Qualifiers Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova and Anna Kalinskaya pulled off upset wins against seeded opponents in the first round of the Adelaide International on Monday. In the opening centre court match of the warm-up event for the Australian Open, which runs from Jan. 14-28, 2021 French Open finalist Pavlyuchenkova ousted fifth seed Beatriz Haddad Maia 6-3 6-4.

"I know (she is) a great fighter and (what) if you give her a little bit of a chance to come back," Russian Pavlyuchenkova said of her Brazilian opponent. "So I knew I had to be 200 percent against her, and I'm happy it worked," said Pavlyuchenkova, who fired 26 winners compared to Haddad Maia's 13.

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Kalinskaya fought for nearly three hours before outplaying fourth seed Barbora Krejcikova 7-5 3-6 7-5. Krejcikova broke Kalinskaya in the opening game of the third set and raced to a 3-1 lead before the Russian staged a remarkable comeback, cashing in on her third match point to seal victory.

"It was a great match, (Krejcikova is) a very good fighter," Kalinskaya said after her win. "She plays incredible tennis, she knows how to hit every shot, she made the match very complicated." Marta Kostyuk won her all-Ukrainian clash with Anhelina Kalinina 7-6(3) 6-1.

Qualifiers Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova and Anna Kalinskaya pulled off upset wins against seeded opponents in the first round of the Adelaide International on Monday.

Qualifiers Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova and Anna Kalinskaya pulled off upset wins against seeded opponents in the first round of the Adelaide International on Monday. In the opening centre court match of the warm-up event for the Australian Open, which runs from Jan. 14-28, 2021 French Open finalist Pavlyuchenkova ousted fifth seed Beatriz Haddad Maia 6-3 6-4. "I know (she is) a great fighter and (what) if you give her a little bit of a chance to come back," Russian Pavlyuchenkova said of her Brazilian opponent. "So I knew I had to be 200 percent against her, and I'm happy it worked," said Pavlyuchenkova, who fired 26 winners compared to Haddad Maia's 13. Also read: Green Bay Packers, Tampa Bay Buccaneers clinch playoff spot, Jaguars crash out Kalinskaya fought for nearly three hours before outplaying fourth seed Barbora Krejcikova 7-5 3-6 7-5. Krejcikova broke Kalinskaya in the opening game of the third set and raced to a 3-1 lead before the Russian staged a remarkable comeback, cashing in on her third match point to seal victory. "It was a great match, (Krejcikova is) a very good fighter," Kalinskaya said after her win. "She plays incredible tennis, she knows how to hit every shot, she made the match very complicated." Marta Kostyuk won her all-Ukrainian clash with Anhelina Kalinina 7-6(3) 6-1.

Tennis: Qualifiers Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova, Anna Kalinskaya pull off upsets in Adelaide

Spaniard Rafael Nadal has pulled out of upcoming Australia Open tournament with an injury suffered during the Brisbane International where he lost in the quarter-final on January 5. The Australia Open, which marks the start of Tennis calendar, begins on January 14.

Nadal had recently made the return to competitive tennis in the Brisbane tournament after spending around an year away with an injury. He had suffered from a hip flexor problem at the 2023 Australia Open and had been away since.

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The 22-time grand slam winner&nbsp;made a comeback at Brisbane but suffered a muscle injury during his last match against Jordan Thompson.

Informing about his situation on the social media platform X, Nadal wrote: "Hi all, during my last match in Brisbane I had a small problem on a muscle that as you know made me worried. Once I got to Melbourne I have had the chance to make an MRI and I have micro tear on a muscle, not in the same part where I had the injury and that’s good news. Right now I am not ready to compete at the maximum level of exigence in 5 sets matches. I’m flying back to Spain to see my doctor, get some treatment and rest."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Hi all, during my last match in Brisbane I had a small problem on a muscle that as you know made me worried. Once I got to Melbourne I have had the chance to make an MRI and I have micro tear on a muscle, not in the same part where I had the injury and that’s good news. 
Right… <a href="https://t.co/WpApfzjf3C">pic.twitter.com/WpApfzjf3C</a>
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal/status/1743922671312867675?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"I have worked very hard during the year for this comeback and as I always mentioned my goal is to be at my best level in 3 months.&nbsp;Within the sad news for me for not being able to play in front of the amazing Melbourne crowds, this is not very bad news and we all remain positive with the evolution for the season. I really wanted to play here in Australia and I have had the chance to play a few matches that made me very happy and positive. 
&nbsp; 
"Thanks all for the support and see you soon! Rafa," the Spaniard added further.

Spaniard Rafael Nadal has pulled out of upcoming Australia Open tournament with an injury suffered during the Brisbane International where he lost in the quarter-final on January 5.

Spaniard Rafael Nadal has pulled out of upcoming Australia Open tournament with an injury suffered during the Brisbane International where he lost in the quarter-final on January 5. The Australia Open, which marks the start of Tennis calendar, begins on January 14. Nadal had recently made the return to competitive tennis in the Brisbane tournament after spending around an year away with an injury. He had suffered from a hip flexor problem at the 2023 Australia Open and had been away since. Also Read: Veteran boxer Mary Kom outlines 'inner hunger and drive' as most important for success The 22-time grand slam winner made a comeback at Brisbane but suffered a muscle injury during his last match against Jordan Thompson. Informing about his situation on the social media platform X, Nadal wrote: "Hi all, during my last match in Brisbane I had a small problem on a muscle that as you know made me worried. Once I got to Melbourne I have had the chance to make an MRI and I have micro tear on a muscle, not in the same part where I had the injury and that’s good news. Right now I am not ready to compete at the maximum level of exigence in 5 sets matches. I’m flying back to Spain to see my doctor, get some treatment and rest." Hi all, during my last match in Brisbane I had a small problem on a muscle that as you know made me worried. Once I got to Melbourne I have had the chance to make an MRI and I have micro tear on a muscle, not in the same part where I had the injury and that’s good news. Right… pic.twitter.com/WpApfzjf3C — Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) January 7, 2024 × "I have worked very hard during the year for this comeback and as I always mentioned my goal is to be at my best level in 3 months. Within the sad news for me for not being able to play in front of the amazing Melbourne crowds, this is not very bad news and we all remain positive with the evolution for the season. I really wanted to play here in Australia and I have had the chance to play a few matches that made me very happy and positive. "Thanks all for the support and see you soon! Rafa," the Spaniard added further.

Tennis: Rafael Nadal pulls out of Australian Open due to injury suffered in Brisbane International

Top seed Aryna Sabalenka swept past Victoria Azarenka on Saturday into a Brisbane International final against world number four Elena Rybakina, setting up a replay of last year's Australian Open decider.

Sabalenka saw off her fellow Belarusian 6-2, 6-4 while 2022 Wimbledon champion Rybakina cruised past Czech teenager Linda Noskova 6-3, 6-2.

Sabalenka leads their head-to-head 5-2, including a three-set win in the Australian Open final last year that earned her a maiden Grand Slam title.

But their clashes are usually tight, with five of the seven meetings going to three sets.

"I think we both serve really well," Sabalenka said of Rybakina.

"We both play really super aggressive tennis. I think that's why all the matches are pretty tight. We both put each other under so much pressure."

Russian-born Kazakh Rybakina put on a serving masterclass against Noskova, blasting eight aces, breaking her opponent once in the first set and twice in the second.

She has only lost 12 games on the way to the final and is yet to drop serve in a perfect build up to this year's Australian Open.

"I didn't expect I would play that well this week," said the second seed, adding that she had been sick before arriving in Brisbane.&nbsp;

"It's an amazing start to the year for me."

World number two Sabalenka has also had an impressive tournament, not dropping a set.

She broke Azarenka twice in racing through the first set in just 35 minutes.

But two-time Australian Open champion Azarenka was better in the second and matched her younger rival until serving at 4-5 when she appeared to jar her knee.

She lost power in her serve and Sabalenka broke to take the match in 1hr 29min.

Azarenka later denied there was a problem with her knee, saying she instead had an issue with her side throughout the match.

"From the beginning of the match I wasn't able to do what I wanted with my serves," she said. "I definitely need a little rest and then I'll be getting ready for the Australian Open."

In the men's draw, top seed Holger Rune will play second seed Grigor Dimitrov in the final after the Dane beat Russia's Roman Safiullin 6-4, 7-6 (7/0).

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Rune, the world number eight, was able to absorb the big-hitting of Safiullin, who hit 27 clean winners but also made 28 unforced errors.

After Rune broke Safiullin's opening service game and won the first set, the Russian had the better of the second set but collapsed in the tiebreak.

"It's been a great week so far," Rune said.

"Playing some good matches against some great players. I'm excited for tomorrow and then Melbourne."

Dimitrov eased through by seeing off Australian Jordan Thompson, who beat Rafael Nadal in the three-and-a-half hour marathon on Friday night.

Thompson fought hard once again, but Dimitrov broke him once in each set to win 6-3, 7-5.

Top seed Aryna Sabalenka swept past Victoria Azarenka on Saturday into a Brisbane International final against world number four Elena Rybakina, setting up a replay of last year's Australian Open decider.

Top seed Aryna Sabalenka swept past Victoria Azarenka on Saturday into a Brisbane International final against world number four Elena Rybakina, setting up a replay of last year's Australian Open decider. Sabalenka saw off her fellow Belarusian 6-2, 6-4 while 2022 Wimbledon champion Rybakina cruised past Czech teenager Linda Noskova 6-3, 6-2. Sabalenka leads their head-to-head 5-2, including a three-set win in the Australian Open final last year that earned her a maiden Grand Slam title. But their clashes are usually tight, with five of the seven meetings going to three sets. "I think we both serve really well," Sabalenka said of Rybakina. "We both play really super aggressive tennis. I think that's why all the matches are pretty tight. We both put each other under so much pressure." Russian-born Kazakh Rybakina put on a serving masterclass against Noskova, blasting eight aces, breaking her opponent once in the first set and twice in the second. She has only lost 12 games on the way to the final and is yet to drop serve in a perfect build up to this year's Australian Open. "I didn't expect I would play that well this week," said the second seed, adding that she had been sick before arriving in Brisbane. "It's an amazing start to the year for me." World number two Sabalenka has also had an impressive tournament, not dropping a set. She broke Azarenka twice in racing through the first set in just 35 minutes. But two-time Australian Open champion Azarenka was better in the second and matched her younger rival until serving at 4-5 when she appeared to jar her knee. She lost power in her serve and Sabalenka broke to take the match in 1hr 29min. Azarenka later denied there was a problem with her knee, saying she instead had an issue with her side throughout the match. "From the beginning of the match I wasn't able to do what I wanted with my serves," she said. "I definitely need a little rest and then I'll be getting ready for the Australian Open." In the men's draw, top seed Holger Rune will play second seed Grigor Dimitrov in the final after the Dane beat Russia's Roman Safiullin 6-4, 7-6 (7/0). ALSO READ | Retired David Warner 'looking forward' to his new role as commentator during India Test series Rune, the world number eight, was able to absorb the big-hitting of Safiullin, who hit 27 clean winners but also made 28 unforced errors. After Rune broke Safiullin's opening service game and won the first set, the Russian had the better of the second set but collapsed in the tiebreak. "It's been a great week so far," Rune said. "Playing some good matches against some great players. I'm excited for tomorrow and then Melbourne." Dimitrov eased through by seeing off Australian Jordan Thompson, who beat Rafael Nadal in the three-and-a-half hour marathon on Friday night. Thompson fought hard once again, but Dimitrov broke him once in each set to win 6-3, 7-5.

Tennis: Aryna Sabalenka, Elena Rybakina set up Australian Open final rematch at Brisbane International

Spanish great Rafael Nadal's comeback to tennis came to an end when he lost a 3hr 25min marathon quarter-final to Australian Jordan Thompson at the Brisbane International on Friday.

Thompson saved three match points in the second set before overcoming an increasingly fatigued Nadal 5-7, 7-6 (8/6), 6-3 in a gruelling encounter that finished just before midnight on Pat Rafter Arena.

Thompson booked a semi-final against Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov with the win, while at the same time throwing a spanner in the works of Nadal's Australian Open preparations.

Nadal said he had plenty of chances to win, but just couldn't take them.

"I think he played a good match. For me, it was not the best match, I had a lot of opportunities to win it," he said.&nbsp;

"I need to accept that. After a year (of not playing), that's normal."

