Russian seventh seed Andrey Rublev beat American Taylor Fritz 6-4 6-3 on Friday to reach his first Madrid Open final where he will face Felix Auger-Aliassime.

The Canadian advanced after the Czech Republic's Jiri Lehecka pulled out injured midway through the first set of their semi-final.

Rublev, the highest seed left in the tournament at the semi-final stage, survived an early wobble to see off the 12th seed, and was all smiles after his straight-sets win, and will now be favourite to claim his second title of the year.

Fritz broke serve in the opening game, with the Russian showing early signs of frustration, but Rublev composed himself to break back immediately and ended the set winning two games to love to take the opener.

The second set went with serve until Rublev broke to lead 4-2 and it ended in a similar vein to the first, this time the Russian winning his final two service games to love, closing the gap in their head-to-head record, with four wins and five losses.

Rublev came into the tournament on a four-match losing streak, but has eased into the final, knocking out second seed Carlos Alcaraz on the way, and will face unseeded Canadian Auger-Aliassime for the title on Sunday.

The 23-year-old Canadian progressed past Lehecka in the other semi-final on Friday after the Czech 30th seed was forced to retire injured with a suspected back injury.

Lehecka asked for a medical timeout with the first set locked at 3-3 and attempted to continue the match after returning onto the court, until he went down in the following game. Visibly in pain, he was unable to carry on.

Lehecka joined an unfortunate list of players who were forced to pull out from the Madrid tournament, with world number four Daniil Medvedev ending his match against Lehecka early on Thursday as he withdrew with a groin issue after the first set.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-carlos-alcaraz-withdraws-from-atp-italian-open-with-arm-injury-717738">Tennis: Carlos Alcaraz withdraws from ATP Italian Open with arm injury</a>

For Auger-Aliassime, who became the first Canadian to reach an ATP Masters 1000 final on clay, it was the third time in five matches that he has benefited from a withdrawal or walkover.

Jakub Mensik retired from their last 32 clash early into the second set before Jannik Sinner pulled out before their quarter-final due to a hip injury.

"It's crazy. I don't know if it's ever happened to a player before. It's a weird situation to be in," Auger-Aliassime said in his on-court interview.

"I couldn't believe what was happening when I saw his back failed him and blocked on him. I feel really bad for him... We can all imagine what it feels like to come out on a night like this hoping to win and go through.

"I have a lot of empathy for Jiri. For me, I can't do anything but try to prepare for Sunday."

Russian seventh seed Andrey Rublev beat American Taylor Fritz 6-4 6-3 on Friday to reach his first Madrid Open final where he will face Felix Auger-Aliassime. The Canadian advanced after the Czech Republic's Jiri Lehecka pulled out injured midway through the first set of their semi-final.

Russian seventh seed Andrey Rublev beat American Taylor Fritz 6-4 6-3 on Friday to reach his first Madrid Open final where he will face Felix Auger-Aliassime. The Canadian advanced after the Czech Republic's Jiri Lehecka pulled out injured midway through the first set of their semi-final. Rublev, the highest seed left in the tournament at the semi-final stage, survived an early wobble to see off the 12th seed, and was all smiles after his straight-sets win, and will now be favourite to claim his second title of the year. Fritz broke serve in the opening game, with the Russian showing early signs of frustration, but Rublev composed himself to break back immediately and ended the set winning two games to love to take the opener. The second set went with serve until Rublev broke to lead 4-2 and it ended in a similar vein to the first, this time the Russian winning his final two service games to love, closing the gap in their head-to-head record, with four wins and five losses. Rublev came into the tournament on a four-match losing streak, but has eased into the final, knocking out second seed Carlos Alcaraz on the way, and will face unseeded Canadian Auger-Aliassime for the title on Sunday. The 23-year-old Canadian progressed past Lehecka in the other semi-final on Friday after the Czech 30th seed was forced to retire injured with a suspected back injury. Lehecka asked for a medical timeout with the first set locked at 3-3 and attempted to continue the match after returning onto the court, until he went down in the following game. Visibly in pain, he was unable to carry on. Lehecka joined an unfortunate list of players who were forced to pull out from the Madrid tournament, with world number four Daniil Medvedev ending his match against Lehecka early on Thursday as he withdrew with a groin issue after the first set. ALSO READ: Tennis: Carlos Alcaraz withdraws from ATP Italian Open with arm injury For Auger-Aliassime, who became the first Canadian to reach an ATP Masters 1000 final on clay, it was the third time in five matches that he has benefited from a withdrawal or walkover. Jakub Mensik retired from their last 32 clash early into the second set before Jannik Sinner pulled out before their quarter-final due to a hip injury. "It's crazy. I don't know if it's ever happened to a player before. It's a weird situation to be in," Auger-Aliassime said in his on-court interview. "I couldn't believe what was happening when I saw his back failed him and blocked on him. I feel really bad for him... We can all imagine what it feels like to come out on a night like this hoping to win and go through. "I have a lot of empathy for Jiri. For me, I can't do anything but try to prepare for Sunday."

Tennis: Rublev beats Fritz to reach Madrid Open final, faces Auger-Aliassime for title

On Tuesday (Jan 23), world number one Novak Djokovic continued his merry run in the Australian Open as he went past American star Taylor Fritz, 7-6 (7-3), 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, to enter the semifinals of the ongoing 2024 edition at Melbourne Park. With this, the Serbian became the first semifinalist in the men's singles at this edition.&nbsp;

The clash began on a promising note. Djokovic has already lost a few sets in this edition and was about to concede the opening set to Fritz but&nbsp;in the tiebreaker, he brought in all his experience to win 7-6 (7-3). In the following set, the 26-year-old Fritz gave him a tough run and won 6-4 with the game firmly in the balance. From thereon, Djokovic's dominance began as he controlled second half of the contest.&nbsp;

The Serbian looked in his elements and went past Fritz in the third set, winning 6-2, without dropping much sweat. The fourth and penultimate set saw Djokovic win 6-3 to proceed ahead in the competition.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/coco-gauff-grinds-past-unseeded-marta-kostyuk-into-australian-open-semifinals-682744">Coco Gauff grinds past unseeded Marta Kostyuk into Australian Open semifinals</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/nepals-star-cricketer-sandeep-lamichhane-jailed-for-eight-years-for-rape-678703/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Djokovic will face the winner of Italy's Jannik Sinner versus Andrey Rublev, in the second quarterfinal, in the semis on Thursday (Jan 25).

Other quarter-finals:

Q2: Jannik Sinner vs Andrey Rublev 
Q3: Daniil Medvedev vs Hubert Hurkacz 
Q4: Carlos Alcaraz vs Alexander Zverev

Djokovic is eyeing his record 11th title at the Australian Open. He already has most Aus Open titles (10) and also holds the record for most Grand Slam titles in men's singles (24) as well. The Serb will look to extend his tally with another triumph Down Under this year.

On Tuesday (Jan 23), world number one Novak Djokovic continued his merry run in the Australian Open as he went past American star Taylor Fritz, 7-6 (7-3), 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, to enter the semifinals of the ongoing 2024 edition at Melbourne Park.

On Tuesday (Jan 23), world number one Novak Djokovic continued his merry run in the Australian Open as he went past American star Taylor Fritz, 7-6 (7-3), 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, to enter the semifinals of the ongoing 2024 edition at Melbourne Park. With this, the Serbian became the first semifinalist in the men's singles at this edition. The clash began on a promising note. Djokovic has already lost a few sets in this edition and was about to concede the opening set to Fritz but in the tiebreaker, he brought in all his experience to win 7-6 (7-3). In the following set, the 26-year-old Fritz gave him a tough run and won 6-4 with the game firmly in the balance. From thereon, Djokovic's dominance began as he controlled second half of the contest. The Serbian looked in his elements and went past Fritz in the third set, winning 6-2, without dropping much sweat. The fourth and penultimate set saw Djokovic win 6-3 to proceed ahead in the competition. Also read: Coco Gauff grinds past unseeded Marta Kostyuk into Australian Open semifinals × Djokovic will face the winner of Italy's Jannik Sinner versus Andrey Rublev, in the second quarterfinal, in the semis on Thursday (Jan 25). Other quarter-finals: Q2: Jannik Sinner vs Andrey Rublev Q3: Daniil Medvedev vs Hubert Hurkacz Q4: Carlos Alcaraz vs Alexander Zverev Djokovic is eyeing his record 11th title at the Australian Open. He already has most Aus Open titles (10) and also holds the record for most Grand Slam titles in men's singles (24) as well. The Serb will look to extend his tally with another triumph Down Under this year.

Australian Open 2024: World number one Novak Djokovic storms into semifinals with win over Taylor Fritz

American 12th seed Taylor Fritz dumped last year's Australian Open runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas out of the tournament on Sunday to set up a quarter-final with defending champion Novak Djokovic.

There was little to separate them in the opening two sets but Fritz stepped up a gear to beat the Greek seventh seed 7-6 (7/3), 5-7, 6-3, 6-3 in a shade over three hours.

He said the key was "just trusting my shots" and that he had served well throughout.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-novak-djokovic-thrashes-20th-seed-adrian-mannarino-in-straight-sets-to-book-qf-berth-681967">Novak Djokovic thrashes 20th seed Adrian Mannarino in straight sets to book QF berth</a>

Fritz trails&nbsp;Djokovic 8-0 in head-to-heads, but he said he had improved and was relishing another battle against the top seed.

"The times I have played him I haven't brought my best level and you need to if you are going to complete with someone like Djokovic," he said.

A tight first set, in which neither player broke serve, went to a tie-break, where Fritz quickly edged ahead and did not relinquish his lead.

The second set went with serve until the 11th game, when Tsitsipas broke, going on to take the set 7-5.

Fritz broke twice in the third set to edge ahead and repeated the feat in the fourth set, winning the last four games to claim victory.

<h2>Sabalenka in quarters</h2>

Defending women's champion&nbsp;Sabalenka&nbsp;has been in imperious form and was in complete charge against unseeded Amanda Anisimova on Margaret Court Arena, sweeping past the American 6-3, 6-2.

Fourth seed Coco Gauff, attempting to become the first woman to back up a US Open title with a Grand Slam win in Australia since Naomi Osaka in 2018-19, has been almost as impressive.

She swatted aside Poland's unseeded Magdalena Frech 6-1, 6-2 in just 63 minutes on Rod Laver Arena, with the 85-year-tennis legend watching from the stands.

"It was an honour to play in front of you, so thank you for coming to my match," said 19-year-old Gauff, who had never progressed beyond the fourth round at Melbourne Park in four previous attempts.

"First Aussie quarter-final. Super happy to be in this position and be here.... It's cool to get over that hump."

She will next meet Ukraine's Marta Kostyuk, who beat Russian qualifier Maria Timofeeva 6-2, 6-1.

With seven of the women's top 10 seeds knocked out in the first week, including world number one Iga Swiatek, both Gauff and&nbsp;Sabalenka&nbsp;have a glorious chance to win their second major major title.

They are on the same side of the draw and will not meet in the final, with a potential last-four clash looming instead.

Sabalenka&nbsp;has dropped just 11 games in four matches and is favoured to win another title to go with her breakthrough Grand Slam crown last year.

Should she go all the way, the 25-year-old will be the first woman to retain the title since compatriot Victoria Azarenka completed the feat in 2013.

"I'm getting stronger because I enjoy the atmosphere and I really want to stay here as long as I can till the very last day," she said.

Her next opponent will be unseeded Russian 16-year-old Mirra Andreeva or ninth seed Barbora Krejcikova.

If Andreeva keeps her dream run going, she will become the youngest woman to reach the Melbourne Park quarter-finals since Martina Hingis in 1997, a player she has often been compared to.

American 12th seed Taylor Fritz dumped last year's Australian Open runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas out of the tournament on Sunday to set up a quarter-final with defending champion Novak Djokovic.

