Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic was hit on the head by a metal water bottle on Friday (May 10) at the ongoing Italian Open. Djokovic was signing&nbsp;autographs when a bottle dropped on his head. The tennis star, however, said that he's fine and it was an accident.

The video posted on the social media platform X shows that Djokovic was signing a hat of a fan and the bottle dropped on his head. He immediately bent down holding his head with both hands and was shielded by a security guard. Have a look at the video below:

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Il y a quand même des enculés sur Terre... 
Stay strong Novak 💪🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Djokovic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Djokovic</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IBI24?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IBI24</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATPRome?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ATPRome</a> <a href="https://t.co/OLRWJYWfB7">pic.twitter.com/OLRWJYWfB7</a>
— Martinho (@DelMartin0) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelMartin0/status/1789005722354683928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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After the incident, Djokovic skipped the post-match press conference and wrote on X: "Thank you for the messages of concern. This was an accident and I am fine resting at the hotel with an ice pack,. See you all Sunday."

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The organisers also issued a statement which read: "While leaving center court after his match, Novak Djokovic was hit on the head by a water bottle while signing autographs. He received medical attention and has already left the Foro Italico to return to his hotel. His condition is not a cause for concern."

Alessandro Catapano, Italian tennis federation's spokesperson, revealed the extent of Djokovic's injury, which did not require stitches, and said: "He was upset, but he seems OK. We’re also very upset about what happened and we are trying to figure out who it was and understand the dynamics."

"The police came and asked for information but the person who did it had already left. We’re going through all of the video and camera angles to see if we can determine what exactly happened," he added.

As for his match, he had profoundly beaten French qualifier Corentin Moutet 6-3, 6-1 in his opening match of the tournament. He'll next play against Alejandro Tabilo on Sunday (May 12).

Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic was hit on the head by a metal water bottle on Friday (May 10) at the ongoing Italian Open. Djokovic was signing autographs when a bottle dropped on his head.

Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic was hit on the head by a metal water bottle on Friday (May 10) at the ongoing Italian Open. Djokovic was signing autographs when a bottle dropped on his head. The tennis star, however, said that he's fine and it was an accident. The video posted on the social media platform X shows that Djokovic was signing a hat of a fan and the bottle dropped on his head. He immediately bent down holding his head with both hands and was shielded by a security guard. Have a look at the video below: Il y a quand même des enculés sur Terre... Stay strong Novak 💪🔥#Djokovic #IBI24 #ATPRome pic.twitter.com/OLRWJYWfB7 — Martinho (@DelMartin0) May 10, 2024 × After the incident, Djokovic skipped the post-match press conference and wrote on X: "Thank you for the messages of concern. This was an accident and I am fine resting at the hotel with an ice pack,. See you all Sunday." Also Read: Javelin king Neeraj Chopra fell two centimeters shy of first spot finish in Doha Diamond League - Watch Video The organisers also issued a statement which read: "While leaving center court after his match, Novak Djokovic was hit on the head by a water bottle while signing autographs. He received medical attention and has already left the Foro Italico to return to his hotel. His condition is not a cause for concern." Alessandro Catapano, Italian tennis federation's spokesperson, revealed the extent of Djokovic's injury, which did not require stitches, and said: "He was upset, but he seems OK. We’re also very upset about what happened and we are trying to figure out who it was and understand the dynamics." "The police came and asked for information but the person who did it had already left. We’re going through all of the video and camera angles to see if we can determine what exactly happened," he added. As for his match, he had profoundly beaten French qualifier Corentin Moutet 6-3, 6-1 in his opening match of the tournament. He'll next play against Alejandro Tabilo on Sunday (May 12).

Novak Djokovic hit on head by water bottle at Italian Open - Watch

Rafael Nadal survived a tough scare from Belgian qualifier&nbsp;Zizou Bergs to go past the opening round in the Italian Open on Thursday (May 9). Going down in the first set 4-6, Nadal had a herculean task ahead but the former world number one was up for the challenge and came back in style to win 4-6, 6-3, 6-4&nbsp;in a match that lasted over&nbsp;more than 3 hours.

Nadal, the 10-time Italian Open champion who is on the road to a comeback following a plethora of injuries, wasn't at his best which gave a good chance to the 24-year-old. The Spaniard&nbsp;struggled&nbsp;with his movement and pace in the opening set, however, the experienced player&nbsp;found his footing and his signature fighting spirit in the next two sets. The turning point proved to be when Nadal broke Bergs' serve in the third game of the second set, paving the way for&nbsp;a thrilling comeback.

Talking about the third set, it saw both players exchanging breaks and displaying their grit and determination. Nadal's experience and fighting spirit proved to be the difference as he won&nbsp;4-6, 6-3, 6-4 to move ahead in the Italian Open,&nbsp;Masters 1000 tournament in Rome.

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After the match, Nadal said, "It was not my best match. I was practising better than how I played today without a doubt but I found a way to win."

"That is so important at the beginning of the tournament. My game is more unpredictable than before. I didn't play much tennis for the past two years, so it is up and down. I think I can do much better than I did today and hope I can do it in the next round," he added.

Nadal will now lock horns with&nbsp;Poland's Hubert Hurkacz, facing the seventh seed for the first time in his decade-long&nbsp;career. The Spanish maestro will be eager to make a strong statement in the Italian Open&nbsp;ahead of the French Open which kicks off later this month.

Rafael Nadal survived a tough scare from Belgian qualifier Zizou Bergs to go past the opening round in the Italian Open on Thursday (May 9). Going down in the first set 4-6, Nadal had a herculean task ahead but the former world number one was up for the challenge and came back in style to win 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 in a match that lasted over more than 3 hours.

Rafael Nadal survived a tough scare from Belgian qualifier Zizou Bergs to go past the opening round in the Italian Open on Thursday (May 9). Going down in the first set 4-6, Nadal had a herculean task ahead but the former world number one was up for the challenge and came back in style to win 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 in a match that lasted over more than 3 hours. Nadal, the 10-time Italian Open champion who is on the road to a comeback following a plethora of injuries, wasn't at his best which gave a good chance to the 24-year-old. The Spaniard struggled with his movement and pace in the opening set, however, the experienced player found his footing and his signature fighting spirit in the next two sets. The turning point proved to be when Nadal broke Bergs' serve in the third game of the second set, paving the way for a thrilling comeback. Talking about the third set, it saw both players exchanging breaks and displaying their grit and determination. Nadal's experience and fighting spirit proved to be the difference as he won 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 to move ahead in the Italian Open, Masters 1000 tournament in Rome. Also read: Clinical Atalanta thrash Marseille 3-0 to reach Europa League final After the match, Nadal said, "It was not my best match. I was practising better than how I played today without a doubt but I found a way to win." "That is so important at the beginning of the tournament. My game is more unpredictable than before. I didn't play much tennis for the past two years, so it is up and down. I think I can do much better than I did today and hope I can do it in the next round," he added. Nadal will now lock horns with Poland's Hubert Hurkacz, facing the seventh seed for the first time in his decade-long career. The Spanish maestro will be eager to make a strong statement in the Italian Open ahead of the French Open which kicks off later this month.

Rafael Nadal survives scare from Belgium qualifier Zizou Bergs to pass Italian Open first round

Rafa Nadal said on Wednesday (May 8) that he hopes his body will allow him to keep playing as he looks ahead to the French Open and Olympics this summer.

The 37-year-old Spaniard, who has said he expects to retire after the 2024 season, returned to competition in Brisbane in January after almost a year sidelined with a hip flexor injury.

He was then out for another stretch due to a thigh issue and returned in Barcelona last month.

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Speaking in Rome ahead of his Italian Open match against Belgian qualifier Zizou Bergs, Nadal said he still enjoys playing tennis but has to manage his body carefully.

"I am happy doing what I am doing, when I'm talking about retirement it's not because I am not happy any more playing tennis or not because I am not feeling myself competitive enough, that's not the case, it's about the body was not able to play weeks in a row, was not able to allow me to practice and enjoy the practices in a daily basis," Nadal said, adding that a month ago he could not have believed it possible that he has returned to the court so quickly.

Nadal also spoke about the injury risks that top players face due to their workloads, with young stars Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner missing in Rome due to injury.

"If we want to talk about why people get injured I tell you very clear, when you push your body to the limit you get injured in the end, when the game is faster and faster and faster you get injured, when you play most of the year on hard courts where the surfaces are tougher for the body, you get injured. So that's the simple answer."

The 22-time Grand Slam singles champion enters the Italian Open unseeded and ranked 305 in the world.

Rafa Nadal said on Wednesday (May 8) that he hopes his body will allow him to keep playing as he looks ahead to the French Open and Olympics this summer. The 37-year-old Spaniard, who has said he expects to retire after the 2024 season, returned to competition in Brisbane in January after almost a year sidelined with a hip flexor injury.

Rafa Nadal said on Wednesday (May 8) that he hopes his body will allow him to keep playing as he looks ahead to the French Open and Olympics this summer. The 37-year-old Spaniard, who has said he expects to retire after the 2024 season, returned to competition in Brisbane in January after almost a year sidelined with a hip flexor injury. He was then out for another stretch due to a thigh issue and returned in Barcelona last month. Also Read: After AstraZeneca row, Kevin Pietersen says Australian govt should apologise to Novak Djokovic Speaking in Rome ahead of his Italian Open match against Belgian qualifier Zizou Bergs, Nadal said he still enjoys playing tennis but has to manage his body carefully. "I am happy doing what I am doing, when I'm talking about retirement it's not because I am not happy any more playing tennis or not because I am not feeling myself competitive enough, that's not the case, it's about the body was not able to play weeks in a row, was not able to allow me to practice and enjoy the practices in a daily basis," Nadal said, adding that a month ago he could not have believed it possible that he has returned to the court so quickly. Nadal also spoke about the injury risks that top players face due to their workloads, with young stars Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner missing in Rome due to injury. "If we want to talk about why people get injured I tell you very clear, when you push your body to the limit you get injured in the end, when the game is faster and faster and faster you get injured, when you play most of the year on hard courts where the surfaces are tougher for the body, you get injured. So that's the simple answer." The 22-time Grand Slam singles champion enters the Italian Open unseeded and ranked 305 in the world.

Rafael Nadal 'hopes his body will allow' to play in French Open

American tennis&nbsp;player Danielle Collins announced in January 2024 that she would retire after the end of the season. Since then, the 15th-ranked player has been in sensational form and ahead of the forthcoming Italian Open, which will be her last tournament in Rome, Collins spoke at length about her retirement and is shocked how people are not willing to accept her retirement call.

'IT IS REALLY BIZARRE'

In a recent interview with Tennis TV, the 30-year-old Collins stated, "I think society and even the people who follow my life closely have had a difficult time accepting the fact that I’m retiring, and it’s really bizarre!"

She further opined, "I’m going to be 31 at the end of the year, and that’s around the time when people make that milestone! It’s like, give me a break! Let me retire and have a family in peace!"

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Since her retirement decision became official, Collins earned her first WTA 1000 title in Miami with an easy win over Elena Rybakina in the final. Further, she went on to defeat the likes of Ons Jabeur, Sloane Stephens and Maria Sakkari to clinch the Charleston Open title. In addition, the American continued her winning run in Madrid and earned 15 wins in a row before losing to eventual runner-up Aryna Sabalenka.

Thus, many people are not able to understand her retirement call at a time when Collins has everything going for her. Nonetheless, the star player -- who has a career-high WTA ranking of No. 7 in singles -- remains firm on her decision and also revealed her post-retirement plans.

In the same interaction, Collins mentioned, "I’ve always enjoyed running... I haven’t gotten to do as much of it because my training doesn’t typically include a lot of long-distance running. But I’m training for a marathon at the end of the year."

She added, "I’m not sure which marathon, but hopefully in November-December, when I finish up the season, I’ll have a couple of months just to focus on running."

At present, Collins is gearing up for the 2024 Italian Open, where she kicks off her campaign versus Russia's Anna Blinkova on Friday (May 10).&nbsp;

American tennis player Danielle Collins announced in January 2024 that she would retire after the end of the season. Since then, the 15th-ranked player has been in sensational form and ahead of the forthcoming Italian Open, which will be her last tournament in Rome, Collins spoke at length about her retirement and is shocked how people are not willing to accept her retirement call.

American tennis player Danielle Collins announced in January 2024 that she would retire after the end of the season. Since then, the 15th-ranked player has been in sensational form and ahead of the forthcoming Italian Open, which will be her last tournament in Rome, Collins spoke at length about her retirement and is shocked how people are not willing to accept her retirement call. 'IT IS REALLY BIZARRE' In a recent interview with Tennis TV, the 30-year-old Collins stated, "I think society and even the people who follow my life closely have had a difficult time accepting the fact that I’m retiring, and it’s really bizarre!" She further opined, "I’m going to be 31 at the end of the year, and that’s around the time when people make that milestone! It’s like, give me a break! Let me retire and have a family in peace!" Also read: Rafael Nadal 'hopes his body will allow' to play in French Open Since her retirement decision became official, Collins earned her first WTA 1000 title in Miami with an easy win over Elena Rybakina in the final. Further, she went on to defeat the likes of Ons Jabeur, Sloane Stephens and Maria Sakkari to clinch the Charleston Open title. In addition, the American continued her winning run in Madrid and earned 15 wins in a row before losing to eventual runner-up Aryna Sabalenka. Thus, many people are not able to understand her retirement call at a time when Collins has everything going for her. Nonetheless, the star player -- who has a career-high WTA ranking of No. 7 in singles -- remains firm on her decision and also revealed her post-retirement plans. In the same interaction, Collins mentioned, "I’ve always enjoyed running... I haven’t gotten to do as much of it because my training doesn’t typically include a lot of long-distance running. But I’m training for a marathon at the end of the year." She added, "I’m not sure which marathon, but hopefully in November-December, when I finish up the season, I’ll have a couple of months just to focus on running." At present, Collins is gearing up for the 2024 Italian Open, where she kicks off her campaign versus Russia's Anna Blinkova on Friday (May 10).

Let me have a family in peace: Danielle Collins surprised by 'bizarre' reactions on her retirement call

World number five Alexander Zverev said the newly expanded Masters tournaments that span 12 days give top players less opportunities to recharge their batteries as they spend more time away from home. Five of the nine Masters events, which are a level below the Grand Slams, are 12-day tournaments with 96-player draws. The ATP said in March that two more would go the same way from next year to enhance the experience for fans.

Both Madrid and Rome joined the list last year and Zverev, speaking ahead of the Italian Open, said it was not ideal playing back-to-back tournaments of that scale. "The two-week Masters 1000 events are great for players ranked between 50 and 100 in the world because they get a chance to play a main draw event," Zverev told reporters. "It's not great for top 10 players. It's as simple as that."