Playing his first tournament after almost 12 months away from the sport through injury, Nadal appeared headed for a straight sets win.

But an inspired Thompson refused to go away and took advantage of some unforced errors from the Spaniard to clinch the second set.

Nadal, who was broken early in the third set, took a medical time out at 1-4 down after appearing to need treatment to his upper left thigh.

He was able to continue but was unable to break back and Thompson held on to the delight of the capacity crowd.

Nadal said he wouldn't know how bad the injury was until the next day.

"A lot of things can happen in a body like my body after a year without playing tennis," he said. "So hopefully it is just a muscle that is supercharged."

Thompson said he was so wrapped up in the match he couldn't remember a key moment.

"I completely forgot I saved match points," Thompson said.&nbsp;

"To beat Rafa in Brisbane in a quarter-final, and I think it is now my first semi-final on a hard court, I couldn't be happier."

Thompson will now play second seed Dimitrov after the Bulgarian's 6-1, 6-4 victory over Australian Rinky Hijikata.

The second semi-final sees top seeded Dane Holger Rune up against Russian Roman Safiullin.

Rune looked in great touch as he downed Australian qualifier James Duckworth 6-2, 7-6 (8/6), while unseeded Safiullin beat Italy's Matteo Arnaldi 7-6 (7/4), 6-2.

Nadal had gone into his quarter-final against Thompson in superb touch following relatively easy wins in his opening two rounds.

But Thompson, the world number 55, ensured that the Spaniard wouldn't have it all his own way, returning well throughout to constantly pressure Nadal's serve.

Despite losing his serve for the first time this tournament at 3-3 in the opener, Nadal was able to break Thompson twice to clinch a tight first set in 70 minutes.

Thompson threw everything at Nadal in the second set, playing some superb tennis, but the Spaniard was able to somehow absorb the pressure.

It looked like vintage Nadal as he turned the screws in the tiebreak, opening a 3-0 lead.

But Thompson came back to level at 3-3, then saved two match points at 6-4 down, clinching the set in 83 minutes.

Nadal began to look tired at the start of third set, in contrast to the Australian, and it came as no surprise&nbsp;when he was broken early in the third, with Thompson comfortably holding on.

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<h2>Sabalenka fires warning</h2>

In the women's draw, Aryna Sabalenka fired a warning ahead of her Australian Open defence by powering into the semi-finals with a straight-sets demolition of Daria Kasatkina.

Sabalenka's 6-1, 6-4 victory was her 14th consecutive win on Australian soil after also claiming the Adelaide crown in the lead-up to last year's opening Grand Slam of the year.

The Belarusian raced through the first set against the Russian in 32 minutes, but had to fight harder in the second, breaking Kasatkina once and holding on to win the match in 1hr 26min.

Sabalenka will now play fellow Belarusian Victoria Azarenka with a 2023 Australian Open final replay against second seed Elena Rybakina a possibility for Sunday's decider.

Former Grand Slam champions Azarenka and Rybakina reached the semis in contrasting fashion.

Two-time Australian Open winner Azarenka took 2hr 30min before finally outlasting third-seeded Latvian Jelena Ostapenko 6-3, 3-6, 7-5 in the first match on Pat Rafter Arena.

Rybakina was then handed a spot in the last four when her Russian opponent Anastasia Potapova withdrew with a stomach problem after losing the first set 6-1.

Rybakina will face Linda Noskova next after the Czech player saw off 16-year-old Russian Mirra Andreeva 7-5, 6-3.

Spanish great Rafael Nadal's comeback to tennis came to an end when he lost a 3hr 25min marathon quarter-final to Australian Jordan Thompson at the Brisbane International on Friday.

Spanish great Rafael Nadal's comeback to tennis came to an end when he lost a 3hr 25min marathon quarter-final to Australian Jordan Thompson at the Brisbane International on Friday. Thompson saved three match points in the second set before overcoming an increasingly fatigued Nadal 5-7, 7-6 (8/6), 6-3 in a gruelling encounter that finished just before midnight on Pat Rafter Arena. Thompson booked a semi-final against Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov with the win, while at the same time throwing a spanner in the works of Nadal's Australian Open preparations. Nadal said he had plenty of chances to win, but just couldn't take them. "I think he played a good match. For me, it was not the best match, I had a lot of opportunities to win it," he said. "I need to accept that. After a year (of not playing), that's normal." Playing his first tournament after almost 12 months away from the sport through injury, Nadal appeared headed for a straight sets win. But an inspired Thompson refused to go away and took advantage of some unforced errors from the Spaniard to clinch the second set. Nadal, who was broken early in the third set, took a medical time out at 1-4 down after appearing to need treatment to his upper left thigh. He was able to continue but was unable to break back and Thompson held on to the delight of the capacity crowd. Nadal said he wouldn't know how bad the injury was until the next day. "A lot of things can happen in a body like my body after a year without playing tennis," he said. "So hopefully it is just a muscle that is supercharged." Thompson said he was so wrapped up in the match he couldn't remember a key moment. "I completely forgot I saved match points," Thompson said. "To beat Rafa in Brisbane in a quarter-final, and I think it is now my first semi-final on a hard court, I couldn't be happier." Thompson will now play second seed Dimitrov after the Bulgarian's 6-1, 6-4 victory over Australian Rinky Hijikata. The second semi-final sees top seeded Dane Holger Rune up against Russian Roman Safiullin. Rune looked in great touch as he downed Australian qualifier James Duckworth 6-2, 7-6 (8/6), while unseeded Safiullin beat Italy's Matteo Arnaldi 7-6 (7/4), 6-2. Nadal had gone into his quarter-final against Thompson in superb touch following relatively easy wins in his opening two rounds. But Thompson, the world number 55, ensured that the Spaniard wouldn't have it all his own way, returning well throughout to constantly pressure Nadal's serve. Despite losing his serve for the first time this tournament at 3-3 in the opener, Nadal was able to break Thompson twice to clinch a tight first set in 70 minutes. Thompson threw everything at Nadal in the second set, playing some superb tennis, but the Spaniard was able to somehow absorb the pressure. It looked like vintage Nadal as he turned the screws in the tiebreak, opening a 3-0 lead. But Thompson came back to level at 3-3, then saved two match points at 6-4 down, clinching the set in 83 minutes. Nadal began to look tired at the start of third set, in contrast to the Australian, and it came as no surprise when he was broken early in the third, with Thompson comfortably holding on. ALSO READ | Tennis: Alexander Zverev's heroics inspires Germany to United Cup semi-finals Sabalenka fires warning In the women's draw, Aryna Sabalenka fired a warning ahead of her Australian Open defence by powering into the semi-finals with a straight-sets demolition of Daria Kasatkina. Sabalenka's 6-1, 6-4 victory was her 14th consecutive win on Australian soil after also claiming the Adelaide crown in the lead-up to last year's opening Grand Slam of the year. The Belarusian raced through the first set against the Russian in 32 minutes, but had to fight harder in the second, breaking Kasatkina once and holding on to win the match in 1hr 26min. Sabalenka will now play fellow Belarusian Victoria Azarenka with a 2023 Australian Open final replay against second seed Elena Rybakina a possibility for Sunday's decider. Former Grand Slam champions Azarenka and Rybakina reached the semis in contrasting fashion. Two-time Australian Open winner Azarenka took 2hr 30min before finally outlasting third-seeded Latvian Jelena Ostapenko 6-3, 3-6, 7-5 in the first match on Pat Rafter Arena. Rybakina was then handed a spot in the last four when her Russian opponent Anastasia Potapova withdrew with a stomach problem after losing the first set 6-1. Rybakina will face Linda Noskova next after the Czech player saw off 16-year-old Russian Mirra Andreeva 7-5, 6-3.

Tennis: Rafael Nadal's comeback halted in epic encounter against Jordan Thompson in Brisbane

Alexander Zverev led Germany into the semi-finals of the United Cup on Friday after winning his singles rubber against Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas before partnering Laura Siegemund in the mixed doubles to clinch the decider. World number eight Maria Sakkari had given Greece a 1-0 lead with a 6-0 6-3 win over three-time Grand Slam champion Angelique Kerber, before Zverev defeated Tsitsipas 6-4 6-4.

With the team score tied at 1-1, Zverev returned to the court soon after to play the mixed doubles decider, where the Greek pair of Petros Tsitsipas and Sakkari were beaten 6-3 6-3. "I was taking a back seat (playing) with Laura. I think we deserve to be in the semi-finals," Zverev said.

Zverev was aggressive in the singles, doing damage with his first serve and although Australian Open runner-up Tsitsipas hit 16 winners, his 24 unforced errors allowed Zverev to cruise past the world number six. Zverev, who fell in the second round of last year's Australian Open following his comeback from an ankle injury, is hoping to progress further in the Grand Slam this year.

"Being healthy is the biggest thing for any athlete, the mindset this year is different," Zverev said. "I hope that I can stay in Australia a bit longer maybe a bit more successful, I've already won more matches this year than I did last year so I'm happy."

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Earlier, Sakkari comfortably beat Kerber, who is playing her first tournament in 18 months after a maternity break. Sakkari got off to a flying start, speeding through the first nine games of the match to take the first set and rack up a 3-0 lead in the second before Kerber was finally able to hold serve.

The hold appeared to spark Kerber into action as she broke to bring the second set back on serve at 3-2, but her brief resurgence was quickly squashed by Sakkari, who claimed her third straight singles win of the tournament. "I was pretty clinical in the first set and through 3-0 in the second, I was very solid from the baseline doing what I had to do," Sakkari said. "I knew Angie was going to find a way to come back and that she wasn't going to give up. After the first set I said there was no way the match will go super easy."

Poland take on France in the other semi-final.

Alexander Zverev led Germany into the semi-finals of the United Cup on Friday after winning his singles rubber against Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas before partnering Laura Siegemund in the mixed doubles to clinch the decider.

Alexander Zverev led Germany into the semi-finals of the United Cup on Friday after winning his singles rubber against Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas before partnering Laura Siegemund in the mixed doubles to clinch the decider. World number eight Maria Sakkari had given Greece a 1-0 lead with a 6-0 6-3 win over three-time Grand Slam champion Angelique Kerber, before Zverev defeated Tsitsipas 6-4 6-4. With the team score tied at 1-1, Zverev returned to the court soon after to play the mixed doubles decider, where the Greek pair of Petros Tsitsipas and Sakkari were beaten 6-3 6-3. "I was taking a back seat (playing) with Laura. I think we deserve to be in the semi-finals," Zverev said. Zverev was aggressive in the singles, doing damage with his first serve and although Australian Open runner-up Tsitsipas hit 16 winners, his 24 unforced errors allowed Zverev to cruise past the world number six. Zverev, who fell in the second round of last year's Australian Open following his comeback from an ankle injury, is hoping to progress further in the Grand Slam this year. "Being healthy is the biggest thing for any athlete, the mindset this year is different," Zverev said. "I hope that I can stay in Australia a bit longer maybe a bit more successful, I've already won more matches this year than I did last year so I'm happy." Also read: Coco Gauff crush Varvara Gracheva in straight sets to reach Auckland Classic semis Earlier, Sakkari comfortably beat Kerber, who is playing her first tournament in 18 months after a maternity break. Sakkari got off to a flying start, speeding through the first nine games of the match to take the first set and rack up a 3-0 lead in the second before Kerber was finally able to hold serve. The hold appeared to spark Kerber into action as she broke to bring the second set back on serve at 3-2, but her brief resurgence was quickly squashed by Sakkari, who claimed her third straight singles win of the tournament. "I was pretty clinical in the first set and through 3-0 in the second, I was very solid from the baseline doing what I had to do," Sakkari said. "I knew Angie was going to find a way to come back and that she wasn't going to give up. After the first set I said there was no way the match will go super easy." Poland take on France in the other semi-final.

Tennis: Alexander Zverev's heroics inspires Germany to United Cup semi-finals

Former U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu moved into the main draw of the Australian Open after American Lauren Davis pulled out of the year's first Grand Slam with a shoulder injury, organisers said on Wednesday.

Raducanu, who beat Elena-Gabriela Ruse at the Auckland Classic on Tuesday in her return to action following wrist and ankle surgeries, has slipped to number 301 in the world and her protected ranking was not good enough for direct entry to the Melbourne Park Grand Slam.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-ill-be-okay-novak-djokovic-remains-optimistic-despite-injury-concerns-ahead-of-australian-open-676309">Tennis: ‘I’ll be okay’ - Novak Djokovic remains optimistic despite injury concerns ahead of Australian Open</a>

The 21-year-old Briton was also overlooked for a wildcard and was set to take a similar path as her 2021 Flushing Meadows run when she became the first player in the Open Era to win a major after starting out in the qualifying rounds.

