Top seed Daniil Medvedev captured his fourth ATP Masters 1000 crown here on Monday (IST), overcoming American Reilly Opelka 6-4, 6-3 to become the first Russian champion at the National Bank Open since Marat Safin in 2000. 
 
The 25-year-old took down big-server John Isner in the semifinals as he stood two or three feet closer to the baseline on return to counter the height and angle of the serve. Medvedev successfully repeated this against 6`11" Opelka, breaking twice as he won in 85 minutes. 
 
"I could not have dreamt of [this] at one point," Medvedev said in his on-court interview. "With Masters, with Novak [Djokovic] and Rafael [Nadal] playing, it seemed like an untouchable achievement. Now I have four wins in five finals, which is a good score. I am just happy. I want to achieve more. I am really happy I achieved this in Canada. 
 
"Even today, he [Opelka] showed up, he played some really good points. He was fighting until the end, he saved break points in crucial moments. Playing your first [Masters 1000] final is not easy. I played my first in Canada and won only three games," Medvedev told atptour.com. 
 
"Playing Canada and Cincinnati, the goal is to win as many matches as possible. I was able to do it two years ago and I will try and do it again." 
 
The world No. 2 has now won 12 tour-level titles, with 11 of those triumphs coming on hard courts. He owns a 4-1 record in Masters 1000 finals, also capturing trophies in Cincinnati, Shanghai and Paris, with his one defeat in a final coming in Montreal to Rafael Nadal in 2019. 
 
The 2020 Nitto ATP Finals champion has lifted trophies this year on the hard courts in Marseille and grass in Marbella. Medvedev also guided Russia to the ATP Cup title in February before advancing to his second Grand Slam final at the Australian Open. 
 
Medvedev, who was competing in his first Masters 1000 championship match of the year, now holds a 4-1 ATP head-to-head against Opelka, having also defeated the 23-year-old at the French Open, in Miami and Washington. 
 
"When you play Reilly, I think still the biggest factor is how you serve and how you return. Actually, my serve was not on top point today. That`s why I had breakpoints to save. That`s why it was sometimes close calls on my serve," Medvedev said. "But I was very good on return. I managed to put pressure on him almost nonstop. I think he didn`t almost have maybe one or two easy games in the match. That`s what made the difference, if we talk about tennis. 
 
"[When] I played my first Masters final, I was happy just to be there playing against Rafa. I always try my best, but something was wrong, so I lost super easy and superfast. It can be the same for everybody. I know for me I think experience is the key... This week he beat some really strong guys to be in the final, so probably next time in the final [we] can wait for a more dangerous Reilly than today." 
 
Opelka was competing in his maiden Masters 1000 final on Sunday, having enjoyed a run to the last four at Internazionali BNL d`Italia in Rome in May. The 23-year-old, who recorded his first top-5 win against world No. 3 Stefanos Tsitsipas in the semifinals, has won two tour-level titles in New York in 2019 and Delray Beach in 2020.

Top seed Daniil Medvedev captured his fourth ATP Masters 1000 crown here on Monday (IST), overcoming American Reilly Opelka 6-4, 6-3 to become the first Russian champion at the National Bank Open since Marat Safin in 2000.

Top seed Daniil Medvedev captured his fourth ATP Masters 1000 crown here on Monday (IST), overcoming American Reilly Opelka 6-4, 6-3 to become the first Russian champion at the National Bank Open since Marat Safin in 2000. The 25-year-old took down big-server John Isner in the semifinals as he stood two or three feet closer to the baseline on return to counter the height and angle of the serve. Medvedev successfully repeated this against 6`11" Opelka, breaking twice as he won in 85 minutes. "I could not have dreamt of [this] at one point," Medvedev said in his on-court interview. "With Masters, with Novak [Djokovic] and Rafael [Nadal] playing, it seemed like an untouchable achievement. Now I have four wins in five finals, which is a good score. I am just happy. I want to achieve more. I am really happy I achieved this in Canada. "Even today, he [Opelka] showed up, he played some really good points. He was fighting until the end, he saved break points in crucial moments. Playing your first [Masters 1000] final is not easy. I played my first in Canada and won only three games," Medvedev told atptour.com. "Playing Canada and Cincinnati, the goal is to win as many matches as possible. I was able to do it two years ago and I will try and do it again." The world No. 2 has now won 12 tour-level titles, with 11 of those triumphs coming on hard courts. He owns a 4-1 record in Masters 1000 finals, also capturing trophies in Cincinnati, Shanghai and Paris, with his one defeat in a final coming in Montreal to Rafael Nadal in 2019. The 2020 Nitto ATP Finals champion has lifted trophies this year on the hard courts in Marseille and grass in Marbella. Medvedev also guided Russia to the ATP Cup title in February before advancing to his second Grand Slam final at the Australian Open. Medvedev, who was competing in his first Masters 1000 championship match of the year, now holds a 4-1 ATP head-to-head against Opelka, having also defeated the 23-year-old at the French Open, in Miami and Washington. "When you play Reilly, I think still the biggest factor is how you serve and how you return. Actually, my serve was not on top point today. That`s why I had breakpoints to save. That`s why it was sometimes close calls on my serve," Medvedev said. "But I was very good on return. I managed to put pressure on him almost nonstop. I think he didn`t almost have maybe one or two easy games in the match. That`s what made the difference, if we talk about tennis. "[When] I played my first Masters final, I was happy just to be there playing against Rafa. I always try my best, but something was wrong, so I lost super easy and superfast. It can be the same for everybody. I know for me I think experience is the key... This week he beat some really strong guys to be in the final, so probably next time in the final [we] can wait for a more dangerous Reilly than today." Opelka was competing in his maiden Masters 1000 final on Sunday, having enjoyed a run to the last four at Internazionali BNL d`Italia in Rome in May. The 23-year-old, who recorded his first top-5 win against world No. 3 Stefanos Tsitsipas in the semifinals, has won two tour-level titles in New York in 2019 and Delray Beach in 2020.

Tennis - Daniil Medvedev tames giant Opelka for Toronto title

Tennis ace Roger Federer has opened up over speculations and the expected timing of his return to the courts. Since Federer withdrew from the ATP Toronto and Cincinnati Masters due to fitness concerns, there have been talks over his participation in the US Open.&nbsp;

The 20-time Grand Slam champion had reached the Wimbledon quarter-finals this year but had also pulled out from the Tokyo Olympics due to a knee injury.&nbsp;

"I'm fine. I was on holiday. I haven't done anything for a while because of my knee. I had to stop everything after Wimbledon," Federer told Blick newspaper while addressing his return.&nbsp;

"This week, I have to meet my doctors and my team, and then we will see what happens next. For now, everything is still a bit uncertain."

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The 40-year-old Federer, who has only played 13 matches in 2021, said he was learning to adjust to the fact that recovering from niggles takes two weeks rather than two days.&nbsp;

The US Open gets underway on August 30 but Federer, whose last Slam title came at the 2018 Australian Open, did not say whether he would be taking part in the last of the year's four majors.

"It was different before. The questions were simple: what is my place in the ranking? What will my next tournament be?", he said.

"Today, it's more difficult: how do I feel when I start training again? What are my goals? How to reconcile all this with the family? What does the rest of the team say?

"I am much more enthusiastic than before, the attitude is different. It's really completely different from 10 years ago."&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

Tennis ace Roger Federer has opened up over speculations and the expected timing of his return to the courts. Since Federer withdrew from the ATP Toronto and Cincinnati Masters due to fitness concerns, there have been talks over his participation in the US Open.

Tennis ace Roger Federer has opened up over speculations and the expected timing of his return to the courts. Since Federer withdrew from the ATP Toronto and Cincinnati Masters due to fitness concerns, there have been talks over his participation in the US Open. The 20-time Grand Slam champion had reached the Wimbledon quarter-finals this year but had also pulled out from the Tokyo Olympics due to a knee injury. "I'm fine. I was on holiday. I haven't done anything for a while because of my knee. I had to stop everything after Wimbledon," Federer told Blick newspaper while addressing his return. "This week, I have to meet my doctors and my team, and then we will see what happens next. For now, everything is still a bit uncertain." ALSO READ | Tennis: Stefanos Tsitsipas making noise in Toronto with Big Three absent The 40-year-old Federer, who has only played 13 matches in 2021, said he was learning to adjust to the fact that recovering from niggles takes two weeks rather than two days. The US Open gets underway on August 30 but Federer, whose last Slam title came at the 2018 Australian Open, did not say whether he would be taking part in the last of the year's four majors. "It was different before. The questions were simple: what is my place in the ranking? What will my next tournament be?", he said. "Today, it's more difficult: how do I feel when I start training again? What are my goals? How to reconcile all this with the family? What does the rest of the team say? "I am much more enthusiastic than before, the attitude is different. It's really completely different from 10 years ago." (with inputs from agencies)

Tennis ace Roger Federer says return date 'still a bit uncertain'

World number four Rafa Nadal on Tuesday said he had withdrawn from the Masters 1000 hardcourt event underway in Toronto due to persistent pain in his injured left foot.

The injury kept the 20-time Grand Slam champion out of Wimbledon and the Tokyo Olympics this year and played a role in his shock third-round exit at the Washington Open last week.

"I have had this issue for a couple of months, as people know," said Nadal, a five-time winner of the event which was cancelled last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

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"Of course, it is not a happy situation after all the success that I had here in Canada, not being able to play this year after missing a year."

He said the decision was a tough one but added that the most important thing was getting better so he could go back to appreciate his time on the court.

"Today, with this pain, I am not able to enjoy it, and I really don't believe that I have the chance to fight for the things that I really need to fight for," he said.

Nadal has said he has been dealing with a recurring foot issue since 2005, which returned at this year's Roland Garros, where he fell to eventual champion Novak Djokovic in the semi-finals before deciding to sit out two of the year's biggest events.

Nadal will now turn his attention to getting fit ahead of the U.S. Open in New York.

"I really wanted to play here a lot, but now is the moment to make a decision, and this is, unfortunately, the decision that I have taken, and probably in the next couple of days we are going to know more," he said.

Second seed Nadal will be replaced by the lucky loser and fellow Spaniard Feliciano Lopez in the main draw.

World number four Rafa Nadal on Tuesday said he had withdrawn from the Masters 1000 hardcourt event underway in Toronto due to persistent pain in his injured left foot.

World number four Rafa Nadal on Tuesday said he had withdrawn from the Masters 1000 hardcourt event underway in Toronto due to persistent pain in his injured left foot. The injury kept the 20-time Grand Slam champion out of Wimbledon and the Tokyo Olympics this year and played a role in his shock third-round exit at the Washington Open last week. "I have had this issue for a couple of months, as people know," said Nadal, a five-time winner of the event which was cancelled last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. ALSO READ: Tennis: Novak Djokovic withdraws from Western & Southern Open "Of course, it is not a happy situation after all the success that I had here in Canada, not being able to play this year after missing a year." He said the decision was a tough one but added that the most important thing was getting better so he could go back to appreciate his time on the court. "Today, with this pain, I am not able to enjoy it, and I really don't believe that I have the chance to fight for the things that I really need to fight for," he said. Nadal has said he has been dealing with a recurring foot issue since 2005, which returned at this year's Roland Garros, where he fell to eventual champion Novak Djokovic in the semi-finals before deciding to sit out two of the year's biggest events. Nadal will now turn his attention to getting fit ahead of the U.S. Open in New York. "I really wanted to play here a lot, but now is the moment to make a decision, and this is, unfortunately, the decision that I have taken, and probably in the next couple of days we are going to know more," he said. Second seed Nadal will be replaced by the lucky loser and fellow Spaniard Feliciano Lopez in the main draw.

Tennis: Rafael Nadal withdraws from Toronto Masters with persistent foot injury

World number one Novak Djokovic withdrew on Monday from this month's Western &amp; Southern Open in Cincinnati, saying he needed more time to recuperate from a season in which he won three Grand Slam tournaments and competed at the Tokyo Olympics. 
 
"I'm taking a bit longer to recover after quite a physically taxing journey from Australian Open up to Tokyo," he wrote on Twitter. 
 
"Sadly, this means I won't be ready to compete in Cincinnati this year so I'll be turning my focus to the U.S. Open and spending more time with my family. 
 
"Can't wait to see you in New York soon!"

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Djokovic, a 20-time Grand Slam champion, is a two-time champion at the Masters 1000 hardcourt event played at the Lindner Family Tennis Center in Ohio. 
 
Djokovic had won all three of the Grand Slam tournaments he entered this year and had sought to be the first man to win all four and an Olympic gold in a calendar year. 
 
But those plans were dashed when he lost to eventual gold medallist Alexander Zverev of Germany in the Olympic semi-final and then to Spain's Pablo Carreno Busta in the bronze medal match. 
 
The Western &amp; Southern Open runs from Aug. 14 to Aug. 22.

World number one Novak Djokovic withdrew on Monday from this month's Western & Southern Open in Cincinnati, saying he needed more time to recuperate from a season in which he won three Grand Slam tournaments and competed at the Tokyo Olympics.

World number one Novak Djokovic withdrew on Monday from this month's Western & Southern Open in Cincinnati, saying he needed more time to recuperate from a season in which he won three Grand Slam tournaments and competed at the Tokyo Olympics. "I'm taking a bit longer to recover after quite a physically taxing journey from Australian Open up to Tokyo," he wrote on Twitter. "Sadly, this means I won't be ready to compete in Cincinnati this year so I'll be turning my focus to the U.S. Open and spending more time with my family. "Can't wait to see you in New York soon!" ALSO READ | Tennis: Rafael Nadal hopes to find footing at Toronto hard-court event ❤️ @CincyTennis pic.twitter.com/J1N19eKOp4 — Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) August 9, 2021 × Djokovic, a 20-time Grand Slam champion, is a two-time champion at the Masters 1000 hardcourt event played at the Lindner Family Tennis Center in Ohio. Djokovic had won all three of the Grand Slam tournaments he entered this year and had sought to be the first man to win all four and an Olympic gold in a calendar year. But those plans were dashed when he lost to eventual gold medallist Alexander Zverev of Germany in the Olympic semi-final and then to Spain's Pablo Carreno Busta in the bronze medal match. The Western & Southern Open runs from Aug. 14 to Aug. 22.

Tennis: Novak Djokovic withdraws from Western & Southern Open

Former champion Andy Murray has been added to the main draw of the U.S. Open following the withdrawal of Swiss Stan Wawrinka, tournament organizers said on Monday.

