 7-5 to Karolina Muchova, who also beat the Greek player in straight sets at last year's tournament. Third seed Jessica Pegula was in no mood for any adventures and cruised into the next round with a 6-4 6-2 win over fellow American Danielle Collins. Canadian Leylah Fernandez downed 21st seed Magda Linette 6-3 1-6 6-3 while Poland's Magdalena Frech sent 29th seed Zhang Shuai packing after a 6-1 6-1 victory. Earlier, spectators lined up in huge numbers under panama hats and umbrellas as the year's second Grand Slam tournament began in bright sunshine. After a record 50,000 people - compared to 29,000 last year - attended the qualifying event, fashionably late fans queued to get their seats despite temperatures reaching 27 degrees Celsius in the afternoon, with water vending stands busy all day. There will be an unfamiliar feel to this year's tournament, with holder and 14-times winner Rafa Nadal out injured. "Of course, it's a big miss. My son wanted to see Nadal but now we will be supporting (Carlos) Alcaraz," said Gerald Furst, who runs a tennis club in the south of France. "I like (Novak) Djokovic as well, he's an amazing player. I believe it'll be a semi-final between Alcaraz and Djokovic. We want to see this match." Serbian Djokovic, who is bidding for his third French Open title and a men's record 23rd major crown, takes on Aleksandar Kovacevic on Monday. Spanish top seed Alcaraz will also be in action against Flavio Cobolli.

Tennis: Aryna Sabalenka prevails, Marta Kostyuk urges stronger anti-war stance after French Open boos

All eyes are on the forthcoming French Open 2023 edition, which kicks off on May 28 in Paris, France. With no Rafael Nadal -- who announced his decision to withdraw from the tournament due to a hip injury -- legendary star John McEnroe feels Novak Djokovic has a great chance of lifting the title at the Roland Garros.&nbsp;

It is to be noted that Djokovic has so far&nbsp;won 22 Grand Slam singles titles. Only two of them have come at the French Open, in 2016 and 2021. With no Nadal, his longtime rival, the Serbian will hope to end&nbsp;as the eventual winner, but will be wary of the threat posed by world number one Carlos Alcaraz, Daniil Medvedev, Stefanos Tsitsipas, etc.&nbsp;

If Djokovic wins the French Open, he will become&nbsp;the most successful male player with as many as 23 titles (currently, Nadal is tied with the Serbian at 22). In addition, the 36-year-old will inch&nbsp;closer to&nbsp;Margaret Court’s record for most Grand Slams (24), combining men’s and women’s tennis.&nbsp;

Ahead of French Open's commencement, McEnroe was quoted as saying, "He's tied with Rafa, so this is an opening. He's had a tough year and a half in a lot of ways, and he's also done some incredible things. Novak, he's always looking for some inspiration, some fuel, and he's got some now, and he's got a great chance."

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-withdraws-from-french-open-2023-with-injury-concerns-out-for-several-months-593766">Rafael Nadal withdraws from French Open, expects '2024 to be his last year in tennis'</a>

<h2>Will 2024 be Rafa's last?</h2>

Last week, Nadal addressed a&nbsp;presser where he said, "The evolution of the injury I sustained in Australia has not gone as I would have liked. I have lost goals along the way, and Roland Garros becomes impossible. At this moment, I won't be able to be at Roland Garros. With what that tournament is for me, you can imagine how difficult it is. I have no intention of continuing to play for the next few months."

Further, he made a big claim by saying, "2024 is&nbsp;probably going to be my last year on the professional tour, I can't say this 100 per cent because you never know what's going to happen."

With Nadal (14-time French Open champion) missing the clay-court tournament for the first time since 2005, Djokovic has a great chance to move past him in the Grand Slam tally. Will he be able to triumph over the young troops? Only time will tell...

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All eyes are on the forthcoming French Open 2023 edition, which kicks off on May 28 in Paris, France. With no Rafael Nadal -- who announced his decision to withdraw from the tournament due to a hip injury -- legendary star John McEnroe feels Novak Djokovic has a great chance of lifting the title at the Roland Garros.