American 12th seed Taylor Fritz dumped last year's Australian Open runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas out of the tournament on Sunday to set up a quarter-final with defending champion Novak Djokovic. There was little to separate them in the opening two sets but Fritz stepped up a gear to beat the Greek seventh seed 7-6 (7/3), 5-7, 6-3, 6-3 in a shade over three hours. He said the key was "just trusting my shots" and that he had served well throughout. Also Read: Novak Djokovic thrashes 20th seed Adrian Mannarino in straight sets to book QF berth Fritz trails Djokovic 8-0 in head-to-heads, but he said he had improved and was relishing another battle against the top seed. "The times I have played him I haven't brought my best level and you need to if you are going to complete with someone like Djokovic," he said. A tight first set, in which neither player broke serve, went to a tie-break, where Fritz quickly edged ahead and did not relinquish his lead. The second set went with serve until the 11th game, when Tsitsipas broke, going on to take the set 7-5. Fritz broke twice in the third set to edge ahead and repeated the feat in the fourth set, winning the last four games to claim victory. Sabalenka in quarters Defending women's champion Sabalenka has been in imperious form and was in complete charge against unseeded Amanda Anisimova on Margaret Court Arena, sweeping past the American 6-3, 6-2. Fourth seed Coco Gauff, attempting to become the first woman to back up a US Open title with a Grand Slam win in Australia since Naomi Osaka in 2018-19, has been almost as impressive. She swatted aside Poland's unseeded Magdalena Frech 6-1, 6-2 in just 63 minutes on Rod Laver Arena, with the 85-year-tennis legend watching from the stands. "It was an honour to play in front of you, so thank you for coming to my match," said 19-year-old Gauff, who had never progressed beyond the fourth round at Melbourne Park in four previous attempts. "First Aussie quarter-final. Super happy to be in this position and be here.... It's cool to get over that hump." She will next meet Ukraine's Marta Kostyuk, who beat Russian qualifier Maria Timofeeva 6-2, 6-1. With seven of the women's top 10 seeds knocked out in the first week, including world number one Iga Swiatek, both Gauff and Sabalenka have a glorious chance to win their second major major title. They are on the same side of the draw and will not meet in the final, with a potential last-four clash looming instead. Sabalenka has dropped just 11 games in four matches and is favoured to win another title to go with her breakthrough Grand Slam crown last year. Should she go all the way, the 25-year-old will be the first woman to retain the title since compatriot Victoria Azarenka completed the feat in 2013. "I'm getting stronger because I enjoy the atmosphere and I really want to stay here as long as I can till the very last day," she said. Her next opponent will be unseeded Russian 16-year-old Mirra Andreeva or ninth seed Barbora Krejcikova. If Andreeva keeps her dream run going, she will become the youngest woman to reach the Melbourne Park quarter-finals since Martina Hingis in 1997, a player she has often been compared to.

Australian Open: Taylor Fritz downs Stefanos Tsitsipas to set up quarterfinal against Novak Djokovic

Defending champion Taylor&nbsp;Fritz&nbsp;won his Japan Open first-round match on Tuesday (Oct 17) and said he felt "motivated and ready to play" after lightening his load ahead of the tournament. The American has been one of the busiest players on the ATP Tour this season but he has taken his foot off the gas since the US Open, appearing in only the Laver Cup and Shanghai Masters.

He beat Britain's Cameron Norrie 6-4, 6-3 to kick off the defence of his Tokyo title and said it was "probably an advantage that I might be less burnt-out".

After the US Open, I think I had played the most matches of anyone on tour," said&nbsp;Fritz, the number one seed in Tokyo. "I thought it made sense to start the Asia swing in Shanghai. I feel motivated and ready to play."&nbsp;World number 10&nbsp;Fritz&nbsp;beat fellow American Frances Tiafoe in last year's Japan Open final and has won six career titles.

He is the highest-ranked American in the world and overcame an early setback to dispatch Norrie in his Tokyo opener.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rugby-all-blacks-ardie-savea-opens-up-on-joining-kobe-steelers-in-japan-league-665132">Rugby: All Blacks' Ardie Savea opens up on joining Kobe Steelers in Japan league</a>

"I was holding easily and then out of nowhere he broke me, so it was a tough spot to be in," said&nbsp;Fritz.

"I feel like I played a couple of really good points to break and I played the bigger, more important points better in the return games.

"I definitely upped my level."

Fritz&nbsp;was joined in the next round by American Ben Shelton, who beat Japan's Taro Daniel 3-6, 6-4, 7-6 (7/2). Australia's number four seed Alex de Minaur also progressed with a 4-6, 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (7/1) win over Britain's Jack Draper.

Australia's Alexei Popyrin eliminated Russian number seven seed Karen Khachanov 6-4, 6-2.

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>.

Defending champion Taylor Fritz won his Japan Open first-round match on Tuesday (Oct 17) and said he felt "motivated and ready to play" after lightening his load ahead of the tournament.

Defending champion Taylor Fritz won his Japan Open first-round match on Tuesday (Oct 17) and said he felt "motivated and ready to play" after lightening his load ahead of the tournament. The American has been one of the busiest players on the ATP Tour this season but he has taken his foot off the gas since the US Open, appearing in only the Laver Cup and Shanghai Masters. He beat Britain's Cameron Norrie 6-4, 6-3 to kick off the defence of his Tokyo title and said it was "probably an advantage that I might be less burnt-out". After the US Open, I think I had played the most matches of anyone on tour," said Fritz, the number one seed in Tokyo. "I thought it made sense to start the Asia swing in Shanghai. I feel motivated and ready to play." World number 10 Fritz beat fellow American Frances Tiafoe in last year's Japan Open final and has won six career titles. He is the highest-ranked American in the world and overcame an early setback to dispatch Norrie in his Tokyo opener. Also Read: Rugby: All Blacks' Ardie Savea opens up on joining Kobe Steelers in Japan league "I was holding easily and then out of nowhere he broke me, so it was a tough spot to be in," said Fritz. "I feel like I played a couple of really good points to break and I played the bigger, more important points better in the return games. "I definitely upped my level." Fritz was joined in the next round by American Ben Shelton, who beat Japan's Taro Daniel 3-6, 6-4, 7-6 (7/2). Australia's number four seed Alex de Minaur also progressed with a 4-6, 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (7/1) win over Britain's Jack Draper. Australia's Alexei Popyrin eliminated Russian number seven seed Karen Khachanov 6-4, 6-2. 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: Taylor Fritz starts Japan Open defence with win against Cameron Norrie

On Tuesday (September 05), Novak Djokovic emerged on top of Taylor Fritz in the quarter-finals of the US Open 2023. The Serbian went past the American with a scoreline of 6-1, 6-4, 6-4 and the win marked a significant milestone for the former world number one Djokovic. The win has propelled the 36-year-old to his 47th Grand Slam semi-final, surpassing the record previously held by Swiss maestro Roger Federer.&nbsp;

However, there was a moment in the match when Djokovic lost his cool on a spectator. During a live volley with Fritz, a spectator yelled 'Out!' which disrupted the Serbian's concentration, leading him to concede the point. Thus, this was not well received by Djokovic and the veteran made his displeasure known as he requested the fan to be escorted out of the Arthur Ashe Stadium.&nbsp;

Here's the video of the entire incident from the quarter-final face-off between Djokovic and Fritz:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A fan just yelled “Out!” while Novak Djokovic &amp; Taylor Fritz were playing a point. 
 
Fans that do this should be kicked out immediately &amp; don’t deserve a 2nd chance. 
 
Beyond disrespectful to both players. <a href="https://t.co/SNaIuGEL3C">pic.twitter.com/SNaIuGEL3C</a>
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheTennisLetter/status/1699154826373071220?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 5, 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 spectator surely disrupted Djokovic's flow with a needless shout as not only did the Serbian lose the breakpoint but the entire game. However, he still sailed past Fritz in straight sets to march ahead to the semi-finals, where he will face Ben Shelton on September 09.&nbsp;

Djokovic joked that he asked his friends to have a word with the spectator. "He was actually in the box where some of my friends were. I don’t know who the guy was; but yeah, I was pretty annoyed by him at that point. I was communicating with my friends to have a little chat with him,” Djokovic laughed.

“I’m actually glad the crowd wants to get into it, because it means the match is interesting, that they want to be part of it, that they’re having fun. At the end of the day, they pay to come and watch you play, so we try to put on a show. Sometimes [they] might have an interaction with the player, like this guy. I’m sorry for him, but he was really annoying at that point," he added. 
 
&nbsp;

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>.

On Tuesday (September 05), Novak Djokovic emerged on top of Taylor Fritz in the quarter-finals of the US Open 2023. The Serbian went past the American with a scoreline of 6-1, 6-4, 6-4 and the win marked a significant milestone for the former world number one Djokovic.

On Tuesday (September 05), Novak Djokovic emerged on top of Taylor Fritz in the quarter-finals of the US Open 2023. The Serbian went past the American with a scoreline of 6-1, 6-4, 6-4 and the win marked a significant milestone for the former world number one Djokovic. The win has propelled the 36-year-old to his 47th Grand Slam semi-final, surpassing the record previously held by Swiss maestro Roger Federer. However, there was a moment in the match when Djokovic lost his cool on a spectator. During a live volley with Fritz, a spectator yelled 'Out!' which disrupted the Serbian's concentration, leading him to concede the point. Thus, this was not well received by Djokovic and the veteran made his displeasure known as he requested the fan to be escorted out of the Arthur Ashe Stadium. Here's the video of the entire incident from the quarter-final face-off between Djokovic and Fritz: A fan just yelled “Out!” while Novak Djokovic & Taylor Fritz were playing a point. Fans that do this should be kicked out immediately & don’t deserve a 2nd chance. Beyond disrespectful to both players. pic.twitter.com/SNaIuGEL3C — The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) September 5, 2023 × The spectator surely disrupted Djokovic's flow with a needless shout as not only did the Serbian lose the breakpoint but the entire game. However, he still sailed past Fritz in straight sets to march ahead to the semi-finals, where he will face Ben Shelton on September 09. Djokovic joked that he asked his friends to have a word with the spectator. "He was actually in the box where some of my friends were. I don’t know who the guy was; but yeah, I was pretty annoyed by him at that point. I was communicating with my friends to have a little chat with him,” Djokovic laughed. “I’m actually glad the crowd wants to get into it, because it means the match is interesting, that they want to be part of it, that they’re having fun. At the end of the day, they pay to come and watch you play, so we try to put on a show. Sometimes [they] might have an interaction with the player, like this guy. I’m sorry for him, but he was really annoying at that point," he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tennis: Djokovic loses cool after a spectator yells 'out' during Taylor Fritz face-off in US Open - Watch

Novak Djokovic powered into a record 47th Grand Slam semi-final on Tuesday with a 6-1, 6-4, 6-4 win over American ninth seed Taylor Fritz at the US Open.

Djokovic continues his push for a record-extending men's 24th Grand Slam title in the last four against another home player, either 10th seed Frances Tiafoe or the up-and-coming Ben Shelton.

The 36-year-old Djokovic is through to the semi-finals in New York for the 13th time and is now 12-0 against Americans at the US Open.

"It's a huge opportunity every single time I step out onto the court at this age, at this stage of my life," said Djokovic, who broke the mark he shared with Roger Federer for most major semi-final appearances.&nbsp;

"I don't know how many more opportunities I'll get so I'm trying to enjoy it as much as I can."

"I've played so many times on this court, so many epic matches. I can't wait for another in a few days' time," added the three-time US Open champion.

He made it eight wins in as many matches with Fritz, who had pushed Djokovic to five sets in their previous Grand Slam meeting but barely made a dent in the Serbian star's armoury Tuesday.

Djokovic saved a break point in the first game but swiftly gained control on a sweltering afternoon, with the roof partially closed on Arthur Ashe Stadium to shield the players from the sun.

Fritz had lost just serve just once through four rounds en route to his first US Open quarter-final, but Djokovic broke him three times in succession to pocket the first set with ease.

Fritz, whose mother Kathy May reached the last eight here in 1978, finally held to start the second set, only briefly slowing Djokovic's charge.

Djokovic again broke for a 2-1 cushion and foiled Fritz the following game when the American generated four break points but was unable to penetrate his rival's ironclad defences.

The early break sufficed for Djokovic to surge two sets in front as he hammered an ace on set point.

Fritz had another whiff at 15-40 on Djokovic's serve in the sixth game of the third set, his inability to capitalise growing even costlier when the Serbian broke to edge closer to the finish line.