Murray, who had hip surgeries in 2018 and 2019, has only played a handful of ATP Tour-level events this year having missed the Australian Open because of a positive COVID-19 test and opting out of competing at the French Open.

The 34-year-old Murray reached the third round at Wimbledon but withdrew from the men's singles tournament at the Tokyo Olympics on the advice of his medical team, dashing his hopes for a third consecutive gold medal.

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Murray, who won the first of his three career Grand Slam titles at the 2012 U.S. Open, did represent Britain in the men's doubles event in Tokyo where he lost in the quarter-finals.

At last year's U.S. Open, Murray suffered a straight-set loss in the second round to Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime.

Wawrinka, who captured the last of his three career Grand Slam titles at the 2016 U.S. Open, withdrew as he continues to recover from foot surgery.

The 36-year-old former world number three underwent an operation on his left foot this year and has not played on the tour since an opening round defeat at the Qatar Open in March.

The U.S. Open runs from August 30th to 12th September.

Former champion Andy Murray has been added to the main draw of the U.S. Open following the withdrawal of Swiss Stan Wawrinka, tournament organizers said on Monday.

Former champion Andy Murray has been added to the main draw of the U.S. Open following the withdrawal of Swiss Stan Wawrinka, tournament organizers said on Monday. Murray, who had hip surgeries in 2018 and 2019, has only played a handful of ATP Tour-level events this year having missed the Australian Open because of a positive COVID-19 test and opting out of competing at the French Open. The 34-year-old Murray reached the third round at Wimbledon but withdrew from the men's singles tournament at the Tokyo Olympics on the advice of his medical team, dashing his hopes for a third consecutive gold medal. ALSO READ: Tennis: Novak Djokovic withdraws from Western & Southern Open Murray, who won the first of his three career Grand Slam titles at the 2012 U.S. Open, did represent Britain in the men's doubles event in Tokyo where he lost in the quarter-finals. At last year's U.S. Open, Murray suffered a straight-set loss in the second round to Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime. Wawrinka, who captured the last of his three career Grand Slam titles at the 2016 U.S. Open, withdrew as he continues to recover from foot surgery. The 36-year-old former world number three underwent an operation on his left foot this year and has not played on the tour since an opening round defeat at the Qatar Open in March. The U.S. Open runs from August 30th to 12th September.

Tennis: Andy Murray added to US Open main draw after Stan Wawrinka withdrawal

Stefanos Tsitsipas said on Sunday coaching during matches still takes place on the ATP Tour and that rules in place banning such instruction need to be changed. 
 
Tsitsipas, speaking in Toronto where he is the third seed for the Masters 1000 hardcourt event, feels there needs to be a way to allow communication between coaches and players that is not overly intrusive to the flow of a match. 
 
"Some referees have been catching the coaches that have been coaching, some others haven't," said Tsitsipas. "It has been there all these years, it's never going to change, it's not going to stop. 
 
"My opinion on that is that coaching should be allowed, there should be certain regulations and certain ways to enhance it into players performance without it becoming too much." 
 
The issue of players receiving instruction during matches came to the forefront at the 2018 U.S. Open final when Serena Williams was warned by the chair umpire after her coach gestured from the stands during the showdown against Naomi Osaka. 
 
The penalty infuriated Williams and she was later docked a point and a game for further code violations before falling in straight sets. 
 
In 2020, the WTA decided existing rules were difficult to regulate and so decided to allow, on a trial basis, coaching from the stands. 
 
While such moves may upset traditionalists, Tsitsipas feels the game needs to evolve. 
 
"What's the point of having a coach with you if you can't get the whole benefit out of it," said Tsitsipas. 
 
"I know tennis is a sport where you get to make the decisions and you can decide for yourself, but sometimes an eye from the outside it can always help and maybe change certain outcomes of matches." 
&nbsp;

Stefanos Tsitsipas said on Sunday coaching during matches still takes place on the ATP Tour and that rules in place banning such instruction need to be changed. Tsitsipas, speaking in Toronto where he is the third seed for the Masters 1000 hardcourt event, feels there needs to be a way to allow communication between coaches and players that is not overly intrusive to the flow of a match.

Stefanos Tsitsipas said on Sunday coaching during matches still takes place on the ATP Tour and that rules in place banning such instruction need to be changed. Tsitsipas, speaking in Toronto where he is the third seed for the Masters 1000 hardcourt event, feels there needs to be a way to allow communication between coaches and players that is not overly intrusive to the flow of a match. "Some referees have been catching the coaches that have been coaching, some others haven't," said Tsitsipas. "It has been there all these years, it's never going to change, it's not going to stop. "My opinion on that is that coaching should be allowed, there should be certain regulations and certain ways to enhance it into players performance without it becoming too much." The issue of players receiving instruction during matches came to the forefront at the 2018 U.S. Open final when Serena Williams was warned by the chair umpire after her coach gestured from the stands during the showdown against Naomi Osaka. The penalty infuriated Williams and she was later docked a point and a game for further code violations before falling in straight sets. In 2020, the WTA decided existing rules were difficult to regulate and so decided to allow, on a trial basis, coaching from the stands. While such moves may upset traditionalists, Tsitsipas feels the game needs to evolve. "What's the point of having a coach with you if you can't get the whole benefit out of it," said Tsitsipas. "I know tennis is a sport where you get to make the decisions and you can decide for yourself, but sometimes an eye from the outside it can always help and maybe change certain outcomes of matches."

Tennis: Stefanos Tsitsipas calls for coaching to be allowed during matches

&nbsp;Rafa Nadal said on Sunday he had not yet fully recovered from a foot issue that kept him out of Wimbledon and the Tokyo Olympics but hopes a U.S. Open tune-up event in Toronto will help him to regain confidence in his on-court movements.

Nadal's first event since his semi-final loss at the French Open ended in a shock third-round exit in Washington on Thursday and the Spaniard admitted his left foot was holding him back.

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"It's been a couple of tough months for me in terms of physical issues," world number three Nadal told reporters at the Masters 1000 event in Toronto, where first-round action starts on Monday.

"I know I am not at my peak yet but I think I have been practising better than what I played in Washington so I am excited to keep going here and be able to play a little bit better than there."

Nadal said a recurring foot issue he has been dealing with since 2005 returned at Roland Garros, where he fell to eventual champion Novak Djokovic in the semi-finals before deciding to sit out two of the year's biggest events.

"Some moments the situation is worse and some moments the situation is better," said Nadal.

"After Paris my foot was not recovering. I was in a lot of pain for a couple of weeks so I couldn't train. I stayed around 20 days without touching a racquet, trying to recover."

Nadal, who as the second seed in Toronto has a first-round bye, said that while he would like to taste victory before heading to the Aug. 30-Sept. 12 U.S. Open his main focus is regaining confidence in his foot.

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"I need to find again the positive feelings with my foot," said 20-times Grand Slam champion Nadal.

"I really need to have a couple of weeks with less pain to have the confidence again on my movements, knowing that I will be able to go out and compete for a long time ... that's something that I am looking for in this tournament."

Rafa Nadal said on Sunday he had not yet fully recovered from a foot issue that kept him out of Wimbledon and the Tokyo Olympics but hopes a U.S. Open tune-up event in Toronto will help him to regain confidence in his on-court movements.

Rafa Nadal said on Sunday he had not yet fully recovered from a foot issue that kept him out of Wimbledon and the Tokyo Olympics but hopes a U.S. Open tune-up event in Toronto will help him to regain confidence in his on-court movements. Nadal's first event since his semi-final loss at the French Open ended in a shock third-round exit in Washington on Thursday and the Spaniard admitted his left foot was holding him back. ALSO READ: Tennis: Stefanos Tsitsipas calls for coaching to be allowed during matches "It's been a couple of tough months for me in terms of physical issues," world number three Nadal told reporters at the Masters 1000 event in Toronto, where first-round action starts on Monday. "I know I am not at my peak yet but I think I have been practising better than what I played in Washington so I am excited to keep going here and be able to play a little bit better than there." Nadal said a recurring foot issue he has been dealing with since 2005 returned at Roland Garros, where he fell to eventual champion Novak Djokovic in the semi-finals before deciding to sit out two of the year's biggest events. "Some moments the situation is worse and some moments the situation is better," said Nadal. "After Paris my foot was not recovering. I was in a lot of pain for a couple of weeks so I couldn't train. I stayed around 20 days without touching a racquet, trying to recover." Nadal, who as the second seed in Toronto has a first-round bye, said that while he would like to taste victory before heading to the Aug. 30-Sept. 12 U.S. Open his main focus is regaining confidence in his foot. ALSO READ: Football: Liverpool's Andy Robertson twists ankle in Bilbao friendly "I need to find again the positive feelings with my foot," said 20-times Grand Slam champion Nadal. "I really need to have a couple of weeks with less pain to have the confidence again on my movements, knowing that I will be able to go out and compete for a long time ... that's something that I am looking for in this tournament."

Tennis: Rafael Nadal hopes to find footing at Toronto hard-court event

Rafael Nadal&nbsp;made a triumphant return from a two-month layoff on Wednesday but aggravated a foot injury and needed a third-set tie-breaker to outlast American Jack Sock and advance at the ATP Citi Open.

The 35-year-old Spanish left-hander, a 20-time Grand Slam champion making his Washington debut, dispatched 192nd-ranked Sock 6-2, 4-6, 7-6 (7/1) in a three-hour thriller before about 7,000 spectators at the US Open hardcourt tuneup event.

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"My fitness is fine," Nadal said. "I need to have a little bit less pain in the foot."

Third-ranked Nadal had not played since losing to top-ranked Novak Djokovic in June's French Open semi-finals, skipping Wimbledon and the Olympics due to the left foot injury that hindered him in the match.

"The foot was hurting me," Nadal said. "It was painful tonight. Hopefully, it will feel better tomorrow. Winning the match helps.

"I finished the match playing better. That's important. I hope to be ready for tomorrow."

Top seed Nadal, chasing his 89th career title, will face 50th-ranked Lloyd Harris of South Africa on Thursday for a quarter-final berth.

Nadal, Djokovic, and Roger Federer all enter the US Open with a men's record 20 career Slam titles, with Djokovic trying to complete the first men's calendar-year Grand Slam since Rod Laver in 1969.

An electric atmosphere greeted Nadal's first US match since beating Daniil Medvedev in the 2019 US Open final and his first hardcourt match since February.

"In terms of energy, in terms of the crowd, has been amazing," Nadal said.

Nadal improved to 6-0 all-time against Sock by taking their first meeting since 2017 but needed to grind out a dramatic victory in a tension-packed duel.

"These kinds of matches help you get better," Nadal said. "You need matches like this to be fitter after a month without competing.

"But that's part of the process, so it's something I am not worried about.

"If I'm able to improve with my foot, I think the rest of the things going to come step by step."

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Nadal took the first five points of the tie-breaker and clinched it with a forehand winner.

"I know will not be easy after a couple of months coming back from a tough situation with my foot, a couple of months without playing," Nadal said. "But here I am. I fighted. I'm able to play again."

Sock broke Nadal to open the final set and fought off a breakpoint in the second game, Nadal sending a forehand just wide.

Fans yelled for a Nadal comeback, prompting Sock to blow a kiss to the crowd after a winner on his way to taking a 3-1 lead.

Nadal broke back in the sixth game, making a backhand save on a drop volley that Sock could only swat into the net to level matters at 3-3, Nadal pumping his fists and screaming in celebration.

Nadal showed maestro moments with his shotmaking, including a backhand overhead smash winner in holding the seventh game, as they battled into the tie-breaker.

Rafael Nadal made a triumphant return from a two-month layoff on Wednesday but aggravated a foot injury and needed a third-set tie-breaker to outlast American Jack Sock and advance at the ATP Citi Open.

Rafael Nadal made a triumphant return from a two-month layoff on Wednesday but aggravated a foot injury and needed a third-set tie-breaker to outlast American Jack Sock and advance at the ATP Citi Open. The 35-year-old Spanish left-hander, a 20-time Grand Slam champion making his Washington debut, dispatched 192nd-ranked Sock 6-2, 4-6, 7-6 (7/1) in a three-hour thriller before about 7,000 spectators at the US Open hardcourt tuneup event. ALSO READ: Olympics 2020: India end 41-year medal wait in men's hockey as they win bronze "My fitness is fine," Nadal said. "I need to have a little bit less pain in the foot." Third-ranked Nadal had not played since losing to top-ranked Novak Djokovic in June's French Open semi-finals, skipping Wimbledon and the Olympics due to the left foot injury that hindered him in the match. "The foot was hurting me," Nadal said. "It was painful tonight. Hopefully, it will feel better tomorrow. Winning the match helps. "I finished the match playing better. That's important. I hope to be ready for tomorrow." Top seed Nadal, chasing his 89th career title, will face 50th-ranked Lloyd Harris of South Africa on Thursday for a quarter-final berth. Nadal, Djokovic, and Roger Federer all enter the US Open with a men's record 20 career Slam titles, with Djokovic trying to complete the first men's calendar-year Grand Slam since Rod Laver in 1969. An electric atmosphere greeted Nadal's first US match since beating Daniil Medvedev in the 2019 US Open final and his first hardcourt match since February. "In terms of energy, in terms of the crowd, has been amazing," Nadal said. Nadal improved to 6-0 all-time against Sock by taking their first meeting since 2017 but needed to grind out a dramatic victory in a tension-packed duel. "These kinds of matches help you get better," Nadal said. "You need matches like this to be fitter after a month without competing. "But that's part of the process, so it's something I am not worried about. "If I'm able to improve with my foot, I think the rest of the things going to come step by step." ALSO READ: From PM Modi to Akshay Kumar: Congratulations pour in after India's historic win in hockey at Tokyo Olympics Nadal took the first five points of the tie-breaker and clinched it with a forehand winner. "I know will not be easy after a couple of months coming back from a tough situation with my foot, a couple of months without playing," Nadal said. "But here I am. I fighted. I'm able to play again." Sock broke Nadal to open the final set and fought off a breakpoint in the second game, Nadal sending a forehand just wide. Fans yelled for a Nadal comeback, prompting Sock to blow a kiss to the crowd after a winner on his way to taking a 3-1 lead. Nadal broke back in the sixth game, making a backhand save on a drop volley that Sock could only swat into the net to level matters at 3-3, Nadal pumping his fists and screaming in celebration. Nadal showed maestro moments with his shotmaking, including a backhand overhead smash winner in holding the seventh game, as they battled into the tie-breaker.

