19-year-old Jannik Sinner has become the youngest player to win an ATP Tour title in more than 12 years after clinching Sofia Open title on Saturday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nadal-cruises-at-atp-finals-as-thiem-takes-revenge-against-tsitsipas-343415">Nadal cruises at ATP Finals as Thiem takes revenge against Tsitsipas</a>

The Italian ace defeated Vasek Pospisil of Canada 6-4, 3-6, 7-6 (3) in the summit clash to win his first ATP title. This was Pospisil's first attempt to win the ATP finals too.&nbsp;

"It is a great feeling ending the year with a tournament win," said Sinner as per the ATP Tour website. "Now I think the hard work is going to start once more… I hope I am going to start even better next year than I did this year," he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-reverts-after-novak-djokovic-replicates-iconic-siu-celebration-343479" hreflang="en">Cristiano Ronaldo reverts after Novak Djokovic replicates iconic 'Siu' celebration</a>

Japan's Kei Nishikori was the last player to have lifted a tour-level trophy at a younger age than Sinner. Nishikori won his maiden ATP Tour title as an 18-year-old at the 2008 Delray Beach Open.

With a win in Sofia, Jannik marks an end to a memorable 2020 campaign during which he claimed three top 10 wins and finished the year with a 19-11 record. He has entered the top 40 of the ATP rankings on Monday after earning rank no. 37.&nbsp;

19-year-old Jannik Sinner has become the youngest player to win an ATP Tour title in more than 12 years after clinching Sofia Open title on Saturday. Also read: Nadal cruises at ATP Finals as Thiem takes revenge against Tsitsipas The Italian ace defeated Vasek Pospisil of Canada 6-4, 3-6, 7-6 (3) in the summit clash to win his first ATP title.

19-year-old Jannik Sinner has become the youngest player to win an ATP Tour title in more than 12 years after clinching Sofia Open title on Saturday. Also read: Nadal cruises at ATP Finals as Thiem takes revenge against Tsitsipas The Italian ace defeated Vasek Pospisil of Canada 6-4, 3-6, 7-6 (3) in the summit clash to win his first ATP title. This was Pospisil's first attempt to win the ATP finals too. "It is a great feeling ending the year with a tournament win," said Sinner as per the ATP Tour website. "Now I think the hard work is going to start once more… I hope I am going to start even better next year than I did this year," he added. Also read: Cristiano Ronaldo reverts after Novak Djokovic replicates iconic 'Siu' celebration Japan's Kei Nishikori was the last player to have lifted a tour-level trophy at a younger age than Sinner. Nishikori won his maiden ATP Tour title as an 18-year-old at the 2008 Delray Beach Open. With a win in Sofia, Jannik marks an end to a memorable 2020 campaign during which he claimed three top 10 wins and finished the year with a 19-11 record. He has entered the top 40 of the ATP rankings on Monday after earning rank no. 37.

19-year-old Jannik Sinner becomes youngest in 12 years to clinch ATP title

Aussie tennis star Nick Kyrgios's last competitive match was in early February at Acapulco after which he decided to stay at home when the circuit resumed in Europe and North America.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-finals-novak-djokovic-eyes-record-equaling-win-to-end-year-on-high-343065">ATP FINALS: Novak Djokovic eyes record-equaling win to end year on high</a>

Kyrgios, recently in an interview, said that he was already considering taking a year off from tennis before the pandemic. However, the COVID-19 lockdown provided him with the "perfect" opportunity for a reset. &nbsp;

Earlier, Kyrgios had also said that he did not have a passion for tennis, said he was considering a lengthy spell away from the game after seeing a psychiatrist before the start of the season.

"I was thinking maybe it was time for me to just take a year off," Kyrgios said in a typically frank interview in Saturday's Sydney Morning Herald.

"I couldn't look at a tennis court. I had no happy feelings. I had no desire to be out there. I had no motivation. I had no need for growth out there.

"I was just going through the motions. It wasn't making me happy. If anything it was decreasing my energy. It was a negative impact on my life."

The "unfortunate circumstances" of the global health crisis could not have suited him better, Kyrgios said.

"This time has been perfect," he added. "I've had it off where I can completely reset and dabble in a couple of areas where my passion was, be back in my community, be back in my home and just get a complete reset. That's what I was thinking about doing."

Aussie tennis star Nick Kyrgios's last competitive match was in early February at Acapulco after which he decided to stay at home when the circuit resumed in Europe and North America.

Aussie tennis star Nick Kyrgios's last competitive match was in early February at Acapulco after which he decided to stay at home when the circuit resumed in Europe and North America. Also read: ATP FINALS: Novak Djokovic eyes record-equaling win to end year on high Kyrgios, recently in an interview, said that he was already considering taking a year off from tennis before the pandemic. However, the COVID-19 lockdown provided him with the "perfect" opportunity for a reset. Earlier, Kyrgios had also said that he did not have a passion for tennis, said he was considering a lengthy spell away from the game after seeing a psychiatrist before the start of the season. "I was thinking maybe it was time for me to just take a year off," Kyrgios said in a typically frank interview in Saturday's Sydney Morning Herald. "I couldn't look at a tennis court. I had no happy feelings. I had no desire to be out there. I had no motivation. I had no need for growth out there. "I was just going through the motions. It wasn't making me happy. If anything it was decreasing my energy. It was a negative impact on my life." The "unfortunate circumstances" of the global health crisis could not have suited him better, Kyrgios said. "This time has been perfect," he added. "I've had it off where I can completely reset and dabble in a couple of areas where my passion was, be back in my community, be back in my home and just get a complete reset. That's what I was thinking about doing."

COVID-19 lockdown provided 'perfect' opportunity for reset, says Kyrgios

Rafael Nadal said he had enjoyed a "positive tournament" at the Paris Masters as he gears up for his latest tilt at a first ATP Tour Finals triumph, despite losing to Alexander Zverev on Saturday.

The top seed slumped to a 6-4, 7-5 loss to Zverev in the semi-finals at Bercy Arena, but said his run this week would help him at the season-ending event in London, which starts on November 15.

"It has been a positive tournament for me. Of course not happy about the loss, but that's part of the game," said Nadal, who has also never won the Paris Masters.

"I spent hours on court. Of course I wanted to win the tournament, but it's always difficult.

"But I had the right attitude during the whole event, I think, fighting in every match.

"That gave me the chance to play four matches that I think will be helpful for London. I need to adjust a couple of things, but I am doing well on all the important things."

The Spaniard, playing for the first time since winning a record-extending 13th French Open title across Paris at Roland Garros last month, was never at his best on the indoor hard courts.

He claimed his 1,000th career win with a comeback victory over Feliciano Lopez in the second round and also had to fight back from a set down to beat Pablo Carreno Busta in the quarter-finals.

Nadal has only won one of his 86 ATP titles on indoor hard courts and that success came in Madrid over 15 years ago.

"I need to find a better feeling with the backhand on this surface, because when I hit the ball sometimes I feel that I can miss it," he admitted.

"To compete at this highest level, sometimes it's a little bit tougher."

Rafael Nadal said he had enjoyed a "positive tournament" at the Paris Masters as he gears up for his latest tilt at a first ATP Tour Finals triumph, despite losing to Alexander Zverev on Saturday.

Rafael Nadal said he had enjoyed a "positive tournament" at the Paris Masters as he gears up for his latest tilt at a first ATP Tour Finals triumph, despite losing to Alexander Zverev on Saturday. The top seed slumped to a 6-4, 7-5 loss to Zverev in the semi-finals at Bercy Arena, but said his run this week would help him at the season-ending event in London, which starts on November 15. "It has been a positive tournament for me. Of course not happy about the loss, but that's part of the game," said Nadal, who has also never won the Paris Masters. "I spent hours on court. Of course I wanted to win the tournament, but it's always difficult. "But I had the right attitude during the whole event, I think, fighting in every match. "That gave me the chance to play four matches that I think will be helpful for London. I need to adjust a couple of things, but I am doing well on all the important things." The Spaniard, playing for the first time since winning a record-extending 13th French Open title across Paris at Roland Garros last month, was never at his best on the indoor hard courts. He claimed his 1,000th career win with a comeback victory over Feliciano Lopez in the second round and also had to fight back from a set down to beat Pablo Carreno Busta in the quarter-finals. Nadal has only won one of his 86 ATP titles on indoor hard courts and that success came in Madrid over 15 years ago. "I need to find a better feeling with the backhand on this surface, because when I hit the ball sometimes I feel that I can miss it," he admitted. "To compete at this highest level, sometimes it's a little bit tougher."

Nadal 'positive' ahead of ATP Finals despite Zverev loss

German tennis player Alexander Zverev said on Wednesday that accusations by an ex-girlfriend that he attacked her last year were "not true".

The world number seven insisted last week in a social media post that claims made by Olga Sharypova that he tried to "strangle" her while at last year's US Open were "unfounded" and made him "very sad".

"I have said everything on my Instagram. There is nothing else I can add right now," Zverev said after his 6-2, 6-2 Paris Masters second-round win over Miomir Kecmanovic at Bercy Arena.

"I'm here. I'm here to play tennis. I mean, the relationship, as I said, has been over for a very long time.

"I'm enjoying my time on court. I have said everything. They are not true, and there is nothing more I can say right now."

Zverev has been in good form in recent weeks, winning back-to-back titles on home soil in Cologne, having also reached his maiden Grand Slam final at this year's US Open, where he lost in five sets to Dominic Thiem.

Sharypova did not initially name Zverev in her Instagram post about the alleged abuse, but later confirmed to Russian media that she was referring to her fellow 23-year-old.

Sharypova claimed also that her head was hit against a wall and that she was forced to flee a hotel barefoot.

"I'm here to play tennis," added Zverev. "I have been doing that well the last few weeks... Since the comeback of the season, and I want to continue doing that.

"There is obviously a little bit of things going on."

Zverev will face Frenchman Adrian Mannarino in the Paris third round on Thursday.

German tennis player Alexander Zverev said on Wednesday that accusations by an ex-girlfriend that he attacked her last year were "not true". The world number seven insisted last week in a social media post that claims made by Olga Sharypova that he tried to "strangle" her while at last year's US Open were "unfounded" and made him "very sad".

German tennis player Alexander Zverev said on Wednesday that accusations by an ex-girlfriend that he attacked her last year were "not true". The world number seven insisted last week in a social media post that claims made by Olga Sharypova that he tried to "strangle" her while at last year's US Open were "unfounded" and made him "very sad". "I have said everything on my Instagram. There is nothing else I can add right now," Zverev said after his 6-2, 6-2 Paris Masters second-round win over Miomir Kecmanovic at Bercy Arena. "I'm here. I'm here to play tennis. I mean, the relationship, as I said, has been over for a very long time. "I'm enjoying my time on court. I have said everything. They are not true, and there is nothing more I can say right now." Zverev has been in good form in recent weeks, winning back-to-back titles on home soil in Cologne, having also reached his maiden Grand Slam final at this year's US Open, where he lost in five sets to Dominic Thiem. Sharypova did not initially name Zverev in her Instagram post about the alleged abuse, but later confirmed to Russian media that she was referring to her fellow 23-year-old. Sharypova claimed also that her head was hit against a wall and that she was forced to flee a hotel barefoot. "I'm here to play tennis," added Zverev. "I have been doing that well the last few weeks... Since the comeback of the season, and I want to continue doing that. "There is obviously a little bit of things going on." Zverev will face Frenchman Adrian Mannarino in the Paris third round on Thursday.

Zverev again says domestic assault allegations 'not true'

Rafael Nadal said he was proud of a "great achievement" after securing the 1,000th Tour-level victory of his illustrious career on Wednesday, becoming the fourth man to reach that mark with a comeback win over Feliciano Lopez in the Paris Masters second round.

The 20-time Grand Slam champion, back in the French capital less than a month after winning his 13th Roland Garros title, edged out his fellow Spaniard 4-6, 7-6 (7/5), 6-4.

"I am proud about a lot of things, but I faced some challenges in my career in terms of body injuries," said Nadal.

"But I always had the passion to keep going and the humility to keep going when things are going in a way you don't expect.

"It's a great achievement for me."

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Nadal, whose first match win on the ATP Tour came in April 2002 when he was just 15, is fourth on the all-time list, with Jimmy Connors leading the way on 1,274 victories, 32 more than second-placed Roger Federer.

"One negative thing about getting to 1,000 -- is that you're very old as it means you have to have had a very long career," added Nadal.

"But I'm very happy."

Ivan Lendl also passed the 1,000-win barrier.

Nadal was given a special presentation to celebrate his achievement after the match in a near-empty Bercy Arena, with the event being played behind closed doors after France entered its second coronavirus lockdown last week.

The 34-year-old Nadal, bidding for a first Paris Masters title, will face Jordan Thompson in the third round after the Australian beat Croatia's Borna Coric 2-6, 6-4, 6-2.

Taking the trophy in Paris this week would see Nadal equal Novak Djokovic's record of 36 Masters titles.

He struggled to find his rhythm for much of the match as 39-year-old Lopez served excellently, saving the first six break points he faced, but Nadal stepped it up in the second-set tie-break.

The top seed grabbed the crucial break in the first game of the decider and then eased to victory after saving two break points himself in the next game.

"It was a very tough match," said Nadal. "I started in the worst way possible with a break. Against him, that's difficult because you're under pressure for the whole match."

The world number two is playing the tournament for the eighth time in his career, but he pulled out midway through his last two appearances due to injury.

His best run at Bercy was when he lost in the 2007 final to Argentinian David Nalbandian.

Rafael Nadal said he was proud of a "great achievement" after securing the 1,000th Tour-level victory of his illustrious career on Wednesday, becoming the fourth man to reach that mark with a comeback win over Feliciano Lopez in the Paris Masters second round.

Rafael Nadal said he was proud of a "great achievement" after securing the 1,000th Tour-level victory of his illustrious career on Wednesday, becoming the fourth man to reach that mark with a comeback win over Feliciano Lopez in the Paris Masters second round. The 20-time Grand Slam champion, back in the French capital less than a month after winning his 13th Roland Garros title, edged out his fellow Spaniard 4-6, 7-6 (7/5), 6-4. "I am proud about a lot of things, but I faced some challenges in my career in terms of body injuries," said Nadal. "But I always had the passion to keep going and the humility to keep going when things are going in a way you don't expect. "It's a great achievement for me." ALSO READ: Zverev again says domestic assault allegations 'not true' Nadal, whose first match win on the ATP Tour came in April 2002 when he was just 15, is fourth on the all-time list, with Jimmy Connors leading the way on 1,274 victories, 32 more than second-placed Roger Federer. "One negative thing about getting to 1,000 -- is that you're very old as it means you have to have had a very long career," added Nadal. "But I'm very happy." Ivan Lendl also passed the 1,000-win barrier. Nadal was given a special presentation to celebrate his achievement after the match in a near-empty Bercy Arena, with the event being played behind closed doors after France entered its second coronavirus lockdown last week. The 34-year-old Nadal, bidding for a first Paris Masters title, will face Jordan Thompson in the third round after the Australian beat Croatia's Borna Coric 2-6, 6-4, 6-2. Taking the trophy in Paris this week would see Nadal equal Novak Djokovic's record of 36 Masters titles. He struggled to find his rhythm for much of the match as 39-year-old Lopez served excellently, saving the first six break points he faced, but Nadal stepped it up in the second-set tie-break. The top seed grabbed the crucial break in the first game of the decider and then eased to victory after saving two break points himself in the next game. "It was a very tough match," said Nadal. "I started in the worst way possible with a break. Against him, that's difficult because you're under pressure for the whole match." The world number two is playing the tournament for the eighth time in his career, but he pulled out midway through his last two appearances due to injury. His best run at Bercy was when he lost in the 2007 final to Argentinian David Nalbandian.

Rafael Nadal joins elite list after completing 1000 career wins

Novak Djokovic retained his world no. 1 title despite a shocking defeat to Lorenzo Sonego in Vienna last week after the ATP announced its latest rankings on Monday.

Novak Djokovic retained his world no. 1 title despite a shocking defeat to Lorenzo Sonego in Vienna last week after the ATP announced its latest rankings on Monday. Djokovic nears Roger Federer's record of being the player with the most number of weeks as world number one in men's tennis. The Serbian ace has spent 293 weeks as No.1 as compared to Swiss' record of 310. Djokovic returned to the field to play in Austria after suffering a crushing defeat by the hand of Rafael Nadal. The 17-time Grand Slam winner is virtually guaranteed to equal Pete Sampras's record of securing a year-ending top ranking for the sixth time with second-placed Rafael Nadal unlikely to play at Sofia this month. Sonegro witnessed a rise in ranks after stunning Djokovic last week. He is at a career-best of 32nd. ATP rankings as of November 2: 1. Novak Djokovic (SRB) 11830 pts 2. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 9850 3. Dominic Thiem (AUT) 9125 4. Roger Federer (SUI) 6630 5. Daniil Medvedev (RUS) 5980 (+1) 6. Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE) 5925 (-1) 7. Alexander Zverev (GER) 5015 8. Andrey Rublev (RUS) 3839 9. Diego Schwartzman (ARG) 3285 10. Matteo Berrettini (ITA) 3075 11. Gael Monfils (FRA) 2860 12. Denis Shapovalov (CAN) 2830 13. Roberto Bautista (ESP) 2710 14. David Goffin (BEL) 2555 15. Pablo Carreno (ESP) 2400 16. Fabio Fognini (ITA) 2400 17. Milos Raonic (CAN) 2265 18. Grigor Dimitrov (BUL) 2260 (+2) 19. Karen Khachanov (RUS) 2245 (-1) 20. Stan Wawrinka (SUI) 2230 (-1)

Novak Djokovic remains World no. 1 despite Vienna shocker as ATP announces latest rankings

Novak Djokovic shrugged off his heaviest defeat on Friday by insisting he had achieved his goal of wrapping up the year-end world number one spot for a record-equalling sixth time.

