Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz swept past Dan Evans 6-2, 6-2 on Saturday to set up a Barcelona Open final clash with Stefanos Tsitsipas.&nbsp;

The Greek second seed earlier defeated Lorenzo Musetti 6-4, 5-7, 6-3 to reach the final for the third time.&nbsp;

World number two Alcaraz beat Tsitsipas in the quarter-finals at Barcelona last year in three sets in what was the Spaniard's third win in three meetings against the Greek.

Alcaraz missed the Monte Carlo Masters last week because of hand and back problems and has not been at his most consistent on his way to the final.

An easy win over Nuno Borges was followed by trickier triumphs against Spanish compatriots Roberto Bautista Agut and Alejandro Davidovich Fokina.

Chasing down his third title of the season after triumphs at Buenos Aires and Indian Wells, home favourite Alcaraz started impressively.

The 19-year-old top seed won the first game without dropping a point, sealing it with an ace, ominously for Evans, who was pulled all over the court.

Alcaraz broke for a 3-1 lead and the 2022 US Open champion showed little mercy from then on, winning six consecutive games before Evans broke for the first time, to trail 4-1 in the second set.

Alcaraz clinched victory after an hour and 20 minutes with another pinpoint winner past Evans.

Tsitsipas lost on both occasions he reached the Barcelona final against Rafael Nadal in 2018 and 2021.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/veteran-ms-dhoni-drops-a-bombshell-on-his-ipl-future-says-its-the-last-phase-of-my-career-and-i-am-585010">Veteran MS Dhoni drops a bombshell on his IPL future, says 'it's the last phase of my career and I am...'</a>

Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam title winner, pulled out this year as he recovers from a hip injury.

- 'Lion's determination' -

World number five Tsitsipas needed three sets to beat Musetti, who put up a decent fight.

"We had to cover lots of metres on the court and he had some incredible defensive shots that I really didn't expect at all, it was such a mental challenge," said Tsitsipas.

"I had to go out there and fight it all through (with) the determination of a lion, and just (went) out there to do the best I can."

Musetti twice went a break up in an entertaining first set, but Tsitsipas, runner-up at the Australian Open in January, battled back immediately both times.

The Italian saved match point in the second set at 5-4 down to force a decisive third set, but was outplayed by his opponent, who showed more focus than earlier on.&nbsp;

Tsitsipas survived a break point in the first game of the third set and then broke himself for 2-0, applying pressure on Musetti's serve.

Musetti did not have to play his quarter-final clash after Jannik Sinner withdrew through illness, but Tsitsipas was the stronger in the third set.

Tsitsipas wrapped up the win after two hours and 28 minutes, seeing out his final two service games without dropping a point.

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz swept past Dan Evans 6-2, 6-2 on Saturday to set up a Barcelona Open final clash with Stefanos Tsitsipas. The Greek second seed earlier defeated Lorenzo Musetti 6-4, 5-7, 6-3 to reach the final for the third time.

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz swept past Dan Evans 6-2, 6-2 on Saturday to set up a Barcelona Open final clash with Stefanos Tsitsipas. The Greek second seed earlier defeated Lorenzo Musetti 6-4, 5-7, 6-3 to reach the final for the third time. World number two Alcaraz beat Tsitsipas in the quarter-finals at Barcelona last year in three sets in what was the Spaniard's third win in three meetings against the Greek. Alcaraz missed the Monte Carlo Masters last week because of hand and back problems and has not been at his most consistent on his way to the final. An easy win over Nuno Borges was followed by trickier triumphs against Spanish compatriots Roberto Bautista Agut and Alejandro Davidovich Fokina. Chasing down his third title of the season after triumphs at Buenos Aires and Indian Wells, home favourite Alcaraz started impressively. The 19-year-old top seed won the first game without dropping a point, sealing it with an ace, ominously for Evans, who was pulled all over the court. Alcaraz broke for a 3-1 lead and the 2022 US Open champion showed little mercy from then on, winning six consecutive games before Evans broke for the first time, to trail 4-1 in the second set. Alcaraz clinched victory after an hour and 20 minutes with another pinpoint winner past Evans. Tsitsipas lost on both occasions he reached the Barcelona final against Rafael Nadal in 2018 and 2021. ALSO READ | Veteran MS Dhoni drops a bombshell on his IPL future, says 'it's the last phase of my career and I am...' Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam title winner, pulled out this year as he recovers from a hip injury. - 'Lion's determination' - World number five Tsitsipas needed three sets to beat Musetti, who put up a decent fight. "We had to cover lots of metres on the court and he had some incredible defensive shots that I really didn't expect at all, it was such a mental challenge," said Tsitsipas. "I had to go out there and fight it all through (with) the determination of a lion, and just (went) out there to do the best I can." Musetti twice went a break up in an entertaining first set, but Tsitsipas, runner-up at the Australian Open in January, battled back immediately both times. The Italian saved match point in the second set at 5-4 down to force a decisive third set, but was outplayed by his opponent, who showed more focus than earlier on. Tsitsipas survived a break point in the first game of the third set and then broke himself for 2-0, applying pressure on Musetti's serve. Musetti did not have to play his quarter-final clash after Jannik Sinner withdrew through illness, but Tsitsipas was the stronger in the third set. Tsitsipas wrapped up the win after two hours and 28 minutes, seeing out his final two service games without dropping a point.

Barcelona Open: Carlos Alcaraz eases past Dan Evans to set up Stefanos Tsitsipas final

Stefanos Tsitsipas defeated Lorenzo Musetti 6-4, 5-7, 6-3 on Saturday to reach the Barcelona Open final for the third time.

The Greek second seed lost on both occasions against Rafael Nadal in 2018 and 2021 and may face defending champion Carlos Alcaraz on Sunday, who plays Dan Evans later Saturday in the other semi-final.

Musetti twice went a break up in an entertaining first set, but Tsitsipas, runner-up at the Australian Open in January, battled back immediately both times.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpools-jurgen-klopp-believes-in-underperforming-darwin-nunez-backs-him-to-be-a-future-star-at-anfield-585091">Liverpool's Jurgen Klopp believes in underperforming Darwin Nunez, backs him to be a future star at Anfield</a>

The Italian saved match point in the second set at 4-5 to force a decisive third set, but was outplayed in it by his opponent, who showed more focus than earlier on.

Tsitsipas survived a break point in the first game of the third set and then broke himself for 2-0, applying pressure on Musetti's serve which he could not live with.

Musetti did not have to play his quarter-final clash after Jannik Sinner withdrew through illness, but Tsitsipas was the stronger in the third set.

Tsitsipas wrapped up the win after two hours and 28 minutes, seeing out his final two service games without dropping a point.

World number two Alcaraz is aiming for his third title of the season in Barcelona, after triumphing at Indian Wells and Buenos Aires.

In the Spaniard's way lies Evans, who defeated Casper Ruud's conqueror Francisco Cerundolo on Thursday to reach the semis, but lost in straight sets in his only prior clash with Alcaraz in 2021.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Stefanos Tsitsipas defeated Lorenzo Musetti 6-4, 5-7, 6-3 on Saturday to reach the Barcelona Open final for the third time. The Greek second seed lost on both occasions against Rafael Nadal in 2018 and 2021 and may face defending champion Carlos Alcaraz on Sunday, who plays Dan Evans later Saturday in the other semi-final.

Stefanos Tsitsipas defeated Lorenzo Musetti 6-4, 5-7, 6-3 on Saturday to reach the Barcelona Open final for the third time. The Greek second seed lost on both occasions against Rafael Nadal in 2018 and 2021 and may face defending champion Carlos Alcaraz on Sunday, who plays Dan Evans later Saturday in the other semi-final. Musetti twice went a break up in an entertaining first set, but Tsitsipas, runner-up at the Australian Open in January, battled back immediately both times. Also Read: Liverpool's Jurgen Klopp believes in underperforming Darwin Nunez, backs him to be a future star at Anfield The Italian saved match point in the second set at 4-5 to force a decisive third set, but was outplayed in it by his opponent, who showed more focus than earlier on. Tsitsipas survived a break point in the first game of the third set and then broke himself for 2-0, applying pressure on Musetti's serve which he could not live with. Musetti did not have to play his quarter-final clash after Jannik Sinner withdrew through illness, but Tsitsipas was the stronger in the third set. Tsitsipas wrapped up the win after two hours and 28 minutes, seeing out his final two service games without dropping a point. World number two Alcaraz is aiming for his third title of the season in Barcelona, after triumphing at Indian Wells and Buenos Aires. In the Spaniard's way lies Evans, who defeated Casper Ruud's conqueror Francisco Cerundolo on Thursday to reach the semis, but lost in straight sets in his only prior clash with Alcaraz in 2021. 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.

Stefanos Tsitsipas defeats Lorenzo Musetti to enter Barcelona Open final

Taylor Fritz earned a win on Friday at the Monte-Carlo Masters as he overcame defending champion Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-2, 6-4 to reach the semi-finals. Tsitsipas entered the match on a 12-match winning streak in Monte-Carlo, having won the ATP Masters 1000 event in 2021 and 2022. He was unable to find his best level, however, against Fritz, who forced the Greek into 18 unforced errors with his weight and depth of shot in order to advance after 70 minutes.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
And then there were 4… 
 
Who will take home the Monte-Carlo 🏆?<a href="https://twitter.com/ROLEXMCMASTERS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ROLEXMCMASTERS</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolexMonteCarloMasters?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolexMonteCarloMasters</a> <a href="https://t.co/UZPoLgiDVU">pic.twitter.com/UZPoLgiDVU</a>
— ATP Tour (@atptour) <a href="https://twitter.com/atptour/status/1646953128254754821?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The American will next meet Andrey Rublev after the fifth seed defeated German qualifier Jan-Lennard Struff. Fritz hit 17 winners and was dominant on his second serve, winning 70% (14/20) of points with his second delivery to advance to his third ATP Masters 1000 semi-final.

"I thought my level today was very high. I think I played a very good match. Beating him here gives me a lot of confidence. It has given me the reassurance I need to know I can play well on clay. I seemed to play well on the big points. I took my chances. I knew that if I played too safe he would be able to get around and dictate on the forehand. So even in the pressure moments, I pulled the trigger," ATP.com quoted Fritz as saying.

Elsewhere at Court 9, Holger Rune continues to build an impressive record as he defeated the in-form Daniil Medvedev 6-3, 6-4 on Friday at the Monte-Carlo Masters to reach his second ATP Masters 1000 semi-final.

Rune broke Medvedev again for 2-1 in the second set after clinching the only break of the first set in the fourth game, as his aggressive hitting kept the third seed under constant pressure. Despite Medvedev immediately reclaiming the break to give himself a chance to win his 27th tour-level match, Rune's sharp returning engineered another, and this time decisive, break in the ninth game.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/media-rights-deal-for-indian-cricket-for-2023-2027-cycle-could-be-completed-by-july-hints-jay-shah-582556">Media rights deal for Indian cricket for 2023-2027 cycle could be completed by July, hints Jay Shah</a>

"It wasn't easy for sure, it's always tough to play Daniil. It was actually my first time playing against him in a real match, but we've practised tonnes of times. I have huge respect for everything he's done. The last week it was not easy to stop him but I'm happy I managed to do it," said Rune, who has risen two spots to No. 7 in the Pepperstone ATP Live Rankings as a result of his Monte-Carlo run.

"It's just really staying in the moment. His serve is huge, he can hit every target, it's very effortless I would say. He can just toss the ball and goes full. When it's in and on the line, there's nothing to do, you just have to accept it and try to see every chance you can get and take it," Rune said.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Taylor Fritz earned a win on Friday at the Monte-Carlo Masters as he overcame defending champion Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-2, 6-4 to reach the semi-finals. Tsitsipas entered the match on a 12-match winning streak in Monte-Carlo, having won the ATP Masters 1000 event in 2021 and 2022.

Taylor Fritz earned a win on Friday at the Monte-Carlo Masters as he overcame defending champion Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-2, 6-4 to reach the semi-finals. Tsitsipas entered the match on a 12-match winning streak in Monte-Carlo, having won the ATP Masters 1000 event in 2021 and 2022. He was unable to find his best level, however, against Fritz, who forced the Greek into 18 unforced errors with his weight and depth of shot in order to advance after 70 minutes. And then there were 4… Who will take home the Monte-Carlo 🏆?@ROLEXMCMASTERS | #RolexMonteCarloMasters pic.twitter.com/UZPoLgiDVU — ATP Tour (@atptour) April 14, 2023 × The American will next meet Andrey Rublev after the fifth seed defeated German qualifier Jan-Lennard Struff. Fritz hit 17 winners and was dominant on his second serve, winning 70% (14/20) of points with his second delivery to advance to his third ATP Masters 1000 semi-final. "I thought my level today was very high. I think I played a very good match. Beating him here gives me a lot of confidence. It has given me the reassurance I need to know I can play well on clay. I seemed to play well on the big points. I took my chances. I knew that if I played too safe he would be able to get around and dictate on the forehand. So even in the pressure moments, I pulled the trigger," ATP.com quoted Fritz as saying. Elsewhere at Court 9, Holger Rune continues to build an impressive record as he defeated the in-form Daniil Medvedev 6-3, 6-4 on Friday at the Monte-Carlo Masters to reach his second ATP Masters 1000 semi-final. Rune broke Medvedev again for 2-1 in the second set after clinching the only break of the first set in the fourth game, as his aggressive hitting kept the third seed under constant pressure. Despite Medvedev immediately reclaiming the break to give himself a chance to win his 27th tour-level match, Rune's sharp returning engineered another, and this time decisive, break in the ninth game. ALSO READ | Media rights deal for Indian cricket for 2023-2027 cycle could be completed by July, hints Jay Shah "It wasn't easy for sure, it's always tough to play Daniil. It was actually my first time playing against him in a real match, but we've practised tonnes of times. I have huge respect for everything he's done. The last week it was not easy to stop him but I'm happy I managed to do it," said Rune, who has risen two spots to No. 7 in the Pepperstone ATP Live Rankings as a result of his Monte-Carlo run. "It's just really staying in the moment. His serve is huge, he can hit every target, it's very effortless I would say. He can just toss the ball and goes full. When it's in and on the line, there's nothing to do, you just have to accept it and try to see every chance you can get and take it," Rune said. 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.

Monte Carlo Masters: Taylor Fritz outclasses defending champion Stefanos Tsitsipas to reach into last four

World number one Carlos Alcaraz charged into the quarter-finals of the ATP Miami Open with a convincing 6-3, 6-3 victory over Tommy Paul on Tuesday but second seed Stefanos Tsitsipas was knocked out by Russian Karen Khachanov.

Alcaraz, the defending Miami champion and also the winner at Indian Wells earlier this month, will face another American in the last eight when he comes up against Taylor Fritz.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ioc-backs-russian-belarusian-athletes-return-as-neutral-entries-to-events-no-decision-on-paris-olympics-576800">IOC backs Russian, Belarusian athletes return as 'neutral' entries to events; no decision on Paris Olympics</a>

Paul came into the match having won his last 12 encounters with Spanish players, including wins over Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal last year, but he was unable to get a foothold in the contest.

It was the ninth straight victory for the 19-year-old Spaniard, who delighted a supportive South Florida crowd with his powerful strokes from the baseline and readiness to move forward, once again making use of his increasingly effective drop shot.

"I moved well and defended well and I counter-attacked and I think if I play at that same level I will have a lot of chances to get through," said Alcaraz.

"I feel at home here. It is easy to play here in Miami with all the energy I receive every day."

Tsitsipas had to wait a week for his first contest in Miami, beating Chilean Cristian Garin on Monday, but he came unstuck against Khachanov, losing 7-6 (7/4), 6-4.

The Greek has been troubled by a shoulder injury in recent weeks

In a clash of top-10 players, American Fritz defeated Denmark's Holger Rune&nbsp;6-3, 6-4 to reach to the last eight in Miami for the first time in his career.

Fritz, who won at Delray Beach last month, beat Emilio Nava&nbsp;and Denis Shapovalov in straight sets before Tuesday's encounter and he was pleased with the way he was able to go on the attack.

"I couldn't play aggressively in my first two matches because my opponents were hitting every ball as hard as they could. (Rune) still crushes the ball but it was nice to feel I had some more time," Fritz said.&nbsp;

"The first two rounds, it was impossible to play my game, I just had to make balls. Today when I got the chance to be aggressive I was and I just wanted to serve well and try not to give him many free points."

Italian Jannick Sinner&nbsp;also advanced to the last eight without dropping a set and he was in firm control from the outset against Russian sixth seed Andrey Rublev, winning&nbsp;6-2, 6-4.

Sinner, who has never failed to reach the quarters in his three appearances in Miami, will face Finland's Emil Ruusuvuori&nbsp;after he beat Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp 4-6, 6-4, 7-5.

Ruusuvuori was facing an exit after trailed by a break in the second set but from 4-3 down he won three straight games.

In the final set, the Finn grabbed the decisive break when 6-5 up in the third set to reach the last eight for the first time in this event.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

World number one Carlos Alcaraz charged into the quarter-finals of the ATP Miami Open with a convincing 6-3, 6-3 victory over Tommy Paul on Tuesday but second seed Stefanos Tsitsipas was knocked out by Russian Karen Khachanov.

World number one Carlos Alcaraz charged into the quarter-finals of the ATP Miami Open with a convincing 6-3, 6-3 victory over Tommy Paul on Tuesday but second seed Stefanos Tsitsipas was knocked out by Russian Karen Khachanov. Alcaraz, the defending Miami champion and also the winner at Indian Wells earlier this month, will face another American in the last eight when he comes up against Taylor Fritz. Also Read: IOC backs Russian, Belarusian athletes return as 'neutral' entries to events; no decision on Paris Olympics Paul came into the match having won his last 12 encounters with Spanish players, including wins over Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal last year, but he was unable to get a foothold in the contest. It was the ninth straight victory for the 19-year-old Spaniard, who delighted a supportive South Florida crowd with his powerful strokes from the baseline and readiness to move forward, once again making use of his increasingly effective drop shot. "I moved well and defended well and I counter-attacked and I think if I play at that same level I will have a lot of chances to get through," said Alcaraz. "I feel at home here. It is easy to play here in Miami with all the energy I receive every day." Tsitsipas had to wait a week for his first contest in Miami, beating Chilean Cristian Garin on Monday, but he came unstuck against Khachanov, losing 7-6 (7/4), 6-4. The Greek has been troubled by a shoulder injury in recent weeks In a clash of top-10 players, American Fritz defeated Denmark's Holger Rune 6-3, 6-4 to reach to the last eight in Miami for the first time in his career. Fritz, who won at Delray Beach last month, beat Emilio Nava and Denis Shapovalov in straight sets before Tuesday's encounter and he was pleased with the way he was able to go on the attack. "I couldn't play aggressively in my first two matches because my opponents were hitting every ball as hard as they could. (Rune) still crushes the ball but it was nice to feel I had some more time," Fritz said. "The first two rounds, it was impossible to play my game, I just had to make balls. Today when I got the chance to be aggressive I was and I just wanted to serve well and try not to give him many free points." Italian Jannick Sinner also advanced to the last eight without dropping a set and he was in firm control from the outset against Russian sixth seed Andrey Rublev, winning 6-2, 6-4. Sinner, who has never failed to reach the quarters in his three appearances in Miami, will face Finland's Emil Ruusuvuori after he beat Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp 4-6, 6-4, 7-5. Ruusuvuori was facing an exit after trailed by a break in the second set but from 4-3 down he won three straight games. In the final set, the Finn grabbed the decisive break when 6-5 up in the third set to reach the last eight for the first time in this event. 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.

Miami Open: Carlos Alcaraz enters quarter-finals, Tsitsipas crashes out

World number three Stefanos Tsitsipas&nbsp;finally got his Miami Open campaign under way on Monday with a 6-3, 4-6, 6-4 win over Cristian Garin while Argentine Francisco Cerendulo upset fifth-seeded Felix Auger-Aliassime.