Fritz hit right back when an agitated Djokovic speared a forehand wide, but a woefully loose next game from the American spelled the end of the road as Djokovic eventually served out for victory.

You can&nbsp;now write for&nbsp;wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

<main>
<section>
WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" data-gtm-yt-inspected-20="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-25="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-32="true" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="lazy" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=0" title="live tv" width="100%"></iframe>
</section>
</main>

Novak Djokovic powered into a record 47th Grand Slam semi-final on Tuesday with a 6-1, 6-4, 6-4 win over American ninth seed Taylor Fritz at the US Open. Djokovic continues his push for a record-extending men's 24th Grand Slam title in the last four against another home player, either 10th seed Frances Tiafoe or the up-and-coming Ben Shelton.

Novak Djokovic powered into a record 47th Grand Slam semi-final on Tuesday with a 6-1, 6-4, 6-4 win over American ninth seed Taylor Fritz at the US Open. Djokovic continues his push for a record-extending men's 24th Grand Slam title in the last four against another home player, either 10th seed Frances Tiafoe or the up-and-coming Ben Shelton. The 36-year-old Djokovic is through to the semi-finals in New York for the 13th time and is now 12-0 against Americans at the US Open. "It's a huge opportunity every single time I step out onto the court at this age, at this stage of my life," said Djokovic, who broke the mark he shared with Roger Federer for most major semi-final appearances. "I don't know how many more opportunities I'll get so I'm trying to enjoy it as much as I can." "I've played so many times on this court, so many epic matches. I can't wait for another in a few days' time," added the three-time US Open champion. He made it eight wins in as many matches with Fritz, who had pushed Djokovic to five sets in their previous Grand Slam meeting but barely made a dent in the Serbian star's armoury Tuesday. Djokovic saved a break point in the first game but swiftly gained control on a sweltering afternoon, with the roof partially closed on Arthur Ashe Stadium to shield the players from the sun. Fritz had lost just serve just once through four rounds en route to his first US Open quarter-final, but Djokovic broke him three times in succession to pocket the first set with ease. Fritz, whose mother Kathy May reached the last eight here in 1978, finally held to start the second set, only briefly slowing Djokovic's charge. Djokovic again broke for a 2-1 cushion and foiled Fritz the following game when the American generated four break points but was unable to penetrate his rival's ironclad defences. The early break sufficed for Djokovic to surge two sets in front as he hammered an ace on set point. Fritz had another whiff at 15-40 on Djokovic's serve in the sixth game of the third set, his inability to capitalise growing even costlier when the Serbian broke to edge closer to the finish line. Fritz hit right back when an agitated Djokovic speared a forehand wide, but a woefully loose next game from the American spelled the end of the road as Djokovic eventually served out for victory. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US Open 2023: Djokovic into record 47th Grand Slam semi-final

Defending champion Borna Coric battled past American Sebastian Korda 7-6(5) 6-4 in the Cincinnati Open first round on Tuesday, as Taylor Fritz survived a first-set thriller to beat Czech Jiri Lehecka 7-6(14) 6-2. Croatian Coric crashed out in Toronto in the first round earlier this month but produced a pristine performance in Cincinnati with few unforced errors, wrapping up the match that began on Monday but was suspended due to bad weather.

Korda, who has suffered a handful of early exits since reaching the Queen's Club semi-finals, appeared to have the edge as he converted a break point in the third game. But 15th seed Coric levelled in the sixth and mounted a fine defence to rally from a 4-1 deficit in the tiebreak.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-to-boycott-2024-paris-olympics-if-russians-are-allowed-to-compete-pm-625787">Ukraine to boycott 2024 Paris Olympics if Russians are allowed to compete: PM</a>

He won the critical break point in the third game of the second set, where he dropped only one first-serve point as Korda's level declined across the board, and pumped his fist as he closed the affair with an unreturnable serve. Coric next faces either Australian Thanasi Kokkinakis or Poland's Hubert Hurkacz, who were set to play later on Tuesday.

Earlier on Tuesday, top American Fritz mustered all of his resources in an epic 30-point first set tiebreak with Lehecka. The Monte Carlo semi-finalist saved five set points in the tense and closely fought first set, where he produced fewer unforced errors to get the upper hand. The momentum belonged to Fritz in the second set, though, when he never faced a break point and won all but one of his first-serve points.

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>.

Defending champion Borna Coric battled past American Sebastian Korda 7-6(5) 6-4 in the Cincinnati Open first round on Tuesday, as Taylor Fritz survived a first-set thriller to beat Czech Jiri Lehecka 7-6(14) 6-2.

Defending champion Borna Coric battled past American Sebastian Korda 7-6(5) 6-4 in the Cincinnati Open first round on Tuesday, as Taylor Fritz survived a first-set thriller to beat Czech Jiri Lehecka 7-6(14) 6-2. Croatian Coric crashed out in Toronto in the first round earlier this month but produced a pristine performance in Cincinnati with few unforced errors, wrapping up the match that began on Monday but was suspended due to bad weather. Korda, who has suffered a handful of early exits since reaching the Queen's Club semi-finals, appeared to have the edge as he converted a break point in the third game. But 15th seed Coric levelled in the sixth and mounted a fine defence to rally from a 4-1 deficit in the tiebreak. Also read: Ukraine to boycott 2024 Paris Olympics if Russians are allowed to compete: PM He won the critical break point in the third game of the second set, where he dropped only one first-serve point as Korda's level declined across the board, and pumped his fist as he closed the affair with an unreturnable serve. Coric next faces either Australian Thanasi Kokkinakis or Poland's Hubert Hurkacz, who were set to play later on Tuesday. Earlier on Tuesday, top American Fritz mustered all of his resources in an epic 30-point first set tiebreak with Lehecka. The Monte Carlo semi-finalist saved five set points in the tense and closely fought first set, where he produced fewer unforced errors to get the upper hand. The momentum belonged to Fritz in the second set, though, when he never faced a break point and won all but one of his first-serve points. 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: Holder Borna Coric beats Sebastian Korda in Cincinnati opener, Taylor Fritz outlasts Jiri Lehecka

American Taylor Fritz won an entertaining three-hour battle against Andy Murray 6-7(2) 6-3 6-4 in their rain-delayed match on Friday in Washington, D.C., and will face Jordan Thompson in the quarter-finals in the evening session.

The veteran Scot overcame an early break of serve in the marathon first set to force a tiebreak that was dominated by the three-time major champion.

The American top seed broke again early in the second set, which was enough to seal the set and stretch the contest into a decider.

In the tight third set, Fritz took advantage of a sloppy service game from Murray to arrive on the doorstep of victory at 5-4. But Murray was not done and threatened to level when he jumped ahead 0-40 in the next game.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/usa-gymnast-simone-biles-prepares-for-return-for-first-time-since-tokyo-games-622546">USA gymnast Simone Biles prepares for return for first time since Tokyo Games</a>

Fritz, who crushed 17 aces, managed to serve his way out of trouble and hit a lovely lunging volley to set up match point, which he converted with a cross-court forehand winner.

The match showcased not only both players' raw power but also their versatility, with each deploying deft drop shots at critical times, often leading to entertaining rallies on a hot and humid day.

Play was halted at one point by climate change protesters who threw large tennis balls with flames printed on them onto the court and unfurled banners calling on tournament sponsors Mubadala and Citi to stop funding the fossil fuel industry.

The winner of the Fritz-Thompson match will face Tallon Griekspoor for the place in the final after the Dutch player overwhelmed American J.J. Wolf 7-5 6-4.

<h2>Tiafoe advances</h2>

Hometown hero Frances Tiafoe, who grew up in the D.C. metropolitan area, beat 18-year-old qualifier Shang Juncheng 6-2 6-3.

Tiafoe rifled a forehand passing shot on match point and raised his arms to pump up the adoring crowd after notching the win.

The second-seeded Tiafoe will face Dan Evans in a quarter-final later on Friday after the Briton beat Russia's Alexander Shevchenko 6-4 6-3.

The winner will take on Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov, who reached the semi-finals without hitting a ball after he was handed a walkover by Frenchman Ugo Humbert.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

American Taylor Fritz won an entertaining three-hour battle against Andy Murray 6-7(2) 6-3 6-4 in their rain-delayed match on Friday in Washington, D.C., and will face Jordan Thompson in the quarter-finals in the evening session.

American Taylor Fritz won an entertaining three-hour battle against Andy Murray 6-7(2) 6-3 6-4 in their rain-delayed match on Friday in Washington, D.C., and will face Jordan Thompson in the quarter-finals in the evening session. The veteran Scot overcame an early break of serve in the marathon first set to force a tiebreak that was dominated by the three-time major champion. The American top seed broke again early in the second set, which was enough to seal the set and stretch the contest into a decider. In the tight third set, Fritz took advantage of a sloppy service game from Murray to arrive on the doorstep of victory at 5-4. But Murray was not done and threatened to level when he jumped ahead 0-40 in the next game. ALSO READ: USA gymnast Simone Biles prepares for return for first time since Tokyo Games Fritz, who crushed 17 aces, managed to serve his way out of trouble and hit a lovely lunging volley to set up match point, which he converted with a cross-court forehand winner. The match showcased not only both players' raw power but also their versatility, with each deploying deft drop shots at critical times, often leading to entertaining rallies on a hot and humid day. Play was halted at one point by climate change protesters who threw large tennis balls with flames printed on them onto the court and unfurled banners calling on tournament sponsors Mubadala and Citi to stop funding the fossil fuel industry. The winner of the Fritz-Thompson match will face Tallon Griekspoor for the place in the final after the Dutch player overwhelmed American J.J. Wolf 7-5 6-4. Tiafoe advances Hometown hero Frances Tiafoe, who grew up in the D.C. metropolitan area, beat 18-year-old qualifier Shang Juncheng 6-2 6-3. Tiafoe rifled a forehand passing shot on match point and raised his arms to pump up the adoring crowd after notching the win. The second-seeded Tiafoe will face Dan Evans in a quarter-final later on Friday after the Briton beat Russia's Alexander Shevchenko 6-4 6-3. The winner will take on Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov, who reached the semi-finals without hitting a ball after he was handed a walkover by Frenchman Ugo Humbert. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Citi Open: Taylor Fritz edges Andy Murray to seal quarters berth in Washington

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 nine Taylor Fritz battled past Italian Matteo Berrettini with a powerhouse performance to steer the United States to the inaugural mixed teams United Cup title in Sydney on Sunday. Frances Tiafoe and Jessica Pegula both won their singles rubbers to give their country a 2-0 lead with Fritz delivering victory by winning 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (8/6). Madison Keys made it a clean-sweep 4-0 with a 6-3, 6-2 win over Lucia Bronzetti.

"It's amazing for the team to win this event, we came in with really high hopes," said Fritz. "Really happy to be in the position to clinch the match. The emotions when you win are amazing.

"We had a lot of team bonding this week," he added. "When we combine the guys and girls from the US we are so deep through the rankings it just makes team so much stronger."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fa-cup-defending-champions-liverpool-held-to-a-2-2-draw-by-wolves-spurs-advances-550466">FA CUP: Defending champions Liverpool held to a 2-2 draw by Wolves; Spurs advances</a>

The dominant United States crushed the Iga Swiatek-led Poland 5-0 to make the decider of the new tournament -- which began with 18 nations playing round robin matches in Perth, Brisbane and Sydney -- while Italy outgunned Stefanos Tsitsipas's Greece 4-1.

Fritz constantly put pressure on the Berrettini serve, earning four break points on his first two service games, but all were saved. Despite the American being in charge from the baseline, it went to a first set tiebreak where he got two decisive early breaks to move 3-0 ahead before closing out the set.

Fritz again created a series of break points in the second set, but Berrettini hung on and it again went to a tiebreak where he once more prevailed.

Women's world number three Pegula, who burst into the top 10 in 2022 by winning the WTA 1000 Guadalajara tournament, stormed home 6-4, 6-2 against Martina Trevisan.

"Definitely very relieved, first match of the day, first match of the final," said Pegula.

"Martina is playing great, she's a fighter, I feel like she's thriving on the atmosphere with the fans and her team and really hard to beat someone like that.

"Glad I was able to play well enough to get the win."