However, the exit of Davis, which followed withdrawals by Karolina Muchova, Petra Kvitova, Irina-Camelia Begu and Caty McNally, opened up a spot for Raducanu in the main draw of the Jan. 14-28 major.

Former U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu moved into the main draw of the Australian Open after American Lauren Davis pulled out of the year's first Grand Slam with a shoulder injury, organisers said on Wednesday.

Former U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu moved into the main draw of the Australian Open after American Lauren Davis pulled out of the year's first Grand Slam with a shoulder injury, organisers said on Wednesday. Raducanu, who beat Elena-Gabriela Ruse at the Auckland Classic on Tuesday in her return to action following wrist and ankle surgeries, has slipped to number 301 in the world and her protected ranking was not good enough for direct entry to the Melbourne Park Grand Slam. Also read: Tennis: ‘I’ll be okay’ - Novak Djokovic remains optimistic despite injury concerns ahead of Australian Open The 21-year-old Briton was also overlooked for a wildcard and was set to take a similar path as her 2021 Flushing Meadows run when she became the first player in the Open Era to win a major after starting out in the qualifying rounds. However, the exit of Davis, which followed withdrawals by Karolina Muchova, Petra Kvitova, Irina-Camelia Begu and Caty McNally, opened up a spot for Raducanu in the main draw of the Jan. 14-28 major.

Tennis: Emma Raducanu into Australian Open main draw after Lauren Davis' withdrawal

Rafael Nadal's comeback from injury gathered pace on Thursday as he cruised into the Brisbane International quarter-finals with an aggressive 6-1, 6-2 drubbing of Australian Jason Kubler. Played in hot and humid conditions on Pat Rafter Arena, the Spanish great took 1hr 23 min to see off Kubler, who battled hard but didn't have the weapons to trouble the 22-time Grand Slam champion.

Nadal, 37, has not played on tour since suffering an injury at the 2023 Australian Open a year ago, resulting in two surgeries on his hip. He said leading into the tournament he had no expectations for the Australian summer.

But the form he showed against former US Open champion Dominic Thiem in the first round and now Kubler suggests he could be a real threat at the first Grand Slam of the year at Melbourne Park. He raced to a 5-0 lead in the first set before Kubler got on the board, then&nbsp;broke the Australian's opening game of the second to stamp his authority on the match.

"I started the match playing very well, with very good determination," Nadal said. "I tried to be aggressive from the baseline and I think it worked very well. "I think it was a very positive match for me. Two victories after a long time being outside the professional tour is something that makes me feel good."

The only real blemish for the Spaniard was a warning for a time violation for taking too long to return to court after a bathroom break at the end of the first set. He later explained the humidity was so high that he had to do a complete change of clothes and was four seconds longer than he should have been.

Nadal will next play Australian Jordan Thompson in the quarter-finals and remains on course for a blockbuster semi-final against second-seeded Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov, who demolished Germany's Daniel Altmaier 6-1, 6-2.

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<h2>- Ostapenko beats heat -</h2>

Dimitrov served beautifully and pressured Altmaier with some devastating groundstrokes on his way to a comprehensive victory in just 67 minutes. Dimitrov next meets Australian wildcard Rinky Hijikata, who bounced back from losing the first set to see off Czech qualifier Tomas Machac 5-7, 6-2, 7-6 (7/4).

In the women's draw, Latvia's Jelena Ostapenko ended Karolina Pliskova's title defence when she downed the Czech star 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 to book a quarter-final against Victoria Azarenka. The 26-year-old former French Open champion needed assistance from the trainer during the third set as she struggled with the heat and humidity.

But she managed to recover enough to overcome Pliskova in 2hr 13min. "It was very, very humid and at one point I had really low energy," the third-seeded Ostapenko said. "I'm coming from winter where it's minus 15 right now and here it's 35 degrees."

Former world number one Azarenka survived a stern challenge from unheralded Frenchwoman Clara Burel before winning 7-5, 6-2. Second seed Elena Rybakina looked in superb touch as she beat Elise Mertens 6-1, 6-0, while there were also wins for the Czech Republic's Linda Noskova and 16-year-old rising star Mirra Andreeva.

Rafael Nadal's comeback from injury gathered pace on Thursday as he cruised into the Brisbane International quarter-finals with an aggressive 6-1, 6-2 drubbing of Australian Jason Kubler.

Rafael Nadal's comeback from injury gathered pace on Thursday as he cruised into the Brisbane International quarter-finals with an aggressive 6-1, 6-2 drubbing of Australian Jason Kubler. Played in hot and humid conditions on Pat Rafter Arena, the Spanish great took 1hr 23 min to see off Kubler, who battled hard but didn't have the weapons to trouble the 22-time Grand Slam champion. Nadal, 37, has not played on tour since suffering an injury at the 2023 Australian Open a year ago, resulting in two surgeries on his hip. He said leading into the tournament he had no expectations for the Australian summer. But the form he showed against former US Open champion Dominic Thiem in the first round and now Kubler suggests he could be a real threat at the first Grand Slam of the year at Melbourne Park. He raced to a 5-0 lead in the first set before Kubler got on the board, then broke the Australian's opening game of the second to stamp his authority on the match. "I started the match playing very well, with very good determination," Nadal said. "I tried to be aggressive from the baseline and I think it worked very well. "I think it was a very positive match for me. Two victories after a long time being outside the professional tour is something that makes me feel good." The only real blemish for the Spaniard was a warning for a time violation for taking too long to return to court after a bathroom break at the end of the first set. He later explained the humidity was so high that he had to do a complete change of clothes and was four seconds longer than he should have been. Nadal will next play Australian Jordan Thompson in the quarter-finals and remains on course for a blockbuster semi-final against second-seeded Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov, who demolished Germany's Daniel Altmaier 6-1, 6-2. Also read: Tennis: Emma Raducanu into Australian Open main draw after Lauren Davis' withdrawal - Ostapenko beats heat - Dimitrov served beautifully and pressured Altmaier with some devastating groundstrokes on his way to a comprehensive victory in just 67 minutes. Dimitrov next meets Australian wildcard Rinky Hijikata, who bounced back from losing the first set to see off Czech qualifier Tomas Machac 5-7, 6-2, 7-6 (7/4). In the women's draw, Latvia's Jelena Ostapenko ended Karolina Pliskova's title defence when she downed the Czech star 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 to book a quarter-final against Victoria Azarenka. The 26-year-old former French Open champion needed assistance from the trainer during the third set as she struggled with the heat and humidity. But she managed to recover enough to overcome Pliskova in 2hr 13min. "It was very, very humid and at one point I had really low energy," the third-seeded Ostapenko said. "I'm coming from winter where it's minus 15 right now and here it's 35 degrees." Former world number one Azarenka survived a stern challenge from unheralded Frenchwoman Clara Burel before winning 7-5, 6-2. Second seed Elena Rybakina looked in superb touch as she beat Elise Mertens 6-1, 6-0, while there were also wins for the Czech Republic's Linda Noskova and 16-year-old rising star Mirra Andreeva.

Tennis: Rafael Nadal overpowers Jason Kubler to reach Brisbane International quarters

World number one Novak Djokovic remains optimistic of his fitness despite a wrist injury preventing him from being at his best during his recent 4-6, 4-6&nbsp;loss to Australia's Alex de Minaur in the United Cup on Wednesday (Jan 3). With the victory,&nbsp;De Minaur put the hosts on course for a 2-0 win over Serbia in their United Cup quarter-final.&nbsp;This also became the Serbian's first-ever loss in Australia in six years. As the Australian Open is set to kick off on Jan 14, all eyes are on Djokovic's fitness but the 36-year-old has ruled out any major concerns.

After the defeat, Djokovic told in a press conference, "I knew that probably, (I was) not going to be at 100% physically, emotionally, mentally game-wise in the opening week of a season. Neither did I expect that."

"I was not on my level but it was just one of these days where I didn't feel my best on the court, and (my) opponent played very well," he further stated.

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<h2>'I have plenty of time to get&nbsp;in&nbsp;right shape for the Australian Open'</h2>

Djokovic added, "I think I'll be okay, to be honest. (The wrist injury) did have quite an impact, particularly on the forehand and serve. (But) I have plenty of time, I think enough time to get myself in the right shape for the Australian Open.

"The process is not strange to me. It's not unusual. I've been in this kind of situation so many times and I know what I need to do along with my team to get myself ready... I hope that I will not be injured this time around. That's what we're going to work on, to get my body in the right shape, optimal state, so that I can perform at the high level throughout hopefully the entire Australian Open," he concluded.

Djokovic has won the Australian Open most times by any male player (10). He defeated Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas in last year's final, 6–3, 7–6, 7–6. This time around, he will fight for his 11th trophy Down Under and hope to clinch his 25th Grand Slam title overall. He has the most Grand Slam titles in men's singles (24) with three of them coming in a memorable 2023.

World number one Novak Djokovic remains optimistic of his fitness despite a wrist injury preventing him from being at his best during his recent 4-6, 4-6 loss to Australia's Alex de Minaur in the United Cup on Wednesday (Jan 3).

World number one Novak Djokovic remains optimistic of his fitness despite a wrist injury preventing him from being at his best during his recent 4-6, 4-6 loss to Australia's Alex de Minaur in the United Cup on Wednesday (Jan 3). With the victory, De Minaur put the hosts on course for a 2-0 win over Serbia in their United Cup quarter-final. This also became the Serbian's first-ever loss in Australia in six years. As the Australian Open is set to kick off on Jan 14, all eyes are on Djokovic's fitness but the 36-year-old has ruled out any major concerns. After the defeat, Djokovic told in a press conference, "I knew that probably, (I was) not going to be at 100% physically, emotionally, mentally game-wise in the opening week of a season. Neither did I expect that." "I was not on my level but it was just one of these days where I didn't feel my best on the court, and (my) opponent played very well," he further stated. Also read: Tennis: Alex De Minaur snaps Novak Djokovic’s run in Australia with United Cup shock 'I have plenty of time to get in right shape for the Australian Open' Djokovic added, "I think I'll be okay, to be honest. (The wrist injury) did have quite an impact, particularly on the forehand and serve. (But) I have plenty of time, I think enough time to get myself in the right shape for the Australian Open. "The process is not strange to me. It's not unusual. I've been in this kind of situation so many times and I know what I need to do along with my team to get myself ready... I hope that I will not be injured this time around. That's what we're going to work on, to get my body in the right shape, optimal state, so that I can perform at the high level throughout hopefully the entire Australian Open," he concluded. Djokovic has won the Australian Open most times by any male player (10). He defeated Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas in last year's final, 6–3, 7–6, 7–6. This time around, he will fight for his 11th trophy Down Under and hope to clinch his 25th Grand Slam title overall. He has the most Grand Slam titles in men's singles (24) with three of them coming in a memorable 2023.

Tennis: ‘I’ll be okay’ - Novak Djokovic remains optimistic despite injury concerns ahead of Australian Open

Defending champion Karolina Pliskova used her big serve to full advantage to end Naomi Osaka's return to tennis in the second round of the Brisbane International on Wednesday.

Pliskova, who won the tournament the last time it was held in 2020, bounced back from losing the first set to grind down the Japanese star 3-6, 7-6 (7/4), 6-4.

Four-time Grand Slam champion Osaka&nbsp;had not played a tournament since September 2022, citing mental health concerns.

She had a baby daughter in July before deciding to make a comeback.

After an impressive first-round win over Germany's Tamara Korpatsch, Osaka started strongly against the 39th-ranked Pliskova, breaking the Czech's opening service game.

Pliskova, a two-time Grand Slam finalist, levelled but Osaka broke again to take a 4-2 lead then held on to bank the opening set.

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The momentum began to shift in the second set as the tall Pliskova began to find the mark with her serve.

She won the second set tiebreak then got an early break in the third, holding on with ease to take the match in 2hr 13min.

"I thought I played quite well -- there are a lot of things to improve but it's a good start," said Pliskova, adding that after a first-round bye and having not played since September, she needed time to find her feet.

"You can practise as much as you want but in matches it's always a little bit different," she said.