There were no shortage of upsets at Hard Rock Stadium with 12th seeded American Francis Tiafoe beaten by 59th ranked Italian Lorenzo Sonego in straight sets.

France's Adrian Mannarino beat seventh-seeded Pole Hubert Hurkacz and American qualifier Christopher Eubanks defeated Gregoire Barrere in straight sets.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-to-pay-clubs-whopping-355-million-for-sending-players-to-2026-2030-world-cups-576355">FIFA to pay clubs whopping $355 million for sending players to 2026, 2030 World Cups</a>

Tsitsipas arrived in Miami a week ago, had a first round bye and then had a walkover win in the second round when Richard Gasquet pulled out with injury.

"It has almost felt like a vacation this past week, staying in Miami. I glad I got started. It was a difficult match against an opponent who has played good tennis against good opponents in the past," said the Greek.

Tsitsipas has not be on court much in recent weeks. He withdrew from Acapulco due to a shoulder injury and was beaten in his opening match at Indian Wells this month.

The rest has, however, helped Tsitsipas to recover a little from his injury and although he was not at his sharpest, he did enough to book his place in the fourth round against Karen Khachanov.

Tsitsipas broke at 4-4 in the third set to make sure of his progress against the Chilean, who enjoyed plenty of support from the South Florida crowd.

Khachanov defeated Czech&nbsp;Jiri Lehecka&nbsp;6-2, 6-4 to reach the Miami last 16 for the first time.

Cerundolo was knocked out of Indian Wells in straight sets by Canadian Auger-Aliassime two weeks ago, but it was a very different game on the faster courts in South Florida.

The 25th-seeded Argentine was on top from the outset, taking the first set 6-2 and he kept his nerve to triumph 7-5 in the second.

Miami is a happy hunting ground for Cerundolo, who made a surprise run to the semi-finals last year, and he relished the vocal support from his fans in the crowd.

"That was another important win for me, I think I played really good from beginning to end," he said.

"It is super nice to play here, a lot of Argentinians, a lot of people, so I really enjoyed it. Last year was amazing, so I'm really excited to be in the round of 16 again and to try to keep winning," he added.

Exciting American Tiafoe was tipped by many observers to go deep in the tournament but he fell 6-3, 6-4 to Sonego in a game disrupted by a second set rain delay of over an hour.

Mannarino, playing inventive tennis, beat Hurkacz 7-6 (7/5) 7-6 (7/0) but will face a tricky test against the 26-year-old &nbsp;Eubanks who will break into the top 100 for the first time in his career thanks to his victory over 65th ranked Barrere, who had beaten Britain's Cam Norrie in the previous round.

<h2>Confident Halys</h2>

Eubanks trailed 6-2 in a second-set tie-break before a rain delay of more than an hour and he won seven of the next eight points for an emotional 6-3, 7-6 (9/7) victory.

French qualifier Quentin Halys hit 15 aces as he beat American Mackenzie McDonald 7-6 (7/2), 6-3 to set up a fourth round clash with world number five Daniil Medvedev.

Halys had never won a match at ATP 1000 level prior to this tournament but has beaten Spain's Pedro Martinez and Australian Alex de Minaur before taking out McDonald.

"I think I'm just the same player, I am just more confident, I know exactly what I have to do on court and I am very confident in my serve," Halys told AFP.

The 26-year-old said he has sharpened his mental approach to the game, handling better the disappointment of missing out on break opportunities against McDonald in the second set.

"I was still very focused, very positive after those games. Maybe in the past I was negative with myself and I am more positive now, maybe that is the key," said Halys who is ranked 79th in the world.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

World number three Stefanos Tsitsipas finally got his Miami Open campaign under way on Monday with a 6-3, 4-6, 6-4 win over Cristian Garin while Argentine Francisco Cerendulo upset fifth-seeded Felix Auger-Aliassime.

World number three Stefanos Tsitsipas finally got his Miami Open campaign under way on Monday with a 6-3, 4-6, 6-4 win over Cristian Garin while Argentine Francisco Cerendulo upset fifth-seeded Felix Auger-Aliassime. There were no shortage of upsets at Hard Rock Stadium with 12th seeded American Francis Tiafoe beaten by 59th ranked Italian Lorenzo Sonego in straight sets. France's Adrian Mannarino beat seventh-seeded Pole Hubert Hurkacz and American qualifier Christopher Eubanks defeated Gregoire Barrere in straight sets. Also Read: FIFA to pay clubs whopping $355 million for sending players to 2026, 2030 World Cups Tsitsipas arrived in Miami a week ago, had a first round bye and then had a walkover win in the second round when Richard Gasquet pulled out with injury. "It has almost felt like a vacation this past week, staying in Miami. I glad I got started. It was a difficult match against an opponent who has played good tennis against good opponents in the past," said the Greek. Tsitsipas has not be on court much in recent weeks. He withdrew from Acapulco due to a shoulder injury and was beaten in his opening match at Indian Wells this month. The rest has, however, helped Tsitsipas to recover a little from his injury and although he was not at his sharpest, he did enough to book his place in the fourth round against Karen Khachanov. Tsitsipas broke at 4-4 in the third set to make sure of his progress against the Chilean, who enjoyed plenty of support from the South Florida crowd. Khachanov defeated Czech Jiri Lehecka 6-2, 6-4 to reach the Miami last 16 for the first time. Cerundolo was knocked out of Indian Wells in straight sets by Canadian Auger-Aliassime two weeks ago, but it was a very different game on the faster courts in South Florida. The 25th-seeded Argentine was on top from the outset, taking the first set 6-2 and he kept his nerve to triumph 7-5 in the second. Miami is a happy hunting ground for Cerundolo, who made a surprise run to the semi-finals last year, and he relished the vocal support from his fans in the crowd. "That was another important win for me, I think I played really good from beginning to end," he said. "It is super nice to play here, a lot of Argentinians, a lot of people, so I really enjoyed it. Last year was amazing, so I'm really excited to be in the round of 16 again and to try to keep winning," he added. Exciting American Tiafoe was tipped by many observers to go deep in the tournament but he fell 6-3, 6-4 to Sonego in a game disrupted by a second set rain delay of over an hour. Mannarino, playing inventive tennis, beat Hurkacz 7-6 (7/5) 7-6 (7/0) but will face a tricky test against the 26-year-old Eubanks who will break into the top 100 for the first time in his career thanks to his victory over 65th ranked Barrere, who had beaten Britain's Cam Norrie in the previous round. Confident Halys Eubanks trailed 6-2 in a second-set tie-break before a rain delay of more than an hour and he won seven of the next eight points for an emotional 6-3, 7-6 (9/7) victory. French qualifier Quentin Halys hit 15 aces as he beat American Mackenzie McDonald 7-6 (7/2), 6-3 to set up a fourth round clash with world number five Daniil Medvedev. Halys had never won a match at ATP 1000 level prior to this tournament but has beaten Spain's Pedro Martinez and Australian Alex de Minaur before taking out McDonald. "I think I'm just the same player, I am just more confident, I know exactly what I have to do on court and I am very confident in my serve," Halys told AFP. The 26-year-old said he has sharpened his mental approach to the game, handling better the disappointment of missing out on break opportunities against McDonald in the second set. "I was still very focused, very positive after those games. Maybe in the past I was negative with myself and I am more positive now, maybe that is the key," said Halys who is ranked 79th in the world. 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: Stefanos Tsitsipas finally gets Miami Open campaign underway with win

Jannik Sinner stunned top seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets to reach the Rotterdam ATP quarter-finals on Thursday while ninth-ranked Holger Rune was knocked out by world number 160 Gijs Brouwer.

Italian 21-year-old Sinner, ranked 14 in the world and fresh from his Montpellier title last weekend, came through 6-4, 6-3.

It was only his second win over world number three Tsitsipas in seven meetings and avenged a five-set loss to the Greek player in the last-16 at the Australian Open last month.&nbsp;

Sinner will face Swiss veteran and three-time major winner Stan Wawrinka for a place in the semi-finals.

Highly-regarded 19-year-old Rune was trailing American-born Dutchman Brouwer 6-4, 4-0 when he quit their second-round tie.

Rune retired after a medical timeout failed to fix his physical problems.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-wins-his-10th-australian-open-title-beats-stefanos-tsitsipas-in-the-final-in-straight-sets-557024">Read more:&nbsp;Novak Djokovic wins his 10th Australian Open title, beats Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets</a>

Brouwer will face compatriot Tallon Griekspoor in Friday's quarter-finals.

Defending champion Felix Auger-Aliassime of Canada eased past Gregoire Barrere to reach the last eight.

The 22-year-old from Montreal dispatched the last French player standing 6-4, 6-3 to set up a meeting with sixth seed Daniil

Medvedev, who beat Botic van de Zandschulp 6-2, 6-2, saving all six break points he faced.

Number three seed Auger-Aliassime secured his place in the last eight on the back of a solid first service, firing nine aces.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/novak-djokovic-wins-10th-australian-open-title-beats-tsitispas-557060">WATCH |&nbsp;Novak Djokovic wins 10th Australian Open Title, beats Tsitispas</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/novak-djokovic-wins-10th-australian-open-title-beats-tsitispas-557060/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Medvedev will be the favourite to win their encounter having won all of his four meetings with the Canadian, with all but one going the distance.&nbsp;

"Felix is a top player. He won here last year and played amazing at the end of last year. Looking forward to a tough match and hopefully I can be at my best," said Medvedev.

Australia's Alex de Minaur, who upset second seed Andrey Rublev in straight sets on Wednesday, plays Grigor Dimitrov in Friday's other quarter-final.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Jannik Sinner stunned top seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets to reach the Rotterdam ATP quarter-finals on Thursday while ninth-ranked Holger Rune was knocked out by world number 160 Gijs Brouwer.

Jannik Sinner stunned top seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets to reach the Rotterdam ATP quarter-finals on Thursday while ninth-ranked Holger Rune was knocked out by world number 160 Gijs Brouwer. Italian 21-year-old Sinner, ranked 14 in the world and fresh from his Montpellier title last weekend, came through 6-4, 6-3. It was only his second win over world number three Tsitsipas in seven meetings and avenged a five-set loss to the Greek player in the last-16 at the Australian Open last month. Sinner will face Swiss veteran and three-time major winner Stan Wawrinka for a place in the semi-finals. Highly-regarded 19-year-old Rune was trailing American-born Dutchman Brouwer 6-4, 4-0 when he quit their second-round tie. Rune retired after a medical timeout failed to fix his physical problems. Read more: Novak Djokovic wins his 10th Australian Open title, beats Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets Brouwer will face compatriot Tallon Griekspoor in Friday's quarter-finals. Defending champion Felix Auger-Aliassime of Canada eased past Gregoire Barrere to reach the last eight. The 22-year-old from Montreal dispatched the last French player standing 6-4, 6-3 to set up a meeting with sixth seed Daniil Medvedev, who beat Botic van de Zandschulp 6-2, 6-2, saving all six break points he faced. Number three seed Auger-Aliassime secured his place in the last eight on the back of a solid first service, firing nine aces. WATCH | Novak Djokovic wins 10th Australian Open Title, beats Tsitispas × Medvedev will be the favourite to win their encounter having won all of his four meetings with the Canadian, with all but one going the distance. "Felix is a top player. He won here last year and played amazing at the end of last year. Looking forward to a tough match and hopefully I can be at my best," said Medvedev. Australia's Alex de Minaur, who upset second seed Andrey Rublev in straight sets on Wednesday, plays Grigor Dimitrov in Friday's other quarter-final. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Australian Open finalist Tsitsipas handed shocking loss by world number 160

Novak Djokovic won his tenth Australian Open title - his 22nd Grand Slam crown&nbsp;overall - on Sunday by beating&nbsp;Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets (6-3, 7-6, 7-6) in the final at the Rod Laver arena in Melbourne. Heading into the match with a 10-2 head-to-head record, Novak was the favourite to walk out as the winner, and not to everyone's surprise, he did the same.

The Serbian was on top of his game against the 24-year-old, who surprised everyone, including Novak with his beautiful backhand shots throughout the match. However, with this win, Novak has&nbsp;maintained his unbeaten winning streak in AO finals.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/marcus-rashford-seethes-at-var-after-being-denied-the-chance-to-break-this-record-557020">Marcus Rashford seethes at VAR after being denied the chance to break THIS record</a>

Taking an early lead in the first set, set the tone for Djokovic moving ahead. Though&nbsp;Tsitsipas did have his moments, he couldn't avoid suffering a first-set loss at the hands of the nine-time champion, going down 3-6.&nbsp;Tsitsipas then came back stronger in the second set and kept winning his serves. Not only this, he also came from behind to tie the set at&nbsp;6-6 before Novak won the second set with seven points in comparison to&nbsp;Tsitsipas' four.

The third set, that also turned out to be the last, had its share of drama as&nbsp;Tsitsipas tried pulling the match in his favour but couldn't as the Serbian force in Djokovic wasn't ready to let go of his chance of making a statement in the tournament - where got banned from participating last year due to vaccine issues.

With superb back-and-forth during&nbsp;the match, it again reached the tie-breaker where Novak took a 5-0 lead in no time. Though the Greek player scored some points for himself, he eventually fell short as the now 22-time Grand Slam winner won the tiebreaker by 7-5.

This win made not only made Novak the number one player but also helped him go equal with legend Rafael Nadal's with 22 Grand Slams.

Novak Djokovic won his tenth Australian Open title - his 22nd Grand Slam crown overall - on Sunday by beating Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets (6-3, 7-6, 7-6) in the final at the Rod Laver arena in Melbourne.

Novak Djokovic won his tenth Australian Open title - his 22nd Grand Slam crown overall - on Sunday by beating Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets (6-3, 7-6, 7-6) in the final at the Rod Laver arena in Melbourne. Heading into the match with a 10-2 head-to-head record, Novak was the favourite to walk out as the winner, and not to everyone's surprise, he did the same. The Serbian was on top of his game against the 24-year-old, who surprised everyone, including Novak with his beautiful backhand shots throughout the match. However, with this win, Novak has maintained his unbeaten winning streak in AO finals. ALSO READ: Marcus Rashford seethes at VAR after being denied the chance to break THIS record Taking an early lead in the first set, set the tone for Djokovic moving ahead. Though Tsitsipas did have his moments, he couldn't avoid suffering a first-set loss at the hands of the nine-time champion, going down 3-6. Tsitsipas then came back stronger in the second set and kept winning his serves. Not only this, he also came from behind to tie the set at 6-6 before Novak won the second set with seven points in comparison to Tsitsipas' four. The third set, that also turned out to be the last, had its share of drama as Tsitsipas tried pulling the match in his favour but couldn't as the Serbian force in Djokovic wasn't ready to let go of his chance of making a statement in the tournament - where got banned from participating last year due to vaccine issues. With superb back-and-forth during the match, it again reached the tie-breaker where Novak took a 5-0 lead in no time. Though the Greek player scored some points for himself, he eventually fell short as the now 22-time Grand Slam winner won the tiebreaker by 7-5. This win made not only made Novak the number one player but also helped him go equal with legend Rafael Nadal's with 22 Grand Slams.

Novak Djokovic wins his 10th Australian Open title, beats Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets

Amid all the controversy surrounding Novak Djokovic and his father, veteran tennis star Boris Becker remains super excited for the men’s summit clash at the Australian Open between the Serbian Djokovic and Tsitsipas, slated to take place at the Rod Laver arena in Melbourne on Sunday, January 29th. Novak, who is chasing his record tenth Australian Open crown that will help me go equal with Rafael Nadal’s tally of 22 Grand Slam titles, will have everyone’s eyes on him. Being an admirer of Novak, Becker said people should feel lucky about watching him play as there is a chance that a player like him may never come again.

"I don't know if a tennis player can achieve something like that again,” said Becker.

The former six-time Grand Slam winner Becker opined that while it might look normal for many to see a player like Novak achieve so much every now and then, it surely isn’t.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympic-great-usain-bolt-admits-trying-to-recover-lost-money-was-a-stressful-situation-556786">Olympic great Usain Bolt admits trying to recover lost money was a 'stressful situation'</a>

"We are watching tennis history live here. We all take it for granted: The Djoker, he will do it. No, guys, that's not normal,” Becker added while speaking with Eurosport.

Taking a note of Djokovic’s reflexes given his age, Becker said he has seen Novak grasping for breath during the matches. Adding it is important for everyone to enjoy watching him play as no one knows by when we will he hang his boots.

"Novak is getting older, too. He is now 35 years old. You could also notice on the court that he was catching his breath a bit more than usual. Let us enjoy it while we can see it because at some point it will be over,” said Becker.

As Tsitsipas had earlier called this match as culmination of the fulfilment of his childhood dream, taking on the world number one in a Grand Slam final would be a winner for tennis too, feels Becker.

"This is a dream final! When it is also about the world No. 1 ranking in a Grand Slam final, it fulfils childhood dreams. Tsitsipas has already said that. Sure, Djokovic has already been world No. 1, but he is looking at a 22nd Grand Slam singles title. He can equal Rafael Nadal's record. So either way, tennis history will be made,” the German added.

Amid all the controversy surrounding Novak Djokovic and his father, veteran tennis star Boris Becker remains super excited for the men’s summit clash at the Australian Open between the Serbian Djokovic and Tsitsipas, slated to take place at the Rod Laver arena in Melbourne on Sunday, January 29th.

Amid all the controversy surrounding Novak Djokovic and his father, veteran tennis star Boris Becker remains super excited for the men’s summit clash at the Australian Open between the Serbian Djokovic and Tsitsipas, slated to take place at the Rod Laver arena in Melbourne on Sunday, January 29th. Novak, who is chasing his record tenth Australian Open crown that will help me go equal with Rafael Nadal’s tally of 22 Grand Slam titles, will have everyone’s eyes on him. Being an admirer of Novak, Becker said people should feel lucky about watching him play as there is a chance that a player like him may never come again. "I don't know if a tennis player can achieve something like that again,” said Becker. The former six-time Grand Slam winner Becker opined that while it might look normal for many to see a player like Novak achieve so much every now and then, it surely isn’t. ALSO READ: Olympic great Usain Bolt admits trying to recover lost money was a 'stressful situation' "We are watching tennis history live here. We all take it for granted: The Djoker, he will do it. No, guys, that's not normal,” Becker added while speaking with Eurosport. Taking a note of Djokovic’s reflexes given his age, Becker said he has seen Novak grasping for breath during the matches. Adding it is important for everyone to enjoy watching him play as no one knows by when we will he hang his boots. "Novak is getting older, too. He is now 35 years old. You could also notice on the court that he was catching his breath a bit more than usual. Let us enjoy it while we can see it because at some point it will be over,” said Becker. As Tsitsipas had earlier called this match as culmination of the fulfilment of his childhood dream, taking on the world number one in a Grand Slam final would be a winner for tennis too, feels Becker. "This is a dream final! When it is also about the world No. 1 ranking in a Grand Slam final, it fulfils childhood dreams. Tsitsipas has already said that. Sure, Djokovic has already been world No. 1, but he is looking at a 22nd Grand Slam singles title. He can equal Rafael Nadal's record. So either way, tennis history will be made,” the German added.

Novak Djokovic vs Stefanos Tsitsipas is a dream final, veteran Boris Becker on Australian Open summit clash

A rampant Novak Djokovic surged into a 10th Australian Open final Friday to close in on a record-equalling 22nd Grand Slam crown, with only Stefanos Tsitsipas now standing in his way. The Serbian fourth seed overcame an early wobble to romp past unseeded American Tommy Paul 7-5, 6-1, 6-2 on Rod Laver Arena in style. Another title on Sunday will move him alongside Rafael Nadal with 22 Slam wins and see the 35-year-old return to world number one for the first time since last June.