Djokovic was stunned 6-2, 6-1 by Italian lucky loser Lorenzo Sonego in the quarter-finals of the Vienna ATP tournament.

But having won two rounds in the Austrian capital, 33-year-old Djokovic is virtually guaranteed equalling Pete Sampras's record of securing the year-ending top ranking for the sixth time.

"Clinching the year-end number one had an effect on me," Djokovic told a news conference.

"I have done what I came here for, securing the number one. And I'm completely fine with today's result.

"I'm healthy and looking forward to a strong finish in London (the season-ending ATP Finals)".

Italian Sonego, ranked 42 and who had intially lost in qualifying last weekend, is the first lucky loser ever to beat Djokovic.

The only other time Djokovic had won just three games was at the 2005 Australian Open at the hands of Marat Safin in a best-of-five set encounter.

"He just blew me off the court, that's all," Djokovic told atptour.com.&nbsp;

"He was better in every segment of the game. It was a pretty bad match from my side, but amazing from his side.&nbsp;

"He definitely deserved this result," added the Serb star who was playing his first tournament since his Roland Garros final defeat to Rafal Nadal three weeks ago.

<h2>- 'Unbelievable, amazing' -</h2>

Djokovic can only be denied the end of year world number one ranking if Nadal takes an unlikely wild card into the Sofia tournament next month.

The Spaniard has already said, however, that travelling to Bulgaria after next week's Paris Masters and before London is not on his agenda.

Sonego fired 26 winners past Djokovic who lost for only the third time in 2020 against 39 victories

Djokovic, a 17-time major champion, managed just seven winners against 25 unforced errors.

"For sure it's the best victory of my life. Novak is the best in the world. Today I played so, so good," Sonego said.

"It's unbelievable. It's amazing. I played the best match in my life. I'm so happy for this."

Sonego goes on to face Britain's Dan Evans, who defeated Grigor Dimitrov of Bulgaria 7-6 (7/3), 4-6, 6-3, for a place in Sunday's final.

Second seed and defending champion Dominic Thiem also lost Friday, going down 7-6 (7/5), 6-2 to Russian world number eight Andrey Rublev.

Rublev hit 30 winners past the US Open champion and goes on to face South Africa's Kevin Anderson for a place in the final.

"I came here with the mood that I have nothing to lose," said Rublev who is chasing a fifth title of the year.

"I had already a really great season. I came here with zero expectations, just wanting to do my best. To try to fight every match. At the end, I am here in the semi-finals."

Anderson made the semi-finals by accounting for Russian fourth seed Daniil Medvedev 6-4, 7-6 (7/5).

It was 2018 champion Anderson's first top 10 win in two years.

Novak Djokovic shrugged off his heaviest defeat on Friday by insisting he had achieved his goal of wrapping up the year-end world number one spot for a record-equalling sixth time.

Novak Djokovic shrugged off his heaviest defeat on Friday by insisting he had achieved his goal of wrapping up the year-end world number one spot for a record-equalling sixth time. Djokovic was stunned 6-2, 6-1 by Italian lucky loser Lorenzo Sonego in the quarter-finals of the Vienna ATP tournament. But having won two rounds in the Austrian capital, 33-year-old Djokovic is virtually guaranteed equalling Pete Sampras's record of securing the year-ending top ranking for the sixth time. "Clinching the year-end number one had an effect on me," Djokovic told a news conference. "I have done what I came here for, securing the number one. And I'm completely fine with today's result. "I'm healthy and looking forward to a strong finish in London (the season-ending ATP Finals)". Italian Sonego, ranked 42 and who had intially lost in qualifying last weekend, is the first lucky loser ever to beat Djokovic. The only other time Djokovic had won just three games was at the 2005 Australian Open at the hands of Marat Safin in a best-of-five set encounter. "He just blew me off the court, that's all," Djokovic told atptour.com. "He was better in every segment of the game. It was a pretty bad match from my side, but amazing from his side. "He definitely deserved this result," added the Serb star who was playing his first tournament since his Roland Garros final defeat to Rafal Nadal three weeks ago. - 'Unbelievable, amazing' - Djokovic can only be denied the end of year world number one ranking if Nadal takes an unlikely wild card into the Sofia tournament next month. The Spaniard has already said, however, that travelling to Bulgaria after next week's Paris Masters and before London is not on his agenda. Sonego fired 26 winners past Djokovic who lost for only the third time in 2020 against 39 victories Djokovic, a 17-time major champion, managed just seven winners against 25 unforced errors. "For sure it's the best victory of my life. Novak is the best in the world. Today I played so, so good," Sonego said. "It's unbelievable. It's amazing. I played the best match in my life. I'm so happy for this." Sonego goes on to face Britain's Dan Evans, who defeated Grigor Dimitrov of Bulgaria 7-6 (7/3), 4-6, 6-3, for a place in Sunday's final. Second seed and defending champion Dominic Thiem also lost Friday, going down 7-6 (7/5), 6-2 to Russian world number eight Andrey Rublev. Rublev hit 30 winners past the US Open champion and goes on to face South Africa's Kevin Anderson for a place in the final. "I came here with the mood that I have nothing to lose," said Rublev who is chasing a fifth title of the year. "I had already a really great season. I came here with zero expectations, just wanting to do my best. To try to fight every match. At the end, I am here in the semi-finals." Anderson made the semi-finals by accounting for Russian fourth seed Daniil Medvedev 6-4, 7-6 (7/5). It was 2018 champion Anderson's first top 10 win in two years.

'I did what I came for': Djokovic suffers heaviest loss but securing top spot priority

Novak Djokovic on Tuesday defeated Filip Krajinovic in the first round in Vienna and the Serbian ace edged closer to Pete Sampras’ all-time record of ending the year as world number one on six occasions. Djokovic won against Krajinovic 7-4 (8/6), 6-3 and requires just one win in Austria against Borna Coric to make sure he equals the achievement of his childhood idol.

The world number one has been a top-ranked player at the end of a season five times thus far: in 2011, 2012, 2014, 2015 and 2018. 
Djokovic currently shares the record with rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. However, Sampras achieved the illustrious feat six years in succession between 1993 and 1998.

Djokovic, who was playing in Vienna for the first time since 2007, dropped serve twice in a tricky opening set. However, he cruised past Krajinovic without breaking much sweat following the tie-break.

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"First set, I think he was the better player. He was serving for the first set and I was lucky. He missed a smash at 6/6 in the tie-break," said Djokovic.&nbsp;

"A few points here and there can change the momentum of the match. In the second set, I stepped it up, I played better and I am just pleased with the way I finished the match."

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This is Djokovic’s first tournament since his humiliating defeat to Rafael Nadal in Rolad Garros a couple of weeks ago.

Djokovic is also eyeing Federer’s all-time best record of spending 310 weeks spent on the top of the rankings. Djokovic on Monday started his 292nd week in total as world number one.&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic on Tuesday defeated Filip Krajinovic in the first round in Vienna and the Serbian ace edged closer to Pete Sampras’ all-time record of ending the year as world number one on six occasions.

Novak Djokovic on Tuesday defeated Filip Krajinovic in the first round in Vienna and the Serbian ace edged closer to Pete Sampras’ all-time record of ending the year as world number one on six occasions. Djokovic won against Krajinovic 7-4 (8/6), 6-3 and requires just one win in Austria against Borna Coric to make sure he equals the achievement of his childhood idol. The world number one has been a top-ranked player at the end of a season five times thus far: in 2011, 2012, 2014, 2015 and 2018. Djokovic currently shares the record with rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. However, Sampras achieved the illustrious feat six years in succession between 1993 and 1998. Djokovic, who was playing in Vienna for the first time since 2007, dropped serve twice in a tricky opening set. However, he cruised past Krajinovic without breaking much sweat following the tie-break. ALSO READ: 'Careless' Coleman set to miss Olympics after being handed two-year ban "First set, I think he was the better player. He was serving for the first set and I was lucky. He missed a smash at 6/6 in the tie-break," said Djokovic. "A few points here and there can change the momentum of the match. In the second set, I stepped it up, I played better and I am just pleased with the way I finished the match." ALSO READ: Ronaldo still positive for coronavirus before Barcelona game This is Djokovic’s first tournament since his humiliating defeat to Rafael Nadal in Rolad Garros a couple of weeks ago. Djokovic is also eyeing Federer’s all-time best record of spending 310 weeks spent on the top of the rankings. Djokovic on Monday started his 292nd week in total as world number one.

Novak Djokovic eyeing Pete Sampras' all-time record

Rafael Nadal will swap his rackets for his golf clubs on Saturday and play in the Balearic Championship in Mallorca, according to a report in Spain.

Nadal is an excellent golfer with a handicap of 0.3 and will join the list of 60 players for the tournament, which includes 23 professionals and 37 amateurs, said Diario de Mallorca on Thursday.

It is not Nadal's first foray into golf, with the Spaniard finishing second just last weekend in the V Test Circuit Hexagonal - Autovidal in Calvia.

The 34-year-old beat Novak Djokovic to win his 13th French Open title earlier this month and move level with Roger Federer on 20 Grand Slam titles.

Rafael Nadal will swap his rackets for his golf clubs on Saturday and play in the Balearic Championship in Mallorca, according to a report in Spain. Nadal is an excellent golfer with a handicap of 0.

Rafael Nadal will swap his rackets for his golf clubs on Saturday and play in the Balearic Championship in Mallorca, according to a report in Spain. Nadal is an excellent golfer with a handicap of 0.3 and will join the list of 60 players for the tournament, which includes 23 professionals and 37 amateurs, said Diario de Mallorca on Thursday. It is not Nadal's first foray into golf, with the Spaniard finishing second just last weekend in the V Test Circuit Hexagonal - Autovidal in Calvia. The 34-year-old beat Novak Djokovic to win his 13th French Open title earlier this month and move level with Roger Federer on 20 Grand Slam titles.

Nadal to play professional golf tournament in Mallorca

Novak Djokovic said on Wednesday that he will not defend his Paris Masters title because he cannot gain any ranking points if he plays.&nbsp;

The world number one told Serbian daily Sportski Zurnal that due to the revised ranking system created amid the coronavirus pandemic he could not win any additional ranking points at next month's ATP event in the French capital.

Djokovic said his main priority is to remain first in the rankings until at least March 8 next year to break Roger Federer's record for most weeks in the ATP's top spot.

Rankings are calculated by the players' best results between March 2019 and December this year.&nbsp;

Djokovic, collected 1,000 points by wining in Paris last year and so cannot add to his total by playing there.

"I won't play the Masters in Paris as I can't win new points there. But I will go to Vienna and London", Djokovic said.

"I didn't play in Vienna last year and I can win up to 500 points there. There are lot of points to be won in London as well."

Djokovic, 33, who lost the French Open final to Rafael Nadal earlier this month is training in Belgrade.

He said he has to keep an eye on Nadal and Dominic Thiem, the two men closest to him in the rankings.

"It depends also on Nadal and Thiem's score until the end of this year, and also on following Australian Open, but I am in a good position," Djokovic said.

Djokovic is almost 2,000 points ahead of second best Nadal, but the Spaniard demolished the 17-time Grand Slam winner aside 6-0, 6-2, 7-5 in the Roland Garros final.

Novak Djokovic said on Wednesday that he will not defend his Paris Masters title because he cannot gain any ranking points if he plays. The world number one told Serbian daily Sportski Zurnal that due to the revised ranking system created amid the coronavirus pandemic he could not win any additional ranking points at next month's ATP event in the French capital.

Novak Djokovic said on Wednesday that he will not defend his Paris Masters title because he cannot gain any ranking points if he plays. The world number one told Serbian daily Sportski Zurnal that due to the revised ranking system created amid the coronavirus pandemic he could not win any additional ranking points at next month's ATP event in the French capital. Djokovic said his main priority is to remain first in the rankings until at least March 8 next year to break Roger Federer's record for most weeks in the ATP's top spot. Rankings are calculated by the players' best results between March 2019 and December this year. Djokovic, collected 1,000 points by wining in Paris last year and so cannot add to his total by playing there. "I won't play the Masters in Paris as I can't win new points there. But I will go to Vienna and London", Djokovic said. "I didn't play in Vienna last year and I can win up to 500 points there. There are lot of points to be won in London as well." Djokovic, 33, who lost the French Open final to Rafael Nadal earlier this month is training in Belgrade. He said he has to keep an eye on Nadal and Dominic Thiem, the two men closest to him in the rankings. "It depends also on Nadal and Thiem's score until the end of this year, and also on following Australian Open, but I am in a good position," Djokovic said. Djokovic is almost 2,000 points ahead of second best Nadal, but the Spaniard demolished the 17-time Grand Slam winner aside 6-0, 6-2, 7-5 in the Roland Garros final.

Djokovic pulls out of Paris Masters, eyes Vienna and London

Novak Djokovic visited a Bosnian 'pyramid park' on Tuesday to benefit from the site's purported healing powers and miracle cures, 48 hours after his demolition by Rafael Nadal in the French Open final.

The Serbian world number one is known for unorthodox and sometimes controversial new-age spiritual views and practices.

And two days after being swept aside 6-0, 6-2, 7-5 at Roland Garros he made a trip to Visko's Valley of the Pyramids and its 25,000-year-old tunnels beneath whose "energy" is claimed to bring about miracle cures.

Although some hills in the region resemble a pyramid shape, the European Association of Archaeologists debunked the claims as pseudo-science over a decade ago.&nbsp;

"I would invite all athletes to come here to spend time in the tunnels, which are very beneficial for the increase of oxygen in the lungs," he told public TV station FTV.

"It has a direct effect on regeneration, on recovery, which is very important for athletes," he said.

According to local media, visitors to the pyramid park have increased since Djokovic's earlier visit in July after he and his wife contracted Covid-19 following a tennis tournament Djokovic organised in the Balkans.&nbsp;

"If there is paradise on earth, then it is here," the Serbian player said at the time.

Novak Djokovic visited a Bosnian 'pyramid park' on Tuesday to benefit from the site's purported healing powers and miracle cures, 48 hours after his demolition by Rafael Nadal in the French Open final.

Novak Djokovic visited a Bosnian 'pyramid park' on Tuesday to benefit from the site's purported healing powers and miracle cures, 48 hours after his demolition by Rafael Nadal in the French Open final. The Serbian world number one is known for unorthodox and sometimes controversial new-age spiritual views and practices. And two days after being swept aside 6-0, 6-2, 7-5 at Roland Garros he made a trip to Visko's Valley of the Pyramids and its 25,000-year-old tunnels beneath whose "energy" is claimed to bring about miracle cures. Although some hills in the region resemble a pyramid shape, the European Association of Archaeologists debunked the claims as pseudo-science over a decade ago. "I would invite all athletes to come here to spend time in the tunnels, which are very beneficial for the increase of oxygen in the lungs," he told public TV station FTV. "It has a direct effect on regeneration, on recovery, which is very important for athletes," he said. According to local media, visitors to the pyramid park have increased since Djokovic's earlier visit in July after he and his wife contracted Covid-19 following a tennis tournament Djokovic organised in the Balkans. "If there is paradise on earth, then it is here," the Serbian player said at the time.

After Nadal loss, Djokovic seeks solace at Bosnia's 'energy pyramids'

Wimbledon is set to take place next year even if the grass-court championship should be staged behind closed doors without any fans, organisers announced on Friday.