"It's been a long break but I've been doing this sport for many, many years.

"I've been training for a couple of months and I think I'm in pretty good shape."

Defending champion Karolina Pliskova used her big serve to full advantage to end Naomi Osaka's return to tennis in the second round of the Brisbane International on Wednesday.

Defending champion Karolina Pliskova used her big serve to full advantage to end Naomi Osaka's return to tennis in the second round of the Brisbane International on Wednesday. Pliskova, who won the tournament the last time it was held in 2020, bounced back from losing the first set to grind down the Japanese star 3-6, 7-6 (7/4), 6-4. Four-time Grand Slam champion Osaka had not played a tournament since September 2022, citing mental health concerns. She had a baby daughter in July before deciding to make a comeback. After an impressive first-round win over Germany's Tamara Korpatsch, Osaka started strongly against the 39th-ranked Pliskova, breaking the Czech's opening service game. Pliskova, a two-time Grand Slam finalist, levelled but Osaka broke again to take a 4-2 lead then held on to bank the opening set. ALSO READ | AUS vs PAK: Waqar Younis blasts Pakistan team management for resting Shaheen Afridi in Sydney Test The momentum began to shift in the second set as the tall Pliskova began to find the mark with her serve. She won the second set tiebreak then got an early break in the third, holding on with ease to take the match in 2hr 13min. "I thought I played quite well -- there are a lot of things to improve but it's a good start," said Pliskova, adding that after a first-round bye and having not played since September, she needed time to find her feet. "You can practise as much as you want but in matches it's always a little bit different," she said. "It's been a long break but I've been doing this sport for many, many years. "I've been training for a couple of months and I think I'm in pretty good shape."

Tennis: Naomi Osaka's Brisbane comeback ended by big-serving Karolina Pliskova

Novak Djokovic crashed to his first defeat of the season and first in Australia for six years with a stunning 6-4 6-4 loss to Alex de Minaur who gave Australia a 1-0 lead over Serbia in their United Cup quarter-final on Wednesday. Djokovic was hampered by a right wrist problem in Serbia's victory over Czech Republic on Tuesday and the world number one had it worked on again by a trainer before De Minaur earned a late break and went on to clinch the opening set.

Australian Open champion Djokovic dropped serve yet again to hand De Minaur a 4-3 advantage in the second set and saved three match points later, but was unable to prevent the shock loss ahead of the year's first Grand Slam later this month.

Djokovic was on a 43-match winning run in Australia and preparing for a tilt at an 11th Melbourne Park title having last lost in the country to Chung Hyeon in the fourth round of the 2018 edition when he was plagued by an elbow issue.

"It's extremely special," world number 12 De Minaur said after the biggest win of his career. "Novak's an unbelievable competitor and what he's done for the sport is pretty special. "It feels surreal, it feels amazing and I'm happy to do it here in Perth and in Australia. "Ultimately when you go against Novak, you've just got to go out there, try and enjoy, back yourself and no matter what, keep fighting till the end. Today was my day. I'm happy I was able to get the win. This one definitely means a lot."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-naomi-osakas-brisbane-comeback-ended-by-big-serving-karolina-pliskova-676067">Tennis: Naomi Osaka's Brisbane comeback ended by big-serving Karolina Pliskova</a>

Top seeds Poland earlier beat China to reach the semi-finals of the 18-team event after the big-hitting Hubert Hurkacz eased past Zhang Zhizhen 6-3 6-4 and Iga Swiatek fought back from 2-0 down in the first set to beat Zheng Qinwen 6-2 6-3.

It was Swiatek's third straight singles victory in the event which the world number one is using to prepare for this month's Australian Open.

Caroline Garcia and Adrian Mannarino guided France into the quarter-finals with a victory over Italy. World number 20 Garcia beat Jasmine Paolini 6-4 5-7 6-4 after Mannarino beat Lorenzo Sonego 6-4 6-4 in the Group D tie.

Greece took a 1-0 lead over Canada in Group B as Australian Open runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas won his first singles match of the season by beating Steven Diez 6-2 6-3. The Australian Open runs from on Jan. 14-28.

Novak Djokovic crashed to his first defeat of the season and first in Australia for six years with a stunning 6-4 6-4 loss to Alex de Minaur who gave Australia a 1-0 lead over Serbia in their United Cup quarter-final on Wednesday.

Novak Djokovic crashed to his first defeat of the season and first in Australia for six years with a stunning 6-4 6-4 loss to Alex de Minaur who gave Australia a 1-0 lead over Serbia in their United Cup quarter-final on Wednesday. Djokovic was hampered by a right wrist problem in Serbia's victory over Czech Republic on Tuesday and the world number one had it worked on again by a trainer before De Minaur earned a late break and went on to clinch the opening set. Australian Open champion Djokovic dropped serve yet again to hand De Minaur a 4-3 advantage in the second set and saved three match points later, but was unable to prevent the shock loss ahead of the year's first Grand Slam later this month. Djokovic was on a 43-match winning run in Australia and preparing for a tilt at an 11th Melbourne Park title having last lost in the country to Chung Hyeon in the fourth round of the 2018 edition when he was plagued by an elbow issue. "It's extremely special," world number 12 De Minaur said after the biggest win of his career. "Novak's an unbelievable competitor and what he's done for the sport is pretty special. "It feels surreal, it feels amazing and I'm happy to do it here in Perth and in Australia. "Ultimately when you go against Novak, you've just got to go out there, try and enjoy, back yourself and no matter what, keep fighting till the end. Today was my day. I'm happy I was able to get the win. This one definitely means a lot." Also read: Tennis: Naomi Osaka's Brisbane comeback ended by big-serving Karolina Pliskova Top seeds Poland earlier beat China to reach the semi-finals of the 18-team event after the big-hitting Hubert Hurkacz eased past Zhang Zhizhen 6-3 6-4 and Iga Swiatek fought back from 2-0 down in the first set to beat Zheng Qinwen 6-2 6-3. It was Swiatek's third straight singles victory in the event which the world number one is using to prepare for this month's Australian Open. Caroline Garcia and Adrian Mannarino guided France into the quarter-finals with a victory over Italy. World number 20 Garcia beat Jasmine Paolini 6-4 5-7 6-4 after Mannarino beat Lorenzo Sonego 6-4 6-4 in the Group D tie. Greece took a 1-0 lead over Canada in Group B as Australian Open runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas won his first singles match of the season by beating Steven Diez 6-2 6-3. The Australian Open runs from on Jan. 14-28.

Tennis: Alex De Minaur snaps Novak Djokovic’s run in Australia with United Cup shock

Rafael Nadal is back. The 22-time grand slam champion beat Dominic Thiem on his singles return- his first match since January 2023. The Spaniard beat the 2020 US Open Champion 7-5, 6-1 to reach the second round of the Brisbane International.

Rafael Nadal wins on singles return

Rafael Nadal marked his singles comeback after being out injured for nearly a year with a convincing 7-5 6-1 victory over Austrian former world number three Dominic Thiem in the Brisbane International first round on Tuesday.

The 22-times Grand Slam champion had arthroscopic surgery last June after injuring his left hip flexor during his second round defeat by Mackenzie McDonald at the Australian Open in early 2023. Nadal returned to competitive tennis in the new season on Sunday and crashed to a doubles defeat while partnering retired veteran Marc Lopez but showed glimpses of his top form ahead of the Jan. 14-28 Melbourne Park major.

"Today is honestly an emotional and important day for me after probably one of the toughest years of my tennis career," Nadal said. "I had the chance to come back after a year and play in front of an amazing crowd and play at a very positive level on the first day is something that makes us feel proud - my team and family who have been there every day in the last year."

The 37-year-old looked razor sharp again during his latest meeting with qualifier Thiem in a rematch of their 2018 and 2019 French Open finals which he won, as he ramped up the pressure and claimed the opening set with a break.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-world-number-one-novak-djokovic-hampered-by-wrist-issue-at-united-cup-675812">Tennis: World number one Novak Djokovic hampered by wrist issue at United Cup</a>

Roared on by fans inside a heaving Pat Rafter Arena, Nadal grabbed an early break in the second set with a superb backhand pass and barely looked back as he racked up a 5-1 lead before closing out the match on serve.

"I missed being healthy an feeling competitive, playing in front of full crowds that have been amazing all my career here in Australia," Nadal added. "I can't thank everyone enough."

Nadal's 1,069th men's tour-level victory meant he surpassed Ivan Lendl to sit fourth in the all-time list. "As you can imagine, today it wasn't a statistic I was aware of," Nadal said. "I had enough work just to be focused and come back on court and remember how to play in a competitive match. There were nerves and doubts before the match. "But things went well and I'm excited to be back."

In the women's draw, Arina Rodionova overcame 2020 Australian Open winner Sofia Kenin 7-5 7-6(7) while double Melbourne Park champion Victoria Azarenka beat Anna Kalinskaya 6-1 7-6(8). U.S. Open holder Coco Gauff started her new season with a victory at the Auckland Classic as the 19-year-old defending champion beat fellow American Claire Liu 6-4 6-2.

Gauff, who is looking to improve on last year's fourth-round finish at the Melbourne Park, next plays world number 117 Brenda Fruhvirtova after the Czech 16-year-old defeated Anna Blinkova 7-5 6-4.

Second seed Elina Svitolina eased to a 6-4 6-3 victory over Caroline Wozniacki and next meets 2021 U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu who returned following wrist and ankle surgeries to beat Elena-Gabriela Ruse 6-3 4-6 7-5.

Rafael Nadal marked his singles comeback after being out injured for nearly a year with a convincing 7-5 6-1 victory over Austrian former world number three Dominic Thiem in the Brisbane International first round on Tuesday.

Rafael Nadal marked his singles comeback after being out injured for nearly a year with a convincing 7-5 6-1 victory over Austrian former world number three Dominic Thiem in the Brisbane International first round on Tuesday. The 22-times Grand Slam champion had arthroscopic surgery last June after injuring his left hip flexor during his second round defeat by Mackenzie McDonald at the Australian Open in early 2023. Nadal returned to competitive tennis in the new season on Sunday and crashed to a doubles defeat while partnering retired veteran Marc Lopez but showed glimpses of his top form ahead of the Jan. 14-28 Melbourne Park major. "Today is honestly an emotional and important day for me after probably one of the toughest years of my tennis career," Nadal said. "I had the chance to come back after a year and play in front of an amazing crowd and play at a very positive level on the first day is something that makes us feel proud - my team and family who have been there every day in the last year." The 37-year-old looked razor sharp again during his latest meeting with qualifier Thiem in a rematch of their 2018 and 2019 French Open finals which he won, as he ramped up the pressure and claimed the opening set with a break. Also read: Tennis: World number one Novak Djokovic hampered by wrist issue at United Cup Roared on by fans inside a heaving Pat Rafter Arena, Nadal grabbed an early break in the second set with a superb backhand pass and barely looked back as he racked up a 5-1 lead before closing out the match on serve. "I missed being healthy an feeling competitive, playing in front of full crowds that have been amazing all my career here in Australia," Nadal added. "I can't thank everyone enough." Nadal's 1,069th men's tour-level victory meant he surpassed Ivan Lendl to sit fourth in the all-time list. "As you can imagine, today it wasn't a statistic I was aware of," Nadal said. "I had enough work just to be focused and come back on court and remember how to play in a competitive match. There were nerves and doubts before the match. "But things went well and I'm excited to be back." In the women's draw, Arina Rodionova overcame 2020 Australian Open winner Sofia Kenin 7-5 7-6(7) while double Melbourne Park champion Victoria Azarenka beat Anna Kalinskaya 6-1 7-6(8). U.S. Open holder Coco Gauff started her new season with a victory at the Auckland Classic as the 19-year-old defending champion beat fellow American Claire Liu 6-4 6-2. Gauff, who is looking to improve on last year's fourth-round finish at the Melbourne Park, next plays world number 117 Brenda Fruhvirtova after the Czech 16-year-old defeated Anna Blinkova 7-5 6-4. Second seed Elina Svitolina eased to a 6-4 6-3 victory over Caroline Wozniacki and next meets 2021 U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu who returned following wrist and ankle surgeries to beat Elena-Gabriela Ruse 6-3 4-6 7-5.