Tennis: Rafael Nadal battles to victory in return from two-month layoff

Australia were handed the bronze medal in the mixed doubles after world number one Novak Djokovic pulled out on account of an injury yet Ashleigh Barty said on Sunday they completely deserved the medal subsequent to playing "incredible" tennis this week.&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic had joined forces with Nina Stojanovic for the mixed doubles yet pulled out with a shoulder injury after to losing to&nbsp;Pablo&nbsp;Carreno&nbsp;Busta&nbsp;in the singles bronze medal match, guaranteeing women's World number one Ashleigh Barty and accomplice John Peers of the third spot at the Tokyo Olympics on Saturday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-belinda-bencic-dedicates-singles-gold-to-idols-roger-federer-martina-hingis-402083" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: Belinda Bencic dedicates singles gold to idols Roger Federer, Martina Hingis</a>

"We played incredible tennis this week," Barty, a two-time Grand Slam champion fresh off her victory at Wimbledon, told reporters. "It was a unique circumstance to win the bronze but we deserved it.

"For me, being my first experience (at the Olympics), it is quite remarkable. We did not want to make up the numbers. We wanted to win a medal for our country.

"To be able to contribute to our medal count is really exciting. A massive highlight of my career being able to call myself an Olympian and a medallist."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-tokyo-2020-olympics-novak-djokovic-smashes-racket-during-bronze-medal-match-402078" hreflang="en">Watch: Tokyo 2020 Olympics — Novak Djokovic smashes racket during bronze medal match</a>

Ashleigh Barty was shocked in the first round of the singles by Spain's 48th-positioned Sara Sorribes Tormo, while her women's singles run with Storm Sanders finished in the quarter-final.&nbsp;

In the mixed doubles semi-finals, Peers and Barty lost in straight sets to Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova and Andrey Rublev of the Russian Olympic Committee.

"We obviously wanted to have the challenge of playing one of the best nations in the world. But regardless of whether we got on the court or not I feel we deserved it. We definitely deserved to be in the bronze medal match," she said.

"No matter what format, singles, doubles or mixed, I came here with a focus to win a medal for our nation."

Australia were handed the bronze medal in the mixed doubles after world number one Novak Djokovic pulled out on account of an injury yet Ashleigh Barty said on Sunday they completely deserved the medal subsequent to playing "incredible" tennis this week.

Australia were handed the bronze medal in the mixed doubles after world number one Novak Djokovic pulled out on account of an injury yet Ashleigh Barty said on Sunday they completely deserved the medal subsequent to playing "incredible" tennis this week. Novak Djokovic had joined forces with Nina Stojanovic for the mixed doubles yet pulled out with a shoulder injury after to losing to Pablo Carreno Busta in the singles bronze medal match, guaranteeing women's World number one Ashleigh Barty and accomplice John Peers of the third spot at the Tokyo Olympics on Saturday. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Belinda Bencic dedicates singles gold to idols Roger Federer, Martina Hingis "We played incredible tennis this week," Barty, a two-time Grand Slam champion fresh off her victory at Wimbledon, told reporters. "It was a unique circumstance to win the bronze but we deserved it. "For me, being my first experience (at the Olympics), it is quite remarkable. We did not want to make up the numbers. We wanted to win a medal for our country. "To be able to contribute to our medal count is really exciting. A massive highlight of my career being able to call myself an Olympian and a medallist." ALSO READ: Watch: Tokyo 2020 Olympics — Novak Djokovic smashes racket during bronze medal match Ashleigh Barty was shocked in the first round of the singles by Spain's 48th-positioned Sara Sorribes Tormo, while her women's singles run with Storm Sanders finished in the quarter-final. In the mixed doubles semi-finals, Peers and Barty lost in straight sets to Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova and Andrey Rublev of the Russian Olympic Committee. "We obviously wanted to have the challenge of playing one of the best nations in the world. But regardless of whether we got on the court or not I feel we deserved it. We definitely deserved to be in the bronze medal match," she said. "No matter what format, singles, doubles or mixed, I came here with a focus to win a medal for our nation."

Tokyo Olympics: Australia deserved mixed doubles bronze, says Ashleigh Barty

Pablo Carreno Busta beat World No. 1 Novak Djokovic in the men's singles bronze medal match at the Tokyo Olympics. That gave Carreno Busta his first Olympic award.

Throughout the match, Pablo Carreno Busta possessed a strong forehand against Novak Djokovic, who looked depleted from his elimination round loss to Alexander Zverev.&nbsp;

He even held a match point on Novak Djokovic's serve during the second-set sudden tiebreaker, yet World no.1 showed a lot of flexibility to save it before in the long run winning the tiebreaker 8-6. He also went on to win the deciding set. &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;Tokyo Olympics: India's star badminton player PV Sindhu to face He Bingjiao in bronze medal match

Addressing the Spanish press later, Pablo Carreno Busta communicated amusement at his presentation in the bronze medal match, considering it the greatest accomplishment of his life. He likewise expressed gratitude towards his fans for propelling him to come back from his elimination round loss to Karen Khachanov.&nbsp;

"I think this my biggest achievement. It's incredible," he said.

"After yesterday's loss I felt people's love and&nbsp;support and I had to give my all. I've been able to overcome losing the second set thanks to all the support. It's just bronze but I gave my all," he added.

Carreno Busta pondered the mid-match stagger, asserting that he thought he was done after Novak Djokovic took the subsequent set. He added that it was incredible that he could stick it out in the circumstance and get back an Olympic medal.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;Tokyo Olympics athletics: US sprinter Richardson applauds Jamaica's 100m clean sweep

"I'm in a cloud. After losing 2nd set I thought it was over. Winning over the World No. 1 is very tough. After losing the second set I thought I'd not be able to do it. But I was! It's incredible." he said.

“It’s a bronze medal, but for me it’s like a gold. I haven’t won the tournament, but it’s the best title of my career,” he added.

"I came here for a medal, it's been tough but I've got it! For my girlfriend, my mother, Gijón, Spain," he concluded.

Pablo Carreno Busta beat World No. 1 Novak Djokovic in the men's singles bronze medal match at the Tokyo Olympics. That gave Carreno Busta his first Olympic award.

Pablo Carreno Busta beat World No. 1 Novak Djokovic in the men's singles bronze medal match at the Tokyo Olympics. That gave Carreno Busta his first Olympic award. Throughout the match, Pablo Carreno Busta possessed a strong forehand against Novak Djokovic, who looked depleted from his elimination round loss to Alexander Zverev. He even held a match point on Novak Djokovic's serve during the second-set sudden tiebreaker, yet World no.1 showed a lot of flexibility to save it before in the long run winning the tiebreaker 8-6. He also went on to win the deciding set. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: India's star badminton player PV Sindhu to face He Bingjiao in bronze medal match Addressing the Spanish press later, Pablo Carreno Busta communicated amusement at his presentation in the bronze medal match, considering it the greatest accomplishment of his life. He likewise expressed gratitude towards his fans for propelling him to come back from his elimination round loss to Karen Khachanov. "I think this my biggest achievement. It's incredible," he said. "After yesterday's loss I felt people's love and support and I had to give my all. I've been able to overcome losing the second set thanks to all the support. It's just bronze but I gave my all," he added. Carreno Busta pondered the mid-match stagger, asserting that he thought he was done after Novak Djokovic took the subsequent set. He added that it was incredible that he could stick it out in the circumstance and get back an Olympic medal. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics athletics: US sprinter Richardson applauds Jamaica's 100m clean sweep "I'm in a cloud. After losing 2nd set I thought it was over. Winning over the World No. 1 is very tough. After losing the second set I thought I'd not be able to do it. But I was! It's incredible." he said. “It’s a bronze medal, but for me it’s like a gold. I haven’t won the tournament, but it’s the best title of my career,” he added. "I came here for a medal, it's been tough but I've got it! For my girlfriend, my mother, Gijón, Spain," he concluded.

Tokyo Olympics: ‘It is a bronze medal, but it feels like gold,' says Pablo Carreno Busta

World number one has clarified that he is remarkably inspired to fill the hole of an Olympic gold medal on his broad vocation continue.&nbsp;

Presently, with his third-round win over Spain's Davidovich Fokina, Djokovic is only one game away from Roger Federer's record of most men's singles wins at the Olympics.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-andy-murray-casts-doubt-on-olympic-future-after-doubles-exit-401118" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020: Andy Murray casts doubt on Olympic future after doubles exit</a>

By winning three matches in Tokyo this year, Novak Djokovic has likewise equalled Andy Murray's count of 12 match wins at the Olympics. Andy Murray won six matches each at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics and stays the solitary male in tennis history to win two sequential gold medals in singles.&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic has partaken in the Olympics four times in his profession up until now. The Serbian, nonetheless, has not delighted in much accomplishment at the quadrennial occasion. Djokovic's best outcome at the Olympics came in Beijing in 2008, when he won the bronze medal.&nbsp;

Roger Federer has likewise participated in four releases of the Olympics, with his best outcome being a silver medal in men's singles at the 2012 London Games.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-daniil-medvedev-fumes-at-journalist-asks-for-him-to-be-removed-over-cheater-question-401200" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: Daniil Medvedev fumes at journalist asks for him to be removed over 'cheater' question</a>

Novak Djokovic will confront home most loved Kei Nishikori in the quarterfinals on Thursday. The Serb has a 16-2 lead in the straight-on against the Japanese and is the staggering top choice to advance to the elimination rounds.&nbsp;

The 20-time Major victor could confront Germany's Alexander Zverev or Frances' Jeremy Chardy in the elimination rounds before a possible meeting with second seed Daniil Medvedev in the final.

World number one has clarified that he is remarkably inspired to fill the hole of an Olympic gold medal on his broad vocation continue. Presently, with his third-round win over Spain's Davidovich Fokina, Djokovic is only one game away from Roger Federer's record of most men's singles wins at the Olympics.

World number one has clarified that he is remarkably inspired to fill the hole of an Olympic gold medal on his broad vocation continue. Presently, with his third-round win over Spain's Davidovich Fokina, Djokovic is only one game away from Roger Federer's record of most men's singles wins at the Olympics. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020: Andy Murray casts doubt on Olympic future after doubles exit By winning three matches in Tokyo this year, Novak Djokovic has likewise equalled Andy Murray's count of 12 match wins at the Olympics. Andy Murray won six matches each at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics and stays the solitary male in tennis history to win two sequential gold medals in singles. Novak Djokovic has partaken in the Olympics four times in his profession up until now. The Serbian, nonetheless, has not delighted in much accomplishment at the quadrennial occasion. Djokovic's best outcome at the Olympics came in Beijing in 2008, when he won the bronze medal. Roger Federer has likewise participated in four releases of the Olympics, with his best outcome being a silver medal in men's singles at the 2012 London Games. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Daniil Medvedev fumes at journalist asks for him to be removed over 'cheater' question Novak Djokovic will confront home most loved Kei Nishikori in the quarterfinals on Thursday. The Serb has a 16-2 lead in the straight-on against the Japanese and is the staggering top choice to advance to the elimination rounds. The 20-time Major victor could confront Germany's Alexander Zverev or Frances' Jeremy Chardy in the elimination rounds before a possible meeting with second seed Daniil Medvedev in the final.

Tokyo 2020: Novak Djokovic just one step away from equalling Roger Federer's Olympic record

On Wednesday, a break between the second and final set worked wonders for Daniil Medvedev during his third-round men's singles match at the Tokyo&nbsp;Olympics.

On Thursday, it didn't. The world number two lost 6-2 7-6(5) to Spain's Pablo Carreno Busta in the quarter-final, despite leaving the court for another lengthy break to change clothes after losing the opening set.

"I changed everything I had (clothes)," Medvedev said afterwards. "I wanted to change my skin because I was sweating like I never did before. It was terrible."

Playing under a blazing sun in humid conditions against Fabio Fognini in Wednesday's first match on Center Court, Medvedev struggled to breathe and said he was on the verge of collapsing.

On Thursday, the matches started from 3 pm after organizers accepted the players' plea to delay the start from the regular 11 am due to the stifling conditions.

The Russian thanked world number one Novak Djokovic for pushing the players' case with the governing body International Tennis Federation.

"Novak is the man, thanks to him. I didn't enjoy the conditions still, but it was much better than playing at 11," Medvedev said with a smile.

Medvedev had a chance to set up an all-Russian semi-final in the men's singles in Tokyo after his compatriot Karen Khachanov progressed to the last four stage earlier on Thursday.

But he said he was not even frustrated after his defeat to Carreno Busta.

"I was just surprised at his level," Medvedev said. "Because today he could win Masters easily and yet he's never been in any final of those. A Grand Slam is different, but with the level here today he can go in the final of the Grand Slam. Easy.

"And about me, I am always trying to do my best. I couldn't play better than what I did today. I could serve better, but then I was wet like hell. I couldn't toss the ball well, once I tossed the ball and got water in my eyes.

"It was not easy to play and I'm really disappointed with myself and for my country to lose in the quarters."

On Wednesday, a break between the second and final set worked wonders for Daniil Medvedev during his third-round men's singles match at the Tokyo Olympics. On Thursday, it didn't.

On Wednesday, a break between the second and final set worked wonders for Daniil Medvedev during his third-round men's singles match at the Tokyo Olympics. On Thursday, it didn't. The world number two lost 6-2 7-6(5) to Spain's Pablo Carreno Busta in the quarter-final, despite leaving the court for another lengthy break to change clothes after losing the opening set. "I changed everything I had (clothes)," Medvedev said afterwards. "I wanted to change my skin because I was sweating like I never did before. It was terrible." Playing under a blazing sun in humid conditions against Fabio Fognini in Wednesday's first match on Center Court, Medvedev struggled to breathe and said he was on the verge of collapsing. On Thursday, the matches started from 3 pm after organizers accepted the players' plea to delay the start from the regular 11 am due to the stifling conditions. The Russian thanked world number one Novak Djokovic for pushing the players' case with the governing body International Tennis Federation. "Novak is the man, thanks to him. I didn't enjoy the conditions still, but it was much better than playing at 11," Medvedev said with a smile. Medvedev had a chance to set up an all-Russian semi-final in the men's singles in Tokyo after his compatriot Karen Khachanov progressed to the last four stage earlier on Thursday. But he said he was not even frustrated after his defeat to Carreno Busta. "I was just surprised at his level," Medvedev said. "Because today he could win Masters easily and yet he's never been in any final of those. A Grand Slam is different, but with the level here today he can go in the final of the Grand Slam. Easy. "And about me, I am always trying to do my best. I couldn't play better than what I did today. I could serve better, but then I was wet like hell. I couldn't toss the ball well, once I tossed the ball and got water in my eyes. "It was not easy to play and I'm really disappointed with myself and for my country to lose in the quarters."