All eyes are on the forthcoming French Open 2023 edition, which kicks off on May 28 in Paris, France. With no Rafael Nadal -- who announced his decision to withdraw from the tournament due to a hip injury -- legendary star John McEnroe feels Novak Djokovic has a great chance of lifting the title at the Roland Garros. It is to be noted that Djokovic has so far won 22 Grand Slam singles titles. Only two of them have come at the French Open, in 2016 and 2021. With no Nadal, his longtime rival, the Serbian will hope to end as the eventual winner, but will be wary of the threat posed by world number one Carlos Alcaraz, Daniil Medvedev, Stefanos Tsitsipas, etc. If Djokovic wins the French Open, he will become the most successful male player with as many as 23 titles (currently, Nadal is tied with the Serbian at 22). In addition, the 36-year-old will inch closer to Margaret Court’s record for most Grand Slams (24), combining men’s and women’s tennis. Ahead of French Open's commencement, McEnroe was quoted as saying, "He's tied with Rafa, so this is an opening. He's had a tough year and a half in a lot of ways, and he's also done some incredible things. Novak, he's always looking for some inspiration, some fuel, and he's got some now, and he's got a great chance." Also Read: Rafael Nadal withdraws from French Open, expects '2024 to be his last year in tennis' Will 2024 be Rafa's last? Last week, Nadal addressed a presser where he said, "The evolution of the injury I sustained in Australia has not gone as I would have liked. I have lost goals along the way, and Roland Garros becomes impossible. At this moment, I won't be able to be at Roland Garros. With what that tournament is for me, you can imagine how difficult it is. I have no intention of continuing to play for the next few months." Further, he made a big claim by saying, "2024 is probably going to be my last year on the professional tour, I can't say this 100 per cent because you never know what's going to happen." With Nadal (14-time French Open champion) missing the clay-court tournament for the first time since 2005, Djokovic has a great chance to move past him in the Grand Slam tally. Will he be able to triumph over the young troops? Only time will tell... 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: Djokovic has great chance of winning French Open 2023 in Nadal’s absence, feels John McEnroe

On Thursday (May 18), Rafael Nadal withdrew&nbsp;from the French Open 2023 -- the second Grand Slam of the year -- owing to an abdominal strain he picked up during this year's Australian Open. The 14-time French Open winner announced the decision during a presser on Thursday evening after&nbsp;doubts were cast over&nbsp;his participation for the past few months. Moreover, he indicated that 2024 would probably be his last year in professional tennis.

Nadal was expected to sit out of his favourite of the four Grand Slams after he missed the Dubai Tennis Championships and Qatar Open early this year. Alongside this, the&nbsp;Spaniard also didn't participate in any of the Indian Wells and Miami Masters events. The 22-time Grand Slam winner, in the lead-up to the French Open, also skipped the Monte-Carlo Masters, the Barcelona Open,&nbsp;Madrid and Italian Open.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-iga-swiatek-doubtful-for-title-defense-after-pulling-out-of-italian-open-quarterfinal-593679">French Open: Iga Swiatek doubtful for defending her title after pulling out of Italian Open quarterfinal</a>

<h2>'Next year probably going to be my last'</h2>

At the presser, Nadal said, "The evolution of the injury I sustained in Australia has not gone as I would have liked. I have lost goals along the way, and Roland Garros becomes impossible. At this moment, I won't be able to be at Roland Garros. With what that tournament is for me, you can imagine how difficult it is. I have no intention of continuing to play for the next few months."

Further, he added, "My intention is for next year to be my last year on the professional tour, I can't say this 100 per cent because you never know what's going to happen."

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Rafa, 
 
We can't imagine how hard this decision was. We'll definitely miss you at this year's Roland-Garros. Take care of yourself to come back stronger on courts. 
 