World number nine Taylor Fritz battled past Italian Matteo Berrettini with a powerhouse performance to steer the United States to the inaugural mixed teams United Cup title in Sydney on Sunday.

World number nine Taylor Fritz battled past Italian Matteo Berrettini with a powerhouse performance to steer the United States to the inaugural mixed teams United Cup title in Sydney on Sunday. Frances Tiafoe and Jessica Pegula both won their singles rubbers to give their country a 2-0 lead with Fritz delivering victory by winning 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (8/6). Madison Keys made it a clean-sweep 4-0 with a 6-3, 6-2 win over Lucia Bronzetti. "It's amazing for the team to win this event, we came in with really high hopes," said Fritz. "Really happy to be in the position to clinch the match. The emotions when you win are amazing. "We had a lot of team bonding this week," he added. "When we combine the guys and girls from the US we are so deep through the rankings it just makes team so much stronger." ALSO READ: FA CUP: Defending champions Liverpool held to a 2-2 draw by Wolves; Spurs advances The dominant United States crushed the Iga Swiatek-led Poland 5-0 to make the decider of the new tournament -- which began with 18 nations playing round robin matches in Perth, Brisbane and Sydney -- while Italy outgunned Stefanos Tsitsipas's Greece 4-1. Fritz constantly put pressure on the Berrettini serve, earning four break points on his first two service games, but all were saved. Despite the American being in charge from the baseline, it went to a first set tiebreak where he got two decisive early breaks to move 3-0 ahead before closing out the set. Fritz again created a series of break points in the second set, but Berrettini hung on and it again went to a tiebreak where he once more prevailed. Women's world number three Pegula, who burst into the top 10 in 2022 by winning the WTA 1000 Guadalajara tournament, stormed home 6-4, 6-2 against Martina Trevisan. "Definitely very relieved, first match of the day, first match of the final," said Pegula. "Martina is playing great, she's a fighter, I feel like she's thriving on the atmosphere with the fans and her team and really hard to beat someone like that. "Glad I was able to play well enough to get the win."

United Cup 2023: USA's Taylor Fritz beats Italian Matteo Berrettini to steer America to maiden title

Taylor Fritz propelled the United States into the final of the United Cup with a tenacious 7-6(5) 7-6(5) victory over Poland's Hubert Hurkacz before they completed a 5-0 sweep in the $15 million mixed tournament on Saturday. The red-hot Americans made a strong start to the semi-final having gone ahead 2-0 on Friday after Jessica Pegula and Frances Tiafoe scored convincing victories and world number nine Fritz held his nerve to finish the job against Hurkacz.

The Indian Wells champion Fritz saved two set points while down 5-4 in the opening set as Hurkacz faltered and the American took the lead in the match when his opponent made another error at the end of a tight tiebreak. Fritz, who won 88% of his first-serve points, needed a big serve to hold for 6-5 in the second set before claiming the win in another tense tiebreak to send his side through to a title clash with either Italy or Greece.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-undergoes-knee-surgery-in-mumbai-out-for-6-9-months-likely-to-miss-world-cup-doctors-550247">Rishabh Pant undergoes knee surgery, out for 6-9 months; likely to miss World Cup - Doctors</a>

"It was great to get the win today to get us through. I had no doubt that if I were to lose that the rest of the team would have come through," Fritz said. "But I've played with Team U.S. a lot. I think it's a huge advantage this time having the girls on our team because it just makes the whole team so much stronger.

"I'm super excited going into the final and I think we've been the favourites all week."

Madison Keys then beat Magda Linette 6-4 6-2 to make it 4-0 before Fritz and Pegula rallied from a set down to win the mixed doubles rubber against Lukasz Kubot and Alicja Rosolska 6-7(5) 6-4 10-6 for a clean sweep.

Italy lead their semi-final against Greece 2-0 after Martina Trevisan and Lorenzo Musetti won their matches on Friday. Matteo Berrettini can book their place in the final with a victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas in the evening session.

The final takes place in Sydney on Sunday.

Taylor Fritz propelled the United States into the final of the United Cup with a tenacious 7-6(5) 7-6(5) victory over Poland's Hubert Hurkacz before they completed a 5-0 sweep in the $15 million mixed tournament on Saturday.

Taylor Fritz propelled the United States into the final of the United Cup with a tenacious 7-6(5) 7-6(5) victory over Poland's Hubert Hurkacz before they completed a 5-0 sweep in the $15 million mixed tournament on Saturday. The red-hot Americans made a strong start to the semi-final having gone ahead 2-0 on Friday after Jessica Pegula and Frances Tiafoe scored convincing victories and world number nine Fritz held his nerve to finish the job against Hurkacz. The Indian Wells champion Fritz saved two set points while down 5-4 in the opening set as Hurkacz faltered and the American took the lead in the match when his opponent made another error at the end of a tight tiebreak. Fritz, who won 88% of his first-serve points, needed a big serve to hold for 6-5 in the second set before claiming the win in another tense tiebreak to send his side through to a title clash with either Italy or Greece. ALSO READ: Rishabh Pant undergoes knee surgery, out for 6-9 months; likely to miss World Cup - Doctors "It was great to get the win today to get us through. I had no doubt that if I were to lose that the rest of the team would have come through," Fritz said. "But I've played with Team U.S. a lot. I think it's a huge advantage this time having the girls on our team because it just makes the whole team so much stronger. "I'm super excited going into the final and I think we've been the favourites all week." Madison Keys then beat Magda Linette 6-4 6-2 to make it 4-0 before Fritz and Pegula rallied from a set down to win the mixed doubles rubber against Lukasz Kubot and Alicja Rosolska 6-7(5) 6-4 10-6 for a clean sweep. Italy lead their semi-final against Greece 2-0 after Martina Trevisan and Lorenzo Musetti won their matches on Friday. Matteo Berrettini can book their place in the final with a victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas in the evening session. The final takes place in Sydney on Sunday.

United Cup 2023: Team USA enter finals by beating Poland, to face either of Greece or Italy on Sunday

World number nine American tennis star Taylor Fritz has pointed out that if players on the ATP tour come out as gay, they should be openly accepted. In recent times, a&nbsp;number of tennis players -- both current and former, on the WTA tour --&nbsp;have not shied away from talking about their homosexuality. However, there isn't much openness in this regard&nbsp;with players on the ATP.&nbsp; Thus, the 25-year-old Fritz feels that the male players may be hesitant in coming out in the open due to the&nbsp;attention that comes with it.

"I'm not sure if there are homosexual tennis players in the top 100. Statistically speaking, there should be. ... I think it is odd, because I feel like a player would be accepted. I and my friends, other players on tour wouldn't have any issues with it, it would be totally normal and I think people would be accepting," Fritz was quoted as saying in an interview with Clay.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spurs-manager-antonio-conte-is-unhappy-with-premier-league-beginning-a-week-after-the-world-cup-546502">Spurs manager Antonio Conte is 'unhappy' with Premier League beginning a week after the World Cup</a>

"I couldn't tell you why (no one has came out). That would be a lot of big news and maybe people just don't want to be in the spotlight, maybe they don't want the distraction of getting all the attention and stuff like that," he added.

Earlier in 2022, an ATP Tour&nbsp;survey was carried out which indicated that a whopping 75% of the players had heard others use homophobic slurs. The Tour, hence, associated with You Can Play, an organisation that works for&nbsp;LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports. In addition, the survey mentioned&nbsp;a "strong fear of rejection, isolation from others on tour, and loneliness".&nbsp;

One can only hope, just like Fritz, that there is&nbsp;more acceptance for gay players all across the globe with each passing year.

World number nine American tennis star Taylor Fritz has pointed out that if players on the ATP tour come out as gay, they should be openly accepted. In recent times, a number of tennis players -- both current and former, on the WTA tour -- have not shied away from talking about their homosexuality.

World number nine American tennis star Taylor Fritz has pointed out that if players on the ATP tour come out as gay, they should be openly accepted. In recent times, a number of tennis players -- both current and former, on the WTA tour -- have not shied away from talking about their homosexuality. However, there isn't much openness in this regard with players on the ATP. Thus, the 25-year-old Fritz feels that the male players may be hesitant in coming out in the open due to the attention that comes with it. "I'm not sure if there are homosexual tennis players in the top 100. Statistically speaking, there should be. ... I think it is odd, because I feel like a player would be accepted. I and my friends, other players on tour wouldn't have any issues with it, it would be totally normal and I think people would be accepting," Fritz was quoted as saying in an interview with Clay. Also read: Spurs manager Antonio Conte is 'unhappy' with Premier League beginning a week after the World Cup "I couldn't tell you why (no one has came out). That would be a lot of big news and maybe people just don't want to be in the spotlight, maybe they don't want the distraction of getting all the attention and stuff like that," he added. Earlier in 2022, an ATP Tour survey was carried out which indicated that a whopping 75% of the players had heard others use homophobic slurs. The Tour, hence, associated with You Can Play, an organisation that works for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports. In addition, the survey mentioned a "strong fear of rejection, isolation from others on tour, and loneliness". One can only hope, just like Fritz, that there is more acceptance for gay players all across the globe with each passing year.

Totally normal: American star Taylor Fritz feels openly gay player 'would be accepted' on ATP Tour

American Taylor Fritz outlasted Felix Auger-Aliassime in three sets and Rafa&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;avoided matching his worst-ever losing sequence with a 7-5 7-5 victory over Norway's Casper Ruud in round-robin play at the ATP Finals on Thursday. In a clash of tournament debutantes neither Fritz nor Auger-Aliassime could make inroads on the other's serve but in the first set tiebreaker, the Canadian's normally solid backhand began to misfire and a forehand error put Fritz out ahead. The players remained on serve in the second to bring about another breaker that Fritz appeared to have in hand while leading 4-2. But an errant ball toss produced Fritz's first double fault and shifted momentum in favour of Auger-Aliassime, who pumped his fist after slapping a crosscourt winner to force a deciding set.

The key game of the match came with Fritz leading 3-2 in the third when he finally got his first looks at break points, converting his fourth opportunity when Auger-Aliassime pulled a forehand wide. Fritz rolled from there, holding to love to consolidate the break and jumping in the air when Auger-Aliassime pushed a backhand out on match point, his 36th unforced error.

"It was tough, no one really had any chances early on," Fritz said after his 7-6(4) 6-7(5) 6-2 win. "I had to just not get frustrated, had to reset. I felt going into the third that a break was coming." Fritz will face Novak Djokovic in the semi-finals. Nadal&nbsp;had already been eliminated from semi-final contention when he walked on court in Turin after back-to-back straight-sets defeats in the Green Group by Fritz and Auger-Aliassime. But the Spaniard was clearly eager not to end a season that began in such spectacular fashion by succumbing to a fifth successive defeat -- something the 36-year-old had not experienced since before his career took off in 2004-05.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-tour-announces-mammoth-increase-in-prize-money-for-2023-season-535056">ATP Tour announces mammoth increase in prize money for 2023 season</a>

The first set was full of intensity inside the Pala Alpitour where the afternoon crowd were firmly behind&nbsp;Nadal. Nadal&nbsp;fought off two break points at 4-4 in the opening set as Ruud threatened but after that the Mallorcan found the range on his forehand. The 23-year-old Ruud went down 0-40 on serve at 5-6 and world number two&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;needed just one chance to seal the set, punching away a volley into an empty court. It was a similar story in the second set with nothing between the players until&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;pounced again in the 12th game. Ruud saved one match point but&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;clubbed away a backhand winner to finish his season on a high.

"I've been practising well but just not had enough matches to be at the level I need to be, not enough confidence after six tough months,"&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;said. "At least I finished with a positive victory which is important." Ruud still advanced to the semi-finals but is now 0-8 against opponents ranked in the top three.

American Taylor Fritz outlasted Felix Auger-Aliassime in three sets and Rafa Nadal avoided matching his worst-ever losing sequence with a 7-5 7-5 victory over Norway's Casper Ruud in round-robin play at the ATP Finals on Thursday.

