Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas said the Olympics holds a special significance to him due to its Greek origins, adding that he is hoping to realise his dream of winning an Olympic medal at this month's Paris Games. Greece, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, have won three medals in&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;at the Olympics, all of which came in 1896 at the first modern Olympic Games held in Athens.

"Greece and the (Olympic) Games for sure fit like bread and butter together. It is something that has been a dream of mine since I started playing&nbsp;tennis," world number 12 Tsitsipas told Stats Perform in an interview published on Wednesday.

"Since I first picked up a&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;racket, I always wanted to be an athlete that gets to participate in something like that. And of course, to be aiming for a medal is something extraordinary. "So my dream keeps on evolving, keeps on existing, and my path towards that is slowly building up. For me the best redemption is walking away from the Games with a medal."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/news-indian-contingents-full-schedule-at-paris-olympics-2024-all-you-need-to-know-741861">India's full schedule at Paris Olympics 2024: All you need to know</a>

The&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;tournament at the Olympics will take place from July 27-Aug. 4 at Roland Garros, which also serves as the venue for the French Open.

Tsitsipas has enjoyed some success on the clay courts of Roland Garros in the past, making it to the French Open final in 2021 and reaching the quarter-finals of the Grand Slam in the past two editions.

"Getting a good preparation before the games start in August is something that I'm really looking forward to," Tsitsipas said. "I've had great success there a few years ago at the same stadium playing the finals of the Roland Garros.

"So coming back there with that confidence and that living in the backside of my mind allows me to strive and work towards the same end goal that I ended up pulling off this amazing run that I had a few years ago."

Tsitsipas will compete in the singles at the Olympics as well as the men's doubles alongside brother Petros.

Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas said the Olympics holds a special significance to him due to its Greek origins, adding that he is hoping to realise his dream of winning an Olympic medal at this month's Paris Games.

Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas said the Olympics holds a special significance to him due to its Greek origins, adding that he is hoping to realise his dream of winning an Olympic medal at this month's Paris Games. Greece, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, have won three medals in tennis at the Olympics, all of which came in 1896 at the first modern Olympic Games held in Athens. "Greece and the (Olympic) Games for sure fit like bread and butter together. It is something that has been a dream of mine since I started playing tennis," world number 12 Tsitsipas told Stats Perform in an interview published on Wednesday. "Since I first picked up a tennis racket, I always wanted to be an athlete that gets to participate in something like that. And of course, to be aiming for a medal is something extraordinary. "So my dream keeps on evolving, keeps on existing, and my path towards that is slowly building up. For me the best redemption is walking away from the Games with a medal." Also read: India's full schedule at Paris Olympics 2024: All you need to know The tennis tournament at the Olympics will take place from July 27-Aug. 4 at Roland Garros, which also serves as the venue for the French Open. Tsitsipas has enjoyed some success on the clay courts of Roland Garros in the past, making it to the French Open final in 2021 and reaching the quarter-finals of the Grand Slam in the past two editions. "Getting a good preparation before the games start in August is something that I'm really looking forward to," Tsitsipas said. "I've had great success there a few years ago at the same stadium playing the finals of the Roland Garros. "So coming back there with that confidence and that living in the backside of my mind allows me to strive and work towards the same end goal that I ended up pulling off this amazing run that I had a few years ago." Tsitsipas will compete in the singles at the Olympics as well as the men's doubles alongside brother Petros.

Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas keen on completing childhood dream at Paris Games

Novak Djokovic claimed a spot in the last four of the ATP Finals with a 6-3 6-2 victory over Russian Andrey Rublev on Wednesday, while Stefanos Tsitsipas withdrew from the tournament due to an elbow injury.

The ATP said that the Greek world number four had suffered a right elbow injury, something he had been carrying since retiring from the Paris Masters earlier this month, and would be replaced in Turin by British world number 12 Cameron Norrie.

Djokovic, who won his opener against Casper Ruud on Monday, looked to be in trouble from the off in his first ever match against Rublev when he was broken in the first game.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/im-fighting-for-it-roger-federer-out-of-australian-open-participation-in-wimbledon-remains-doubtful-430030">'I'm fighting for it': Roger Federer out of Australian Open, participation in Wimbledon remains doubtful</a>

The Serb, looking for his sixth title at the season-ending event, was given an immediate reprieve when Rublev double faulted in his own service game to bring up two break points, the second of which went for Djokovic.

The pair were on an even keel until the eighth game when Djokovic pounced on a heavy volley from Rublev and sent a winning pass beyond the Russian to claim the vital break on his way to claiming the first set.

The second was more assured from the world number one, forcing his opponent into some costly errors that helped bring up Djokovic's 40th win at the ATP Finals in 68 minutes, sealed with an ace.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chinese-star-peng-shuais-safety-comes-ahead-of-business-assures-former-wta-ceo-stacey-allaster-429731">Chinese star Peng Shuai's safety comes ahead of business, assures former WTA CEO Stacey Allaster</a>

The 34-year-old and 20-times Grand Slam winner tops the Green Group standings with two wins from two and is assured of a place in the last-four.

Norrie will make his debut in the tournament later on Wednesday against Norway's Ruud.

Norrie is the second alternate drafted in following Italian Matteo Berrettini`s withdrawal on Tuesday with compatriot Jannick Sinner taking his place.

Novak Djokovic claimed a spot in the last four of the ATP Finals with a 6-3 6-2 victory over Russian Andrey Rublev on Wednesday, while Stefanos Tsitsipas withdrew from the tournament due to an elbow injury.