Tennis: Rafael Nadal roars to victory over Dominic Thiem in Brisbane singles return

Novak Djokovic received treatment for a wrist issue during his United Cup match against Jiri Lehecka on Tuesday but the world number one battled through for a 6-1 6-7(3) 6-1 win that drew Serbia level with Czech Republic in the $10 million mixed team event.

Djokovic, who is gearing up for a tilt at a record-extending 11th Australian Open title this month, appeared to be bothered by his right wrist in practice and occasionally grimaced in the opening set at the RAC Arena. The Serb had his wrist worked on by a trainer after the first set and Lehecka sensed an opportunity, winning the second set in a tiebreak.

Djokovic took a medical timeout before the start of the third set and came out firing, running up a 5-0 lead before sealing the match. The 36-year-old said after the win that the wrist was sore. "But I managed to play it through and it's not the first or the last time," he added. "These things happen. You just have to manage and find a solution. "Let's see what happens now."

Djokovic had been scheduled to play in the deciding mixed doubles with Olga Danilovic but has been replaced by Hamad Medjedovic. Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova had earlier given the Czechs a 1-0 lead by beating Danilovic 6-1 3-6 6-3.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-stefanos-tsitsipas-struggles-with-back-issue-as-chile-stun-greece-at-united-cup-675774">Tennis: Stefanos Tsitsipas struggles with back issue as Chile stun Greece at United Cup</a>

Greece were stunned by Chile in their Group B opener, with Maria Sakkari and Stefanos Tsitsipas losing 6-7(5) 6-3 10-6 to Daniela Seguel and Tomas Barrios Vera in the mixed doubles decider at Sydney's Ken Rosewell Arena.

Sakkari beat Seguel 6-0 6-1 in the opener before Chile's Jarry downed Stefanos Sakellaridis 6-3 3-6 7-5 to level the tie after the Greeks decided not to field Australian Open runner-up Tsitsipas in the singles. The Australian Open Grand Slam runs from Jan. 14-28 at Melbourne Park.

Novak Djokovic received treatment for a wrist issue during his United Cup match against Jiri Lehecka on Tuesday but the world number one battled through for a 6-1 6-7(3) 6-1 win that drew Serbia level with Czech Republic in the $10 million mixed team event.

Novak Djokovic received treatment for a wrist issue during his United Cup match against Jiri Lehecka on Tuesday but the world number one battled through for a 6-1 6-7(3) 6-1 win that drew Serbia level with Czech Republic in the $10 million mixed team event. Djokovic, who is gearing up for a tilt at a record-extending 11th Australian Open title this month, appeared to be bothered by his right wrist in practice and occasionally grimaced in the opening set at the RAC Arena. The Serb had his wrist worked on by a trainer after the first set and Lehecka sensed an opportunity, winning the second set in a tiebreak. Djokovic took a medical timeout before the start of the third set and came out firing, running up a 5-0 lead before sealing the match. The 36-year-old said after the win that the wrist was sore. "But I managed to play it through and it's not the first or the last time," he added. "These things happen. You just have to manage and find a solution. "Let's see what happens now." Djokovic had been scheduled to play in the deciding mixed doubles with Olga Danilovic but has been replaced by Hamad Medjedovic. Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova had earlier given the Czechs a 1-0 lead by beating Danilovic 6-1 3-6 6-3. Also read: Tennis: Stefanos Tsitsipas struggles with back issue as Chile stun Greece at United Cup Greece were stunned by Chile in their Group B opener, with Maria Sakkari and Stefanos Tsitsipas losing 6-7(5) 6-3 10-6 to Daniela Seguel and Tomas Barrios Vera in the mixed doubles decider at Sydney's Ken Rosewell Arena. Sakkari beat Seguel 6-0 6-1 in the opener before Chile's Jarry downed Stefanos Sakellaridis 6-3 3-6 7-5 to level the tie after the Greeks decided not to field Australian Open runner-up Tsitsipas in the singles. The Australian Open Grand Slam runs from Jan. 14-28 at Melbourne Park.

Tennis: World number one Novak Djokovic hampered by wrist issue at United Cup

Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka looked solid on her return to elite tennis after 15 months out as she beat Germany's Tamara Korpatsch 6-3 7-6(9) in the first round of the Brisbane International on Monday. The 26-year-old from Japan last competed on tour at the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo in September 2022 and had her first child, daughter Shai, in July before stepping up her preparations for the Jan. 14-28 Australian Open.

Osaka displayed no signs of rust to break Korpatsch to love in her first game back and the former world number one turned up the heat again towards the end of the opening set to close it out in 38 minutes with a sizzling forehand winner. Twice Melbourne Park champion Osaka dropped serve for a second time late in the next set to squander her advantage but continued her clean ball-striking in the fiercely contested tiebreak to secure the victory.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-rafael-nadal-loses-comeback-doubles-match-at-brisbane-international-675324">Tennis: Rafael Nadal loses comeback doubles match at Brisbane International</a>

"I was super nervous but I was really excited to be out here. It feels really good to be back," Osaka said after taking pictures with fans courtside. "I feel like the last couple of years that I played before I had my daughter I didn't return as much love as I was given, so I really feel like that's what I want to do in this chapter.

"I just really appreciate people coming out and cheering for me, because I feel there was a time that I was just a little kid trying to watch my role models play. So it feels really surreal sometimes to be playing on these courts."

Up next for Osaka is a clash with former world number one Karolina Pliskova, who received a bye into the second round.

Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka looked solid on her return to elite tennis after 15 months out as she beat Germany's Tamara Korpatsch 6-3 7-6(9) in the first round of the Brisbane International on Monday.

Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka looked solid on her return to elite tennis after 15 months out as she beat Germany's Tamara Korpatsch 6-3 7-6(9) in the first round of the Brisbane International on Monday. The 26-year-old from Japan last competed on tour at the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo in September 2022 and had her first child, daughter Shai, in July before stepping up her preparations for the Jan. 14-28 Australian Open. Osaka displayed no signs of rust to break Korpatsch to love in her first game back and the former world number one turned up the heat again towards the end of the opening set to close it out in 38 minutes with a sizzling forehand winner. Twice Melbourne Park champion Osaka dropped serve for a second time late in the next set to squander her advantage but continued her clean ball-striking in the fiercely contested tiebreak to secure the victory. Also read: Tennis: Rafael Nadal loses comeback doubles match at Brisbane International "I was super nervous but I was really excited to be out here. It feels really good to be back," Osaka said after taking pictures with fans courtside. "I feel like the last couple of years that I played before I had my daughter I didn't return as much love as I was given, so I really feel like that's what I want to do in this chapter. "I just really appreciate people coming out and cheering for me, because I feel there was a time that I was just a little kid trying to watch my role models play. So it feels really surreal sometimes to be playing on these courts." Up next for Osaka is a clash with former world number one Karolina Pliskova, who received a bye into the second round.

Tennis: New mother Naomi Osaka makes winning return in Brisbane ahead of Australian Open 2024

Rafa Nadal returned to action for the first time since January at the Brisbane International on Sunday, losing his doubles match but overall showing no obvious after-effects of the hip injury that ruined his year.

The 22-time Grand Slam champion, who is gearing up for the Jan. 14-28 Australian Open, sustained the hip problem in his second round loss at Melbourne Park at the start of 2023 and ended his season early after having surgery in June.

Nadal rekindled his partnership with retired veteran Marc Lopez, with whom he won an Olympic gold medal in 2016, for his comeback but the duo lost 6-4 6-4 to Australians Max Purcell and Jordan Thompson at a packed Pat Rafter Arena.

"It's great to see Rafa back," said Thompson. "I've been on the receiving end a couple of times in singles, so it's nice to get him back on a doubles court."

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The 37-year-old Nadal was warmly welcomed by fans who held up Spanish flags and supportive messages while the loudest cheers were reserved for his trademark whipped shots and a powerful crosscourt backhand winner in the opening set.

Nadal is likely to get a similar reception in his singles opener on Tuesday against qualifier Dominic Thiem, whom he beat in the 2018 and 2019 French Open finals and holds a 9-6 win-loss record against.

Former women's world number one Naomi Osaka will also make her comeback following maternity break when she meets Tamara Korpatsch on Monday.

The 26-year-old from Japan last competed on the tour in September 2022 and welcomed her first child, daughter Shai, in July.

Former U.S. Open champion Sloane Stephens got her campaign off to a good start as she beat Katerina Siniakova 7-5 6-3 while Camila Giorgi survived a scare to get past Peyton Stearns 5-7 6-2 6-3.

Russian 16-year-old Mirra Andreeva also reached the second round with a 6-2 6-3 win over Diana Shnaider.

Rafa Nadal returned to action for the first time since January at the Brisbane International on Sunday, losing his doubles match but overall showing no obvious after-effects of the hip injury that ruined his year.

Rafa Nadal returned to action for the first time since January at the Brisbane International on Sunday, losing his doubles match but overall showing no obvious after-effects of the hip injury that ruined his year. The 22-time Grand Slam champion, who is gearing up for the Jan. 14-28 Australian Open, sustained the hip problem in his second round loss at Melbourne Park at the start of 2023 and ended his season early after having surgery in June. Nadal rekindled his partnership with retired veteran Marc Lopez, with whom he won an Olympic gold medal in 2016, for his comeback but the duo lost 6-4 6-4 to Australians Max Purcell and Jordan Thompson at a packed Pat Rafter Arena. "It's great to see Rafa back," said Thompson. "I've been on the receiving end a couple of times in singles, so it's nice to get him back on a doubles court." ALSO READ: Argentina to retire Lionel Messi’s famous Number 10 jersey post his retirement: Official The 37-year-old Nadal was warmly welcomed by fans who held up Spanish flags and supportive messages while the loudest cheers were reserved for his trademark whipped shots and a powerful crosscourt backhand winner in the opening set. Nadal is likely to get a similar reception in his singles opener on Tuesday against qualifier Dominic Thiem, whom he beat in the 2018 and 2019 French Open finals and holds a 9-6 win-loss record against. Former women's world number one Naomi Osaka will also make her comeback following maternity break when she meets Tamara Korpatsch on Monday. The 26-year-old from Japan last competed on the tour in September 2022 and welcomed her first child, daughter Shai, in July. Former U.S. Open champion Sloane Stephens got her campaign off to a good start as she beat Katerina Siniakova 7-5 6-3 while Camila Giorgi survived a scare to get past Peyton Stearns 5-7 6-2 6-3. Russian 16-year-old Mirra Andreeva also reached the second round with a 6-2 6-3 win over Diana Shnaider.

Tennis: Rafael Nadal loses comeback doubles match at Brisbane International

Aryna Sabalenka admitted Saturday she was feeling the pressure after a breakthrough 2023 saw her claim a maiden Grand Slam title at the Australian Open, but a new mindset was helping her deal with it.

The 25-year-old Belarusian also finished runner-up at the US Open and made the semi-finals of Wimbledon and Roland Garros on her way to becoming world number one.

Currently ranked second in the world behind Poland's Iga Swiatek, Sabalenka is top seed at the season-opening Brisbane International, which begins on Sunday.

She said she had been working hard during the off-season in a bid to become the first woman to win consecutive Australian Opens since countrywoman Victoria Azarenka in 2012 and 2013.

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But she conceded to feeling added pressure as defending champion at Melbourne Park.

"Last year I did an amazing job, it wasn't easy to do," Sabalenka said.

"It's not going to be easy this season. Just having this kind of thought in the background of your mind, actually having a title to defend, makes it actually not easy."

"I'm trying not to put pressure on myself.&nbsp;I'm just trying to prepare myself as good as I can -- it's not an easy thing to do, especially with the Grand Slams."

Sabalenka put her stellar 2023 down to a change of attitude.

"I kind of accept the fact that I can lose, that everyone can go out there and beat me if I'm not bringing my best tennis," she said.

"Accepting this fact gives you more belief -- you're more calm on the court in those crucial moments.

"Worst case, what happens?" she asked. "I'm going to lose a Grand Slam, lose some points, drop a little bit in the rankings.

"But there's so many tournaments ahead. I'm going to try to do my best to be in another Grand Slam or in other tournaments.&nbsp;

"That's why I like my mindset, you can beat me, but I'm going to prepare every match and have huge chances to win match after match, probably to hold the trophy."

Sabalenka has a first round bye in Brisbane and will play either Italian Lucia Bronzetti or American Ashlyn Krueger in the second round.

Aryna Sabalenka admitted Saturday she was feeling the pressure after a breakthrough 2023 saw her claim a maiden Grand Slam title at the Australian Open, but a new mindset was helping her deal with it.