American Taylor Fritz outlasted Felix Auger-Aliassime in three sets and Rafa Nadal avoided matching his worst-ever losing sequence with a 7-5 7-5 victory over Norway's Casper Ruud in round-robin play at the ATP Finals on Thursday. In a clash of tournament debutantes neither Fritz nor Auger-Aliassime could make inroads on the other's serve but in the first set tiebreaker, the Canadian's normally solid backhand began to misfire and a forehand error put Fritz out ahead. The players remained on serve in the second to bring about another breaker that Fritz appeared to have in hand while leading 4-2. But an errant ball toss produced Fritz's first double fault and shifted momentum in favour of Auger-Aliassime, who pumped his fist after slapping a crosscourt winner to force a deciding set. The key game of the match came with Fritz leading 3-2 in the third when he finally got his first looks at break points, converting his fourth opportunity when Auger-Aliassime pulled a forehand wide. Fritz rolled from there, holding to love to consolidate the break and jumping in the air when Auger-Aliassime pushed a backhand out on match point, his 36th unforced error. "It was tough, no one really had any chances early on," Fritz said after his 7-6(4) 6-7(5) 6-2 win. "I had to just not get frustrated, had to reset. I felt going into the third that a break was coming." Fritz will face Novak Djokovic in the semi-finals. Nadal had already been eliminated from semi-final contention when he walked on court in Turin after back-to-back straight-sets defeats in the Green Group by Fritz and Auger-Aliassime. But the Spaniard was clearly eager not to end a season that began in such spectacular fashion by succumbing to a fifth successive defeat -- something the 36-year-old had not experienced since before his career took off in 2004-05. Also read: ATP Tour announces mammoth increase in prize money for 2023 season The first set was full of intensity inside the Pala Alpitour where the afternoon crowd were firmly behind Nadal. Nadal fought off two break points at 4-4 in the opening set as Ruud threatened but after that the Mallorcan found the range on his forehand. The 23-year-old Ruud went down 0-40 on serve at 5-6 and world number two Nadal needed just one chance to seal the set, punching away a volley into an empty court. It was a similar story in the second set with nothing between the players until Nadal pounced again in the 12th game. Ruud saved one match point but Nadal clubbed away a backhand winner to finish his season on a high. "I've been practising well but just not had enough matches to be at the level I need to be, not enough confidence after six tough months," Nadal said. "At least I finished with a positive victory which is important." Ruud still advanced to the semi-finals but is now 0-8 against opponents ranked in the top three.

ATP Finals: Taylor Fritz reaches semi-finals, Spaniard Rafael Nadal signs off with win

Taylor Fritz stunned Rafa&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;7-6(3) 6-1 to make a winning debut at the ATP Finals in Turin while Norway's Casper Ruud kick-started the round-robin stage earlier on Sunday with a win over Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime. Spanish top seed&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;arrived in Italy having only competed in one singles match since his fourth-round U.S. Open loss two months ago and his lack of recent competition showed as he was unable to keep pace with Fritz as the match wore on.

"I need more matches to play at this kind of level, even if I am practising well, much better than how I am competing, without a doubt. That's normal,"&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;told reporters. "At the end is not the ideal tournament and probably part of the season to come back after a couple of months without being on the tour because you don't have time to get confidence."

Nadal&nbsp;grabbed a 6-5 lead in the opening set when he held to love for a fifth time but then lost the opening three points of the tiebreaker and could not find his way back. After neither player dropped serve in the first set, Fritz broke early in the second for a 3-1 lead and again to pull ahead 5-1 before closing out the match on his next service game when&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;sent a forehand long. "Once I got through that first set I just wanted to do the same thing I was doing for the second set: take care of my serve and just look to capitalise on the break points when I got them," Fritz said in his on-court interview.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/casper-ruud-downs-debutant-felix-auger-aliassime-in-atp-finals-opener-533817">Casper Ruud downs debutant Felix Auger-Aliassime in ATP Finals opener</a>

"I knew coming out here this was going to be a big match if I want to make it out of the group, it's a really important one." For Fritz, the victory marked his first over a top-three opponent in 12 attempts and improved him to 2-2 in head-to-head meetings with&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;having beaten him at Indian Wells in March. Canadian Auger-Aliassime has been in sublime form at the end of the season, winning three tournaments in a row before a semi-final run at the Paris Masters, but was not at his best while falling 7-6(4) 6-4 to Ruud.

Although he fired 26 winners past world number four Ruud, they were offset by 26 unforced errors as the Norwegian wrapped up the victory to get on the board in the Green Group, which also has&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;and Fritz. "I think this is some of the best level that I've played since the U.S. Open," said Ruud, who reached the final of the year's last Grand Slam in New York. "The last couple of months have been a little bit of a struggle, I have to honestly say that, but you have to accept it as well. You will face difficult moments in your career, and maybe these last couple of months was one of those."

Auger-Aliassime had won 16 matches in a row to win titles in Florence, Antwerp and Basel last month. But Ruud, a semi-finalist last year, stamped his authority in the tiebreak and did not face a single break point in the match as he beat the Canadian for the second time this year

Taylor Fritz stunned Rafa Nadal 7-6(3) 6-1 to make a winning debut at the ATP Finals in Turin while Norway's Casper Ruud kick-started the round-robin stage earlier on Sunday with a win over Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime.

Taylor Fritz stunned Rafa Nadal 7-6(3) 6-1 to make a winning debut at the ATP Finals in Turin while Norway's Casper Ruud kick-started the round-robin stage earlier on Sunday with a win over Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime. Spanish top seed Nadal arrived in Italy having only competed in one singles match since his fourth-round U.S. Open loss two months ago and his lack of recent competition showed as he was unable to keep pace with Fritz as the match wore on. "I need more matches to play at this kind of level, even if I am practising well, much better than how I am competing, without a doubt. That's normal," Nadal told reporters. "At the end is not the ideal tournament and probably part of the season to come back after a couple of months without being on the tour because you don't have time to get confidence." Nadal grabbed a 6-5 lead in the opening set when he held to love for a fifth time but then lost the opening three points of the tiebreaker and could not find his way back. After neither player dropped serve in the first set, Fritz broke early in the second for a 3-1 lead and again to pull ahead 5-1 before closing out the match on his next service game when Nadal sent a forehand long. "Once I got through that first set I just wanted to do the same thing I was doing for the second set: take care of my serve and just look to capitalise on the break points when I got them," Fritz said in his on-court interview. ALSO READ | Casper Ruud downs debutant Felix Auger-Aliassime in ATP Finals opener "I knew coming out here this was going to be a big match if I want to make it out of the group, it's a really important one." For Fritz, the victory marked his first over a top-three opponent in 12 attempts and improved him to 2-2 in head-to-head meetings with Nadal having beaten him at Indian Wells in March. Canadian Auger-Aliassime has been in sublime form at the end of the season, winning three tournaments in a row before a semi-final run at the Paris Masters, but was not at his best while falling 7-6(4) 6-4 to Ruud. Although he fired 26 winners past world number four Ruud, they were offset by 26 unforced errors as the Norwegian wrapped up the victory to get on the board in the Green Group, which also has Nadal and Fritz. "I think this is some of the best level that I've played since the U.S. Open," said Ruud, who reached the final of the year's last Grand Slam in New York. "The last couple of months have been a little bit of a struggle, I have to honestly say that, but you have to accept it as well. You will face difficult moments in your career, and maybe these last couple of months was one of those." Auger-Aliassime had won 16 matches in a row to win titles in Florence, Antwerp and Basel last month. But Ruud, a semi-finalist last year, stamped his authority in the tiebreak and did not face a single break point in the match as he beat the Canadian for the second time this year

Taylor Fritz stuns Rafael Nadal in straight sets at ATP Finals

Ninth seed Taylor Fritz kept his hopes of qualifying for the season-ending ATP Finals alive when he was among four Americans to record straight sets victories at the Paris Masters on Monday to move into the second round. Fritz, the highest-seeded American in the draw beat Alejandro Davidovich Fokina 7-5 6-2 on the back of a decent first serve despite trailing by a break in the opening set.

Fritz hit only 11 winners to the Spaniard's 20 but he converted five break points to wrap up the match in 90 minutes to beat Davidovich Fokina for the first time in three meetings. "Really happy, he's a tough person to play against. He's got weapons on both sides, he's extremely quick as well, so there's nowhere you can really play with a lot of safety," Fritz said. "He makes a lot of crazy shots and he's beaten me the past two times."

Fritz needs to reach the final to have any chance of sealing a place in the ATP Finals in Turin ahead of Andrey Rublev or Felix Auger-Aliassime, who has won his last three tournaments. "Turin is still in the picture, obviously, but there's not much else I really could have done. I won Tokyo," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/iga-swiatek-confused-disappointed-by-simona-haleps-failed-drugs-test-529610">Iga Swiatek confused, disappointed by Simona Halep's failed drugs test</a>

"Felix has played really, really well, so he deserves it, but I am going to try to steal his spot this week for sure." Fellow American John Isner can remove one hurdle in the form of Rublev after he booked a place in the second round against the Russian with a 6-4 7-6(3) win over Germany's Oscar Otte. The towering 37-year-old Isner, who finished runner-up to Andy Murray in 2016, fired 19 aces in the contest to wrap things up in 82 minutes.

French wildcard Gilles Simon battled back from a set down to beat Britain's Andy Murray 4-6 7-5 6-3. Frances Tiafoe also moved into the second round without conceding a break point with a 6-4 6-4 win over Lorenzo Sonego while fellow American Maxime Cressy ousted Argentine Diego Schwartzman 6-3 6-3.

In a mixed day for the Italians, Lorenzo Musetti beat Marin Cilic in straight sets to advance but 11th seed Jannik Sinner was knocked out by Swiss qualifier Marc-Andrea Huesler who is ranked 49 places below him. Defending champion Novak Djokovic, world number one Carlos Alcaraz, Rafa Nadal and Daniil Medvedev are among the main seeds who received a bye into the second round.

Ninth seed Taylor Fritz kept his hopes of qualifying for the season-ending ATP Finals alive when he was among four Americans to record straight sets victories at the Paris Masters on Monday to move into the second round.

Ninth seed Taylor Fritz kept his hopes of qualifying for the season-ending ATP Finals alive when he was among four Americans to record straight sets victories at the Paris Masters on Monday to move into the second round. Fritz, the highest-seeded American in the draw beat Alejandro Davidovich Fokina 7-5 6-2 on the back of a decent first serve despite trailing by a break in the opening set. Fritz hit only 11 winners to the Spaniard's 20 but he converted five break points to wrap up the match in 90 minutes to beat Davidovich Fokina for the first time in three meetings. "Really happy, he's a tough person to play against. He's got weapons on both sides, he's extremely quick as well, so there's nowhere you can really play with a lot of safety," Fritz said. "He makes a lot of crazy shots and he's beaten me the past two times." Fritz needs to reach the final to have any chance of sealing a place in the ATP Finals in Turin ahead of Andrey Rublev or Felix Auger-Aliassime, who has won his last three tournaments. "Turin is still in the picture, obviously, but there's not much else I really could have done. I won Tokyo," he added. ALSO READ | Iga Swiatek confused, disappointed by Simona Halep's failed drugs test "Felix has played really, really well, so he deserves it, but I am going to try to steal his spot this week for sure." Fellow American John Isner can remove one hurdle in the form of Rublev after he booked a place in the second round against the Russian with a 6-4 7-6(3) win over Germany's Oscar Otte. The towering 37-year-old Isner, who finished runner-up to Andy Murray in 2016, fired 19 aces in the contest to wrap things up in 82 minutes. French wildcard Gilles Simon battled back from a set down to beat Britain's Andy Murray 4-6 7-5 6-3. Frances Tiafoe also moved into the second round without conceding a break point with a 6-4 6-4 win over Lorenzo Sonego while fellow American Maxime Cressy ousted Argentine Diego Schwartzman 6-3 6-3. In a mixed day for the Italians, Lorenzo Musetti beat Marin Cilic in straight sets to advance but 11th seed Jannik Sinner was knocked out by Swiss qualifier Marc-Andrea Huesler who is ranked 49 places below him. Defending champion Novak Djokovic, world number one Carlos Alcaraz, Rafa Nadal and Daniil Medvedev are among the main seeds who received a bye into the second round.