Tokyo Olympics: 'Wanted to change my skin' during break, says Daniil Medvedev

Novak Djokovic said he is "getting better and better" after easing into the Tokyo Olympics men's tennis semi-finals on Thursday with a straight-set thrashing of Japanese hope Kei Nishikori.

The world number one, chasing a calendar Golden Grand Slam, ended home interest in the tennis with a ruthless 6-2, 6-0 victory in only 70 minutes.

Djokovic has never won the Olympic singles title, with a bronze medal in 2008 his best result at the Games, but will face either Alexander Zverev or Jeremy Chardy in the last four.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-novak-djokovic-just-one-step-away-from-equalling-roger-federers-olympic-record-401356" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020: Novak Djokovic just one step away from equalling Roger Federer's Olympic record</a>

"I'm very happy, my best performance in the tournament," said the top seed.

"Matches are not getting easier, but my level of tennis is getting better and better.

"I've done that many, many times in my career. I know that I'm (the) kind of player that the further the tournament goes, the better I'm feeling on the court."

The 34-year-old Serb, who has already captured the Australian Open, French Open, and Wimbledon titles this season, was never in trouble against Nishikori, who made 16 unforced errors.

The former world number four did save two match points in the final game, but Djokovic made no mistake on the next opportunity.

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<h2>&nbsp;</h2>

The quarter-final was played in cooler conditions than earlier in the tournament after Djokovic lobbied organizers to change the schedule, moving the day's start time from 11:00 am local time (0200 GMT) to 3:00 pm.

It was also the second match on the center court at the Ariake Tennis Park after the women's semi-final between Belinda Bencic and Elena Rybakina lasted almost three hours in the still suffocating heat.

"It was fantastic. Playing after&nbsp;five (pm)&nbsp;is completely different," said Djokovic.

"Obviously, there is&nbsp;a little bit of a breeze, but still very, very humid, you sweat a lot, but you don't have the heat, you don't have the sun that, in combination with the humidity,&nbsp;is just brutal."

Novak Djokovic said he is "getting better and better" after easing into the Tokyo Olympics men's tennis semi-finals on Thursday with a straight-set thrashing of Japanese hope Kei Nishikori.

Novak Djokovic said he is "getting better and better" after easing into the Tokyo Olympics men's tennis semi-finals on Thursday with a straight-set thrashing of Japanese hope Kei Nishikori. The world number one, chasing a calendar Golden Grand Slam, ended home interest in the tennis with a ruthless 6-2, 6-0 victory in only 70 minutes. Djokovic has never won the Olympic singles title, with a bronze medal in 2008 his best result at the Games, but will face either Alexander Zverev or Jeremy Chardy in the last four. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020: Novak Djokovic just one step away from equalling Roger Federer's Olympic record "I'm very happy, my best performance in the tournament," said the top seed. "Matches are not getting easier, but my level of tennis is getting better and better. "I've done that many, many times in my career. I know that I'm (the) kind of player that the further the tournament goes, the better I'm feeling on the court." The 34-year-old Serb, who has already captured the Australian Open, French Open, and Wimbledon titles this season, was never in trouble against Nishikori, who made 16 unforced errors. The former world number four did save two match points in the final game, but Djokovic made no mistake on the next opportunity. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: American star pole-vaulter Sam Kendricks tests positive for COVID-19 The quarter-final was played in cooler conditions than earlier in the tournament after Djokovic lobbied organizers to change the schedule, moving the day's start time from 11:00 am local time (0200 GMT) to 3:00 pm. It was also the second match on the center court at the Ariake Tennis Park after the women's semi-final between Belinda Bencic and Elena Rybakina lasted almost three hours in the still suffocating heat. "It was fantastic. Playing after five (pm) is completely different," said Djokovic. "Obviously, there is a little bit of a breeze, but still very, very humid, you sweat a lot, but you don't have the heat, you don't have the sun that, in combination with the humidity, is just brutal."

Tokyo 2020: Novak Djokovic says he's 'getting better' after cruising into Olympic semis

Daniil Medvedev lost his cool after a journalist asked him a question on Russian athletes carrying a 'stigma of cheaters' coming into the Olympic Games.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics-if-i-die-will-the-itf-take-responsibility-daniil-medvedev-fumes-over-tokyo-heat-401147" hreflang="en">Olympics- 'If I die will the ITF take responsibility?': Daniil Medvedev fumes over Tokyo heat</a>

The reporter, whose first language was not English, asked him: "Are the Russian Olympic team athletes carrying a stigma of cheaters in these Games after the scandal and how do you feel about it?"

The question ticked off the world number 2 and he lost his cool.&nbsp;"That’s the first time in my life I’m not gonna answer a question, man. And you should be embarrassed of yourself," he said.&nbsp;

The Russian tennis star urged the press officer beside him to remove him from either the Games or the tennis competition. "I think you should [remove] him from either the Olympic Games, either the tennis tournament. I don’t wanna see him again in my interviews. Thanks," he fumed.

IN PICS|&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sports/condoms-and-sex-at-tokyo-olympics-awareness-creation-restrictions-and-pushback-400698">Condoms and sex at Olympics: Awareness creation, restrictions and pushback</a>

Medvedev walked away by saying that it was the first such incident in his life.&nbsp;

Earlier, Medvedev was visibly upset due to the scorching conditions for tennis in Tokyo Olympics 2020. He went up to the umpire and told him that he could finish his match but wanted to know who will take responsibility if he died.

"I'm fine. I can finish the match but I can die. If I die will the ITF (governing body International Tennis Federation) take responsibility?" Medvedev said in reply.

The ITF's 'extreme weather policy' allows a 10-minute break between the second and third set if agreed by both players and Medvedev used that time to get a freezing cold shower.

"Even from the first set I didn't feel good enough with my breathing. That's why I called the physio, I felt like my diaphragm was blocked," he said, adding that he felt it was the most humid day so far in Tokyo.

"And then on the second set, I just had darkness in my eyes, like between every point, I didn't know what to do to feel better. Like I was bending over and I couldn't get my breath together so I was ready to just fall down on the court."

Daniil Medvedev lost his cool after a journalist asked him a question on Russian athletes carrying a 'stigma of cheaters' coming into the Olympic Games. ALSO READ: Olympics- 'If I die will the ITF take responsibility?

Daniil Medvedev lost his cool after a journalist asked him a question on Russian athletes carrying a 'stigma of cheaters' coming into the Olympic Games. ALSO READ: Olympics- 'If I die will the ITF take responsibility?': Daniil Medvedev fumes over Tokyo heat The reporter, whose first language was not English, asked him: "Are the Russian Olympic team athletes carrying a stigma of cheaters in these Games after the scandal and how do you feel about it?" The question ticked off the world number 2 and he lost his cool. "That’s the first time in my life I’m not gonna answer a question, man. And you should be embarrassed of yourself," he said. The Russian tennis star urged the press officer beside him to remove him from either the Games or the tennis competition. "I think you should [remove] him from either the Olympic Games, either the tennis tournament. I don’t wanna see him again in my interviews. Thanks," he fumed. IN PICS| Condoms and sex at Olympics: Awareness creation, restrictions and pushback Medvedev walked away by saying that it was the first such incident in his life. Earlier, Medvedev was visibly upset due to the scorching conditions for tennis in Tokyo Olympics 2020. He went up to the umpire and told him that he could finish his match but wanted to know who will take responsibility if he died. "I'm fine. I can finish the match but I can die. If I die will the ITF (governing body International Tennis Federation) take responsibility?" Medvedev said in reply. The ITF's 'extreme weather policy' allows a 10-minute break between the second and third set if agreed by both players and Medvedev used that time to get a freezing cold shower. "Even from the first set I didn't feel good enough with my breathing. That's why I called the physio, I felt like my diaphragm was blocked," he said, adding that he felt it was the most humid day so far in Tokyo. "And then on the second set, I just had darkness in my eyes, like between every point, I didn't know what to do to feel better. Like I was bending over and I couldn't get my breath together so I was ready to just fall down on the court."

Tokyo Olympics: Daniil Medvedev fumes at journalist, asks for him to be removed over 'cheater' question

Andy Murray said he was unsure if he would play at another Olympics after his bid for a third gold medal ended with a quarter-final defeat in the men's doubles on Wednesday.

Murray, a two-time Olympic singles champion, and partner Joe Salisbury lost 4-6, 7-6 (7/2), 10-7 to Croatia's Marin Cilic and Ivan Dodig.

The British pair led Cilic and Dodig by a set and a break but suffered a late collapse as the Croatians prevailed in a deciding tie-break.

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"I don't know. I don't know if I'll get the opportunity to play again," said Murray, asked if he would appear at a fifth Olympics in Paris in 2024.

"I love every minute of playing the Olympics. I wish that today would have gone differently. I had another chance with Joe to win a medal. We were so close and that is just disappointing.&nbsp;

"There was some stuff I wish I could have done at the end of the match to try and help out more. But yeah, very disappointing."

Murray pulled out of the singles in Tokyo due to a muscle strain. The three-time Grand Slam winner won gold in the event at London 2012 and Rio 2016.

"I don't regret that decision," he said.

"I think we put ourselves in a really good position to win and do well here. This is the one -- it hurts a lot losing that one because you get through it and you get two matches for a medal. We were just so close.

Murray was bidding for a fourth Olympic medal, having also won silver in mixed doubles alongside Laura Robson in 2012.

"I hate losing. I wanted to try and win a medal with Joe," he said.

"It is difficult to take, it is disappointing. You have regrets and think about points and stuff, things you should have done differently. I have always loved team sports. I love being a part of the Olympics."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-russia-olympic-committee-wins-womens-team-gold-in-artistic-gymnastics-400986" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: Russia Olympic Committee wins women's team gold in artistic Gymnastics</a>

Murray hopes to compete at next month's US Open, where he won the title in 2012.

"I will see how the injury heals," he said. "That will dictate it. I am not going to rush something. If it is not there then I should be OK to play."

Cilic and Dodig will play New Zealand's Michael Venus and Marcus Daniell in the semi-finals in Tokyo. Venus and Daniell took out Colombian third seeds Juan-Sebastian Cabal and Robert Farah in the last eight.

Andy Murray said he was unsure if he would play at another Olympics after his bid for a third gold medal ended with a quarter-final defeat in the men's doubles on Wednesday.

Andy Murray said he was unsure if he would play at another Olympics after his bid for a third gold medal ended with a quarter-final defeat in the men's doubles on Wednesday. Murray, a two-time Olympic singles champion, and partner Joe Salisbury lost 4-6, 7-6 (7/2), 10-7 to Croatia's Marin Cilic and Ivan Dodig. The British pair led Cilic and Dodig by a set and a break but suffered a late collapse as the Croatians prevailed in a deciding tie-break. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics 2020: PV Sindhu books a knockout berth after beating Cheung Ngan Yi "I don't know. I don't know if I'll get the opportunity to play again," said Murray, asked if he would appear at a fifth Olympics in Paris in 2024. "I love every minute of playing the Olympics. I wish that today would have gone differently. I had another chance with Joe to win a medal. We were so close and that is just disappointing. "There was some stuff I wish I could have done at the end of the match to try and help out more. But yeah, very disappointing." Murray pulled out of the singles in Tokyo due to a muscle strain. The three-time Grand Slam winner won gold in the event at London 2012 and Rio 2016. "I don't regret that decision," he said. "I think we put ourselves in a really good position to win and do well here. This is the one -- it hurts a lot losing that one because you get through it and you get two matches for a medal. We were just so close. Murray was bidding for a fourth Olympic medal, having also won silver in mixed doubles alongside Laura Robson in 2012. "I hate losing. I wanted to try and win a medal with Joe," he said. "It is difficult to take, it is disappointing. You have regrets and think about points and stuff, things you should have done differently. I have always loved team sports. I love being a part of the Olympics." ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Russia Olympic Committee wins women's team gold in artistic Gymnastics Murray hopes to compete at next month's US Open, where he won the title in 2012. "I will see how the injury heals," he said. "That will dictate it. I am not going to rush something. If it is not there then I should be OK to play." Cilic and Dodig will play New Zealand's Michael Venus and Marcus Daniell in the semi-finals in Tokyo. Venus and Daniell took out Colombian third seeds Juan-Sebastian Cabal and Robert Farah in the last eight.

Tokyo 2020: Andy Murray casts doubt on Olympic future after doubles exit

Novak Djokovic shot&nbsp;past Jan-Lennard Struff to advance to the third round of the Tokyo Olympics&nbsp;where he will confront Spain's&nbsp;Alejandro Davidovich Fokina.&nbsp;

The Serbian, who has been in scorching form in the entire season&nbsp;is the staggering top pick to bring home the gold medal in Tokyo. Although, his rivals Stefanos Tsitsipas, Daniil Medvedev, and Alexander Zverev have likewise played some fine tennis and are all into the third round.&nbsp;

Addressing the media after his victory over Jan-Lennard Struff, Novak&nbsp;Djokovic said he is totally focused on Wednesday's match with Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, and that he isn't focusing on the thing his adversaries are doing.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-my-attitude-wasnt-great-says-japans-tennis-star-naomi-osaka-after-shock-exit-400938" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: 'My attitude wasn't great', says Japan's tennis star Naomi Osaka after shock exit</a>

“Fokina is the only one now on my mind, the priority is the next match, I can’t look at what Medvedev, Tsitsipas, or Zverev are doing, my biggest rival is here,” he said.

Novak Djokovic and Davidovich Fokina have met before as well and are familiar with one another's game. They have trained together in Spain.

The world no.1, who won his last match in straight sets, said he would need to be careful about the danger his opposition will present in Tokyo.&nbsp;

“We know each other well, we often train together when I’m in Spain,” Djokovic added. “He is a ‘clay specialist’ but he also plays well here."

Djokovic has won the Belgrade Open, Roland Garros, Wimbledon, and two matches in Tokyo.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-indian-boxer-lovlina-borgohain-moves-into-quarterfinals-with-a-win-over-german-pugilist-400914" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020: Indian boxer Lovlina Borgohain moves into quarterfinals with a win over German pugilist</a>

The world No. 1 said he was especially satisfied with his display against Jan-Lennard Struff. He&nbsp;said that breaking his opponent's&nbsp;serve late in the initial set steered the results on his way.&nbsp;

“The crucial moment of the match was my break in the 10th game of the first set. I took the lead and after that, it was easier for me in the second,” he said. 
&nbsp; 
“I am satisfied with how I played, it was better than in the first round, especially from the baseline," he added.