Greek third seed Tsitsipas, who ground past Russian 18th seed Karen Khachanov 7-6 (7/2), 6-4, 6-7 (6/8), 6-3 in the other semi-final, can also become the top-ranked player should he lift the trophy.

Djokovic played the clash without his father, Srdjan courtside after he was filmed posing with a man holding a Russian flag featuring Vladimir Putin's face following his son's quarter-final win on Wednesday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovics-father-to-watch-sons-australian-open-semis-match-from-home-amid-flag-controversy-556506">Novak Djokovic's father to watch son's Australian Open semis match from home amid flag controversy</a>

The incident sparked a backlash from Ukraine and led to calls for Djokovic's father to be banned from the tournament. Srdjan issued a statement ahead of the semi-final saying he would stay away, insisting he "wishes only for peace" and never wanted to cause "disruption".

There was an empty seat next to his mother Dijana during the match.

"I'm really thankful that I have enough gas in my legs to be able to play at this level on one of the biggest tennis courts in the world," said Djokovic, who is now 11-0 for the season and into a 33rd Grand Slam final. "Of course, I'm not as fresh as the beginning of the tournament but we put in a lot of hours in the off-season on fitness in order to be in a good condition to play best of five (sets).

"I know what's expected of me, I've been in this situation so many times in my career. Experience helps also," he added of being in another final.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The win extended his unbeaten streak at the Australian Open to 27 matches to claim sole ownership of the Open-era record at Melbourne Park ahead of Andre Agassi.

Djokovic had never played Paul before and said he was wary of a "very explosive, very dynamic player", with the American initially refusing to go quietly.

A rampant Novak Djokovic surged into a 10th Australian Open final Friday to close in on a record-equalling 22nd Grand Slam crown, with only Stefanos Tsitsipas now standing in his way.

A rampant Novak Djokovic surged into a 10th Australian Open final Friday to close in on a record-equalling 22nd Grand Slam crown, with only Stefanos Tsitsipas now standing in his way. The Serbian fourth seed overcame an early wobble to romp past unseeded American Tommy Paul 7-5, 6-1, 6-2 on Rod Laver Arena in style. Another title on Sunday will move him alongside Rafael Nadal with 22 Slam wins and see the 35-year-old return to world number one for the first time since last June. Greek third seed Tsitsipas, who ground past Russian 18th seed Karen Khachanov 7-6 (7/2), 6-4, 6-7 (6/8), 6-3 in the other semi-final, can also become the top-ranked player should he lift the trophy. Djokovic played the clash without his father, Srdjan courtside after he was filmed posing with a man holding a Russian flag featuring Vladimir Putin's face following his son's quarter-final win on Wednesday. ALSO READ: Novak Djokovic's father to watch son's Australian Open semis match from home amid flag controversy The incident sparked a backlash from Ukraine and led to calls for Djokovic's father to be banned from the tournament. Srdjan issued a statement ahead of the semi-final saying he would stay away, insisting he "wishes only for peace" and never wanted to cause "disruption". There was an empty seat next to his mother Dijana during the match. "I'm really thankful that I have enough gas in my legs to be able to play at this level on one of the biggest tennis courts in the world," said Djokovic, who is now 11-0 for the season and into a 33rd Grand Slam final. "Of course, I'm not as fresh as the beginning of the tournament but we put in a lot of hours in the off-season on fitness in order to be in a good condition to play best of five (sets). "I know what's expected of me, I've been in this situation so many times in my career. Experience helps also," he added of being in another final. The win extended his unbeaten streak at the Australian Open to 27 matches to claim sole ownership of the Open-era record at Melbourne Park ahead of Andre Agassi. Djokovic had never played Paul before and said he was wary of a "very explosive, very dynamic player", with the American initially refusing to go quietly.

Novak Djokovic reaches 10th Australian Open final, to face Stefanos Tsitsipas in summit clash

Stefanos Tsitsipas won an Australian Open semi-final on his fourth attempt on Friday, battling into the decider at Melbourne Park with a gritty victory over Russian 18th-seed Karen Khachanov. The Greek third seed triumphed 7-6 (7/2), 6-4, 6-7 (6/8), 6-3 under the hot sun on Rod Laver Arena to set up a final against either nine-time champion Novak Djokovic or American Tommy Paul. At 24, he is the youngest man to reach the final since 23-year-old Djokovic in 2011. If either he or the Serbian great lift the trophy, they will become world number one.

"I dreamed as a kid to maybe one day get to play in this court against the best players in the world," said Tsitsipas, who is now 10-0 for the season and on the brink of a first Grand Slam crown. "So I'm happy with the fight I put out there today. I feel blessed, blessed that I'm able to play tennis at this level. I've been wanting for many years now to put Greek tennis on the map. I'm extremely happy that I'm in the final now and let's see what happens," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sania-mirza-a-trailblazer-gets-an-almost-fitting-farewell-at-her-last-grand-slam-in-2023-australian-open-556444">Sania Mirza, a trailblazer, gets an almost fitting farewell at her last Grand Slam in 2023 Australian Open</a>

Tsitsipas has thrived in Melbourne throughout his career after bursting on the scene at the 2019 event as a 20-year-old when he dethroned defending champion Roger Federer in the last 16. He went on to reach the semi-finals that year and again in 2021 and 2022 -- falling one match short on each occasion -- to highlight the consistency that has made him a mainstay of the world's top 10 for nearly four years.

But a Grand Slam crown remains elusive, with his runner-up showing at Roland Garros in 2021 his best result so far, falling to Djokovic in five sets after holding a 2-0 lead.

Tsitsipas came into the Khachanov clash brimming with confidence, further fuelled by enjoying a 5-0 record over the Russian. He opened with a serve to love and applied early pressure, earning a break in game four when Khachanov made a baseline error. But the advantage didn't last with the 18th seed immediately striking back to level it up when Tsitsipas netted a forehand.

The Greek star, though, was unrelenting on the forehand and forced another break for a 5-3 lead, only for Khachanov to again roar back. It went to a tiebreak with Tsitsipas quickly taking charge.

Cool Tsitsipas breaks&nbsp;khachanov's wall

Khachanov repelled three break points early in a second set which went with serve until Tsitsipas earned another two after a 22-shot rally at 4-4, and this time he made no mistake. With the bit between his teeth, the third seed ramped up the pressure to secure a break for 2-1 in the third set and then consolidated.

Khachanov looked down and out but in a late twist broke back when Tsitsipas -- two points from victory -- sent an overhead volley wide as he served for the match. It propelled the third set to another tiebreak, where the Greek worked two match points on serve, but failed to convert and the Russian pulled through to take drag it to a fourth.

Tsitsipas, whose mantra in Melbourne has been to focus on the positives not the negatives, kept his cool and plugged away to break again for 2-0, and this time there was no comeback.

Stefanos Tsitsipas won an Australian Open semi-final on his fourth attempt on Friday, battling into the decider at Melbourne Park with a gritty victory over Russian 18th-seed Karen Khachanov.

Stefanos Tsitsipas won an Australian Open semi-final on his fourth attempt on Friday, battling into the decider at Melbourne Park with a gritty victory over Russian 18th-seed Karen Khachanov. The Greek third seed triumphed 7-6 (7/2), 6-4, 6-7 (6/8), 6-3 under the hot sun on Rod Laver Arena to set up a final against either nine-time champion Novak Djokovic or American Tommy Paul. At 24, he is the youngest man to reach the final since 23-year-old Djokovic in 2011. If either he or the Serbian great lift the trophy, they will become world number one. "I dreamed as a kid to maybe one day get to play in this court against the best players in the world," said Tsitsipas, who is now 10-0 for the season and on the brink of a first Grand Slam crown. "So I'm happy with the fight I put out there today. I feel blessed, blessed that I'm able to play tennis at this level. I've been wanting for many years now to put Greek tennis on the map. I'm extremely happy that I'm in the final now and let's see what happens," he added. ALSO READ: Sania Mirza, a trailblazer, gets an almost fitting farewell at her last Grand Slam in 2023 Australian Open Tsitsipas has thrived in Melbourne throughout his career after bursting on the scene at the 2019 event as a 20-year-old when he dethroned defending champion Roger Federer in the last 16. He went on to reach the semi-finals that year and again in 2021 and 2022 -- falling one match short on each occasion -- to highlight the consistency that has made him a mainstay of the world's top 10 for nearly four years. But a Grand Slam crown remains elusive, with his runner-up showing at Roland Garros in 2021 his best result so far, falling to Djokovic in five sets after holding a 2-0 lead. Tsitsipas came into the Khachanov clash brimming with confidence, further fuelled by enjoying a 5-0 record over the Russian. He opened with a serve to love and applied early pressure, earning a break in game four when Khachanov made a baseline error. But the advantage didn't last with the 18th seed immediately striking back to level it up when Tsitsipas netted a forehand. The Greek star, though, was unrelenting on the forehand and forced another break for a 5-3 lead, only for Khachanov to again roar back. It went to a tiebreak with Tsitsipas quickly taking charge. Cool Tsitsipas breaks khachanov's wall Khachanov repelled three break points early in a second set which went with serve until Tsitsipas earned another two after a 22-shot rally at 4-4, and this time he made no mistake. With the bit between his teeth, the third seed ramped up the pressure to secure a break for 2-1 in the third set and then consolidated. Khachanov looked down and out but in a late twist broke back when Tsitsipas -- two points from victory -- sent an overhead volley wide as he served for the match. It propelled the third set to another tiebreak, where the Greek worked two match points on serve, but failed to convert and the Russian pulled through to take drag it to a fourth. Tsitsipas, whose mantra in Melbourne has been to focus on the positives not the negatives, kept his cool and plugged away to break again for 2-0, and this time there was no comeback.

Stefanos Tsitsipas enters 2023 Australian Open finals, says he used to dream about these moments as kid

Novak Djokovic claimed the 90th title of his career and the fourth of 2022 with a dominant straight-sets victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas in the ATP final in Astana on Sunday.

The 35-year-old Djokovic triumphed 6-3, 6-4 in 75 minutes to add to the trophies he won this season in Israel, Rome and at Wimbledon. It was the ninth consecutive match victory for the fourth seed, who guaranteed himself a spot at the 2022 ATP Finals as a result of the win.

"I dared to dream, actually," Djokovic replied when asked if he had ever imagined he would win 90 titles.&nbsp;

"I always hoped that I would be going to have a great career. Obviously, didn't know the amount of finals I was going to play, the amount of tournaments I was going to win, but my intention was always to reach the highest heights in our sport."

The Serb won in Tel Aviv a week ago, his first singles tournament since wrapping up a seventh Wimbledon crown and 21st Grand Slam title in July. He was banned from the US Open and the entire North American hard court swing over his refusal to be vaccinated before returning for Roger Federer's farewell in the Laver Cup team event in London last month.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serbian-scientists-name-beetle-after-novak-djokovic-523788">Serbian scientists name beetle after country's tennis star Novak Djokovic</a>

His time away had increased his motivation, he agreed. "Well, it did," Djokovic said. "I could not ask for a better re-start of the season. I'm super-pumped and motivated to end the season as well as I have done these past couple of weeks."

For third-seeded Tsitsipas, who had been bidding for a tenth career title, it was a ninth defeat in as many ATP Tour 500-level finals he has played in. Djokovic got off to a flying start, winning the first game at love in a little over one minute.

With Tsitsipas serving at 3-4, Djokovic took the only break point of the first set. Djokovic earned another break in the fifth game of the second set when a Tsitsipas drop shot fell into the net. The Serb converted his third match point with a backhand winner into an open court.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-so-unhappy-he-didnt-score-3-pep-guardiola-reacts-to-erling-haaland-scoring-only-once-vs-southampton-523812">I am so unhappy he didn’t score 3: Pep Guardiola reacts to Erling Haaland scoring only once vs Southampton</a>

"I'm just very grateful and blessed to be able to play this well at this stage of my life," Djokovic added.&nbsp;

"You know, 35 is not 25. But I think the experience, probably, in these kinds of matches and big occasions helps as well to approach mentally in the right way."

Djokovic leads Tsitsipas 8-2 in their meetings and has won the past seven clashes.

Novak Djokovic claimed the 90th title of his career and the fourth of 2022 with a dominant straight-sets victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas in the ATP final in Astana on Sunday.

Novak Djokovic claimed the 90th title of his career and the fourth of 2022 with a dominant straight-sets victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas in the ATP final in Astana on Sunday. The 35-year-old Djokovic triumphed 6-3, 6-4 in 75 minutes to add to the trophies he won this season in Israel, Rome and at Wimbledon. It was the ninth consecutive match victory for the fourth seed, who guaranteed himself a spot at the 2022 ATP Finals as a result of the win. "I dared to dream, actually," Djokovic replied when asked if he had ever imagined he would win 90 titles. "I always hoped that I would be going to have a great career. Obviously, didn't know the amount of finals I was going to play, the amount of tournaments I was going to win, but my intention was always to reach the highest heights in our sport." The Serb won in Tel Aviv a week ago, his first singles tournament since wrapping up a seventh Wimbledon crown and 21st Grand Slam title in July. He was banned from the US Open and the entire North American hard court swing over his refusal to be vaccinated before returning for Roger Federer's farewell in the Laver Cup team event in London last month. Also Read: Serbian scientists name beetle after country's tennis star Novak Djokovic His time away had increased his motivation, he agreed. "Well, it did," Djokovic said. "I could not ask for a better re-start of the season. I'm super-pumped and motivated to end the season as well as I have done these past couple of weeks." For third-seeded Tsitsipas, who had been bidding for a tenth career title, it was a ninth defeat in as many ATP Tour 500-level finals he has played in. Djokovic got off to a flying start, winning the first game at love in a little over one minute. With Tsitsipas serving at 3-4, Djokovic took the only break point of the first set. Djokovic earned another break in the fifth game of the second set when a Tsitsipas drop shot fell into the net. The Serb converted his third match point with a backhand winner into an open court. Also Read: I am so unhappy he didn’t score 3: Pep Guardiola reacts to Erling Haaland scoring only once vs Southampton "I'm just very grateful and blessed to be able to play this well at this stage of my life," Djokovic added. "You know, 35 is not 25. But I think the experience, probably, in these kinds of matches and big occasions helps as well to approach mentally in the right way." Djokovic leads Tsitsipas 8-2 in their meetings and has won the past seven clashes.

Novak Djokovic beats Stefanos Tsitsipas in Astana Open final to bag 90th career title

Novak Djokovic brushed aside Chile's Cristian Garin 6-1, 6-1 in 64 minutes on Wednesday as he breezed into the second round of the Astana Open. Coming off his 89th career title in Tel Aviv last weekend, Djokovic broke an overmatched Garin five times to continue his push for a place in the season-ending ATP Finals.

"From the start to the end, (it was) a great performance," said Djokovic.&nbsp;"Playing in a new tournament, different conditions, the first match is never easy. Obviously you are looking to see how you are going to adapt, but I did it perfectly, really, played as well as I can."

The Serb is the only player to win ATP tournaments on clay, grass and hard courts this year. He will play Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp for a place in the quarter-finals. "Coming into this tournament I feel confident, I feel excited, I feel motivated, so I think that helps as well to adjust quickly," added Djokovic.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/qatar-slashes-office-hours-to-reduce-traffic-jams-for-fifa-world-cup-522808">Qatar slashes office hours to reduce traffic jams for FIFA World Cup</a>

Third seed Stefanos Tsitsipas ended the run of Italian qualifier Luca Nardi, advancing 7-6 (7/2), 7-6 (7/3). He goes on to face Kazakhstan's Alexander Bublik or Hubert Hurkacz. Andrey Rublev, seeded fifth, defeated China's Zhang Zhizhen 6-3, 6-2 in his second round match. Rublev meets Adrian Mannarino next after the Frenchman put out David Goffin, who shocked world number one Carlos Alcaraz in the opening round.

Roberto Bautista Agut beat lucky loser Pavel Kotov 6-1, 7-6 (7/5) and could play Daniil Medvedev in the quarter-finals. Marin Cilic, the runner-up to Djokovic in Tel Aviv, won his opener 5-7, 7-6 (7/4), 6-2 against Germany's Oscar Otte. Switzerland's Marc-Andrea Huesler, who won his first ATP title in Sofia last week, was dumped out by Emil Ruusuvuori 6-0, 6-2.

Novak Djokovic brushed aside Chile's Cristian Garin 6-1, 6-1 in 64 minutes on Wednesday as he breezed into the second round of the Astana Open. Coming off his 89th career title in Tel Aviv last weekend, Djokovic broke an overmatched Garin five times to continue his push for a place in the season-ending ATP Finals.

Novak Djokovic brushed aside Chile's Cristian Garin 6-1, 6-1 in 64 minutes on Wednesday as he breezed into the second round of the Astana Open. Coming off his 89th career title in Tel Aviv last weekend, Djokovic broke an overmatched Garin five times to continue his push for a place in the season-ending ATP Finals. "From the start to the end, (it was) a great performance," said Djokovic. "Playing in a new tournament, different conditions, the first match is never easy. Obviously you are looking to see how you are going to adapt, but I did it perfectly, really, played as well as I can." The Serb is the only player to win ATP tournaments on clay, grass and hard courts this year. He will play Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp for a place in the quarter-finals. "Coming into this tournament I feel confident, I feel excited, I feel motivated, so I think that helps as well to adjust quickly," added Djokovic. ALSO READ | Qatar slashes office hours to reduce traffic jams for FIFA World Cup Third seed Stefanos Tsitsipas ended the run of Italian qualifier Luca Nardi, advancing 7-6 (7/2), 7-6 (7/3). He goes on to face Kazakhstan's Alexander Bublik or Hubert Hurkacz. Andrey Rublev, seeded fifth, defeated China's Zhang Zhizhen 6-3, 6-2 in his second round match. Rublev meets Adrian Mannarino next after the Frenchman put out David Goffin, who shocked world number one Carlos Alcaraz in the opening round. Roberto Bautista Agut beat lucky loser Pavel Kotov 6-1, 7-6 (7/5) and could play Daniil Medvedev in the quarter-finals. Marin Cilic, the runner-up to Djokovic in Tel Aviv, won his opener 5-7, 7-6 (7/4), 6-2 against Germany's Oscar Otte. Switzerland's Marc-Andrea Huesler, who won his first ATP title in Sofia last week, was dumped out by Emil Ruusuvuori 6-0, 6-2.

Novak Djokovic cruises ahead in Astana; Stefanos Tsitsipas and Andrey Rublev enter quarters

Last week, Roger Federer shocked one and all by announcing that he will step aside from tennis post the Laver Cup. The Laver Cup 2022 edition will kick off on September 23 and will be held at the&nbsp;O2 Arena in London till September 25 (Sunday). Hence, many will be glued to their TV sets to see Federer in action for one last time as he is set to bid farewell to the game; bringing an end to his illustrious journey where he won 103 singles titles in a career spanning over 24 years.

The Laver Cup is always a keenly-awaited tournament as it gives fans an opportunity to witness some of the biggest names in men's tennis to play with each other. Team Europe, who have won all the editions so far, will feature the likes of Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Casper Ruud, Stefanos Tsitsipas and Andy Murray as they will take on Team World in the three-day event. Team World, on the other hand, will feature&nbsp;Felix Auger-Aliassime, Frances Tiafoe, Diego Schwartzman, Alex de Minaur, Taylor Fritz and&nbsp;Jack Sock.

When is the Laver Cup?

The Laver Cup will get underway on September 23, Friday and will conclude on September 25 (Sunday).

How does the Laver Cup work?

The showpiece event is comprised of five sessions over the course of three days&nbsp;(Friday – Sunday). Singles and doubles matches are played on each day. The matches that will be played on the opening day will be worth a point. Meanwhile, the fixtures to be held on the second day will be of two points and the final day's ties will comprise of three points. Each player must play at least one singles match in the first two days of the competition. In addition, no player can play singles more than twice.