Ninth-seed Taylor Fritz leads American quartet into Paris Masters second round

At one stage, Rafael Nadal for a while thought he might not be able to finish the quarter-final against Taylor Fritz but he yet again proved why is he regarded as one of the greatest there ever will be with a performance to remember despite being in a considerable amount of pain on the court. Nadal fought through the pain to defeat Fritz in an epic five-set thriller at the Wimbledon 2022 on Monday (July 06) to storm into the semi-final.

The indomitable Spaniard once again left the spectators in awe of his remarkable grit and determination to pull off a sensational victory in a gruelling contest which last four hours and 21 minutes. Nadal defeated&nbsp;&nbsp;3-6 7-5 3-6 7-5 7-6(4) to enter the last four at Wimbledon, making it his third Grand Slam semi-final appearance in a row this year.

He has been absolutely unstoppable right from the start of the year and has continued his magnificent run at Wimbledon 2022. After clinching the Australian Open and the French Open, Nadal's chase of an elusive 23rd Grand Slam continues at Wimbledon as he now stands just a couple of steps away from scripting history by winning a hat-trick of Grand Slams this year.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
"For a lot of moments I was thinking maybe I will not be able to finish the match" 
 
The mentality of a champion who never quits<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Wimbledon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Wimbledon</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CentreCourt100?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CentreCourt100</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> <a href="https://t.co/PEKGN1R9fU">pic.twitter.com/PEKGN1R9fU</a>
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) <a href="https://twitter.com/Wimbledon/status/1544756968870772736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 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>

His quest for a calendar year Grand Slam is also on with the thrilling victory over Fritz which is arguably one of his best performances of the year. Nadal didn't have the ideal start in the quarter-final clash against Fritz as the American clinched the opening set comfortably to create pressure on the Spaniard.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indomitable-rafael-nadal-defeats-taylor-fritz-in-five-set-thriller-to-enter-wimbledon-2022-semi-final-495094">Nick Kyrgios defeats Cristian Garin to storm into his first Wimbledon semi-final</a>

However, Nadal remained unfazed despite opting for a medical time-out during the second set for an abdominal issue. He was asked by his father to not continue but the 22-time Grand Slam champion, who remains one of the fiercest competitors in the history of the sport, came back to find his way through pain and misery as he showcased his class against the American.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Just <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> things 
 
The champion comes back to defeat Taylor Fritz in a five-set epic, 3-6, 7-5, 3-6, 7-5, 7-6(4)<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Wimbledon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Wimbledon</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CentreCourt100?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CentreCourt100</a> <a href="https://t.co/G7Luqy8lSH">pic.twitter.com/G7Luqy8lSH</a>
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) <a href="https://twitter.com/Wimbledon/status/1544752212832055296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 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>

Nadal took the second set 7-5 but that didn't deter Fritz, who was absolutely on top of his game and was not letting the Spaniard take control of the proceedings. With Nadal struggling to serve due to his injury, Fritz clinched the third set before Nadal broke the American's serve a third time to win the fourth set forcing the quarter-final into a decider.

The deciding fifth set was forced into a 10-point deciding tie-breaker after an epic battle between the duo on the Centre Court but it was Nadal who came out on top at the end clinching the tie-breaker 10-4. Nadal will now face Australian Nick Kyrgios in the much-awaited semi-final on Thursday (July 07).

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/simona-halep-demolishes-amanda-anisimova-to-reach-wimbledon-2022-semi-finals-495041">Simona Halep demolishes Amanda Anisimova to reach Wimbledon 2022 semi-finals</a>

It was a draining contest for both as the duo gave their all with Nadal admitting after his win that it wasn't an easy match at all. He also spoke about his injury and said at one stage it felt like he might not be able to complete the match but managed to do so at the end.

“From my personal side, it was not an easy match at all.&nbsp; So just very happy to be in the semi-finals, that’s all. The body in general [is] fine. Of course in the abdominal something is not going well, being honest. So yeah, I had to find a way to serve a little bit different," said Nadal.

“In a lot of moments I was thinking maybe I will not be able to finish the match but I don’t know: the court, the energy something else," he added, thanking the supporters.

At one stage, Rafael Nadal for a while thought he might not be able to finish the quarter-final against Taylor Fritz but he yet again proved why is he regarded as one of the greatest there ever will be with a performance to remember despite being in a considerable amount of pain on the court.

At one stage, Rafael Nadal for a while thought he might not be able to finish the quarter-final against Taylor Fritz but he yet again proved why is he regarded as one of the greatest there ever will be with a performance to remember despite being in a considerable amount of pain on the court. Nadal fought through the pain to defeat Fritz in an epic five-set thriller at the Wimbledon 2022 on Monday (July 06) to storm into the semi-final. The indomitable Spaniard once again left the spectators in awe of his remarkable grit and determination to pull off a sensational victory in a gruelling contest which last four hours and 21 minutes. Nadal defeated 3-6 7-5 3-6 7-5 7-6(4) to enter the last four at Wimbledon, making it his third Grand Slam semi-final appearance in a row this year. He has been absolutely unstoppable right from the start of the year and has continued his magnificent run at Wimbledon 2022. After clinching the Australian Open and the French Open, Nadal's chase of an elusive 23rd Grand Slam continues at Wimbledon as he now stands just a couple of steps away from scripting history by winning a hat-trick of Grand Slams this year. "For a lot of moments I was thinking maybe I will not be able to finish the match" The mentality of a champion who never quits#Wimbledon | #CentreCourt100 | @RafaelNadal pic.twitter.com/PEKGN1R9fU — Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 6, 2022 × His quest for a calendar year Grand Slam is also on with the thrilling victory over Fritz which is arguably one of his best performances of the year. Nadal didn't have the ideal start in the quarter-final clash against Fritz as the American clinched the opening set comfortably to create pressure on the Spaniard. Also Read: Nick Kyrgios defeats Cristian Garin to storm into his first Wimbledon semi-final However, Nadal remained unfazed despite opting for a medical time-out during the second set for an abdominal issue. He was asked by his father to not continue but the 22-time Grand Slam champion, who remains one of the fiercest competitors in the history of the sport, came back to find his way through pain and misery as he showcased his class against the American. Just @RafaelNadal things The champion comes back to defeat Taylor Fritz in a five-set epic, 3-6, 7-5, 3-6, 7-5, 7-6(4)#Wimbledon | #CentreCourt100 pic.twitter.com/G7Luqy8lSH — Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 6, 2022 × Nadal took the second set 7-5 but that didn't deter Fritz, who was absolutely on top of his game and was not letting the Spaniard take control of the proceedings. With Nadal struggling to serve due to his injury, Fritz clinched the third set before Nadal broke the American's serve a third time to win the fourth set forcing the quarter-final into a decider. The deciding fifth set was forced into a 10-point deciding tie-breaker after an epic battle between the duo on the Centre Court but it was Nadal who came out on top at the end clinching the tie-breaker 10-4. Nadal will now face Australian Nick Kyrgios in the much-awaited semi-final on Thursday (July 07). Also Read: Simona Halep demolishes Amanda Anisimova to reach Wimbledon 2022 semi-finals It was a draining contest for both as the duo gave their all with Nadal admitting after his win that it wasn't an easy match at all. He also spoke about his injury and said at one stage it felt like he might not be able to complete the match but managed to do so at the end. “From my personal side, it was not an easy match at all. So just very happy to be in the semi-finals, that’s all. The body in general [is] fine. Of course in the abdominal something is not going well, being honest. So yeah, I had to find a way to serve a little bit different," said Nadal. “In a lot of moments I was thinking maybe I will not be able to finish the match but I don’t know: the court, the energy something else," he added, thanking the supporters.

Indomitable Rafael Nadal defeats Taylor Fritz in five-set thriller to enter Wimbledon 2022 semi-final

Rafael Nadal hasn't had anything easy so far in the Wimbledon 2022 edition. While he dropped a set each during his first two wins, he was at his best in the next two rounds, beating his oppositions in straight sets. However, the 36-year-old Spaniard was once again stretched by American youngster Taylor Fritz in the quarter-finals match in Wimbledon 2022 on Wednesday (July 06).&nbsp;

Nadal won the game eventually, which lasted for more than four hours, but was seen in pain throughout the contest. During his&nbsp;3-6 7-5 3-6 7-5 7-6(4) victory over Fritz, Nadal was seen struggling physically during the second set. In a clip that has surfaced on social media, Nadal's father and sister can be seen asking him to withdraw from the contest.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Sebastian Nadal telling his son Rafael to quit? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Wimbledon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Wimbledon</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Nadal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Nadal</a> <a href="https://t.co/L0LiJQQttY">pic.twitter.com/L0LiJQQttY</a>
— Simon Häring (@_shaering) <a href="https://twitter.com/_shaering/status/1544704370612264962?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 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/injured-rafal-nadal-unsure-if-he-can-play-wimbedon-semis-against-nick-kyrgios-495142">Injured Rafael Nadal unsure if he can play Wimbledon semis against Nick Kyrgios</a>

After the match, Nadal heaped praise on Fritz and said, "It was a tough afternoon against a great player. All the credit to Taylor, he has been playing great during the whole season. From my personal side, it was not an easy match at all, so I'm just very happy to be in the semi-finals. The body, in general, is fine. In the abdominal [area] it is not going well, to be honest. I had to find a way to serve a little bit differently, for a lot of moments I was thinking maybe I would not be able to finish the match, but I don't know. The court, the energy [helped me]."

Nadal, however, remains unsure if he can turn up for his mouth-watering semi-final match versus Australia's Nick Krygios. "I don`t know," th veteran&nbsp;said when asked about his chances of playing the unseeded Kyrgios.

"Honestly, I can`t give you a clear answer because if I gave you a clear answer and tomorrow another thing happens, I will be a liar."

Rafael Nadal hasn't had anything easy so far in the Wimbledon 2022 edition. While he dropped a set each during his first two wins, he was at his best in the next two rounds, beating his oppositions in straight sets.

Rafael Nadal hasn't had anything easy so far in the Wimbledon 2022 edition. While he dropped a set each during his first two wins, he was at his best in the next two rounds, beating his oppositions in straight sets. However, the 36-year-old Spaniard was once again stretched by American youngster Taylor Fritz in the quarter-finals match in Wimbledon 2022 on Wednesday (July 06). Nadal won the game eventually, which lasted for more than four hours, but was seen in pain throughout the contest. During his 3-6 7-5 3-6 7-5 7-6(4) victory over Fritz, Nadal was seen struggling physically during the second set. In a clip that has surfaced on social media, Nadal's father and sister can be seen asking him to withdraw from the contest. Sebastian Nadal telling his son Rafael to quit? #Wimbledon #Nadal pic.twitter.com/L0LiJQQttY — Simon Häring (@_shaering) July 6, 2022 × ALSO READ | Injured Rafael Nadal unsure if he can play Wimbledon semis against Nick Kyrgios After the match, Nadal heaped praise on Fritz and said, "It was a tough afternoon against a great player. All the credit to Taylor, he has been playing great during the whole season. From my personal side, it was not an easy match at all, so I'm just very happy to be in the semi-finals. The body, in general, is fine. In the abdominal [area] it is not going well, to be honest. I had to find a way to serve a little bit differently, for a lot of moments I was thinking maybe I would not be able to finish the match, but I don't know. The court, the energy [helped me]." Nadal, however, remains unsure if he can turn up for his mouth-watering semi-final match versus Australia's Nick Krygios. "I don`t know," th veteran said when asked about his chances of playing the unseeded Kyrgios. "Honestly, I can`t give you a clear answer because if I gave you a clear answer and tomorrow another thing happens, I will be a liar."

WATCH: Nadal's family asks him to quit amid fitness concerns in gruelling Wimbledon QF clash vs Fritz

Rafael Nadal started his journey at the ongoing Wimbledon by dropping a set each during his first two rounds' victories. Since then, Nadal has looked at his best and entered the last 16 with two back-to-back straight-set victories.&nbsp;

As Nadal is hell-bent on extending his lead in terms of most Grand Slam titles in men's singles, the Spaniard will now gear up to face American player Taylor Fritz in the quarter-final clash on Wednesday evening (July 06).&nbsp;

In terms of head-to-head between the two players, it&nbsp;is currently tied at 1-1. Nadal beat the 24-year-old&nbsp;Fritz 6-3, 6-2 to clinch the Mexican Open in 2020. On the other hand, the youngster won 6-3, 7-6(5) to beat Nadal in the summit clash of&nbsp;this year's Indian Wells Masters.