Novak Djokovic shot past Jan-Lennard Struff to advance to the third round of the Tokyo Olympics where he will confront Spain's Alejandro Davidovich Fokina. The Serbian, who has been in scorching form in the entire season is the staggering top pick to bring home the gold medal in Tokyo.

Novak Djokovic shot past Jan-Lennard Struff to advance to the third round of the Tokyo Olympics where he will confront Spain's Alejandro Davidovich Fokina. The Serbian, who has been in scorching form in the entire season is the staggering top pick to bring home the gold medal in Tokyo. Although, his rivals Stefanos Tsitsipas, Daniil Medvedev, and Alexander Zverev have likewise played some fine tennis and are all into the third round. Addressing the media after his victory over Jan-Lennard Struff, Novak Djokovic said he is totally focused on Wednesday's match with Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, and that he isn't focusing on the thing his adversaries are doing. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: 'My attitude wasn't great', says Japan's tennis star Naomi Osaka after shock exit “Fokina is the only one now on my mind, the priority is the next match, I can’t look at what Medvedev, Tsitsipas, or Zverev are doing, my biggest rival is here,” he said. Novak Djokovic and Davidovich Fokina have met before as well and are familiar with one another's game. They have trained together in Spain. The world no.1, who won his last match in straight sets, said he would need to be careful about the danger his opposition will present in Tokyo. “We know each other well, we often train together when I’m in Spain,” Djokovic added. “He is a ‘clay specialist’ but he also plays well here." Djokovic has won the Belgrade Open, Roland Garros, Wimbledon, and two matches in Tokyo. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020: Indian boxer Lovlina Borgohain moves into quarterfinals with a win over German pugilist The world No. 1 said he was especially satisfied with his display against Jan-Lennard Struff. He said that breaking his opponent's serve late in the initial set steered the results on his way. “The crucial moment of the match was my break in the 10th game of the first set. I took the lead and after that, it was easier for me in the second,” he said. “I am satisfied with how I played, it was better than in the first round, especially from the baseline," he added.

Tokyo Olympics: ‘Focused on next rival, not Medvedev, Tsitsipas or Zverev', says Novak Djokovic

Japanese tennis star Naomi Osaka's dreams of home Olympic gold were crushed by a 6-1, 6-4 defeat to Marketa Vondrousova Tuesday as her return to action came to an abrupt end.

Osaka, who lit the Olympic cauldron and was one of the faces of the Games, struggled in an error-strewn display that blew the draw wide open after the earlier exits of world number one Ashleigh Barty and third seed Aryna Sabalenka.

"How disappointed am I? I mean, I'm disappointed in every loss, but&nbsp;I feel like this one s**ks more than the others," said the four-time Grand Slam winner.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-japans-tennis-star-naomi-osaka-knocked-out-of-third-round-400902" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: Japan's tennis star Naomi Osaka knocked out of third round</a>

Asked what went wrong, she replied: "Everything if you watch the match then you would probably see. I feel like there's a lot of things that I counted on that I couldn't rely on today."

The third-round defeat follows a turbulent few months for Osaka, who abandoned her French Open campaign in May after refusing to attend press conferences, citing the need to preserve her mental health.

Osaka also skipped Wimbledon, saying she had been battling depression and anxiety, before returning to Tokyo for her first Olympics, including her starring role at the opening ceremony.

"I definitely feel like there was a lot of pressure for this. I think it's maybe because I haven't played in the&nbsp;Olympics before and for the first year&nbsp;was a bit much," said Osaka.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-swimming-australias-mckeown-wins-100m-backstroke-gold-in-debut-olympics-400882" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020: Swimming-Australia's McKeown wins 100m backstroke gold in debut Olympics</a>

After looking assured in the first two rounds after her eight-week hiatus, Osaka made a dreadful start under the centre court roof at a rain-hit Ariake Tennis Park and never recovered.

"I've taken long breaks before and I've managed to do well.&nbsp;I'm not saying that I did bad right now, but I do know that my expectations were a lot higher," she said.

"I feel like my attitude wasn't that great because I don't really know how to cope with that pressure so that's the best that I could have done in this situation.

Japanese tennis star Naomi Osaka's dreams of home Olympic gold were crushed by a 6-1, 6-4 defeat to Marketa Vondrousova Tuesday as her return to action came to an abrupt end.

Japanese tennis star Naomi Osaka's dreams of home Olympic gold were crushed by a 6-1, 6-4 defeat to Marketa Vondrousova Tuesday as her return to action came to an abrupt end. Osaka, who lit the Olympic cauldron and was one of the faces of the Games, struggled in an error-strewn display that blew the draw wide open after the earlier exits of world number one Ashleigh Barty and third seed Aryna Sabalenka. "How disappointed am I? I mean, I'm disappointed in every loss, but I feel like this one s**ks more than the others," said the four-time Grand Slam winner. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Japan's tennis star Naomi Osaka knocked out of third round Asked what went wrong, she replied: "Everything if you watch the match then you would probably see. I feel like there's a lot of things that I counted on that I couldn't rely on today." The third-round defeat follows a turbulent few months for Osaka, who abandoned her French Open campaign in May after refusing to attend press conferences, citing the need to preserve her mental health. Osaka also skipped Wimbledon, saying she had been battling depression and anxiety, before returning to Tokyo for her first Olympics, including her starring role at the opening ceremony. "I definitely feel like there was a lot of pressure for this. I think it's maybe because I haven't played in the Olympics before and for the first year was a bit much," said Osaka. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020: Swimming-Australia's McKeown wins 100m backstroke gold in debut Olympics After looking assured in the first two rounds after her eight-week hiatus, Osaka made a dreadful start under the centre court roof at a rain-hit Ariake Tennis Park and never recovered. "I've taken long breaks before and I've managed to do well. I'm not saying that I did bad right now, but I do know that my expectations were a lot higher," she said. "I feel like my attitude wasn't that great because I don't really know how to cope with that pressure so that's the best that I could have done in this situation.

Tokyo Olympics: 'My attitude wasn't great', says Japan's tennis star Naomi Osaka after shock exit

The Table Tennis Federation of India Secretary General Arun Kumar Banerjee has made it clear that Manika Batra's refusal to have national coach Soumyadeep Roy by her side during matches at the Tokyo Olympics will be taken up for discussion once the contingent returns to India.

Banerjee said the executive committee will decide on the course of action that needs to be taken since it was unprofessional from Manika to call Soumyadeep the personal coach of Sutirtha Mukherjee.

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"Personal coach is a wrong statement.&nbsp;Sutirtha &nbsp;plays in&nbsp;Soumyadeep's&nbsp;academy, but he is the national coach. To say her coach was not allowed with her is wrong on Manika's part. She knew before leaving from India what is the access of the coaches. All the players and coaches know the extent of access each has.

Manika had applied for personal coach, we had recommended as well. When you know his access, to come to Tokyo and demand that her coach be there in place of Soumyadeep is wrong. To call him the personal coach of Sutirtha is wrong as he had taken national camp even before coming to Tokyo. The criteria is fixed and I asked Soumyadeep to speak to manager MP Singh and report it as he is there. I strongly oppose this," he told ANI.

Asked if this was unwanted from Manika, he said: "What is on her mind I can't say. Surprised she brought this up here after knowing the criteria. I will discuss this with the executive committee and decide what action needs to be taken. We have to bring this up when we are back."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-heartbreak-for-satwik-and-chirag-as-they-crash-out-despite-winning-the-last-group-match-400911" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: Heartbreak for Satwik and Chirag as they crash out despite winning the last group match</a>

Manika had earlier requested India's chef-de-mission BP Baishya to allow the field of play (FOP) access for her personal coach Sanmay Paranjape.

But MP Singh said FOP access for Manika's personal coach wasn't granted and the federation has to see what do when these type of situations arises next time. "We are not against players but she should tell this to the government. Last-minute her personal coach got approval to travel to Tokyo but FOP access was not granted to him," said MP Singh. "I think keeping this incident in mind we will have to make a rule that if this happens next time who will take a call," he added.

The Table Tennis Federation of India Secretary General Arun Kumar Banerjee has made it clear that Manika Batra's refusal to have national coach Soumyadeep Roy by her side during matches at the Tokyo Olympics will be taken up for discussion once the contingent returns to India.

The Table Tennis Federation of India Secretary General Arun Kumar Banerjee has made it clear that Manika Batra's refusal to have national coach Soumyadeep Roy by her side during matches at the Tokyo Olympics will be taken up for discussion once the contingent returns to India. Banerjee said the executive committee will decide on the course of action that needs to be taken since it was unprofessional from Manika to call Soumyadeep the personal coach of Sutirtha Mukherjee. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Sharath Kamal's run comes to an end after losing to Ma Long "Personal coach is a wrong statement. Sutirtha plays in Soumyadeep's academy, but he is the national coach. To say her coach was not allowed with her is wrong on Manika's part. She knew before leaving from India what is the access of the coaches. All the players and coaches know the extent of access each has. Manika had applied for personal coach, we had recommended as well. When you know his access, to come to Tokyo and demand that her coach be there in place of Soumyadeep is wrong. To call him the personal coach of Sutirtha is wrong as he had taken national camp even before coming to Tokyo. The criteria is fixed and I asked Soumyadeep to speak to manager MP Singh and report it as he is there. I strongly oppose this," he told ANI. Asked if this was unwanted from Manika, he said: "What is on her mind I can't say. Surprised she brought this up here after knowing the criteria. I will discuss this with the executive committee and decide what action needs to be taken. We have to bring this up when we are back." ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Heartbreak for Satwik and Chirag as they crash out despite winning the last group match Manika had earlier requested India's chef-de-mission BP Baishya to allow the field of play (FOP) access for her personal coach Sanmay Paranjape. But MP Singh said FOP access for Manika's personal coach wasn't granted and the federation has to see what do when these type of situations arises next time. "We are not against players but she should tell this to the government. Last-minute her personal coach got approval to travel to Tokyo but FOP access was not granted to him," said MP Singh. "I think keeping this incident in mind we will have to make a rule that if this happens next time who will take a call," he added.

Tokyo Olympics: TTFI executive committee to decide on action against Manika Batra for refusing guidance from national coach

World no.1 Novak Djokovic remained steady on his quest to become the first male player to complete the Golden Slam.

The Serbian, who is attempting to become the first man to win all four Grand Slam titles and Olympic gold in the same calendar year, had a 6-4 6-3 win over Jan-Lennard Struff of Germany in the men's singles.

The players were evenly matched at the start of the first set but the 20-time Grand Slam champion proved too strong, pouncing on Struff's serve while leading 5-3 to take the first set. An early break in the second secured the victory.

"It was a tough opponent for a second round... but you know, I'm very pleased with the way I felt on the court," Djokovic told reporters.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-sumit-nagal-loses-to-daniil-medvedev-in-second-round-400713" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: Sumit Nagal loses to Daniil Medvedev in second round</a>

Struff's compatriot and fourth seed Alexander Zverev brushed aside Daniel Elahi Galan of Colombia 6-2 6-2, while world number two Daniil Medvedev breezed through with a comfortable 6-2 6-1 win over India's Sumit Nagal.

The tennis tournament reported its first COVID-19 case among players on Monday after men's doubles competitor Jean-Julien Rojer of the Netherlands tested positive.

Rojer is the sixth member of the Dutch Olympic delegation to test positive after infections reported by a skateboarder, a taekwondo fighter and three members of the rowing team, including staff.

Rojer and his partner Wesley Koolhof were placed in isolation, while their second-round opponents from New Zealand received a walkover into the quarter-finals, the International Tennis Federation (ITF) said in a statement.

World no.1 Novak Djokovic remained steady on his quest to become the first male player to complete the Golden Slam. The Serbian, who is attempting to become the first man to win all four Grand Slam titles and Olympic gold in the same calendar year, had a 6-4 6-3 win over Jan-Lennard Struff of Germany in the men's singles.

World no.1 Novak Djokovic remained steady on his quest to become the first male player to complete the Golden Slam. The Serbian, who is attempting to become the first man to win all four Grand Slam titles and Olympic gold in the same calendar year, had a 6-4 6-3 win over Jan-Lennard Struff of Germany in the men's singles. The players were evenly matched at the start of the first set but the 20-time Grand Slam champion proved too strong, pouncing on Struff's serve while leading 5-3 to take the first set. An early break in the second secured the victory. "It was a tough opponent for a second round... but you know, I'm very pleased with the way I felt on the court," Djokovic told reporters. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Sumit Nagal loses to Daniil Medvedev in second round Struff's compatriot and fourth seed Alexander Zverev brushed aside Daniel Elahi Galan of Colombia 6-2 6-2, while world number two Daniil Medvedev breezed through with a comfortable 6-2 6-1 win over India's Sumit Nagal. The tennis tournament reported its first COVID-19 case among players on Monday after men's doubles competitor Jean-Julien Rojer of the Netherlands tested positive. Rojer is the sixth member of the Dutch Olympic delegation to test positive after infections reported by a skateboarder, a taekwondo fighter and three members of the rowing team, including staff. Rojer and his partner Wesley Koolhof were placed in isolation, while their second-round opponents from New Zealand received a walkover into the quarter-finals, the International Tennis Federation (ITF) said in a statement.

Tokyo Olympics: World no.1 Novak Djokovic remains on track for gold medal

The first-round ties for Tokyo Olympics were revealed exactly 48 hours before players will take the court at Ariake Tennis Park, which starts on Saturday.&nbsp;

Top-seeded Novak Djokovic will open against No.139 Hugo Dellien of Bolivia. The World No.1 is endeavoring to become the first man to finish a Golden Slam by winning every one of the four significant tennis competitions and an Olympic singles gold medal in the same year.&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic won Wimbledon and won his 20th Grand Slam title, subsequent to opening the year by winning the Australian Open and French Open.&nbsp;

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Top-seeded Ashleigh Barty, the newly delegated Wimbledon women's champion will make her Olympic debut for Australia against Sara Sorribes Tormo of Spain. She will additionally be playing doubles with Storm Sanders.&nbsp;

Naomi Osaka's first match in almost two months will come against 52nd-positioned Zheng Saisai of China in the opening round of the Olympic tennis competition.&nbsp;

The second-seeded Osaka, who represents Japan and is one of the top names at the Games, is getting back to rivalry after she walked out of the French Open after being fined and threatened with disqualification for refusing to attend mandatory post-match press conferences over mental health issues.