"Yes, you do get told you have a day in between, you don't have to play everyday. At the end of the day that's not resting. Resting is when you're spending time at home, sleeping in your own bed, maybe with your family, your dogs, your kids, right? "A day between matches, if you're at a different place, that's not resting. If you're going deep in events ... if you're trying to make the semi-finals or finals of every event, you're just away a lot longer and you have to work a lot more."

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Both world number two Jannik Sinner and number three Carlos Alcaraz will be absent from Rome due to injuries that have hit their preparations for the French Open, which starts on May 26.

Zverev said reducing the length of the season could help players avoid injury. "If we have an 11-month season, like we have now ... it's just simply not enough time. It's not enough time to rest your body. It's also not enough time to physically prepare your body," he added.&nbsp; "Physical preparation isn't how much you practice on court, how much you play. It's how much work you put in the gym, on the track, outside the court, that you can't do during the season."

World number five Alexander Zverev said the newly expanded Masters tournaments that span 12 days give top players less opportunities to recharge their batteries as they spend more time away from home.

World number five Alexander Zverev said the newly expanded Masters tournaments that span 12 days give top players less opportunities to recharge their batteries as they spend more time away from home. Five of the nine Masters events, which are a level below the Grand Slams, are 12-day tournaments with 96-player draws. The ATP said in March that two more would go the same way from next year to enhance the experience for fans. Both Madrid and Rome joined the list last year and Zverev, speaking ahead of the Italian Open, said it was not ideal playing back-to-back tournaments of that scale. "The two-week Masters 1000 events are great for players ranked between 50 and 100 in the world because they get a chance to play a main draw event," Zverev told reporters. "It's not great for top 10 players. It's as simple as that." "Yes, you do get told you have a day in between, you don't have to play everyday. At the end of the day that's not resting. Resting is when you're spending time at home, sleeping in your own bed, maybe with your family, your dogs, your kids, right? "A day between matches, if you're at a different place, that's not resting. If you're going deep in events ... if you're trying to make the semi-finals or finals of every event, you're just away a lot longer and you have to work a lot more." Also read: F1: Wait, what? Christian Horner reveals Red Bull has poached 220 Mercedes HPP employees Both world number two Jannik Sinner and number three Carlos Alcaraz will be absent from Rome due to injuries that have hit their preparations for the French Open, which starts on May 26. Zverev said reducing the length of the season could help players avoid injury. "If we have an 11-month season, like we have now ... it's just simply not enough time. It's not enough time to rest your body. It's also not enough time to physically prepare your body," he added. "Physical preparation isn't how much you practice on court, how much you play. It's how much work you put in the gym, on the track, outside the court, that you can't do during the season."

German star Alexander Zverev says expanded Masters events not great for top-ranked players

Andrey Rublev won the Madrid Open with a hard-fought 4-6, 7-5, 7-5 victory over Felix Auger-Aliassime on Sunday to secure his second title of the year, despite battling with illness.

The Russian world number eight said he was "almost dead every day" and could barely sleep this week after securing a career second Masters 1000 victory.

Rublev had lost four consecutive matches before arriving in the Spanish capital but came from a set down to beat his Canadian opponent.

The 26-year-old triumphed at the Hong Kong Open in January but struggled since before turning around his form in Madrid, dropping just one set on the way to what proved a tense final.

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"I think it was an incredible match, Felix deserved (in) the same way as me to win today and we showed a great battle together, I think the most important thing was that the people enjoyed it," said Rublev on court. "Our sport is like this, we cannot have both winners."

Rublev, who takes the Madrid crown from double champion Carlos Alcaraz whom he beat in the quarter-finals, said he had played despite feeling ill at times this week and hailed his doctors for helping him through.

"If you knew what I had been through in the past nine days you would not imagine that I would be able to win a title," he added. "I was almost dead every day, I was not sleeping at night -- the last three, four days I didn't sleep."

Auger-Aliassime reached the final after his opponent Jiri Lehecka retired hurt in the semi-finals and quarter-final opponent Jannik Sinner withdrew with a hip injury, with the ATP draw at the clay-court tournament struck by misfortune.

However the 23-year-old Canadian, ranked 35th in the world, gave everything he had in his first Masters 1000 final appearance.

<h2>- Tense battle -</h2>

Auger-Aliassime started superbly by breaking to love in the first game and then again in the fifth game for a 4-1 lead.

Rublev recovered a break when Auger-Aliassime went long, and consolidated for a 4-3 deficit.

The Russian saved a set point to hold for 5-4 down but Auger-Aliassime clinched it at the second opportunity with a forehand down the line.

In the second set the Canadian held for 3-3 with a brilliant drop shot after Rublev spurned a break point.

They stayed on serve until the 12th game when Rublev brought up two set points, converting the second to take it to a deciding third set.

Rublev raced through his service games and put heavy pressure on his opponent's serve, forcing a break point in the second game and two more in the fourth, none of which he could take.

Auger-Aliassime produced huge serves to fight his way out of tough spots, racking up 14 aces in the match to Rublev's seven.

However Rublev dropped just three points on his serve in the third set, while Auger-Aliassime trailed in all of his service games but always battled back, until the decisive 12th game.

Auger-Aliassime double-faulted to hand Rublev the title, with the Russian falling to the floor in delight.

Andrey Rublev won the Madrid Open with a hard-fought 4-6, 7-5, 7-5 victory over Felix Auger-Aliassime on Sunday to secure his second title of the year, despite battling with illness.

Andrey Rublev won the Madrid Open with a hard-fought 4-6, 7-5, 7-5 victory over Felix Auger-Aliassime on Sunday to secure his second title of the year, despite battling with illness. The Russian world number eight said he was "almost dead every day" and could barely sleep this week after securing a career second Masters 1000 victory. Rublev had lost four consecutive matches before arriving in the Spanish capital but came from a set down to beat his Canadian opponent. The 26-year-old triumphed at the Hong Kong Open in January but struggled since before turning around his form in Madrid, dropping just one set on the way to what proved a tense final. ALSO READ: Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr. takes DIG at Barcelona defender after winning LaLiga title "I think it was an incredible match, Felix deserved (in) the same way as me to win today and we showed a great battle together, I think the most important thing was that the people enjoyed it," said Rublev on court. "Our sport is like this, we cannot have both winners." Rublev, who takes the Madrid crown from double champion Carlos Alcaraz whom he beat in the quarter-finals, said he had played despite feeling ill at times this week and hailed his doctors for helping him through. "If you knew what I had been through in the past nine days you would not imagine that I would be able to win a title," he added. "I was almost dead every day, I was not sleeping at night -- the last three, four days I didn't sleep." Auger-Aliassime reached the final after his opponent Jiri Lehecka retired hurt in the semi-finals and quarter-final opponent Jannik Sinner withdrew with a hip injury, with the ATP draw at the clay-court tournament struck by misfortune. However the 23-year-old Canadian, ranked 35th in the world, gave everything he had in his first Masters 1000 final appearance. - Tense battle - Auger-Aliassime started superbly by breaking to love in the first game and then again in the fifth game for a 4-1 lead. Rublev recovered a break when Auger-Aliassime went long, and consolidated for a 4-3 deficit. The Russian saved a set point to hold for 5-4 down but Auger-Aliassime clinched it at the second opportunity with a forehand down the line. In the second set the Canadian held for 3-3 with a brilliant drop shot after Rublev spurned a break point. They stayed on serve until the 12th game when Rublev brought up two set points, converting the second to take it to a deciding third set. Rublev raced through his service games and put heavy pressure on his opponent's serve, forcing a break point in the second game and two more in the fourth, none of which he could take. Auger-Aliassime produced huge serves to fight his way out of tough spots, racking up 14 aces in the match to Rublev's seven. However Rublev dropped just three points on his serve in the third set, while Auger-Aliassime trailed in all of his service games but always battled back, until the decisive 12th game. Auger-Aliassime double-faulted to hand Rublev the title, with the Russian falling to the floor in delight.

Tennis: Andrey Rublev battles ‘serious illness’ to win Madrid Open title

Former player Andy Roddick has questioned Rafael Nadal's doubts over his participation at the 2024 French Open, which kicks off later this month.&nbsp;This year's French Open is likely to be Nadal's final appearance at the clay court major, the 14-time Roland Garros champion has remained tight lipped on his participation in the second Grand Slam of the year, even stating that the 'world does not end with Roland Garros'.

Amid all this, Roddick recently shared his take on Nadal's uncertainty, remaining sceptical about the possibility of the former world number one skipping the French Open and highlighting his tendency to 'underpromise and overdeliver'.

Speaking on the Served with Andy Roddick' podcast, "At the beginning of the tournament he said, ‘if I feel the way that I feel physically right now with confidence, not knowing what I have, I don’t know if I’ll play Roland Garros.’ I tend to not believe that. I think he’s the master of under promising and over delivering."

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He further opined, "During his prime, he’d be going into like the first round of Roland Garros against someone ranked like 70 in the world and be like, 'I don’t know it could go either way." Roddick added, "I used to not really believe that, I’d go like full Davenport violent eye roll when he would say it but then I honestly think he just works from a place of this could go wrong, I’m going to hustle my way to make it not so and give my best effort."

Nadal underwent a hip surgery in 2023 and missed most of the season, including the French Open. Back then, he indicated that 2024 can be his last season. He missed the Australian Open and has played just a few competitions, including the Barcelona and Madrid Open, is running against time to regain full fitness for the Roland Garros, which kicks off on May 20. He has earned direct entry into the French Open main draw via protected rankings.

Former player Andy Roddick has questioned Rafael Nadal's doubts over his participation at the 2024 French Open, which kicks off later this month. This year's French Open is likely to be Nadal's final appearance at the clay court major, the 14-time Roland Garros champion has remained tight lipped on his participation in the second Grand Slam of the year, even stating that the 'world does not end with Roland Garros'.

Former player Andy Roddick has questioned Rafael Nadal's doubts over his participation at the 2024 French Open, which kicks off later this month. This year's French Open is likely to be Nadal's final appearance at the clay court major, the 14-time Roland Garros champion has remained tight lipped on his participation in the second Grand Slam of the year, even stating that the 'world does not end with Roland Garros'. Amid all this, Roddick recently shared his take on Nadal's uncertainty, remaining sceptical about the possibility of the former world number one skipping the French Open and highlighting his tendency to 'underpromise and overdeliver'. Speaking on the Served with Andy Roddick' podcast, "At the beginning of the tournament he said, ‘if I feel the way that I feel physically right now with confidence, not knowing what I have, I don’t know if I’ll play Roland Garros.’ I tend to not believe that. I think he’s the master of under promising and over delivering." Also read: Tennis: Andrey Rublev battles ‘serious illness’ to win Madrid Open title He further opined, "During his prime, he’d be going into like the first round of Roland Garros against someone ranked like 70 in the world and be like, 'I don’t know it could go either way." Roddick added, "I used to not really believe that, I’d go like full Davenport violent eye roll when he would say it but then I honestly think he just works from a place of this could go wrong, I’m going to hustle my way to make it not so and give my best effort." Nadal underwent a hip surgery in 2023 and missed most of the season, including the French Open. Back then, he indicated that 2024 can be his last season. He missed the Australian Open and has played just a few competitions, including the Barcelona and Madrid Open, is running against time to regain full fitness for the Roland Garros, which kicks off on May 20. He has earned direct entry into the French Open main draw via protected rankings.

‘He’s master of underpromising & overdelivering’: Roddick on Nadal’s doubts about French Open participation

World number one Iga Swiatek edged Aryna Sabalenka 7-5 4-6 7-6(7) in a gripping and gruelling Madrid Open final to win the title for the first time on Saturday in what was a repeat of last year's summit clash at the WTA 1000 claycourt tournament.

Sabalenka had won the 2023 final in three sets but it was Swiatek who triumphed this time after saving three championship points to secure her 20th career title and deny the Belarusian a third title on the red clay of the Spanish capital.

The match was the first contest of the season between the top two in the women's rankings and it lived up to expectations, going down as the longest encounter between the two Grand Slam champions at three hours and 11 minutes.

Victory improved Swiatek's record over her Belarusian rival to 7-3 as the three-time&nbsp;French Open champion bagged the only major claycourt title that was missing on her glittering resume.

"Aryna, to many more finals! It's always a challenge playing you. Thanks for always motivating me and forcing me to be a better player," Swiatek said at the trophy presentation.

In the opening set, Sabalenka used her powerful forehand to great effect, firing winners past Swiatek that had the crowd roaring their approval, but the Belarusian struggled to convert break points against the world number one.

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In response, Swiatek was more measured in her approach to constructing points and made the decisive break at 5-5 before serving out the set, clinching it when Sabalenka's return popped up off the netcord and set up an easy winner for the Pole.

Sabalenka raised her intensity in the second set and took a 2-0 lead and nearly went 3-0 up but her first double fault of the match opened the door for Swiatek to get on the board before she broke again to put the set back on serve.

But this time, at 5-4, Sabalenka did not lose her focus as the Belarusian smashed a forehand winner down the line to force a decider and go the distance for the fifth time in six matches at the tournament.

Although the top seeds traded breaks in the final set, there was little to separate the pair until Sabalenka had match points.

However, Swiatek held her nerve when she served to stay in the contest, saving two match points en route to forcing the tiebreak.

Swiatek also had a match point snatched away from her before she clinched victory on her second opportunity when Sabalenka's return went long and the Pole fell to the ground in relief and exhaustion.

"I tried to make this match as long as possible... Hopefully next year it goes to me," Sabalenka said. "Three hours, that's a long one! Hopefully we recover fast for the next tournament."

World number one Iga Swiatek edged Aryna Sabalenka 7-5 4-6 7-6(7) in a gripping and gruelling Madrid Open final to win the title for the first time on Saturday in what was a repeat of last year's summit clash at the WTA 1000 claycourt tournament.

World number one Iga Swiatek edged Aryna Sabalenka 7-5 4-6 7-6(7) in a gripping and gruelling Madrid Open final to win the title for the first time on Saturday in what was a repeat of last year's summit clash at the WTA 1000 claycourt tournament. Sabalenka had won the 2023 final in three sets but it was Swiatek who triumphed this time after saving three championship points to secure her 20th career title and deny the Belarusian a third title on the red clay of the Spanish capital. The match was the first contest of the season between the top two in the women's rankings and it lived up to expectations, going down as the longest encounter between the two Grand Slam champions at three hours and 11 minutes. Victory improved Swiatek's record over her Belarusian rival to 7-3 as the three-time French Open champion bagged the only major claycourt title that was missing on her glittering resume. "Aryna, to many more finals! It's always a challenge playing you. Thanks for always motivating me and forcing me to be a better player," Swiatek said at the trophy presentation. In the opening set, Sabalenka used her powerful forehand to great effect, firing winners past Swiatek that had the crowd roaring their approval, but the Belarusian struggled to convert break points against the world number one. ALSO READ: Tennis: Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner withdraws from Italian Open due to injury In response, Swiatek was more measured in her approach to constructing points and made the decisive break at 5-5 before serving out the set, clinching it when Sabalenka's return popped up off the netcord and set up an easy winner for the Pole. Sabalenka raised her intensity in the second set and took a 2-0 lead and nearly went 3-0 up but her first double fault of the match opened the door for Swiatek to get on the board before she broke again to put the set back on serve. But this time, at 5-4, Sabalenka did not lose her focus as the Belarusian smashed a forehand winner down the line to force a decider and go the distance for the fifth time in six matches at the tournament. Although the top seeds traded breaks in the final set, there was little to separate the pair until Sabalenka had match points. However, Swiatek held her nerve when she served to stay in the contest, saving two match points en route to forcing the tiebreak. Swiatek also had a match point snatched away from her before she clinched victory on her second opportunity when Sabalenka's return went long and the Pole fell to the ground in relief and exhaustion. "I tried to make this match as long as possible... Hopefully next year it goes to me," Sabalenka said. "Three hours, that's a long one! Hopefully we recover fast for the next tournament."