Here's the live streaming details of the Rafael Nadal vs Taylor Fritz quarter-final&nbsp;match in Wimbledon 2022

Where will the Rafael Nadal vs Taylor Fritz&nbsp;quarter-final&nbsp;tie in Wimbledon 2022&nbsp;be played?

The&nbsp;Nadal vs&nbsp;Fritz quarter-final&nbsp;tie at Wimbledon 2022&nbsp;will be held at the&nbsp;Centre Court.

When will the&nbsp;Rafael Nadal vs Taylor Fritz quarter-final&nbsp;match in Wimbledon 2022&nbsp;commence?

The Nadal vs&nbsp;Fritz quarter-final match at Wimbledon 2022&nbsp;will start at 7:15&nbsp;pm IST on Wednesday evening (July 06).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-all-england-club-asks-players-to-spend-daily-food-allowance-wisely-after-coach-bags-27-yogurts-494900">Wimbledon: All England Club asks players to spend daily food allowance wisely after coach bags 27 yogurts</a>

Which TV channels will broadcast the Rafael Nadal vs Taylor Fritz quarter-final&nbsp;match in Wimbledon 2022?

The&nbsp;Nadal vs&nbsp;Fritz quarter-final&nbsp;match at Wimbledon 2022 will be&nbsp;broadcast on Sony Sports Network.&nbsp;

How to watch the live streaming of the Rafael Nadal vs Taylor Fritz quarter-final&nbsp;match in Wimbledon 2022?

The&nbsp;Nadal vs&nbsp;Fritz quarter-final&nbsp;clash&nbsp;at Wimbledon 2022 will be&nbsp;live-streamed on the Disney+ Hotstar website and app.

Rafael Nadal started his journey at the ongoing Wimbledon by dropping a set each during his first two rounds' victories. Since then, Nadal has looked at his best and entered the last 16 with two back-to-back straight-set victories.

Rafael Nadal started his journey at the ongoing Wimbledon by dropping a set each during his first two rounds' victories. Since then, Nadal has looked at his best and entered the last 16 with two back-to-back straight-set victories. As Nadal is hell-bent on extending his lead in terms of most Grand Slam titles in men's singles, the Spaniard will now gear up to face American player Taylor Fritz in the quarter-final clash on Wednesday evening (July 06). In terms of head-to-head between the two players, it is currently tied at 1-1. Nadal beat the 24-year-old Fritz 6-3, 6-2 to clinch the Mexican Open in 2020. On the other hand, the youngster won 6-3, 7-6(5) to beat Nadal in the summit clash of this year's Indian Wells Masters. Here's the live streaming details of the Rafael Nadal vs Taylor Fritz quarter-final match in Wimbledon 2022 Where will the Rafael Nadal vs Taylor Fritz quarter-final tie in Wimbledon 2022 be played? The Nadal vs Fritz quarter-final tie at Wimbledon 2022 will be held at the Centre Court. When will the Rafael Nadal vs Taylor Fritz quarter-final match in Wimbledon 2022 commence? The Nadal vs Fritz quarter-final match at Wimbledon 2022 will start at 7:15 pm IST on Wednesday evening (July 06). ALSO READ | Wimbledon: All England Club asks players to spend daily food allowance wisely after coach bags 27 yogurts Which TV channels will broadcast the Rafael Nadal vs Taylor Fritz quarter-final match in Wimbledon 2022? The Nadal vs Fritz quarter-final match at Wimbledon 2022 will be broadcast on Sony Sports Network. How to watch the live streaming of the Rafael Nadal vs Taylor Fritz quarter-final match in Wimbledon 2022? The Nadal vs Fritz quarter-final clash at Wimbledon 2022 will be live-streamed on the Disney+ Hotstar website and app.

Rafael Nadal vs Taylor Fritz live streaming: When and where to watch Wimbledon QF tie in India?

The 20-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic regained the World No. 1 spot in the ATP rankings released on Monday despite not featuring in Indian Wells.

The Serbian tennis star lost the number one spot in ATP rankings to Daniil Medvedev on February 28 as the Russian became the 27th player to reach No. 1 in the world.

But after Gael Monfils defeated Medvedev in the second round at the Indian Wells Masters, Djokovic has regained the number one spot.

The Serbian currently stands on top with 8465 points while Medvedev stands on the second spot with 8445 points.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-wells-taylor-fritz-ends-rafael-nadals-20-match-unbeaten-streak-in-2022-to-secure-mens-singles-title-464256">Indian Wells: Taylor Fritz ends Rafael Nadal's 20-match unbeaten streak in 2022 to secure men's singles title</a>

Djokovic has only played one tournament this year. He played his first tournament of 2022 in Dubai where he lost to the Czech Republic's Jiri Vesely 4-6, 6-7(4) in the quarter-final.

Rafael Nadal, who lost to Taylor Fritz in the Indian wells final, has returned to the top three in the rankings.

The World No.4 Rafael Nadal's unbeaten streak of 20 matches in 2022 came to an end as the 21-time grand slam champion lost to America's Taylor Fritz 3-6 6-7 (5-7) in the final of Indian Wells.

The 20-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic regained the World No. 1 spot in the ATP rankings released on Monday despite not featuring in Indian Wells. The Serbian tennis star lost the number one spot in ATP rankings to Daniil Medvedev on February 28 as the Russian became the 27th player to reach No.

The 20-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic regained the World No. 1 spot in the ATP rankings released on Monday despite not featuring in Indian Wells. The Serbian tennis star lost the number one spot in ATP rankings to Daniil Medvedev on February 28 as the Russian became the 27th player to reach No. 1 in the world. But after Gael Monfils defeated Medvedev in the second round at the Indian Wells Masters, Djokovic has regained the number one spot. The Serbian currently stands on top with 8465 points while Medvedev stands on the second spot with 8445 points. ALSO READ: Indian Wells: Taylor Fritz ends Rafael Nadal's 20-match unbeaten streak in 2022 to secure men's singles title Djokovic has only played one tournament this year. He played his first tournament of 2022 in Dubai where he lost to the Czech Republic's Jiri Vesely 4-6, 6-7(4) in the quarter-final. Rafael Nadal, who lost to Taylor Fritz in the Indian wells final, has returned to the top three in the rankings. The World No.4 Rafael Nadal's unbeaten streak of 20 matches in 2022 came to an end as the 21-time grand slam champion lost to America's Taylor Fritz 3-6 6-7 (5-7) in the final of Indian Wells.

ATP Rankings: Daniil Medvedev loses World No. 1 spot to Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal back in top 3

World No.4 Rafael Nadal's unbeaten streak of 20 matches in the year 2022 came to an end as the 21-time grand slam champion lost to local lad Taylor Fritz 3-6 6-7 (5-7) in the final here at the Indian Wells.

The 35-year-old Spaniard looked a pale shadow of his own self as he was quickly 0-4 down before leaving the court for treatment.

After the treatment, he looked much better but could not save the opening set as the Californian lad pocketed it 6-3 to go one set-up.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-wells-usas-jack-sock-john-isner-win-mens-doubles-championship-claim-their-second-title-together-463992">Indian Wells: USA's Jack Sock, John Isner win men's doubles crown, claim their second title together</a>

In the second set, the reigning Australian Open champion had two break points at 5-5 but the American Taylor Fritz fought his way back to make win the tie-breaker as well as the match in straight sets.

In this match, Nadal made 34 unforced errors as compared to 22 from Fritz.

Taylor Fritz becomes the first American to win at Indian Wells since Andre Agassi in 2001.

Fritz was also the first American to reach the final of the event since John Isner in 2012.

World No.4 Rafael Nadal's unbeaten streak of 20 matches in the year 2022 came to an end as the 21-time grand slam champion lost to local lad Taylor Fritz 3-6 6-7 (5-7) in the final here at the Indian Wells.

World No.4 Rafael Nadal's unbeaten streak of 20 matches in the year 2022 came to an end as the 21-time grand slam champion lost to local lad Taylor Fritz 3-6 6-7 (5-7) in the final here at the Indian Wells. The 35-year-old Spaniard looked a pale shadow of his own self as he was quickly 0-4 down before leaving the court for treatment. After the treatment, he looked much better but could not save the opening set as the Californian lad pocketed it 6-3 to go one set-up. ALSO READ: Indian Wells: USA's Jack Sock, John Isner win men's doubles crown, claim their second title together In the second set, the reigning Australian Open champion had two break points at 5-5 but the American Taylor Fritz fought his way back to make win the tie-breaker as well as the match in straight sets. In this match, Nadal made 34 unforced errors as compared to 22 from Fritz. Taylor Fritz becomes the first American to win at Indian Wells since Andre Agassi in 2001. Fritz was also the first American to reach the final of the event since John Isner in 2012.

Indian Wells: Taylor Fritz ends Rafael Nadal's 20-match unbeaten streak in 2022 to secure men's singles title

World No.4 Rafael Nadal beats compatriot Carlos Alcaraz 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 in the semi-final that lasted for three hours and 12 minutes to extend his year's unbeaten streak to 20 matches and set up a final clash with American Taylor Fritz here at the Indian Wells.

The 21-time grand slam champion Nadal won the opening set 6-4 to go one set up but the 18-year-old Alcaraz turned it around in the second set to win it with a similar scoreline as the first set to make it one set apiece and the match went to the decider where the experience of Nadal proved to be handy as he clinched the third and final set 6-3.

Nadal's win over Alcaraz was his 954th on outdoor courts, becoming the most successful player in the Open era and breaking Roger Federer's record on 953.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-wells-xu-yifan-yang-zhaoxuan-crowned-womens-doubles-champions-claim-their-first-wta-tour-title-463975">Indian Wells: Xu Yifan, Yang Zhaoxuan crowned women's doubles champions, claim first WTA Tour title</a>

The reigning Australian Open champion will be playing his 53rd Masters 1000 final.

Nadal is also just one win away from equalling Novak Djokovic's record of 37 ATP Masters 1000 titles.

The 35-year-old Spaniard will face 20th seeded Taylor Fritz from America in the final who defeated seventh seed Andrey Rublev of Russia 7-5, 6-4 ending his 13-match winning streak.

The 24-year old Fritz will be aiming to become the first American men's champion at Indian Wells since Andre Agassi in 2001.

World No.4 Rafael Nadal beats compatriot Carlos Alcaraz 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 in the semi-final that lasted for three hours and 12 minutes to extend his year's unbeaten streak to 20 matches and set up a final clash with American Taylor Fritz here at the Indian Wells.

World No.4 Rafael Nadal beats compatriot Carlos Alcaraz 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 in the semi-final that lasted for three hours and 12 minutes to extend his year's unbeaten streak to 20 matches and set up a final clash with American Taylor Fritz here at the Indian Wells. The 21-time grand slam champion Nadal won the opening set 6-4 to go one set up but the 18-year-old Alcaraz turned it around in the second set to win it with a similar scoreline as the first set to make it one set apiece and the match went to the decider where the experience of Nadal proved to be handy as he clinched the third and final set 6-3. Nadal's win over Alcaraz was his 954th on outdoor courts, becoming the most successful player in the Open era and breaking Roger Federer's record on 953. ALSO READ: Indian Wells: Xu Yifan, Yang Zhaoxuan crowned women's doubles champions, claim first WTA Tour title The reigning Australian Open champion will be playing his 53rd Masters 1000 final. Nadal is also just one win away from equalling Novak Djokovic's record of 37 ATP Masters 1000 titles. The 35-year-old Spaniard will face 20th seeded Taylor Fritz from America in the final who defeated seventh seed Andrey Rublev of Russia 7-5, 6-4 ending his 13-match winning streak. The 24-year old Fritz will be aiming to become the first American men's champion at Indian Wells since Andre Agassi in 2001.

Indian Wells: Rafael Nadal beats Alcaraz to set up final against Taylor Fritz, extends unbeaten streak

Taylor Fritz on Friday cruised into the semi-finals of the Indian Wells after victory over Miomir Kecmanovic.

The American showed great patience and power to edge the unseeded Serbian.