Defending champion Olympic hero Andy Murray got an extreme opener against fifteenth-positioned Felix Auger Aliassime of Canada, who is seeded 10th.&nbsp;

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The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> tennis draws in full 👇
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Second-seeded Daniil Medvedev opens against Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan and third-seeded Stefanos Tsitsipas meets Philipp Kohlschreiber of Germany.&nbsp;

Also, the two singles draws have created a line of captivating first-round matches, including a mouth-watering opener between defending bronze medallist Kei Nishikori and Andrey Rublev, Carla Suarez Navarro's starting against Tunisia's Ons Jabeur, and Wimbledon finalist Hubert Hurkacz taking on Hungary's Marton Fucsovics to name a few.

The first-round ties for Tokyo Olympics were revealed exactly 48 hours before players will take the court at Ariake Tennis Park, which starts on Saturday. Top-seeded Novak Djokovic will open against No.

The first-round ties for Tokyo Olympics were revealed exactly 48 hours before players will take the court at Ariake Tennis Park, which starts on Saturday. Top-seeded Novak Djokovic will open against No.139 Hugo Dellien of Bolivia. The World No.1 is endeavoring to become the first man to finish a Golden Slam by winning every one of the four significant tennis competitions and an Olympic singles gold medal in the same year. Novak Djokovic won Wimbledon and won his 20th Grand Slam title, subsequent to opening the year by winning the Australian Open and French Open. ALSO READ: Director of Tokyo Olympics opening ceremony ousted over past comments on Holocaust Top-seeded Ashleigh Barty, the newly delegated Wimbledon women's champion will make her Olympic debut for Australia against Sara Sorribes Tormo of Spain. She will additionally be playing doubles with Storm Sanders. Naomi Osaka's first match in almost two months will come against 52nd-positioned Zheng Saisai of China in the opening round of the Olympic tennis competition. The second-seeded Osaka, who represents Japan and is one of the top names at the Games, is getting back to rivalry after she walked out of the French Open after being fined and threatened with disqualification for refusing to attend mandatory post-match press conferences over mental health issues. Defending champion Olympic hero Andy Murray got an extreme opener against fifteenth-positioned Felix Auger Aliassime of Canada, who is seeded 10th. We're set. The #Tokyo2020 tennis draws in full 👇 — ITF (@ITFTennis) July 22, 2021 × Second-seeded Daniil Medvedev opens against Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan and third-seeded Stefanos Tsitsipas meets Philipp Kohlschreiber of Germany. Also, the two singles draws have created a line of captivating first-round matches, including a mouth-watering opener between defending bronze medallist Kei Nishikori and Andrey Rublev, Carla Suarez Navarro's starting against Tunisia's Ons Jabeur, and Wimbledon finalist Hubert Hurkacz taking on Hungary's Marton Fucsovics to name a few.

All you need to know about Tokyo Olympics tennis draws. Novak Djokovic to start against Hugo Dellien

World number five Alexander Zverev will make his debut in the deferred 2020 Games – with the tennis event set to start on July 24. Zverev will be seeded fourth in the men's singles draw behind Novak Djokovic, Daniil Medvedev, and Stefanos Tsitsipas.&nbsp;

Addressing a German magazine,&nbsp;Zverev said he has loved playing under the German flag and that he would gun for glory in Tokyo. He trusts he is one of the top picks to win the gold medal in the men's singles event.&nbsp;

"I have already said several times that I am going to Tokyo in order to get a medal for Germany. It does not mean at all that I am going to win, but it is true that I see myself as the one of the favorites for the gold medal," said Zverev.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="Tokyo Olympics 2020: Two Olympic athletes test positive for COVID-19, say organisers">Tokyo Olympics 2020: Two Olympic athletes test positive for COVID-19, say organisers</a>

He said the support he will receive from fans back in Germany will make playing at the Olympics a special memory.&nbsp;

"I love Germany. I always very, very much like to play for my country. It’s even more emotional when you know that everyone is cheering at home," he added.&nbsp;

The 24-year-old sees himself 'as someone who always has a chance against the World No.1 ahead of the Tokyo Olympics.&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic is a top choice to win the Olympic gold medal, having won the Australian Open, French Open, and Wimbledon titles this year. But, according to Zverev, playing aggressive tennis will be the way to beat the favourite at the Olympics.&nbsp;

"To defeat a player like Djokovic you have to do things that very few players can do. You have to outrun Nole and dominate him. I see myself as someone who may have a chance to beat him. If you play like him, you will lose. You have to play at a high level and hope that he is not successful that day," he said.

World number five Alexander Zverev will make his debut in the deferred 2020 Games – with the tennis event set to start on July 24. Zverev will be seeded fourth in the men's singles draw behind Novak Djokovic, Daniil Medvedev, and Stefanos Tsitsipas.

World number five Alexander Zverev will make his debut in the deferred 2020 Games – with the tennis event set to start on July 24. Zverev will be seeded fourth in the men's singles draw behind Novak Djokovic, Daniil Medvedev, and Stefanos Tsitsipas. Addressing a German magazine, Zverev said he has loved playing under the German flag and that he would gun for glory in Tokyo. He trusts he is one of the top picks to win the gold medal in the men's singles event. "I have already said several times that I am going to Tokyo in order to get a medal for Germany. It does not mean at all that I am going to win, but it is true that I see myself as the one of the favorites for the gold medal," said Zverev. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics 2020: Two Olympic athletes test positive for COVID-19, say organisers He said the support he will receive from fans back in Germany will make playing at the Olympics a special memory. "I love Germany. I always very, very much like to play for my country. It’s even more emotional when you know that everyone is cheering at home," he added. The 24-year-old sees himself 'as someone who always has a chance against the World No.1 ahead of the Tokyo Olympics. Novak Djokovic is a top choice to win the Olympic gold medal, having won the Australian Open, French Open, and Wimbledon titles this year. But, according to Zverev, playing aggressive tennis will be the way to beat the favourite at the Olympics. "To defeat a player like Djokovic you have to do things that very few players can do. You have to outrun Nole and dominate him. I see myself as someone who may have a chance to beat him. If you play like him, you will lose. You have to play at a high level and hope that he is not successful that day," he said.

Tokyo Olympics: 'I see myself as one of the favourites for gold medal', says tennis star Alexander Zverev

World No. 1 Novak Djokovic arrived at the Tokyo Olympics confident of his successes this season.

The Serbian ace&nbsp;underlined that it will not be easy, but sounded certain of his shots at winning the gold medal.&nbsp;

Djokovic, who won his 6th title at Wimbledon and a record-equalling 20th Grand Slam title, in general, is the top pick to win the men's singles in Tokyo.&nbsp;

Addressing reporters, Djokovic said it is an "honour" for him to represent his country at the Olympics. He accepted that the numerous successes added to his repertoire this year should place him in an advantageous position in the Japanese capital.&nbsp;

“The schedule is really rough, but I feel that my preparations were good. Also, I won a lot of matches recently, which always gives you extra confidence and energy boost. Playing for my country, it is the highest honour and privilege for me," he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/amid-coronavirus-crisis-tokyo-2020-chief-does-not-rule-out-cancellation-of-olympics-399237" hreflang="en">Amid coronavirus crisis, Tokyo 2020 chief does not rule out cancellation of Olympics</a>

Djokovic has won the ATP Cup and the Davis Cup in earlier years and has now focused on getting a gold medal for Serbia at the Olympics.&nbsp;

"I am an individual athlete, rarely we have the occasion to be a team. I am grateful because we were able to win the ATP Cup and Davis Cup, and I am missing Olympic gold now. I have the highest ambitions in Tokyo, it is not a secret that I am aiming for the gold medal,” he added.

Djokovic&nbsp;highlighted that he never made it to the men's singles final in three editions of the Olympic Games.&nbsp;

He noted that the Olympics is a long competition where 'anything' can happen.&nbsp;

“Although some players from the top are not coming, there are also a lot of elite players fighting for medals: Medvedev, Tsitsipas, and Zverev are among the favorites. They are the best, but it is a long tournament, and anything can happen," he said.

Djokovic said that although the Olympics is unique in relation to different competitions, he would approach the opposition as he would some other competition.&nbsp;

“Furthermore, Olympics are specific in terms of pressure, expectations and emotions &nbsp;everything is different compared to other tournaments and I know that very well, I felt it on my own skin in the past. Therefore, I will try to approach the Olympics in the same way that I approach other tournaments, so that I can stay focused on my goal,” he concluded.

World No. 1 Novak Djokovic arrived at the Tokyo Olympics confident of his successes this season. The Serbian ace underlined that it will not be easy, but sounded certain of his shots at winning the gold medal.

World No. 1 Novak Djokovic arrived at the Tokyo Olympics confident of his successes this season. The Serbian ace underlined that it will not be easy, but sounded certain of his shots at winning the gold medal. Djokovic, who won his 6th title at Wimbledon and a record-equalling 20th Grand Slam title, in general, is the top pick to win the men's singles in Tokyo. Addressing reporters, Djokovic said it is an "honour" for him to represent his country at the Olympics. He accepted that the numerous successes added to his repertoire this year should place him in an advantageous position in the Japanese capital. “The schedule is really rough, but I feel that my preparations were good. Also, I won a lot of matches recently, which always gives you extra confidence and energy boost. Playing for my country, it is the highest honour and privilege for me," he said. ALSO READ: Amid coronavirus crisis, Tokyo 2020 chief does not rule out cancellation of Olympics Djokovic has won the ATP Cup and the Davis Cup in earlier years and has now focused on getting a gold medal for Serbia at the Olympics. "I am an individual athlete, rarely we have the occasion to be a team. I am grateful because we were able to win the ATP Cup and Davis Cup, and I am missing Olympic gold now. I have the highest ambitions in Tokyo, it is not a secret that I am aiming for the gold medal,” he added. Djokovic highlighted that he never made it to the men's singles final in three editions of the Olympic Games. He noted that the Olympics is a long competition where 'anything' can happen. “Although some players from the top are not coming, there are also a lot of elite players fighting for medals: Medvedev, Tsitsipas, and Zverev are among the favorites. They are the best, but it is a long tournament, and anything can happen," he said. Djokovic said that although the Olympics is unique in relation to different competitions, he would approach the opposition as he would some other competition. “Furthermore, Olympics are specific in terms of pressure, expectations and emotions everything is different compared to other tournaments and I know that very well, I felt it on my own skin in the past. Therefore, I will try to approach the Olympics in the same way that I approach other tournaments, so that I can stay focused on my goal,” he concluded.

Tokyo Olympics: It is not secret that I'm aiming for gold at Tokyo Olympics, says Novak Djokovic

Fresh from her breakthrough Grand Slam performance at Wimbledon, world number three Aryna Sabalenka is heading to the 2020 Olympics determined to win a medal for Belarus and says she has no reason to fear any of her rivals in Tokyo.

The 23-year-old has won 10 titles on the WTA Tour but had never crossed the fourth round at a Grand Slam before this month's Wimbledon, where she made it to the semi-finals before losing in three sets to Czech Karolina Pliskova.

"It's my first Olympic Games and I'm really looking forward to it," she told the International Tennis Federation. "This is something new for me. I would say this is the new challenge and I'm really looking forward to it.

"I'm really happy to represent my country, my people and I want to do everything I can to make sure that Belarus is proud of me. I want to represent my country as strong people who can fight through everything."

World number one Ash Barty of Australia and home hope Naomi Osaka, who is ranked second and won four of the last six Grand Slams held on hardcourts, are expected to be Sabalenka's main challengers at the Ariake Tennis Park.

"I will do everything I can to make this dream (come) true," she said, adding that just thinking about the Olympics gave her goosebumps.

"I am looking forward to the fights. This is something really unbelievable. I'm not afraid of anybody."

Fresh from her breakthrough Grand Slam performance at Wimbledon, world number three Aryna Sabalenka is heading to the 2020 Olympics determined to win a medal for Belarus and says she has no reason to fear any of her rivals in Tokyo.

Fresh from her breakthrough Grand Slam performance at Wimbledon, world number three Aryna Sabalenka is heading to the 2020 Olympics determined to win a medal for Belarus and says she has no reason to fear any of her rivals in Tokyo. The 23-year-old has won 10 titles on the WTA Tour but had never crossed the fourth round at a Grand Slam before this month's Wimbledon, where she made it to the semi-finals before losing in three sets to Czech Karolina Pliskova. "It's my first Olympic Games and I'm really looking forward to it," she told the International Tennis Federation. "This is something new for me. I would say this is the new challenge and I'm really looking forward to it. "I'm really happy to represent my country, my people and I want to do everything I can to make sure that Belarus is proud of me. I want to represent my country as strong people who can fight through everything." World number one Ash Barty of Australia and home hope Naomi Osaka, who is ranked second and won four of the last six Grand Slams held on hardcourts, are expected to be Sabalenka's main challengers at the Ariake Tennis Park. "I will do everything I can to make this dream (come) true," she said, adding that just thinking about the Olympics gave her goosebumps. "I am looking forward to the fights. This is something really unbelievable. I'm not afraid of anybody."

Tennis: Fearless Sabalenka ready for 'new challenge' in Tokyo Olympics

Wimbledon 2021 finalist and Italian ace Matteo Berrettini has joined the elite list of stars who have pulled out of the Tokyo Olympics due to a thigh injury. The 25-year-old took to social media to announce the news.&nbsp;

IN PICS|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-roger-federer-to-serena-williams-tennis-aces-who-are-set-to-miss-tokyo-olympics-398188" hreflang="en">From Roger Federer to Serena Williams: Tennis aces who are set to miss Tokyo Olympics</a>

"I am extremely disappointed to announce my withdrawal from the Tokyo Olympic Games," the 25-year-old said on Instagram.

"I had an MRI scan yesterday on the thigh injury I sustained during Wimbledon and was informed I will not be able to compete for a couple of weeks."

The Italian National Olympic Committee said they would not be able to get a replacement player for Berrettini as the International Tennis Federation's deadline to name new athletes had passed on Friday.

"Representing Italy is the biggest honour for me so it is devastating to miss the Olympics," Berrettini added.

The tennis event at the Tokyo Olympics has been hit by a series of high-profile withdrawals in recent days.