Tennis: Top seed Iga Swiatek wins maiden Madrid Open title with gritty win over Aryna Sabalenka

Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner announced Saturday he will not play at the upcoming Italian Open due to a hip injury which forced him out in Madrid earlier this week.

Italian Sinner was a doubt for the Rome event which starts on Wednesday and is the last big tournament before the Grand Slam French Open.

"After speaking again with the doctors and specialists about my hip problems I have to announce that unfortunately I will not be able to play in Rome," the world number two said on X, formerly Twitter.

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"I'm very sad that I wasn't able to recover as it is one of my favourite tournaments."

The 22-year-old would have been one of the favourites for the Masters 1000 tournament in the Italian capital after winning the Australian Open, his first Slam title, at the start of the year and following that up and his second Masters 1000 crown in Miami in March.

Sinner, who holds a 28-2 record on the season, was due to face Felix Auger-Aliassime in the Madrid quarter-finals on Thursday but revealed he had been battling through a hip issue in the Spanish capital.

Sinner joins world number three Carlos Alcaraz in withdrawing from the clay court event in Rome after the Spaniard succumbed to a right forearm injury that sidelined him in Monte Carlo and Barcelona.

The pair will now try to recover in time for an assault on the French Open, the season's second major, which starts in Paris on May 26.

Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner announced Saturday he will not play at the upcoming Italian Open due to a hip injury which forced him out in Madrid earlier this week.

Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner announced Saturday he will not play at the upcoming Italian Open due to a hip injury which forced him out in Madrid earlier this week. Italian Sinner was a doubt for the Rome event which starts on Wednesday and is the last big tournament before the Grand Slam French Open. "After speaking again with the doctors and specialists about my hip problems I have to announce that unfortunately I will not be able to play in Rome," the world number two said on X, formerly Twitter. Also Read: Lakers fire head coach Darvin Ham after loss in playoffs to Denver Nuggets "I'm very sad that I wasn't able to recover as it is one of my favourite tournaments." The 22-year-old would have been one of the favourites for the Masters 1000 tournament in the Italian capital after winning the Australian Open, his first Slam title, at the start of the year and following that up and his second Masters 1000 crown in Miami in March. Sinner, who holds a 28-2 record on the season, was due to face Felix Auger-Aliassime in the Madrid quarter-finals on Thursday but revealed he had been battling through a hip issue in the Spanish capital. Sinner joins world number three Carlos Alcaraz in withdrawing from the clay court event in Rome after the Spaniard succumbed to a right forearm injury that sidelined him in Monte Carlo and Barcelona. The pair will now try to recover in time for an assault on the French Open, the season's second major, which starts in Paris on May 26.

Tennis: Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner withdraws from Italian Open due to injury

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

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

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

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

Third seed Daniil Medvedev retired injured from his Madrid Open quarter-final clash with Jiri Lehecka on Thursday, a day after Jannik Sinner was forced to withdraw from the clay-court tournament.

Earlier women's world number one Iga Swiatek cruised through to a second consecutive Madrid Open final with a 6-1, 6-3 victory over Madison Keys.

Russia's Medvedev needed a medical time-out early in the last eight match and struggled through to the end of the first set with an apparent upper thigh problem, losing it 6-4 before retiring.

Czech Lehecka progressed to his first Masters 1000 semi-final, where he will face Felix Auger Aliassime, who received a walkover after top seed Sinner withdrew Wednesday with a hip problem.

"It's never easy in a match like this," said Lehecka. "If I were to choose the way how to win this match, it wouldn't be like that.

"It's never easy to see your opponent struggling, but at that moment, you just need to focus on yourself, trying to get the maximum level out of yourself."

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Medvedev took an off-court medical timeout after the fifth game, all holds of serve, and when he returned clearly had problems moving freely around the court.

The world number four saved two break points to hold for a 4-3 lead as Lehecka floundered, laughing to himself at his fortune in winning the seventh game despite playing through obvious pain.

The Czech, who knocked-out Rafael Nadal on Wednesday, settled down and capitalised on Medvedev's woes to break in the ninth game for a 5-4 lead, serving it out as his opponent went long.

Medvedev won just four of the last 16 points before deciding to call it a night, with fans left disappointed. The other men's quarter-final set for Thursday had been cancelled after Sinner's withdrawal.

The 28-year-old Medvedev is the defending champion at the Italian Open, which starts next week, while the French Open, the season's second Grand Slam event, gets underway in just over three weeks' time.

Taylor Fritz will face Andrey Rublev in the other semi-final on Friday, after the Russian ousted home favourite Carlos Alcaraz on Wednesday.

<h2>- Superb Swiatek -</h2>

Dominant on clay, Swiatek barely put a foot wrong against Keys, making just eight unforced errors in the match to leave the 29-year-old American with virtually no chance.

"I'm really happy that I had such a solid game today," Swiatek said on court after reaching her 11th WTA 1000 final.

"Madison is an amazing player with a really fast game and a big serve, so I wanted to focus on myself and I'm happy I was focussed."

The top seed, triumphant at Doha and Indian Wells, started in unforgiving form.

Swiatek broke to love in the second game and dropped just three of the first 17 points.

Keys, seeded 18th, battled back to hold from 0-30 down for a 3-1 deficit, fighting to stay in the set.

However last year's Madrid runner-up broke again for a 5-1 lead and served it out to wrap up the first set in 31 minutes.

The clinical Swiatek broke for a 2-1 lead in the second set with a superb passing shot and never relinquished her advantage, even though Keys was more competitive.

The 22-year-old four-time Grand Slam winner broke once more to seal her victory when world number 20 Keys went long.

Later reigning champion and second seed Aryna Sabalenka faces Elena Rybakina in the second semi-final, ahead of Saturday's showdown with Swiatek.

Third seed Daniil Medvedev retired injured from his Madrid Open quarter-final clash with Jiri Lehecka on Thursday, a day after Jannik Sinner was forced to withdraw from the clay-court tournament.

Third seed Daniil Medvedev retired injured from his Madrid Open quarter-final clash with Jiri Lehecka on Thursday, a day after Jannik Sinner was forced to withdraw from the clay-court tournament. Earlier women's world number one Iga Swiatek cruised through to a second consecutive Madrid Open final with a 6-1, 6-3 victory over Madison Keys. Russia's Medvedev needed a medical time-out early in the last eight match and struggled through to the end of the first set with an apparent upper thigh problem, losing it 6-4 before retiring. Czech Lehecka progressed to his first Masters 1000 semi-final, where he will face Felix Auger Aliassime, who received a walkover after top seed Sinner withdrew Wednesday with a hip problem. "It's never easy in a match like this," said Lehecka. "If I were to choose the way how to win this match, it wouldn't be like that. "It's never easy to see your opponent struggling, but at that moment, you just need to focus on yourself, trying to get the maximum level out of yourself." ALSO READ: USA’s Kelley O'Hara - two-time women’s World Cup winner and Olympic gold medalist, announces retirement Medvedev took an off-court medical timeout after the fifth game, all holds of serve, and when he returned clearly had problems moving freely around the court. The world number four saved two break points to hold for a 4-3 lead as Lehecka floundered, laughing to himself at his fortune in winning the seventh game despite playing through obvious pain. The Czech, who knocked-out Rafael Nadal on Wednesday, settled down and capitalised on Medvedev's woes to break in the ninth game for a 5-4 lead, serving it out as his opponent went long. Medvedev won just four of the last 16 points before deciding to call it a night, with fans left disappointed. The other men's quarter-final set for Thursday had been cancelled after Sinner's withdrawal. The 28-year-old Medvedev is the defending champion at the Italian Open, which starts next week, while the French Open, the season's second Grand Slam event, gets underway in just over three weeks' time. Taylor Fritz will face Andrey Rublev in the other semi-final on Friday, after the Russian ousted home favourite Carlos Alcaraz on Wednesday. - Superb Swiatek - Dominant on clay, Swiatek barely put a foot wrong against Keys, making just eight unforced errors in the match to leave the 29-year-old American with virtually no chance. "I'm really happy that I had such a solid game today," Swiatek said on court after reaching her 11th WTA 1000 final. "Madison is an amazing player with a really fast game and a big serve, so I wanted to focus on myself and I'm happy I was focussed." The top seed, triumphant at Doha and Indian Wells, started in unforgiving form. Swiatek broke to love in the second game and dropped just three of the first 17 points. Keys, seeded 18th, battled back to hold from 0-30 down for a 3-1 deficit, fighting to stay in the set. However last year's Madrid runner-up broke again for a 5-1 lead and served it out to wrap up the first set in 31 minutes. The clinical Swiatek broke for a 2-1 lead in the second set with a superb passing shot and never relinquished her advantage, even though Keys was more competitive. The 22-year-old four-time Grand Slam winner broke once more to seal her victory when world number 20 Keys went long. Later reigning champion and second seed Aryna Sabalenka faces Elena Rybakina in the second semi-final, ahead of Saturday's showdown with Swiatek.

Madrid Open: Medvedev retires injured as top seed Iga Swiatek reaches consecutive final

World number three Carlos Alcaraz on Friday withdrew from next week's ATP Italian Open due to a right forearm injury that sidelined him in Monte Carlo and Barcelona.

The blow comes weeks away from the second Grand Slam of the season, the French Open.&nbsp;

"I felt some pain after playing in Madrid (he lost on Wednesday), some discomfort in my arm," the Spaniard wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

"Unfortunately, I will not be able to play in Rome. I need to rest so I can recover and play 100 percent pain free."

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On Wednesday, Alcaraz saw his title defence and 14-match winning streak in Madrid come to an with a 4-6, 6-3, 6-2 defeat at the hands of Andrey Rublev in the quarter-finals.

The French Open, the sole Grand Slam on clay, gets underway on May 26. Alcaraz reached last year's semi-finals.&nbsp;

The two-time Grand Slam champion, who won the US Open in 2022 and Wimbledon last year, turns 21 on Sunday.&nbsp;

World number three Carlos Alcaraz on Friday withdrew from next week's ATP Italian Open due to a right forearm injury that sidelined him in Monte Carlo and Barcelona.

World number three Carlos Alcaraz on Friday withdrew from next week's ATP Italian Open due to a right forearm injury that sidelined him in Monte Carlo and Barcelona. The blow comes weeks away from the second Grand Slam of the season, the French Open. "I felt some pain after playing in Madrid (he lost on Wednesday), some discomfort in my arm," the Spaniard wrote on X, formerly Twitter. "Unfortunately, I will not be able to play in Rome. I need to rest so I can recover and play 100 percent pain free." ALSO READ | IPL 2024: Rohit meets Rinku ahead of MI-KKR tie at Wankhede as Tom Moody calls it ‘great leadership’ On Wednesday, Alcaraz saw his title defence and 14-match winning streak in Madrid come to an with a 4-6, 6-3, 6-2 defeat at the hands of Andrey Rublev in the quarter-finals. The French Open, the sole Grand Slam on clay, gets underway on May 26. Alcaraz reached last year's semi-finals. The two-time Grand Slam champion, who won the US Open in 2022 and Wimbledon last year, turns 21 on Sunday.

Tennis: Carlos Alcaraz withdraws from ATP Italian Open with arm injury

Carlos Alcaraz's hopes of becoming the first player to win three-straight Madrid Open titles came undone as the second seed fell to a 4-6 6-3 6-2 loss in front of his home crowd to Russian seventh seed Andrey Rublev in the quarter-finals on Wednesday.

The 20-year-old two-times grand slam champion was not at his best despite taking the opening set in 41 minutes, while Rublev put in a dominant performance to roar back and snap Alcaraz's 14-match winning streak at the ATP Masters 1000 tournament. It will be Rublev's first semi-final in Madrid. The 26-year-old was on a four-match losing streak coming into the claycourt event.

"Maybe this week is a relief but then next week we go back to the same... so better not to think this way because when you start to think 'Oh, how good everything is' that's what happened at the beginning of the season," Rublev said.

"Then, for six weeks, I wasn't winning anything. It's better to not think at all. It's not bad, it's not good. It's just a moment. It happens to everyone, every player has been through these moments. "The most important thing is to keep working and improving and then remember that one week can change anything."

Rublev completely outplayed Alcaraz in the deciding set, racing to a 4-1 lead before he wrapped up his comeback. Rublev will face American Taylor Fritz in Friday's semi-final after the 12th seed battled past Argentina's Francisco Cerundolo 6-1 3-6 6-3.

Alcaraz was the last Spaniard standing after 22-times Grand Slam winner Rafa Nadal exited the tournament following a straight sets defeat to the Czech Republic's 31st-ranked Jiri Lehecka in the round of 16 on Tuesday.

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Having successfully defended his Indian Wells title in March and then reached the Miami Open quarter-finals, Alcaraz injured his right forearm during a practice session in Monaco and he continues to struggle with the problem that has derailed the start of his claycourt season.

"I have to keep working to recover my normal forehand without thinking about my forearm. Today I thought about it more than yesterday," Alcaraz told reporters. "I think that in Rome, I will continue to play with it (an arm sleeve) as a precaution.

"The balance is positive, but when I go out on court I don't want to lose. If we look at the overall it has been a very good week."

SINNER WITHDRAWS

Italian top seed Jannik Sinner, who was due to face Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime in the Madrid Open quarter-finals on Thursday, has pulled out from the tournament with a hip injury.

"Very sad to have to withdraw from my next match here in Madrid," Sinner said on social media platform X. "My hip has been bothering me this week and has slowly been getting more painful. "Taking the advice from the doctors we decided it's best to not play further and make it worse."

Carlos Alcaraz's hopes of becoming the first player to win three-straight Madrid Open titles came undone as the second seed fell to a 4-6 6-3 6-2 loss in front of his home crowd to Russian seventh seed Andrey Rublev in the quarter-finals on Wednesday.