Wimbledon is set to take place next year even if the grass-court championship should be staged behind closed doors without any fans, organisers announced on Friday. The British Grand Slam was cancelled for the first time since World War II. It was cancelled due to coronavirus pandemic. Global tennis faced a major disruption due to the pandemic. However, the US Open went ahead behind closed doors and the French Open took place in front of only 1,000 fans a day after its starting date was moved from May to late September. According to several scenarios planned by the All England Club, they can go ahead with the tournament with a full-capacity Wimbledon, reduced numbers of fans or holding the tournament with no spectators present. Also read: 'It’s pretty crazy here', Iga Swiatek on her brand new celebrity status "Staging the championships in 2021 is our number-one priority and we are actively engaged in scenario-planning in order to deliver on that priority," said chief executive Sally Bolton. Wimbledon's statement read: "Our overriding priority will continue to be the health and safety of all of our stakeholders, in particular our guests, our staff, and our competitors. "We are working closely with the relevant government and public health authorities, alongside the rest of the sports industry, to understand the varying challenges and opportunities presented by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic." The Grand Slam will be held from June 28 to July 11, 2021. Wimbledon has been working closely with local communities during the pandemic and will continue to provide 200 hot meals a day to people in need until Christmas. More than £750,000 ($970,000) has been donated to charities and organisations, while 30,000 of the famous Wimbledon towels that were intended to be used for the 2020 tournament have been given away. (Inputs from AFP)

Wimbledon set to return in 2021 even without fans

Rafael Nadal on Sunday continued his domination&nbsp;at claycourt as the Spaniard defeated world no. one Novak Djokovic to win his 13 French Open title while equaling Roger Federer’s record of 20 Grand Slam wins.&nbsp;

Nadal dominated the match from the word go as he bageled Djokovic in the opening set having made only two unforced errors. Not only did many former players congratulate&nbsp;the newly crowned Roland Garros winner, Nadal fans were overjoyed with the annihilation as they celebrated his 20th Grand Slam title by expressing their delight on social media platform Twitter. The hashtag '#GOAT' (Greatest of All Time) started trending as soon as Nadal completed the win.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nadal-defeats-djokovic-to-win-13th-french-open-equals-federers-20-grand-slam-wins-334536" hreflang="en">Nadal defeats Djokovic to win 13th French Open, equals Federer's 20 Grand Slam wins</a>

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<a href="https://t.co/TzQhBeuwML">pic.twitter.com/TzQhBeuwML</a>
— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer/status/1315330172221116418?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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How it started: How it's going: <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> <a href="https://t.co/6zfBuKADun">pic.twitter.com/6zfBuKADun</a>
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/status/1315326501059919872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Congratulations to the King of Clay <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a>. Winning 13 Slams in Paris is extraordinary, a fitting Grand Slam finale to a challenging year. You're an inspiration Rafa, gracious and great. Here’s to 20 majors. 🚀
— Rod Laver (@rodlaver) <a href="https://twitter.com/rodlaver/status/1315324253823094784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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📆 2005: 
🏆 <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> wins his first Grand Slam at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> 
 
📆 2020: 
🏆 <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> wins his 13th <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> title, and his 20th Grand Slam. 
 
👏 Insane longevity. <a href="https://t.co/gCdFOTiPm3">pic.twitter.com/gCdFOTiPm3</a>
— SPORF (@Sporf) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sporf/status/1315324184378183683?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> for 13th French Open/20th Grandslam. 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DjokerNole</a> better luck, fav !! ❤️
— Prateek Bhatta (@prb10_official) <a href="https://twitter.com/prb10_official/status/1315329244851957760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NadalGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NadalGarros</a> 13th Time French Open Champion, 20 Time GrandSlam Champion. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GOAT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GOAT</a> If only words could describe his excellence! Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RafaelNadal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RafaelNadal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VamosRafa?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VamosRafa</a> <a href="https://t.co/pOnD3T9x8G">pic.twitter.com/pOnD3T9x8G</a>
— Sagar Bidri (@sagarbidri) <a href="https://twitter.com/sagarbidri/status/1315329238895980544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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🌟 GOAT 🌟 
 
🇨🇭 ROGER FEDERER (20 GS) 🏆 
 
🇦🇺 Australian Open (6) 
🇫🇷 Roland Garros (1) 
🇬🇧 Wimbledon (8) 
🇺🇸 US Open (5) 
 
🇪🇸 RAFAEL NADAL (20 GS) 🏆 
 
🇦🇺 Australian Open (1) 
🇫🇷 Roland Garros (13) 
🇬🇧 Wimbledon (2) 
🇺🇸 US Open (4) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RafaelNadal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RafaelNadal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RogerFederer?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RogerFederer</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FrenchOpen2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FrenchOpen2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FrenchOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FrenchOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/NhQXy7Bu8r">pic.twitter.com/NhQXy7Bu8r</a>
— Amul Butter Baby (@AmulButterBaby) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmulButterBaby/status/1315329233653166080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rolandgarros</a> 🎾❤️👏 <a href="https://t.co/xpctMJ5bQD">pic.twitter.com/xpctMJ5bQD</a>
— Joan Blanusa (@jmblanusa) <a href="https://twitter.com/jmblanusa/status/1315329178150076416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Congrats to <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a>. Fantastic performance.👏👍👌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> <a href="https://t.co/f5WwE54TgR">pic.twitter.com/f5WwE54TgR</a>
— Stephen Sarfo (@sarfosteve10) <a href="https://twitter.com/sarfosteve10/status/1315329166120816642?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Nadal also bagged his 100th win at Roland Garros with an ace.&nbsp;The final of French Open 2020 lasted just two hours and 43 wins as Nadal completed one of the dominating performances against Djokovic. Hailed as ‘King of Clay’, Nadal now has 13 French Open titles and also bageled Djokovic in the opening set that lasted only 45 minutes.&nbsp;

“First of all of course congrats to Novak for another great tournament, sorry for today,” Nadal, who has now beaten Djokovic in all of their three French Open finals, said on court.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fearless-swiatek-continues-transfer-of-power-in-womens-tennis-334466" hreflang="en">Fearless Swiatek continues transfer of power in women's tennis</a>

“In Australia (in the final in 2019) he killed me. We’ve played so many times, one day one wins, another day the other wins.”

However, Nadal said that he wasn’t thinking about equaling Federer’s 20 Grand Slam-mark as the Spaniard said that he wants to celebrate this triumph just as a Roland Garros victory while adding this win means “everything” to him.&nbsp;

“To win here means everything. I don’t think today about the 20th and equal Roger on this great number, today is just a Roland Garros victory and that means everything to me,” the world number two said.

“This love story I have with this city and this court is unforgettable.”&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Rafael Nadal on Sunday continued his domination at claycourt as the Spaniard defeated world no. one Novak Djokovic to win his 13 French Open title while equaling Roger Federer’s record of 20 Grand Slam wins.

Rafael Nadal on Sunday continued his domination at claycourt as the Spaniard defeated world no. one Novak Djokovic to win his 13 French Open title while equaling Roger Federer’s record of 20 Grand Slam wins. Nadal dominated the match from the word go as he bageled Djokovic in the opening set having made only two unforced errors. Not only did many former players congratulate the newly crowned Roland Garros winner, Nadal fans were overjoyed with the annihilation as they celebrated his 20th Grand Slam title by expressing their delight on social media platform Twitter. The hashtag '#GOAT' (Greatest of All Time) started trending as soon as Nadal completed the win. ALSO READ: Nadal defeats Djokovic to win 13th French Open, equals Federer's 20 Grand Slam wins pic.twitter.com/TzQhBeuwML — Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) October 11, 2020 × How it started: How it's going: @RafaelNadal #RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/6zfBuKADun — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) October 11, 2020 × Congratulations to the King of Clay @RafaelNadal. Winning 13 Slams in Paris is extraordinary, a fitting Grand Slam finale to a challenging year. You're an inspiration Rafa, gracious and great. Here’s to 20 majors. 🚀 — Rod Laver (@rodlaver) October 11, 2020 × 📆 2005: 🏆 @RafaelNadal wins his first Grand Slam at #RolandGarros 📆 2020: 🏆 @RafaelNadal wins his 13th #RolandGarros title, and his 20th Grand Slam. 👏 Insane longevity. pic.twitter.com/gCdFOTiPm3 — SPORF (@Sporf) October 11, 2020 × Congratulations @RafaelNadal for 13th French Open/20th Grandslam. 👏@DjokerNole better luck, fav !! ❤️ — Prateek Bhatta (@prb10_official) October 11, 2020 × #NadalGarros 13th Time French Open Champion, 20 Time GrandSlam Champion. #GOAT If only words could describe his excellence! Thank you #RafaelNadal #VamosRafa pic.twitter.com/pOnD3T9x8G — Sagar Bidri (@sagarbidri) October 11, 2020 × 🌟 GOAT 🌟 🇨🇭 ROGER FEDERER (20 GS) 🏆 🇦🇺 Australian Open (6) 🇫🇷 Roland Garros (1) 🇬🇧 Wimbledon (8) 🇺🇸 US Open (5) 🇪🇸 RAFAEL NADAL (20 GS) 🏆 🇦🇺 Australian Open (1) 🇫🇷 Roland Garros (13) 🇬🇧 Wimbledon (2) 🇺🇸 US Open (4) #RafaelNadal #RogerFederer #FrenchOpen2020 #FrenchOpen pic.twitter.com/NhQXy7Bu8r — Amul Butter Baby (@AmulButterBaby) October 11, 2020 × @RafaelNadal @rolandgarros 🎾❤️👏 pic.twitter.com/xpctMJ5bQD — Joan Blanusa (@jmblanusa) October 11, 2020 × Congrats to @RafaelNadal. Fantastic performance.👏👍👌#RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/f5WwE54TgR — Stephen Sarfo (@sarfosteve10) October 11, 2020 × Nadal also bagged his 100th win at Roland Garros with an ace. The final of French Open 2020 lasted just two hours and 43 wins as Nadal completed one of the dominating performances against Djokovic. Hailed as ‘King of Clay’, Nadal now has 13 French Open titles and also bageled Djokovic in the opening set that lasted only 45 minutes. “First of all of course congrats to Novak for another great tournament, sorry for today,” Nadal, who has now beaten Djokovic in all of their three French Open finals, said on court. ALSO READ: Fearless Swiatek continues transfer of power in women's tennis “In Australia (in the final in 2019) he killed me. We’ve played so many times, one day one wins, another day the other wins.” However, Nadal said that he wasn’t thinking about equaling Federer’s 20 Grand Slam-mark as the Spaniard said that he wants to celebrate this triumph just as a Roland Garros victory while adding this win means “everything” to him. “To win here means everything. I don’t think today about the 20th and equal Roger on this great number, today is just a Roland Garros victory and that means everything to me,” the world number two said. “This love story I have with this city and this court is unforgettable.”

GOAT! Social media erupts as Rafael Nadal wins his 20th Grand Slam title

Rafael Nadal on Sunday annihilated Novak Djokovic 6-0, 6-2, 7-5 to win his 13th French Open title while equaling Roger Federer’s all-time record of 20 Grand Slam titles. World no. one Djokovic’s hopes of 18th Slam and of becoming the first man to win all four majors twice since Rod Laver in 1969 were shattered as Nadal produced a breathtaking performance to dominate the Serb.

Rafael Nadal vs Novak Djokovic, French Open 2020 men's singles final result: Rafael Nadal (ESP x2) bt Novak Djokovic (SRB x1) 6-0, 6-2, 7-5&nbsp;

Nadal, 34, also claimed his 100th match win at Roland Garros against just two defeats since his 2005 debut. The Spanish ace hence becomes the oldest champion in Paris since Andres Gimeno in 1972 and that too without dropping a single set.

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Undisputed King 👑<a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> <a href="https://t.co/iUCcETcGEG">pic.twitter.com/iUCcETcGEG</a>
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/status/1315320419478536194?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Leading men'Djokovic, regarded as one of the toughest and grittiest players, looked clueless against Nadal with the Spaniard pulling off a sensational performance in the summit clash.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fearless-swiatek-continues-transfer-of-power-in-womens-tennis-334466" hreflang="en">Fearless Swiatek continues transfer of power in women's tennis</a>

With the Grand Slam win, Nadal became on the fifth singles tennis player to enter the 20-major club alongside Margaret Court (24), Serena Williams (23) and Steffi Graf (22). Federer already has 20 Grand Slam to his name.

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😉😉😉<a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RolandGarros</a> <a href="https://t.co/NTUJOq6d6q">pic.twitter.com/NTUJOq6d6q</a>
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/status/1315326005205229570?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The final of French Open 2020 lasted just two hours and 43 wins as Nadal completed one of the dominating performances against Djokovic. Hailed as ‘King of Clay’, Nadal now has 13 French Open titles and also bageled Djokovic in the opening set that lasted only 45 minutes. In what was a comprehensive win, Nadal had just two unforced errors and 10 winners.

<h2>Grand Slam title winners after Rafael Nadal beat Novak Djokovic in the French Open final on Sunday:</h2>

20 - Roger Federer (SUI)

20 - Rafael Nadal (ESP)

17 - Novak Djokovic (SRB)

14 - Pete Sampras (USA)

12 - Roy Emerson (AUS)

11 - Rod Laver (AUS), Bjorn Borg (SWE)

10 - Bill Tilden (USA) 
&nbsp;

Rafael Nadal on Sunday annihilated Novak Djokovic 6-0, 6-2, 7-5 to win his 13th French Open title while equaling Roger Federer’s all-time record of 20 Grand Slam titles.

Rafael Nadal on Sunday annihilated Novak Djokovic 6-0, 6-2, 7-5 to win his 13th French Open title while equaling Roger Federer’s all-time record of 20 Grand Slam titles. World no. one Djokovic’s hopes of 18th Slam and of becoming the first man to win all four majors twice since Rod Laver in 1969 were shattered as Nadal produced a breathtaking performance to dominate the Serb. Rafael Nadal vs Novak Djokovic, French Open 2020 men's singles final result: Rafael Nadal (ESP x2) bt Novak Djokovic (SRB x1) 6-0, 6-2, 7-5 Nadal, 34, also claimed his 100th match win at Roland Garros against just two defeats since his 2005 debut. The Spanish ace hence becomes the oldest champion in Paris since Andres Gimeno in 1972 and that too without dropping a single set. Undisputed King 👑@RafaelNadal #RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/iUCcETcGEG — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) October 11, 2020 × Leading men'Djokovic, regarded as one of the toughest and grittiest players, looked clueless against Nadal with the Spaniard pulling off a sensational performance in the summit clash. ALSO READ: Fearless Swiatek continues transfer of power in women's tennis With the Grand Slam win, Nadal became on the fifth singles tennis player to enter the 20-major club alongside Margaret Court (24), Serena Williams (23) and Steffi Graf (22). Federer already has 20 Grand Slam to his name. 😉😉😉@RafaelNadal @RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/NTUJOq6d6q — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) October 11, 2020 × The final of French Open 2020 lasted just two hours and 43 wins as Nadal completed one of the dominating performances against Djokovic. Hailed as ‘King of Clay’, Nadal now has 13 French Open titles and also bageled Djokovic in the opening set that lasted only 45 minutes. In what was a comprehensive win, Nadal had just two unforced errors and 10 winners. Grand Slam title winners after Rafael Nadal beat Novak Djokovic in the French Open final on Sunday: 20 - Roger Federer (SUI) 20 - Rafael Nadal (ESP) 17 - Novak Djokovic (SRB) 14 - Pete Sampras (USA) 12 - Roy Emerson (AUS) 11 - Rod Laver (AUS), Bjorn Borg (SWE) 10 - Bill Tilden (USA)

Nadal defeats Djokovic to win 13th French Open, equals Federer's 20 Grand Slam wins

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic takes on Spaniard Rafael Nadal in the final of French Open 2020 at the Court Philippe-Chatrier on Sunday. This the eighth time that both aces will be playing against each other in Paris.

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic takes on Spaniard Rafael Nadal in the final of French Open 2020 at the Court Philippe-Chatrier on Sunday. This the eighth time that both aces will be playing against each other in Paris. Nadal currently leads the head-to-head on clay 6-1 against Djokovic. Also read: Iga Swiatek wins French Open 2020 to become Poland's first Grand Slam singles champion In terms of ATP Head2Head encounter, Djokovic leads the head-to-head tally (29-26) against Nadal. “I've played [Rafa] more than I [have] played any other player in my professional career,” said Djokovic. “Our head-to-head is the biggest head-to-head ever in the history of the sport. The amount of matches we played is almost 60 matches… He's definitely my greatest rival.” ”To play against Novak, I need to play my best. Without playing my best tennis, [the] situation is very difficult,” said Nadal. “I know this is a court that I have been playing well [on] for such a long time, so that helps. But at the same time, he has an amazing record here too, being in the final rounds almost every single time." Djokovic is looking forward to becoming the first man in the Open Era to win all four Grand Slam titles on multiple occasions, whereas, Nadal aims to equal Federer’s Grand Slam titles record. He already holds the record of winning 12 Roland Garros title. He is one match shy to become the first player to win 100 matches at Roland Garros. Where to watch FRENCH OPEN Final between Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic LIVE streaming? In India, French Open will be broadcasted LIVE on Star Sports 2 and Star Sports Select 2. The tournament will also be streamed LIVE on Disney+ Hotstar. What time FRENCH OPEN Final between Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic is scheduled for? Novak Djokovic vs Rafael Nadal Live Streaming at 6:30 PM (IST)

French Open 2020, Novak Djokovic vs Rafael Nadal: Preview, how to watch online and more

While Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic square off for the 56th time in the men's French Open final, the women's game is in the throes of a youthful revolution as Iga Swiatek was crowned its latest first-time Grand Slam champion.

The 19-year-old ensured her place in history as Poland's first major singles champion on Saturday, becoming the ninth woman in 14 tournaments to secure her maiden Slam title.

Swiatek, who used the coronavirus lockdown to complete her graduation exam, has toyed with the idea of continuing her studies, but will surely now go the same route as her vanquished opponent in the Roland Garros final.&nbsp;

Sofia Kenin, 21, turned down a scholarship to the University of Miami in 2017 after holding her own against Maria Sharapova in the third round of that year's US Open.

She went on to win the Australian Open in January and narrowly missed out on becoming the first woman to capture two majors in the same season since Angelique Kerber in 2016.

Her Melbourne triumph followed Bianca Andreescu's breakout performance at last year's US Open, the Canadian taking home the title on her main draw debut in New York.

Since Serena Williams collected the last of her 23 Slam crowns at the 2017 Australian Open, the likes of Simona Halep, Sloane Stephens and the now-retired Caroline Wozniacki have all gone on to land a breakthrough major.