Some of the sport's biggest names, including Roger Federer, Rafa Nadal, Serena Williams, Stan Wawrinka and Simona Halep have already announced their decision to skip the Games, which has been delayed by a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

World number 8, recently, was seen battling out for the Wimbledon title against Serbian ace Novak Djokovic, however, he lost the match.&nbsp;

(Inputs from Agency)

Wimbledon 2021 finalist and Italian ace Matteo Berrettini has joined the elite list of stars who have pulled out of the Tokyo Olympics due to a thigh injury. The 25-year-old took to social media to announce the news.

Wimbledon 2021 finalist and Italian ace Matteo Berrettini has joined the elite list of stars who have pulled out of the Tokyo Olympics due to a thigh injury. The 25-year-old took to social media to announce the news. IN PICS| From Roger Federer to Serena Williams: Tennis aces who are set to miss Tokyo Olympics "I am extremely disappointed to announce my withdrawal from the Tokyo Olympic Games," the 25-year-old said on Instagram. "I had an MRI scan yesterday on the thigh injury I sustained during Wimbledon and was informed I will not be able to compete for a couple of weeks." The Italian National Olympic Committee said they would not be able to get a replacement player for Berrettini as the International Tennis Federation's deadline to name new athletes had passed on Friday. "Representing Italy is the biggest honour for me so it is devastating to miss the Olympics," Berrettini added. The tennis event at the Tokyo Olympics has been hit by a series of high-profile withdrawals in recent days. Some of the sport's biggest names, including Roger Federer, Rafa Nadal, Serena Williams, Stan Wawrinka and Simona Halep have already announced their decision to skip the Games, which has been delayed by a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. World number 8, recently, was seen battling out for the Wimbledon title against Serbian ace Novak Djokovic, however, he lost the match. (Inputs from Agency)

'Extremely disappointed': Matteo Berrettini pulls out of Tokyo Olympics

Tennis star Roger Federer announced&nbsp;that he will not be participating in&nbsp;the Tokyo Olympics after suffering a knee injury during the grasscourt season.

The former world no-1 was knocked by Poland's Hubert Hurkacz&nbsp;in the quarter-finals of Wimbledon in straight sets.&nbsp;

Federer is not the first tennis star to back out from the mega event.&nbsp;Rafael Nadal, Dominic Thiem, Serena Williams, Stan Wawrinka,&nbsp;Simona Halep&nbsp;and Nick Kyrgios&nbsp;have also&nbsp;withdrawn from the Olympics which starts on July 23.

Roger Federer said: “During the grass court season, I unfortunately experienced a setback with my knee&nbsp;and have accepted that I must withdraw from the Tokyo Olympic Games.”

“I am greatly disappointed, as it has been an honour and highlight of my career each time I have represented Switzerland.”

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“I have already begun rehabilitation in the hopes of returning to the tour later this summer. I wish the entire Swiss team the best of luck and I will be rooting hard from afar. As always, Hopp Schwiz,” he added.&nbsp;

Tennis star Roger Federer announced that he will not be participating in the Tokyo Olympics after suffering a knee injury during the grasscourt season. The former world no-1 was knocked by Poland's Hubert Hurkacz in the quarter-finals of Wimbledon in straight sets.

Tennis star Roger Federer announced that he will not be participating in the Tokyo Olympics after suffering a knee injury during the grasscourt season. The former world no-1 was knocked by Poland's Hubert Hurkacz in the quarter-finals of Wimbledon in straight sets. Federer is not the first tennis star to back out from the mega event. Rafael Nadal, Dominic Thiem, Serena Williams, Stan Wawrinka, Simona Halep and Nick Kyrgios have also withdrawn from the Olympics which starts on July 23. Roger Federer said: “During the grass court season, I unfortunately experienced a setback with my knee and have accepted that I must withdraw from the Tokyo Olympic Games.” “I am greatly disappointed, as it has been an honour and highlight of my career each time I have represented Switzerland.” pic.twitter.com/ngIlD6MYew — Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) July 13, 2021 × “I have already begun rehabilitation in the hopes of returning to the tour later this summer. I wish the entire Swiss team the best of luck and I will be rooting hard from afar. As always, Hopp Schwiz,” he added.

Tennis: Roger Federer withdraws from Tokyo Olympics

Karolina Pliskova's run to the Wimbledon final has lifted the Czech 15 spots to number five on the leaderboard for the season-ending WTA Finals, the WTA Tour said.

The 29-year-old former world No.1, who was 20th in the 'Race to Shenzhen' before the grasscourt Grand Slam, collected 1,300 points and was the biggest mover of the week.

Australian world number one Ash Barty, who beat Pliskova on the All England Club's Centre Court on Saturday to claim her second Grand Slam, cemented her spot at the top of the ladder with a lead of 1,853 points over Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus.

The season-ending WTA Finals, contested by the world's top eight singles players and eight doubles teams, was cancelled last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic and its fate for 2021 is still unclear.

The Asian swing of tournaments has been wiped from the WTA calendar for a second successive year due to the pandemic, with the governing body saying discussions about the Finals were ongoing.

The annual showpiece had a prize purse of $14 million in 2019 when it was played in Shenzhen for the first time after ending a five-year run in Singapore.

Roland Garros winner Barbora Krejcikova lost a place and was at third spot ahead of last year's French Open champion Iga Swiatek, while Tunisia's Ons Jabeur, the first Arab woman to reach the quarter-finals of Wimbledon, is hot on the heels of eighth-placed Russian Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova.

Karolina Pliskova's run to the Wimbledon final has lifted the Czech 15 spots to number five on the leaderboard for the season-ending WTA Finals, the WTA Tour said.

Karolina Pliskova's run to the Wimbledon final has lifted the Czech 15 spots to number five on the leaderboard for the season-ending WTA Finals, the WTA Tour said. The 29-year-old former world No.1, who was 20th in the 'Race to Shenzhen' before the grasscourt Grand Slam, collected 1,300 points and was the biggest mover of the week. Australian world number one Ash Barty, who beat Pliskova on the All England Club's Centre Court on Saturday to claim her second Grand Slam, cemented her spot at the top of the ladder with a lead of 1,853 points over Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus. The season-ending WTA Finals, contested by the world's top eight singles players and eight doubles teams, was cancelled last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic and its fate for 2021 is still unclear. The Asian swing of tournaments has been wiped from the WTA calendar for a second successive year due to the pandemic, with the governing body saying discussions about the Finals were ongoing. The annual showpiece had a prize purse of $14 million in 2019 when it was played in Shenzhen for the first time after ending a five-year run in Singapore. Roland Garros winner Barbora Krejcikova lost a place and was at third spot ahead of last year's French Open champion Iga Swiatek, while Tunisia's Ons Jabeur, the first Arab woman to reach the quarter-finals of Wimbledon, is hot on the heels of eighth-placed Russian Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova.

Tennis: Wimbledon finalist Karolina Pliskova soars to fifth in WTA Finals race

Novak Djokovic won his 20th Grand Slam title at Wimbledon, to equalise with Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. He knocked out Matteo Berrettini 6-7(4) 6-4 6-4 6-3 to guarantee his 6th title at Wimbledon and third consecutive Slam of the year.&nbsp;

With the title, Novak Djokovic has at last found his two biggest adversaries, satisfying a fantasy he has held onto for over a decade. During the on-court interview, he was asked about Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal's role in his vocation, Novak Djokovic was as genuine and generous as anyone might think possible. He conceded that it was the duo's strength that pushed him higher than ever and assisted him with fostering his game on a physical, mental, and strategic level.&nbsp;

"I have mentioned this many times before. I have to pay great tribute to Rafa and Roger. They are legends of our sport and they are the two most important players I ever faced in my career. They are the reason I am where I am today. They have helped me realize what I needed to do to get stronger mentally, physically, tactically."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-2021-novak-djokovic-wins-20th-grand-slam-after-beating-matteo-berrettini-397457" hreflang="en">Wimbledon 2021: Novak Djokovic wins 20th Grand Slam after beating Matteo Berrettini</a>

Novak Djokovic additionally spoke about the battles he went through after breaking into the best ten. Since 2011, he has won 19 Grand Slams until now. During this period, he has pivoted his record against both Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.&nbsp;

"When I broke into the top 10 for the first time, for three to four years I lost most of the big matches I played against these guys. Something shifted to end of 2010, the beginning of 2011. The last ten years have been an incredible journey that's not stopping here."

While Novak Djokovic has effectively won the Australian Open, Roland Garros and Wimbledon this year, he actually has a lot to focus on. He is hoping to become the first man to finish a Calendar Slam in the Open Era. He can do as such by winning the US Open in the not-so-distant future.&nbsp;

"I could definitely envision that happening. I am hoping. I am definitely going to give it a shot," he said. "I am in great form, obviously playing well. Playing my best tennis at Grand Slams is the highest priority I have at this stage of my career. So, let's keep it going."

Novak Djokovic won his 20th Grand Slam title at Wimbledon, to equalise with Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. He knocked out Matteo Berrettini 6-7(4) 6-4 6-4 6-3 to guarantee his 6th title at Wimbledon and third consecutive Slam of the year.

Novak Djokovic won his 20th Grand Slam title at Wimbledon, to equalise with Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. He knocked out Matteo Berrettini 6-7(4) 6-4 6-4 6-3 to guarantee his 6th title at Wimbledon and third consecutive Slam of the year. With the title, Novak Djokovic has at last found his two biggest adversaries, satisfying a fantasy he has held onto for over a decade. During the on-court interview, he was asked about Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal's role in his vocation, Novak Djokovic was as genuine and generous as anyone might think possible. He conceded that it was the duo's strength that pushed him higher than ever and assisted him with fostering his game on a physical, mental, and strategic level. "I have mentioned this many times before. I have to pay great tribute to Rafa and Roger. They are legends of our sport and they are the two most important players I ever faced in my career. They are the reason I am where I am today. They have helped me realize what I needed to do to get stronger mentally, physically, tactically." ALSO READ: Wimbledon 2021: Novak Djokovic wins 20th Grand Slam after beating Matteo Berrettini Novak Djokovic additionally spoke about the battles he went through after breaking into the best ten. Since 2011, he has won 19 Grand Slams until now. During this period, he has pivoted his record against both Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. "When I broke into the top 10 for the first time, for three to four years I lost most of the big matches I played against these guys. Something shifted to end of 2010, the beginning of 2011. The last ten years have been an incredible journey that's not stopping here." While Novak Djokovic has effectively won the Australian Open, Roland Garros and Wimbledon this year, he actually has a lot to focus on. He is hoping to become the first man to finish a Calendar Slam in the Open Era. He can do as such by winning the US Open in the not-so-distant future. "I could definitely envision that happening. I am hoping. I am definitely going to give it a shot," he said. "I am in great form, obviously playing well. Playing my best tennis at Grand Slams is the highest priority I have at this stage of my career. So, let's keep it going."

Wimbledon 2021: 'They are legends of our sport', Djokovic pays tribute to his arch-rivals after winning the title

Ashleigh Barty had a stupendous ending with a 6-3, 6(4)- 7, 6-3 triumph over Karolina Pliskova in the final of Wimbledon 2021. With the success, she finished Australia's 41-year hang tight for the Venus Rosewater Dish.&nbsp;

Having satisfied a childhood dream, Ashleigh Barty was overflowing with emotions in her post-match press conference. She said: "To be able to be successful here at Wimbledon, to achieve my biggest dream, has been absolutely incredible. The stars aligned for me over the past fortnight."

Barty additionally added had a feeling of doubt in the prompt repercussions of the success. She proceeded to devote the memorable accomplishment to her team and individuals who helped her on her excursion towards accomplishing her fantasies.&nbsp;

"It was the most incredible feeling I think I’ve ever experienced on a tennis court. There was certainly disbelief. I think I’ve worked so hard my whole career with my team and with people that mean the most to me to try and achieve my goals and my dreams. To be able to do that today was incredible."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-2021-ashleigh-barty-dominates-and-goes-on-to-win-her-second-grand-slam-397242" hreflang="en">Wimbledon 2021: Ashleigh Barty dominates and goes on to win her second Grand Slam</a>

She further explained on creating her own heritage in a rich wearing country like Australia. She trusts that her win can move the age coming after her to put stock in their dreams.&nbsp;

"Australians have such a rich history in the sport, and I think being able to be a very small part of that is something I always dreamt of, try and create a legacy, try and create a path for young girls and boys to believe in their dreams. Being able to kind of live through that and learn my lessons along the way has been some of the best parts of my journey."

It required 10 years of determination and managing extreme losses for her to at long last engraving her name on the Venus Rosewater Dish. While considering her excursion, Ashleigh Barty spouted about how famous the Wimbledon venue is, prior to considering herself a lucky woman.

"I feel like Wimbledon is where tennis was born essentially. This is where it all started. This is where so many hopes and dreams were kind of born. I think being able to understand that as I played here and played here as a junior, was able to experience that incredible week," she said.

"I’ve said before, some of my toughest moments have come at Wimbledon. Now some of my most incredible moments have come here as well. I think it's just an iconic venue. It's an amazing club. To be able to learn so much from this place, I think I'm a very lucky girl," she added.

Ashleigh Barty had a stupendous ending with a 6-3, 6(4)- 7, 6-3 triumph over Karolina Pliskova in the final of Wimbledon 2021. With the success, she finished Australia's 41-year hang tight for the Venus Rosewater Dish.

Ashleigh Barty had a stupendous ending with a 6-3, 6(4)- 7, 6-3 triumph over Karolina Pliskova in the final of Wimbledon 2021. With the success, she finished Australia's 41-year hang tight for the Venus Rosewater Dish. Having satisfied a childhood dream, Ashleigh Barty was overflowing with emotions in her post-match press conference. She said: "To be able to be successful here at Wimbledon, to achieve my biggest dream, has been absolutely incredible. The stars aligned for me over the past fortnight." Barty additionally added had a feeling of doubt in the prompt repercussions of the success. She proceeded to devote the memorable accomplishment to her team and individuals who helped her on her excursion towards accomplishing her fantasies. "It was the most incredible feeling I think I’ve ever experienced on a tennis court. There was certainly disbelief. I think I’ve worked so hard my whole career with my team and with people that mean the most to me to try and achieve my goals and my dreams. To be able to do that today was incredible." ALSO READ: Wimbledon 2021: Ashleigh Barty dominates and goes on to win her second Grand Slam She further explained on creating her own heritage in a rich wearing country like Australia. She trusts that her win can move the age coming after her to put stock in their dreams. "Australians have such a rich history in the sport, and I think being able to be a very small part of that is something I always dreamt of, try and create a legacy, try and create a path for young girls and boys to believe in their dreams. Being able to kind of live through that and learn my lessons along the way has been some of the best parts of my journey." It required 10 years of determination and managing extreme losses for her to at long last engraving her name on the Venus Rosewater Dish. While considering her excursion, Ashleigh Barty spouted about how famous the Wimbledon venue is, prior to considering herself a lucky woman. "I feel like Wimbledon is where tennis was born essentially. This is where it all started. This is where so many hopes and dreams were kind of born. I think being able to understand that as I played here and played here as a junior, was able to experience that incredible week," she said. "I’ve said before, some of my toughest moments have come at Wimbledon. Now some of my most incredible moments have come here as well. I think it's just an iconic venue. It's an amazing club. To be able to learn so much from this place, I think I'm a very lucky girl," she added.