Hoping to see you next year in Paris 🧡 <a href="https://t.co/lTN3GExBFo">pic.twitter.com/lTN3GExBFo</a>
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At 36, Nadal is surely in the last phase of his glittering career. With a spate of injuries that have halted his progress, the superstar's absence will surely hurt his ardent fans. They, however, will breathe a sigh of relief with him not announcing his retirement, which might still be sooner than later if he continues to struggle with injury concerns.

Nadal is a winner of 22 Grand Slam titles -- joint-most along with arch-rival Novak Djokovic -- and has dominated the French Open with 14 titles on the clay court.

French Open 2023 qualifiers&nbsp;kicked&nbsp;off on May 22 and the main draw begins May 28. The likes of Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz will be favourites heading into the marquee event sans Nadal.

On Thursday (May 18), Rafael Nadal withdrew from the French Open 2023 -- the second Grand Slam of the year -- owing to an abdominal strain he picked up during this year's Australian Open.

On Thursday (May 18), Rafael Nadal withdrew from the French Open 2023 -- the second Grand Slam of the year -- owing to an abdominal strain he picked up during this year's Australian Open. The 14-time French Open winner announced the decision during a presser on Thursday evening after doubts were cast over his participation for the past few months. Moreover, he indicated that 2024 would probably be his last year in professional tennis. Nadal was expected to sit out of his favourite of the four Grand Slams after he missed the Dubai Tennis Championships and Qatar Open early this year. Alongside this, the Spaniard also didn't participate in any of the Indian Wells and Miami Masters events. The 22-time Grand Slam winner, in the lead-up to the French Open, also skipped the Monte-Carlo Masters, the Barcelona Open, Madrid and Italian Open. Also Read: French Open: Iga Swiatek doubtful for defending her title after pulling out of Italian Open quarterfinal 'Next year probably going to be my last' At the presser, Nadal said, "The evolution of the injury I sustained in Australia has not gone as I would have liked. I have lost goals along the way, and Roland Garros becomes impossible. At this moment, I won't be able to be at Roland Garros. With what that tournament is for me, you can imagine how difficult it is. I have no intention of continuing to play for the next few months." Further, he added, "My intention is for next year to be my last year on the professional tour, I can't say this 100 per cent because you never know what's going to happen." Rafa, We can't imagine how hard this decision was. We'll definitely miss you at this year's Roland-Garros. Take care of yourself to come back stronger on courts. Hoping to see you next year in Paris 🧡 pic.twitter.com/lTN3GExBFo — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) May 18, 2023 × At 36, Nadal is surely in the last phase of his glittering career. With a spate of injuries that have halted his progress, the superstar's absence will surely hurt his ardent fans. They, however, will breathe a sigh of relief with him not announcing his retirement, which might still be sooner than later if he continues to struggle with injury concerns. Nadal is a winner of 22 Grand Slam titles -- joint-most along with arch-rival Novak Djokovic -- and has dominated the French Open with 14 titles on the clay court. French Open 2023 qualifiers kicked off on May 22 and the main draw begins May 28. The likes of Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz will be favourites heading into the marquee event sans Nadal.

Rafael Nadal withdraws from French Open, expects '2024 to be his last year in tennis'

World number one Carlos Alcaraz faces a tough path to a maiden French Open title after being placed in the same half of the draw as 22-times Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic on Thursday. In the absence of 14-times winner and defending champion Rafael Nadal, who will miss the claycourt major through injury, all eyes are on Djokovic and Alcaraz.

The 20-year-old Alcaraz, who will play a qualifier in the opening round, could face some treacherous match-ups en route to a potential semi-final against world number three Djokovic with 2021 runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas, Lorenzo Musetti and Felix Auger-Aliassime in the top quarter of the draw. Djokovic, who starts against Aleksandar Kovacevic, has a seemingly smooth journey to the last four with Russian seventh seed Andrey Rublev his main threat.

World number two Daniil Medvedev, who plays a qualifier in the first round, is in the lower part of the draw and could face either last year's runner-up Casper Ruud or Norway's Holger Rune. Sixth seed Rune won the Munich title on clay this season and reached the final in Monte Carlo and Rome, losing to Medvedev in the Italian capital.