However, the 29-year-old Halep is the outlier in a series of recent major winners, seven of eight who were aged 23 or under at the time.

Kenin, Andreescu and Swiatek have accounted for three with Naomi Osaka grabbing three titles of her own, and top-ranked Ashleigh Barty triumphing at the 2019 French Open.

The average age of champions in that time is 21.5. By comparison,&nbsp;the average age of the eight previous Slam winners was 27.4.

"For sure it's inspiring. I know that there are no limits. Even though you're really young and you're an underdog, you can do a lot in a sport like tennis," said Swiatek.

<h2>- 'First of many' says Laver -</h2>

Multiple Grand Slam winner Mats Wilander compared Swiatek's game to that of Novak Djokovic, while greats of the past such as Rod Laver and Chris Evert believe the young Pole is just getting started. &nbsp;

"I think she is there to be a Grand Slam champion, multiple times. I genuinely believe that Iga can be the one," Wilander told Eurosport.

Laver hailed Swiatek's "nerveless performance" in what was only her second tour-level final and tweeted it was "the first of many majors to come".

Evert, who won seven times in Paris, wrote: "What a sterling two weeks of brilliant tennis. Many, many more GS Titles to come." She also paid tribute to a "great year" for Kenin, 16-2 at Slams in 2020.

As Williams, who withdrew in Paris with an Achilles injury, continues her pursuit of Margaret Court's record 24 majors, the window of opportunity for the 39-year-old is closing with a number of young players rising to prominence.

"I think it's great. A new generation coming up," said Kenin. "It's always good to see youngsters taking over and playing great tennis."

Former US Open finalist Pam Shriver believes Swiatek and Kenin could become the leading faces of the next generation. &nbsp;

"We're always wondering where the next great rivalry is going to be. Well, let's just wonder about this one because they are two years apart," she told rolandgarros.com.

Swiatek hoisted the trophy after swatting aside all comers in swashbuckling style, the first women's champion to win the tournament without a dropping a set since Justine Henin in 2007.

Like surprise 2017 French Open winner Jelena Ostapenko, it also represented her first title at tour level -- and she is eager to back it up, unlike the Latvian who has yet to return to the same heights.

"I know my game isn't developed perfectly. I think the biggest change for me is going to be to be consistent. I think this is what women's tennis is struggling with," said Swiatek, an avowed fan of Rafael Nadal.

"That's why we have so many new Grand Slam winners because we are not, like, as consistent as Rafa, Roger (Federer), and Novak."

While Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic square off for the 56th time in the men's French Open final, the women's game is in the throes of a youthful revolution as Iga Swiatek was crowned its latest first-time Grand Slam champion.

While Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic square off for the 56th time in the men's French Open final, the women's game is in the throes of a youthful revolution as Iga Swiatek was crowned its latest first-time Grand Slam champion. The 19-year-old ensured her place in history as Poland's first major singles champion on Saturday, becoming the ninth woman in 14 tournaments to secure her maiden Slam title. Swiatek, who used the coronavirus lockdown to complete her graduation exam, has toyed with the idea of continuing her studies, but will surely now go the same route as her vanquished opponent in the Roland Garros final. Sofia Kenin, 21, turned down a scholarship to the University of Miami in 2017 after holding her own against Maria Sharapova in the third round of that year's US Open. She went on to win the Australian Open in January and narrowly missed out on becoming the first woman to capture two majors in the same season since Angelique Kerber in 2016. Her Melbourne triumph followed Bianca Andreescu's breakout performance at last year's US Open, the Canadian taking home the title on her main draw debut in New York. Since Serena Williams collected the last of her 23 Slam crowns at the 2017 Australian Open, the likes of Simona Halep, Sloane Stephens and the now-retired Caroline Wozniacki have all gone on to land a breakthrough major. However, the 29-year-old Halep is the outlier in a series of recent major winners, seven of eight who were aged 23 or under at the time. Kenin, Andreescu and Swiatek have accounted for three with Naomi Osaka grabbing three titles of her own, and top-ranked Ashleigh Barty triumphing at the 2019 French Open. The average age of champions in that time is 21.5. By comparison, the average age of the eight previous Slam winners was 27.4. "For sure it's inspiring. I know that there are no limits. Even though you're really young and you're an underdog, you can do a lot in a sport like tennis," said Swiatek. - 'First of many' says Laver - Multiple Grand Slam winner Mats Wilander compared Swiatek's game to that of Novak Djokovic, while greats of the past such as Rod Laver and Chris Evert believe the young Pole is just getting started. "I think she is there to be a Grand Slam champion, multiple times. I genuinely believe that Iga can be the one," Wilander told Eurosport. Laver hailed Swiatek's "nerveless performance" in what was only her second tour-level final and tweeted it was "the first of many majors to come". Evert, who won seven times in Paris, wrote: "What a sterling two weeks of brilliant tennis. Many, many more GS Titles to come." She also paid tribute to a "great year" for Kenin, 16-2 at Slams in 2020. As Williams, who withdrew in Paris with an Achilles injury, continues her pursuit of Margaret Court's record 24 majors, the window of opportunity for the 39-year-old is closing with a number of young players rising to prominence. "I think it's great. A new generation coming up," said Kenin. "It's always good to see youngsters taking over and playing great tennis." Former US Open finalist Pam Shriver believes Swiatek and Kenin could become the leading faces of the next generation. "We're always wondering where the next great rivalry is going to be. Well, let's just wonder about this one because they are two years apart," she told rolandgarros.com. Swiatek hoisted the trophy after swatting aside all comers in swashbuckling style, the first women's champion to win the tournament without a dropping a set since Justine Henin in 2007. Like surprise 2017 French Open winner Jelena Ostapenko, it also represented her first title at tour level -- and she is eager to back it up, unlike the Latvian who has yet to return to the same heights. "I know my game isn't developed perfectly. I think the biggest change for me is going to be to be consistent. I think this is what women's tennis is struggling with," said Swiatek, an avowed fan of Rafael Nadal. "That's why we have so many new Grand Slam winners because we are not, like, as consistent as Rafa, Roger (Federer), and Novak."

Fearless Swiatek continues transfer of power in women's tennis

Polish teenager Iga Swiatek on Saturday won her country’s first-ever Grand Slam singles titles after defeating American fourth seed Sofia Kenin 6-4, 6-1 to become the youngest women to win French Open since 1992.

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A celebration of historic proportions 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/iga_swiatek?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iga_swiatek</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> <a href="https://t.co/XiNnTLOCSj">pic.twitter.com/XiNnTLOCSj</a>
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The 19-year-old Swiatek, ranked 54, became the second-lowest ranked women’s Roland Garros finalist in the modern era and followed it by becoming the ninth first-time major champion in previous 14 Grand Slam.

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Etched in the history books forever.<a href="https://twitter.com/iga_swiatek?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iga_swiatek</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> <a href="https://t.co/sv5kQpECNj">pic.twitter.com/sv5kQpECNj</a>
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The youngster didn’t drop a single set throughout the tournament at the claycourt and became the youngest winner since Monica Seles lifted the Suzanne Lenglen Cup in 1992.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/djokovic-to-face-nadal-in-french-open-final-blockbuster-but-not-biggest-match-334251" hreflang="en">Djokovic to face Nadal in French Open final blockbuster</a>

“I’m so happy. I’m so happy my family was here finally. It was overwhelming for me,” said world number 54 Swiatek, the lowest-ranked player to win the women’s title at Roland Garros since WTA rankings were introduced in 1975.

“Two years ago I won a junior Grand Slam and now I’m here. It feels like such a short time. I’m just overwhelmed,” she added as a sorry Kenin watched from her chair in tears.

Kennin looked solid upfront but received an off-court medical treatment on her left thigh after the third game of the second set. She won only three points after coming back on court as relentless Swiatek raced to the title.&nbsp;

She is the first player not to drop a set en route to the women’s title here since Belgium’s Justine Henin in 2007.

French Open 2020, women's singles result: Iga Swiatek (POL) bt Sofia Kenin (USA x4) 6-4, 6-1 
&nbsp;

Polish teenager Iga Swiatek on Saturday won her country’s first-ever Grand Slam singles titles after defeating American fourth seed Sofia Kenin 6-4, 6-1 to become the youngest women to win French Open since 1992.

Polish teenager Iga Swiatek on Saturday won her country’s first-ever Grand Slam singles titles after defeating American fourth seed Sofia Kenin 6-4, 6-1 to become the youngest women to win French Open since 1992. A celebration of historic proportions 👏@iga_swiatek #RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/XiNnTLOCSj — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) October 10, 2020 × The 19-year-old Swiatek, ranked 54, became the second-lowest ranked women’s Roland Garros finalist in the modern era and followed it by becoming the ninth first-time major champion in previous 14 Grand Slam. Etched in the history books forever.@iga_swiatek #RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/sv5kQpECNj — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) October 10, 2020 × The youngster didn’t drop a single set throughout the tournament at the claycourt and became the youngest winner since Monica Seles lifted the Suzanne Lenglen Cup in 1992. ALSO READ: Djokovic to face Nadal in French Open final blockbuster “I’m so happy. I’m so happy my family was here finally. It was overwhelming for me,” said world number 54 Swiatek, the lowest-ranked player to win the women’s title at Roland Garros since WTA rankings were introduced in 1975. “Two years ago I won a junior Grand Slam and now I’m here. It feels like such a short time. I’m just overwhelmed,” she added as a sorry Kenin watched from her chair in tears. Kennin looked solid upfront but received an off-court medical treatment on her left thigh after the third game of the second set. She won only three points after coming back on court as relentless Swiatek raced to the title. She is the first player not to drop a set en route to the women’s title here since Belgium’s Justine Henin in 2007. French Open 2020, women's singles result: Iga Swiatek (POL) bt Sofia Kenin (USA x4) 6-4, 6-1

Iga Swiatek wins French Open 2020 to become Poland's first Grand Slam singles champion

Novak Djokovic set up a blockbuster French Open title showdown with Rafael Nadal after a dramatic five-set semi-final victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas, but insisted Sunday's eagerly-awaited championship duel will "not be the biggest match of my life."

World number one Djokovic, the 2016 champion at Roland Garros, reached his fifth final in Paris, defeating Greek fifth seed Tsitsipas 6-3, 6-2, 5-7, 4-6, 6-1 in a roller-coaster of a contest where he had held a match point in the third set.

Nadal, the 12-time champion, eased past Diego Schwartzman 6-3, 6-3, 7-6 (7/0) to make a 13th final at the tournament.

On Sunday, Djokovic can win an 18th major and become the first man in half a century to win all four Slams twice.

Nadal, the world number two, can equal Roger Federer's all-time record of 20 Grand Slam title wins.

Djokovic is one of only two men to have defeated Nadal at Roland Garros in 15 years.

"This is the house of Rafa," said Djokovic ahead of the pair's 56th career clash and his 27th appearance in a Slam final.&nbsp;

"I will have the motivation to win. I beat him in the quarter-finals in 2015 but this will be the biggest challenge - playing Nadal on clay."

However, the Serb insisted that he has played far more significant finals and pointed to his first win over Nadal at a Slam at Wimbledon in 2011.

"I don't think it's the biggest match that I have ever played in my life. I think there were some bigger ones," Djokovic said as he attempted to ease some of the expectations ahead of Sunday.

&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Wimbledon win more important' -</h2>

"In terms of importance, probably the first Wimbledon final that I actually played against him.&nbsp;

"Wimbledon was always the one that I wanted to win as a kid and dreamed of winning. That's probably the one that stands out."

Djokovic also put his 2016 Paris final win over Andy Murray, which allowed him to celebrate a career Grand Slam, above Sunday's latest instalment of his Nadal rivalry.

"Every French Open final that I played was the match of my life before I actually won it."

On Friday, Djokovic showed no sign of the neck and shoulder injuries which blighted his performance against Pablo Carreno Busta in the last eight as he stormed into a comfortable two-set lead.

Tsitsipas had seen 10 break points come and go and his first Roland Garros semi-final looked to be heading for an early finish until he staged a stunning comeback.

In the 10th game of the third set, Djokovic was unable to convert a match point.

He then picked up a time violation and the Greek exploited the top seed's sudden unease to claim the third set.

Djokovic squandered a huge 10 break points in the fourth set as Tsitsipas, who had also been two sets down in his opening match against Jaume Munar, levelled the tie.

However, Tsitsipas, feeling a thigh injury picked up in Rome, faded away in the decider, dropping serve twice to hand Djokovic a 4-1 lead.

He saved another match point but was powerless on the third as Djokovic fired a clean winner.

&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Toughest opponent' -</h2>

"I think Novak is one of the most difficult opponents I've faced in my entire life," said Tsitsipas.

For 34-year-old Nadal, his win over Schwartzman was his 99th at Roland Garros.

He is into his 28th final at the majors and has not dropped a set in the tournament this year.

Nadal has a 6-1 career edge of Djokovic at Roland Garros although their last meeting was in 2015 when Djokovic won in straight sets in the quarter-finals.

Amongst their five other meetings in the French capital were wins for Nadal in the 2012 and 2014 finals.

"Novak is one of the toughest opponents possible. But I am here to keep trying my best. I like to play in this scenario," said Nadal.

"I know I have to make a step forward. I think I did one today against Diego. But for Sunday it is not enough.&nbsp;

"I need to make another one. That's what I'm looking for. I going to work hard to try to make that happen."&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic set up a blockbuster French Open title showdown with Rafael Nadal after a dramatic five-set semi-final victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas, but insisted Sunday's eagerly-awaited championship duel will "not be the biggest match of my life.

Novak Djokovic set up a blockbuster French Open title showdown with Rafael Nadal after a dramatic five-set semi-final victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas, but insisted Sunday's eagerly-awaited championship duel will "not be the biggest match of my life." World number one Djokovic, the 2016 champion at Roland Garros, reached his fifth final in Paris, defeating Greek fifth seed Tsitsipas 6-3, 6-2, 5-7, 4-6, 6-1 in a roller-coaster of a contest where he had held a match point in the third set. Nadal, the 12-time champion, eased past Diego Schwartzman 6-3, 6-3, 7-6 (7/0) to make a 13th final at the tournament. On Sunday, Djokovic can win an 18th major and become the first man in half a century to win all four Slams twice. Nadal, the world number two, can equal Roger Federer's all-time record of 20 Grand Slam title wins. Djokovic is one of only two men to have defeated Nadal at Roland Garros in 15 years. "This is the house of Rafa," said Djokovic ahead of the pair's 56th career clash and his 27th appearance in a Slam final. "I will have the motivation to win. I beat him in the quarter-finals in 2015 but this will be the biggest challenge - playing Nadal on clay." However, the Serb insisted that he has played far more significant finals and pointed to his first win over Nadal at a Slam at Wimbledon in 2011. "I don't think it's the biggest match that I have ever played in my life. I think there were some bigger ones," Djokovic said as he attempted to ease some of the expectations ahead of Sunday. - 'Wimbledon win more important' - "In terms of importance, probably the first Wimbledon final that I actually played against him. "Wimbledon was always the one that I wanted to win as a kid and dreamed of winning. That's probably the one that stands out." Djokovic also put his 2016 Paris final win over Andy Murray, which allowed him to celebrate a career Grand Slam, above Sunday's latest instalment of his Nadal rivalry. "Every French Open final that I played was the match of my life before I actually won it." On Friday, Djokovic showed no sign of the neck and shoulder injuries which blighted his performance against Pablo Carreno Busta in the last eight as he stormed into a comfortable two-set lead. Tsitsipas had seen 10 break points come and go and his first Roland Garros semi-final looked to be heading for an early finish until he staged a stunning comeback. In the 10th game of the third set, Djokovic was unable to convert a match point. He then picked up a time violation and the Greek exploited the top seed's sudden unease to claim the third set. Djokovic squandered a huge 10 break points in the fourth set as Tsitsipas, who had also been two sets down in his opening match against Jaume Munar, levelled the tie. However, Tsitsipas, feeling a thigh injury picked up in Rome, faded away in the decider, dropping serve twice to hand Djokovic a 4-1 lead. He saved another match point but was powerless on the third as Djokovic fired a clean winner. - 'Toughest opponent' - "I think Novak is one of the most difficult opponents I've faced in my entire life," said Tsitsipas. For 34-year-old Nadal, his win over Schwartzman was his 99th at Roland Garros. He is into his 28th final at the majors and has not dropped a set in the tournament this year. Nadal has a 6-1 career edge of Djokovic at Roland Garros although their last meeting was in 2015 when Djokovic won in straight sets in the quarter-finals. Amongst their five other meetings in the French capital were wins for Nadal in the 2012 and 2014 finals. "Novak is one of the toughest opponents possible. But I am here to keep trying my best. I like to play in this scenario," said Nadal. "I know I have to make a step forward. I think I did one today against Diego. But for Sunday it is not enough. "I need to make another one. That's what I'm looking for. I going to work hard to try to make that happen."