Novak Djokovic claimed a spot in the last four of the ATP Finals with a 6-3 6-2 victory over Russian Andrey Rublev on Wednesday, while Stefanos Tsitsipas withdrew from the tournament due to an elbow injury. The ATP said that the Greek world number four had suffered a right elbow injury, something he had been carrying since retiring from the Paris Masters earlier this month, and would be replaced in Turin by British world number 12 Cameron Norrie. Djokovic, who won his opener against Casper Ruud on Monday, looked to be in trouble from the off in his first ever match against Rublev when he was broken in the first game. ALSO READ: 'I'm fighting for it': Roger Federer out of Australian Open, participation in Wimbledon remains doubtful The Serb, looking for his sixth title at the season-ending event, was given an immediate reprieve when Rublev double faulted in his own service game to bring up two break points, the second of which went for Djokovic. The pair were on an even keel until the eighth game when Djokovic pounced on a heavy volley from Rublev and sent a winning pass beyond the Russian to claim the vital break on his way to claiming the first set. The second was more assured from the world number one, forcing his opponent into some costly errors that helped bring up Djokovic's 40th win at the ATP Finals in 68 minutes, sealed with an ace. ALSO READ | Chinese star Peng Shuai's safety comes ahead of business, assures former WTA CEO Stacey Allaster The 34-year-old and 20-times Grand Slam winner tops the Green Group standings with two wins from two and is assured of a place in the last-four. Norrie will make his debut in the tournament later on Wednesday against Norway's Ruud. Norrie is the second alternate drafted in following Italian Matteo Berrettini`s withdrawal on Tuesday with compatriot Jannick Sinner taking his place.

ATP Finals: Novak Djokovic clinches semi-final spot with Andrey Rublev win

Former U.S. Open champion Sloane Stephens said on Wednesday players who took extended bathroom breaks were guilty of "gamesmanship" after Stefanos Tsitsipas came under fire once again for leaving the court late on in a match. 
 
Andy Murray was furious with Tsitsipas on Monday after he took a break that ran close to eight minutes during their five-set first-round clash, with the Briton saying the disruption had an impact on the match. 
 
In his second round tie with Adrian Mannarino on Wednesday, the Greek left for the locker room for a bathroom break of more than seven minutes after losing the third set, and was jeered by the Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd on his return. 
 
Stephens, who sits on the WTA players council, said it was gamesmanship and had to stop. "They make a lot of rule changes for smaller things, like, they took one minute off the warmup," said Stephens, who won the U.S. Open title in 2017. "I think there definitely needs to be a rule or changes. 
 
"If someone goes to the bathroom for nine minutes, no one says anything. "I think now that there is a lot of talk about it, people come into press, people tweet about it, maybe it will get a little bit more attention, that gamesmanship will kind of maybe turn and change a little bit." 
 
Tsitsipas, 23, has repeatedly said he is not breaking any rules as there are no time limits on bathroom breaks. 
 
In a tweet a day after his defeat, Murray said Tsitsipas took longer on bathroom breaks than it took billionaire Jeff Bezos to reach outer space. 
 
The 28-year-old Stephens found Murray`s tweet "really funny" and said a lengthy break could change the momentum of a match. 
 
"If you`re changing your clothes, what are you changing? What are you doing in there?" she asked. "If you ever changed out of a wet sports bra ... But that is maybe like a five-minute. When you get into six, seven, eight, nine minutes, okay, what are you doing in there? Do you need help?" 
&nbsp;

Former U.S. Open champion Sloane Stephens said on Wednesday players who took extended bathroom breaks were guilty of "gamesmanship" after Stefanos Tsitsipas came under fire once again for leaving the court late on in a match.

Former U.S. Open champion Sloane Stephens said on Wednesday players who took extended bathroom breaks were guilty of "gamesmanship" after Stefanos Tsitsipas came under fire once again for leaving the court late on in a match. Andy Murray was furious with Tsitsipas on Monday after he took a break that ran close to eight minutes during their five-set first-round clash, with the Briton saying the disruption had an impact on the match. In his second round tie with Adrian Mannarino on Wednesday, the Greek left for the locker room for a bathroom break of more than seven minutes after losing the third set, and was jeered by the Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd on his return. Stephens, who sits on the WTA players council, said it was gamesmanship and had to stop. "They make a lot of rule changes for smaller things, like, they took one minute off the warmup," said Stephens, who won the U.S. Open title in 2017. "I think there definitely needs to be a rule or changes. "If someone goes to the bathroom for nine minutes, no one says anything. "I think now that there is a lot of talk about it, people come into press, people tweet about it, maybe it will get a little bit more attention, that gamesmanship will kind of maybe turn and change a little bit." Tsitsipas, 23, has repeatedly said he is not breaking any rules as there are no time limits on bathroom breaks. In a tweet a day after his defeat, Murray said Tsitsipas took longer on bathroom breaks than it took billionaire Jeff Bezos to reach outer space. The 28-year-old Stephens found Murray`s tweet "really funny" and said a lengthy break could change the momentum of a match. "If you`re changing your clothes, what are you changing? What are you doing in there?" she asked. "If you ever changed out of a wet sports bra ... But that is maybe like a five-minute. When you get into six, seven, eight, nine minutes, okay, what are you doing in there? Do you need help?"

US Open: Sloane Stephens calls for rule change over Stefanos Tsitsipas' lengthy bathroom break row

Naomi Osaka launches her bid for a third US Open title in four years on Monday, aiming to put turmoil behind her as she chases her second Grand Slam title of 2021.

Osaka, who rocketed to fame when she beat superstar Serena Williams in the 2018 US Open final, appeared set for a sparkling 2021 campaign after she beat American Jen Brady in the Australian Open final in February to capture her fourth major crown.

But she has played sparingly since, pulling out of the French Open after she was fined for failing to meet mandatory media requirements.

Osaka, who said she believed post-match news conferences were detrimental to her mental health, opted out of Wimbledon as well, and after the magical moment of lighting the cauldron at the Tokyo Olympics bowed out in the third round.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/johanna-konta-not-sure-if-she-should-have-taken-covid-19-vaccine-409308">Johanna Konta not sure if she should have taken COVID-19 vaccine</a>&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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"Did we just become best friends?!"<a href="https://twitter.com/steftsitsipas?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@steftsitsipas</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/dudewithsign?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@dudewithsign</a> met in person and the results were glorious. <a href="https://t.co/KECZdfN9y4">pic.twitter.com/KECZdfN9y4</a>
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) <a href="https://twitter.com/usopen/status/1431243846768332801?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Although she also lost in the third round at Cincinnati in August, Osaka said she was "pretty happy" with her game heading into the high-pressure atmosphere of the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows.