Tennis: Wimbledon win is most incredible feeling I've experienced on court, says Ashleigh Barty

Indian-American Samir Banerjee on Sunday won the Wimbledon Junior Men`s title at Number 1 Court. He defeated Victor Lilov of America by 7-5, 6-3 in the Junior Men`s finals to lift the trophy at All England Club.

For the first time since 2014, and only the second time since 1977, there was an all-American conclusion to the boys` singles event. Notably, both 17-year-olds were unseeded for The Championships.

The first set between the duo went back and forth, but in the end, Banerjee managed to hold his own to win the set by 7-5. In the second set, Samir was in cruise mode as he broke the early serve of Lilov and completed his triumph over the compatriot in just one hour and 21 minutes.

In girls` singles, final German Nastasja Mariana Schunk faces Ane Mintegi Del Olmo of Spain in another battle of unseeded 17-year-olds. Spain have had success in the ladies` singles, with Conchita Martinez and Garbine Muguruza each lifting the Venus Rosewater Dish, but a Spaniard is yet to win the girls` singles title.

Later, Abedallah Shelbayh has a chance to become the first Jordanian Grand Slam winner at any level when he teams with Spain`s Daniel Rincon in the boys` doubles final against Edas Butvilas of Lithuania and Spain`s Alejandro Manzanera Pertusa.No.1 seeds Kristina Dmitruk of Belarus and Russian Diana Shnaider face the Belgian-Finnish pair of Sofia Costoulas and Laura Hietaranta for the girls` doubles title.&nbsp;

Indian-American Samir Banerjee on Sunday won the Wimbledon Junior Men`s title at Number 1 Court. He defeated Victor Lilov of America by 7-5, 6-3 in the Junior Men`s finals to lift the trophy at All England Club.

Indian-American Samir Banerjee on Sunday won the Wimbledon Junior Men`s title at Number 1 Court. He defeated Victor Lilov of America by 7-5, 6-3 in the Junior Men`s finals to lift the trophy at All England Club. For the first time since 2014, and only the second time since 1977, there was an all-American conclusion to the boys` singles event. Notably, both 17-year-olds were unseeded for The Championships. The first set between the duo went back and forth, but in the end, Banerjee managed to hold his own to win the set by 7-5. In the second set, Samir was in cruise mode as he broke the early serve of Lilov and completed his triumph over the compatriot in just one hour and 21 minutes. In girls` singles, final German Nastasja Mariana Schunk faces Ane Mintegi Del Olmo of Spain in another battle of unseeded 17-year-olds. Spain have had success in the ladies` singles, with Conchita Martinez and Garbine Muguruza each lifting the Venus Rosewater Dish, but a Spaniard is yet to win the girls` singles title. Later, Abedallah Shelbayh has a chance to become the first Jordanian Grand Slam winner at any level when he teams with Spain`s Daniel Rincon in the boys` doubles final against Edas Butvilas of Lithuania and Spain`s Alejandro Manzanera Pertusa.No.1 seeds Kristina Dmitruk of Belarus and Russian Diana Shnaider face the Belgian-Finnish pair of Sofia Costoulas and Laura Hietaranta for the girls` doubles title.

Tennis: Samir Banerjee wins Wimbledon Junior Men's title, overpowers Victor Lilov in final

Ashleigh&nbsp;Barty has not set foot on home soil since March but the endless air miles, hotel rooms and COVID-19 bubbles will all be worthwhile if she becomes the first Australian woman to win Wimbledon for 41 years on Saturday.

The 25-year-old world number one has reached her maiden Wimbledon final in impressive fashion and stands on the cusp of emulating her idol Evonne Goolagong who claimed the second of her titles at the All England Club in 1980.

Standing in her way is the formidable presence of big-serving Czech Karolina Pliskova whose journey to the Centre Court showpiece has also been a long and winding one.

Barty, bidding for a second Grand Slam title having won the French Open in 2019, will start as favourite having won five of the seven matches she has played against Pliskova.

Like Pliskova, she has dropped one set en route to the final and has shown no sign of the hip injury that forced her out of the French Open and put her Wimbledon place in doubt.

Barty, winner of the girls singles in 2011, has made no secret of targeting Wimbledon this year and coach Craig Tyzzer said it is a challenge she has embraced.

"I think it's always been on her mind. But to come out and say it is a big step," Tyzzer told reporters on Friday.

"But Ash has been the sort of person who will put it on the line. She'll do her best. If it doesn't work out, it doesn't work out. She's not afraid to try.

"Her confidence level has been really good. She's been playing good&nbsp;tennis. She's been building, it's getting better. We've got one more job to do."

Australians have enriched Wimbledon folklore with the likes of Rod Laver, Roy Emerson and John Newcombe dominating on the lawns in the 1960s and early 1970s.

But Barty has a special affinity with Goolagong with whom she shares indigenous Australian heritage and an artistic all-court game that would grace any era.

So lifting the Venus Rosewater Dish 50 years after Goolagong's trailblazing first Wimbledon title would be extra special.

"To kind of give myself a chance to create some history almost in a way that's a tribute to her is really exciting," Barty said after her semi-final win against Angelique Kerber.

For former world number one Pliskova, it represents another chance to prove she has what it takes to win a Grand Slam title having been talked up so often in the past only to fall short with monotonous regularity.

Since reaching her maiden Grand Slam final at the U.S. Open in 2016, Pliskova reached only two more semi-finals at the majors before this year's Wimbledon run.

For a player with such big weapons, her Wimbledon record has been mystifying with six of her eight previous visits ending either in the first or second rounds.

This time, her ranking down at 13, Pliskova came under the radar, but has stormed through the draw, surviving a heavy metal clash with second seed Aryna Sabalenka in the semi-final.

Coach Sascha Bajin, who began working with the 29-year-old Czech in 2020, said it was a question of giving her the belief that grass was the perfect surface for her game.

"I spoke with her a little bit about it yesterday, I was like, I don't understand how she hasn't done better here before," Bajin, who coached Naomi Osaka to her first two Grand Slam titles, told reporters.

"With all her big weapons that she has. She has big serves. She has good slice. She has actually also good touch. She can drop some balls very low behind the net. She has good volleys.

"I always thought her game was well-suited for this surface. I'm just happy that it's displaying this year with me."

Ashleigh Barty has not set foot on home soil since March but the endless air miles, hotel rooms and COVID-19 bubbles will all be worthwhile if she becomes the first Australian woman to win Wimbledon for 41 years on Saturday.

Ashleigh Barty has not set foot on home soil since March but the endless air miles, hotel rooms and COVID-19 bubbles will all be worthwhile if she becomes the first Australian woman to win Wimbledon for 41 years on Saturday. The 25-year-old world number one has reached her maiden Wimbledon final in impressive fashion and stands on the cusp of emulating her idol Evonne Goolagong who claimed the second of her titles at the All England Club in 1980. Standing in her way is the formidable presence of big-serving Czech Karolina Pliskova whose journey to the Centre Court showpiece has also been a long and winding one. Barty, bidding for a second Grand Slam title having won the French Open in 2019, will start as favourite having won five of the seven matches she has played against Pliskova. Like Pliskova, she has dropped one set en route to the final and has shown no sign of the hip injury that forced her out of the French Open and put her Wimbledon place in doubt. Barty, winner of the girls singles in 2011, has made no secret of targeting Wimbledon this year and coach Craig Tyzzer said it is a challenge she has embraced. "I think it's always been on her mind. But to come out and say it is a big step," Tyzzer told reporters on Friday. "But Ash has been the sort of person who will put it on the line. She'll do her best. If it doesn't work out, it doesn't work out. She's not afraid to try. "Her confidence level has been really good. She's been playing good tennis. She's been building, it's getting better. We've got one more job to do." Australians have enriched Wimbledon folklore with the likes of Rod Laver, Roy Emerson and John Newcombe dominating on the lawns in the 1960s and early 1970s. But Barty has a special affinity with Goolagong with whom she shares indigenous Australian heritage and an artistic all-court game that would grace any era. So lifting the Venus Rosewater Dish 50 years after Goolagong's trailblazing first Wimbledon title would be extra special. "To kind of give myself a chance to create some history almost in a way that's a tribute to her is really exciting," Barty said after her semi-final win against Angelique Kerber. For former world number one Pliskova, it represents another chance to prove she has what it takes to win a Grand Slam title having been talked up so often in the past only to fall short with monotonous regularity. Since reaching her maiden Grand Slam final at the U.S. Open in 2016, Pliskova reached only two more semi-finals at the majors before this year's Wimbledon run. For a player with such big weapons, her Wimbledon record has been mystifying with six of her eight previous visits ending either in the first or second rounds. This time, her ranking down at 13, Pliskova came under the radar, but has stormed through the draw, surviving a heavy metal clash with second seed Aryna Sabalenka in the semi-final. Coach Sascha Bajin, who began working with the 29-year-old Czech in 2020, said it was a question of giving her the belief that grass was the perfect surface for her game. "I spoke with her a little bit about it yesterday, I was like, I don't understand how she hasn't done better here before," Bajin, who coached Naomi Osaka to her first two Grand Slam titles, told reporters. "With all her big weapons that she has. She has big serves. She has good slice. She has actually also good touch. She can drop some balls very low behind the net. She has good volleys. "I always thought her game was well-suited for this surface. I'm just happy that it's displaying this year with me."

Wimbledon 2021: Ashleigh Barty  primed to end Aussie wait for title against Karolina Pliskova

Ashleigh Barty will be searching for her subsequent Grand Slam title when she takes on eighth-cultivated Karolina Pliskova in the final at Wimbledon. Ashleigh Barty is attempting to turn into the first Australian woman since Evonne Goolagong in 1980 to win the Wimbledon title. She won the 2019 French Open, while Karolina Pliskova is searching for her first Grand Slam title.&nbsp;

Karolina Pliskova beat She beat Serena Williams in the elimination rounds of the 2016 U.S. Open prior to losing to Angelique Kerber in the championship. This time, Pliskova beat No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka in the elimination rounds and can turn out to be only the fourth woman in the Open period, which started in 1968, to beat the best two seeds at the All England Club en route to taking the trophy.

<h2>Here is all you need to know about Wimbledon 2021 Women's singles semifinal match&nbsp;Ashleigh Barty vs&nbsp;Karolina Pliskova</h2>

<h2>Where is the Wimbledon 2021 Women’s singles semifinal match&nbsp;Ashleigh Barty vs&nbsp;Karolina Pliskova taking place?</h2>

Wimbledon 2021 Women's singles final match&nbsp;Ashleigh Barty vs&nbsp;Karolina Pliskova will begin at 6:30&nbsp;PM IST on Saturday, July 10th, 2021.

<h2>What is the head-to-head record between Barty and Pliskova?</h2>

Ashleigh Barty at present leads the head-to-head on record 5-2, including a three-match dominating altercation in their last five matches. In fact, Karolina Pliskova has beaten Barty only once in their last five meetings.

<h2>When and how to watch the live coverage of Wimbledon 2021 Men’s singles semifinal match&nbsp;Ashleigh Barty vs Karolina Pliskova?</h2>

The Wimbledon 2021 Women's singles final match Ashleigh Barty versus Karolina Pliskova will be broadcasted live on TV on Star Sports Select 1 and Star Sports Select 2 SD and HD channels.

The online streaming of the Wimbledon 2021 Women's single's final match Ashleigh Barty versus Karolina Pliskova will be accessible on Disney+ Hotstar in India.&nbsp;

Ashleigh Barty will be searching for her subsequent Grand Slam title when she takes on eighth-cultivated Karolina Pliskova in the final at Wimbledon. Ashleigh Barty is attempting to turn into the first Australian woman since Evonne Goolagong in 1980 to win the Wimbledon title.

Ashleigh Barty will be searching for her subsequent Grand Slam title when she takes on eighth-cultivated Karolina Pliskova in the final at Wimbledon. Ashleigh Barty is attempting to turn into the first Australian woman since Evonne Goolagong in 1980 to win the Wimbledon title. She won the 2019 French Open, while Karolina Pliskova is searching for her first Grand Slam title. Karolina Pliskova beat She beat Serena Williams in the elimination rounds of the 2016 U.S. Open prior to losing to Angelique Kerber in the championship. This time, Pliskova beat No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka in the elimination rounds and can turn out to be only the fourth woman in the Open period, which started in 1968, to beat the best two seeds at the All England Club en route to taking the trophy. Here is all you need to know about Wimbledon 2021 Women's singles semifinal match Ashleigh Barty vs Karolina Pliskova Where is the Wimbledon 2021 Women’s singles semifinal match Ashleigh Barty vs Karolina Pliskova taking place? Wimbledon 2021 Women's singles final match Ashleigh Barty vs Karolina Pliskova will begin at 6:30 PM IST on Saturday, July 10th, 2021. What is the head-to-head record between Barty and Pliskova? Ashleigh Barty at present leads the head-to-head on record 5-2, including a three-match dominating altercation in their last five matches. In fact, Karolina Pliskova has beaten Barty only once in their last five meetings. When and how to watch the live coverage of Wimbledon 2021 Men’s singles semifinal match Ashleigh Barty vs Karolina Pliskova? The Wimbledon 2021 Women's singles final match Ashleigh Barty versus Karolina Pliskova will be broadcasted live on TV on Star Sports Select 1 and Star Sports Select 2 SD and HD channels. The online streaming of the Wimbledon 2021 Women's single's final match Ashleigh Barty versus Karolina Pliskova will be accessible on Disney+ Hotstar in India.

Wimbledon 2021, Finals, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Barty vs Pliskova?

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