"It's going to be an emotional edition of the French Open after (tournament director) Amelie Mauresmo received a call from Rafael Nadal saying he could not take part in the tournament," French federation president Gilles Moretton said.

"It will also be emotional because it marks the 40th anniversary of Yannick Noah's triumph at Roland Garros."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-djokovic-has-great-chance-of-winning-french-open-2023-in-nadals-absence-john-mcenroe-596461">Tennis: Djokovic has great chance of winning French Open 2023 in Nadal’s absence, feels John McEnroe</a>

No French man has won the singles' title since 1983 and it would take a miracle to see one of them lift the Musketeers Cup on June 11. In the women's draw, defending champion and world number one Iga Swiatek will start against Cristina Bucsa, the world number 67.

She faces a potential quarter-final clash against Coco Gauff, the American she beat in last year's final. Swiatek, who retired in Rome with a thigh injury, has already started practising at Roland Garros this week. Anhelina Kalinina, who reached the final in Rome earlier this month, could stand in Gauff's way in the third round.

French hopes will rest on the shoulders of fifth seed Caroline Garcia, who is on a quarter-final collision course with second seed Aryna Sabalenka. Belarusian Sabalenka, the Australian Open champion, beat Swiatek in the final of the Madrid Open last month.

Rome champion Elena Rybakina of Kazakhstan is expected to have a smooth run to the last eight, where she could face Tunisian seventh seed Ons Jabeur.

World number one Carlos Alcaraz faces a tough path to a maiden French Open title after being placed in the same half of the draw as 22-times Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic on Thursday.

World number one Carlos Alcaraz faces a tough path to a maiden French Open title after being placed in the same half of the draw as 22-times Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic on Thursday. In the absence of 14-times winner and defending champion Rafael Nadal, who will miss the claycourt major through injury, all eyes are on Djokovic and Alcaraz. The 20-year-old Alcaraz, who will play a qualifier in the opening round, could face some treacherous match-ups en route to a potential semi-final against world number three Djokovic with 2021 runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas, Lorenzo Musetti and Felix Auger-Aliassime in the top quarter of the draw. Djokovic, who starts against Aleksandar Kovacevic, has a seemingly smooth journey to the last four with Russian seventh seed Andrey Rublev his main threat. World number two Daniil Medvedev, who plays a qualifier in the first round, is in the lower part of the draw and could face either last year's runner-up Casper Ruud or Norway's Holger Rune. Sixth seed Rune won the Munich title on clay this season and reached the final in Monte Carlo and Rome, losing to Medvedev in the Italian capital. "It's going to be an emotional edition of the French Open after (tournament director) Amelie Mauresmo received a call from Rafael Nadal saying he could not take part in the tournament," French federation president Gilles Moretton said. "It will also be emotional because it marks the 40th anniversary of Yannick Noah's triumph at Roland Garros." Also Read: Tennis: Djokovic has great chance of winning French Open 2023 in Nadal’s absence, feels John McEnroe No French man has won the singles' title since 1983 and it would take a miracle to see one of them lift the Musketeers Cup on June 11. In the women's draw, defending champion and world number one Iga Swiatek will start against Cristina Bucsa, the world number 67. She faces a potential quarter-final clash against Coco Gauff, the American she beat in last year's final. Swiatek, who retired in Rome with a thigh injury, has already started practising at Roland Garros this week. Anhelina Kalinina, who reached the final in Rome earlier this month, could stand in Gauff's way in the third round. French hopes will rest on the shoulders of fifth seed Caroline Garcia, who is on a quarter-final collision course with second seed Aryna Sabalenka. Belarusian Sabalenka, the Australian Open champion, beat Swiatek in the final of the Madrid Open last month. Rome champion Elena Rybakina of Kazakhstan is expected to have a smooth run to the last eight, where she could face Tunisian seventh seed Ons Jabeur.