Djokovic to face Nadal in French Open final blockbuster, but not 'biggest match'

Rafael Nadal on Friday defeated Diego Schwartzman&nbsp;6-3, 6-3, 7-6 (0) in the semi-final of ongoing Roland Garros 2020 to qualify to the final of the Grand Slam event where the Spaniard will take on the winner of the match between Novak Djokovic and Stefanos Tsitsipas.&nbsp;

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Nadal, a 12-time French Open winner, reached his 13th Roland Garros final after defeating Argentina's Diego Schwartzman, while setting up a potential blockbuster encounter against world no. one Novak Djokovic.&nbsp;

The 34-year-old completed his 99th win at Roland Garros since his debut in 2005 and is now one win away from equalising Roger Federer's all-time record of 20 Grand Slam titles. The Spaniard also qualified for his 28th final at the majors.

Whereas, Djokovic, the winner of 2016 French Open, is chasing his 18th Grand Slam title and will take on Greek fifth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in the second semi-final on Friday.

The world number one has a major record in the making, should he qualify for Sunday's final as he looks to become the first matn in half a century to win all four Grand Slams twice.

Rafael Nadal on Friday defeated Diego Schwartzman 6-3, 6-3, 7-6 (0) in the semi-final of ongoing Roland Garros 2020 to qualify to the final of the Grand Slam event where the Spaniard will take on the winner of the match between Novak Djokovic and Stefanos Tsitsipas.

Rafael Nadal on Friday defeated Diego Schwartzman 6-3, 6-3, 7-6 (0) in the semi-final of ongoing Roland Garros 2020 to qualify to the final of the Grand Slam event where the Spaniard will take on the winner of the match between Novak Djokovic and Stefanos Tsitsipas. The King has Returned#RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/A48K4lgjcB — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) October 9, 2020 × Nadal, a 12-time French Open winner, reached his 13th Roland Garros final after defeating Argentina's Diego Schwartzman, while setting up a potential blockbuster encounter against world no. one Novak Djokovic. The 34-year-old completed his 99th win at Roland Garros since his debut in 2005 and is now one win away from equalising Roger Federer's all-time record of 20 Grand Slam titles. The Spaniard also qualified for his 28th final at the majors. Whereas, Djokovic, the winner of 2016 French Open, is chasing his 18th Grand Slam title and will take on Greek fifth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in the second semi-final on Friday. The world number one has a major record in the making, should he qualify for Sunday's final as he looks to become the first matn in half a century to win all four Grand Slams twice.

Rafael Nadal defeats Diego Schwartzman to qualify for his 13th French Open final

Rafael Nadal is set to lock horns with Diego Schwartzman in the first semi-final of French Open 2020 with the match promising to be a thrilling contest.

The match between Nadal and Schwartzman will be played at the Philippe Chatrier Court on October 9 (Friday) as the Spanish ace eyes his 19th Grand Slam title and a record 13th trophy at the Roland Garros.

Nadal and Schwartzman have played against each other 10 times. But it is Nadal who have dominated the head-to-head encounters with nine wins under his belt as compared to Argentine’s one.

However, a major shock could be on cards given Schwartzman defeated Nadal at the Rome Masters in September and hardcore Nadal fans would be hoping that the Spaniard gets his revenge on Friday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-djokovic-vs-tsitsipas-preview-and-where-to-watch-it-online-333930" hreflang="en">French Open, Djokovic vs Tsitsipas: Preview and where to watch it online</a>

<h2>When and where will the French Open 2020 Rafael Nadal vs Diego Schwartzman men’s singles semi-final match be played?&nbsp;</h2>

Rafael Nadal vs Diego Schwartzman semi-final match in men’s singles of French Open 2020 will be played at the Philippe-Chatrier court in Roland Garros at a tentative start time of 06:20 pm IST.&nbsp;

<h2>Where to watch the live telecast of French Open 2020 Rafael Nadal vs Diego Schwartzman men’s singles semi-final match?&nbsp;</h2>

The French Open 2020 match between Rafael Nadal and Diego Schwartzman will be live on Star Sports 2/HD, Star Sports Select 2/HD.

<h2>Where to watch live streaming of French Open 2020 match between Rafael Nadal and Diego Schwartzman men’s singles semi-final?</h2>

Fans can tune into Disney+ Hotstar to watch Rafael Nadal vs Diego Schwartzman match in French Open 2020.

Rafael Nadal is set to lock horns with Diego Schwartzman in the first semi-final of French Open 2020 with the match promising to be a thrilling contest. The match between Nadal and Schwartzman will be played at the Philippe Chatrier Court on October 9 (Friday) as the Spanish ace eyes his 19th Grand Slam title and a record 13th trophy at the Roland Garros.

Rafael Nadal is set to lock horns with Diego Schwartzman in the first semi-final of French Open 2020 with the match promising to be a thrilling contest. The match between Nadal and Schwartzman will be played at the Philippe Chatrier Court on October 9 (Friday) as the Spanish ace eyes his 19th Grand Slam title and a record 13th trophy at the Roland Garros. Nadal and Schwartzman have played against each other 10 times. But it is Nadal who have dominated the head-to-head encounters with nine wins under his belt as compared to Argentine’s one. However, a major shock could be on cards given Schwartzman defeated Nadal at the Rome Masters in September and hardcore Nadal fans would be hoping that the Spaniard gets his revenge on Friday. ALSO READ: French Open, Djokovic vs Tsitsipas: Preview and where to watch it online When and where will the French Open 2020 Rafael Nadal vs Diego Schwartzman men’s singles semi-final match be played? Rafael Nadal vs Diego Schwartzman semi-final match in men’s singles of French Open 2020 will be played at the Philippe-Chatrier court in Roland Garros at a tentative start time of 06:20 pm IST. Where to watch the live telecast of French Open 2020 Rafael Nadal vs Diego Schwartzman men’s singles semi-final match? The French Open 2020 match between Rafael Nadal and Diego Schwartzman will be live on Star Sports 2/HD, Star Sports Select 2/HD. Where to watch live streaming of French Open 2020 match between Rafael Nadal and Diego Schwartzman men’s singles semi-final? Fans can tune into Disney+ Hotstar to watch Rafael Nadal vs Diego Schwartzman match in French Open 2020.

Rafael Nadal vs Diego Schwartzman, French Open 2020: Preview, Live streaming and telecast details

Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal, with 36 Grand Slam titles between them, are both just two wins away from creating more tennis history at Roland Garros but standing in the way in Friday's semi-finals are Stefanos Tsitsipas and Diego Schwartzman.

Tsitsipas is the first Greek player to reach the last four in Paris while the diminutive Argentine has put sport in perspective this week with his moving story of how his great-grandfather survived the Holocaust.

&nbsp;

<h2>Novak Djokovic (SRB x1) v Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE x5)</h2>

Head-to-head: Djokovic leads 3-2

-- Djokovic is chasing a second Roland Garros title and 18th Grand Slam to become the first man in half a century to win all four majors twice. It's such a rare achievement that only Don Budge and Rod Laver have managed it in the history of the sport.

The world number one has four titles in 2020, carved out from 36 wins and just one loss - his now infamous default at the US Open.

However, is the pressure beginning to tell? He dropped his first set of the tournament in his win over Pablo Carreno Busta in the quarter-finals and required treatment on his neck and shoulders.&nbsp;

"I had some neck and shoulder issues. I don't really want to get too much into it. I'm feeling okay," said the 33-year-old who was champion in Paris in 2016.

Djokovic is bidding to make the final for the fifth time and a 27th at the Slams.

Tsitsipas, 22 and playing in his second semi-final at the majors having also reached the last four at the 2019 Australian Open, has got stronger as the tournament has progressed.

After dropping the first two sets of his opener against Jaume Munar, he has swept the next 15.

Tsitsipas is bidding to become the youngest man to reach the Roland Garros final since 2008, when Nadal won the title and youngest to reach a Grand Slam championship match since the 2009 US Open, when Juan Martin del Potro won the title, 10 days short of his 21st birthday.

The Greek has only met Djokovic once on clay, a straight sets loss in the 2019 Madrid final.

"An opponent is an opponent. Doesn't matter if he is injured or not," said Tsitsipas of Djokovic.

&nbsp;

<h2>Paths to the semi-finals (x denotes seeded player)</h2>

Djokovic

1st rd: bt Mikael Ymer (SWE) 6-0, 6-2, 6-3

2nd rd: bt Ricardas Berankis (LTU) 6-1, 6-2, 6-2

3rd rd: bt Daniel Galan (COL) 6-0, 6-3, 6-2

4th rd: bt Karen Khachanov (RUS x15) 6-4, 6-3, 6-3

QF: &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;bt Pablo Carreno Busta (ESP x17) 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, 6-4

Tsitsipas

1st rd: bt Jaume Munar (ESP) 4-6, 2-6, 6-1, 6-4, 6-4

2nd rd: bt Pablo Cuevas (URU) 6-1, 6-4, 6-2

3rd rd: bt Aljaz Bedene (SLO) 6-1, 6-2, 3-1 - retired

4th rd: bt Grigor Dimitrov (BUL x18) 6-3, 7-6 (11/9), 6-2

QF: &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;bt Andrey Rublev (RUS x13) 7-5, 6-2, 6-3

&nbsp;

<h2>Diego Schwartzman (ARG x12) v Rafael Nadal (ESP x2)</h2>

Head-to-head: Nadal leads 9-1

-- Nadal, the 12-time champion, arrived in Paris virtually writing off his chances of equalling Roger Federer's all-time record of 20 Grand Slam titles.

However, the 34-year-old stands on the brink of a 13th Roland Garros final without dropping a set and having spent three and a half hours fewer than Schwartzman in getting to the semi-finals.

He remains cautious over his chances at a tournament being played in the cold and chill of autumn rather than its traditional May-June slot and after finishing his quarter-final against Jannik Sinner at 01:30 on Wednesday morning, he said it was "dangerous for the body with these very heavy conditions".

Nadal's late night on Tuesday was mostly caused by Schwartzman needing more than five hours to defeat US Open champion and third seed Dominic Thiem in five sets to reach his maiden semi-final at the majors.

By contrast, Nadal is in his 34th.

However, Schwartzman will be buoyed by defeating Nadal for the first time in 10 attempts on clay in Rome on the eve of Roland Garros.

Affectionately known as "El Peque" ("shorty"), 28-year-old Schwartzman is a mere 5ft 6in (1.68m) and the smallest player in the world's top 50.

"I was perfect today. I think I'm going to be perfect in semi-final," said Schwartzman, having won his first Grand Slam quarter-final after three previous failures.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<h2>Paths to the semi-finals (x denotes seeded player)</h2>

Schwartzman

1st rd: bt Miomir Kecmanovic (SRB) 6-0, 6-1, 6-3

2nd rd: bt Lorenzo Giustino (ITA) 6-1, 7-5, 6-0

3rd rd: bt Norbert Gombos (SVK) 7-6 (7/3), 6-3, 6-3

4th rd: bt Lorenzo Sonego (ITA) 6-1, 6-3, 6-4

QF: &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;bt Dominic Thiem (AUT x3) 7-6 (7/1), 5-7, 6-7 (6/8), 7-6 (7/5), 6-2

&nbsp;

Nadal

1st rd: bt Egor Gerasimov (BLR) 6-4, 6-4, 6-2

2nd rd: bt Mackenzie McDonald (USA) 6-1, 6-0, 6-3

3rd rd: bt Stefano Travaglia (ITA) 6-1, 6-4, 6-0

4th rd: bt Sebastian Korda (USA) 6-1, 6-1, 6-2

QF: &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;bt Jannik Sinner (ITA) 7-6 (7/4), 6-4, 6-1

Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal, with 36 Grand Slam titles between them, are both just two wins away from creating more tennis history at Roland Garros but standing in the way in Friday's semi-finals are Stefanos Tsitsipas and Diego Schwartzman.

Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal, with 36 Grand Slam titles between them, are both just two wins away from creating more tennis history at Roland Garros but standing in the way in Friday's semi-finals are Stefanos Tsitsipas and Diego Schwartzman. Tsitsipas is the first Greek player to reach the last four in Paris while the diminutive Argentine has put sport in perspective this week with his moving story of how his great-grandfather survived the Holocaust. Novak Djokovic (SRB x1) v Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE x5) Head-to-head: Djokovic leads 3-2 -- Djokovic is chasing a second Roland Garros title and 18th Grand Slam to become the first man in half a century to win all four majors twice. It's such a rare achievement that only Don Budge and Rod Laver have managed it in the history of the sport. The world number one has four titles in 2020, carved out from 36 wins and just one loss - his now infamous default at the US Open. However, is the pressure beginning to tell? He dropped his first set of the tournament in his win over Pablo Carreno Busta in the quarter-finals and required treatment on his neck and shoulders. "I had some neck and shoulder issues. I don't really want to get too much into it. I'm feeling okay," said the 33-year-old who was champion in Paris in 2016. Djokovic is bidding to make the final for the fifth time and a 27th at the Slams. Tsitsipas, 22 and playing in his second semi-final at the majors having also reached the last four at the 2019 Australian Open, has got stronger as the tournament has progressed. After dropping the first two sets of his opener against Jaume Munar, he has swept the next 15. Tsitsipas is bidding to become the youngest man to reach the Roland Garros final since 2008, when Nadal won the title and youngest to reach a Grand Slam championship match since the 2009 US Open, when Juan Martin del Potro won the title, 10 days short of his 21st birthday. The Greek has only met Djokovic once on clay, a straight sets loss in the 2019 Madrid final. "An opponent is an opponent. Doesn't matter if he is injured or not," said Tsitsipas of Djokovic. Paths to the semi-finals (x denotes seeded player) Djokovic 1st rd: bt Mikael Ymer (SWE) 6-0, 6-2, 6-3 2nd rd: bt Ricardas Berankis (LTU) 6-1, 6-2, 6-2 3rd rd: bt Daniel Galan (COL) 6-0, 6-3, 6-2 4th rd: bt Karen Khachanov (RUS x15) 6-4, 6-3, 6-3 QF: bt Pablo Carreno Busta (ESP x17) 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, 6-4 Tsitsipas 1st rd: bt Jaume Munar (ESP) 4-6, 2-6, 6-1, 6-4, 6-4 2nd rd: bt Pablo Cuevas (URU) 6-1, 6-4, 6-2 3rd rd: bt Aljaz Bedene (SLO) 6-1, 6-2, 3-1 - retired 4th rd: bt Grigor Dimitrov (BUL x18) 6-3, 7-6 (11/9), 6-2 QF: bt Andrey Rublev (RUS x13) 7-5, 6-2, 6-3 Diego Schwartzman (ARG x12) v Rafael Nadal (ESP x2) Head-to-head: Nadal leads 9-1 -- Nadal, the 12-time champion, arrived in Paris virtually writing off his chances of equalling Roger Federer's all-time record of 20 Grand Slam titles. However, the 34-year-old stands on the brink of a 13th Roland Garros final without dropping a set and having spent three and a half hours fewer than Schwartzman in getting to the semi-finals. He remains cautious over his chances at a tournament being played in the cold and chill of autumn rather than its traditional May-June slot and after finishing his quarter-final against Jannik Sinner at 01:30 on Wednesday morning, he said it was "dangerous for the body with these very heavy conditions". Nadal's late night on Tuesday was mostly caused by Schwartzman needing more than five hours to defeat US Open champion and third seed Dominic Thiem in five sets to reach his maiden semi-final at the majors. By contrast, Nadal is in his 34th. However, Schwartzman will be buoyed by defeating Nadal for the first time in 10 attempts on clay in Rome on the eve of Roland Garros. Affectionately known as "El Peque" ("shorty"), 28-year-old Schwartzman is a mere 5ft 6in (1.68m) and the smallest player in the world's top 50. "I was perfect today. I think I'm going to be perfect in semi-final," said Schwartzman, having won his first Grand Slam quarter-final after three previous failures. Paths to the semi-finals (x denotes seeded player) Schwartzman 1st rd: bt Miomir Kecmanovic (SRB) 6-0, 6-1, 6-3 2nd rd: bt Lorenzo Giustino (ITA) 6-1, 7-5, 6-0 3rd rd: bt Norbert Gombos (SVK) 7-6 (7/3), 6-3, 6-3 4th rd: bt Lorenzo Sonego (ITA) 6-1, 6-3, 6-4 QF: bt Dominic Thiem (AUT x3) 7-6 (7/1), 5-7, 6-7 (6/8), 7-6 (7/5), 6-2 Nadal 1st rd: bt Egor Gerasimov (BLR) 6-4, 6-4, 6-2 2nd rd: bt Mackenzie McDonald (USA) 6-1, 6-0, 6-3 3rd rd: bt Stefano Travaglia (ITA) 6-1, 6-4, 6-0 4th rd: bt Sebastian Korda (USA) 6-1, 6-1, 6-2 QF: bt Jannik Sinner (ITA) 7-6 (7/4), 6-4, 6-1

Djokovic, Nadal face new-look Roland Garros road blocks

Sofia Kenin defeated Petra Kvitova 6-4, 7-5 to reach the French Open final on Thursday and will attempt to capture a second Grand Slam of the year following her Australian Open triumph.

Fourth seed Kenin will meet 19-year-old Iga Swiatek of Poland in Saturday's title decider after denying two-time Wimbledon champion Kvitova in her bid for a third major.

Swiatek became the first Polish woman in 81 years to reach the Roland Garros final as she demolished Argentine qualifier Nadia Podoroska 6-2, 6-1.

"I knew I had to be at my best. I am super happy and proud of myself," said Kenin.

The American faltered when serving for the match at 5-4 but broke Kvitova in the following game before closing out the victory over the Czech seventh seed.