Carlos Alcaraz's hopes of becoming the first player to win three-straight Madrid Open titles came undone as the second seed fell to a 4-6 6-3 6-2 loss in front of his home crowd to Russian seventh seed Andrey Rublev in the quarter-finals on Wednesday. The 20-year-old two-times grand slam champion was not at his best despite taking the opening set in 41 minutes, while Rublev put in a dominant performance to roar back and snap Alcaraz's 14-match winning streak at the ATP Masters 1000 tournament. It will be Rublev's first semi-final in Madrid. The 26-year-old was on a four-match losing streak coming into the claycourt event. "Maybe this week is a relief but then next week we go back to the same... so better not to think this way because when you start to think 'Oh, how good everything is' that's what happened at the beginning of the season," Rublev said. "Then, for six weeks, I wasn't winning anything. It's better to not think at all. It's not bad, it's not good. It's just a moment. It happens to everyone, every player has been through these moments. "The most important thing is to keep working and improving and then remember that one week can change anything." Rublev completely outplayed Alcaraz in the deciding set, racing to a 4-1 lead before he wrapped up his comeback. Rublev will face American Taylor Fritz in Friday's semi-final after the 12th seed battled past Argentina's Francisco Cerundolo 6-1 3-6 6-3. Alcaraz was the last Spaniard standing after 22-times Grand Slam winner Rafa Nadal exited the tournament following a straight sets defeat to the Czech Republic's 31st-ranked Jiri Lehecka in the round of 16 on Tuesday. Also read: Rafael Nadal gets emotional after Madrid Open defeat to Jiri Lehecka - WATCH Having successfully defended his Indian Wells title in March and then reached the Miami Open quarter-finals, Alcaraz injured his right forearm during a practice session in Monaco and he continues to struggle with the problem that has derailed the start of his claycourt season. "I have to keep working to recover my normal forehand without thinking about my forearm. Today I thought about it more than yesterday," Alcaraz told reporters. "I think that in Rome, I will continue to play with it (an arm sleeve) as a precaution. "The balance is positive, but when I go out on court I don't want to lose. If we look at the overall it has been a very good week." SINNER WITHDRAWS Italian top seed Jannik Sinner, who was due to face Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime in the Madrid Open quarter-finals on Thursday, has pulled out from the tournament with a hip injury. "Very sad to have to withdraw from my next match here in Madrid," Sinner said on social media platform X. "My hip has been bothering me this week and has slowly been getting more painful. "Taking the advice from the doctors we decided it's best to not play further and make it worse."

Tennis: Flawless Andrey Rublev knocks out champion Carlos Alcaraz to move into Madrid semis

Former World No.1 and 22-time Grand Slam&nbsp;champion Rafael Nadal was seen emotional on Tuesday (April 30) evening after he&nbsp;was knocked&nbsp;out of the Madrid Open in his probable farewell tour. Nadal, likely to be playing in his final season on the ATP&nbsp;tour, was knocked out&nbsp;by Jiri Lehecka in the Madrid Open.&nbsp;The home favourite was beaten&nbsp;7-5, 6-4 in his final outing as banners of&nbsp;‘Thank You Nadal’&nbsp;graced the centre court. Lehecka&nbsp;will face Daniil Medvedev of Russia in the quarterfinal.&nbsp;

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"This is a joke, next year I'm coming back!" 
 
Never change, Rafael Nadal 🥺🤣<a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MMOPEN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MMOPEN</a> <a href="https://t.co/yWRkXdMouQ">pic.twitter.com/yWRkXdMouQ</a>
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<h2>Nadal bids farewell</h2>

After the defeat, a video of Nadal went viral as he&nbsp;was seen&nbsp;thanking the crowd while walking out of the court. The Spaniard has been struggling with injuries lately and has not participated in a Grand Slam tournament since 2023. His injury issues forced him to miss out on the Australian Open, Wimbledon, US Open and his beloved French Open.&nbsp;

"I'm&nbsp;happy. It was&nbsp;a very special&nbsp;week for me,&nbsp;very positive and very&nbsp;emotional. I had the opportunity to play one more time here on this court,"&nbsp;said Nadal on court.

In his illustrious tennis career, the 14-time French Open champion won five titles in Madrid and has 59 wins, the&nbsp;most by any player. He turns 38 in June and is already running out of legs due to persistent injury issues.&nbsp;

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A special ceremony was held at Manolo Santana Stadium after the match, with banners suspended above the stands with the words&nbsp;"Gracias&nbsp;Rafa", signifying the years in which he won the Madrid tournament.

"It has been a gift what&nbsp;you've&nbsp;given me here. The emotion&nbsp;that I&nbsp;get from this experience in Madrid, from the Spanish public…&nbsp;I was lucky as a kid to do the job that I love. I feel super fortunate to have lived the life that&nbsp;I've&nbsp;lived. I&nbsp;couldn't&nbsp;ask for anything more,”&nbsp;an emotional Nadal added.&nbsp;

With the French Open starting at the end of the month,&nbsp;everyone’s&nbsp;eyes will be on the tournament&nbsp;with&nbsp;Nadal unlikely to be seeded.&nbsp;

Former World No.1 and 22-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal was seen emotional on Tuesday (April 30) evening after he was knocked out of the Madrid Open in his probable farewell tour.

Former World No.1 and 22-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal was seen emotional on Tuesday (April 30) evening after he was knocked out of the Madrid Open in his probable farewell tour. Nadal, likely to be playing in his final season on the ATP tour, was knocked out by Jiri Lehecka in the Madrid Open. The home favourite was beaten 7-5, 6-4 in his final outing as banners of ‘Thank You Nadal’ graced the centre court. Lehecka will face Daniil Medvedev of Russia in the quarterfinal. "This is a joke, next year I'm coming back!" Never change, Rafael Nadal 🥺🤣@RafaelNadal #MMOPEN pic.twitter.com/yWRkXdMouQ — Tennis TV (@TennisTV) April 30, 2024 × Nadal bids farewell After the defeat, a video of Nadal went viral as he was seen thanking the crowd while walking out of the court. The Spaniard has been struggling with injuries lately and has not participated in a Grand Slam tournament since 2023. His injury issues forced him to miss out on the Australian Open, Wimbledon, US Open and his beloved French Open. "I'm happy. It was a very special week for me, very positive and very emotional. I had the opportunity to play one more time here on this court," said Nadal on court. In his illustrious tennis career, the 14-time French Open champion won five titles in Madrid and has 59 wins, the most by any player. He turns 38 in June and is already running out of legs due to persistent injury issues. ALSO READ | Spain appoints former national coach Vicente del Bosque to supervise soccer federation A special ceremony was held at Manolo Santana Stadium after the match, with banners suspended above the stands with the words "Gracias Rafa", signifying the years in which he won the Madrid tournament. "It has been a gift what you've given me here. The emotion that I get from this experience in Madrid, from the Spanish public… I was lucky as a kid to do the job that I love. I feel super fortunate to have lived the life that I've lived. I couldn't ask for anything more,” an emotional Nadal added. With the French Open starting at the end of the month, everyone’s eyes will be on the tournament with Nadal unlikely to be seeded.

Rafael Nadal gets emotional after Madrid Open defeat to Jiri Lehecka - WATCH

Rafael Nadal said he is doing his best to "keep dreaming" after he extended his stay at the Madrid Open by winning a three-hour tussle with Argentina's Pedro Cachin 6-1, 6-7 (5/7), 6-3 on Monday.

Contesting his home tournament one last time before retirement, the five-time champion gave the world number 91 his shirt after Cachin asked him for a memento from the match.

"Some moments good, some moments not good. I found a way to be through. I think in the third set with some mistakes I was still able to be a bit unpredictable," Nadal said of his roller-coaster third-round victory.

"Now I'm enjoying. Let's see how I wake up tomorrow. Playing at home means everything to me, just try my best to keep dreaming."

Nadal's reward is a Tuesday last-16 clash with the 30th-seeded Jiri Lehecka, who beat the Mallorcan in a practice session a week ago.

The 37-year-old has been dealing with physical issues, which have limited him to &nbsp;eight matches this season.

Asked if it would surprise him if he managed to beat Lehecka on Tuesday, Nadal said: "Yes, more so after today's match. I will face a player who is playing at a very high level, who has a very powerful serve."

While Nadal has already beaten a higher-ranked opponent this week -- number 11 Alex de Minaur -- he believes the quality of Lehecka's ball "is another step up".

Top-seeded Jannik Sinner beat world number 72 Pavel Kotov 6-2, 7-5.

Kazakhstan's Alexander Bublik beat American Ben Shelton 3-6, 7-6 (7/2), 6-4 &nbsp;to reach the fourth round, where he will face number three seed Daniil Medvedev.

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Ons Jabeur called out organisers of European tournaments for giving men preferential treatment at combined events and said "they need to respect women more."

Jabeur, the 2022 champion in Madrid, was speaking after dismissing ninth-seeded Jelena Ostapenko 6-0, 6-4 to set up a last-eight clash with Madison Keys.

"I feel like we have a long way to go, especially here in Madrid and in Rome, in Europe in general," she said.

Jabeur said women players were not given the same access to practice courts and were on television less.

"The way they treat women here and men, they're completely different," she added.

"Here in Spain, I would love to go to the hotel and open the TV and see a woman's tennis match. &nbsp;

"How can you inspire young girls without showing any matches?"

Top-seeded Iga Swiatek dropped the opening game before sweeping the next 12 to against home favourite Sara Sorribes Tormo 6-1, 6-0 and advance to a quarter-final meeting with Brazilian lefty Beatriz Haddad Maia.

Keys won an all-American battle, knocking out third-seeded Coco Gauff 7-6 (7/4), 4-6, 6-4 to reach the last-eight in Madrid for the first time.

The 29-year-old missed the start of the season with a shoulder injury, which sidelined her for four months.

Gauff, who was broken seven times and hit 13 doubles faults, lamented her serving.

"Not holding serve honestly is what cost me the match," said the reigning US Open champion. &nbsp;

"My serve is evolving and there's a lot of minor changes being made," she said. "When it's on, it's definitely a weapon and I guess it's just making it more consistent."

Also through to the quarter-finals is Mirra Andreeva, who celebrated her 17th birthday with a 7-6 (7/2), 6-4 win over Italian 12th seed Jasmine Paolini, a year on from her dream run to the Madrid fourth round on her WTA debut.

The Russian teenager fell to eventual champion Aryna Sabalenka at the Caja Magica 12 months ago &nbsp;but will get a rematch with the Belarusian world number two, who outlasted &nbsp;American Danielle Collins 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 in Monday's last match.

Rafael Nadal said he is doing his best to "keep dreaming" after he extended his stay at the Madrid Open by winning a three-hour tussle with Argentina's Pedro Cachin 6-1, 6-7 (5/7), 6-3 on Monday.

Rafael Nadal said he is doing his best to "keep dreaming" after he extended his stay at the Madrid Open by winning a three-hour tussle with Argentina's Pedro Cachin 6-1, 6-7 (5/7), 6-3 on Monday. Contesting his home tournament one last time before retirement, the five-time champion gave the world number 91 his shirt after Cachin asked him for a memento from the match. "Some moments good, some moments not good. I found a way to be through. I think in the third set with some mistakes I was still able to be a bit unpredictable," Nadal said of his roller-coaster third-round victory. "Now I'm enjoying. Let's see how I wake up tomorrow. Playing at home means everything to me, just try my best to keep dreaming." Nadal's reward is a Tuesday last-16 clash with the 30th-seeded Jiri Lehecka, who beat the Mallorcan in a practice session a week ago. The 37-year-old has been dealing with physical issues, which have limited him to eight matches this season. Asked if it would surprise him if he managed to beat Lehecka on Tuesday, Nadal said: "Yes, more so after today's match. I will face a player who is playing at a very high level, who has a very powerful serve." While Nadal has already beaten a higher-ranked opponent this week -- number 11 Alex de Minaur -- he believes the quality of Lehecka's ball "is another step up". Top-seeded Jannik Sinner beat world number 72 Pavel Kotov 6-2, 7-5. Kazakhstan's Alexander Bublik beat American Ben Shelton 3-6, 7-6 (7/2), 6-4 to reach the fourth round, where he will face number three seed Daniil Medvedev. ALSO READ | Football: Luis Rubiales denies ‘irregularities’ in Spanish football corruption probe Ons Jabeur called out organisers of European tournaments for giving men preferential treatment at combined events and said "they need to respect women more." Jabeur, the 2022 champion in Madrid, was speaking after dismissing ninth-seeded Jelena Ostapenko 6-0, 6-4 to set up a last-eight clash with Madison Keys. "I feel like we have a long way to go, especially here in Madrid and in Rome, in Europe in general," she said. Jabeur said women players were not given the same access to practice courts and were on television less. "The way they treat women here and men, they're completely different," she added. "Here in Spain, I would love to go to the hotel and open the TV and see a woman's tennis match. "How can you inspire young girls without showing any matches?" Top-seeded Iga Swiatek dropped the opening game before sweeping the next 12 to against home favourite Sara Sorribes Tormo 6-1, 6-0 and advance to a quarter-final meeting with Brazilian lefty Beatriz Haddad Maia. Keys won an all-American battle, knocking out third-seeded Coco Gauff 7-6 (7/4), 4-6, 6-4 to reach the last-eight in Madrid for the first time. The 29-year-old missed the start of the season with a shoulder injury, which sidelined her for four months. Gauff, who was broken seven times and hit 13 doubles faults, lamented her serving. "Not holding serve honestly is what cost me the match," said the reigning US Open champion. "My serve is evolving and there's a lot of minor changes being made," she said. "When it's on, it's definitely a weapon and I guess it's just making it more consistent." Also through to the quarter-finals is Mirra Andreeva, who celebrated her 17th birthday with a 7-6 (7/2), 6-4 win over Italian 12th seed Jasmine Paolini, a year on from her dream run to the Madrid fourth round on her WTA debut. The Russian teenager fell to eventual champion Aryna Sabalenka at the Caja Magica 12 months ago but will get a rematch with the Belarusian world number two, who outlasted American Danielle Collins 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 in Monday's last match.

Tennis: Rafael Nadal keeps clay dream alive at Madrid Open, battles past Pedro Cachin of Argentina

Carlos Alcaraz said he is playing pain-free at the Madrid Open following an arm injury that derailed the start of his claycourt season but the defending champion still has some lingering doubts about his forehand. The 20-year-old successfully defended his Indian Wells title last month and then reached the Miami Open quarter-finals before injuring his right forearm during a practice session in Monaco.

Alcaraz, who missed the Monte Carlo and Barcelona tournaments before making a comeback in Madrid, said he had tweaked his style slightly on the advice of his coach "Juanqui" - Juan Carlos Ferrero. "When I want to hit a forehand hard, I'm asking myself how the arm will react. It's there in my mind," the world number three said after beating Thiago Seyboth Wild 6-3 6-3 in the third round on Sunday.