At least four players from each team must play doubles but no pair can be repeated. The tournament is a best-of-three-sets format, but the third set is a 10-point match tiebreaker if the opening two ends in a 1-1 stalemate. The team reaching to 13 points will be declared the winner whereas a decider will be held in case of a 12-12 scoreline.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-sport-has-given-me-everythig-roger-federer-wants-to-stay-connected-to-tennis-after-retirement-518267">'The sport has given me everything': Roger Federer wants to stay connected to tennis after retirement</a>

What is the schedule of the Laver Cup 2022 edition?

Friday September 23, 2022

1.00pm Day Session

Match 1 – Singles

Match 2 – Singles

7.00pm – Night Session

Match 3 – Singles

Match 4 – Doubles

Saturday September 24, 2022

1.00pm Day Session

Match 5 – Singles

Match 6 – Singles

7.00pm – Night Session

Match 7 – Singles

Match 8 – Doubles

Sunday September 25, 2022

12.00pm – Day Session

Match 9 – Doubles

Match 10 – Singles*

Match 11 – Singles*

Match 12 – Singles*

*if required

(All times BST)

Is the Laver Cup on TV?

The Laver Cup's telecast will be on the Sony Sports Network whereas the live streaming will be available&nbsp;on SonyLIV app and website.

Last week, Roger Federer shocked one and all by announcing that he will step aside from tennis post the Laver Cup. The Laver Cup 2022 edition will kick off on September 23 and will be held at the O2 Arena in London till September 25 (Sunday).

Last week, Roger Federer shocked one and all by announcing that he will step aside from tennis post the Laver Cup. The Laver Cup 2022 edition will kick off on September 23 and will be held at the O2 Arena in London till September 25 (Sunday). Hence, many will be glued to their TV sets to see Federer in action for one last time as he is set to bid farewell to the game; bringing an end to his illustrious journey where he won 103 singles titles in a career spanning over 24 years. The Laver Cup is always a keenly-awaited tournament as it gives fans an opportunity to witness some of the biggest names in men's tennis to play with each other. Team Europe, who have won all the editions so far, will feature the likes of Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Casper Ruud, Stefanos Tsitsipas and Andy Murray as they will take on Team World in the three-day event. Team World, on the other hand, will feature Felix Auger-Aliassime, Frances Tiafoe, Diego Schwartzman, Alex de Minaur, Taylor Fritz and Jack Sock. When is the Laver Cup? The Laver Cup will get underway on September 23, Friday and will conclude on September 25 (Sunday). How does the Laver Cup work? The showpiece event is comprised of five sessions over the course of three days (Friday – Sunday). Singles and doubles matches are played on each day. The matches that will be played on the opening day will be worth a point. Meanwhile, the fixtures to be held on the second day will be of two points and the final day's ties will comprise of three points. Each player must play at least one singles match in the first two days of the competition. In addition, no player can play singles more than twice. At least four players from each team must play doubles but no pair can be repeated. The tournament is a best-of-three-sets format, but the third set is a 10-point match tiebreaker if the opening two ends in a 1-1 stalemate. The team reaching to 13 points will be declared the winner whereas a decider will be held in case of a 12-12 scoreline. ALSO READ | 'The sport has given me everything': Roger Federer wants to stay connected to tennis after retirement What is the schedule of the Laver Cup 2022 edition? Friday September 23, 2022 1.00pm Day Session Match 1 – Singles Match 2 – Singles 7.00pm – Night Session Match 3 – Singles Match 4 – Doubles Saturday September 24, 2022 1.00pm Day Session Match 5 – Singles Match 6 – Singles 7.00pm – Night Session Match 7 – Singles Match 8 – Doubles Sunday September 25, 2022 12.00pm – Day Session Match 9 – Doubles Match 10 – Singles* Match 11 – Singles* Match 12 – Singles* *if required (All times BST) Is the Laver Cup on TV? The Laver Cup's telecast will be on the Sony Sports Network whereas the live streaming will be available on SonyLIV app and website.

EXPLAINED: What is Laver Cup and its format? Everything to know about Roger Federer's farewell event

World No. 7 Stefanos Tsitsipas recently overcame the challenge presented by Daniil Medvedev in the semi-finals of the Cincinnati Open. Tsitsipas advanced to the final stage of the Cincinnati Masters by beating the&nbsp;World No. 1 at Centre Court by&nbsp;7-6 (8-6), 3-6, 6-3.&nbsp;

He admitted that he was forced to play a number of tough shots in order to eventually move past Medvedev. He offered fans some insight into the same while in conversation with the media in the aftermath of their action-packed match.

In addition to an absolutely nail-biting affair between the duo, fans were also offered the opportunity to watch Tsitsipas show off his dancing skills on the court shortly after outplaying Medvedev.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lyudmyla-kichenok-and-jelena-ostapenko-lay-claim-to-womens-doubles-title-at-the-cincinnati-open-508829" hreflang="en">Lyudmyla Kichenok and Jelena Ostapenko lay claim to women's doubles title at the Cincinnati Open</a>

"There were some difficult shots I had to play a bit more. A few short balls I really took advantage of and came in. A lot of courageous serves and volleys, approaches to the net that definitely gave me that great win today,” Tsitsipas admitted.

“I knew I had to sign up for a difficult task, the third set, it wasn’t going to be easy. He made it very physical and really demanding for me. I just took advantage of some of his missed first serves. I think I had a couple opportunities where it seemed to be going towards my side," he said further.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/looking-forward-to-it-emma-raducanu-determined-to-defend-her-miracle-us-open-title-508368" hreflang="en">'Looking forward to it' - Emma Raducanu determined to defend her US Open title</a>

Tsitsipas is currently hurtling towards a clash against&nbsp;Croatia’s Borna Coric, who consolidated his position&nbsp;in the final of the Western and Southern Open by outperforming eighth seed Cameron Norrie of Britain in straight sets&nbsp;at Grandstand.&nbsp;

Should he emerge triumphant at the Cincinnati Masters, Tsiptipas will hope to replicate this success at the forthcoming US Open, which is set to kick off on August 29th.

World No. 7 Stefanos Tsitsipas recently overcame the challenge presented by Daniil Medvedev in the semi-finals of the Cincinnati Open. Tsitsipas advanced to the final stage of the Cincinnati Masters by beating the World No.

World No. 7 Stefanos Tsitsipas recently overcame the challenge presented by Daniil Medvedev in the semi-finals of the Cincinnati Open. Tsitsipas advanced to the final stage of the Cincinnati Masters by beating the World No. 1 at Centre Court by 7-6 (8-6), 3-6, 6-3. He admitted that he was forced to play a number of tough shots in order to eventually move past Medvedev. He offered fans some insight into the same while in conversation with the media in the aftermath of their action-packed match. In addition to an absolutely nail-biting affair between the duo, fans were also offered the opportunity to watch Tsitsipas show off his dancing skills on the court shortly after outplaying Medvedev. ALSO READ: Lyudmyla Kichenok and Jelena Ostapenko lay claim to women's doubles title at the Cincinnati Open "There were some difficult shots I had to play a bit more. A few short balls I really took advantage of and came in. A lot of courageous serves and volleys, approaches to the net that definitely gave me that great win today,” Tsitsipas admitted. “I knew I had to sign up for a difficult task, the third set, it wasn’t going to be easy. He made it very physical and really demanding for me. I just took advantage of some of his missed first serves. I think I had a couple opportunities where it seemed to be going towards my side," he said further. ALSO READ: 'Looking forward to it' - Emma Raducanu determined to defend her US Open title Tsitsipas is currently hurtling towards a clash against Croatia’s Borna Coric, who consolidated his position in the final of the Western and Southern Open by outperforming eighth seed Cameron Norrie of Britain in straight sets at Grandstand. Should he emerge triumphant at the Cincinnati Masters, Tsiptipas will hope to replicate this success at the forthcoming US Open, which is set to kick off on August 29th.

'Made it very physical'- Stefanos Tsitsipas delighted by beating Daniil Medvedev at Cincinnati Open

Daniil Medvedev and Stefanos&nbsp;Tsitsipas advanced to a semi-final showdown after both dismissed&nbsp;American opponents at the ATP and WTA Cincinnati&nbsp;Masters&nbsp;on Friday. Top seed Medvedev fired 18 aces among 30 winners in a 7-6 (7/1), 6-3 defeat of Taylor Fritz in their Friday quarter-final.

Tsitsipas, semi-finalist at the last two editions, weathered a brief first-set rain interruption on the way to his 7-6 (7/5), 5-7, 6-3, defeat of John Isner, playing here for the 15th time at age 37 and the oldest quarter-finalist since 1969.

In the bottom half of the draw, Croat Borna Coric crushed Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-4, 6-4 to set up a semi-final against Britain's Cameron Norrie, who had to work for more than three hours for a 7-6 (7/4), 6-7 (4/7), 6-4 defeat of Spanish teenager Carlos Alcaraz.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aryna-sabalenka-outplays-zhang-shuai-to-make-her-way-into-semi-finals-at-cincinnati-open-508642" hreflang="en">Aryna Sabalenka outplays Zhang Shuai to make her way into semi-finals at Cincinnati Open</a>

The tight battle ended just before midnight as Norrie completed what he called one of his best career wins.&nbsp;He stumbled leading a set and 4-1 as Alcaraz pushed back, winning the second set to level the match.

"I was thinking too much about the finish line," the winner said. "I got tight and he raised his level. I had to take my time or the match could have gotten away from me...I managed to turn it around."

Greek fourth seed Tsitsipas was relieved to have passed his examination by Isner.

"It's never easy to play him, due to all his variations of play," Tsitsipas said. "The most important thing is to stay patient. The match came down to a few points. I was able to hang in there and make one more ball - he didn't give me a lot to work with."&nbsp;

Tsitsipas added: "Against Medvedev, I need to be concentrated and approach my game in a precise manner. "I will let my&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;do the talking."&nbsp;

Medvedev, the 2019 tournament winner, strengthened his grip on the world number one ranking at the last major tune-up prior to the US Open, earning his victory over 11th seed Fritz in one hour,&nbsp;40 minutes.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-no-1-daniil-medvedev-outclasses-denis-shapovalov-to-enter-the-quarter-finals-of-cincinnati-masters-508445" hreflang="en">World No. 1 Daniil Medvedev outclasses Denis Shapovalov to enter the quarter finals of Cincinnati Masters</a>

"The second set was much&nbsp;better than the first," Medvedev said. "Taylor is a great player,&nbsp;from the baseline he didn't&nbsp;give you much space. "He was hitting the ball strong, making a&nbsp;lot of good points. "But I'm&nbsp;happy with my level. If I can continue&nbsp;to play this way and raise my level during matches&nbsp;I can beat anybody," added Medvedev, who leads semi-final opponent Tsitsipas 7-2 in head-to-head meetings.

<h2>- Keys downs Rybakina -</h2>

In the women's quarter-finals, Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina saved three match points before falling 6-2, 6-4 to Madison Keys.&nbsp;The Kazakh, who lifted the All England Club trophy last month against the odds, exited the pre-US Open event in 92 minutes as she went down to the American titleholder from 2019.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Elena is a remarkable player who can turn a match around at any moment," unseeded Keys said. "I needed to stay out front.&nbsp;It felt like I needed 12 match points, so I'm very happy to get the win," added Keys who on Thursday ousted world number one Iga Swiatek.&nbsp;

Keys next plays&nbsp;Petra Kvitova, a two-time Wimbledon champion who defeated Australian qualifier Ajla Tomljanovic 6-2, 6-3.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Second seed Aryna Sabalenka ended the dream run of Zhang Shuai with a 6-4, 7-6 (7/1), defeat after the Chinese player had put out Naomi Osaka and second seed Anett Kontaveit.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/looking-forward-to-it-emma-raducanu-determined-to-defend-her-miracle-us-open-title-508368" hreflang="en">'Looking forward to it' - Emma Raducanu determined to defend her US Open title</a>

Sabalenka plays for the final against qualifier Caroline Garcia, who defeated American Jessica Pegula, the winner over US Open champion Emma Raducanu in the previous round, 6-1, 7-5 in 74 minutes.&nbsp;

The French winner leads the Tour with 25 main-draw victories since June; she was the first from her nation to play a Cincinnati quarter-final since Marion Bartoli 12 years ago.&nbsp;

"I had the worst warmup of the week today," Garcia said. "But that doesn't mean you will play badly. "I was able to play the aggressive style that I like. I hit very freely against a solid opponent. I had to play my best today to beat Jessica. I did it and I'm very happy I got the win."

Daniil Medvedev and Stefanos Tsitsipas advanced to a semi-final showdown after both dismissed American opponents at the ATP and WTA Cincinnati Masters on Friday.

Daniil Medvedev and Stefanos Tsitsipas advanced to a semi-final showdown after both dismissed American opponents at the ATP and WTA Cincinnati Masters on Friday. Top seed Medvedev fired 18 aces among 30 winners in a 7-6 (7/1), 6-3 defeat of Taylor Fritz in their Friday quarter-final. Tsitsipas, semi-finalist at the last two editions, weathered a brief first-set rain interruption on the way to his 7-6 (7/5), 5-7, 6-3, defeat of John Isner, playing here for the 15th time at age 37 and the oldest quarter-finalist since 1969. In the bottom half of the draw, Croat Borna Coric crushed Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-4, 6-4 to set up a semi-final against Britain's Cameron Norrie, who had to work for more than three hours for a 7-6 (7/4), 6-7 (4/7), 6-4 defeat of Spanish teenager Carlos Alcaraz. ALSO READ: Aryna Sabalenka outplays Zhang Shuai to make her way into semi-finals at Cincinnati Open The tight battle ended just before midnight as Norrie completed what he called one of his best career wins. He stumbled leading a set and 4-1 as Alcaraz pushed back, winning the second set to level the match. "I was thinking too much about the finish line," the winner said. "I got tight and he raised his level. I had to take my time or the match could have gotten away from me...I managed to turn it around." Greek fourth seed Tsitsipas was relieved to have passed his examination by Isner. "It's never easy to play him, due to all his variations of play," Tsitsipas said. "The most important thing is to stay patient. The match came down to a few points. I was able to hang in there and make one more ball - he didn't give me a lot to work with." Tsitsipas added: "Against Medvedev, I need to be concentrated and approach my game in a precise manner. "I will let my tennis do the talking." Medvedev, the 2019 tournament winner, strengthened his grip on the world number one ranking at the last major tune-up prior to the US Open, earning his victory over 11th seed Fritz in one hour, 40 minutes. ALSO READ: World No. 1 Daniil Medvedev outclasses Denis Shapovalov to enter the quarter finals of Cincinnati Masters "The second set was much better than the first," Medvedev said. "Taylor is a great player, from the baseline he didn't give you much space. "He was hitting the ball strong, making a lot of good points. "But I'm happy with my level. If I can continue to play this way and raise my level during matches I can beat anybody," added Medvedev, who leads semi-final opponent Tsitsipas 7-2 in head-to-head meetings. - Keys downs Rybakina - In the women's quarter-finals, Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina saved three match points before falling 6-2, 6-4 to Madison Keys. The Kazakh, who lifted the All England Club trophy last month against the odds, exited the pre-US Open event in 92 minutes as she went down to the American titleholder from 2019. "Elena is a remarkable player who can turn a match around at any moment," unseeded Keys said. "I needed to stay out front. It felt like I needed 12 match points, so I'm very happy to get the win," added Keys who on Thursday ousted world number one Iga Swiatek. Keys next plays Petra Kvitova, a two-time Wimbledon champion who defeated Australian qualifier Ajla Tomljanovic 6-2, 6-3. Second seed Aryna Sabalenka ended the dream run of Zhang Shuai with a 6-4, 7-6 (7/1), defeat after the Chinese player had put out Naomi Osaka and second seed Anett Kontaveit. ALSO READ: 'Looking forward to it' - Emma Raducanu determined to defend her US Open title Sabalenka plays for the final against qualifier Caroline Garcia, who defeated American Jessica Pegula, the winner over US Open champion Emma Raducanu in the previous round, 6-1, 7-5 in 74 minutes. The French winner leads the Tour with 25 main-draw victories since June; she was the first from her nation to play a Cincinnati quarter-final since Marion Bartoli 12 years ago. "I had the worst warmup of the week today," Garcia said. "But that doesn't mean you will play badly. "I was able to play the aggressive style that I like. I hit very freely against a solid opponent. I had to play my best today to beat Jessica. I did it and I'm very happy I got the win."

Daniil Medvedev breaks into the final four of Cincinnati Open as Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina tumbles out

Seven-times major champion Mats Wilander said he had never seen anything like the combustible atmosphere during the Wimbledon clash between Nick Kyrgios and Stefanos Tsitsipas and joined calls for umpires to be stricter about players` misbehaviour.

Australian maverick Kyrgios knocked out fourth-seeded Greek Tsitsipas in a ill-tempered but high-quality third-round Court One slugfest on Saturday which often threatened to spiral out of control. Kyrgios was warned for swearing and had a running dialogue with the umpire while Tsitsipas lost his composure and tried to hit his opponent with a smash after coming close to being defaulted for hitting a ball in frustration into the crowd.

"Is it entertaining? Yes. Is it respectful? No," Wilander told Eurosport. "Is the tennis great at times? Unbelievable, because both players are such good players. And Kyrgios is so talented. "I`ve never seen anything like it. I`m not sure I want to see something like that, again, to be honest, because I don`t think this is what we want to promote in tennis. We want to not promote it as entertainment.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ajla-tomljanovic-downs-alize-cornet-in-rollercoaster-outing-to-reach-wimbledon-2022-quarter-finals-494473">Ajla Tomljanovic downs Alize Cornet in rollercoaster outing to reach Wimbledon 2022 quarter-finals</a>

"We want to promote it as inspirational, educational, but this is what people maybe want to see. I`m not sure I`m a big fan of what`s going on to be honest." In April, men`s governing body ATP warned players in an internal note that officials had been directed to take a stricter stance against on-court misconduct while its code of conduct for such violations will also be reviewed.

The 27-year-old Kyrgios has received multiple hefty fines this year and in the past and got a $10,000 one for spitting in the direction of a spectator during his match against British wildcard Paul Jubb. 
A $4,000 fine for Saturday`s abuse was added to Kyrgios`s tally while organisers said on Sunday that Tsitsipas had been fined $10,000 for slamming the tennis ball in anger.

Tsitsipas labelled Kyrgios a "bully" with "an evil side" to his character after their meeting, while the Australian responded by calling the allegations "soft" and adding that the Greek had "serious issues". 
Former French open runner-up Alex Corretja earlier told Eurosport: "The chair umpires need to be stricter. There should be respect between players and (the) chair umpire.

"The umpire needs to say: `I am the boss and you can`t just do and say whatever you like`. We love the match; we love the entertainment but we need to respect also a little bit the conditions."

Seven-times major champion Mats Wilander said he had never seen anything like the combustible atmosphere during the Wimbledon clash between Nick Kyrgios and Stefanos Tsitsipas and joined calls for umpires to be stricter about players` misbehaviour.