Kenin, 21, will try to become the first woman to win two Slams in the same season since Angelique Kerber claimed the Australian and US Open titles in 2016.

"I have won in Australia and had really tough matches this week so that gives me confidence," said Kenin.

"I am going to enjoy this moment and then start to prepare for the final tomorrow."

Before this season, Kenin had never gone as far as the quarter-finals on clay. She lost her only match on the surface this year prior to Roland Garros, 6-0, 6-0 to Victoria Azarenka in Rome.&nbsp;

Kenin, who was taken to three sets in four of her five matches leading up to the semi-finals here, surged 4-1 ahead in the first set against Kvitova with a double break.

The Czech immediately clawed one back and created another opening to level on serve, but Kenin held steady and wrapped up the set when Kvitova smacked a backhand long.

Kenin again struck with a break in game five of the second set, fending off four break points in the ensuing game to keep Kvitova at arm's length.

Her frustration was clear as she blew her first chance to secure victory, but the tenacious Kenin earned a second opportunity and sealed her spot in the final with a gritty service hold.

The championship match will be the first at the majors to feature two players aged 21 or under since Maria Sharapova beat fellow 20-year-old Ana Ivanovic at the 2008 Australian Open.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<h2>- Great Polish hope -</h2>

&nbsp;

The 54th-ranked Swiatek has yet to drop a set at the tournament, conceding just 23 games through six matches.

The last woman to capture the French Open title without losing a set was Justine Henin in 2007.

"It seems unreal," said Swiatek. "I never thought at the start I would play so good here but I always knew that if I was going to be in the final of a Grand Slam it would be at the French Open."

"It's amazing for me," she added. "It's a dream come true."

Swiatek has matched the run of compatriot Jadwiga Jedrzejowska who finished runner-up at Roland Garros in 1939.&nbsp;

She is only the second Polish woman to reach a Grand Slam final in the Open era after Agnieszka Radwanska at Wimbledon in 2012.

Swiatek becomes the seventh unseeded women's finalist at Roland Garros. Of the previous six, only Jelena Ostapenko in 2017 went on to lift the trophy.

"Basically I wanted to play this match as if it was the first round. I didn't want to think I was in the semi-finals because it would stress me," said Swiatek.

She has not faced Kenin at tour level but defeated her in straight sets in the girls' singles at Roland Garros in 2016.

"I will need to be on a different level, the higher level, even though I'm winning easily right now," added Swiatek.

"Really I have no expectations. I don't care if I'm going to lose or win. I'm going to just play my best tennis."

World number 131 Podoroska was the lowest-ranked semi-finalist in Paris in the modern era, and the first women's qualifier to reach the last four of the French Open. &nbsp;

She will rise to a career a best of 48th after the tournament, having arrived without a single Grand Slam main draw win to her name.

"Of course my ranking is going to change, and the tournaments that I'm going to play. But not my life," said Podoroska.

"I'm going to be the same person. I'm going to try to improve my game, like I've been doing the past few years."

Sofia Kenin defeated Petra Kvitova 6-4, 7-5 to reach the French Open final on Thursday and will attempt to capture a second Grand Slam of the year following her Australian Open triumph.

Sofia Kenin defeated Petra Kvitova 6-4, 7-5 to reach the French Open final on Thursday and will attempt to capture a second Grand Slam of the year following her Australian Open triumph. Fourth seed Kenin will meet 19-year-old Iga Swiatek of Poland in Saturday's title decider after denying two-time Wimbledon champion Kvitova in her bid for a third major. Swiatek became the first Polish woman in 81 years to reach the Roland Garros final as she demolished Argentine qualifier Nadia Podoroska 6-2, 6-1. "I knew I had to be at my best. I am super happy and proud of myself," said Kenin. The American faltered when serving for the match at 5-4 but broke Kvitova in the following game before closing out the victory over the Czech seventh seed. Kenin, 21, will try to become the first woman to win two Slams in the same season since Angelique Kerber claimed the Australian and US Open titles in 2016. "I have won in Australia and had really tough matches this week so that gives me confidence," said Kenin. "I am going to enjoy this moment and then start to prepare for the final tomorrow." Before this season, Kenin had never gone as far as the quarter-finals on clay. She lost her only match on the surface this year prior to Roland Garros, 6-0, 6-0 to Victoria Azarenka in Rome. Kenin, who was taken to three sets in four of her five matches leading up to the semi-finals here, surged 4-1 ahead in the first set against Kvitova with a double break. The Czech immediately clawed one back and created another opening to level on serve, but Kenin held steady and wrapped up the set when Kvitova smacked a backhand long. Kenin again struck with a break in game five of the second set, fending off four break points in the ensuing game to keep Kvitova at arm's length. Her frustration was clear as she blew her first chance to secure victory, but the tenacious Kenin earned a second opportunity and sealed her spot in the final with a gritty service hold. The championship match will be the first at the majors to feature two players aged 21 or under since Maria Sharapova beat fellow 20-year-old Ana Ivanovic at the 2008 Australian Open. - Great Polish hope - The 54th-ranked Swiatek has yet to drop a set at the tournament, conceding just 23 games through six matches. The last woman to capture the French Open title without losing a set was Justine Henin in 2007. "It seems unreal," said Swiatek. "I never thought at the start I would play so good here but I always knew that if I was going to be in the final of a Grand Slam it would be at the French Open." "It's amazing for me," she added. "It's a dream come true." Swiatek has matched the run of compatriot Jadwiga Jedrzejowska who finished runner-up at Roland Garros in 1939. She is only the second Polish woman to reach a Grand Slam final in the Open era after Agnieszka Radwanska at Wimbledon in 2012. Swiatek becomes the seventh unseeded women's finalist at Roland Garros. Of the previous six, only Jelena Ostapenko in 2017 went on to lift the trophy. "Basically I wanted to play this match as if it was the first round. I didn't want to think I was in the semi-finals because it would stress me," said Swiatek. She has not faced Kenin at tour level but defeated her in straight sets in the girls' singles at Roland Garros in 2016. "I will need to be on a different level, the higher level, even though I'm winning easily right now," added Swiatek. "Really I have no expectations. I don't care if I'm going to lose or win. I'm going to just play my best tennis." World number 131 Podoroska was the lowest-ranked semi-finalist in Paris in the modern era, and the first women's qualifier to reach the last four of the French Open. She will rise to a career a best of 48th after the tournament, having arrived without a single Grand Slam main draw win to her name. "Of course my ranking is going to change, and the tournaments that I'm going to play. But not my life," said Podoroska. "I'm going to be the same person. I'm going to try to improve my game, like I've been doing the past few years."

Kenin downs Kvitova to set up French Open final with teen Swiatek

Teenager Iga Swiatek on Thursday became the first Polish woman in 81 years to qualify to the final of French Open as the youngster dominated the Argentina’s Nadia Podoroska 6-2, 6-1.

Interestingly, the 19-year-old starlet is yet to drop a set in the ongoing French Open 2020 and will now take on two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova or Australian Open winner Sofia Kenin for the coveted trophy on Saturday.

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Are you not entertained? 😁<a href="https://twitter.com/iga_swiatek?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iga_swiatek</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> <a href="https://t.co/iecjfnfdXp">pic.twitter.com/iecjfnfdXp</a>
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Swiatek, who is ranked 56, has also equalised the run of Jadwiga Jedrzejowska who finished runner-up at 1939 edition of Roland Garros. She also became the second Polish woman to reach a Grand Slam summit clash in the Open era after Agnieszka Radwanska at Wimbledon in 2012.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/every-time-a-match-gets-complicated-carreno-busta-accuses-djokovic-of-faking-injury-333522" hreflang="en">'Every time a match gets complicated...' - Carreno Busta accuses Djokovic of faking injury</a>

Swiatek further became the seventh unseeded women’s finalist at Roland Garros and notably, of the previous six, only Jelena Ostapenko lifted the coveted trophy in 2017.

<h2>Iga Swiatek so far in Roland Garros 2020:</h2>

<ul>
	<li>6-1, 6-2 (Vondrousova)</li>
	<li>6-1, 6-4 (Hsieh)</li>
	<li>6-3, 6-2 (Bouchard)</li>
	<li>6-1, 6-2 (Halep)</li>
	<li>6-3, 6-1 (Trevisan)</li>
	<li>6-2, 6-1 (Podoroska) 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Teenager Iga Swiatek on Thursday became the first Polish woman in 81 years to qualify to the final of French Open as the youngster dominated the Argentina’s Nadia Podoroska 6-2, 6-1.

Teenager Iga Swiatek on Thursday became the first Polish woman in 81 years to qualify to the final of French Open as the youngster dominated the Argentina’s Nadia Podoroska 6-2, 6-1. Interestingly, the 19-year-old starlet is yet to drop a set in the ongoing French Open 2020 and will now take on two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova or Australian Open winner Sofia Kenin for the coveted trophy on Saturday. Are you not entertained? 😁@iga_swiatek #RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/iecjfnfdXp — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) October 8, 2020 × Swiatek, who is ranked 56, has also equalised the run of Jadwiga Jedrzejowska who finished runner-up at 1939 edition of Roland Garros. She also became the second Polish woman to reach a Grand Slam summit clash in the Open era after Agnieszka Radwanska at Wimbledon in 2012. ALSO READ: 'Every time a match gets complicated...' - Carreno Busta accuses Djokovic of faking injury Swiatek further became the seventh unseeded women’s finalist at Roland Garros and notably, of the previous six, only Jelena Ostapenko lifted the coveted trophy in 2017. Iga Swiatek so far in Roland Garros 2020: 6-1, 6-2 (Vondrousova) 6-1, 6-4 (Hsieh) 6-3, 6-2 (Bouchard) 6-1, 6-2 (Halep) 6-3, 6-1 (Trevisan) 6-2, 6-1 (Podoroska)

Iga Swiatek first Polish woman to qualify to French Open final in 81 years

Spanish tennis star Pablo Carreno Busta on Wednesday accused Novak Djokovic of poor sportsmanship during their Roland Garros quarter-final on Wednesday as he felt the world number one didn’t have any genuine health concerns despite battling injury problems.

Djokovic, one of the favourites for the French Open, had his neck taped during the match on Court Philippe Chatrier with restricted movement during the opening set against the world number 18. The Serb further asked his trainer on court to resolve some issues with his upper left arm.

However, the Serbian recovered well and qualified for the semi-finals with a 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, 6-4 win and later added that he had to deal with some physical issues during the early part of his encounter against Busta.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/im-an-adult-now-tsitsipas-chasing-something-spectacular-in-paris-333441" hreflang="en">'I'm an adult now': Tsitsipas chasing 'something spectacular' in Paris</a>

“Each time he is in trouble he usually does it, that means to say that he was in trouble, that he wasn’t comfortable and that I was playing at a high level and was causing him to doubt himself,” Carreno Busta told reporters in Spanish.

“Every time a match gets complicated he asks for medical assistance. He has been doing this for a long time. I already knew that. I knew it would happen at the U.S. Open, I knew it would happen here and I know it will keep on happening.

“I don’t know if it’s something chronic in his shoulder or just mental, but he didn’t put me off.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/second-seeded-rafael-nadal-into-14th-roland-garros-quarter-final-332502" hreflang="en">Second seeded Rafael Nadal into 14th Roland Garros quarter-final</a>

Djokovic also banged his racket against his thigh in frustration following the opening set, the first he lost at this year’s claycourt Grand Slam.

“I don’t know, maybe it’s the pressure or something that he needs to do it. But he continues playing normal, no? I don’t know if he’s (in) pain really or he has mental (issues). Ask him,” Carreno Busta said in English. 
&nbsp;

Spanish tennis star Pablo Carreno Busta on Wednesday accused Novak Djokovic of poor sportsmanship during their Roland Garros quarter-final on Wednesday as he felt the world number one didn’t have any genuine health concerns despite battling injury problems.

Spanish tennis star Pablo Carreno Busta on Wednesday accused Novak Djokovic of poor sportsmanship during their Roland Garros quarter-final on Wednesday as he felt the world number one didn’t have any genuine health concerns despite battling injury problems. Djokovic, one of the favourites for the French Open, had his neck taped during the match on Court Philippe Chatrier with restricted movement during the opening set against the world number 18. The Serb further asked his trainer on court to resolve some issues with his upper left arm. However, the Serbian recovered well and qualified for the semi-finals with a 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, 6-4 win and later added that he had to deal with some physical issues during the early part of his encounter against Busta. ALSO READ: 'I'm an adult now': Tsitsipas chasing 'something spectacular' in Paris “Each time he is in trouble he usually does it, that means to say that he was in trouble, that he wasn’t comfortable and that I was playing at a high level and was causing him to doubt himself,” Carreno Busta told reporters in Spanish. “Every time a match gets complicated he asks for medical assistance. He has been doing this for a long time. I already knew that. I knew it would happen at the U.S. Open, I knew it would happen here and I know it will keep on happening. “I don’t know if it’s something chronic in his shoulder or just mental, but he didn’t put me off.” ALSO READ: Second seeded Rafael Nadal into 14th Roland Garros quarter-final Djokovic also banged his racket against his thigh in frustration following the opening set, the first he lost at this year’s claycourt Grand Slam. “I don’t know, maybe it’s the pressure or something that he needs to do it. But he continues playing normal, no? I don’t know if he’s (in) pain really or he has mental (issues). Ask him,” Carreno Busta said in English.

'Every time a match gets complicated...' - Carreno Busta accuses Djokovic of faking injury

Stefanos Tsitsipas insists he's "chasing something spectacular" at Roland Garros as he attempts to become the first Greek to win a Grand Slam title.

The 22-year-old reached the semi-finals in Paris for the first time on Wednesday with an impressive 7-5, 6-2, 6-3 win over Russia's Andrey Rublev.

Tsitsipas made his big breakthrough at the 2019 Australian Open where he defeated Roger Federer on his way to a maiden last-four spot at the Slams.

However, he hasn't kicked on at the majors with a last-16 exit in Paris last season followed by first round defeats at Wimbledon and the US Open.

He was a surprise champion at the ATP Finals in London at the back end of 2019 before third round exits in Melbourne and New York when he returned to 2020 duty at the Slams.

"I'm chasing something spectacular," said world number six Tsitsipas, the youngest player in the top 10.

Now with two runs to the last four at the Slams, Tsitsipas believes his time is near despite the stranglehold over the majors exercised by Federer, Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal.

"I would like to tell you that I'm not a NextGen player any more. I'm a proper adult," he said.

"Second of all, for sure it's going to come at some point. The big three have been there for a long time.&nbsp;I don't feel like it's going to be the same in five, six years' time, I believe."

Since dropping the first two sets of his opener in Paris against Spain's Jaume Munar, the Greek has been on an impressive run, winning 15 sets in succession.

Should he go all the way and lift the title on Sunday, he would be the youngest men's Grand Slam champion since Juan Martin del Potro at the US Open in 2009.

However, to get there, he will probably have to defeat world number one Djokovic in the semi-final and 12-time champion Nadal in the final.

Stefanos Tsitsipas insists he's "chasing something spectacular" at Roland Garros as he attempts to become the first Greek to win a Grand Slam title. The 22-year-old reached the semi-finals in Paris for the first time on Wednesday with an impressive 7-5, 6-2, 6-3 win over Russia's Andrey Rublev.

Stefanos Tsitsipas insists he's "chasing something spectacular" at Roland Garros as he attempts to become the first Greek to win a Grand Slam title. The 22-year-old reached the semi-finals in Paris for the first time on Wednesday with an impressive 7-5, 6-2, 6-3 win over Russia's Andrey Rublev. Tsitsipas made his big breakthrough at the 2019 Australian Open where he defeated Roger Federer on his way to a maiden last-four spot at the Slams. However, he hasn't kicked on at the majors with a last-16 exit in Paris last season followed by first round defeats at Wimbledon and the US Open. He was a surprise champion at the ATP Finals in London at the back end of 2019 before third round exits in Melbourne and New York when he returned to 2020 duty at the Slams. "I'm chasing something spectacular," said world number six Tsitsipas, the youngest player in the top 10. Now with two runs to the last four at the Slams, Tsitsipas believes his time is near despite the stranglehold over the majors exercised by Federer, Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal. "I would like to tell you that I'm not a NextGen player any more. I'm a proper adult," he said. "Second of all, for sure it's going to come at some point. The big three have been there for a long time. I don't feel like it's going to be the same in five, six years' time, I believe." Since dropping the first two sets of his opener in Paris against Spain's Jaume Munar, the Greek has been on an impressive run, winning 15 sets in succession. Should he go all the way and lift the title on Sunday, he would be the youngest men's Grand Slam champion since Juan Martin del Potro at the US Open in 2009. However, to get there, he will probably have to defeat world number one Djokovic in the semi-final and 12-time champion Nadal in the final.

'I'm an adult now': Tsitsipas chasing 'something spectacular' in Paris

Rafael Nadal reached his 13th Roland Garros semi-final early Wednesday with a straight sets win over Italian teenager Jannik Sinner but claimed it was "dangerous" to finish at 01:30 in the morning when the temperature had plummeted to 12 degrees (53F).

Nadal, the 12-time champion, defeated 19-year-old Sinner 7-6 (7/4), 6-4, 6-1 to clinch a 98th victory in his 100th match at the French Open.