Aryna Sabalenka admitted Saturday she was feeling the pressure after a breakthrough 2023 saw her claim a maiden Grand Slam title at the Australian Open, but a new mindset was helping her deal with it. The 25-year-old Belarusian also finished runner-up at the US Open and made the semi-finals of Wimbledon and Roland Garros on her way to becoming world number one. Currently ranked second in the world behind Poland's Iga Swiatek, Sabalenka is top seed at the season-opening Brisbane International, which begins on Sunday. She said she had been working hard during the off-season in a bid to become the first woman to win consecutive Australian Opens since countrywoman Victoria Azarenka in 2012 and 2013. Also Read: SA vs IND, 2nd Test: Gerald Coetzee ruled out of Cape Town contest with pelvic inflammation But she conceded to feeling added pressure as defending champion at Melbourne Park. "Last year I did an amazing job, it wasn't easy to do," Sabalenka said. "It's not going to be easy this season. Just having this kind of thought in the background of your mind, actually having a title to defend, makes it actually not easy." "I'm trying not to put pressure on myself. I'm just trying to prepare myself as good as I can -- it's not an easy thing to do, especially with the Grand Slams." Sabalenka put her stellar 2023 down to a change of attitude. "I kind of accept the fact that I can lose, that everyone can go out there and beat me if I'm not bringing my best tennis," she said. "Accepting this fact gives you more belief -- you're more calm on the court in those crucial moments. "Worst case, what happens?" she asked. "I'm going to lose a Grand Slam, lose some points, drop a little bit in the rankings. "But there's so many tournaments ahead. I'm going to try to do my best to be in another Grand Slam or in other tournaments. "That's why I like my mindset, you can beat me, but I'm going to prepare every match and have huge chances to win match after match, probably to hold the trophy." Sabalenka has a first round bye in Brisbane and will play either Italian Lucia Bronzetti or American Ashlyn Krueger in the second round.

Tennis: Aryna Sabalenka feels pressure ahead of Australia Open title defence in January 2024

India may be forced to forfeit a Davis Cup play-off hosted by rival Pakistan, with the local tennis association saying Thursday the team was waiting on New Delhi's approval to travel.

The nuclear-armed neighbours have fought several wars since winning independence from British rule in 1947, and sporting contests between the two have long been the victim of their enduring animosity.

The All India Tennis Association (AITA) asked the sports ministry for approval to travel to Pakistan after a request to shift the fixture to a third country was rejected by the International Tennis Federation tribunal.

"The proposal is still pending with the ministry and we are awaiting a decision," AITA secretary-general Anil Dhupar told AFP.&nbsp;

Pakistan Tennis Federation president Salim Saifullah Khan said 18 members of the Indian squad had requested visas for the World Group 1 clash scheduled for February 3-4.

"We have all the arrangements put in place. They will be given the best security and accommodation," he told AFP. "Let politics be kept away from sports and better sense prevail."

New Delhi last hosted the Pakistani tennis team in 2006 and the Indian Davis Cup team last travelled to Islamabad in 1964, according to news outlet India Today.

Local media reports said a 2019 match was moved to Kazakhstan, with the AITA citing political tensions as the reason for the request.

Sports matches between India and Pakistan are rare owing to decades of hostility between the two nations.

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They share one of the world's great sporting rivalries in cricket, by far the most popular sport in both countries.

But their teams have not played a bilateral series in more than a decade, and typically only face each other in larger tournaments.&nbsp;

India refused to travel to Pakistan for the 50-over Asia Cup in September, a move that forced its neighbour to partially relinquish hosting duties to Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

Pakistan travelled to India the following month for the Cricket World Cup after its request to stage some matches in a third country was rejected.&nbsp;

India may be forced to forfeit a Davis Cup play-off hosted by rival Pakistan, with the local tennis association saying Thursday the team was waiting on New Delhi's approval to travel.

India may be forced to forfeit a Davis Cup play-off hosted by rival Pakistan, with the local tennis association saying Thursday the team was waiting on New Delhi's approval to travel. The nuclear-armed neighbours have fought several wars since winning independence from British rule in 1947, and sporting contests between the two have long been the victim of their enduring animosity. The All India Tennis Association (AITA) asked the sports ministry for approval to travel to Pakistan after a request to shift the fixture to a third country was rejected by the International Tennis Federation tribunal. "The proposal is still pending with the ministry and we are awaiting a decision," AITA secretary-general Anil Dhupar told AFP. Pakistan Tennis Federation president Salim Saifullah Khan said 18 members of the Indian squad had requested visas for the World Group 1 clash scheduled for February 3-4. "We have all the arrangements put in place. They will be given the best security and accommodation," he told AFP. "Let politics be kept away from sports and better sense prevail." New Delhi last hosted the Pakistani tennis team in 2006 and the Indian Davis Cup team last travelled to Islamabad in 1964, according to news outlet India Today. Local media reports said a 2019 match was moved to Kazakhstan, with the AITA citing political tensions as the reason for the request. Sports matches between India and Pakistan are rare owing to decades of hostility between the two nations. ALSO READ | AUS v PAK: Play delayed after third umpire gets stuck in lift at MCG during Boxing Day Test They share one of the world's great sporting rivalries in cricket, by far the most popular sport in both countries. But their teams have not played a bilateral series in more than a decade, and typically only face each other in larger tournaments. India refused to travel to Pakistan for the 50-over Asia Cup in September, a move that forced its neighbour to partially relinquish hosting duties to Sri Lanka. Pakistan travelled to India the following month for the Cricket World Cup after its request to stage some matches in a third country was rejected.

Tennis: India likely to miss Davis Cup match hosted by rival Pakistan

Novak Djokovic has no plans to hang up his racket any time soon and is hoping he might be able to emulate American football great Tom Brady by extending his career well past his 40th birthday, the 36-year-old Serbian said on Tuesday.

Quarterback Brady played 23 seasons in the National Football League, winning seven Super Bowls with the New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers before finally calling it quits at the age of 45 earlier this year.

World number one Djokovic, who is preparing for the start of his 22nd season as a professional by playing an exhibition match against Carlos Alcaraz in Riyadh on Wednesday, said he had already learned plenty from Brady.

"Tom Brady is a great example of a champion in his sport and someone that has had such a great career and longevity," the 24-times Grand Slam champion told reporters in the Saudi capital.

"He has put a lot of hours and a lot of time into self-care, into recovery, into making sure that in a way every aspect of his body and mind is covered so that he can have a long-lasting, successful career.

"I know him personally and I learned a lot from him, from his example, and hopefully I can have a career that goes up to 40 or maybe even beyond - let's see."

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Brady was in Djokovic's box at Roland Garros in June to watch his friend win the French Open, one of three Grand Slam trophies the Serbian captured in 2023 along with the Australian and U.S. Open titles.

"I feel great in my own body right now and I've been playing some really high-quality tennis," Djokovic added. "2023 was one of the best seasons I've had in my life and why stop while you're still playing great? So I'll keep going and take (each) year, one by one, and see how far I go."

Alcaraz beat the Serbian in a five-set thriller to win this year's other Grand Slam title at Wimbledon and Djokovic welcomed the rise of the 20-year-old Spaniard, especially as Roger Federer has retired and Rafa Nadal is entering his last season.

"Our era is coming to an end, but you have Alcaraz emerging which is great, and I was very happy that I had four very good matches with him this year," Djokovic said.

"Each match attracted a lot of attention, we had a lot of great highlights and it's good, it's good for our sport."

Djokovic will make his final preparations for a tilt at an 11th Australian Open title by representing his country in the United Cup in Perth and Sydney in the first week of the new year.

Novak Djokovic has no plans to hang up his racket any time soon and is hoping he might be able to emulate American football great Tom Brady by extending his career well past his 40th birthday, the 36-year-old Serbian said on Tuesday.

Novak Djokovic has no plans to hang up his racket any time soon and is hoping he might be able to emulate American football great Tom Brady by extending his career well past his 40th birthday, the 36-year-old Serbian said on Tuesday. Quarterback Brady played 23 seasons in the National Football League, winning seven Super Bowls with the New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers before finally calling it quits at the age of 45 earlier this year. World number one Djokovic, who is preparing for the start of his 22nd season as a professional by playing an exhibition match against Carlos Alcaraz in Riyadh on Wednesday, said he had already learned plenty from Brady. "Tom Brady is a great example of a champion in his sport and someone that has had such a great career and longevity," the 24-times Grand Slam champion told reporters in the Saudi capital. "He has put a lot of hours and a lot of time into self-care, into recovery, into making sure that in a way every aspect of his body and mind is covered so that he can have a long-lasting, successful career. "I know him personally and I learned a lot from him, from his example, and hopefully I can have a career that goes up to 40 or maybe even beyond - let's see." ALSO READ: Premier League: Chris Wood hat-trick gives Nuno first win as Nottingham Forest boss Brady was in Djokovic's box at Roland Garros in June to watch his friend win the French Open, one of three Grand Slam trophies the Serbian captured in 2023 along with the Australian and U.S. Open titles. "I feel great in my own body right now and I've been playing some really high-quality tennis," Djokovic added. "2023 was one of the best seasons I've had in my life and why stop while you're still playing great? So I'll keep going and take (each) year, one by one, and see how far I go." Alcaraz beat the Serbian in a five-set thriller to win this year's other Grand Slam title at Wimbledon and Djokovic welcomed the rise of the 20-year-old Spaniard, especially as Roger Federer has retired and Rafa Nadal is entering his last season. "Our era is coming to an end, but you have Alcaraz emerging which is great, and I was very happy that I had four very good matches with him this year," Djokovic said. "Each match attracted a lot of attention, we had a lot of great highlights and it's good, it's good for our sport." Djokovic will make his final preparations for a tilt at an 11th Australian Open title by representing his country in the United Cup in Perth and Sydney in the first week of the new year.

Tennis: Novak Djokovic eager to emulate NFL legend Tom Brady and play on till 40

Leander Paes, India’s first entrant in International Tennis Hall of Fame, looks back at his career and Indian tennis’ transformation.

Tennis Hall of Fame: Indian Tennis legend Leander Paes make history

World number eight Holger Rune has added Severin Luthi, a long-time mentor to Swiss great Roger Federer, to his coaching team, just weeks after appointing six-time major winner Boris Becker as his coach ahead of the 2024 season. Luthi, 47, coached Federer from 2007 until the 20-time Grand Slam champion's retirement in 2022 and also captains the Swiss Davis Cup team.

Rune, who is gearing up for the Jan. 14-28 Australian Open Grand Slam, has been working in Monte Carlo with Becker after bringing the German onto his team in mid-October.

"Very happy to welcome Severin to my team alongside Boris," Rune wrote on social media along with a picture of his team. Rune made two ATP 1000 finals this year, at Rome and Monte Carlo, while his only title came at the Bavarian International in Munich in April.

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<h2 data-label="Package" data-qa-component="item-headline" data-rc-highlight="headline" dir="auto" title="Tennis-Tennis governing bodies aim to combat online abuse of players">Tennis&nbsp;governing bodies aim to combat online abuse of players</h2>

The major governing bodies of&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;on Wednesday said they will aim to protect their athletes from online abuse by monitoring, reporting and helping to identify who is behind threats and other inappropriate contact. The ITF, WTA, AELTC and USTA will use the Threat Matrix service to monitor players' public-facing social media for abusive and threatening content on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, YouTube, Facebook and TikTok beginning Jan. 1. "This development reflects the commitment of the international&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;bodies involved to protect and support athletes from the mental trauma and potential real-world threat of online harassment and abuse," the organizations said in a joint release.

Threat Matrix, which uses a combination of artificial intelligence and open-source data, will provide rapid threat assessment of personal safety, alert social platforms of abuse, and support law enforcement agencies in investigations of serious cases. "The Threat Matrix service will support the identification of abusers, against whom all available measures will be taken," the bodies said. "Tennis&nbsp;is committed to supporting its athletes against online abuse, to which this ground-breaking initiative will make a significant contribution."

Tennis&nbsp;players have said they have seen a rise in online abuse as sports betting has becomes more widespread, with betters who lose money on matches taking their frustrations out on the athletes.

World number eight Holger Rune has added Severin Luthi, a long-time mentor to Swiss great Roger Federer, to his coaching team, just weeks after appointing six-time major winner Boris Becker as his coach ahead of the 2024 season.