Tennis: Tough road ahead for Carlos Alcaraz, defending champion Iga Swiatek for French Open title

The French Open is offering players at this year's tournament free access to a tool that will filter hateful messages on their social media platforms in a bid to prevent cyberbullying and harassment, organisers said on Monday. The French&nbsp;Tennis&nbsp;Federation (FFT) said that artificial intelligence will be used to moderate comments players receive on posts in real-time - with responses analysed in less than 200 milliseconds - and care will be taken about what is censored.

"As part of its strategy to take care of the players' mental health, the FFT decided to collaborate with 'Bodyguard' to fight against cyberbullying," the FFT said in a statement. "A team of linguists creates word patterns that enable the system to be updated in real time according to what is posted on social media, in order to generate a more contextual analysis."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-britains-andy-murray-pulls-out-of-french-open-to-concentrate-on-wimbledon-2023-594815">Tennis - Britain's Andy Murray pulls out of French Open to concentrate on Wimbledon 2023</a>

<h2>'We want to protect players from this damaging behaviour'</h2>

The FFT added that the technology will be used to protect all official FFT and Roland Garros social media accounts&nbsp;as well as those of players who opt for it for the duration of the Grand Slam and at least a week after the tournament has ended.

Social media platforms that will be monitored are Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, TikTok and Discord. "We will not accept any form of violence at our tournament," FFT director Caroline Flaissier said. "We're very proud to be the first Grand Slam tournament to offer players a solution that efficiently protects them against cyberbullying.

"We want to protect players from this damaging behaviour, to enable them to be in peak mental condition when they compete in the tournament."

The French Open is offering players at this year's tournament free access to a tool that will filter hateful messages on their social media platforms in a bid to prevent cyberbullying and harassment, organisers said on Monday.

The French Open is offering players at this year's tournament free access to a tool that will filter hateful messages on their social media platforms in a bid to prevent cyberbullying and harassment, organisers said on Monday. The French Tennis Federation (FFT) said that artificial intelligence will be used to moderate comments players receive on posts in real-time - with responses analysed in less than 200 milliseconds - and care will be taken about what is censored. "As part of its strategy to take care of the players' mental health, the FFT decided to collaborate with 'Bodyguard' to fight against cyberbullying," the FFT said in a statement. "A team of linguists creates word patterns that enable the system to be updated in real time according to what is posted on social media, in order to generate a more contextual analysis." Also Read: Tennis - Britain's Andy Murray pulls out of French Open to concentrate on Wimbledon 2023 'We want to protect players from this damaging behaviour' The FFT added that the technology will be used to protect all official FFT and Roland Garros social media accounts as well as those of players who opt for it for the duration of the Grand Slam and at least a week after the tournament has ended. Social media platforms that will be monitored are Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, TikTok and Discord. "We will not accept any form of violence at our tournament," FFT director Caroline Flaissier said. "We're very proud to be the first Grand Slam tournament to offer players a solution that efficiently protects them against cyberbullying. "We want to protect players from this damaging behaviour, to enable them to be in peak mental condition when they compete in the tournament."

Tennis: French Open comes up with unique ploy, offers players tool to filter out online abuse

Elena Rybakina won the Italian Open on Saturday and promptly turned her attention to Roland Garros and the pursuit of a second career Grand Slam title. Kazakhstan's Rybakina captured her second WTA 1000 title of the season at Foro Italico when Ukrainian opponent Anhelina Kalinina retired with a thigh injury which she had been carrying all week.

Rybakina hugged her friend and rival at the net as the tearful loser explained how the physical problem had finally caught up with her.

World number six Rybakina - the reigning Wimbledon champion, was leading 6-4, 1-0 when Kalinina called it quits shortly after midnight in a final long-delayed by rain.&nbsp; 
Rybakina, 23, became the first woman to capture two WTA 1000 titles this season, having already won the prestigious Indian Wells hard court tournament in March. She was also runner-up at the Australian Open and in Miami and now she is eyeing up the French Open.

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/italian-open-holger-rune-rallies-past-casper-ruud-in-three-sets-to-reach-rome-final-594539">Italian Open: Holger Rune rallies past Casper Ruud in three sets to reach Rome final</a>

"Hopefully I can go far at the French Open," she said. "I have good memories playing there. "Now that I've got more matches on clay,it's a bit easier and (gives) a bit more confidence definitely.