He will next face Diego Schwartzman, the diminutive Argentine over whom he holds a 9-1 career advantage, as he moves closer to equalling Roger Federer's all-time record of 20 majors.

However, Nadal, more accustomed to the bright sunshine of Mallorca than the autumn chill of a French Open pushed back four months due to the coronavirus pandemic, was unhappy with organisers who scheduled five matches on the main Court Philippe Chatrier.

"I know footballers play under these conditions, but they are all the time moving," said Nadal after the latest ever finishing match at the tournament.

"We stop, we come back, we stop on the changeovers. I think this is a little bit dangerous for the body with these very heavy conditions."

Nadal and Sinner only got on court at 10:30pm after Schwartzman and Thiem had taken five hours to decide their quarter-final.

They also had to wait for another women's last-eight tie to be completed after two others had kicked off the programme.

The sparse and shivering crowd that greeted them wore thick coats, scarves and hats.

"I don't know why they put five matches on Chatrier. It's a risk," added 34-year-old Nadal who finished his news conference at 02:10.

Nadal will be playing in a 34th semi-final at the majors.

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<h2>- 'I was over limit' -</h2>

He takes a 9-1 lead over Schwartzman into that match although the Argentine won their most recent clash in Rome on the eve of Roland Garros.

World number 75 Sinner, bidding to become the first man to make the semi-finals on debut since Nadal in 2005, was left to rue missed chances.

He led with breaks in both of the first two sets, even finding himself just two points away from taking the opener.

Nadal admitted he had been in a contest unlike his first four matches where he dropped just 23 games.

"It was very tough during the first two sets and especially at the end of the first.

"He was hitting the ball very hard and with the cold, the balls had less lift."

Sinner has been tipped to make the world top 10 next season, but said he is not looking too far ahead.

"I'm a person who looks not in the future and not in the past, always in the present," said the Italian who had seen off two seeded players to make the last-eight -- 11th seed David Goffin and sixth-seeded Alexander Zverev, the US Open runner-up.

Argentine 12th seed&nbsp;Schwartzman defeated US Open champion and third seed Thiem in a five-hour epic to reach his first ever Grand Slam semi-final.

The 28-year-old Schwartzman triumphed 7-6 (7/1), 5-7, 6-7 (6/8), 7-6 (7/5), 6-2.

It was one marathon too many for Thiem, the runner-up in Paris for the last two years, who had needed five sets and three and a half hours to down world number 239 Hugo Gaston in the fourth round.

The 5ft 7in (1.70m) Schwartzman's success came on the same day that compatriot Nadia Podoroska, the world 131, reached the last-four of the women's singles.

"Dominic is one of the great players. He is my best friend and I have a lot of respect for him," said Schwartzman.

"So this win is very important for me. In the second and third sets, I was going a little crazy and I was screaming at myself because I had so many chances.

"But, come on, I deserved to win tonight," added Schwartzman.

Thiem had been attempting to reach a fifth successive semi-final in Paris.

However, despite crunching 65 winners to his opponent's 47, he committed 81 unforced errors in a match which featured 19 breaks of serve and at five hours and eight minutes was the second longest of the tournament.

"I was over the limit today," said Thiem.

"At the net I just told him that he deserves it. I think he's for the first time top 10 with that win.&nbsp;

"That's also great achievement."

Rafael Nadal reached his 13th Roland Garros semi-final early Wednesday with a straight sets win over Italian teenager Jannik Sinner but claimed it was "dangerous" to finish at 01:30 in the morning when the temperature had plummeted to 12 degrees (53F).

Rafael Nadal reached his 13th Roland Garros semi-final early Wednesday with a straight sets win over Italian teenager Jannik Sinner but claimed it was "dangerous" to finish at 01:30 in the morning when the temperature had plummeted to 12 degrees (53F). Nadal, the 12-time champion, defeated 19-year-old Sinner 7-6 (7/4), 6-4, 6-1 to clinch a 98th victory in his 100th match at the French Open. He will next face Diego Schwartzman, the diminutive Argentine over whom he holds a 9-1 career advantage, as he moves closer to equalling Roger Federer's all-time record of 20 majors. However, Nadal, more accustomed to the bright sunshine of Mallorca than the autumn chill of a French Open pushed back four months due to the coronavirus pandemic, was unhappy with organisers who scheduled five matches on the main Court Philippe Chatrier. "I know footballers play under these conditions, but they are all the time moving," said Nadal after the latest ever finishing match at the tournament. "We stop, we come back, we stop on the changeovers. I think this is a little bit dangerous for the body with these very heavy conditions." Nadal and Sinner only got on court at 10:30pm after Schwartzman and Thiem had taken five hours to decide their quarter-final. They also had to wait for another women's last-eight tie to be completed after two others had kicked off the programme. The sparse and shivering crowd that greeted them wore thick coats, scarves and hats. "I don't know why they put five matches on Chatrier. It's a risk," added 34-year-old Nadal who finished his news conference at 02:10. Nadal will be playing in a 34th semi-final at the majors. - 'I was over limit' - He takes a 9-1 lead over Schwartzman into that match although the Argentine won their most recent clash in Rome on the eve of Roland Garros. World number 75 Sinner, bidding to become the first man to make the semi-finals on debut since Nadal in 2005, was left to rue missed chances. He led with breaks in both of the first two sets, even finding himself just two points away from taking the opener. Nadal admitted he had been in a contest unlike his first four matches where he dropped just 23 games. "It was very tough during the first two sets and especially at the end of the first. "He was hitting the ball very hard and with the cold, the balls had less lift." Sinner has been tipped to make the world top 10 next season, but said he is not looking too far ahead. "I'm a person who looks not in the future and not in the past, always in the present," said the Italian who had seen off two seeded players to make the last-eight -- 11th seed David Goffin and sixth-seeded Alexander Zverev, the US Open runner-up. Argentine 12th seed Schwartzman defeated US Open champion and third seed Thiem in a five-hour epic to reach his first ever Grand Slam semi-final. The 28-year-old Schwartzman triumphed 7-6 (7/1), 5-7, 6-7 (6/8), 7-6 (7/5), 6-2. It was one marathon too many for Thiem, the runner-up in Paris for the last two years, who had needed five sets and three and a half hours to down world number 239 Hugo Gaston in the fourth round. The 5ft 7in (1.70m) Schwartzman's success came on the same day that compatriot Nadia Podoroska, the world 131, reached the last-four of the women's singles. "Dominic is one of the great players. He is my best friend and I have a lot of respect for him," said Schwartzman. "So this win is very important for me. In the second and third sets, I was going a little crazy and I was screaming at myself because I had so many chances. "But, come on, I deserved to win tonight," added Schwartzman. Thiem had been attempting to reach a fifth successive semi-final in Paris. However, despite crunching 65 winners to his opponent's 47, he committed 81 unforced errors in a match which featured 19 breaks of serve and at five hours and eight minutes was the second longest of the tournament. "I was over the limit today," said Thiem. "At the net I just told him that he deserves it. I think he's for the first time top 10 with that win. "That's also great achievement."

Nadal into 13th Roland Garros semi-final, hits out at 'dangerous' night life

Novak Djokovic targets a 10th Roland Garros semi-final on Wednesday as he faces Pablo Carreno Busta, the man who was on the other side of the net when the world number one was sensationally defaulted at the US Open.

Victory will give the top seed and the 2016 champion a last-four clash against either Stefanos Tsitsipas or Andrey Rublev who are in the quarter-finals in Paris for the first time.

<h2>Novak Djokovic (SRB x1) v Pablo Carreno Busta (ESP x17)</h2>

Head-to-head: Djokovic leads 3-1

-- World number one Djokovic has moved effortlessly into a 14th quarter-final in Paris and 47th overall in the majors as he targets a second French Open and 18th Grand Slam.

He has dropped just 25 games through four rounds and now sits three wins away from becoming the first man in half a century -- and only the third in history -- to win all four Slams twice.

The 33-year-old's only heart-stopping moment came in his last 16 win over Karen Khachanov when a ball ricocheted off the frame of his racquet and accidentally smashed into the face of a line judge.

"My gosh, it was a very awkward deja vu," said the Serb who last month was disqualified from the US Open for an angry swipe of a ball which hit a female line judge squarely in the throat.

That was Djokovic's only 'defeat' against 35 wins this year.

Carreno Busta, the world number 18, has lost both his meetings to Djokovic on clay, in Monte Carlo in 2014 and 2017.

The 29-year-old made the quarter-finals at the US Open and was also in the last eight in Paris in 2017.

However, that experience ended in heartbreak with an abdominal injury forcing him to quit against Rafael Nadal after just 52 minutes.

Carreno Busta, who needed treatment on a stomach problem in last 16 win over Daniel Altmaier on Monday, says that Djokovic's legacy should not be permanently scarred by the incident in New York.

"I think Novak is a great player, a great person. Sometimes we cannot control our emotions. A mistake," said the Spaniard.

Path to the quarter-finals (x indicates seeded player):

Djokovic

1st rd: bt Mikael Ymer (SWE) 6-0, 6-2, 6-3

2nd rd: bt Ricardas Berankis (LTU) 6-1, 6-2, 6-2

3rd rd: bt Daniel Galan (COL) 6-0, 6-3, 6-2

4th rd: bt Karen Khachanov (RUS x15) 6-4, 6-3, 6-3

&nbsp;

Carreno Busta

1st rd: bt John Millman (AUS) 6-3, 6-2, 7-5

2nd rd: bt Guido Pella (ARG) 6-3, 6-2, 6-1

3rd rd: bt Roberto Bautista Agut (ESP x10) 6-4, 6-3, 5-7, 6-4

4th rd: bt Daniel Altmaier (GER) 6-2, 7-5, 6-2

&nbsp;

<h2>Andrey Rublev (RUS x13) v Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE x5)</h2>

Head-to-head: Rublev leads 2-1

-- Less than two weeks after Rublev defeated Tsitsipas in the Hamburg claycourt final, the pair meet again in their debut appearances in the last eight in Paris.

Rublev, the 22-year-old with a mop of unruly red hair, has been a picture of flashy shot-making and defiance in Paris as he reached a third career Slam quarter-final to follow similar runs in New York in 2017 and last month.

In four matches at the tournament, his opponents have served for sets on eight occasions but Rublev has been equal to the task every time.

The Russian has five career titles, three of which have come in this truncated season. Only Djokovic with four can boast a better record.

World number six Tsitsipas, also 22, is equally flamboyant.&nbsp;

He is the first Greek to get this far in Paris and will be playing in the quarter-finals of a major for just the second time following his breakout run at the 2019 Australian Open where he made the semi-finals, defeating Roger Federer on the way.

"Andrey is a tough cookie," said Tsitsipas.

&nbsp;

Path to the quarter-finals (x indicates seeded player):

Rublev

1st rd: bt Sam Querrey (USA) 6-7 (5/7), 6-7 (4/7), 7-5, 6-4, 6-3

2nd rd: bt Alejandro Davidovich Fokina (ESP) 7-5, 6-1, 3-6, 6-1

3rd rd: bt Kevin Anderson (RSA) 6-3, 6-2, 6-3

4th rd: bt Marton Fucsovics (HUN) 6-7 (4/7), 7-5, 6-4, 7-6 (7/3)

&nbsp;

Tsitsipas

1st rd: bt Jaume Munar (ESP) 4-6, 2-6, 6-1, 6-4, 6-4

2nd rd: bt Pablo Cuevas (URU) 6-1, 6-4, 6-2

3rd rd: bt Aljaz Bedene (SLO) 6-1, 6-2, 3-1 - retired

4th rd: bt Grigor Dimitrov (BUL x18) 6-3, 7-6 (11/9), 6-2

Novak Djokovic targets a 10th Roland Garros semi-final on Wednesday as he faces Pablo Carreno Busta, the man who was on the other side of the net when the world number one was sensationally defaulted at the US Open.

Novak Djokovic targets a 10th Roland Garros semi-final on Wednesday as he faces Pablo Carreno Busta, the man who was on the other side of the net when the world number one was sensationally defaulted at the US Open. Victory will give the top seed and the 2016 champion a last-four clash against either Stefanos Tsitsipas or Andrey Rublev who are in the quarter-finals in Paris for the first time. Novak Djokovic (SRB x1) v Pablo Carreno Busta (ESP x17) Head-to-head: Djokovic leads 3-1 -- World number one Djokovic has moved effortlessly into a 14th quarter-final in Paris and 47th overall in the majors as he targets a second French Open and 18th Grand Slam. He has dropped just 25 games through four rounds and now sits three wins away from becoming the first man in half a century -- and only the third in history -- to win all four Slams twice. The 33-year-old's only heart-stopping moment came in his last 16 win over Karen Khachanov when a ball ricocheted off the frame of his racquet and accidentally smashed into the face of a line judge. "My gosh, it was a very awkward deja vu," said the Serb who last month was disqualified from the US Open for an angry swipe of a ball which hit a female line judge squarely in the throat. That was Djokovic's only 'defeat' against 35 wins this year. Carreno Busta, the world number 18, has lost both his meetings to Djokovic on clay, in Monte Carlo in 2014 and 2017. The 29-year-old made the quarter-finals at the US Open and was also in the last eight in Paris in 2017. However, that experience ended in heartbreak with an abdominal injury forcing him to quit against Rafael Nadal after just 52 minutes. Carreno Busta, who needed treatment on a stomach problem in last 16 win over Daniel Altmaier on Monday, says that Djokovic's legacy should not be permanently scarred by the incident in New York. "I think Novak is a great player, a great person. Sometimes we cannot control our emotions. A mistake," said the Spaniard. Path to the quarter-finals (x indicates seeded player): Djokovic 1st rd: bt Mikael Ymer (SWE) 6-0, 6-2, 6-3 2nd rd: bt Ricardas Berankis (LTU) 6-1, 6-2, 6-2 3rd rd: bt Daniel Galan (COL) 6-0, 6-3, 6-2 4th rd: bt Karen Khachanov (RUS x15) 6-4, 6-3, 6-3 Carreno Busta 1st rd: bt John Millman (AUS) 6-3, 6-2, 7-5 2nd rd: bt Guido Pella (ARG) 6-3, 6-2, 6-1 3rd rd: bt Roberto Bautista Agut (ESP x10) 6-4, 6-3, 5-7, 6-4 4th rd: bt Daniel Altmaier (GER) 6-2, 7-5, 6-2 Andrey Rublev (RUS x13) v Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE x5) Head-to-head: Rublev leads 2-1 -- Less than two weeks after Rublev defeated Tsitsipas in the Hamburg claycourt final, the pair meet again in their debut appearances in the last eight in Paris. Rublev, the 22-year-old with a mop of unruly red hair, has been a picture of flashy shot-making and defiance in Paris as he reached a third career Slam quarter-final to follow similar runs in New York in 2017 and last month. In four matches at the tournament, his opponents have served for sets on eight occasions but Rublev has been equal to the task every time. The Russian has five career titles, three of which have come in this truncated season. Only Djokovic with four can boast a better record. World number six Tsitsipas, also 22, is equally flamboyant. He is the first Greek to get this far in Paris and will be playing in the quarter-finals of a major for just the second time following his breakout run at the 2019 Australian Open where he made the semi-finals, defeating Roger Federer on the way. "Andrey is a tough cookie," said Tsitsipas. Path to the quarter-finals (x indicates seeded player): Rublev 1st rd: bt Sam Querrey (USA) 6-7 (5/7), 6-7 (4/7), 7-5, 6-4, 6-3 2nd rd: bt Alejandro Davidovich Fokina (ESP) 7-5, 6-1, 3-6, 6-1 3rd rd: bt Kevin Anderson (RSA) 6-3, 6-2, 6-3 4th rd: bt Marton Fucsovics (HUN) 6-7 (4/7), 7-5, 6-4, 7-6 (7/3) Tsitsipas 1st rd: bt Jaume Munar (ESP) 4-6, 2-6, 6-1, 6-4, 6-4 2nd rd: bt Pablo Cuevas (URU) 6-1, 6-4, 6-2 3rd rd: bt Aljaz Bedene (SLO) 6-1, 6-2, 3-1 - retired 4th rd: bt Grigor Dimitrov (BUL x18) 6-3, 7-6 (11/9), 6-2

Djokovic eyes 10th Roland Garros semi-final

Rafael Nadal charged into the French Open last 16 on Friday and took another confident stride towards equalling Roger Federer's record of 20 major titles while a crop of rising youngsters offered tantalising glimpses of their potential.

The 12-time Roland Garros champion dispatched Italian world number 74 Stefano Travaglia 6-1, 6-4, 6-0 in just 95 minutes, notching his 96th victory at the tournament.

"I think today I played the best match this year at Roland Garros," said Nadal.

Nadal next faces 213th-ranked American qualifier Sebastian Korda, the son of 1998 Australian Open champion and 1992 French Open runner-up Petr Korda, for a quarter-final spot.

"He's my biggest idol. He's one of the reasons I play tennis," Korda said of the Spaniard.

"Growing up, I named my cat Rafa after him. That says a lot about how much I love the guy."

The 20-year-old Korda beat Pedro Martinez in straight sets to become the first man outside the top 200 to make the last 16 in Paris since France's Arnaud di Pasquale in 2002.&nbsp;

Hugo Gaston, also 20, quickly became the second such lowly-ranked man in the fourth round when the world number 239 shocked 2015 champion Stan Wawrinka 2-6, 6-3, 6-3, 4-6, 6-0 in a rain-interrupted tie.