World number eight Holger Rune has added Severin Luthi, a long-time mentor to Swiss great Roger Federer, to his coaching team, just weeks after appointing six-time major winner Boris Becker as his coach ahead of the 2024 season. Luthi, 47, coached Federer from 2007 until the 20-time Grand Slam champion's retirement in 2022 and also captains the Swiss Davis Cup team. Rune, who is gearing up for the Jan. 14-28 Australian Open Grand Slam, has been working in Monte Carlo with Becker after bringing the German onto his team in mid-October. "Very happy to welcome Severin to my team alongside Boris," Rune wrote on social media along with a picture of his team. Rune made two ATP 1000 finals this year, at Rome and Monte Carlo, while his only title came at the Bavarian International in Munich in April. Also read: Ligue 1: Kylian Mbappe scores twice as Paris Saint-Germain finish year on top Tennis governing bodies aim to combat online abuse of players The major governing bodies of tennis on Wednesday said they will aim to protect their athletes from online abuse by monitoring, reporting and helping to identify who is behind threats and other inappropriate contact. The ITF, WTA, AELTC and USTA will use the Threat Matrix service to monitor players' public-facing social media for abusive and threatening content on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, YouTube, Facebook and TikTok beginning Jan. 1. "This development reflects the commitment of the international tennis bodies involved to protect and support athletes from the mental trauma and potential real-world threat of online harassment and abuse," the organizations said in a joint release. Threat Matrix, which uses a combination of artificial intelligence and open-source data, will provide rapid threat assessment of personal safety, alert social platforms of abuse, and support law enforcement agencies in investigations of serious cases. "The Threat Matrix service will support the identification of abusers, against whom all available measures will be taken," the bodies said. "Tennis is committed to supporting its athletes against online abuse, to which this ground-breaking initiative will make a significant contribution." Tennis players have said they have seen a rise in online abuse as sports betting has becomes more widespread, with betters who lose money on matches taking their frustrations out on the athletes.

Tennis: Holger Rune adds Roger Federer's former coach to team after Boris Becker appointment

The major governing bodies of&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;on Wednesday said they will aim to protect their athletes from online abuse by monitoring, reporting and helping to identify who is behind threats and other inappropriate contact. The ITF, WTA, AELTC and USTA will use the Threat Matrix service to monitor players' public-facing social media for abusive and threatening content on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, YouTube, Facebook and TikTok beginning Jan. 1.

"This development reflects the commitment of the international&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;bodies involved to protect and support athletes from the mental trauma and potential real-world threat of online harassment and abuse," the organisations said in a joint release. Threat Matrix, which uses a combination of artificial intelligence and open-source data, will provide rapid threat assessment of personal safety, alert social platforms of abuse, and support law enforcement agencies in investigations of serious cases.

"The Threat Matrix service will support the identification of abusers, against whom all available measures will be taken," the bodies said. "Tennis&nbsp;is committed to supporting its athletes against online abuse, to which this ground-breaking initiative will make a significant contribution."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-holger-rune-adds-roger-federers-former-coach-to-team-after-boris-becker-appointment-672026">Tennis: Holger Rune adds Roger Federer's former coach to team after Boris Becker appointment</a>

Tennis&nbsp;players have said they have seen a rise in online abuse as sports betting has become more widespread, with betters who lose money on matches taking their frustrations out on the athletes. Threat Matrix was commissioned to conduct a study in which it monitored over 1.6 million public posts on X and 19,000 Instagram comments sent to a sample of 454 players competing at a range of professional&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;tournaments in 2022, the bodies said.

One in four players whose accounts were monitored were subject to abuse. Of these, 546 offensive Tweets from 438 accounts were identified, with details and evidence shared with platforms and authorities for action.

The major governing bodies of tennis on Wednesday said they will aim to protect their athletes from online abuse by monitoring, reporting and helping to identify who is behind threats and other inappropriate contact.

The major governing bodies of tennis on Wednesday said they will aim to protect their athletes from online abuse by monitoring, reporting and helping to identify who is behind threats and other inappropriate contact. The ITF, WTA, AELTC and USTA will use the Threat Matrix service to monitor players' public-facing social media for abusive and threatening content on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, YouTube, Facebook and TikTok beginning Jan. 1. "This development reflects the commitment of the international tennis bodies involved to protect and support athletes from the mental trauma and potential real-world threat of online harassment and abuse," the organisations said in a joint release. Threat Matrix, which uses a combination of artificial intelligence and open-source data, will provide rapid threat assessment of personal safety, alert social platforms of abuse, and support law enforcement agencies in investigations of serious cases. "The Threat Matrix service will support the identification of abusers, against whom all available measures will be taken," the bodies said. "Tennis is committed to supporting its athletes against online abuse, to which this ground-breaking initiative will make a significant contribution." Also read: Tennis: Holger Rune adds Roger Federer's former coach to team after Boris Becker appointment Tennis players have said they have seen a rise in online abuse as sports betting has become more widespread, with betters who lose money on matches taking their frustrations out on the athletes. Threat Matrix was commissioned to conduct a study in which it monitored over 1.6 million public posts on X and 19,000 Instagram comments sent to a sample of 454 players competing at a range of professional tennis tournaments in 2022, the bodies said. One in four players whose accounts were monitored were subject to abuse. Of these, 546 offensive Tweets from 438 accounts were identified, with details and evidence shared with platforms and authorities for action.

Tennis governing bodies focused to combat online abuse of players

Rafa Nadal has shown good progress in training since recovering from a hip injury but his coach Carlos Moya still worries about how the former world number one's body will hold up against the rigours of Grand Slam tennis. The 37-year-old suffered a muscle issue at Melbourne Park in January that wiped out his season but will return at Brisbane this month before playing in the Jan. 14-28 Australian Open where he won two of his 22 Grand Slam titles.

The Spaniard, who had surgery in June, has said 2024 could be his final year on tour and has stepped up training in recent months in order to make a comeback and ensure he finishes his career on court. "Rafa's going to go from training, which he's doing very well, to competing. It's impossible to have the same conditions in training as in a match," Moya said in an interview with the ATP Tour.

"Playing the best of five sets, win, rest, return to court two days later ... That's the doubt I have right now, especially for a Grand Slam. But we have time. If the Australian Open started tomorrow, it would be a real fear. "There's still a month left, a tournament before in Brisbane, demanding training ... I think all of this will put him in a position to be able to endure it. But now that's my fear."

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Nadal dropped out of the top 100 for the first time in 20 years earlier this season and has slipped to number 668 but is eligible for a protected ranking having been injured and not competing for at least six months. However, Moya said Nadal would not be able to avoid strong opponents in the early rounds and would need favourable draws to build up his rhythm. "I've never been of the thought that Rafa needs rhythm because he's too good for that," Moya said. "But now the situation is different."

Rafa Nadal has shown good progress in training since recovering from a hip injury but his coach Carlos Moya still worries about how the former world number one's body will hold up against the rigours of Grand Slam tennis.

Rafa Nadal has shown good progress in training since recovering from a hip injury but his coach Carlos Moya still worries about how the former world number one's body will hold up against the rigours of Grand Slam tennis. The 37-year-old suffered a muscle issue at Melbourne Park in January that wiped out his season but will return at Brisbane this month before playing in the Jan. 14-28 Australian Open where he won two of his 22 Grand Slam titles. The Spaniard, who had surgery in June, has said 2024 could be his final year on tour and has stepped up training in recent months in order to make a comeback and ensure he finishes his career on court. "Rafa's going to go from training, which he's doing very well, to competing. It's impossible to have the same conditions in training as in a match," Moya said in an interview with the ATP Tour. "Playing the best of five sets, win, rest, return to court two days later ... That's the doubt I have right now, especially for a Grand Slam. But we have time. If the Australian Open started tomorrow, it would be a real fear. "There's still a month left, a tournament before in Brisbane, demanding training ... I think all of this will put him in a position to be able to endure it. But now that's my fear." Also read: Stockton Kings player faces murder charge of missing woman in Las Vegas Nadal dropped out of the top 100 for the first time in 20 years earlier this season and has slipped to number 668 but is eligible for a protected ranking having been injured and not competing for at least six months. However, Moya said Nadal would not be able to avoid strong opponents in the early rounds and would need favourable draws to build up his rhythm. "I've never been of the thought that Rafa needs rhythm because he's too good for that," Moya said. "But now the situation is different."

Tennis: Carlos Moya unsure how Rafael Nadal will cope with Grand Slam demands on comeback

The International Tennis Federation (ITF) named Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka as its 'world champions' of 2023 after their performances at this year's Grand Slams.

Djokovic was given the men's singles award for a record-extending eighth time after winning three out of the four majors, the game's global governing body said in a news release.

The 36-year-old Serb took his Grand Slam tally to 24, matching Margaret Court with the most major singles crowns, and won the ATP Finals title for a record seventh time, finishing the year as number one.

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Sabalenka won her maiden major at the Australian Open, finished runner-up at the U.S. Open and reached the semi-finals at both the French Open and Wimbledon.

The Belarusian, who was pipped to the yearend top spot by Iga Swiatek at the WTA Finals, said 2023 had been "incredible" and was delighted to be named world champion.

"I can't wait to get back out on court for the new season in January," she said in the ITF release.

Rajeev Ram and Joe Salisbury took the men's doubles award after winning their third consecutive U.S. Open title while Wimbledon runners-up Storm Hunter and Elise Mertens claimed the women's doubles title.

The International Tennis Federation (ITF) named Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka as its 'world champions' of 2023 after their performances at this year's Grand Slams.

The International Tennis Federation (ITF) named Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka as its 'world champions' of 2023 after their performances at this year's Grand Slams. Djokovic was given the men's singles award for a record-extending eighth time after winning three out of the four majors, the game's global governing body said in a news release. The 36-year-old Serb took his Grand Slam tally to 24, matching Margaret Court with the most major singles crowns, and won the ATP Finals title for a record seventh time, finishing the year as number one. ALSO READ: Lionel Messi, Aitana Bonmati nominated for FIFA best player awards Sabalenka won her maiden major at the Australian Open, finished runner-up at the U.S. Open and reached the semi-finals at both the French Open and Wimbledon. The Belarusian, who was pipped to the yearend top spot by Iga Swiatek at the WTA Finals, said 2023 had been "incredible" and was delighted to be named world champion. "I can't wait to get back out on court for the new season in January," she said in the ITF release. Rajeev Ram and Joe Salisbury took the men's doubles award after winning their third consecutive U.S. Open title while Wimbledon runners-up Storm Hunter and Elise Mertens claimed the women's doubles title.

Tennis: ITF names Novak Djokovic, Aryna Sabalenka as its 2023 'world champions'

Nick Kyrgios says that "I don't want to play anymore" but will give his tennis career another one or two years, days after pulling out of his home Australian Open.

The talented but temperamental 28-year-old had knee surgery in January and then aborted plans to return at Wimbledon after tearing a ligament in his wrist.

The 2022 Wimbledon finalist has spoken previously of his struggles with his mental health and has now told the On Purpose with Jay Shetty podcast about his fitness problems.

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"If it was up to me, I don't really want to play anymore, to be honest," Kyrgios said.

"But I have to almost (keep playing). I've got so much more to give, but for me, I don't want to play anymore.

"I'm exhausted, I'm tired. I have had three surgeries now.

"I always wanted to be able to have a family and not be in pain.&nbsp;

"When I get up, I can't walk without pain."

Kyrgios, who reached a career-high 13 in the world in 2016, said he was "heartbroken" last week when he withdrew from January's Australian Open.

His long injury absence has sparked renewed speculation about his tennis future.

"I only want to play for about another one to two years and be at the top and go out (on) my own terms," Kyrgios told the podcast, which was released this week.

"I would hate to have another surgery or anything like that. So I think I've still got the ability to have a good one to two years."

Nick Kyrgios says that "I don't want to play anymore" but will give his tennis career another one or two years, days after pulling out of his home Australian Open.