Seven-times major champion Mats Wilander said he had never seen anything like the combustible atmosphere during the Wimbledon clash between Nick Kyrgios and Stefanos Tsitsipas and joined calls for umpires to be stricter about players` misbehaviour. Australian maverick Kyrgios knocked out fourth-seeded Greek Tsitsipas in a ill-tempered but high-quality third-round Court One slugfest on Saturday which often threatened to spiral out of control. Kyrgios was warned for swearing and had a running dialogue with the umpire while Tsitsipas lost his composure and tried to hit his opponent with a smash after coming close to being defaulted for hitting a ball in frustration into the crowd. "Is it entertaining? Yes. Is it respectful? No," Wilander told Eurosport. "Is the tennis great at times? Unbelievable, because both players are such good players. And Kyrgios is so talented. "I`ve never seen anything like it. I`m not sure I want to see something like that, again, to be honest, because I don`t think this is what we want to promote in tennis. We want to not promote it as entertainment. ALSO READ | Ajla Tomljanovic downs Alize Cornet in rollercoaster outing to reach Wimbledon 2022 quarter-finals "We want to promote it as inspirational, educational, but this is what people maybe want to see. I`m not sure I`m a big fan of what`s going on to be honest." In April, men`s governing body ATP warned players in an internal note that officials had been directed to take a stricter stance against on-court misconduct while its code of conduct for such violations will also be reviewed. The 27-year-old Kyrgios has received multiple hefty fines this year and in the past and got a $10,000 one for spitting in the direction of a spectator during his match against British wildcard Paul Jubb. A $4,000 fine for Saturday`s abuse was added to Kyrgios`s tally while organisers said on Sunday that Tsitsipas had been fined $10,000 for slamming the tennis ball in anger. Tsitsipas labelled Kyrgios a "bully" with "an evil side" to his character after their meeting, while the Australian responded by calling the allegations "soft" and adding that the Greek had "serious issues". Former French open runner-up Alex Corretja earlier told Eurosport: "The chair umpires need to be stricter. There should be respect between players and (the) chair umpire. "The umpire needs to say: `I am the boss and you can`t just do and say whatever you like`. We love the match; we love the entertainment but we need to respect also a little bit the conditions."

Seven-times major champion Mats Wilander slams toxic atmosphere in Nick Kyrgios- Stefanos Tsitsipas tie

Australian maverick Nick Kyrgios knocked out fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in a wild and wonderful Wimbledon third-round slugfest that threatened to spiral out of control on Saturday. The 27-year-old Kyrgios produced sublime tennis to earn a 6-7(2) 6-4 6-3 7-6(7) victory but the match will be remembered chiefly as one of the most bad-tempered seen at Wimbledon since the days of American bad boy John McEnroe.

The eagerly-awaited Court One clash was the hottest ticket in town, even with Rafa Nadal playing over on Centre Court. It did not disappoint either, with scintillating tennis producing 118 clean winners and mayhem as both players lost their heads and received warnings.

With the lights on and a deafening atmosphere, it was the unseeded Kyrgios who emerged from the chaos with one of his finest Grand Slam victories, edging a nerve-jangling fourth-set tiebreak after saving a set point. Kyrgios claimed victory with a drop shot and he will enter the last 16 for the fourth time, the first since 2016, with serious title aspirations.

Next in his sights is unseeded American Brandon Nakashima. For most of a high-octane first set it was the quality of tennis from both players that held sway. Kyrgios was his usual chuntering self but lost his temper with umpire Damien Dumusois after an overruled line call at 5-5 in the first set as he threatened a service break.

Tsitsipas remained focused to win the tiebreak and had a huge chance to seize control at 4-4 in the second set when Kyrgios let slip a 40-0 lead with two careless drop shots, but saved a break point with a second-serve ace.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/american-teenage-sensation-coco-gauff-bows-out-of-wimbledon-2022-after-defeat-against-amanda-anisimova-493934">Coco Gauff bows out of Wimbledon 2022 after defeat against Amanda Anisimova</a>

<h2>Both players given&nbsp;warnings:</h2>

The fireworks really began in the next game. First Kyrgios was warned for an audible obscenity after being reported by a line judge, then he responded to break the Tsitsipas serve and steal the second set after the Greek failed to put away a smash with the court gaping.

Tsitsipas snapped, whacking a ball that narrowly missed the head of a fan and earning a warning. Kyrgios ranted that Tsitsipas should have been defaulted, called the umpire "a disgrace" and demanded to talk to a supervisor.

"Give me all the supervisors. I`m not playing until we get to the bottom of it," an irate Kyrgios said while Tsitsipas went off for a toilet break. On his return, the Greek booed as he became the unwitting villain in the Kyrgios pantomime.

Also Read:&nbsp; <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-2022-world-no1-iga-swiatek-bows-out-after-being-stunned-by-alize-cornet-in-3rd-round-493977">World no.1 Iga Swiatek bows out of&nbsp;Wimbledon 2022&nbsp;after being stunned by Alize Cornet in 3rd round</a>

Rattled, Tsitsipas dropped serve early in the third set, then received a point penalty for launching a wild return off a Kyrgios underarm serve -- the ball thudding into the scoreboard. With his blood boiling, Tsitsipas drilled a close-range smash straight at Kyrgios in the next game, missing him and the court as the atmosphere turned toxic. He then had another go, this time clubbing a backhand straight at Kyrgios.

Serving sensationally, Kyrgios wrapped up the third set with a sublime reflex volley. Kyrgios, who was fined $10,000 for spitting towards a fan after his first-round win, had three break points in the first game of the fourth but, as if there was not already enough drama, slipped awkwardly and grimaced as he clutched his hip.

Tsitsipas wriggled out of trouble and with Kyrgios showing no ill effects the temperature lowered slightly. Kyrgios curled an audacious forehand to earn break points at 3-3 but Tsitsipas held firm and roared in defiance.

With gloom descending, Tsitsipas had 0-40 in the next game but Kyrgios served his way out of trouble to level before a short break for the roof to be closed and lights switched on -- allowing the crowd a welcome chance to draw breath.

On the resumption, Kyrgios saved one set point with a searing backhand winner and another in the tiebreak with an audacious half-volley drop shot. Another drop shot got the job done on his second match point and Kyrgios celebrated wildly, before a brief handshake at the net after three hours and 17 minutes of sporting theatre.

Australian maverick Nick Kyrgios knocked out fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in a wild and wonderful Wimbledon third-round slugfest that threatened to spiral out of control on Saturday.

Australian maverick Nick Kyrgios knocked out fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in a wild and wonderful Wimbledon third-round slugfest that threatened to spiral out of control on Saturday. The 27-year-old Kyrgios produced sublime tennis to earn a 6-7(2) 6-4 6-3 7-6(7) victory but the match will be remembered chiefly as one of the most bad-tempered seen at Wimbledon since the days of American bad boy John McEnroe. The eagerly-awaited Court One clash was the hottest ticket in town, even with Rafa Nadal playing over on Centre Court. It did not disappoint either, with scintillating tennis producing 118 clean winners and mayhem as both players lost their heads and received warnings. With the lights on and a deafening atmosphere, it was the unseeded Kyrgios who emerged from the chaos with one of his finest Grand Slam victories, edging a nerve-jangling fourth-set tiebreak after saving a set point. Kyrgios claimed victory with a drop shot and he will enter the last 16 for the fourth time, the first since 2016, with serious title aspirations. Next in his sights is unseeded American Brandon Nakashima. For most of a high-octane first set it was the quality of tennis from both players that held sway. Kyrgios was his usual chuntering self but lost his temper with umpire Damien Dumusois after an overruled line call at 5-5 in the first set as he threatened a service break. Tsitsipas remained focused to win the tiebreak and had a huge chance to seize control at 4-4 in the second set when Kyrgios let slip a 40-0 lead with two careless drop shots, but saved a break point with a second-serve ace. Also Read: Coco Gauff bows out of Wimbledon 2022 after defeat against Amanda Anisimova Both players given warnings: The fireworks really began in the next game. First Kyrgios was warned for an audible obscenity after being reported by a line judge, then he responded to break the Tsitsipas serve and steal the second set after the Greek failed to put away a smash with the court gaping. Tsitsipas snapped, whacking a ball that narrowly missed the head of a fan and earning a warning. Kyrgios ranted that Tsitsipas should have been defaulted, called the umpire "a disgrace" and demanded to talk to a supervisor. "Give me all the supervisors. I`m not playing until we get to the bottom of it," an irate Kyrgios said while Tsitsipas went off for a toilet break. On his return, the Greek booed as he became the unwitting villain in the Kyrgios pantomime. Also Read: World no.1 Iga Swiatek bows out of Wimbledon 2022 after being stunned by Alize Cornet in 3rd round Rattled, Tsitsipas dropped serve early in the third set, then received a point penalty for launching a wild return off a Kyrgios underarm serve -- the ball thudding into the scoreboard. With his blood boiling, Tsitsipas drilled a close-range smash straight at Kyrgios in the next game, missing him and the court as the atmosphere turned toxic. He then had another go, this time clubbing a backhand straight at Kyrgios. Serving sensationally, Kyrgios wrapped up the third set with a sublime reflex volley. Kyrgios, who was fined $10,000 for spitting towards a fan after his first-round win, had three break points in the first game of the fourth but, as if there was not already enough drama, slipped awkwardly and grimaced as he clutched his hip. Tsitsipas wriggled out of trouble and with Kyrgios showing no ill effects the temperature lowered slightly. Kyrgios curled an audacious forehand to earn break points at 3-3 but Tsitsipas held firm and roared in defiance. With gloom descending, Tsitsipas had 0-40 in the next game but Kyrgios served his way out of trouble to level before a short break for the roof to be closed and lights switched on -- allowing the crowd a welcome chance to draw breath. On the resumption, Kyrgios saved one set point with a searing backhand winner and another in the tiebreak with an audacious half-volley drop shot. Another drop shot got the job done on his second match point and Kyrgios celebrated wildly, before a brief handshake at the net after three hours and 17 minutes of sporting theatre.

Wimbledon 2022: Tempers boil as Nick Kyrgios stuns fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in dramatic clash

Nick Kyrgios and Stefanos Tsitsipas were involved in an ugly feud during the third-round clash between the duo at Wimbledon 2022 on Saturday (July 2). It was an intense duel between the two as tempers flared both on and off the court. Kyrgios got the better of 4th seed Tsitsipas 6-7(2) 6-4 6-3 7-6(7) in a gruelling encounter that lasted over three hours and was marred with controversy.

The tension between the duo started on the court after Kyrgios continuously complained to the match umpire and was also warned for swearing. Tsitsipas, who later called Kyrgios a 'bully', also lost his cool during the game and tried to hit the Australian star with a wild smash.

The incident happened during the third set between the duo when Tsitsipas delivered a hard smash towards Kyrgios trying to hit him with it. The Australian ignored Tsitsipas' attempts but the two were spotted exchanging words after the incident. Tsitsipas later admitted it was a deliberate attempt from him to hit Kyrgios.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/stefano-tsitsipas-calls-nick-kyrgios-a-bully-after-feud-during-wimbledon-2022-clash-aussie-responds-494045">Stefanos Tsitsipas calls Nick Kyrgios a 'bully' after feud during Wimbledon 2022 clash, Aussie responds</a> 
&nbsp;

Watch video:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Things are getting heated in the Kyrgios-Tsitsipas match at Wimbledon <a href="https://t.co/F1H0l3SU2Y">pic.twitter.com/F1H0l3SU2Y</a>
— Action Network (@ActionNetworkHQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/ActionNetworkHQ/status/1543311032315256837?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Earlier, during the second set, Tsitsipas couldn't control his frustration after continuous exchanges with Kyrgios and whacked a ball at the crowd in anger. The ball stormed towards the spectators but luckily no one was hit by it. Following his actions, Kyrgios demanded a default against his opponent but Tsitsipas was instead handed a code violation.

Watch video:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Fight night at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Wimbledon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Wimbledon</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kyrgios?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kyrgios</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tsitsipas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tsitsipas</a>. Takes me back to to the Ilie Năstase era. <a href="https://t.co/clYxgJDFfF">pic.twitter.com/clYxgJDFfF</a>
— Chris Raynor (@1950two) <a href="https://twitter.com/1950two/status/1543327425291063297?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-2022-tempers-boil-as-nick-kyrgios-stuns-fourth-seed-stefanos-tsitsipas-in-dramatic-clash-493980">Wimbledon 2022 - Tempers boil as Nick Kyrgios stuns fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in dramatic clash</a>

The feud between Kyrgios and Tsitsipas didn't end on the court and continued off it as the Greek world no.4 went on to label the Australian a 'bully' for his actions. Tsitsipas also said Kyrgios has an 'evil side' to his character.

"Yeah, it's constant bullying, that's what he does. He bullies opponents. He was probably a bully at school himself. I don't like bullies," Tsitsipas said at the post-match media conference.

"I don't like people that put other people down. He has some good traits in his character, as well. But he also has a very evil side to him, which if it's exposed, it can really do a lot of harm and bad to the people around him," he added.

&nbsp;

Nick Kyrgios and Stefanos Tsitsipas were involved in an ugly feud during the third-round clash between the duo at Wimbledon 2022 on Saturday (July 2). It was an intense duel between the two as tempers flared both on and off the court.

Nick Kyrgios and Stefanos Tsitsipas were involved in an ugly feud during the third-round clash between the duo at Wimbledon 2022 on Saturday (July 2). It was an intense duel between the two as tempers flared both on and off the court. Kyrgios got the better of 4th seed Tsitsipas 6-7(2) 6-4 6-3 7-6(7) in a gruelling encounter that lasted over three hours and was marred with controversy. The tension between the duo started on the court after Kyrgios continuously complained to the match umpire and was also warned for swearing. Tsitsipas, who later called Kyrgios a 'bully', also lost his cool during the game and tried to hit the Australian star with a wild smash. The incident happened during the third set between the duo when Tsitsipas delivered a hard smash towards Kyrgios trying to hit him with it. The Australian ignored Tsitsipas' attempts but the two were spotted exchanging words after the incident. Tsitsipas later admitted it was a deliberate attempt from him to hit Kyrgios. Also Read: Stefanos Tsitsipas calls Nick Kyrgios a 'bully' after feud during Wimbledon 2022 clash, Aussie responds Watch video: Things are getting heated in the Kyrgios-Tsitsipas match at Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/F1H0l3SU2Y — Action Network (@ActionNetworkHQ) July 2, 2022 × Earlier, during the second set, Tsitsipas couldn't control his frustration after continuous exchanges with Kyrgios and whacked a ball at the crowd in anger. The ball stormed towards the spectators but luckily no one was hit by it. Following his actions, Kyrgios demanded a default against his opponent but Tsitsipas was instead handed a code violation. Watch video: Fight night at #Wimbledon #Kyrgios #Tsitsipas. Takes me back to to the Ilie Năstase era. pic.twitter.com/clYxgJDFfF — Chris Raynor (@1950two) July 2, 2022 × Also Read: Wimbledon 2022 - Tempers boil as Nick Kyrgios stuns fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in dramatic clash The feud between Kyrgios and Tsitsipas didn't end on the court and continued off it as the Greek world no.4 went on to label the Australian a 'bully' for his actions. Tsitsipas also said Kyrgios has an 'evil side' to his character. "Yeah, it's constant bullying, that's what he does. He bullies opponents. He was probably a bully at school himself. I don't like bullies," Tsitsipas said at the post-match media conference. "I don't like people that put other people down. He has some good traits in his character, as well. But he also has a very evil side to him, which if it's exposed, it can really do a lot of harm and bad to the people around him," he added.

WATCH: Angry Stefanos Tsitsipas tries to hit Nick Kyrgios with wild smash, nearly hits a fan too

Nick Kyrgios and Stefanos Tsitsipas were involved in a heated clash during their third-round match at the ongoing Wimbledon 2022 on Saturday (July 02). It was a game marred with controversies and Kyrgios and Tsitsipas lost their cool against each other during the tense encounter. Greek fourth seed &nbsp;Tsitsipas went on to label Australian Kyrgios a 'bully' following his defeat against him and said the Aussie had an 'evil side' to his character.

There were more than three incidents that took place during the bad-tempered match between the duo as both players expressed their frustration on and off the court. Kyrgios defeated Tsitsipas 6-7(2) 6-4 6-3 7-6(7) in the game which lasted over three hours. Kyrgios was first warned for swearing by the referee before his 'constant bullying' forced Tsitsipas to try and hit him with a smash.

The Greek 4th seed didn't stop there and went on to express his anger on the court later by whacking a ball towards the crowd. The ball almost hit a fan in the stands and could have led to Tsitsipas being defaulted. His actions also saw the crowd present at Court One boo the world no.4.

The feud between Tsitsipas and Kyrgios continued post the game as they made jibes at each other during the post-match media conference. Tsitsipas was seemingly annoyed as he called out Kyrgios for bullying him and said the Australian had an evil side to him which can land him in trouble if exposed.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-2022-tempers-boil-as-nick-kyrgios-stuns-fourth-seed-stefanos-tsitsipas-in-dramatic-clash-493980">Wimbledon 2022 - Tempers boil as Nick Kyrgios stuns fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in dramatic clash</a>

"Yeah, it's constant bullying, that's what he does. He bullies opponents. He was probably a bully at school himself. I don't like bullies. I don't like people that put other people down. He has some good traits in his character, as well. But he also has a very evil side to him, which if it`s exposed, it can really do a lot of harm and bad to the people around him," Tsitsipas said at the post-match presser.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Things are getting heated in the Kyrgios-Tsitsipas match at Wimbledon <a href="https://t.co/F1H0l3SU2Y">pic.twitter.com/F1H0l3SU2Y</a>
— Action Network (@ActionNetworkHQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/ActionNetworkHQ/status/1543311032315256837?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Kyrgios, who is known for his controversial antics on and off the pitch, laughed off Tsitsipas'&nbsp;comments against him and refuted the allegations of bullying. Kyrgios, who was fined $10,000 for spitting at a fan during his first-round match at the ongoing Wimbledon 2022, said Tsitsipas'&nbsp;comments prove he is 'just soft' and isn't a true competitor.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-2022-world-no1-iga-swiatek-bows-out-after-being-stunned-by-alize-cornet-in-3rd-round-493977">World no.1 Iga Swiatek bows out after being stunned by Alize Cornet in Wimbledon 3rd round</a>

"I don't know what to say. I'm not sure how I bullied him. He was the one hitting balls at me, he was the one that hit a spectator, he was the one that smacked it out of the stadium," said Kyrgios, who is in the last 16 for the fourth time," Kyrgios said responding to Tsitsipas.

"I did nothing towards Stefanos today that was disrespectful. I was not drilling him with balls. To come in here and say I bullied him, that`s just soft. We're not cut from the same cloth. I go up against guys who are true competitors. I've got many friends in the locker room, just to let you know. I'm actually one of the most liked. I`m set. He's not liked. Let`s just put that there," he added. 
&nbsp;

Nick Kyrgios and Stefanos Tsitsipas were involved in a heated clash during their third-round match at the ongoing Wimbledon 2022 on Saturday (July 02). It was a game marred with controversies and Kyrgios and Tsitsipas lost their cool against each other during the tense encounter.

Nick Kyrgios and Stefanos Tsitsipas were involved in a heated clash during their third-round match at the ongoing Wimbledon 2022 on Saturday (July 02). It was a game marred with controversies and Kyrgios and Tsitsipas lost their cool against each other during the tense encounter. Greek fourth seed Tsitsipas went on to label Australian Kyrgios a 'bully' following his defeat against him and said the Aussie had an 'evil side' to his character. There were more than three incidents that took place during the bad-tempered match between the duo as both players expressed their frustration on and off the court. Kyrgios defeated Tsitsipas 6-7(2) 6-4 6-3 7-6(7) in the game which lasted over three hours. Kyrgios was first warned for swearing by the referee before his 'constant bullying' forced Tsitsipas to try and hit him with a smash. The Greek 4th seed didn't stop there and went on to express his anger on the court later by whacking a ball towards the crowd. The ball almost hit a fan in the stands and could have led to Tsitsipas being defaulted. His actions also saw the crowd present at Court One boo the world no.4. The feud between Tsitsipas and Kyrgios continued post the game as they made jibes at each other during the post-match media conference. Tsitsipas was seemingly annoyed as he called out Kyrgios for bullying him and said the Australian had an evil side to him which can land him in trouble if exposed. Also Read: Wimbledon 2022 - Tempers boil as Nick Kyrgios stuns fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in dramatic clash "Yeah, it's constant bullying, that's what he does. He bullies opponents. He was probably a bully at school himself. I don't like bullies. I don't like people that put other people down. He has some good traits in his character, as well. But he also has a very evil side to him, which if it`s exposed, it can really do a lot of harm and bad to the people around him," Tsitsipas said at the post-match presser. Things are getting heated in the Kyrgios-Tsitsipas match at Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/F1H0l3SU2Y — Action Network (@ActionNetworkHQ) July 2, 2022 × Kyrgios, who is known for his controversial antics on and off the pitch, laughed off Tsitsipas' comments against him and refuted the allegations of bullying. Kyrgios, who was fined $10,000 for spitting at a fan during his first-round match at the ongoing Wimbledon 2022, said Tsitsipas' comments prove he is 'just soft' and isn't a true competitor. Also Read: World no.1 Iga Swiatek bows out after being stunned by Alize Cornet in Wimbledon 3rd round "I don't know what to say. I'm not sure how I bullied him. He was the one hitting balls at me, he was the one that hit a spectator, he was the one that smacked it out of the stadium," said Kyrgios, who is in the last 16 for the fourth time," Kyrgios said responding to Tsitsipas. "I did nothing towards Stefanos today that was disrespectful. I was not drilling him with balls. To come in here and say I bullied him, that`s just soft. We're not cut from the same cloth. I go up against guys who are true competitors. I've got many friends in the locker room, just to let you know. I'm actually one of the most liked. I`m set. He's not liked. Let`s just put that there," he added.