As she looked ahead to her Monday opener against Czech Marie Bouzkova Osaka said in a social media post that she wants to start to savor her accomplishments and let go of negative thoughts.

"Recently I've been asking myself why do I feel the way I do and I realize one of the reasons is because internally I think I'm never good enough," she wrote. "I never tell myself that I've done a good job, but I do know I constantly tell myself that I suck or I could do better.

"Seeing everything that's going on in the world I feel like if I wake up in the morning that's a win," Osaka wrote. "Your life is your own and you shouldn't value yourself on other people's standards. I know I give my heart to everything I can and if that's not good enough for some then my apologies but I can't burden myself with those expectations anymore."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/covid-19-andy-murray-urges-fellow-players-to-get-vaccinated-409156">COVID-19: Andy Murray urges fellow players to get vaccinated</a>

Osaka has already acknowledged that it will take some adjusting after last year's spectator ban to adjust to the return of fans to the 23,771-seat Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Crowds at the normally rowdy Open will be back at full capacity, although organizers announced last week that all attendees will be required to provide proof of having received at least one Covid-19 vaccination.

With world number one Novak Djokovic waiting in the wings, second-ranked Daniil Medvedev closes out the action on Ashe on Monday against French veteran Richard Gasquet.

Play opens with former women's champion Sloane Stephens taking on Madison Keys in an All-American clash.

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Get ready for your return. 
 
Updated <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USOpen</a> health and safety protocols ⬇️
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) <a href="https://twitter.com/usopen/status/1432113551146196994?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Murray v Tsitsipas

Then former champion Andy Murray faces a daunting challenge as he continues his return from his latest injury as he goes up against third-seeded Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece.

"Not the easiest draw out there," Murray, whose 2012 US Open triumph was the first of his three Grand Slam victories, said.

"When you're not seeded, these sorts of things can happen," Murray said, adding that he thought the New York crowd could help him.

"They like people that fight, give their all, show their heart and emotion and energy on the court," he said.

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We're all champions, every day 💪 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BeOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BeOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/2w2sKq8P9H">pic.twitter.com/2w2sKq8P9H</a>
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) <a href="https://twitter.com/usopen/status/1432118674723332103?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Elsewhere on Monday, former world number one Victoria Azarenka -- who fell to Osaka in last year's final -- takes on Czech Tereza Martincova on Grandstand court.

Also on Grandstand Simona Halep, who was forced out of her Wimbledon title defense with a calf injury, takes on Italian Camila Giorgi.

Women's second seed Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus faces Serb Nina Stojanovic to open the night session on Louis Armstrong court, where rising US star Coco Gauff anchors the day session and mercurial Australian Nick Kyrgios brings down the curtain against Spain's Roberto Bautista Agut.

Naomi Osaka launches her bid for a third US Open title in four years on Monday, aiming to put turmoil behind her as she chases her second Grand Slam title of 2021.

Naomi Osaka launches her bid for a third US Open title in four years on Monday, aiming to put turmoil behind her as she chases her second Grand Slam title of 2021. Osaka, who rocketed to fame when she beat superstar Serena Williams in the 2018 US Open final, appeared set for a sparkling 2021 campaign after she beat American Jen Brady in the Australian Open final in February to capture her fourth major crown. But she has played sparingly since, pulling out of the French Open after she was fined for failing to meet mandatory media requirements. Osaka, who said she believed post-match news conferences were detrimental to her mental health, opted out of Wimbledon as well, and after the magical moment of lighting the cauldron at the Tokyo Olympics bowed out in the third round. ALSO READ | Johanna Konta not sure if she should have taken COVID-19 vaccine "Did we just become best friends?!"@steftsitsipas & @dudewithsign met in person and the results were glorious. pic.twitter.com/KECZdfN9y4 — US Open Tennis (@usopen) August 27, 2021 × Although she also lost in the third round at Cincinnati in August, Osaka said she was "pretty happy" with her game heading into the high-pressure atmosphere of the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows. As she looked ahead to her Monday opener against Czech Marie Bouzkova Osaka said in a social media post that she wants to start to savor her accomplishments and let go of negative thoughts. "Recently I've been asking myself why do I feel the way I do and I realize one of the reasons is because internally I think I'm never good enough," she wrote. "I never tell myself that I've done a good job, but I do know I constantly tell myself that I suck or I could do better. "Seeing everything that's going on in the world I feel like if I wake up in the morning that's a win," Osaka wrote. "Your life is your own and you shouldn't value yourself on other people's standards. I know I give my heart to everything I can and if that's not good enough for some then my apologies but I can't burden myself with those expectations anymore." ALSO READ | COVID-19: Andy Murray urges fellow players to get vaccinated Osaka has already acknowledged that it will take some adjusting after last year's spectator ban to adjust to the return of fans to the 23,771-seat Arthur Ashe Stadium. Crowds at the normally rowdy Open will be back at full capacity, although organizers announced last week that all attendees will be required to provide proof of having received at least one Covid-19 vaccination. With world number one Novak Djokovic waiting in the wings, second-ranked Daniil Medvedev closes out the action on Ashe on Monday against French veteran Richard Gasquet. Play opens with former women's champion Sloane Stephens taking on Madison Keys in an All-American clash. Get ready for your return. Updated #USOpen health and safety protocols ⬇️ — US Open Tennis (@usopen) August 29, 2021 × Murray v Tsitsipas Then former champion Andy Murray faces a daunting challenge as he continues his return from his latest injury as he goes up against third-seeded Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece. "Not the easiest draw out there," Murray, whose 2012 US Open triumph was the first of his three Grand Slam victories, said. "When you're not seeded, these sorts of things can happen," Murray said, adding that he thought the New York crowd could help him. "They like people that fight, give their all, show their heart and emotion and energy on the court," he said. We're all champions, every day 💪 #BeOpen pic.twitter.com/2w2sKq8P9H — US Open Tennis (@usopen) August 29, 2021 × Elsewhere on Monday, former world number one Victoria Azarenka -- who fell to Osaka in last year's final -- takes on Czech Tereza Martincova on Grandstand court. Also on Grandstand Simona Halep, who was forced out of her Wimbledon title defense with a calf injury, takes on Italian Camila Giorgi. Women's second seed Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus faces Serb Nina Stojanovic to open the night session on Louis Armstrong court, where rising US star Coco Gauff anchors the day session and mercurial Australian Nick Kyrgios brings down the curtain against Spain's Roberto Bautista Agut.