The No.20-seeded American defeated Miomir Kecmanovic by 7-6(5), 3-6, 6-1.

Fritz has won three consecutive three-setters here in California, and he is now the first American man to reach back-to-back semifinals at the BNP Paribas Open since Andy Roddick in 2009 and 2010.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-wells-andrey-rublev-eases-past-bulgarias-grigor-dimitrov-to-enter-semi-finals-463666">Indian Wells: Andrey Rublev eases past Bulgaria's Grigor Dimitrov to enter semi-finals</a>

A deserving winner, Fritz was sharp throughout the nearly two-hour match, save for a nightmare service game that handed his opponent a late break against the run of play in set two.

The 20th seed got his first break of the match on his eighth chance early in the decider, then seized the initiative to run away with the win.

World No. 7 Andrey Rublev now awaits the American, who is now one win away from his first ATP Masters 1000 final.

Andrey Rublev prolonged his stay in the California desert beneath perfect blue skies on Friday in Stadium 1, notching a decisive 7-5, 6-2 victory over Grigor Dimitrov to stretch his current winning streak to 13 matches - just two shy of his career-best.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-wells-world-no-4-iga-swiatek-beats-romanias-simona-halep-to-book-final-berth-463662">Indian Wells: World No. 4 Iga Swiatek beats Simona Halep to book final berth</a>

The pair had split four previous meetings but on Friday it was clear which player was in superior form.

The No. 7 seed has already notched two titles this season, at Marseille and Dubai, and has raised seven trophies since the start of 2021.

He improves his record to 18-2 in 2022. Rublev has yet to drop a set this year at Indian Wells, and he reaches his fourth Masters 1000 semifinal since the start of 2021, and his first of the season.

Taylor Fritz on Friday cruised into the semi-finals of the Indian Wells after victory over Miomir Kecmanovic. The American showed great patience and power to edge the unseeded Serbian.

Taylor Fritz on Friday cruised into the semi-finals of the Indian Wells after victory over Miomir Kecmanovic. The American showed great patience and power to edge the unseeded Serbian. The No.20-seeded American defeated Miomir Kecmanovic by 7-6(5), 3-6, 6-1. Fritz has won three consecutive three-setters here in California, and he is now the first American man to reach back-to-back semifinals at the BNP Paribas Open since Andy Roddick in 2009 and 2010. ALSO READ: Indian Wells: Andrey Rublev eases past Bulgaria's Grigor Dimitrov to enter semi-finals A deserving winner, Fritz was sharp throughout the nearly two-hour match, save for a nightmare service game that handed his opponent a late break against the run of play in set two. The 20th seed got his first break of the match on his eighth chance early in the decider, then seized the initiative to run away with the win. World No. 7 Andrey Rublev now awaits the American, who is now one win away from his first ATP Masters 1000 final. Andrey Rublev prolonged his stay in the California desert beneath perfect blue skies on Friday in Stadium 1, notching a decisive 7-5, 6-2 victory over Grigor Dimitrov to stretch his current winning streak to 13 matches - just two shy of his career-best. ALSO READ: Indian Wells: World No. 4 Iga Swiatek beats Simona Halep to book final berth The pair had split four previous meetings but on Friday it was clear which player was in superior form. The No. 7 seed has already notched two titles this season, at Marseille and Dubai, and has raised seven trophies since the start of 2021. He improves his record to 18-2 in 2022. Rublev has yet to drop a set this year at Indian Wells, and he reaches his fourth Masters 1000 semifinal since the start of 2021, and his first of the season.

Indian Wells: Taylor Fritz beat Serbia's Miomir Kecmanovic to set up semi-final clash with Andrey Rublev

American Taylor Fritz came back from the verge of defeat and saved two match points before going on to stun World No. 4 Alexander Zverev in the quarter-finals of the BNP Paribas Open, making it to his first ATP Masters 1000 semi-final. 
 
The 23-year-old American continued his dream run, rallying from 2-5 down in the decider and saved two match points at 3-5, 30/40 and 4-5, 30/40 to upset Zverev 4-6, 6-3, 7-6(3) after two hours and 22 minutes. Fritz thus earned the second Top-5 win of his career to reach his first ATP Masters 1000 semi-final. 
 
"I was really down and out but I found a way to put myself into it," Fritz said in his on-court interview. 
 
"I really wanted to make him have to close me out and I was able to get back into the match. Normally you would be so nervous in those situations and in the third set tie-break, but I felt so confident being aggressive, going after my game. It feels really great to play well with the pressure on," he was quoted as saying in a report on the official website of ATP Tour. 
 
The 31st seed, who recorded straight-set wins over ATP Finals hopefuls Matteo Berrettini and Jannik Sinner en route to his maiden Masters 1000 quarter-final, played aggressive tennis against Zverev, firing 36 winners to advance.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-wells-rohan-bopanna-denis-shapovalov-bow-out-after-losing-to-andrey-rublev-aslan-karatsev-in-quarters-421013">Indian Wells: Rohan Bopanna-Denis Shapovalov bow out after losing to Andrey Rublev-Aslan Karatsev in quarters</a>

Fritz now trails Zverev 2-3 in head-to-head on ATP tour and will face Nikoloz Basilashvili in the last four after the Georgian overcame second seed Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-4, 2-6, 6-4 to reach his maiden Masters 1000 semi-final. 
 
"The biggest thing was match point down, I wanted to make him serve it out, so I just fought as hard as I could to hold that game," Fritz said. "Then I got fortunate in his service game and from there I felt in control and felt really good under the pressure. 
 
"It is amazing. Especially the way that match ended with such high emotions with the crowd. The crowd was amazing and it is a dream come true," he said. 
 
After losing the first set, Fritz changed his tactics in the second set and started to play aggressively as he blasted 13 winners, overpowering Zverev to march 4-1 ahead. After Fritz sealed the set on his serve, Zverev regained momentum in the decider as he continued to soak up the 31st seed`s power. The American`s level slightly dipped in the third set and after Zverev broke early, he was able to put his foot down and roared into a 5-2 lead. 
 
However, the German`s second serve abandoned him when he was trying to serve out the match. Zverev struck two double faults as Fritz broke back. After moving to a tie-break, the American found his best tennis to prevail in a tight match. 
 
Earlier, Basilashvili too sprung a surprise on Friday, earning the biggest win of his career with a 6-4, 2-6, 6-4 upset of World No. 3 Tsitsipas to reach his first ATP Masters 1000 semi-final. Bulgaria`s Grigor Dimitrov will take on Cameron Norrie of Great Britain in the other semi-final. 
 
The Georgian was competing in his maiden Masters 1000 quarter-final and produced an impressive performance as he caused Tsitsipas problems from the baseline with his powerful groundstrokes, raising his level in the third set to advance after two hours and nine minutes.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-open-stars-fall-at-indian-wells-which-struggles-to-draw-a-crowd-420743">US Open stars fall at Indian Wells, which struggles to draw a crowd</a>

In a lively first set, Basilashvili made a fast start as he broke in the opening game, causing Tsitsipas problems with his powerful groundstrokes. The Georgian controlled the tempo of the match, notching 14 winners in the first set as Tsitsipas struggled to find his rhythm from the baseline. 
 
However, the Greek began to gain momentum in the second set as he dominated the longer rallies. The 23-year-old did not face a breakpoint on his serve as he levelled. 
 
After breaks were exchanged in the third set, Basilashvili produced a strong return game and was gifted the lead when Tsitsipas double-faulted on break to move 4-3 ahead. From there, the Georgian kept his composure, fending off pressure from Tsitsipas to hold serve twice to advance. 
 
Tsitsipas was aiming to reach his third consecutive Masters 1000 semi-final in North America, having enjoyed a run to the last four in Toronto and Cincinnati. The Monte-Carlo champion has earned a tour-leading 54 victories this season.

American Taylor Fritz came back from the verge of defeat and saved two match points before going on to stun World No. 4 Alexander Zverev in the quarter-finals of the BNP Paribas Open, making it to his first ATP Masters 1000 semi-final.

American Taylor Fritz came back from the verge of defeat and saved two match points before going on to stun World No. 4 Alexander Zverev in the quarter-finals of the BNP Paribas Open, making it to his first ATP Masters 1000 semi-final. The 23-year-old American continued his dream run, rallying from 2-5 down in the decider and saved two match points at 3-5, 30/40 and 4-5, 30/40 to upset Zverev 4-6, 6-3, 7-6(3) after two hours and 22 minutes. Fritz thus earned the second Top-5 win of his career to reach his first ATP Masters 1000 semi-final. "I was really down and out but I found a way to put myself into it," Fritz said in his on-court interview. "I really wanted to make him have to close me out and I was able to get back into the match. Normally you would be so nervous in those situations and in the third set tie-break, but I felt so confident being aggressive, going after my game. It feels really great to play well with the pressure on," he was quoted as saying in a report on the official website of ATP Tour. The 31st seed, who recorded straight-set wins over ATP Finals hopefuls Matteo Berrettini and Jannik Sinner en route to his maiden Masters 1000 quarter-final, played aggressive tennis against Zverev, firing 36 winners to advance. ALSO READ: Indian Wells: Rohan Bopanna-Denis Shapovalov bow out after losing to Andrey Rublev-Aslan Karatsev in quarters Fritz now trails Zverev 2-3 in head-to-head on ATP tour and will face Nikoloz Basilashvili in the last four after the Georgian overcame second seed Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-4, 2-6, 6-4 to reach his maiden Masters 1000 semi-final. "The biggest thing was match point down, I wanted to make him serve it out, so I just fought as hard as I could to hold that game," Fritz said. "Then I got fortunate in his service game and from there I felt in control and felt really good under the pressure. "It is amazing. Especially the way that match ended with such high emotions with the crowd. The crowd was amazing and it is a dream come true," he said. After losing the first set, Fritz changed his tactics in the second set and started to play aggressively as he blasted 13 winners, overpowering Zverev to march 4-1 ahead. After Fritz sealed the set on his serve, Zverev regained momentum in the decider as he continued to soak up the 31st seed`s power. The American`s level slightly dipped in the third set and after Zverev broke early, he was able to put his foot down and roared into a 5-2 lead. However, the German`s second serve abandoned him when he was trying to serve out the match. Zverev struck two double faults as Fritz broke back. After moving to a tie-break, the American found his best tennis to prevail in a tight match. Earlier, Basilashvili too sprung a surprise on Friday, earning the biggest win of his career with a 6-4, 2-6, 6-4 upset of World No. 3 Tsitsipas to reach his first ATP Masters 1000 semi-final. Bulgaria`s Grigor Dimitrov will take on Cameron Norrie of Great Britain in the other semi-final. The Georgian was competing in his maiden Masters 1000 quarter-final and produced an impressive performance as he caused Tsitsipas problems from the baseline with his powerful groundstrokes, raising his level in the third set to advance after two hours and nine minutes. ALSO READ: US Open stars fall at Indian Wells, which struggles to draw a crowd In a lively first set, Basilashvili made a fast start as he broke in the opening game, causing Tsitsipas problems with his powerful groundstrokes. The Georgian controlled the tempo of the match, notching 14 winners in the first set as Tsitsipas struggled to find his rhythm from the baseline. However, the Greek began to gain momentum in the second set as he dominated the longer rallies. The 23-year-old did not face a breakpoint on his serve as he levelled. After breaks were exchanged in the third set, Basilashvili produced a strong return game and was gifted the lead when Tsitsipas double-faulted on break to move 4-3 ahead. From there, the Georgian kept his composure, fending off pressure from Tsitsipas to hold serve twice to advance. Tsitsipas was aiming to reach his third consecutive Masters 1000 semi-final in North America, having enjoyed a run to the last four in Toronto and Cincinnati. The Monte-Carlo champion has earned a tour-leading 54 victories this season.

Indian Wells: Taylor Fritz saves two match points to stun Alexander Zverev, enters semi-finals

In pictures: Roger Federer's easy win over America's Fritz to reach Australian Open last 16

taylor-fritz

Taylor Fritz, News on Taylor Fritz, stories on Taylor Fritz, articles on Taylor Fritz, Taylor Fritz stories at Wion, Taylor Fritz news, Taylor Fritz latest news

taylor fritz