Gaston goes on to play US Open winner and Austrian third seed Dominic Thiem, the runner-up to Nadal in Paris the past two years.

"It's amazing for me, it's a dream. But I try to stay focused," said Gaston, the lone Frenchman remaining in the draw. "I'm feeling tired with the adrenaline rush but I still have some gas."

"I'm not going to put pressure on myself and will try to play relaxed like I did today," he added.

At 19, Italian teenager Jannik Sinner is the youngest player to reach the fourth round at Roland Garros since Novak Djokovic in 2006.

Last year's Next Gen champion made the second week of a Grand Slam for the first time by beating Federico Coria 6-3, 7-5, 7-5.

He will meet the US Open runner-up Alexander Zverev after the German sixth seed ended the run of qualifier and 2018 semi-finalist Marco Cecchinato in three sets.

"I'm just trying to improve day after day," said the 75th-ranked Sinner, who is yet to drop a set in Paris.

&nbsp;

<h2>- Halep gets revenge -</h2>

&nbsp;

Top seed and title favourite Simona Halep, the 2018 champion, avenged last year's Roland Garros loss to Amanda Anisimova by thrashing the American teenager 6-0, 6-1 in only 54 minutes.

The reigning Wimbledon champion made only seven unforced errors as she stretched her career-best winning run to 17 matches.

"I think I played a really good match. I was very aggressive and I knew from last year I had to change something and I did that today," said Halep. "I took the game in my hands."

Halep meets another 19-year-old opponent, Poland's Iga Swiatek, for a place in the quarter-finals. She dropped just one game when the pair met here in the last 16 a year ago.

Halep's status as the women's frontrunner was reinforced following the withdrawal of Serena Williams, on top of the absence of world number one and defending champion Ashleigh Barty, as well as US Open winner Naomi Osaka.

"I don't feel the pressure. Of course I expect from myself to play good tennis but that doesn't mean I have to win every match," said Halep.

"I just want to try to take my chance every time I step on the court, and I'm not thinking about title. It's very far (off)."&nbsp;

Thiem made surprisingly short work of Norwegian 28th seed Casper Ruud, who has won more tour-level matches on clay than anyone else this season.

"In general I was super happy with my performance. I think was one of the best ones this year," said Thiem following an impressive 6-4, 6-3, 6-1 victory.

Two-time quarter-finalist Elina Svitolina ensured she will stick around for the second week with a 6-4, 7-5 win over Russia's Ekaterina Alexandrova, the 27th seed.

Svitolina will next play home hope Caroline Garcia, who upset 16th seed Elise Mertens 1-6, 6-4, 7-5.

Italy's Lorenzo Sonego edged a 36-point tiebreak against Taylor Fritz to complete a 7-6 (7/5), 6-3, 7-6 (19/17) victory.

Fifth seed Kiki Bertens eased aside Katerina Siniakova 6-2, 6-2, moving swiftly on from her stormy win over Sara Errani in the previous round.

Rafael Nadal charged into the French Open last 16 on Friday and took another confident stride towards equalling Roger Federer's record of 20 major titles while a crop of rising youngsters offered tantalising glimpses of their potential.

Rafael Nadal charged into the French Open last 16 on Friday and took another confident stride towards equalling Roger Federer's record of 20 major titles while a crop of rising youngsters offered tantalising glimpses of their potential. The 12-time Roland Garros champion dispatched Italian world number 74 Stefano Travaglia 6-1, 6-4, 6-0 in just 95 minutes, notching his 96th victory at the tournament. "I think today I played the best match this year at Roland Garros," said Nadal. Nadal next faces 213th-ranked American qualifier Sebastian Korda, the son of 1998 Australian Open champion and 1992 French Open runner-up Petr Korda, for a quarter-final spot. "He's my biggest idol. He's one of the reasons I play tennis," Korda said of the Spaniard. "Growing up, I named my cat Rafa after him. That says a lot about how much I love the guy." The 20-year-old Korda beat Pedro Martinez in straight sets to become the first man outside the top 200 to make the last 16 in Paris since France's Arnaud di Pasquale in 2002. Hugo Gaston, also 20, quickly became the second such lowly-ranked man in the fourth round when the world number 239 shocked 2015 champion Stan Wawrinka 2-6, 6-3, 6-3, 4-6, 6-0 in a rain-interrupted tie. Gaston goes on to play US Open winner and Austrian third seed Dominic Thiem, the runner-up to Nadal in Paris the past two years. "It's amazing for me, it's a dream. But I try to stay focused," said Gaston, the lone Frenchman remaining in the draw. "I'm feeling tired with the adrenaline rush but I still have some gas." "I'm not going to put pressure on myself and will try to play relaxed like I did today," he added. At 19, Italian teenager Jannik Sinner is the youngest player to reach the fourth round at Roland Garros since Novak Djokovic in 2006. Last year's Next Gen champion made the second week of a Grand Slam for the first time by beating Federico Coria 6-3, 7-5, 7-5. He will meet the US Open runner-up Alexander Zverev after the German sixth seed ended the run of qualifier and 2018 semi-finalist Marco Cecchinato in three sets. "I'm just trying to improve day after day," said the 75th-ranked Sinner, who is yet to drop a set in Paris. - Halep gets revenge - Top seed and title favourite Simona Halep, the 2018 champion, avenged last year's Roland Garros loss to Amanda Anisimova by thrashing the American teenager 6-0, 6-1 in only 54 minutes. The reigning Wimbledon champion made only seven unforced errors as she stretched her career-best winning run to 17 matches. "I think I played a really good match. I was very aggressive and I knew from last year I had to change something and I did that today," said Halep. "I took the game in my hands." Halep meets another 19-year-old opponent, Poland's Iga Swiatek, for a place in the quarter-finals. She dropped just one game when the pair met here in the last 16 a year ago. Halep's status as the women's frontrunner was reinforced following the withdrawal of Serena Williams, on top of the absence of world number one and defending champion Ashleigh Barty, as well as US Open winner Naomi Osaka. "I don't feel the pressure. Of course I expect from myself to play good tennis but that doesn't mean I have to win every match," said Halep. "I just want to try to take my chance every time I step on the court, and I'm not thinking about title. It's very far (off)." Thiem made surprisingly short work of Norwegian 28th seed Casper Ruud, who has won more tour-level matches on clay than anyone else this season. "In general I was super happy with my performance. I think was one of the best ones this year," said Thiem following an impressive 6-4, 6-3, 6-1 victory. Two-time quarter-finalist Elina Svitolina ensured she will stick around for the second week with a 6-4, 7-5 win over Russia's Ekaterina Alexandrova, the 27th seed. Svitolina will next play home hope Caroline Garcia, who upset 16th seed Elise Mertens 1-6, 6-4, 7-5. Italy's Lorenzo Sonego edged a 36-point tiebreak against Taylor Fritz to complete a 7-6 (7/5), 6-3, 7-6 (19/17) victory. Fifth seed Kiki Bertens eased aside Katerina Siniakova 6-2, 6-2, moving swiftly on from her stormy win over Sara Errani in the previous round.

Nadal eases into French Open last 16 as new kids emerge

World number Novak Djokovic is on the verge of breaking Roger Federer’s record at Roland Garros when the Serbian ace takes on Colobian Daniel Elahi Galan during the third round match on Saturday. Djokovic equaled Federer’s record as he advanced to the third round of the French Open 2020 after defeating Ricardas Berankis on Thursday, also equaling Federer’s record of 70 wins at Roland Garros.

Both Federer and Djokovic now have 70 wins on the Parisian clay and the Serb will be gunning to go past the Swiss maestro on Saturday. In other Grand slams, Djokovic has won 75 (Australian Open), 72 (Wimbledon) and 75 matches (US Open) whereas Federer records 102, 101 and 89 wins respectively for the same.

If Djokovic defeats Elahi Galan on Saturday, then he will become the second player to have most wins at Roland Garros after Rafael Nadal, who tops the list.&nbsp;

After winning a record-equaling match at Roland Garros, Novak Djokovic said to reporters, “Grand Slams are obviously the biggest tournaments in our sport.” &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fernando-verdasco-wants-to-sue-roland-garros-after-being-forced-to-quit-french-open-2020-331453" hreflang="en">Fernando Verdasco wants to sue Roland Garros after being forced to quit French Open 2020</a>

Speaking about his achievements in Grand Slam events, Serb said, “Historically, they count the most. So, of course, winning that many matches in each slam are a great achievement, and of course, it makes me proud, makes me happy.”

The Serb has 17 Grand Slam titles after qualifying 26 times for the finals. Djokovic continuing his statement said: “Over the two weeks, it takes a lot of energy and effort to invest in winning a Grand Slam. It’s kind of a confirmation for me that I have been able to play my best tennis throughout my career in the biggest tournaments.”

World number Novak Djokovic is on the verge of breaking Roger Federer’s record at Roland Garros when the Serbian ace takes on Colobian Daniel Elahi Galan during the third round match on Saturday.

World number Novak Djokovic is on the verge of breaking Roger Federer’s record at Roland Garros when the Serbian ace takes on Colobian Daniel Elahi Galan during the third round match on Saturday. Djokovic equaled Federer’s record as he advanced to the third round of the French Open 2020 after defeating Ricardas Berankis on Thursday, also equaling Federer’s record of 70 wins at Roland Garros. Both Federer and Djokovic now have 70 wins on the Parisian clay and the Serb will be gunning to go past the Swiss maestro on Saturday. In other Grand slams, Djokovic has won 75 (Australian Open), 72 (Wimbledon) and 75 matches (US Open) whereas Federer records 102, 101 and 89 wins respectively for the same. If Djokovic defeats Elahi Galan on Saturday, then he will become the second player to have most wins at Roland Garros after Rafael Nadal, who tops the list. After winning a record-equaling match at Roland Garros, Novak Djokovic said to reporters, “Grand Slams are obviously the biggest tournaments in our sport.” ALSO READ: Fernando Verdasco wants to sue Roland Garros after being forced to quit French Open 2020 Speaking about his achievements in Grand Slam events, Serb said, “Historically, they count the most. So, of course, winning that many matches in each slam are a great achievement, and of course, it makes me proud, makes me happy.” The Serb has 17 Grand Slam titles after qualifying 26 times for the finals. Djokovic continuing his statement said: “Over the two weeks, it takes a lot of energy and effort to invest in winning a Grand Slam. It’s kind of a confirmation for me that I have been able to play my best tennis throughout my career in the biggest tournaments.”

Roland Garros: Novak Djokovic on verge of surpassing Roger Federer's record

The ongoing French Open 2020 may find itself in controversy with Spanish tennis player Fernando Verdasco set to sue Roland Garros for forcing him out of the Grand Slam tournament. The Roland Garros 2020 is well underway into the second round with the likes of Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Dominic Thiem among the top contenders to win the French Open.&nbsp;

However, there were many tennis stars who opted out of the tournament with former world number seven Fernando Verdasco being one of them. Verdasco had tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of the tournament but was reportedly denied a second test and was forced to pull out of the Grand Slam event.&nbsp;

Verdasco has now said that he is willing to sue Roland Garros for not allowing him to play in the showpiece tournament while adding it is not about monetary damage but personal and professional insecurity it caused.

The Spaniard, who was not allowed to take a second COVID-19 tests, took two independent tests which returned negative both the times.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-pulls-out-of-roland-garros-due-to-achilles-injury-331427" hreflang="en">Serena Williams pulls out of Roland Garros due to Achilles injury</a>

"Do I want to sue Roland Garros? Yes, obviously. Nobody can believe that a tournament like Roland Garros can do that. It can't be. It is not a thing about money, it is a thing of damage which this does you personally and professionally," he said, per PA Media (h/t Sky Sports).

"I don't know if I'm going to play again this year or not because you lose the desire for everything. They [French Open organisers] do things as they please, without any coherence and without any respect. The rights of the players count for nothing. Then the next day, following when I have been left out of the draw, they change the rules and now you can do a second test—that was the final straw."

Verdasco has been a common name in French Open after playing in the Grand Slam even for the past 17 years. 
&nbsp;

The ongoing French Open 2020 may find itself in controversy with Spanish tennis player Fernando Verdasco set to sue Roland Garros for forcing him out of the Grand Slam tournament.

The ongoing French Open 2020 may find itself in controversy with Spanish tennis player Fernando Verdasco set to sue Roland Garros for forcing him out of the Grand Slam tournament. The Roland Garros 2020 is well underway into the second round with the likes of Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Dominic Thiem among the top contenders to win the French Open. However, there were many tennis stars who opted out of the tournament with former world number seven Fernando Verdasco being one of them. Verdasco had tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of the tournament but was reportedly denied a second test and was forced to pull out of the Grand Slam event. Verdasco has now said that he is willing to sue Roland Garros for not allowing him to play in the showpiece tournament while adding it is not about monetary damage but personal and professional insecurity it caused. The Spaniard, who was not allowed to take a second COVID-19 tests, took two independent tests which returned negative both the times. ALSO READ: Serena Williams pulls out of Roland Garros due to Achilles injury "Do I want to sue Roland Garros? Yes, obviously. Nobody can believe that a tournament like Roland Garros can do that. It can't be. It is not a thing about money, it is a thing of damage which this does you personally and professionally," he said, per PA Media (h/t Sky Sports). "I don't know if I'm going to play again this year or not because you lose the desire for everything. They [French Open organisers] do things as they please, without any coherence and without any respect. The rights of the players count for nothing. Then the next day, following when I have been left out of the draw, they change the rules and now you can do a second test—that was the final straw." Verdasco has been a common name in French Open after playing in the Grand Slam even for the past 17 years.

Fernando Verdasco wants to sue Roland Garros after being forced to quit French Open 2020

Serena&nbsp;Williams on Wednesday withdrew from the Roland Garros owing to an Achilles injury. The three-time champion Serena was schedule to take on Bulgaria’s Tsvetana Pironkova in the second-round of French Open but opted out of the Grand Slam due to Achilles injury.

Serena, who has won 23 Grand Slam titles, was looking to equal Margaret Court’s all-time record of 24 but pulled out of the tournament as she said she would need four to six weeks to recover properly. Serena added that she has been struggling to walk.&nbsp;

"I think I need four to six weeks of sitting and doing nothing," Williams told a news conference.

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Serena Williams has withdrawn from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> with an achilles injury. <a href="https://t.co/u6vGa9JCkX">pic.twitter.com/u6vGa9JCkX</a>
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/status/1311250057786585088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"I have been struggling to walk so that's a telltale sign that I should try to recover. Achilles is an injury you don't want to play with - I think it was one of the worst, don't want to get to that point, I want it to get better."

Serena suffered the blow during her US Open semi-final defeat to Victoria Azarenka earlier in September. However, she carried on playing tennis and on Monday, defeated fellow American Kristie Ahn 7-6 (7-2) 6-0 in the first round of Roland Garros. But she said she was struggling physically.&nbsp;

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"I always give a hundred per cent... and I take solace in that."<a href="https://twitter.com/serenawilliams?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@serenawilliams</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> <a href="https://t.co/t9FNt49Prb">pic.twitter.com/t9FNt49Prb</a>
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/status/1311252071400833027?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

"In the second set I felt I needed to walk with a limp," Williams added. "I had to focus on walking straight so I wasn't limping. I tried and always give 100%, I take solace in that.

"I'm not sure I will play another tournament this year. It is not an acute injury, it is a nagging injury. I ran into bad timing and bad luck really." 
&nbsp;

Serena Williams on Wednesday withdrew from the Roland Garros owing to an Achilles injury. The three-time champion Serena was schedule to take on Bulgaria’s Tsvetana Pironkova in the second-round of French Open but opted out of the Grand Slam due to Achilles injury.

Serena Williams on Wednesday withdrew from the Roland Garros owing to an Achilles injury. The three-time champion Serena was schedule to take on Bulgaria’s Tsvetana Pironkova in the second-round of French Open but opted out of the Grand Slam due to Achilles injury. Serena, who has won 23 Grand Slam titles, was looking to equal Margaret Court’s all-time record of 24 but pulled out of the tournament as she said she would need four to six weeks to recover properly. Serena added that she has been struggling to walk. "I think I need four to six weeks of sitting and doing nothing," Williams told a news conference. Serena Williams has withdrawn from #RolandGarros with an achilles injury. pic.twitter.com/u6vGa9JCkX — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) September 30, 2020 × "I have been struggling to walk so that's a telltale sign that I should try to recover. Achilles is an injury you don't want to play with - I think it was one of the worst, don't want to get to that point, I want it to get better." Serena suffered the blow during her US Open semi-final defeat to Victoria Azarenka earlier in September. However, she carried on playing tennis and on Monday, defeated fellow American Kristie Ahn 7-6 (7-2) 6-0 in the first round of Roland Garros. But she said she was struggling physically. "I always give a hundred per cent... and I take solace in that."@serenawilliams #RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/t9FNt49Prb — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) September 30, 2020 × "In the second set I felt I needed to walk with a limp," Williams added. "I had to focus on walking straight so I wasn't limping. I tried and always give 100%, I take solace in that. "I'm not sure I will play another tournament this year. It is not an acute injury, it is a nagging injury. I ran into bad timing and bad luck really."

Serena Williams pulls out of Roland Garros due to Achilles injury

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