"It's always important to be healthy, be ready physically, then hopefully I can go far there."

She offered wishes for a speedy recovery to Kalinina.

"She has done an amazing job, I hope she is fit for Roland Garros," Rybakina said.

The 68-minute match didn't get underway until 11 pm, Rybakina telling the hardy fans in the stadium who sat through more than four hours of delays that she knew it wasn't easy for them.

Rybakina, who will rise to four in the world ahead of Roland Garros, is only the third woman to have reached the finals at the Australian Open, Indian Wells, Miami and Rome in the same season.

The others were Monica Seles in 1991 and Maria Sharapova in 2012.

The Russian-born Rybakina has now won 28 matches this season -- only world number two and Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka has won more, with 29.

"I'm proud that I can maintain this level, it's not easy with all the scheduling, traveling. I think we're doing a good job with the team," Rybakina said. "I can see improvements on the court, physically also. I think we're on a right way."

But she added: "There is still a lot of room to improve. But for now it's going well, and hopefully I can continue like this till the end of the season."

Kalinina, 26, said that her physio had kept her fit enough to compete until the end in Rome.

"I tried my best but I just could not play," Kalinina said, apologising to spectators.

Elena Rybakina won the Italian Open on Saturday and promptly turned her attention to Roland Garros and the pursuit of a second career Grand Slam title. Kazakhstan's Rybakina captured her second WTA 1000 title of the season at Foro Italico when Ukrainian opponent Anhelina Kalinina retired with a thigh injury which she had been carrying all week.

Elena Rybakina won the Italian Open on Saturday and promptly turned her attention to Roland Garros and the pursuit of a second career Grand Slam title. Kazakhstan's Rybakina captured her second WTA 1000 title of the season at Foro Italico when Ukrainian opponent Anhelina Kalinina retired with a thigh injury which she had been carrying all week. Rybakina hugged her friend and rival at the net as the tearful loser explained how the physical problem had finally caught up with her. World number six Rybakina - the reigning Wimbledon champion, was leading 6-4, 1-0 when Kalinina called it quits shortly after midnight in a final long-delayed by rain. Rybakina, 23, became the first woman to capture two WTA 1000 titles this season, having already won the prestigious Indian Wells hard court tournament in March. She was also runner-up at the Australian Open and in Miami and now she is eyeing up the French Open. ALSO READ: Italian Open: Holger Rune rallies past Casper Ruud in three sets to reach Rome final "Hopefully I can go far at the French Open," she said. "I have good memories playing there. "Now that I've got more matches on clay,it's a bit easier and (gives) a bit more confidence definitely. "It's always important to be healthy, be ready physically, then hopefully I can go far there." She offered wishes for a speedy recovery to Kalinina. "She has done an amazing job, I hope she is fit for Roland Garros," Rybakina said. The 68-minute match didn't get underway until 11 pm, Rybakina telling the hardy fans in the stadium who sat through more than four hours of delays that she knew it wasn't easy for them. Rybakina, who will rise to four in the world ahead of Roland Garros, is only the third woman to have reached the finals at the Australian Open, Indian Wells, Miami and Rome in the same season. The others were Monica Seles in 1991 and Maria Sharapova in 2012. The Russian-born Rybakina has now won 28 matches this season -- only world number two and Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka has won more, with 29. "I'm proud that I can maintain this level, it's not easy with all the scheduling, traveling. I think we're doing a good job with the team," Rybakina said. "I can see improvements on the court, physically also. I think we're on a right way." But she added: "There is still a lot of room to improve. But for now it's going well, and hopefully I can continue like this till the end of the season." Kalinina, 26, said that her physio had kept her fit enough to compete until the end in Rome. "I tried my best but I just could not play," Kalinina said, apologising to spectators.