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"Juanqui tells me to go with a relaxed hand and that's what I do. "I still don't trust 100% the forearm. I have doubts, it's just in my head. I love competing, so from time to time I want to go hard and I think about it. "I can't say that I play at a lower percentage, I play differently. You're used to seeing me push my forehand to 200% several times in matches. Juanqui tells me I don't need to go that far. "I'm happy with my game and with the ball's trajectory. I'm moving well, feeling good and I have no pain. I just need time to let these thoughts go away."

The second-seeded Spaniard, who is seeking a third straight trophy in Madrid ahead of next month's French Open, next plays Jan-Lennard Struff in a rematch of last year's title clash.

Carlos Alcaraz said he is playing pain-free at the Madrid Open following an arm injury that derailed the start of his claycourt season but the defending champion still has some lingering doubts about his forehand.

Carlos Alcaraz said he is playing pain-free at the Madrid Open following an arm injury that derailed the start of his claycourt season but the defending champion still has some lingering doubts about his forehand. The 20-year-old successfully defended his Indian Wells title last month and then reached the Miami Open quarter-finals before injuring his right forearm during a practice session in Monaco. Alcaraz, who missed the Monte Carlo and Barcelona tournaments before making a comeback in Madrid, said he had tweaked his style slightly on the advice of his coach "Juanqui" - Juan Carlos Ferrero. "When I want to hit a forehand hard, I'm asking myself how the arm will react. It's there in my mind," the world number three said after beating Thiago Seyboth Wild 6-3 6-3 in the third round on Sunday. Also read: Houston Texans WR Tank Dell injured in shooting at event in Florida "Juanqui tells me to go with a relaxed hand and that's what I do. "I still don't trust 100% the forearm. I have doubts, it's just in my head. I love competing, so from time to time I want to go hard and I think about it. "I can't say that I play at a lower percentage, I play differently. You're used to seeing me push my forehand to 200% several times in matches. Juanqui tells me I don't need to go that far. "I'm happy with my game and with the ball's trajectory. I'm moving well, feeling good and I have no pain. I just need time to let these thoughts go away." The second-seeded Spaniard, who is seeking a third straight trophy in Madrid ahead of next month's French Open, next plays Jan-Lennard Struff in a rematch of last year's title clash.

Tennis: Spanish star Carlos Alcaraz playing pain-free but hasn't regained full trust in forehand

Carlos Alcaraz passed a "test of fire" to breeze into the Madrid Open last 16 with a straight sets victory over Thiago Seyboth Wild on Sunday (Apr 28), demonstrating he is over his injury worries before the French Open.

Carlos Alcaraz passed a "test of fire" to breeze into the Madrid Open last 16 with a straight sets victory over Thiago Seyboth Wild on Sunday (Apr 28), demonstrating he is over his injury worries before the French Open. The double defending champion came through 6-3, 6-3 and will face last year's runner-up Jan-Lennard Struff in the next round after another impressive showing before adoring fans on home soil. World number three Alcaraz, 20, missed a month prior to the Madrid Open with a forearm issue but returned to crush Alexander Shevchenko in the second round. Still wearing a protective sleeve on his right arm, he had far too much for Seyboth Wild, who had ousted 28th seed Lorenzo Musetti. "Maybe today I was a bit nervous about how it would be, Thiago hits the ball so hard, I didn't know how the forearm would hold up," said Alcaraz on court. "Today was the test of fire, no discomfort, feeling spectacular...from here, we'll be getting better." Indian Wells champion Alcaraz broke for a 4-3 lead in the first set when Seyboth Wild blinked first and sent a forehand into the net. The second seed sealed the set with another break when his Brazilian opponent double-faulted. Alcaraz stepped up a gear in the second set, winning 10 of the first 11 points and breaking in the second and fourth games as he raced into a 5-0 lead. Seyboth Wild battled to a hold and a break to salvage some pride but Alcaraz triumphed on serve when the Brazilian went long. "I was very comfortable on the court, moving, hitting the ball, as I always say finishing the game isn't easy, it's nerves," added Alcaraz. Germany's Struff defeated Frenchman Ugo Humbert 7-5, 6-4. Andrey Rublev came back from 5-0 down in a first set tie-break to beat home favourite Alejandro Davidovich Fokina 7-6 (12/10), 6-4 in a nervy affair. The world number eight saved five set points to stun his opponent, before a similarly hard-fought second set. Rublev broke for a 5-4 lead with a shot which the Spaniard chose to leave as he thought it was long, but Hawk-Eye showed it was in by a whisker. The Russian wrapped up his win with a forehand winner, his second win of the week after four straight defeats prior. Also read | Madrid Open: Rafael Nadal says he's 'far from best' after advancing to third round 'Very tough match' Women's world number four Elena Rybakina eased to a 6-1, 6-4 win over Egypt's Mayar Sherif to reach the last 16. The Kazakh, who has a tour-leading three titles this season after triumphing in Stuttgart last week, broke twice in the first set to move 5-0 ahead on the Spanish clay. Although Sherif battled harder in the second set, surviving four match points to hold for 5-4 down, Rybakina clinched the victory on serve at the Caja Magica. "Despite the score, it was a very tough match," said Rybakina, who also leads the tour with 28 wins. "It was a lot of deuces and we both fought a lot. I'm really happy with the performance today." Rybakina will face teenager Sara Bejlek in the next round after the Czech defeated American Ashlyn Krueger 6-3, 6-1. "I've never played against a player like this," said the 18-year-old. "I will try my best and we'll see how it will go tomorrow." Mirra Andreeva defeated Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova 7-5, 6-1 to return to the last 16 for the second year running. The 16-year-old Russian won 25 points to nine in the second set against the world number seven from the Czech Republic.

Madrid Open: Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz advances to last 16 after crushing Wild

Rafael Nadal avenged his defeat to Alex de Minaur from Barcelona with a 7-6 (8/6), 6-3 victory over the Australian on Saturday to extend his stay in Madrid on his final appearance at his home tournament but admitted he still "needs time" to return to his competitive peak.

Nadal's farewell tour has pitted him against De Minaur twice in as many weeks but this time the result was reversed as the 22-time Grand Slam champion advanced to a third-round meeting with Argentina's Pedro Cachin.

In front of a capacity crowd that included the King of Spain, Felipe VI, French football icon Zinedine Zidane, and Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior, Nadal dug deep to dismiss the world number 11, despite admitting ahead of the tournament he was still struggling with numerous physical issues.

It was an impressive performance from the 37-year-old but he immediately dismissed the idea it was anywhere near his vintage form.

"No, not yet. It needs time," said Nadal on court. "To play over two hours means a lot to me and the atmosphere here is just a joke.

"Just step by step and let's see how I recover."

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Five-time Madrid champion Nadal said he will not make a decision on playing at the French Open until after Rome which starts next week, and explained the key factor that would determine his participation.

"It's not a thing about losing or winning. It's about going on court there with the feeling that I can fight and I can be competitive," said the record 14-time French Open champion.

"So, if I am not able to go on court and dream, for me it doesn't make sense to go. I prefer to stay with all the amazing memories that I have."

Stefanos Tsitsipas suffered a surprise second round exit at the hands of world number 118 Thiago Monteiro.

Tsitsipas, who arrived in the Spanish capital with only one defeat in 11 matches on clay this term, lost 6-4, 6-4 to the Brazilian qualifier in just over 90 minutes.

The Greek world number seven had a first round bye and came into the tournament on the back of a third title triumph in Monte Carlo and a runner-up showing in Barcelona in the previous two weeks.

But the left-handed Monteiro looked more comfortable on court, benefitting from having already won three matches this week, through qualifying and the main draw.

"For sure this is one of the biggest wins of my career," said Monteiro, who is through to the third round at a Masters 1000 event for the first time.

Since the start of 2021, this is just the second time in 11 Masters clay tournaments where Tsitsipas has not made at least the quarter-finals, and the 25-year-old Greek was disappointed by his performance.

"I felt out of rhythm the entire match on my returns. I felt very disbalanced and just my body was going all over the place," said Tsitsipas.

Top seed Jannik Sinner had no such problem in reaching the third round.

He extended his unbeaten record against fellow Italians to 13-0 by defeating his Davis Cup teammate and good friend Lorenzo Sonego 6-0, 6-3 in just 69 minutes.

Through to the third round in Madrid for the second time in three appearances, the world number two will face Pavel Kotov for a place in the last 16.

Third seed Daniil Medvedev recovered from a set down to squeeze past tricky Italian Matteo Arnaldi 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 and set up a third round against American Sebastian Korda.

Rafael Nadal avenged his defeat to Alex de Minaur from Barcelona with a 7-6 (8/6), 6-3 victory over the Australian on Saturday to extend his stay in Madrid on his final appearance at his home tournament but admitted he still "needs time" to return to his competitive peak.

Rafael Nadal avenged his defeat to Alex de Minaur from Barcelona with a 7-6 (8/6), 6-3 victory over the Australian on Saturday to extend his stay in Madrid on his final appearance at his home tournament but admitted he still "needs time" to return to his competitive peak. Nadal's farewell tour has pitted him against De Minaur twice in as many weeks but this time the result was reversed as the 22-time Grand Slam champion advanced to a third-round meeting with Argentina's Pedro Cachin. In front of a capacity crowd that included the King of Spain, Felipe VI, French football icon Zinedine Zidane, and Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior, Nadal dug deep to dismiss the world number 11, despite admitting ahead of the tournament he was still struggling with numerous physical issues. It was an impressive performance from the 37-year-old but he immediately dismissed the idea it was anywhere near his vintage form. "No, not yet. It needs time," said Nadal on court. "To play over two hours means a lot to me and the atmosphere here is just a joke. "Just step by step and let's see how I recover." ALSO READ: 'Looked never so bright,' says IOC boss Thomas Bach on Olympics future Five-time Madrid champion Nadal said he will not make a decision on playing at the French Open until after Rome which starts next week, and explained the key factor that would determine his participation. "It's not a thing about losing or winning. It's about going on court there with the feeling that I can fight and I can be competitive," said the record 14-time French Open champion. "So, if I am not able to go on court and dream, for me it doesn't make sense to go. I prefer to stay with all the amazing memories that I have." Stefanos Tsitsipas suffered a surprise second round exit at the hands of world number 118 Thiago Monteiro. Tsitsipas, who arrived in the Spanish capital with only one defeat in 11 matches on clay this term, lost 6-4, 6-4 to the Brazilian qualifier in just over 90 minutes. The Greek world number seven had a first round bye and came into the tournament on the back of a third title triumph in Monte Carlo and a runner-up showing in Barcelona in the previous two weeks. But the left-handed Monteiro looked more comfortable on court, benefitting from having already won three matches this week, through qualifying and the main draw. "For sure this is one of the biggest wins of my career," said Monteiro, who is through to the third round at a Masters 1000 event for the first time. Since the start of 2021, this is just the second time in 11 Masters clay tournaments where Tsitsipas has not made at least the quarter-finals, and the 25-year-old Greek was disappointed by his performance. "I felt out of rhythm the entire match on my returns. I felt very disbalanced and just my body was going all over the place," said Tsitsipas. Top seed Jannik Sinner had no such problem in reaching the third round. He extended his unbeaten record against fellow Italians to 13-0 by defeating his Davis Cup teammate and good friend Lorenzo Sonego 6-0, 6-3 in just 69 minutes. Through to the third round in Madrid for the second time in three appearances, the world number two will face Pavel Kotov for a place in the last 16. Third seed Daniil Medvedev recovered from a set down to squeeze past tricky Italian Matteo Arnaldi 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 and set up a third round against American Sebastian Korda.

Madrid Open: Rafael Nadal says he's 'far from best' after advancing to third round

Defending Madrid Open champions Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka both triumphed in their opening clashes in the Spanish capital on Friday to reach the third round.

Alcaraz returned after a month out to begin his double defence with a convincing 6-2, 6-1 win over Alexander Shevchenko, while Sabalenka survived a tense three-set tussle against the in-form Magda Linette.

Men's world number three Alcaraz shone on home clay after a forearm problem led to his withdrawals from the Monte Carlo Masters and Barcelona Open.

"It's been quite a tough month for me, with the uncertainty over when I'd be back," said Alcaraz. "The priority today was to see how I felt, in a difficult match.

"The feelings were very good, and I think I played at a very good level despite coming without rhythm... I am very happy and it's a pleasure to play here in Madrid again."

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Wearing a protective sleeve on his right arm, two-time Grand Slam winner Alcaraz quickly dispelled any doubts after his time out by flying out of the blocks in the first set with a break.

The 20-year-old Spaniard was as exciting as ever, frequently on the attack, and secured a second break in the fifth game for a 4-1 lead.

Indian Wells winner Alcaraz hit the net with a drop shot to let the Kazakhstani back in but broke again himself for a 5-2 advantage which he served out.

Alcaraz pulled off two second set breaks for a 3-0 lead but again allowed his 23-year-old opponent to cut the deficit before striking back with a third break, which he consolidated for 5-1.

The 2022 and 2023 Madrid winner and second seed wrapped up his victory in little over an hour with another break when Shevchenko sent a forehand long.

Alcaraz will face Thiago Seyboth Wild in the third round after the Brazilian surprised Lorenzo Musetti 6-4, 6-4.

Andrey Rublev ended a four-match losing streak with a straightforward 6-1, 6-4 win over Facundo Bagnis.

"It feels really great after a while to start with a win and I'm happy with my performance," said Rublev, who lost his temper and obliterated his racquet after a first-round exit in Barcelona.

German fourth seed Alexander Zverev, the champion in 2018 and 2021, comfortably made the third round with a 6-3, 6-2 win over Borna Coric.

Defending Madrid Open champions Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka both triumphed in their opening clashes in the Spanish capital on Friday to reach the third round.

Defending Madrid Open champions Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka both triumphed in their opening clashes in the Spanish capital on Friday to reach the third round. Alcaraz returned after a month out to begin his double defence with a convincing 6-2, 6-1 win over Alexander Shevchenko, while Sabalenka survived a tense three-set tussle against the in-form Magda Linette. Men's world number three Alcaraz shone on home clay after a forearm problem led to his withdrawals from the Monte Carlo Masters and Barcelona Open. "It's been quite a tough month for me, with the uncertainty over when I'd be back," said Alcaraz. "The priority today was to see how I felt, in a difficult match. "The feelings were very good, and I think I played at a very good level despite coming without rhythm... I am very happy and it's a pleasure to play here in Madrid again." ALSO READ: Paris Olympics 2024: France to deploy 6,000 police officers for safe arrival of Olympic torch Wearing a protective sleeve on his right arm, two-time Grand Slam winner Alcaraz quickly dispelled any doubts after his time out by flying out of the blocks in the first set with a break. The 20-year-old Spaniard was as exciting as ever, frequently on the attack, and secured a second break in the fifth game for a 4-1 lead. Indian Wells winner Alcaraz hit the net with a drop shot to let the Kazakhstani back in but broke again himself for a 5-2 advantage which he served out. Alcaraz pulled off two second set breaks for a 3-0 lead but again allowed his 23-year-old opponent to cut the deficit before striking back with a third break, which he consolidated for 5-1. The 2022 and 2023 Madrid winner and second seed wrapped up his victory in little over an hour with another break when Shevchenko sent a forehand long. Alcaraz will face Thiago Seyboth Wild in the third round after the Brazilian surprised Lorenzo Musetti 6-4, 6-4. Andrey Rublev ended a four-match losing streak with a straightforward 6-1, 6-4 win over Facundo Bagnis. "It feels really great after a while to start with a win and I'm happy with my performance," said Rublev, who lost his temper and obliterated his racquet after a first-round exit in Barcelona. German fourth seed Alexander Zverev, the champion in 2018 and 2021, comfortably made the third round with a 6-3, 6-2 win over Borna Coric.