Defending champion Naomi Osaka in spotlight as US Open begins

Germany`s Alexander Zverev produced a superb comeback against Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece to extend his winning streak to 10 matches and charge into the final of the Western &amp; Southern Open here on Sunday (IST). 
 
Feeling unwell and down a double break at 1-4 in the third set, the German clawed back to claim a 6-4, 3-6, 7-6(4) win and set up a title clash with world No. 7, Russia`s Andrey Rublev, who recorded his first victory over countryman Daniil Medvedev in his fifth attempt to reach his second ATP Masters 1000 final. Rublev won 2-6, 6-3, 6-3. 
 
Zverev, the Tokyo Olympics champion played exceptional tennis in the first set, dropped his level significantly in the second set before finding his gritty final act. Having been deserted by his serve throughout the middle of the match, Zverev slammed three aces to take a 6-5 lead in the decider and then controlled the tie-break by going five for five on first serves, sealing the victory with a second mini-break. 
 
"After the first break [to get to 2-4] I thought I had a chance and I felt he (Tsitsipas) wasn`t serving bombs and that I was in the rallies," Zverev told atptour.com. "It was a little bit of the mentality that I had against Novak at the Olympics. 
 
"It`s a great rivalry, there is a lot of fire and emotion there," Zverev said. "And before the US Open we didn`t want to give each other anything, which is what the match showed. It was a great battle and the last matches we have played have been like that. 
 
"I didn`t feel well," Zverev said. "In the middle of the second set I felt low energy and my stomach wasn`t great. I broke him at 4-2 in the third and went outside the court and did my thing. I started to feel better, the doctor came out and gave me a little medicine and my stomach started to calm down a little. The energy came back but I think that was also adrenaline." 
 
Tsitsipas, who also reached the semifinals last week in Toronto, now heads to the US Open with a Tour-leading 48 match wins on the season. 
 
Russia`s Andrey Rublev said after recording his first victory over countryman Daniil Medvedev in his fifth attempt that it had given him a lot of "confidence". 
 
"It gives me more confidence that I can compete against him. There are still so many things to improve, but It`s like you pass university and they give you a diploma," Rublev said of getting his first win against the world No.2. 
 
The fourth seed, who fell to Medvedev at the Australian Open in February, had not defeated the 12-time tour-level titlist in their previous four encounters. However, Rublev rallied in Ohio hitting powerful forehands to defeat Medvedev in two hours and 22 minutes and improve to 1-4 in their ATP head-to-head. 
 
"Even when I was 2-6 down, the score should not have been like this because the points were so tight," Rublev said. "The match was so intense, so many long rallies, super tough, super physical, super mental. A lot like a chess match. 
 
"Medvedev is one of those players who won`t give you a chance to attack, but if I have enough power and chose the right moment, I have to be the one to make him run. In the end, I was trying to find the perfect moment to start being more aggressive to open the angles," added Rublev.

Germany`s Alexander Zverev produced a superb comeback against Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece to extend his winning streak to 10 matches and charge into the final of the Western & Southern Open here on Sunday (IST).

Germany`s Alexander Zverev produced a superb comeback against Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece to extend his winning streak to 10 matches and charge into the final of the Western & Southern Open here on Sunday (IST). Feeling unwell and down a double break at 1-4 in the third set, the German clawed back to claim a 6-4, 3-6, 7-6(4) win and set up a title clash with world No. 7, Russia`s Andrey Rublev, who recorded his first victory over countryman Daniil Medvedev in his fifth attempt to reach his second ATP Masters 1000 final. Rublev won 2-6, 6-3, 6-3. Zverev, the Tokyo Olympics champion played exceptional tennis in the first set, dropped his level significantly in the second set before finding his gritty final act. Having been deserted by his serve throughout the middle of the match, Zverev slammed three aces to take a 6-5 lead in the decider and then controlled the tie-break by going five for five on first serves, sealing the victory with a second mini-break. "After the first break [to get to 2-4] I thought I had a chance and I felt he (Tsitsipas) wasn`t serving bombs and that I was in the rallies," Zverev told atptour.com. "It was a little bit of the mentality that I had against Novak at the Olympics. "It`s a great rivalry, there is a lot of fire and emotion there," Zverev said. "And before the US Open we didn`t want to give each other anything, which is what the match showed. It was a great battle and the last matches we have played have been like that. "I didn`t feel well," Zverev said. "In the middle of the second set I felt low energy and my stomach wasn`t great. I broke him at 4-2 in the third and went outside the court and did my thing. I started to feel better, the doctor came out and gave me a little medicine and my stomach started to calm down a little. The energy came back but I think that was also adrenaline." Tsitsipas, who also reached the semifinals last week in Toronto, now heads to the US Open with a Tour-leading 48 match wins on the season. Russia`s Andrey Rublev said after recording his first victory over countryman Daniil Medvedev in his fifth attempt that it had given him a lot of "confidence". "It gives me more confidence that I can compete against him. There are still so many things to improve, but It`s like you pass university and they give you a diploma," Rublev said of getting his first win against the world No.2. The fourth seed, who fell to Medvedev at the Australian Open in February, had not defeated the 12-time tour-level titlist in their previous four encounters. However, Rublev rallied in Ohio hitting powerful forehands to defeat Medvedev in two hours and 22 minutes and improve to 1-4 in their ATP head-to-head. "Even when I was 2-6 down, the score should not have been like this because the points were so tight," Rublev said. "The match was so intense, so many long rallies, super tough, super physical, super mental. A lot like a chess match. "Medvedev is one of those players who won`t give you a chance to attack, but if I have enough power and chose the right moment, I have to be the one to make him run. In the end, I was trying to find the perfect moment to start being more aggressive to open the angles," added Rublev.