Italian Open 2023 winner Elena Rybakina sets sights on clinching title at Roland Garros

Rafael Nadal on Thursday, May 18, announced his withdrawal from the French Open 2023 bringing an end to his 18-year streak of appearing at the Roland-Garros. In his illustrious career, Nadal has never missed the French Open and won the title a record 14 times. With Nadal confirming his withdrawal from the tournament this year, the French Open will have a major miss with good friend Roger Federer also not part of the roster, having announced his retirement from the sport in September 2022.

<h2>Why Nadal will be a big absence?</h2>

In the last 18 editions of the French Open, the so-called ‘King of Clay’ dominated in Paris on 14 occasions and never lost a final. Interestingly, he won five consecutive Roland-Garros titles from 2010 to 2014 when he was at the peak of his game. He lost only three matches in Paris and remains one of the most coveted players to have graced the game.

"I'll look to be 100% ready for next year, which I believe will be the last year of my professional career," Nadal told reporters.

"I can't say this 100 per cent because you never know what's going to happen," he said.

With a record of 118-3, he stands alone in both men and women to have won the most matches at a Grand Slam tournament. His record of winning the French Open title on 14 occasions is the most by any player at a single slam in the singles division.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-faf-du-plessis-praises-passionate-kohli-says-playing-with-him-is-better-than-playing-against-him-593606">IPL 2023: Faf du Plessis praises passionate Kohli, says playing with him is better than being in opposite team</a>

In 2022, Nadal won his 22nd Grand Slam title, the most by any men’s tennis star at that moment (now joined by Novak Djokovic).

Interestingly, not since 1999 will the Roland-Garros kick start without Federer and Nadal, another new for the tennis fraternity.

<h2>Nadal to retire in 2024?</h2>

During the press conference on Thursday, Nadal also spoke on his retirement plans in 2024 which will bring curtains on his illustrious career. If the retirement plans go accordingly, it will also bring down the curtains to a unique rivalry with Novak Djokovic. They both share a great and could have already seen its last as Djokovic too is in the twilight of his career. 
 
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Rafael Nadal on Thursday, May 18, announced his withdrawal from the French Open 2023 bringing an end to his 18-year streak of appearing at the Roland-Garros. In his illustrious career, Nadal has never missed the French Open and won the title a record 14 times.

Rafael Nadal on Thursday, May 18, announced his withdrawal from the French Open 2023 bringing an end to his 18-year streak of appearing at the Roland-Garros. In his illustrious career, Nadal has never missed the French Open and won the title a record 14 times. With Nadal confirming his withdrawal from the tournament this year, the French Open will have a major miss with good friend Roger Federer also not part of the roster, having announced his retirement from the sport in September 2022. Why Nadal will be a big absence? In the last 18 editions of the French Open, the so-called ‘King of Clay’ dominated in Paris on 14 occasions and never lost a final. Interestingly, he won five consecutive Roland-Garros titles from 2010 to 2014 when he was at the peak of his game. He lost only three matches in Paris and remains one of the most coveted players to have graced the game. "I'll look to be 100% ready for next year, which I believe will be the last year of my professional career," Nadal told reporters. "I can't say this 100 per cent because you never know what's going to happen," he said. With a record of 118-3, he stands alone in both men and women to have won the most matches at a Grand Slam tournament. His record of winning the French Open title on 14 occasions is the most by any player at a single slam in the singles division. ALSO READ | IPL 2023: Faf du Plessis praises passionate Kohli, says playing with him is better than being in opposite team In 2022, Nadal won his 22nd Grand Slam title, the most by any men’s tennis star at that moment (now joined by Novak Djokovic). Interestingly, not since 1999 will the Roland-Garros kick start without Federer and Nadal, another new for the tennis fraternity. Nadal to retire in 2024? During the press conference on Thursday, Nadal also spoke on his retirement plans in 2024 which will bring curtains on his illustrious career. If the retirement plans go accordingly, it will also bring down the curtains to a unique rivalry with Novak Djokovic. They both share a great and could have already seen its last as Djokovic too is in the twilight of his career. 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.

Rafael Nadal's clay court dominance and why he will be missed at French Open for the first time

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