Madrid Open 2024: Defending champions Carlos Alcaraz, Aryna Sabalenka cruise to third round

Rafael Nadal thrashed 16-year-old wild card Darwin Blanch 6-1 6-0 in the first round of the Madrid Open on Thursday and will face Australian 10th seed Alex de Minaur next. The 22-time Grand Slam champion broke the American at the first opportunity in the second game before grabbing the first set in just 28 minutes.

Nadal, who last claimed the title on Madrid's clay in 2017, broke again to take the lead in the second set and kept up the pace, giving a tennis masterclass to Blanch who is still seeking his first tour win. The age gap between the pair was 21 years and 117 days, the biggest between two opponents at ATP Masters 1000 level.

The American teen committed 27 unforced errors in what was his second ATP tour match after he had made his debut last month in Miami.

"I think today I played against someone with a great future in front of him," Nadal said. "(But) Today he was making mistakes. "I tried to be there and be solid all the time without taking a lot of risks. I'm happy to be through and I wish him all the very best.

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"For me after how things developed the last few years, every time I have a chance to be on court on this amazing stadium with unconditional support means a lot to me. Trying to enjoy every moment."

The win was Nadal's record-extending 57th victory in Madrid, a tournament that he has won five times. He will play world number 11 De Minaur in the second round on Saturday. The Australian defeated Nadal 7-5 6-1 in the second round of the Barcelona Open last week when the Spaniard was playing his first tournament since January.

Rafael Nadal thrashed 16-year-old wild card Darwin Blanch 6-1 6-0 in the first round of the Madrid Open on Thursday and will face Australian 10th seed Alex de Minaur next.

Rafael Nadal thrashed 16-year-old wild card Darwin Blanch 6-1 6-0 in the first round of the Madrid Open on Thursday and will face Australian 10th seed Alex de Minaur next. The 22-time Grand Slam champion broke the American at the first opportunity in the second game before grabbing the first set in just 28 minutes. Nadal, who last claimed the title on Madrid's clay in 2017, broke again to take the lead in the second set and kept up the pace, giving a tennis masterclass to Blanch who is still seeking his first tour win. The age gap between the pair was 21 years and 117 days, the biggest between two opponents at ATP Masters 1000 level. The American teen committed 27 unforced errors in what was his second ATP tour match after he had made his debut last month in Miami. "I think today I played against someone with a great future in front of him," Nadal said. "(But) Today he was making mistakes. "I tried to be there and be solid all the time without taking a lot of risks. I'm happy to be through and I wish him all the very best. Also read: WADA launches independent review of its decision to allow Chinese swimmers in Tokyo Olympics "For me after how things developed the last few years, every time I have a chance to be on court on this amazing stadium with unconditional support means a lot to me. Trying to enjoy every moment." The win was Nadal's record-extending 57th victory in Madrid, a tournament that he has won five times. He will play world number 11 De Minaur in the second round on Saturday. The Australian defeated Nadal 7-5 6-1 in the second round of the Barcelona Open last week when the Spaniard was playing his first tournament since January.

Madrid Open: Former world number one Rafael Nadal outclasses Darwin Blanch in first round

Rafael Nadal breezed to a straight sets victory over 16-year-old Darwin Blanch to reach the Madrid Open second round on Thursday as he began his farewell appearance in the Spanish capital.

The 37-year-old said this week he was not fully fit but demolished his American opponent 6-1, 6-0 in one hour and three minutes as he continues his comeback from injury.

Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam champion, is expecting 2024 to be his final season in tennis and this his last appearance at the Madrid Open.

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He made his first competitive appearance since January at the Barcelona Open last week, where he was defeated in the second round by Alex de Minaur.

The Australian will be Nadal's second round opponent in Madrid too as the Spaniard tries to find form and fitness ahead of Rome and then the French Open, where he is the record 14-time winner.

"I am hoping to do as well as possible and I hope to be competitive against De Minaur," said Nadal.

"For me it has always been a pleasure to play in front of you all... the support I've received here since the first time I played is hard to compare to anywhere else, so I can only say thank you."

Nadal broke in the second game against the overpowered and initially overawed American, ranked 1,028th in the world.&nbsp;

Blanch got on the board in the fourth game but Nadal broke again in the sixth after the youngster drove a forehand into the net.

Blanch saved two break points at the start of the second set but Nadal converted the third to take further control.

The merciless tennis great broke again after an entertaining rally for a 3-0 lead and once more when Blanch went long to make it 5-0.

Nadal served it out, triumphing on his second match point with a powerful serve that Blanch could not control.

Rafael Nadal breezed to a straight sets victory over 16-year-old Darwin Blanch to reach the Madrid Open second round on Thursday as he began his farewell appearance in the Spanish capital.

Rafael Nadal breezed to a straight sets victory over 16-year-old Darwin Blanch to reach the Madrid Open second round on Thursday as he began his farewell appearance in the Spanish capital. The 37-year-old said this week he was not fully fit but demolished his American opponent 6-1, 6-0 in one hour and three minutes as he continues his comeback from injury. Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam champion, is expecting 2024 to be his final season in tennis and this his last appearance at the Madrid Open. Also Read: Naomi Osaka stumbles against Samsonova, Gauff sails through in Madrid Open He made his first competitive appearance since January at the Barcelona Open last week, where he was defeated in the second round by Alex de Minaur. The Australian will be Nadal's second round opponent in Madrid too as the Spaniard tries to find form and fitness ahead of Rome and then the French Open, where he is the record 14-time winner. "I am hoping to do as well as possible and I hope to be competitive against De Minaur," said Nadal. "For me it has always been a pleasure to play in front of you all... the support I've received here since the first time I played is hard to compare to anywhere else, so I can only say thank you." Nadal broke in the second game against the overpowered and initially overawed American, ranked 1,028th in the world. Blanch got on the board in the fourth game but Nadal broke again in the sixth after the youngster drove a forehand into the net. Blanch saved two break points at the start of the second set but Nadal converted the third to take further control. The merciless tennis great broke again after an entertaining rally for a 3-0 lead and once more when Blanch went long to make it 5-0. Nadal served it out, triumphing on his second match point with a powerful serve that Blanch could not control.

Tennis: Rafael Nadal makes winning start in farewell Madrid Open

Former German tennis star Boris&nbsp;Becker&nbsp;has been discharged from bankruptcy by a London court following a deal with his debtors, the 56-year-old's German lawyer said Thursday.&nbsp;

"As a result of an agreement with his insolvency administrators, Boris&nbsp;Becker's bankruptcy, which began in 2017, was legally terminated by a decision by the High Court in London yesterday,"&nbsp;Becker's Berlin-based lawyer said in a statement sent to AFP.

"Becker&nbsp;is released from any further liability arising from the insolvency debts."

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Becker's lawyer said the former tennis player had come to an agreement with insolvency administrators but that the details of the agreement would remain confidential "at this time".

The three-time Wimbledon winner was sentenced to two-and-a-half years in prison in April 2022 for concealing £2.5 million ($3.1 million) in assets and loans to avoid paying debts.

Becker&nbsp;was released in December of the same year under a UK regulation for foreign prisoners and subsequently deported to Germany.&nbsp;

He had been declared bankrupt in June 2017, owing creditors £50 million over an unpaid loan of more than £3 million on his estate on the Spanish island of Majorca.

At just 17, the dynamic redhead became the youngest male Wimbledon winner.&nbsp;

Nicknamed "Boom Boom"&nbsp;Becker&nbsp;for his powerful serve, he repeated the feat the following year and won a third title in 1989.

Becker&nbsp;finished his career with six grand slams, adding two Australian Open crowns and a US Open title.

After his playing career,&nbsp;Becker&nbsp;moved into punditry including with the BBC, before coaching Novak Djokovic to six grand slam titles between 2014 and 2016.&nbsp;

During his retirement however, his achievements were often overshadowed by his colourful and controversial private life, both during his playing career and afterwards. &nbsp;

He released his first autobiography, The Player, in 2003, which made headlines with booze-soaked tales of luxury hotels and a string of female conquests.&nbsp;

Becker&nbsp;conceived a daughter in a brief but now famous encounter with a Russian woman at a London restaurant in 1999 while his then wife, Barbara, was pregnant.

Despite estimated career earnings of £40 million as a player,&nbsp;Becker&nbsp;-- who received a suspended sentence by a Munich court in 2002 for tax evasion -- was declared bankrupt in 2017.

Former German tennis star Boris Becker has been discharged from bankruptcy by a London court following a deal with his debtors, the 56-year-old's German lawyer said Thursday.

Former German tennis star Boris Becker has been discharged from bankruptcy by a London court following a deal with his debtors, the 56-year-old's German lawyer said Thursday. "As a result of an agreement with his insolvency administrators, Boris Becker's bankruptcy, which began in 2017, was legally terminated by a decision by the High Court in London yesterday," Becker's Berlin-based lawyer said in a statement sent to AFP. "Becker is released from any further liability arising from the insolvency debts." Also Read: 'We have to respect...,' says Real Madrid coach Ancelotti on Xavi Hernandez staying with Barcelona Becker's lawyer said the former tennis player had come to an agreement with insolvency administrators but that the details of the agreement would remain confidential "at this time". The three-time Wimbledon winner was sentenced to two-and-a-half years in prison in April 2022 for concealing £2.5 million ($3.1 million) in assets and loans to avoid paying debts. Becker was released in December of the same year under a UK regulation for foreign prisoners and subsequently deported to Germany. He had been declared bankrupt in June 2017, owing creditors £50 million over an unpaid loan of more than £3 million on his estate on the Spanish island of Majorca. At just 17, the dynamic redhead became the youngest male Wimbledon winner. Nicknamed "Boom Boom" Becker for his powerful serve, he repeated the feat the following year and won a third title in 1989. Becker finished his career with six grand slams, adding two Australian Open crowns and a US Open title. After his playing career, Becker moved into punditry including with the BBC, before coaching Novak Djokovic to six grand slam titles between 2014 and 2016. During his retirement however, his achievements were often overshadowed by his colourful and controversial private life, both during his playing career and afterwards. He released his first autobiography, The Player, in 2003, which made headlines with booze-soaked tales of luxury hotels and a string of female conquests. Becker conceived a daughter in a brief but now famous encounter with a Russian woman at a London restaurant in 1999 while his then wife, Barbara, was pregnant. Despite estimated career earnings of £40 million as a player, Becker -- who received a suspended sentence by a Munich court in 2002 for tax evasion -- was declared bankrupt in 2017.

Tennis: Boris Becker discharged from bankruptcy after eight years

Liudmila Samsonova brought former world number one Naomi Osaka's return to clay to a halt in the second round of the Madrid Open on Thursday with a 6-2, 4-6, 7-5 victory.

Elsewhere, American Coco Gauff sailed through to the third round with a 6-0, 6-0 thumping of&nbsp;Arantxa Rus.

Four-time Grand Slam champion Osaka twice battled back from a break down in the second set to force a decisive third but world number 17 Samsonova eventually ground out the victory.

Japanese star Osaka returned to tennis in January after a long break and earned her first victory on clay for two years on Wednesday against Greet Minnen.

However Russian 15th seed Samsonova, whom Osaka beat at Indian Wells in March, was able to end a four-match losing streak with her victory in two hours 22 minutes in the Spanish capital.

Hard-court expert Osaka, 26, is not overly fond of the red dirt and has not won back-to-back matches on the surface since 2019.

She lost last week at the Rouen Open in France against Martina Trevisan in her first match back on clay but improved this week.

"I felt -- I don't want to say happy -- I felt good that I was able to fight back," said Osaka.

"I think it's a big difference from my match in France, so I was happy that I learned from that match, but obviously really sad that I lost."

Samsonova raced into a 4-0 first set lead, breaking in the first and third games as Osaka struggled.

"Honestly, it's not the sliding part for me, it's the touch," said Osaka.

"I feel like I'm getting the balls, I'm just not really placing them well."

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After recovering an early break Osaka was broken again in the fifth game and Samsonova took a 4-2 lead. However Osaka battled back and won the next four games to take the set.

In the decider the players exchanged breaks before Osaka eventually blinked in the 11th game, with Samsonova wrapping up victory on serve. She will face Madison Keys in the next round.

Gauff, 20, romped to a 'double bagel' triumph in only 51 minutes against her 33-year-old Dutch opponent Rus.

The American saved four break points in the match to become the third player ever to win 6-0, 6-0 in the Madrid Open main draw.

World number three Gauff will face Ukraine's Dayana Yastremska in the third round.

Later Thursday world number one and last year's runner-up in Madrid, Iga Swiatek, faces China's Wang Xiyu.

Liudmila Samsonova brought former world number one Naomi Osaka's return to clay to a halt in the second round of the Madrid Open on Thursday with a 6-2, 4-6, 7-5 victory.

Liudmila Samsonova brought former world number one Naomi Osaka's return to clay to a halt in the second round of the Madrid Open on Thursday with a 6-2, 4-6, 7-5 victory. Elsewhere, American Coco Gauff sailed through to the third round with a 6-0, 6-0 thumping of Arantxa Rus. Four-time Grand Slam champion Osaka twice battled back from a break down in the second set to force a decisive third but world number 17 Samsonova eventually ground out the victory. Japanese star Osaka returned to tennis in January after a long break and earned her first victory on clay for two years on Wednesday against Greet Minnen. However Russian 15th seed Samsonova, whom Osaka beat at Indian Wells in March, was able to end a four-match losing streak with her victory in two hours 22 minutes in the Spanish capital. Hard-court expert Osaka, 26, is not overly fond of the red dirt and has not won back-to-back matches on the surface since 2019. She lost last week at the Rouen Open in France against Martina Trevisan in her first match back on clay but improved this week. "I felt -- I don't want to say happy -- I felt good that I was able to fight back," said Osaka. "I think it's a big difference from my match in France, so I was happy that I learned from that match, but obviously really sad that I lost." Samsonova raced into a 4-0 first set lead, breaking in the first and third games as Osaka struggled. "Honestly, it's not the sliding part for me, it's the touch," said Osaka. "I feel like I'm getting the balls, I'm just not really placing them well." ALSO READ | IPL 2024: 'Don’t spread nonsense', Ambati Rayudu goes ballistic over fake attributed quotes on Ruturaj Gaikwad After recovering an early break Osaka was broken again in the fifth game and Samsonova took a 4-2 lead. However Osaka battled back and won the next four games to take the set. In the decider the players exchanged breaks before Osaka eventually blinked in the 11th game, with Samsonova wrapping up victory on serve. She will face Madison Keys in the next round. Gauff, 20, romped to a 'double bagel' triumph in only 51 minutes against her 33-year-old Dutch opponent Rus. The American saved four break points in the match to become the third player ever to win 6-0, 6-0 in the Madrid Open main draw. World number three Gauff will face Ukraine's Dayana Yastremska in the third round. Later Thursday world number one and last year's runner-up in Madrid, Iga Swiatek, faces China's Wang Xiyu.