Alexander Zverev overcomes Tsitsipas to set up title clash with Rublev

For the second time in three days at the ATP Finals, Rafael Nadal fought off one of the game's rising powers but beating Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas proved in vain as his semi-final hopes vanished on Friday.

The indomitable Spaniard delighted his fans in the 02 Arena as he recovered from losing the opening set to beat Tsitsipas 6-7(4) 6-4 7-5, after which he was presented with a huge trophy for sealing the end-of-year number one ranking.

Sadly for Nadal, and all those who were looking forward to him taking on Roger Federer in Saturday's semi-finals, Germany's defending champion Alexander Zverev had not read the script.

The round-robin format at the ATP Finals throws up some complicated scenarios. None more so than Friday.

Tsitsipas had already qualified for the semi-finals courtesy of wins over Daniil Medvedev and Zverev, while Nadal needed a win and for Medvedev to beat Zverev in the night match.

Had that happened he would have topped the group. Instead, Zverev's clinical 6-4 7-6(4) win relegated Nadal to third despite also having two wins. Tsitsipas won the group while Zverev took second place courtesy of his head-to-head advantage over Nadal who he beat impressively on Monday.

Perhaps it had been asking too much for the 23-year-old Medvedev to save him. After all, Nadal beat the Russian in an epic US Open final, came back from 1-5 down in the third set to beat him here on Wednesday and then his win over Tsitsipas effectively ended Medvedev's slim semi-final chances.

The Russian won more matches (59) then any other player this year but was not at his best against Zverev and went home from his London debut with three losses.

Tsitsipas must now recover from his near three-hour loss to Nadal to face Federer in Saturday's first semi-final before Zverev takes on Austrian Dominic Thiem.

Super happy

Federer's win to knock out Novak Djokovic on Thursday meant Nadal will end the year as number one for the fifth time.

But the Herculean effort he put in to beat Tsitsipas suggested he really wanted to get his hands on the ATP Finals trophy for the first time after finishing runner-up in 2010 and 2013.

At least Nadal signed off in style. After winning a 12th French Open this year and the US&nbsp;Open and reaching the final at the Australian Open and semi-final at Wimbledon, few could deny him his trophy celebration on Friday.

"Honestly, what can I say? I am super happy," Nadal, the oldest man to finish a year ranked number one, told the crowd. "After all the things that I went through in my career in terms of injuries, I never thought at the age of 33 and a half that I will have this trophy in my hands again."

Tsitsipas had not dropped a set before Friday and duly took the opening set with an ace to clinch a tiebreak.

Nadal was never going down without a fight though and began to play with a frightening intensity in the second set, pumping himself up with roars of "Vamos" after winning key points.

Tsitsipas saved break points at 2-2 and 3-3 but Nadal was now in hunting mode and at 4-4 he finally cornered his prey to break for the first time.

The final set went with serve as the two players slugged it out from the baseline but Tsitsipas blinked first, dropping serve at 5-5 when Nadal forced a volley error.

Nadal then held serve for victory but rather than prepare for a 41st clash with Federer he can instead focus on next week's revamped Davis Cup Finals.

Tsitsipas, whose all-court style has made such an impression on his debut, might rue the energy expended in going toe-to-toe with the game's greatest warrior.

"I wanted to win but probably wasn't willing to die on the court for that, my main focus is doing well in the semi-finals," he said. "I did leave something in the tank."

World number one doubles pair Juan Sebastian Cabal and Robert Farah scraped into the semi-finals after beating German duo Kevin Krawietz and Andreas Mies 7-6(7) 6-2 for their first group win. They will face Raven Klassen and Michael Venus.

For the second time in three days at the ATP Finals, Rafael Nadal fought off one of the game's rising powers but beating Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas proved in vain as his semi-final hopes vanished on Friday.

For the second time in three days at the ATP Finals, Rafael Nadal fought off one of the game's rising powers but beating Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas proved in vain as his semi-final hopes vanished on Friday. The indomitable Spaniard delighted his fans in the 02 Arena as he recovered from losing the opening set to beat Tsitsipas 6-7(4) 6-4 7-5, after which he was presented with a huge trophy for sealing the end-of-year number one ranking. Sadly for Nadal, and all those who were looking forward to him taking on Roger Federer in Saturday's semi-finals, Germany's defending champion Alexander Zverev had not read the script. The round-robin format at the ATP Finals throws up some complicated scenarios. None more so than Friday. Tsitsipas had already qualified for the semi-finals courtesy of wins over Daniil Medvedev and Zverev, while Nadal needed a win and for Medvedev to beat Zverev in the night match. Had that happened he would have topped the group. Instead, Zverev's clinical 6-4 7-6(4) win relegated Nadal to third despite also having two wins. Tsitsipas won the group while Zverev took second place courtesy of his head-to-head advantage over Nadal who he beat impressively on Monday. Perhaps it had been asking too much for the 23-year-old Medvedev to save him. After all, Nadal beat the Russian in an epic US Open final, came back from 1-5 down in the third set to beat him here on Wednesday and then his win over Tsitsipas effectively ended Medvedev's slim semi-final chances. The Russian won more matches (59) then any other player this year but was not at his best against Zverev and went home from his London debut with three losses. Tsitsipas must now recover from his near three-hour loss to Nadal to face Federer in Saturday's first semi-final before Zverev takes on Austrian Dominic Thiem. Super happy Federer's win to knock out Novak Djokovic on Thursday meant Nadal will end the year as number one for the fifth time. But the Herculean effort he put in to beat Tsitsipas suggested he really wanted to get his hands on the ATP Finals trophy for the first time after finishing runner-up in 2010 and 2013. At least Nadal signed off in style. After winning a 12th French Open this year and the US Open and reaching the final at the Australian Open and semi-final at Wimbledon, few could deny him his trophy celebration on Friday. "Honestly, what can I say? I am super happy," Nadal, the oldest man to finish a year ranked number one, told the crowd. "After all the things that I went through in my career in terms of injuries, I never thought at the age of 33 and a half that I will have this trophy in my hands again." Tsitsipas had not dropped a set before Friday and duly took the opening set with an ace to clinch a tiebreak. Nadal was never going down without a fight though and began to play with a frightening intensity in the second set, pumping himself up with roars of "Vamos" after winning key points. Tsitsipas saved break points at 2-2 and 3-3 but Nadal was now in hunting mode and at 4-4 he finally cornered his prey to break for the first time. The final set went with serve as the two players slugged it out from the baseline but Tsitsipas blinked first, dropping serve at 5-5 when Nadal forced a volley error. Nadal then held serve for victory but rather than prepare for a 41st clash with Federer he can instead focus on next week's revamped Davis Cup Finals. Tsitsipas, whose all-court style has made such an impression on his debut, might rue the energy expended in going toe-to-toe with the game's greatest warrior. "I wanted to win but probably wasn't willing to die on the court for that, my main focus is doing well in the semi-finals," he said. "I did leave something in the tank." World number one doubles pair Juan Sebastian Cabal and Robert Farah scraped into the semi-finals after beating German duo Kevin Krawietz and Andreas Mies 7-6(7) 6-2 for their first group win. They will face Raven Klassen and Michael Venus.