Stefanos Tsitsipas calls Nick Kyrgios a 'bully' after feud during Wimbledon 2022 clash, Aussie responds

Fourth seed Stefanos&nbsp;Tsitsipas&nbsp;set up a blockbuster Wimbledon third-round clash against Nick Kyrgios on Thursday. Tsitsipas&nbsp;defeated Australia's Jordan Thompson 6-2, 6-3, 7-5 to make the last 32 for the second time.

Kyrgios earlier pulled off an impressive 6-2, 6-3, 6-1 win over Serbian 26th seed Filip Krajinovic to make the last 32 for the sixth time. Australian star Kyrgios leads&nbsp;Tsitsipas&nbsp;3-1 including a victory on grass in Halle earlier this month.

"I feel like everyone here knows who Nick is," said&nbsp;Tsitsipas. "We have had many great matches against each other. I respect him for his game and the way he fights when he wants to."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sania-mirza-lucie-hradecka-face-1st-round-exit-in-indian-stars-last-wimbledon-493312">Sania Mirza, Lucie Hradecka face 1st round exit in Indian star's last Wimbledon</a>

More Wimbledon results on Thursday on the fourth day of the 2022 championships at the All England Club (x denotes seeded player) are as follows:

Men

2nd rd

Christian Garín (CHI) bt Hugo Grenier (FRA) 6-3, 6-1, 6-1

Daniel Galan (COL) bt Roberto Bautista Agut (ESP x17) - walkover

Nick Kyrgios (AUS) bt Filip Krajinovic (SRB x26) 6-2, 6-3, 6-1

Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE x4) bt Jordan Thompson (AUS) 6-2, 6-3, 7-5

Alex Molcan (SVK) bt Marcos Giron (USA) 6-3, 6-2, 6-4

Taylor Fritz (USA x11) bt Alastair Gray (GBR) 6-3, 7-6 (7/3), 6-3

Richard Gasquet (FRA) bt Mackenzie McDonald (USA) 6-3, 3-6, 6-4, 6-3

Botic van de Zandschulp (NED x21) bt Emil Ruusuvuori (FIN) 3-6, 6-1, 6-4, 6-4

Lorenzo Sonego (ITA x27) bt Hugo Gaston (FRA) 7-6 (7/4), 6-4, 6-4

Women

2nd rd

Alize Cornet (FRA) bt Claire Liu (USA) 6-3, 6-3

Ajla Tomljanovic (AUS) bt Catherine Harrison (USA) 6-2, 6-2

Barbora Krejcikova (CZE x13) bt Viktorija Golubic (SUI) 6-3, 6-4

Zheng Qinwen (CHN) bt Greet Minnen (BEL) 6-4, 6-1

Elena Rybakina (KAZ x17) bt Bianca Andreescu (CAN) 6-4, 7-6 (7/5)

Paula Badosa (ESP x4) bt Irina Bara (ROM) 6-3, 6-2

Petra Kvitova (CZE x25) bt Ana Bogdan (ROM) 6-1, 7-6 (7/5)

Harmony Tan (FRA) bt Sara Sorribes Tormo (ESP x32) 6-3, 6-4

Katie Boulter (GBR) bt Karolína&nbsp;Pliskova&nbsp;(CZE x6) 3-6, 7-6 (7/4), 6-4

Elise Mertens (BEL x24) bt Panna Udvardy (HUN) 3-6, 7-6 (7/5), 7-5

Heather Watson (GBR) bt Wang Qiang (CHN) 7-5, 6-4

Fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas set up a blockbuster Wimbledon third-round clash against Nick Kyrgios on Thursday. Tsitsipas defeated Australia's Jordan Thompson 6-2, 6-3, 7-5 to make the last 32 for the second time.

Fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas set up a blockbuster Wimbledon third-round clash against Nick Kyrgios on Thursday. Tsitsipas defeated Australia's Jordan Thompson 6-2, 6-3, 7-5 to make the last 32 for the second time. Kyrgios earlier pulled off an impressive 6-2, 6-3, 6-1 win over Serbian 26th seed Filip Krajinovic to make the last 32 for the sixth time. Australian star Kyrgios leads Tsitsipas 3-1 including a victory on grass in Halle earlier this month. "I feel like everyone here knows who Nick is," said Tsitsipas. "We have had many great matches against each other. I respect him for his game and the way he fights when he wants to." ALSO READ | Sania Mirza, Lucie Hradecka face 1st round exit in Indian star's last Wimbledon More Wimbledon results on Thursday on the fourth day of the 2022 championships at the All England Club (x denotes seeded player) are as follows: Men 2nd rd Christian Garín (CHI) bt Hugo Grenier (FRA) 6-3, 6-1, 6-1 Daniel Galan (COL) bt Roberto Bautista Agut (ESP x17) - walkover Nick Kyrgios (AUS) bt Filip Krajinovic (SRB x26) 6-2, 6-3, 6-1 Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE x4) bt Jordan Thompson (AUS) 6-2, 6-3, 7-5 Alex Molcan (SVK) bt Marcos Giron (USA) 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 Taylor Fritz (USA x11) bt Alastair Gray (GBR) 6-3, 7-6 (7/3), 6-3 Richard Gasquet (FRA) bt Mackenzie McDonald (USA) 6-3, 3-6, 6-4, 6-3 Botic van de Zandschulp (NED x21) bt Emil Ruusuvuori (FIN) 3-6, 6-1, 6-4, 6-4 Lorenzo Sonego (ITA x27) bt Hugo Gaston (FRA) 7-6 (7/4), 6-4, 6-4 Women 2nd rd Alize Cornet (FRA) bt Claire Liu (USA) 6-3, 6-3 Ajla Tomljanovic (AUS) bt Catherine Harrison (USA) 6-2, 6-2 Barbora Krejcikova (CZE x13) bt Viktorija Golubic (SUI) 6-3, 6-4 Zheng Qinwen (CHN) bt Greet Minnen (BEL) 6-4, 6-1 Elena Rybakina (KAZ x17) bt Bianca Andreescu (CAN) 6-4, 7-6 (7/5) Paula Badosa (ESP x4) bt Irina Bara (ROM) 6-3, 6-2 Petra Kvitova (CZE x25) bt Ana Bogdan (ROM) 6-1, 7-6 (7/5) Harmony Tan (FRA) bt Sara Sorribes Tormo (ESP x32) 6-3, 6-4 Katie Boulter (GBR) bt Karolína Pliskova (CZE x6) 3-6, 7-6 (7/4), 6-4 Elise Mertens (BEL x24) bt Panna Udvardy (HUN) 3-6, 7-6 (7/5), 7-5 Heather Watson (GBR) bt Wang Qiang (CHN) 7-5, 6-4

Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas set to face Nick Kyrgios for Wimbledon last-16 place

Teenage sensation Holger Rune outmuscled world number four and last-year's French Open finalist Stefanos Tsitsipas 7-5 3-6 6-3 6-4 on Monday to move into the quarter-finals with his biggest Grand Slam win to date.

The Dane, who has improved more than 350 places in the world rankings in the past 15 months, joins fellow 19-year-old Carlos Alcaraz in the last eight, the first time two teenagers made that stage at a Grand Slam since 1994. "I have an unbelievable feeling. I was so nervous in the end," said a beaming Rune, playing in his first French Open. "I was very nervous. I told myself to keep at it and play my plan. I mean it is so great to still be here."

"Part of the tactic to play as aggressive as possible when he gets shorter balls he attacks them. I really liked playing the drop shots and it worked out pretty good so I am happy." Fourth seed Tsitsipas, hunting for his first ever Grand Slam, started well and broke the Dane to go 3-1 up when Rune`s drop shot was not short enough and the Greek whipped a cross-court winner past him.

Rune, however, broke him twice, clinching the set with a disputed line call that went in his favour. Tsitsipas did not lose his composure and saved three consecutive break points in the very first game of the second set, powering back to seal it.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-2022-novak-djokovic-v-rafael-nadal-put-on-night-session-despite-spaniards-reluctance-483577">French Open 2022: Novak Djokovic v Rafael Nadal put on night session despite Spaniard's reluctance</a>

He did slip up though midway through the third when two double faults and two unforced errors handed Rune a key break and the teenager went 2-1 up in sets when Tsitsipas did well to return a Rune smash but then fired a topspin forehand into the net. The Dane succeeded in getting Tsitsipas out of his comfort zone on the baseline, sending his tall opponent to the net with drop points and stretching him wide off the court with deep cross-court balls.

Rune had three break points at the start of the fourth which the Greek saved but the teen made amends on his opponent`s next two service game to open up a 5-2 lead with a scorching backhand down the line. 
He did show some nerves in the end as Tsitsipas fought back to 5-4 and even had break points but Rune made sure of his big win on the first match point just as the clock ticked past the three hour mark.

Teenage sensation Holger Rune outmuscled world number four and last-year's French Open finalist Stefanos Tsitsipas 7-5 3-6 6-3 6-4 on Monday to move into the quarter-finals with his biggest Grand Slam win to date.

Teenage sensation Holger Rune outmuscled world number four and last-year's French Open finalist Stefanos Tsitsipas 7-5 3-6 6-3 6-4 on Monday to move into the quarter-finals with his biggest Grand Slam win to date. The Dane, who has improved more than 350 places in the world rankings in the past 15 months, joins fellow 19-year-old Carlos Alcaraz in the last eight, the first time two teenagers made that stage at a Grand Slam since 1994. "I have an unbelievable feeling. I was so nervous in the end," said a beaming Rune, playing in his first French Open. "I was very nervous. I told myself to keep at it and play my plan. I mean it is so great to still be here." "Part of the tactic to play as aggressive as possible when he gets shorter balls he attacks them. I really liked playing the drop shots and it worked out pretty good so I am happy." Fourth seed Tsitsipas, hunting for his first ever Grand Slam, started well and broke the Dane to go 3-1 up when Rune`s drop shot was not short enough and the Greek whipped a cross-court winner past him. Rune, however, broke him twice, clinching the set with a disputed line call that went in his favour. Tsitsipas did not lose his composure and saved three consecutive break points in the very first game of the second set, powering back to seal it. ALSO READ | French Open 2022: Novak Djokovic v Rafael Nadal put on night session despite Spaniard's reluctance He did slip up though midway through the third when two double faults and two unforced errors handed Rune a key break and the teenager went 2-1 up in sets when Tsitsipas did well to return a Rune smash but then fired a topspin forehand into the net. The Dane succeeded in getting Tsitsipas out of his comfort zone on the baseline, sending his tall opponent to the net with drop points and stretching him wide off the court with deep cross-court balls. Rune had three break points at the start of the fourth which the Greek saved but the teen made amends on his opponent`s next two service game to open up a 5-2 lead with a scorching backhand down the line. He did show some nerves in the end as Tsitsipas fought back to 5-4 and even had break points but Rune made sure of his big win on the first match point just as the clock ticked past the three hour mark.

French Open: Teenager Holger Rune shows last year's finalist Stefanos Tsitsipas the exit door

World No. 4 Stefanos Tsitsipas had to work hard for a win on Thursday, the Greek overcome Czech qualifier Zdenek Kolar in the second round of the French Open 2022. The Greek held off a hard challenge from Czech qualifier Zdenek Kolar to advance 6-3, 7-6(8), 6-7(3), 7-6(7).

Tsitsipas won the opening set in a comprehensive manner, but both the players were toe-to-toe to win the match. After losing the first two sets, pretty Kolar made a strong comeback and won the third set. Even in the fourth set, in the qualifier, Tsitsipas had to fight hard to claim the match.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-romanian-star-irina-camelia-begu-apologises-after-throwing-racquet-on-a-young-kid-watch-482630">French Open: Romanian star Irina-Camelia Begu apologises after throwing racquet on a young kid - WATCH</a>

Tsitsipas will face Mikael Ymer, who matched his best Grand Slam result with a 6-3, 3-6, 6-2, 6-3 upset over No. 29 seed Dan Evans.Earlier, Daniil Medvedev advanced to the third round at the ongoing French Open 2022 with a straight-sets win over Serbia`s Laslo Djere at Court Philippe-Chatrier. The second-seeded Russian defeated Djere 6-3, 6-4, 6-3.

World No. 4 Stefanos Tsitsipas had to work hard for a win on Thursday, the Greek overcome Czech qualifier Zdenek Kolar in the second round of the French Open 2022.

World No. 4 Stefanos Tsitsipas had to work hard for a win on Thursday, the Greek overcome Czech qualifier Zdenek Kolar in the second round of the French Open 2022. The Greek held off a hard challenge from Czech qualifier Zdenek Kolar to advance 6-3, 7-6(8), 6-7(3), 7-6(7). Tsitsipas won the opening set in a comprehensive manner, but both the players were toe-to-toe to win the match. After losing the first two sets, pretty Kolar made a strong comeback and won the third set. Even in the fourth set, in the qualifier, Tsitsipas had to fight hard to claim the match. ALSO READ | French Open: Romanian star Irina-Camelia Begu apologises after throwing racquet on a young kid - WATCH Tsitsipas will face Mikael Ymer, who matched his best Grand Slam result with a 6-3, 3-6, 6-2, 6-3 upset over No. 29 seed Dan Evans.Earlier, Daniil Medvedev advanced to the third round at the ongoing French Open 2022 with a straight-sets win over Serbia`s Laslo Djere at Court Philippe-Chatrier. The second-seeded Russian defeated Djere 6-3, 6-4, 6-3.

French Open: Stefanos Tsitsipas survives Zdenek Kolar scare to enter third round in Paris

World No. 4 Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece rallied from two sets down against Italy`s Lorenzo Musetti and advanced to the second round of the French Open with a 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, 6-2 win at the Philippe-Chatrier arena. 
 
"Things don`t come easy. I refuse to give up. That`s simply how it works with me," Tsitsipas said after the match, which ended past midnight. "You never really think about getting back after being two sets to love. You just play it point after point. You just wish that your efforts will pay off on a longer scale, longer run," the Greek was quoted as saying by atptour.com. 
 
"Being in that situation... it`s a mountain that you have to climb, and I was able to climb it and regain the momentum steadily, but consistently," he added. 
 
This is the second time in less than two years that Tsitsipas has produced a great escape in the opening round in Paris. He also came back from two sets down against Jaume Munar of Spain in September 2020 in the rescheduled edition of the clay-court Grand Slam. Tsitsipas repeated the feat against Rafael Nadal at the 2021 Australian Open.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-no-2-daniil-medvedev-cruises-past-facundo-bagnis-to-begin-roland-garros-campaign-481828">World No. 2 Daniil Medvedev cruises past Facundo Bagnis to begin Roland Garros campaign</a>

The 20-year-old Musetti also had tournament favourite Novak Djokovic on the ropes for the second straight year at the French Open in 2021. He won two tie-breaks to take control against the Serb in the 2021 fourth round, but faded late in the match. Djokovic went on to win at Roland Garros that year. 
 
"He`s fighting. He`s a talented player that has a very nice one-handed backhand. He knows the game on clay. He has grown up playing (on) these courts," Tsitsipas opined. "He`s definitely a difficult opponent to face in any circumstance, really. 
 
"Once I really found my momentum on the serve, my routines and everything, I knew that it can be a different match," Tsitsipas said. "I felt like I was serving better than him, creating more opportunities with my serve, pressing more. It would have been kind of not fair from my perspective to have a different outcome." 
 
With the victory, Tsitsipas advances to face Czech qualifier Zdenek Kolar, who defeated France`s Lucas Pouille, 6-3, 4-6, 7-5, 6-4 earlier on Tuesday.

World No. 4 Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece rallied from two sets down against Italy`s Lorenzo Musetti and advanced to the second round of the French Open with a 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, 6-2 win at the Philippe-Chatrier arena.

World No. 4 Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece rallied from two sets down against Italy`s Lorenzo Musetti and advanced to the second round of the French Open with a 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, 6-2 win at the Philippe-Chatrier arena. "Things don`t come easy. I refuse to give up. That`s simply how it works with me," Tsitsipas said after the match, which ended past midnight. "You never really think about getting back after being two sets to love. You just play it point after point. You just wish that your efforts will pay off on a longer scale, longer run," the Greek was quoted as saying by atptour.com. "Being in that situation... it`s a mountain that you have to climb, and I was able to climb it and regain the momentum steadily, but consistently," he added. This is the second time in less than two years that Tsitsipas has produced a great escape in the opening round in Paris. He also came back from two sets down against Jaume Munar of Spain in September 2020 in the rescheduled edition of the clay-court Grand Slam. Tsitsipas repeated the feat against Rafael Nadal at the 2021 Australian Open. ALSO READ | World No. 2 Daniil Medvedev cruises past Facundo Bagnis to begin Roland Garros campaign The 20-year-old Musetti also had tournament favourite Novak Djokovic on the ropes for the second straight year at the French Open in 2021. He won two tie-breaks to take control against the Serb in the 2021 fourth round, but faded late in the match. Djokovic went on to win at Roland Garros that year. "He`s fighting. He`s a talented player that has a very nice one-handed backhand. He knows the game on clay. He has grown up playing (on) these courts," Tsitsipas opined. "He`s definitely a difficult opponent to face in any circumstance, really. "Once I really found my momentum on the serve, my routines and everything, I knew that it can be a different match," Tsitsipas said. "I felt like I was serving better than him, creating more opportunities with my serve, pressing more. It would have been kind of not fair from my perspective to have a different outcome." With the victory, Tsitsipas advances to face Czech qualifier Zdenek Kolar, who defeated France`s Lucas Pouille, 6-3, 4-6, 7-5, 6-4 earlier on Tuesday.

French Open: World No. 4 Stefanos Tsitsipas overcomes Italy's Lorenzo Musetti challenge to advance

Defending champion Novak Djokovic and 13-times winner Rafael Nadal are on a quarter-final collision course at the French Open following the draw on Thursday. World number one Djokovic, back on the Grand Slam scene after being deported from Melbourne ahead of the Australian Open following his decision not to have a COVID-19 vaccination, will start his campaign against Japan`s Yoshihito Nishioka.

He was drawn in the toughest half of the draw with Nadal as well as in-form Spanish teenager Carlos Alcaraz and world number three Alexander Zverev, who could clash in the last eight. The French Open will operate at full capacity for the first time in three years after the last two tournaments were disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. "It`s amazing to see all the fans who have already come here for the qualifications," said Djokovic, who attended the draw ceremony at Roland Garros.