Tennis: Naomi Osaka stumbles against Samsonova, Gauff sails through in Madrid Open

Naomi Osaka picked up her first win on clay in two years on Wednesday (Apr 24) and while the former world number one is adapting to the slower surface ahead of the French Open she has no plans to abandon the power game that brought her four Grand Slam titles.

Naomi Osaka picked up her first win on clay in two years on Wednesday (Apr 24) and while the former world number one is adapting to the slower surface ahead of the French Open she has no plans to abandon the power game that brought her four Grand Slam titles. Osaka, who returned to action in January after a 15-month maternity break, has enjoyed huge success thanks to her powerful baseline game but the Japanese player has struggled on clay. Her first match of the season on the surface ended in an opening-round loss to Martina Trevisan at Rouen last week but she responded with a 6-4 6-1 win over Greet Minnen at the Madrid Open on Wednesday. "I slid a couple of times to my forehand pretty well, so I was excited about that," Osaka told reporters. "She was hitting really good drop shots, but I think I got to a couple quite well. Movement-wise I'm feeling a lot more comfortable. "I want to adapt and I'm trying to, but there are things that work for me and have gotten me to where I am, so I don't want to start slicing and dicing. Also read | Tennis: Jannik Sinner not heaping pressure on himself with top ranking in sight ahead of Madrid Open "There's a basis to my game and I want to stick to that, but also respect the court. It's a work in progress for me, but I'm watching a lot more matches on clay. I'm trying to do my homework as best as I can." Osaka, who is now ranked 197th in the world, has never made it to a final on clay and has failed to advance beyond the third round at Roland Garros. "I'd like to win a tournament on clay," said Osaka, who meets Liudmila Samsonova next in Madrid. "It would be very ironic but also hilarious if my first tournament (win of the comeback) would be on clay." The French Open begins on May 26.

Tennis: Naomi Osaka registers first win of season on clay in preparation of French Open

Rafael Nadal said on Wednesday he will only play at the upcoming French Open if he feels "capable enough to compete well".

The 14-time Roland Garros champion conceded that if the action in Paris were to kick off today, he would not be able to participate but vowed to keep fighting for the chance to play at his most successful tournament one last time.

"I don’t know what’s going to happen in the next three weeks. I will keep fighting and doing the things I believe I have to do so I can try to play in Paris, and if I can play, I play, if I can’t, I can’t," the former world number one told reporters at the Madrid Open on Wednesday.

"I will not play in Paris if I am the way I am now. If Paris were today, I wouldn’t take to the court. That’s the reality. I will only play in Paris if I feel capable enough to compete well."

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Nadal returned to tennis in Brisbane in January after spending almost an entire year on the sidelines nursing a psoas injury. But his comeback was short-lived as he sustained a muscle problem in Australia and has competed in just five matches so far this season.

<h2>- Not 100% -</h2>

The Spaniard kicked off his clay campaign in Barcelona last week, where he lost in the second round and is set to face 16-year-old American Darwin Blanch in his Madrid opener on Thursday.

"I don’t think I’m ready to play at my 100 per cent but I’m prepared to go out and play tomorrow. It’s important for me to play one last time here in Madrid, for me it means a lot," said the 37-year-old Nadal.

As he attempts to resume his ‘Last Dance’ in Madrid and say goodbye to one of his favourite tournaments on court, rather than on the sidelines, the 22-time major champion admits his farewell tour hasn’t been as enjoyable as he would have hoped.

"A few weeks ago, I didn't know if I will be able to play again on the professional tour, so today I am playing," he added. "It's not perfect, of course not perfect, but at least I am playing and I can enjoy again, especially in the few tournaments that are so emotional for me. I'm able to enjoy the fact that I can say probably good-bye on court."

Nadal says he’s hitting the ball well when he is able to be on court but "it's about more body limitations. I went through a lot of things last year and a half, two years".

"So body feelings are not enough good to feel myself playing with freedom enough in terms of body issues. That's not allowing me to compete the way that I would like to compete."

Rafael Nadal said on Wednesday he will only play at the upcoming French Open if he feels "capable enough to compete well". The 14-time Roland Garros champion conceded that if the action in Paris were to kick off today, he would not be able to participate but vowed to keep fighting for the chance to play at his most successful tournament one last time.

Rafael Nadal said on Wednesday he will only play at the upcoming French Open if he feels "capable enough to compete well". The 14-time Roland Garros champion conceded that if the action in Paris were to kick off today, he would not be able to participate but vowed to keep fighting for the chance to play at his most successful tournament one last time. "I don’t know what’s going to happen in the next three weeks. I will keep fighting and doing the things I believe I have to do so I can try to play in Paris, and if I can play, I play, if I can’t, I can’t," the former world number one told reporters at the Madrid Open on Wednesday. "I will not play in Paris if I am the way I am now. If Paris were today, I wouldn’t take to the court. That’s the reality. I will only play in Paris if I feel capable enough to compete well." ALSO READ: PL: Erling Haaland to miss Brighton game but Guardiola says injury not serious Nadal returned to tennis in Brisbane in January after spending almost an entire year on the sidelines nursing a psoas injury. But his comeback was short-lived as he sustained a muscle problem in Australia and has competed in just five matches so far this season. - Not 100% - The Spaniard kicked off his clay campaign in Barcelona last week, where he lost in the second round and is set to face 16-year-old American Darwin Blanch in his Madrid opener on Thursday. "I don’t think I’m ready to play at my 100 per cent but I’m prepared to go out and play tomorrow. It’s important for me to play one last time here in Madrid, for me it means a lot," said the 37-year-old Nadal. As he attempts to resume his ‘Last Dance’ in Madrid and say goodbye to one of his favourite tournaments on court, rather than on the sidelines, the 22-time major champion admits his farewell tour hasn’t been as enjoyable as he would have hoped. "A few weeks ago, I didn't know if I will be able to play again on the professional tour, so today I am playing," he added. "It's not perfect, of course not perfect, but at least I am playing and I can enjoy again, especially in the few tournaments that are so emotional for me. I'm able to enjoy the fact that I can say probably good-bye on court." Nadal says he’s hitting the ball well when he is able to be on court but "it's about more body limitations. I went through a lot of things last year and a half, two years". "So body feelings are not enough good to feel myself playing with freedom enough in terms of body issues. That's not allowing me to compete the way that I would like to compete."

Rafael Nadal willing to play 2024 French Open but only if he can ‘compete well’

World number two Jannik Sinner can close in on Novak Djokovic at the top of the world rankings by lifting the Madrid Open title but the in-form Italian said he is not putting any extra pressure on himself after a superb start to the season. With Djokovic skipping the Masters tournament to stay in top shape for the Grand Slams and the Olympic Games, Australian Open champion Sinner would pick up 1,000 points and move to within 330 of the Serb if he wins his fourth trophy of 2024.

"I don't want to put pressure on myself. I'm living a very positive moment, winning a lot of matches, I just try to keep going like this," Sinner, who has lost only two of his 27 matches this year, told reporters. "In my mind, I know that I can and have to improve if I want to win more. I'm searching for new opportunities and I feel like that every tournament I play, there can be a good opportunity to show that my level has raised. "Showing what I've improved ... that's for sure something I'd like to do here. This is a new opportunity, new tournament and we'll see how it goes."

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Defending Madrid champion Carlos Alcaraz said Sinner was the man to beat ahead of the May 26-June 9 French Open Grand Slam. "He's dangerous. He's the best player in the world right now," world number three Alcaraz said. "I think (some people) think his tennis doesn't suit well to the clay, but he's had results on clay as well.

"He can win every tournament he goes to, and obviously I'm fighting with him and Novak to be number one. I'm trying to stay there, but honestly it's going to be difficult."

World number two Jannik Sinner can close in on Novak Djokovic at the top of the world rankings by lifting the Madrid Open title but the in-form Italian said he is not putting any extra pressure on himself after a superb start to the season.

World number two Jannik Sinner can close in on Novak Djokovic at the top of the world rankings by lifting the Madrid Open title but the in-form Italian said he is not putting any extra pressure on himself after a superb start to the season. With Djokovic skipping the Masters tournament to stay in top shape for the Grand Slams and the Olympic Games, Australian Open champion Sinner would pick up 1,000 points and move to within 330 of the Serb if he wins his fourth trophy of 2024. "I don't want to put pressure on myself. I'm living a very positive moment, winning a lot of matches, I just try to keep going like this," Sinner, who has lost only two of his 27 matches this year, told reporters. "In my mind, I know that I can and have to improve if I want to win more. I'm searching for new opportunities and I feel like that every tournament I play, there can be a good opportunity to show that my level has raised. "Showing what I've improved ... that's for sure something I'd like to do here. This is a new opportunity, new tournament and we'll see how it goes." Also read: Novak Djokovic to coach himself? Tennis great drops hint for final stage of career Defending Madrid champion Carlos Alcaraz said Sinner was the man to beat ahead of the May 26-June 9 French Open Grand Slam. "He's dangerous. He's the best player in the world right now," world number three Alcaraz said. "I think (some people) think his tennis doesn't suit well to the clay, but he's had results on clay as well. "He can win every tournament he goes to, and obviously I'm fighting with him and Novak to be number one. I'm trying to stay there, but honestly it's going to be difficult."

Tennis: Jannik Sinner not heaping pressure on himself with top ranking in sight ahead of Madrid Open

Novak Djokovic has hinted that he&nbsp;may head into the final stretch of his tennis career without a coach and instead rely on himself to do the job. The record 24-time Grand Slam champion&nbsp;recently split with his former coach Goran Ivanisevic after a successful&nbsp;six-year partnership.

The Serbian is currently undergoing a trial period with compatriot and former Davis Cup captain&nbsp;Nenad Zimonjić, who was with him at the Monte Carlo Masters a fortnight ago.

Quizzed whether he needed Ivanisevic's replacement at all during the 25th Laureus World Sports Awards where he received the top honour, Djokovic said:&nbsp;“I am considering that as well, whether I should or shouldn’t have the coach."

“I had a really good time with Nenad Zimonjić as my coach the last three weeks so we’re talking about continuing and seeing. Let’s see, I’m going to make the decision in the next period," he added.

Djokovic explained he had been playing at the top level for more than two decades and that he could 'afford' not having a coach.&nbsp;

“I’m not rushing. I feel like playing tennis over 20 years and having a lot of different teams and coaches, it’s not like I think I don’t need a coach at all. I think there’s always value in having that quality team and fitness coach, physio, mental coach. It’s all important. It creates a formula for success and helps you perform better, train better, recover better. Stay on the top for as long as you can," said Djokovic.&nbsp;

"But I think I’m in the stage of my career where I can afford to maybe think having no coach is also an option. Let’s see. I’m going to make my decision soon.”&nbsp;

<h2>Djokovic ends partnership with Ivanisevic&nbsp;</h2>

It was last month that Djokovic made the surprise decision of parting ways with&nbsp;Ivanisevic, ending a fruitful partnership where he won 12 Grand Slam titles.&nbsp;

The Croatian joined Djokovic's team in 2018 as the Serb looked for ways to improve his serve and overall gameplay.&nbsp;

“Goran and I decided to stop working together a few days ago,” Djokovic posted on Instagram.&nbsp;

Djokovic acknowledged that their working relationship had witnessed several ups and downs but their friendship remained intact.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-parts-ways-with-coach-goran-ivanisevic-amid-tough-start-to-2024-season-704801">Also read |&nbsp;Novak Djokovic parts ways with coach Goran Ivanisevic amid tough start to 2024 season</a>

Having ended the 2023 season with three Grand Slams, Djokovic has not had the best of starts to 2024. He lost in the Australian Open semifinals to eventual winner Jannik Sinner before suffering a shock third-round loss to Luca Nardi at Indian Wells.

Nardi, who is ranked No. 124, became the lowest-ranked player to beat Djokovic in a Grand Slam or ATP Masters 1000 level event, surpassing No. 122 Levin Anderson in 2008 in Miami. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Novak Djokovic has hinted that he may head into the final stretch of his tennis career without a coach and instead rely on himself to do the job. The record 24-time Grand Slam champion recently split with his former coach Goran Ivanisevic after a successful six-year partnership.

Novak Djokovic has hinted that he may head into the final stretch of his tennis career without a coach and instead rely on himself to do the job. The record 24-time Grand Slam champion recently split with his former coach Goran Ivanisevic after a successful six-year partnership. The Serbian is currently undergoing a trial period with compatriot and former Davis Cup captain Nenad Zimonjić, who was with him at the Monte Carlo Masters a fortnight ago. Quizzed whether he needed Ivanisevic's replacement at all during the 25th Laureus World Sports Awards where he received the top honour, Djokovic said: “I am considering that as well, whether I should or shouldn’t have the coach." “I had a really good time with Nenad Zimonjić as my coach the last three weeks so we’re talking about continuing and seeing. Let’s see, I’m going to make the decision in the next period," he added. Djokovic explained he had been playing at the top level for more than two decades and that he could 'afford' not having a coach. “I’m not rushing. I feel like playing tennis over 20 years and having a lot of different teams and coaches, it’s not like I think I don’t need a coach at all. I think there’s always value in having that quality team and fitness coach, physio, mental coach. It’s all important. It creates a formula for success and helps you perform better, train better, recover better. Stay on the top for as long as you can," said Djokovic. "But I think I’m in the stage of my career where I can afford to maybe think having no coach is also an option. Let’s see. I’m going to make my decision soon.” Djokovic ends partnership with Ivanisevic It was last month that Djokovic made the surprise decision of parting ways with Ivanisevic, ending a fruitful partnership where he won 12 Grand Slam titles. The Croatian joined Djokovic's team in 2018 as the Serb looked for ways to improve his serve and overall gameplay. “Goran and I decided to stop working together a few days ago,” Djokovic posted on Instagram. Djokovic acknowledged that their working relationship had witnessed several ups and downs but their friendship remained intact. Also read | Novak Djokovic parts ways with coach Goran Ivanisevic amid tough start to 2024 season Having ended the 2023 season with three Grand Slams, Djokovic has not had the best of starts to 2024. He lost in the Australian Open semifinals to eventual winner Jannik Sinner before suffering a shock third-round loss to Luca Nardi at Indian Wells. Nardi, who is ranked No. 124, became the lowest-ranked player to beat Djokovic in a Grand Slam or ATP Masters 1000 level event, surpassing No. 122 Levin Anderson in 2008 in Miami. (With inputs from agencies)

Novak Djokovic to coach himself? Tennis great drops hint for final stage of career

Simona Halep has pulled out of next week's&nbsp;Madrid&nbsp;Open&nbsp;in order to work on her fitness as the Romanian said she needs more time to get physically ready to compete at the highest level after being out of action for over 18 months. The former Wimbledon and French&nbsp;Open&nbsp; champion had her four-year doping ban cut to nine months by the top court for global sport in March and made her return as a wildcard at the Miami&nbsp;Open, where she fell in the first round to Paula Badosa.