Rafael Nadal knocked out from ATP Finals despite win over Stefanos Tsitsipas, Zverev through to semis

Team Europe took a 3-1 lead over Team World on the first day of the Laver Cup after winning two of three singles matches and the doubles contest in front of a sellout crowd in Geneva on Friday.

Dominic Thiem and Stefanos Tsitsipas won their respective singles matches before Roger Federer and Alexander Zverev teamed up in the doubles, saving a whopping 15 of 16 break points to beat Jack Sock and Denis Shapovalov 6-3 7-5.

"All of us tennis players travel around the world for 10-11 months of the year," Federer said. "There's no place like playing at home so this is a very special night for me."

Greek Tsitsipas, ranked seventh in the world, kicked off the evening session with a 6-2 1-6 10-7 win over American Taylor Fritz, claiming the opening set in 24 minutes with two breaks of serve.

Although Fritz battled back in the second, winning six of the next seven games to level the score, Tsitsipas capitalised when Fritz double-faulted at 7-7 in the super tiebreak -- a race to 10 points when the match goes into a third set.

"I think the momentum changed in the third set tiebreak," Tsitsipas said. "I found my rhythm, had a more clear mind on the court, didn't rush so much. I think that played a crucial role in closing it at the end."

Earlier, in the first session, Europe struck first when Austrian Thiem beat Canada's Shapovalov 6-4 5-7 13-11, saving three match points in the super tiebreak.

Thiem, ranked fifth in the world, needed only one break of serve to take the opening set, but the 20-year-old Shapovalov fought back to break twice in the second set to tie the game at one set apiece.

The young Canadian led 9-7 in the tiebreak before squandering his match points as Thiem clawed his way back to win the contest on his second match point.

"It's a really special thing with the tiebreak in the third," Thiem said. "It creates lots of close moments and match points on either side. It's also a little bit of luck at the end."

American Sock earned Team World their only point of the day after securing a 6-1 7-6(3) win over Italian Fabio Fognini.

Fognini failed to convert any of his six break points in the match as Sock won five games in a row to take the opening set.

Federer and Rafa Nadal, with a total of 39 Grand Slams between them, gave Fognini plenty of advice during breaks in play as the second set went with serve until the tiebreak.

But Sock came away victorious after Fognini double-faulted at 3-5 before the Italian made a backhand error to surrender the match.

Team Europe took a 3-1 lead over Team World on the first day of the Laver Cup after winning two of three singles matches and the doubles contest in front of a sellout crowd in Geneva on Friday.

Team Europe took a 3-1 lead over Team World on the first day of the Laver Cup after winning two of three singles matches and the doubles contest in front of a sellout crowd in Geneva on Friday. Dominic Thiem and Stefanos Tsitsipas won their respective singles matches before Roger Federer and Alexander Zverev teamed up in the doubles, saving a whopping 15 of 16 break points to beat Jack Sock and Denis Shapovalov 6-3 7-5. "All of us tennis players travel around the world for 10-11 months of the year," Federer said. "There's no place like playing at home so this is a very special night for me." Greek Tsitsipas, ranked seventh in the world, kicked off the evening session with a 6-2 1-6 10-7 win over American Taylor Fritz, claiming the opening set in 24 minutes with two breaks of serve. Although Fritz battled back in the second, winning six of the next seven games to level the score, Tsitsipas capitalised when Fritz double-faulted at 7-7 in the super tiebreak -- a race to 10 points when the match goes into a third set. "I think the momentum changed in the third set tiebreak," Tsitsipas said. "I found my rhythm, had a more clear mind on the court, didn't rush so much. I think that played a crucial role in closing it at the end." Earlier, in the first session, Europe struck first when Austrian Thiem beat Canada's Shapovalov 6-4 5-7 13-11, saving three match points in the super tiebreak. Thiem, ranked fifth in the world, needed only one break of serve to take the opening set, but the 20-year-old Shapovalov fought back to break twice in the second set to tie the game at one set apiece. The young Canadian led 9-7 in the tiebreak before squandering his match points as Thiem clawed his way back to win the contest on his second match point. "It's a really special thing with the tiebreak in the third," Thiem said. "It creates lots of close moments and match points on either side. It's also a little bit of luck at the end." American Sock earned Team World their only point of the day after securing a 6-1 7-6(3) win over Italian Fabio Fognini. Fognini failed to convert any of his six break points in the match as Sock won five games in a row to take the opening set. Federer and Rafa Nadal, with a total of 39 Grand Slams between them, gave Fognini plenty of advice during breaks in play as the second set went with serve until the tiebreak. But Sock came away victorious after Fognini double-faulted at 3-5 before the Italian made a backhand error to surrender the match.

Europe lead Team World 3-1 after first day in Laver Cup

A shoe mishap struck Greek top seed Stefanos Tsitsipas for a third consecutive match Friday at the ATP Washington Open but couldn't stop him from continuing his impressive run.