In the lower part of the draw, last year`s runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas faces a tricky first-round match against Italian Lorenzo Musetti, who last year took Djokovic to five sets in the fourth round. World number two Daniil Medvedev could take on compatriot Andrey Rublev in the quarter-finals as Russian players have been allowed to compete despite their country`s invasion of Ukraine.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sunshine-double-novak-djokovic-and-his-7-year-old-son-win-tournaments-on-same-day-479668">'Sunshine double': Novak Djokovic and his 7-year-old son win tournaments on same day</a>

Wimbledon organisers have decided to ban Russian and Belarusian players from taking part in the grasscourt Grand Slam this year. In the women`s draw, hot favourite Iga Swiatek, looking to secure her second French Open title in three years, could face former champion Jelena Ostapenko in the last 16. 
Ostapenko was the last player to beat the Polish world number one before she started her 28-match unbeaten streak, winning five titles before the start of the French Open on Sunday.

Defending champion Barbora Krejcikova is on a last-16 collision course with former world number one Victoria Azarenka in the lower part of the draw. Naomi Osaka, who withdrew from the tournament last year after skipping her media duties and citing mental health issues, has been drawn to face American Amanda Anisimova, the 27th seed.

Defending champion Novak Djokovic and 13-times winner Rafael Nadal are on a quarter-final collision course at the French Open following the draw on Thursday. World number one Djokovic, back on the Grand Slam scene after being deported from Melbourne ahead of the Australian Open following his decision not to have a COVID-19 vaccination, will start his campaign against Japan`s Yoshihito Nishioka.

Defending champion Novak Djokovic and 13-times winner Rafael Nadal are on a quarter-final collision course at the French Open following the draw on Thursday. World number one Djokovic, back on the Grand Slam scene after being deported from Melbourne ahead of the Australian Open following his decision not to have a COVID-19 vaccination, will start his campaign against Japan`s Yoshihito Nishioka. He was drawn in the toughest half of the draw with Nadal as well as in-form Spanish teenager Carlos Alcaraz and world number three Alexander Zverev, who could clash in the last eight. The French Open will operate at full capacity for the first time in three years after the last two tournaments were disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. "It`s amazing to see all the fans who have already come here for the qualifications," said Djokovic, who attended the draw ceremony at Roland Garros. In the lower part of the draw, last year`s runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas faces a tricky first-round match against Italian Lorenzo Musetti, who last year took Djokovic to five sets in the fourth round. World number two Daniil Medvedev could take on compatriot Andrey Rublev in the quarter-finals as Russian players have been allowed to compete despite their country`s invasion of Ukraine. ALSO READ | 'Sunshine double': Novak Djokovic and his 7-year-old son win tournaments on same day Wimbledon organisers have decided to ban Russian and Belarusian players from taking part in the grasscourt Grand Slam this year. In the women`s draw, hot favourite Iga Swiatek, looking to secure her second French Open title in three years, could face former champion Jelena Ostapenko in the last 16. Ostapenko was the last player to beat the Polish world number one before she started her 28-match unbeaten streak, winning five titles before the start of the French Open on Sunday. Defending champion Barbora Krejcikova is on a last-16 collision course with former world number one Victoria Azarenka in the lower part of the draw. Naomi Osaka, who withdrew from the tournament last year after skipping her media duties and citing mental health issues, has been drawn to face American Amanda Anisimova, the 27th seed.

Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal could lock horns in French Open quarter-finals

World number one Novak Djokovic claimed his first title in over six months after beating Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-0 7-6(5) to win the Italian Open on Sunday.

Djokovic did not drop a set en route to the final in Rome, having picked up his 1,000th tour-level victory by beating Casper Ruud in the semi-final to book a clash with Tsitsipas - a repeat of last year`s French Open final, which the Serb won.

A sixth-successive win for Djokovic over his Greek opponent looked inevitable as he stormed through the first set with a blistering display of hitting, to which Tsitsipas had no answer.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-manchester-city-lose-crucial-points-with-draw-against-west-ham-479230" hreflang="en">Premier League: Manchester City lose crucial points with draw against West Ham</a>

Tsitsipas`s name rung around Campo Centrale in the fourth game of the second set, however, as an unforced error from Djokovic gave the Greek player two break points, the first of which he converted to take a 3-1 lead in the set.

After Tsitsipas held to make it 4-1, Djokovic then upped it a gear, winning five of the next seven games to take it to a tiebreak before sealing his sixth Italian Open title, and first since winning the Paris Masters in November.

It has been the perfect week for the 34-year-old, who became only the fifth man in the Open Era to reach the 1,000 wins milestone after Jimmy Connors, Roger Federer, Ivan Lendl and Rafa Nadal, ahead of the start of the French Open next Sunday.

World number one Novak Djokovic claimed his first title in over six months after beating Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-0 7-6(5) to win the Italian Open on Sunday. Djokovic did not drop a set en route to the final in Rome, having picked up his 1,000th tour-level victory by beating Casper Ruud in the semi-final to book a clash with Tsitsipas - a repeat of last year`s French Open final, which the Serb won.

World number one Novak Djokovic claimed his first title in over six months after beating Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-0 7-6(5) to win the Italian Open on Sunday. Djokovic did not drop a set en route to the final in Rome, having picked up his 1,000th tour-level victory by beating Casper Ruud in the semi-final to book a clash with Tsitsipas - a repeat of last year`s French Open final, which the Serb won. A sixth-successive win for Djokovic over his Greek opponent looked inevitable as he stormed through the first set with a blistering display of hitting, to which Tsitsipas had no answer. Also read | Premier League: Manchester City lose crucial points with draw against West Ham Tsitsipas`s name rung around Campo Centrale in the fourth game of the second set, however, as an unforced error from Djokovic gave the Greek player two break points, the first of which he converted to take a 3-1 lead in the set. After Tsitsipas held to make it 4-1, Djokovic then upped it a gear, winning five of the next seven games to take it to a tiebreak before sealing his sixth Italian Open title, and first since winning the Paris Masters in November. It has been the perfect week for the 34-year-old, who became only the fifth man in the Open Era to reach the 1,000 wins milestone after Jimmy Connors, Roger Federer, Ivan Lendl and Rafa Nadal, ahead of the start of the French Open next Sunday.

Novak Djokovic wins Italian Open to claim first title in over six months

World number five Stefanos Tsitsipas reached the Italian Open final for the first time after the Greek rallied to defeat Alexander Zverev 4-6 6-3 6-3 on Saturday.

Tsitsipas, who will rise to fourth in the new ATP rankings next week, will need to beat either top-ranked Novak Djokovic or Norwegian fifth seed Casper Ruud to claim his third Masters 1000 title.

In the third claycourt Masters 1000 semi-final between the pair this season, Tsitsipas overcame Zverev as he stayed consistent from the baseline and strong on serve throughout.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bundesliga-sloppy-bayern-munich-draw-in-season-finale-robert-lewandowski-ready-to-leave-478971" hreflang="en">Bundesliga: Sloppy Bayern Munich draw in season finale, Robert Lewandowski ready to leave</a>

Zverev was clinical in the opening set with his first serve working like clockwork, but the German dropped a set for the first time in this year`s tournament as Tsitsipas raised his own level in the second set.

Tsitsipas struck first in the decider, earning a break to lead 3-2 when Zverev sent a forehand into the net.

Tsitsipas broke the Zverev serve again to eventually claim a comfortable victory as the German`s game went off the boil. He now has a Tour-leading 31 match wins this year and leads his head-to-head against Zverev 8-4.

Defeat meant Zverev is yet to win a title this season.

World number five Stefanos Tsitsipas reached the Italian Open final for the first time after the Greek rallied to defeat Alexander Zverev 4-6 6-3 6-3 on Saturday.

World number five Stefanos Tsitsipas reached the Italian Open final for the first time after the Greek rallied to defeat Alexander Zverev 4-6 6-3 6-3 on Saturday. Tsitsipas, who will rise to fourth in the new ATP rankings next week, will need to beat either top-ranked Novak Djokovic or Norwegian fifth seed Casper Ruud to claim his third Masters 1000 title. In the third claycourt Masters 1000 semi-final between the pair this season, Tsitsipas overcame Zverev as he stayed consistent from the baseline and strong on serve throughout. Also read | Bundesliga: Sloppy Bayern Munich draw in season finale, Robert Lewandowski ready to leave Zverev was clinical in the opening set with his first serve working like clockwork, but the German dropped a set for the first time in this year`s tournament as Tsitsipas raised his own level in the second set. Tsitsipas struck first in the decider, earning a break to lead 3-2 when Zverev sent a forehand into the net. Tsitsipas broke the Zverev serve again to eventually claim a comfortable victory as the German`s game went off the boil. He now has a Tour-leading 31 match wins this year and leads his head-to-head against Zverev 8-4. Defeat meant Zverev is yet to win a title this season.

Stefanos Tsitsipas reaches Italian Open final with comeback win over Alexander Zverev

World number three Alexander Zverev remained on course to claim his first title of the season after overcoming Cristian Garin at the Italian Open on Friday to set up a semi-final showdown with Stefanos Tsitsipas, who saw off home favourite Jannik Sinner.

Zverev, who won the title in Rome in 2017, eased into the last four with a 7-5 6-2 win over Garin in the pair`s first meeting since the Chilean upset him on home soil en route to winning the ATP 250 event in Munich three years ago. Garin, the only unseeded player remaining, had the first break point of the match at 3-2 but Zverev squirmed his way out of it and broke his 25-year-old opponent to take a 4-3 lead and, after some poor shot selection, closed out a gritty opening set.

Zverev comfortably won the second set after Garin dropped serve in his first game, converting two out of his seven break points to wrap up the victory. "I think it was a high level match, at times it wasn`t pretty tennis but I got the job done and that`s the most important thing," said Zverev, who is yet to drop a set in Rome. 
The 25-year-old German will face Tsitsipas in the semi-finals of an ATP tournament for the third time in the space of a month, after the world number five kept his composure in front of a raucous crowd to hold off Sinner for a 7-6(5) 6-2 victory.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/iga-swiatek-gets-past-bianca-andreescu-in-rome-to-bag-26th-consecutive-win-478727">Iga Swiatek gets past Bianca Andreescu in Rome to bag 26th consecutive win</a>

In an entertaining opening lasting nearly an hour and a half, Tsitsipas raced to a 3-0 lead and Sinner battled back to draw level before the Greek edged it on the tiebreak. Tsitsipas cruised through the second set and, after a stoppage in play at match point when a spectator fell ill, dealt with Sinner`s miscalculated drop shot to triumph.

The 23-year-old beat Zverev in Monte Carlo before clinching the title in April before the German avenged his defeat in Madrid last week. "He`s a player that challenges me when I`m out on the court," Tsitsipas said of Zverev. "He has a lot of experience on the tour, much earlier than when I started playing here. 
"We have similar game styles but he is one of the most difficult players on the tour... I have a lot of respect for him. He has achieved a lot so far and I try and look up to him."

Norwegian fifth seed Casper Ruud continued his good form on European clay as he saved two set points against Canada`s Denis Shapovalov for a hard-fought 7-6(7) 7-5 win. Ruud plays either world number one Novak Djokovic or Canadian eighth seed Felix Auger-Aliassime for a place in the final.

World number three Alexander Zverev remained on course to claim his first title of the season after overcoming Cristian Garin at the Italian Open on Friday to set up a semi-final showdown with Stefanos Tsitsipas, who saw off home favourite Jannik Sinner.

World number three Alexander Zverev remained on course to claim his first title of the season after overcoming Cristian Garin at the Italian Open on Friday to set up a semi-final showdown with Stefanos Tsitsipas, who saw off home favourite Jannik Sinner. Zverev, who won the title in Rome in 2017, eased into the last four with a 7-5 6-2 win over Garin in the pair`s first meeting since the Chilean upset him on home soil en route to winning the ATP 250 event in Munich three years ago. Garin, the only unseeded player remaining, had the first break point of the match at 3-2 but Zverev squirmed his way out of it and broke his 25-year-old opponent to take a 4-3 lead and, after some poor shot selection, closed out a gritty opening set. Zverev comfortably won the second set after Garin dropped serve in his first game, converting two out of his seven break points to wrap up the victory. "I think it was a high level match, at times it wasn`t pretty tennis but I got the job done and that`s the most important thing," said Zverev, who is yet to drop a set in Rome. The 25-year-old German will face Tsitsipas in the semi-finals of an ATP tournament for the third time in the space of a month, after the world number five kept his composure in front of a raucous crowd to hold off Sinner for a 7-6(5) 6-2 victory. ALSO READ | Iga Swiatek gets past Bianca Andreescu in Rome to bag 26th consecutive win In an entertaining opening lasting nearly an hour and a half, Tsitsipas raced to a 3-0 lead and Sinner battled back to draw level before the Greek edged it on the tiebreak. Tsitsipas cruised through the second set and, after a stoppage in play at match point when a spectator fell ill, dealt with Sinner`s miscalculated drop shot to triumph. The 23-year-old beat Zverev in Monte Carlo before clinching the title in April before the German avenged his defeat in Madrid last week. "He`s a player that challenges me when I`m out on the court," Tsitsipas said of Zverev. "He has a lot of experience on the tour, much earlier than when I started playing here. "We have similar game styles but he is one of the most difficult players on the tour... I have a lot of respect for him. He has achieved a lot so far and I try and look up to him." Norwegian fifth seed Casper Ruud continued his good form on European clay as he saved two set points against Canada`s Denis Shapovalov for a hard-fought 7-6(7) 7-5 win. Ruud plays either world number one Novak Djokovic or Canadian eighth seed Felix Auger-Aliassime for a place in the final.

World No. 3 Alexander Zverev sets up semi-final clash with Stefanos Tsitsipas in Rome

Defending champion Rafa Nadal began his Italian Open campaign with an emphatic 6-3 6-1 victory over big-serving American John Isner to move into the last-16 on Wednesday while Stefanos Tsitsipas saved two match points to advance.

Nadal, who returned from a rib injury this month and fell at the quarter-final hurdle in Madrid last week, dominated Isner who struggled to find answers once the Spaniard, seeking his 11th title at Rome`s Foro Italico, hit his stride.

Isner leads the ATP Tour with over 450 aces in 2022 but Nadal negated the American`s booming serve by receiving from well behind the baseline -- even on his second serve -- breaking four times and restricting him to just one ace in the match.

The match went with serve in the opening set and Isner squandered two break points at 3-3, before Nadal stepped up his game and broke in the next game after a lapse in concentration from the towering American. 
"The beginning of the match was not good for me and even he had some chances on the return to break. I was in his hands at that moment," Nadal said in a post-match interview.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/italian-open-novak-djokovic-thumps-aslan-karatsev-in-opener-felix-shapovalov-also-advance-ahead-478119">Italian Open: Novak Djokovic thumps Aslan Karatsev in opener; Felix, Shapovalov also advance ahead</a>

"Lucky that he missed those couple of shots. Then I was able to break and then the match changed." 
The second set was no contest as Nadal broke in the opening game to set the tone and he did not look back as Isner ran out of gas. Nadal will play Denis Shapovalov in the next round, against whom he saved two match points in the third round last year en route to his 10th title.

"Last year was a joke, that match I saved here against him. I know how dangerous he is," Nadal added. 
"I need to play well, of course, I need to play better than today. But it`s another victory and now tomorrow again a chance to play against one of the best players of the world." Tsitsipas scraped past Grigor Dimitrov with a 6-3 5-7 7-6(4) win but he was made to toil after the Bulgarian suddenly found his groove in the second set.

Dimitrov broke to love when Tsitsipas was serving for the match and won four straight games to take it to a third set. Dimitrov earned match points at 5-4 and 6-5 in the decider but the Greek fourth seed saved both and forced a tiebreak, where he raced to a 5-0 lead before sealing his progress.

"Incredible fight, I`m extremely happy I was able to overcome this obstacle," Tsitsipas said. "Grigor played really well, gave me a hard time on the court. "The fact that I was able to process all of that and come back stronger in the third set tiebreak, it was such a great way to redeem myself." Second seed Alexander Zverev, who lost in the final in Madrid at the weekend, also advanced to the last-16 after he dispatched Argentine Sebastian Baez 7-6(6) 6-3.

Defending champion Rafa Nadal began his Italian Open campaign with an emphatic 6-3 6-1 victory over big-serving American John Isner to move into the last-16 on Wednesday while Stefanos Tsitsipas saved two match points to advance.

Defending champion Rafa Nadal began his Italian Open campaign with an emphatic 6-3 6-1 victory over big-serving American John Isner to move into the last-16 on Wednesday while Stefanos Tsitsipas saved two match points to advance. Nadal, who returned from a rib injury this month and fell at the quarter-final hurdle in Madrid last week, dominated Isner who struggled to find answers once the Spaniard, seeking his 11th title at Rome`s Foro Italico, hit his stride. Isner leads the ATP Tour with over 450 aces in 2022 but Nadal negated the American`s booming serve by receiving from well behind the baseline -- even on his second serve -- breaking four times and restricting him to just one ace in the match. The match went with serve in the opening set and Isner squandered two break points at 3-3, before Nadal stepped up his game and broke in the next game after a lapse in concentration from the towering American. "The beginning of the match was not good for me and even he had some chances on the return to break. I was in his hands at that moment," Nadal said in a post-match interview. ALSO READ | Italian Open: Novak Djokovic thumps Aslan Karatsev in opener; Felix, Shapovalov also advance ahead "Lucky that he missed those couple of shots. Then I was able to break and then the match changed." The second set was no contest as Nadal broke in the opening game to set the tone and he did not look back as Isner ran out of gas. Nadal will play Denis Shapovalov in the next round, against whom he saved two match points in the third round last year en route to his 10th title. "Last year was a joke, that match I saved here against him. I know how dangerous he is," Nadal added. "I need to play well, of course, I need to play better than today. But it`s another victory and now tomorrow again a chance to play against one of the best players of the world." Tsitsipas scraped past Grigor Dimitrov with a 6-3 5-7 7-6(4) win but he was made to toil after the Bulgarian suddenly found his groove in the second set. Dimitrov broke to love when Tsitsipas was serving for the match and won four straight games to take it to a third set. Dimitrov earned match points at 5-4 and 6-5 in the decider but the Greek fourth seed saved both and forced a tiebreak, where he raced to a 5-0 lead before sealing his progress. "Incredible fight, I`m extremely happy I was able to overcome this obstacle," Tsitsipas said. "Grigor played really well, gave me a hard time on the court. "The fact that I was able to process all of that and come back stronger in the third set tiebreak, it was such a great way to redeem myself." Second seed Alexander Zverev, who lost in the final in Madrid at the weekend, also advanced to the last-16 after he dispatched Argentine Sebastian Baez 7-6(6) 6-3.

Defending champion Rafael Nadal negates John Isner's power to advance in Rome, Stefanos Tsitsipas survives

Stefanos Tsitsipas captured his second straight Monte Carlo Masters crown with a workmanlike 6-3 7-6(3) win over first-time ATP Tour finalist Alejandro Davidovich Fokina on Sunday, claiming his first title of the 2022 season.

Greek world number five Tsitsipas` second Masters 1000 title comes at the perfect time for the 23-year-old, who is hoping to improve on his runner-up finish at last year`s French Open and claim a maiden Grand Slam title this year.

Surprise package Davidovich Fokina, who knocked out top-ranked Novak Djokovic and Indian Wells champion Taylor Fritz in the earlier rounds at Monaco, drew first blood by breaking Tsitsipas to take a 2-1 lead in the opening set.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bhuvneshwar-kumar-becomes-first-indian-fast-bowler-ever-in-ipl-history-to-achieve-massive-feat-471723" hreflang="en">Bhuvneshwar Kumar becomes first Indian fast bowler ever in IPL history to achieve massive feat</a>

But the world number 46 Spaniard surrendered his serve in the next game, allowing Tsitsipas to take control of the contest again and go a set up in only 31 minutes with a near-flawless display on Court Rainier III.

The pair traded breaks again in a see-sawing second set before Tsitsipas pounced in the tiebreak to secure the victory and his eighth career title when Davidovich Fokina failed to deal with a blistering backhand.