The former world number one was suspended in October 2022 after testing positive for roxadustat - a banned drug that stimulates the production of red blood cells - at the U.S.&nbsp;Open&nbsp;that year. The 32-year-old was also charged with another offence last year due to irregularities in her athlete biological passport, a method designed to monitor different blood parameters over time to reveal potential doping.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-aitana-bonmati-win-top-honours-at-laureus-awards-714031">Novak Djokovic, Aitana Bonmati win top honours at Laureus Awards</a>

But Halep, who denied any wrongdoing, was allowed to return to action after the Court of Arbitration for Sport cut her ban to nine months after accepting the Romanian's explanation that a contaminated supplement was to blame for her positive drugs test.

Halep, who won the title in&nbsp;Madrid&nbsp;in 2016 and 2017, was ranked inside the top 10 when she was suspended but has since seen her ranking plummet to 1,146.

Simona Halep has pulled out of next week's Madrid Open in order to work on her fitness as the Romanian said she needs more time to get physically ready to compete at the highest level after being out of action for over 18 months.

Simona Halep has pulled out of next week's Madrid Open in order to work on her fitness as the Romanian said she needs more time to get physically ready to compete at the highest level after being out of action for over 18 months. The former Wimbledon and French Open champion had her four-year doping ban cut to nine months by the top court for global sport in March and made her return as a wildcard at the Miami Open, where she fell in the first round to Paula Badosa. The former world number one was suspended in October 2022 after testing positive for roxadustat - a banned drug that stimulates the production of red blood cells - at the U.S. Open that year. The 32-year-old was also charged with another offence last year due to irregularities in her athlete biological passport, a method designed to monitor different blood parameters over time to reveal potential doping. Also read: Novak Djokovic, Aitana Bonmati win top honours at Laureus Awards But Halep, who denied any wrongdoing, was allowed to return to action after the Court of Arbitration for Sport cut her ban to nine months after accepting the Romanian's explanation that a contaminated supplement was to blame for her positive drugs test. Halep, who won the title in Madrid in 2016 and 2017, was ranked inside the top 10 when she was suspended but has since seen her ranking plummet to 1,146.

Tennis: Simona Halep withdraws from Madrid Open citing fitness issues

Kazakh fourth seed Elena Rybakina defeated Ukrainian Marta Kostyuk in straight sets to win the WTA event in Stuttgart on Sunday.

2022 Wimbledon champion Rybakina beat Kostyuk 6-2, 6-2 in one hour nine minutes, ending the 21-year-old Ukrainian's giant-killing run at the tournament.

The world number four broke Kostyuk twice in the first set and twice in the second, fighting off three break points from the world number 27 to lift her eighth career title.

Rybakina how holds a 2-1 record against Kostyuk.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-casper-ruud-beats-stefanos-tsitsipas-to-win-maiden-barcelona-open-713662">Tennis: Casper Ruud beats Stefanos Tsitsipas to win maiden Barcelona Open</a>

"I want to congratulate Marta for a great tournament. You're playing really well and hopefully we play many more finals," Rybakina said. "The crowd, guys, it was an unbelievable week. It was nice to play every match here and fight. Your energy gives a lot during these tough matches."

The title is her third of 2024, having already won in Brisbane and Abu Dhabi and it is the first time she has won three WTA titles in one year.

Sunday's victory was also the 24-year-old's third title win on clay in her career.

Rybakina needed to overcome world number one Iga Swiatek in Saturday's semi-final.

Rybakina took three hours to overcome the four-time grand slam winner and shattering her 10-match winning streak at the tournament, which included capturing the last two titles.

Kostyuk also took the hard road to the final, beating top-10 opponents Zheng Qinwen, Coco Gauff and Marketa Vondrousova to reach Sunday's match.

"I want to congratulate Elena and her team. She's had an amazing couple of seasons and it's always a pleasure playing against you," Kostyuk said after the match.

Kazakh fourth seed Elena Rybakina defeated Ukrainian Marta Kostyuk in straight sets to win the WTA event in Stuttgart on Sunday. 2022 Wimbledon champion Rybakina beat Kostyuk 6-2, 6-2 in one hour nine minutes, ending the 21-year-old Ukrainian's giant-killing run at the tournament.

Kazakh fourth seed Elena Rybakina defeated Ukrainian Marta Kostyuk in straight sets to win the WTA event in Stuttgart on Sunday. 2022 Wimbledon champion Rybakina beat Kostyuk 6-2, 6-2 in one hour nine minutes, ending the 21-year-old Ukrainian's giant-killing run at the tournament. The world number four broke Kostyuk twice in the first set and twice in the second, fighting off three break points from the world number 27 to lift her eighth career title. Rybakina how holds a 2-1 record against Kostyuk. ALSO READ: Tennis: Casper Ruud beats Stefanos Tsitsipas to win maiden Barcelona Open "I want to congratulate Marta for a great tournament. You're playing really well and hopefully we play many more finals," Rybakina said. "The crowd, guys, it was an unbelievable week. It was nice to play every match here and fight. Your energy gives a lot during these tough matches." The title is her third of 2024, having already won in Brisbane and Abu Dhabi and it is the first time she has won three WTA titles in one year. Sunday's victory was also the 24-year-old's third title win on clay in her career. Rybakina needed to overcome world number one Iga Swiatek in Saturday's semi-final. Rybakina took three hours to overcome the four-time grand slam winner and shattering her 10-match winning streak at the tournament, which included capturing the last two titles. Kostyuk also took the hard road to the final, beating top-10 opponents Zheng Qinwen, Coco Gauff and Marketa Vondrousova to reach Sunday's match. "I want to congratulate Elena and her team. She's had an amazing couple of seasons and it's always a pleasure playing against you," Kostyuk said after the match.

Elena Rybakina strolls past Marta Kostyuk in straight sets to lift Stuttgart Open title

World number six Casper Ruud defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas 7-5, 6-3 to win the Barcelona Open on Sunday, the biggest title of his career.

The Norwegian earned revenge after his defeat by the Greek world number seven in the Monte Carlo Masters final last weekend.

Ruud, a three-time Grand Slam runner-up, had won 10 titles at 250 level with the 500-ranked clay-court event in Barcelona his 11th career triumph.

"For me it means a lot, this is my biggest title that I ever won in my career, it's something I've chased for a long time already," Ruud told Teledeporte. "I've never won a 500 before or a 1000, I've been to a few finals but always came up a little bit short."

"I didn't start great during the match but luckily I was able to come back in and play really well in the end of the first and the second set."

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The 25-year-old leads the tour with 29 wins this year but had lost in three finals before wrapping up his first title of 2024 when Tsitsipas, who lacked his usual spark, went long.

"The last six, seven months I've taken a few steps in the right direction in my game and I'm glad it's paying off," added Ruud.

Ruud conceded a break in the opening game, which Tsitsipas consolidated for 2-0, giving the chance of a repeat of his first-set collapse in the Monte Carlo final.

However Ruud stayed calm and broke back in the sixth game with a passing shot the Greek could not control.

The Norwegian brought up two set points at 6-5 up, clinching it with a break when Tsitsipas erred at the net.

<h2>- 'Too good' -</h2>

Two-time Grand Slam runner-up Tsitsipas slapped a forehand into the net to concede the first break of the second set and Ruud then held to open up a 4-1 lead.

Tsitsipas saved two break points in the sixth game to give himself a chance of a comeback, but could not match Ruud's energy after two draining three-set matches in his run to the final.

Ruud's 91-minute victory ended a 10-match winning streak for Tsitsipas.

"I wasn't playing my best tennis this week in Barcelona... throughout the whole week I didn't feel like my shots had the same effect as they did in Monte Carlo," said Tsitsipas. "Today it felt like I didn't have the mental capacity to even fight. Even if I wanted to push myself to fight, Casper was just too good today."

Tsitsipas blamed the Catalan clay for taking the edge off his shots but said the courts at the Madrid Open where he will compete next week are a better fit for his game.

"The environment in Madrid has shown in the past that it suits me and it's a place I can play well if I'm in the right mindset and committed to the game," he added.

World number six Casper Ruud defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas 7-5, 6-3 to win the Barcelona Open on Sunday, the biggest title of his career. The Norwegian earned revenge after his defeat by the Greek world number seven in the Monte Carlo Masters final last weekend.

World number six Casper Ruud defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas 7-5, 6-3 to win the Barcelona Open on Sunday, the biggest title of his career. The Norwegian earned revenge after his defeat by the Greek world number seven in the Monte Carlo Masters final last weekend. Ruud, a three-time Grand Slam runner-up, had won 10 titles at 250 level with the 500-ranked clay-court event in Barcelona his 11th career triumph. "For me it means a lot, this is my biggest title that I ever won in my career, it's something I've chased for a long time already," Ruud told Teledeporte. "I've never won a 500 before or a 1000, I've been to a few finals but always came up a little bit short." "I didn't start great during the match but luckily I was able to come back in and play really well in the end of the first and the second set." ALSO READ: Peres Jepchirchir, Mutiso Munyao bag Kenyan double in London Marathon The 25-year-old leads the tour with 29 wins this year but had lost in three finals before wrapping up his first title of 2024 when Tsitsipas, who lacked his usual spark, went long. "The last six, seven months I've taken a few steps in the right direction in my game and I'm glad it's paying off," added Ruud. Ruud conceded a break in the opening game, which Tsitsipas consolidated for 2-0, giving the chance of a repeat of his first-set collapse in the Monte Carlo final. However Ruud stayed calm and broke back in the sixth game with a passing shot the Greek could not control. The Norwegian brought up two set points at 6-5 up, clinching it with a break when Tsitsipas erred at the net. - 'Too good' - Two-time Grand Slam runner-up Tsitsipas slapped a forehand into the net to concede the first break of the second set and Ruud then held to open up a 4-1 lead. Tsitsipas saved two break points in the sixth game to give himself a chance of a comeback, but could not match Ruud's energy after two draining three-set matches in his run to the final. Ruud's 91-minute victory ended a 10-match winning streak for Tsitsipas. "I wasn't playing my best tennis this week in Barcelona... throughout the whole week I didn't feel like my shots had the same effect as they did in Monte Carlo," said Tsitsipas. "Today it felt like I didn't have the mental capacity to even fight. Even if I wanted to push myself to fight, Casper was just too good today." Tsitsipas blamed the Catalan clay for taking the edge off his shots but said the courts at the Madrid Open where he will compete next week are a better fit for his game. "The environment in Madrid has shown in the past that it suits me and it's a place I can play well if I'm in the right mindset and committed to the game," he added.

Tennis: Casper Ruud beats Stefanos Tsitsipas to win maiden Barcelona Open

World number one and record 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic will not play at the Madrid Open this week. Media reports said the 36-year-old Serbian star had pulled out of the tournament and he was not included in the draw on Monday.

The 36-year-old is yet to win a title this season and has only played in four tournaments this year, having decided to lighten his schedule.

Veteran tennis great Rafael Nadal will continue his comeback from injury in Madrid and has been pitted against 16-year-old American Darwin Blanch in the first round.

Djokovic has now pulled out of the Madrid Open three times in four years.

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The Serbian could still appear in Rome at the Italian Open before defending his French Open title from May 26.

Djokovic is a three-time champion at the two-week clay court event in the Spanish capital.

It is his second Masters 1000 withdrawal this year after skipping the Miami Open in March.

Djokovic attended Real Madrid's 3-2 win over Barcelona at the Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday and is expected to appear at the Laureus Awards in Madrid on Monday, where he is in contention to win the Sportsman of the Year trophy.

Veteran tennis great Nadal, 37, played at the Barcelona Open but was defeated in the second round by Alex de Minaur in straight sets.

If he defeats teenager Blanch then he will face Australian world number 11 De Minaur in the second round for the second week in a row.

Reigning champion and second seed Carlos Alcaraz said he was hoping to be fully fit to play in Madrid after a forearm problem and will face either Alexander Shevchenko or Arthur Rinderknech in the second round.

Jannik Sinner, second in the world rankings and top seed in Djokovic's absence, will face either Italian compatriot Lorenzo Sonego or a qualifier in the second round.

World number one and record 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic will not play at the Madrid Open this week. Media reports said the 36-year-old Serbian star had pulled out of the tournament and he was not included in the draw on Monday.

World number one and record 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic will not play at the Madrid Open this week. Media reports said the 36-year-old Serbian star had pulled out of the tournament and he was not included in the draw on Monday. The 36-year-old is yet to win a title this season and has only played in four tournaments this year, having decided to lighten his schedule. Veteran tennis great Rafael Nadal will continue his comeback from injury in Madrid and has been pitted against 16-year-old American Darwin Blanch in the first round. Djokovic has now pulled out of the Madrid Open three times in four years. ALSO READ: Paris Olympics: Australia's Mack Horton says anti-doping system failed athletes amid China furore The Serbian could still appear in Rome at the Italian Open before defending his French Open title from May 26. Djokovic is a three-time champion at the two-week clay court event in the Spanish capital. It is his second Masters 1000 withdrawal this year after skipping the Miami Open in March. Djokovic attended Real Madrid's 3-2 win over Barcelona at the Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday and is expected to appear at the Laureus Awards in Madrid on Monday, where he is in contention to win the Sportsman of the Year trophy. Veteran tennis great Nadal, 37, played at the Barcelona Open but was defeated in the second round by Alex de Minaur in straight sets. If he defeats teenager Blanch then he will face Australian world number 11 De Minaur in the second round for the second week in a row. Reigning champion and second seed Carlos Alcaraz said he was hoping to be fully fit to play in Madrid after a forearm problem and will face either Alexander Shevchenko or Arthur Rinderknech in the second round. Jannik Sinner, second in the world rankings and top seed in Djokovic's absence, will face either Italian compatriot Lorenzo Sonego or a qualifier in the second round.

Tennis: Veteran Novak Djokovic pulls out of Madrid Open, Rafael Nadal to face American teen

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