Tsitsipas, who will rise to world number five on Monday, defeated French 10th seed Benoit Paire 7-5, 6-0 in a 74-minute quarter-final, but not until after his laces broke at a key moment and he changed to a new left shoe.

That delay brought complaints from Paire and a statement shoe change by the Frenchman in what quickly became known as "Shoe-gate."

With Tsitsipas up 2-0 and serving at deuce, his left shoelaces broke and he delayed the game while going to his chair for a new shoe.

"My laces are breaking on the last hole, when I'm sliding forehand side. My laces touch the ground. There's a friction that causes the breakage of my shoelaces."

Paire, irked by the unexpected stoppage, complained to the umpire to no avail.

"In a way he was right," Tsitsipas said. "It has happened many times in the past. I've been struggling with it.

"I'm not doing it on purpose. Some people think I'm doing it on purpose. It always happens in crucial moments when I'm trying really hard to give everything on the court.

"It's very irritating for me to keep playing with a shoe that's not tight. It can fall off at any moment during the rally. Once in Barcelona it happened."

Later, Paire halted the match to make his own shoe change, giving the umpire a mournful look as he pointed to his left shoe while walking to his chair in what appeared to be a protest.

"That was funny," Tsitsipas said, chuckling at the memory of Paire's move. "I didn't know whether to laugh or keep a serious face. It was hilarious."

Australia's Nick Kyrgios, who will face Tsitsipas in the semi-finals, added: "It was quite humorous."

Tsitsipas said that he and Paire were on good terms after the match, laughing together as they shook hands at the net.

"He even told me there was nothing between him and me with the shoelace thing," Tsitsipas said.

Shoemaker Adidas has sent him an extra four or five pairs of only left shoes because of his issues.

He is also trying to adjust his footwork, but for now Tsitsipas and his rivals must live with it.

"I know it can be frustrating sometimes when you take too much time and it's 40-all and a big time in the match," Tsitsipas said.

"But it's inside the rules."

A shoe mishap struck Greek top seed Stefanos Tsitsipas for a third consecutive match Friday at the ATP Washington Open but couldn't stop him from continuing his impressive run.

A shoe mishap struck Greek top seed Stefanos Tsitsipas for a third consecutive match Friday at the ATP Washington Open but couldn't stop him from continuing his impressive run. Tsitsipas, who will rise to world number five on Monday, defeated French 10th seed Benoit Paire 7-5, 6-0 in a 74-minute quarter-final, but not until after his laces broke at a key moment and he changed to a new left shoe. That delay brought complaints from Paire and a statement shoe change by the Frenchman in what quickly became known as "Shoe-gate." With Tsitsipas up 2-0 and serving at deuce, his left shoelaces broke and he delayed the game while going to his chair for a new shoe. "My laces are breaking on the last hole, when I'm sliding forehand side. My laces touch the ground. There's a friction that causes the breakage of my shoelaces." Paire, irked by the unexpected stoppage, complained to the umpire to no avail. "In a way he was right," Tsitsipas said. "It has happened many times in the past. I've been struggling with it. "I'm not doing it on purpose. Some people think I'm doing it on purpose. It always happens in crucial moments when I'm trying really hard to give everything on the court. "It's very irritating for me to keep playing with a shoe that's not tight. It can fall off at any moment during the rally. Once in Barcelona it happened." Later, Paire halted the match to make his own shoe change, giving the umpire a mournful look as he pointed to his left shoe while walking to his chair in what appeared to be a protest. "That was funny," Tsitsipas said, chuckling at the memory of Paire's move. "I didn't know whether to laugh or keep a serious face. It was hilarious." Australia's Nick Kyrgios, who will face Tsitsipas in the semi-finals, added: "It was quite humorous." Tsitsipas said that he and Paire were on good terms after the match, laughing together as they shook hands at the net. "He even told me there was nothing between him and me with the shoelace thing," Tsitsipas said. Shoemaker Adidas has sent him an extra four or five pairs of only left shoes because of his issues. He is also trying to adjust his footwork, but for now Tsitsipas and his rivals must live with it. "I know it can be frustrating sometimes when you take too much time and it's 40-all and a big time in the match," Tsitsipas said. "But it's inside the rules."

'Shoe-gate' continues for Stefano Tsitsipas in Washington

Novak Djokovic joined Rafael Nadal as a 33-time Masters champion on Sunday when he swept to a 6-3, 6-4 win over Stefanos Tsitsipas to claim a third Madrid Open title.

The world number one dominated a clearly exhausted opponent less than 24 hours after the 20-year-old Greek had stunned five-time champion Nadal in a semi-final which ended around midnight on Saturday.

Djokovic and Nadal will now attempt to claim a 34th Masters title in Rome this week in a key indicator ahead of Roland Garros which gets under way on May 26.

Djokovic never let Tsitsipas get into gear in a final which lasted just over 90 minutes.&nbsp;

"This is a very important win for me, especially for my confidence," 15-time Grand Slam winner Djokovic said.

"I was not playing my best after winning the Australia Open but I started this week well, not dropping a set all through. I've played some of my best tennis here."

Tsitsipas, who beat Djokovic in their previous meeting last summer in Canada, was broken once in each set, enough of a margin for the top seed to take the trophy, his second of the season after the Australian Open.

The Serb still needed four match points to get the job done with Tsitsipas finally beaten when Djokovic sent a winning volley into the corner.

Tsitsipas hailed Djokovic who will hold all four Slam titles if he goes on to claim a second French Open next month.

"It's inspiring what you do, simply amazing. You deserve it," the Greek told the Serb.&nbsp;

"You had a great week. It was also a great one for me, with good memories and good crowd support."

Djokovic said he was likely facing an opponent lacking a few physical reserves after a long semi-final struggle with Nadal.

"I needed to step up, Stefanos is very talented. But he finished around midnight -- he had a very late night and a very long match.

"This was a big week for me and I'm looking forward to continuing like this in Rome.&nbsp;

"The Masters 1000s are the biggest ATP events, right alongside the Grand Slams. This is about as important and good as it gets."