The victory helped Tsitsipas join Rafa Nadal as the only active player to win consecutive titles at Monte Carlo, with the likes of Juan Carlos Ferrero, Thomas Muster, Bjorn Borg and Ilie Nastase also achieving the feat during their playing days.

"Remarkable. I`m very proud of myself. Things didn`t seem to be going well at some points but I managed to stay well-composed and kept believing that I can finish this off," Tsitsipas said in a courtside interview.

"I`m proud of the belief I put into my game... Sometimes you doubt yourself but it`s always important to keep your head high.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/billie-jean-king-cup-2022-india-defeat-south-korea-2-1-to-end-their-campaign-on-high-471701" hreflang="en">Billie Jean King Cup 2022: India defeat South Korea 2-1 to end their campaign on high</a>

"He was a difficult opponent. He fought in moments I didn`t really expect him to. He hits incredible winners out of nowhere and played extremely unpredictable, but I was able to minimise that today... I believe this is a great win against him."

Tsitsipas said later that despite his dominant display in Monaco -- where he dropped only one set against Argentine Diego Schwartzman in the quarter-finals -- his mind was not on Roland Garros beginning on May 22.

"We still have Masters 1000 events (Madrid and Rome next month) until then, so I will concentrate on those before the French Open comes along," Tsitsipas said.

Stefanos Tsitsipas captured his second straight Monte Carlo Masters crown with a workmanlike 6-3 7-6(3) win over first-time ATP Tour finalist Alejandro Davidovich Fokina on Sunday, claiming his first title of the 2022 season.

Stefanos Tsitsipas captured his second straight Monte Carlo Masters crown with a workmanlike 6-3 7-6(3) win over first-time ATP Tour finalist Alejandro Davidovich Fokina on Sunday, claiming his first title of the 2022 season. Greek world number five Tsitsipas` second Masters 1000 title comes at the perfect time for the 23-year-old, who is hoping to improve on his runner-up finish at last year`s French Open and claim a maiden Grand Slam title this year. Surprise package Davidovich Fokina, who knocked out top-ranked Novak Djokovic and Indian Wells champion Taylor Fritz in the earlier rounds at Monaco, drew first blood by breaking Tsitsipas to take a 2-1 lead in the opening set. Also read | Bhuvneshwar Kumar becomes first Indian fast bowler ever in IPL history to achieve massive feat But the world number 46 Spaniard surrendered his serve in the next game, allowing Tsitsipas to take control of the contest again and go a set up in only 31 minutes with a near-flawless display on Court Rainier III. The pair traded breaks again in a see-sawing second set before Tsitsipas pounced in the tiebreak to secure the victory and his eighth career title when Davidovich Fokina failed to deal with a blistering backhand. The victory helped Tsitsipas join Rafa Nadal as the only active player to win consecutive titles at Monte Carlo, with the likes of Juan Carlos Ferrero, Thomas Muster, Bjorn Borg and Ilie Nastase also achieving the feat during their playing days. "Remarkable. I`m very proud of myself. Things didn`t seem to be going well at some points but I managed to stay well-composed and kept believing that I can finish this off," Tsitsipas said in a courtside interview. "I`m proud of the belief I put into my game... Sometimes you doubt yourself but it`s always important to keep your head high. Also read | Billie Jean King Cup 2022: India defeat South Korea 2-1 to end their campaign on high "He was a difficult opponent. He fought in moments I didn`t really expect him to. He hits incredible winners out of nowhere and played extremely unpredictable, but I was able to minimise that today... I believe this is a great win against him." Tsitsipas said later that despite his dominant display in Monaco -- where he dropped only one set against Argentine Diego Schwartzman in the quarter-finals -- his mind was not on Roland Garros beginning on May 22. "We still have Masters 1000 events (Madrid and Rome next month) until then, so I will concentrate on those before the French Open comes along," Tsitsipas said.

Stefanos Tsitsipas downs Davidovich Fokina to defend Monte Carlo Masters crown

Holder Stefanos Tsitsipas moved into the Monte Carlo Masters quarterfinals with a 7-5 7-6(1) victory over Laslo Djere on Thursday while fourth seed Casper Ruud was knocked out in straight sets by Grigor Dimitrov.

Tsitsipas broke only once in a match where break points were in short supply but the Greek third seed pounced when it mattered most at the end of both sets to seal victory.

The opening set went with serve but Djere was nearly broken when he was down 5-4 after he made three double faults. Djere held on but Tsitsipas switched gears and broke him in his next service game when the Serbian fired wide on set point.

The second set was nearly identical to the first with just one break point between the two. This time Djere forced a tiebreak, but Tsitsipas was unstoppable as he took the first five points before sealing the match with a forehand winner.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/srh-vs-kkr-ipl-2022-match-prediction-who-will-win-kolkata-knight-riders-vs-sunrisers-hyderabad-clash-471160" hreflang="en">IPL 2022 match prediction: Who will win KKR vs SRH encounter?</a>

"I knew that I was going to have to be alert and 100%, he`s someone that can compete very well on clay... I really had to work hard for this win," Tsitsipas said in an on-court interview.

"The beginning of the tiebreak was very important to get such a good, dynamic start... I was able to dictate those rallies and really get ahead of the game early on." 
Diego Schwartzman stole the show on the day, however, after the Argentine fought back from a set down to beat Lorenzo Musetti 2-6 6-4 6-3, receiving a standing ovation from the crowd after the 2-1/2 hour contest.

Schwartzman was 3-1 down in the second set when he found a second wind and stormed back into the contest, winning 11 of the next 15 games to book a quarter-final clash with Tsitsipas.

Second seed Alexander Zverev fired eight aces and smashed 26 winners to beat Pablo Carreno Busta 6-2 7-5 on the back of a strong first serve.

"On claycourts, especially here where it`s a little slower compared to other claycourts we play on, it`s very important to get that confidence going on your serve," Zverev said.

Zverev will take on Jannik Sinner, who rallied from a set and a break down to upset last year`s finalist Andrey Rublev. The Italian converted seven of his 12 break points and saved six of 10 en route to a 5-7 6-1 6-3 comeback win.

RUUD AWAKENING

Earlier, Norwegian Ruud became the tournament`s latest high-profile casualty as he went down 6-3 7-5 to Bulgarian Dimitrov, who moved into the quarter-finals for a fourth time.

"It`s always tough this week because you`re switching surfaces," Dimitrov said. "So I try and not be too tough on myself in practice. I just try to do the simple things. It`s going so well so far."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sensational-eintracht-frankfurt-beat-fc-barcelona-3-2-to-reach-europa-league-last-four-471165" hreflang="en">Sensational Eintracht Frankfurt beat FC Barcelona 3-2 to reach Europa League last four</a>

Unseeded Spaniard Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, who beat world number one Novak Djokovic earlier this week, reached the last eight with a 6-4 6-1 win over David Goffin. 
He will meet 10th seed Taylor Fritz, who beat doubles partner Sebastian Korda 7-6(4) 7-5 in a battle of Americans.

"I fought off his returns on my second serves, which was the main focus. It was really good conditions today, so I was able to play what I felt was my best match," Fritz said.

Holder Stefanos Tsitsipas moved into the Monte Carlo Masters quarterfinals with a 7-5 7-6(1) victory over Laslo Djere on Thursday while fourth seed Casper Ruud was knocked out in straight sets by Grigor Dimitrov.

Holder Stefanos Tsitsipas moved into the Monte Carlo Masters quarterfinals with a 7-5 7-6(1) victory over Laslo Djere on Thursday while fourth seed Casper Ruud was knocked out in straight sets by Grigor Dimitrov. Tsitsipas broke only once in a match where break points were in short supply but the Greek third seed pounced when it mattered most at the end of both sets to seal victory. The opening set went with serve but Djere was nearly broken when he was down 5-4 after he made three double faults. Djere held on but Tsitsipas switched gears and broke him in his next service game when the Serbian fired wide on set point. The second set was nearly identical to the first with just one break point between the two. This time Djere forced a tiebreak, but Tsitsipas was unstoppable as he took the first five points before sealing the match with a forehand winner. Also read | IPL 2022 match prediction: Who will win KKR vs SRH encounter? "I knew that I was going to have to be alert and 100%, he`s someone that can compete very well on clay... I really had to work hard for this win," Tsitsipas said in an on-court interview. "The beginning of the tiebreak was very important to get such a good, dynamic start... I was able to dictate those rallies and really get ahead of the game early on." Diego Schwartzman stole the show on the day, however, after the Argentine fought back from a set down to beat Lorenzo Musetti 2-6 6-4 6-3, receiving a standing ovation from the crowd after the 2-1/2 hour contest. Schwartzman was 3-1 down in the second set when he found a second wind and stormed back into the contest, winning 11 of the next 15 games to book a quarter-final clash with Tsitsipas. Second seed Alexander Zverev fired eight aces and smashed 26 winners to beat Pablo Carreno Busta 6-2 7-5 on the back of a strong first serve. "On claycourts, especially here where it`s a little slower compared to other claycourts we play on, it`s very important to get that confidence going on your serve," Zverev said. Zverev will take on Jannik Sinner, who rallied from a set and a break down to upset last year`s finalist Andrey Rublev. The Italian converted seven of his 12 break points and saved six of 10 en route to a 5-7 6-1 6-3 comeback win. RUUD AWAKENING Earlier, Norwegian Ruud became the tournament`s latest high-profile casualty as he went down 6-3 7-5 to Bulgarian Dimitrov, who moved into the quarter-finals for a fourth time. "It`s always tough this week because you`re switching surfaces," Dimitrov said. "So I try and not be too tough on myself in practice. I just try to do the simple things. It`s going so well so far." Also read | Sensational Eintracht Frankfurt beat FC Barcelona 3-2 to reach Europa League last four Unseeded Spaniard Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, who beat world number one Novak Djokovic earlier this week, reached the last eight with a 6-4 6-1 win over David Goffin. He will meet 10th seed Taylor Fritz, who beat doubles partner Sebastian Korda 7-6(4) 7-5 in a battle of Americans. "I fought off his returns on my second serves, which was the main focus. It was really good conditions today, so I was able to play what I felt was my best match," Fritz said.

Stefanos Tsitsipas and Alexander Zverev through to Monte Carlo quarters, Casper Ruud ousted

Hubert Hurkacz unleashed 17 aces to topple France's Arthur Rinderknech 7-6(5) 6-2 and keep his title defence going at the Miami Open on Saturday as world number two Daniil Medvedev sent twice winner Andy Murray packing and Naomi Osaka advanced on a walkover.

Rinderknech was unable to convert his sole break point in the first set and lost the momentum altogether after the tiebreak, as the 10th-ranked Pole won the first four games of the second set of their second-round clash.

Reigning U.S. Open champion Medvedev never faced a break and proved too nimble for three-times Grand Slam winner Murray, dropping just two of his first-serve points in the second set as he won 6-4 6-2.

"Playing against Andy is never easy," said Russian Medvedev, who is on a quest to regain his number-one ranking. "Managed to serve well, and I think that was one of the keys today."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/iga-swiatek-set-to-become-polands-first-world-no-1-in-tennis-history-after-win-against-golubic-in-miami-open-465724">Iga Swiatek set to become Poland's first World No. 1 in tennis history after win against Golubic in Miami Open</a>

Japan's Osaka advanced to the fourth round on a walkover after Czech Karolina Muchova withdrew following an injury she sustained during warm-ups.

The four-times Grand Slam champion will next face Alison Riske, who defeated Ann Li 6-2 3-6 6-3 in an all-American clash.

Muchova's was the latest injury to mar the women's field in Miami after Garbine Muguruza and Simona Halep pulled out on Thursday.

TSITSIPAS PULLS AWAY LATE, ALCARAZ GETS FIRST MIAMI WIN

World number five Stefanos Tsitsipas held off strong resistance from American qualifier J.J. Wolf and won 6-4 6-7(5) 6-1.

The Greek, who hit 37 winners, will next face Alex de Minaur who defeated fellow Australian Jordan Thompson 6-2 6-3.

"He's a fighter," Tsitsipas said of de Minaur. "I really hope to bring out the same kind of level that I brought in the third set and maintain that throughout the match."

Spain's 18-year-old Carlos Alcaraz secured his maiden win at the Miami event with a comfortable 6-3 6-2 victory against Marton Fucsovics of Hungary.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/miami-open-former-world-no-1-simona-halep-pulls-out-with-leg-injury-set-to-miss-three-weeks-465454">Miami Open: Former World No. 1 Simona Halep pulls out with leg injury, set to miss three weeks</a>

Fresh from collecting the biggest title of his career at Indian Wells, American Taylor Fritz survived a surprise test from Kazakhstani qualifier Mikhail Kukushkin to win 6-3 5-7 6-3.

Kukushkin put up a strong defence, with eight of 11 break points saved, but struggled against his opponent`s powerful serve, with the 13th-ranked Fritz launching 10 aces.

Fritz drew a picture of the sun and the caption "x 2?" on the on-court camera after the match - a hint that he perhaps was chasing tennis's elusive "sunshine double" of Indian Wells and Miami - but said afterwards that the gesture was intended as a joke.

"I'm not coming here expecting to win the tournament or anything. I'm going into it with the same mentality as Indian Wells," he said in a televised interview. "Take it one match at a time."

Fritz's Indian Wells quarter-final opponent, Serbian Miomir Kecmanovic, dispatched seventh-seeded Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-4 6-2 and Spain's Roberto Bautista Agut moved past Pole Kamil Majchrzak 6-3 6-3.

SHAPOVALOV, KHACHANOV KNOCKED OUT

Canadian Denis Shapovalov lost 6-3 6-4 to Lloyd Harris of South Africa, American Jenson Brooksby defeated Nikoloz Basilashvili 6-3 6-1 and Marin Cilic beat Alexei Popyrin 6-0 6-3.

Karen Khachanov lost 6-4 3-6 7-6(3) to Tommy Paul, Daniel Evans suffered a 3-6 6-4 6-3 defeat by qualifier Yoshihito Nishioka and Cristian Garin was knocked out 7-6(2) 6-2 by Pedro Martinez.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/miami-open-nick-kyrgios-storms-into-second-round-naomi-osaka-wins-first-match-since-heckling-incident-465131">Miami Open: Nick Kyrgios storms into second round, Naomi Osaka wins first match since heckling incident</a>

Aslan Karatsev won 7-5 6-2 against Ugo Humbert and Sebastian Korda beat Albert Ramos-Vinolas 4-6 7-6(3) 6-3.

In the women's field, Australian Open finalist Danielle Collins of the United States beat Vera Zvonareva 6-1 6-4, while Olympic champion Belinda Bencic eased past Britain's Heather Watson 6-4 6-1.

Swiss Bencic, who suffered early exits from Indian Wells earlier this month and Doha in February, launched five aces across the net as Watson struggled on the return and was only able to convert one of eight break points.

In the late contest, Tunisian world number 10 Ons Jabeur defeated Estonia's Kaia Kanepi 6-3 6-0.

Hubert Hurkacz unleashed 17 aces to topple France's Arthur Rinderknech 7-6(5) 6-2 and keep his title defence going at the Miami Open on Saturday as world number two Daniil Medvedev sent twice winner Andy Murray packing and Naomi Osaka advanced on a walkover.

Hubert Hurkacz unleashed 17 aces to topple France's Arthur Rinderknech 7-6(5) 6-2 and keep his title defence going at the Miami Open on Saturday as world number two Daniil Medvedev sent twice winner Andy Murray packing and Naomi Osaka advanced on a walkover. Rinderknech was unable to convert his sole break point in the first set and lost the momentum altogether after the tiebreak, as the 10th-ranked Pole won the first four games of the second set of their second-round clash. Reigning U.S. Open champion Medvedev never faced a break and proved too nimble for three-times Grand Slam winner Murray, dropping just two of his first-serve points in the second set as he won 6-4 6-2. "Playing against Andy is never easy," said Russian Medvedev, who is on a quest to regain his number-one ranking. "Managed to serve well, and I think that was one of the keys today." ALSO READ: Iga Swiatek set to become Poland's first World No. 1 in tennis history after win against Golubic in Miami Open Japan's Osaka advanced to the fourth round on a walkover after Czech Karolina Muchova withdrew following an injury she sustained during warm-ups. The four-times Grand Slam champion will next face Alison Riske, who defeated Ann Li 6-2 3-6 6-3 in an all-American clash. Muchova's was the latest injury to mar the women's field in Miami after Garbine Muguruza and Simona Halep pulled out on Thursday. TSITSIPAS PULLS AWAY LATE, ALCARAZ GETS FIRST MIAMI WIN World number five Stefanos Tsitsipas held off strong resistance from American qualifier J.J. Wolf and won 6-4 6-7(5) 6-1. The Greek, who hit 37 winners, will next face Alex de Minaur who defeated fellow Australian Jordan Thompson 6-2 6-3. "He's a fighter," Tsitsipas said of de Minaur. "I really hope to bring out the same kind of level that I brought in the third set and maintain that throughout the match." Spain's 18-year-old Carlos Alcaraz secured his maiden win at the Miami event with a comfortable 6-3 6-2 victory against Marton Fucsovics of Hungary. ALSO READ: Miami Open: Former World No. 1 Simona Halep pulls out with leg injury, set to miss three weeks Fresh from collecting the biggest title of his career at Indian Wells, American Taylor Fritz survived a surprise test from Kazakhstani qualifier Mikhail Kukushkin to win 6-3 5-7 6-3. Kukushkin put up a strong defence, with eight of 11 break points saved, but struggled against his opponent`s powerful serve, with the 13th-ranked Fritz launching 10 aces. Fritz drew a picture of the sun and the caption "x 2?" on the on-court camera after the match - a hint that he perhaps was chasing tennis's elusive "sunshine double" of Indian Wells and Miami - but said afterwards that the gesture was intended as a joke. "I'm not coming here expecting to win the tournament or anything. I'm going into it with the same mentality as Indian Wells," he said in a televised interview. "Take it one match at a time." Fritz's Indian Wells quarter-final opponent, Serbian Miomir Kecmanovic, dispatched seventh-seeded Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-4 6-2 and Spain's Roberto Bautista Agut moved past Pole Kamil Majchrzak 6-3 6-3. SHAPOVALOV, KHACHANOV KNOCKED OUT Canadian Denis Shapovalov lost 6-3 6-4 to Lloyd Harris of South Africa, American Jenson Brooksby defeated Nikoloz Basilashvili 6-3 6-1 and Marin Cilic beat Alexei Popyrin 6-0 6-3. Karen Khachanov lost 6-4 3-6 7-6(3) to Tommy Paul, Daniel Evans suffered a 3-6 6-4 6-3 defeat by qualifier Yoshihito Nishioka and Cristian Garin was knocked out 7-6(2) 6-2 by Pedro Martinez. ALSO READ: Miami Open: Nick Kyrgios storms into second round, Naomi Osaka wins first match since heckling incident Aslan Karatsev won 7-5 6-2 against Ugo Humbert and Sebastian Korda beat Albert Ramos-Vinolas 4-6 7-6(3) 6-3. In the women's field, Australian Open finalist Danielle Collins of the United States beat Vera Zvonareva 6-1 6-4, while Olympic champion Belinda Bencic eased past Britain's Heather Watson 6-4 6-1. Swiss Bencic, who suffered early exits from Indian Wells earlier this month and Doha in February, launched five aces across the net as Watson struggled on the return and was only able to convert one of eight break points. In the late contest, Tunisian world number 10 Ons Jabeur defeated Estonia's Kaia Kanepi 6-3 6-0.

Miami Open: Hubert Hurkacz on course for title defence, Medvedev topples Murray, Naomi Osaka gets walkover

stefanos-tsitsipas

Stefanos Tsitsipas, News on Stefanos Tsitsipas, stories on Stefanos Tsitsipas, articles on Stefanos Tsitsipas, Stefanos Tsitsipas stories at Wion, Stefanos Tsitsipas news, Stefanos Tsitsipas latest news

stefanos tsitsipas