Tsitsipas was playing his second Masters 1000 final after losing to Nadal in Toronto last August.

Novak Djokovic joined Rafael Nadal as a 33-time Masters champion on Sunday when he swept to a 6-3, 6-4 win over Stefanos Tsitsipas to claim a third Madrid Open title.

Novak Djokovic joined Rafael Nadal as a 33-time Masters champion on Sunday when he swept to a 6-3, 6-4 win over Stefanos Tsitsipas to claim a third Madrid Open title. The world number one dominated a clearly exhausted opponent less than 24 hours after the 20-year-old Greek had stunned five-time champion Nadal in a semi-final which ended around midnight on Saturday. Djokovic and Nadal will now attempt to claim a 34th Masters title in Rome this week in a key indicator ahead of Roland Garros which gets under way on May 26. Djokovic never let Tsitsipas get into gear in a final which lasted just over 90 minutes. "This is a very important win for me, especially for my confidence," 15-time Grand Slam winner Djokovic said. "I was not playing my best after winning the Australia Open but I started this week well, not dropping a set all through. I've played some of my best tennis here." Tsitsipas, who beat Djokovic in their previous meeting last summer in Canada, was broken once in each set, enough of a margin for the top seed to take the trophy, his second of the season after the Australian Open. The Serb still needed four match points to get the job done with Tsitsipas finally beaten when Djokovic sent a winning volley into the corner. Tsitsipas hailed Djokovic who will hold all four Slam titles if he goes on to claim a second French Open next month. "It's inspiring what you do, simply amazing. You deserve it," the Greek told the Serb. "You had a great week. It was also a great one for me, with good memories and good crowd support." Djokovic said he was likely facing an opponent lacking a few physical reserves after a long semi-final struggle with Nadal. "I needed to step up, Stefanos is very talented. But he finished around midnight -- he had a very late night and a very long match. "This was a big week for me and I'm looking forward to continuing like this in Rome. "The Masters 1000s are the biggest ATP events, right alongside the Grand Slams. This is about as important and good as it gets." Tsitsipas was playing his second Masters 1000 final after losing to Nadal in Toronto last August.

Novak Djokovic wins third Madrid title and 33rd Masters

A wildcard has been reserved for former world number one <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/andy-murray-returns-to-court-after-hip-surgery-207515&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj9sbH6kYniAhU18HMBHaf_B8oQFjAAegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3aj44rDVOVOTLKUB3YsOEQ">Andy Murray</a> to play at the Queen's Club Championships in June but the Scottish player has been given time to confirm his participation, organisers said on Tuesday.

Murray, a three-time Grand Slam champion, has not played competitively since his first round exit at the Australian Open in January.

He has since <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/andy-murray-to-retire-this-year-due-to-pain-from-surgically-repaired-hip-189553&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj9sbH6kYniAhU18HMBHaf_B8oQFjAFegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0txf8tWQHE8nTScvgcZDHK">undergone hip resurfacing surgery</a>.

The 31-year-old said last month he was pain-free but under no pressure to return and that he would attempt to make a comeback only if his body allowed it.

"A wildcard is being held for five-time champion Andy Murray, who will confirm closer to the time if he's fit enough to compete," organisers said in a statement.

The tournament's main draw begins on June 17.

The Queen's Club Championships, where Murray last won the title in 2016, has traditionally been a warm-up tournament for Wimbledon.

Organisers said in February that defending champion Marin Cilic would take part this year while Kevin Anderson, Juan Martin del Potro, Stefanos Tsitsipas and Stan Wawrinka have also confirmed their participation. 
&nbsp;

A wildcard has been reserved for former world number one Andy Murray to play at the Queen's Club Championships in June but the Scottish player has been given time to confirm his participation, organisers said on Tuesday.

A wildcard has been reserved for former world number one Andy Murray to play at the Queen's Club Championships in June but the Scottish player has been given time to confirm his participation, organisers said on Tuesday. Murray, a three-time Grand Slam champion, has not played competitively since his first round exit at the Australian Open in January. He has since undergone hip resurfacing surgery. The 31-year-old said last month he was pain-free but under no pressure to return and that he would attempt to make a comeback only if his body allowed it. "A wildcard is being held for five-time champion Andy Murray, who will confirm closer to the time if he's fit enough to compete," organisers said in a statement. The tournament's main draw begins on June 17. The Queen's Club Championships, where Murray last won the title in 2016, has traditionally been a warm-up tournament for Wimbledon. Organisers said in February that defending champion Marin Cilic would take part this year while Kevin Anderson, Juan Martin del Potro, Stefanos Tsitsipas and Stan Wawrinka have also confirmed their participation.

Andy Murray given wildcard for Queen's Club Championships

Roger Federer defeated Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-4, 6-4 in the final of the Dubai Championships to win his 100th career title.&nbsp;

The Swiss star is the second man to achieve the feat after America's Jimmy Connors who ended his career with 109 titles.&nbsp;

After winning the title,&nbsp;Federer hailed his "wonderful journey".&nbsp;

He said, "I'm so happy I'm still playing. It's been a long wonderful journey,"

"I've loved every minute. Winning 100 is an absolute dream come true,"&nbsp;Federer added.&nbsp;

"It's so special to win my eighth here combined with 100," Federer said. "I had tough opponents all the way through -- right up to Stefanos today.&nbsp;

"He's already having a great career, the game is in good hands."&nbsp;

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💯 titles for the 🐐 <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> <a href="https://t.co/3t3y5JO59N">pic.twitter.com/3t3y5JO59N</a>
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Tsitsipas, who will become the first Greek to ever reach the world's top 10 on Monday, paid tribute to his opponent.

"I've been idolizing him since the age of 6... And now sharing the court, it's even better," the 20-year-old said.

"100 is just completely insane -- I'd be happy with 100 wins. Seriously, I'm trying to get there."

Earlier he had said, "Reaching 100 titles -- we're still far from it. I'm just going to try to focus and play good tennis."

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

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

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

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

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

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

Roger Federer in pursuit of historic title in Dubai