Nick Kyrgios says that "I don't want to play anymore" but will give his tennis career another one or two years, days after pulling out of his home Australian Open. The talented but temperamental 28-year-old had knee surgery in January and then aborted plans to return at Wimbledon after tearing a ligament in his wrist. The 2022 Wimbledon finalist has spoken previously of his struggles with his mental health and has now told the On Purpose with Jay Shetty podcast about his fitness problems. Also Read: Champions League: Manchester United crash out of Europe after 1-0 defeat to Bayern Munich "If it was up to me, I don't really want to play anymore, to be honest," Kyrgios said. "But I have to almost (keep playing). I've got so much more to give, but for me, I don't want to play anymore. "I'm exhausted, I'm tired. I have had three surgeries now. "I always wanted to be able to have a family and not be in pain. "When I get up, I can't walk without pain." Kyrgios, who reached a career-high 13 in the world in 2016, said he was "heartbroken" last week when he withdrew from January's Australian Open. His long injury absence has sparked renewed speculation about his tennis future. "I only want to play for about another one to two years and be at the top and go out (on) my own terms," Kyrgios told the podcast, which was released this week. "I would hate to have another surgery or anything like that. So I think I've still got the ability to have a good one to two years."

Tennis: Nick Kyrgios 'doesn't want to play anymore' but will give career another chance

The WTA is yet to decide on a venue for its 2024 season-ending Finals, the governing body of women's tennis said, amid growing speculation the championship is headed to Saudi Arabia. Cancun was named the venue for this year's edition less than two months before it began on Oct. 29 and the Mexico event drew heavy criticism from world number two Aryna Sabalenka over the standard of organisation.

Multiple media outlets have said the Finals are set to move to Saudi Arabia and the BBC reported that negotiations were in the late stages with both parties keen on a multi-year deal. "We are in discussions with various groups surrounding the 2024 WTA Finals and beyond and have not made any decisions at this time," a WTA spokesperson said in an email. "As with all WTA decisions, we are working closely with players and focused on continuing to build a strong future for women's tennis."

Shenzhen hosted the 2019 edition as part of a lucrative 10-year deal but the event was cancelled the following year due to COVID-19 and moved to Guadalajara, Mexico in 2021. The tournament was expected to return to Shenzhen from 2022 but the WTA suspended tournaments in China due to concerns over the treatment of former doubles world number&nbsp;one&nbsp;Peng Shuai.

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Fort Worth, Texas hosted the tournament that year and drew sparse crowds. The men's ATP Tour said in August its Next Gen Finals for under-21 players would be held in Jeddah from 2023 to 2027, marking its first official tournament in the Gulf state.

Saudi Arabia has pumped huge amounts of money into various sports including soccer,&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One, boxing and golf, with critics accusing the country of using its Public Investment Fund to engage in "sportswashing" over its human rights record. The kingdom denies accusations of human rights abuses and says it protects its national security through its laws.

The WTA is yet to decide on a venue for its 2024 season-ending Finals, the governing body of women's tennis said, amid growing speculation the championship is headed to Saudi Arabia.

The WTA is yet to decide on a venue for its 2024 season-ending Finals, the governing body of women's tennis said, amid growing speculation the championship is headed to Saudi Arabia. Cancun was named the venue for this year's edition less than two months before it began on Oct. 29 and the Mexico event drew heavy criticism from world number two Aryna Sabalenka over the standard of organisation. Multiple media outlets have said the Finals are set to move to Saudi Arabia and the BBC reported that negotiations were in the late stages with both parties keen on a multi-year deal. "We are in discussions with various groups surrounding the 2024 WTA Finals and beyond and have not made any decisions at this time," a WTA spokesperson said in an email. "As with all WTA decisions, we are working closely with players and focused on continuing to build a strong future for women's tennis." Shenzhen hosted the 2019 edition as part of a lucrative 10-year deal but the event was cancelled the following year due to COVID-19 and moved to Guadalajara, Mexico in 2021. The tournament was expected to return to Shenzhen from 2022 but the WTA suspended tournaments in China due to concerns over the treatment of former doubles world number one Peng Shuai. Also read: Tennis: Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz to face off in Netflix exhibition match in USA next year Fort Worth, Texas hosted the tournament that year and drew sparse crowds. The men's ATP Tour said in August its Next Gen Finals for under-21 players would be held in Jeddah from 2023 to 2027, marking its first official tournament in the Gulf state. Saudi Arabia has pumped huge amounts of money into various sports including soccer, Formula One, boxing and golf, with critics accusing the country of using its Public Investment Fund to engage in "sportswashing" over its human rights record. The kingdom denies accusations of human rights abuses and says it protects its national security through its laws.

Tennis: WTA affirms no decision yet on 2024 Finals host amid reported Saudi interest

Rafael Nadal will face Carlos Alcaraz in an exhibition match in Las Vegas on March 3, the fixture's broadcaster and organisers Netflix said on Monday.

Twenty-two time Grand Slam winner Nadal will meet Spanish compatriot and world number two Alcaraz at the Michelob Ultra Arena at the Mandalay Bay Resort.

The fixture be part of Nadal's return to the courts after missing almost a year with injury.

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"I'm very excited for my first visit to Las Vegas, one of the most iconic and entertaining cities in the world," Nadal said.

"I’m also very excited to be playing with my fellow countryman Carlos Alcaraz. I am sure it will be a fantastic night of tennis," the 37-year-old said.

Former US Open champion and this year's Wimbledon winner Alcaraz is considered Nadal's heir apparent on a national and global scene.

The pair have faced each other just three times.

"I'm honoured and so happy to be sharing the court with Rafa in Las Vegas," Alcaraz said before a match that has been dubbed "The Netflix Slam".

"He's an all-time great, of course, and his records and achievements speak for themselves. Rafa also is one of the nicest guys on Tour and I look forward to our match on March 3," the 20-year-old said.

Netflix, the US-based streaming giant, said further players and matches would later be announced for the event.

Rafael Nadal will face Carlos Alcaraz in an exhibition match in Las Vegas on March 3, the fixture's broadcaster and organisers Netflix said on Monday. Twenty-two time Grand Slam winner Nadal will meet Spanish compatriot and world number two Alcaraz at the Michelob Ultra Arena at the Mandalay Bay Resort.

Rafael Nadal will face Carlos Alcaraz in an exhibition match in Las Vegas on March 3, the fixture's broadcaster and organisers Netflix said on Monday. Twenty-two time Grand Slam winner Nadal will meet Spanish compatriot and world number two Alcaraz at the Michelob Ultra Arena at the Mandalay Bay Resort. The fixture be part of Nadal's return to the courts after missing almost a year with injury. Also Read: One in five players at Women's World Cup suffer online abuse: Study "I'm very excited for my first visit to Las Vegas, one of the most iconic and entertaining cities in the world," Nadal said. "I’m also very excited to be playing with my fellow countryman Carlos Alcaraz. I am sure it will be a fantastic night of tennis," the 37-year-old said. Former US Open champion and this year's Wimbledon winner Alcaraz is considered Nadal's heir apparent on a national and global scene. The pair have faced each other just three times. "I'm honoured and so happy to be sharing the court with Rafa in Las Vegas," Alcaraz said before a match that has been dubbed "The Netflix Slam". "He's an all-time great, of course, and his records and achievements speak for themselves. Rafa also is one of the nicest guys on Tour and I look forward to our match on March 3," the 20-year-old said. Netflix, the US-based streaming giant, said further players and matches would later be announced for the event.

Tennis: Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz to face off in Netflix exhibition match in USA next year

Novak Djokovic turns 37 next year but the Serbian says his appetite for success will only increase with younger challengers awakening the "beast" in him. The world number one enjoyed an extraordinary 2023 by winning three out of the four Grand Slams to take his tally to 24, two more than his great rival Rafa Nadal and four more than the retired Roger Federer.

Djokovic did not have it all his own way, however, with 20-year-old Carlos Alcaraz denying him a fifth-straight Wimbledon crown in a thrilling final and 22-year-old Jannik Sinner dashing his hopes of Davis Cup glory. "The young guys who are very hungry and very inspired to play their best tennis against me is an additional motivation," Djokovic said on CBS News programme "60 Minutes". "I think they kind of awaken a beast in me."

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Djokovic beat Alcaraz in three of their four meetings this year - including the French Open semi-finals where the Spaniard suffered full-body cramps - but the Serb said his young rival had become a real threat. "He's as a complete of a player as I have seen in ages," Djokovic said, adding that he used his defeat in the Wimbledon final as motivation for the U.S. hardcourt swing, where he won at Cincinnati and Flushing Meadows. "It's a great opportunity for me to reinvent myself and really push harder than I ever did."

Novak Djokovic turns 37 next year but the Serbian says his appetite for success will only increase with younger challengers awakening the "beast" in him. The world number one enjoyed an extraordinary 2023 by winning three out of the four Grand Slams to take his tally to 24, two more than his great rival Rafa Nadal and four more than the retired Roger Federer.

Novak Djokovic turns 37 next year but the Serbian says his appetite for success will only increase with younger challengers awakening the "beast" in him. The world number one enjoyed an extraordinary 2023 by winning three out of the four Grand Slams to take his tally to 24, two more than his great rival Rafa Nadal and four more than the retired Roger Federer. Djokovic did not have it all his own way, however, with 20-year-old Carlos Alcaraz denying him a fifth-straight Wimbledon crown in a thrilling final and 22-year-old Jannik Sinner dashing his hopes of Davis Cup glory. "The young guys who are very hungry and very inspired to play their best tennis against me is an additional motivation," Djokovic said on CBS News programme "60 Minutes". "I think they kind of awaken a beast in me." Also read: Proud father LeBron James shares emotional message for son Bronny on college basketball debut for USC Trojans Djokovic beat Alcaraz in three of their four meetings this year - including the French Open semi-finals where the Spaniard suffered full-body cramps - but the Serb said his young rival had become a real threat. "He's as a complete of a player as I have seen in ages," Djokovic said, adding that he used his defeat in the Wimbledon final as motivation for the U.S. hardcourt swing, where he won at Cincinnati and Flushing Meadows. "It's a great opportunity for me to reinvent myself and really push harder than I ever did."

Tennis: World number one Novak Djokovic says younger rivals have awoken his inner 'beast'

Nick Kyrgios withdrew from the Australian Open on Saturday as he continues to struggle for fitness after a long injury absence, calling the decision "heartbreaking".

The Australian showstopper had knee surgery in January and then aborted plans to return at Wimbledon after tearing a ligament in his wrist.

He said last month "the stars would need to align" for him to be ready for his home Grand Slam in January, and the one-time world number 13 confirmed on Saturday time had run out.

"So, this is a very disappointing time for me, but I won't be able to compete at the 2024 Australian Open," Kyrgios said on the subscription website OnlyFans, which he joined as a content creator last week.

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"Obviously, heartbreaking. I've had so many amazing memories there, and I just want to really get back to playing at the top of my game and doing it right, and I need a little more time. "Even though I won't be there competing this year at the AO, I still will be around, commentating matches, being around," he added.

Last month, Kyrgios said that winning a Grand Slam remained his driving force, having come closest at Wimbledon in 2022 when he lost to Novak Djokovic in the final.

The Australian Open runs from January 14-28 at Melbourne Park, with Aryna Sabalenka defending the women's title and Djokovic, the men's.

While Kyrgios will be missing, 22-time Grand Slam winner Rafael Nadal -- who has not played since this year's Australian Open due to injury -- is on the entry list.So too is four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka, who gave birth to daughter Shai in July. She has not played since September 2022, having also struggled with her mental health.

Nick Kyrgios withdrew from the Australian Open on Saturday as he continues to struggle for fitness after a long injury absence, calling the decision "heartbreaking".

Nick Kyrgios withdrew from the Australian Open on Saturday as he continues to struggle for fitness after a long injury absence, calling the decision "heartbreaking". The Australian showstopper had knee surgery in January and then aborted plans to return at Wimbledon after tearing a ligament in his wrist. He said last month "the stars would need to align" for him to be ready for his home Grand Slam in January, and the one-time world number 13 confirmed on Saturday time had run out. "So, this is a very disappointing time for me, but I won't be able to compete at the 2024 Australian Open," Kyrgios said on the subscription website OnlyFans, which he joined as a content creator last week. Also Read: Trevor Kettle leads AIFF's IWL match official workshop in Mumbai "Obviously, heartbreaking. I've had so many amazing memories there, and I just want to really get back to playing at the top of my game and doing it right, and I need a little more time. "Even though I won't be there competing this year at the AO, I still will be around, commentating matches, being around," he added. Last month, Kyrgios said that winning a Grand Slam remained his driving force, having come closest at Wimbledon in 2022 when he lost to Novak Djokovic in the final. The Australian Open runs from January 14-28 at Melbourne Park, with Aryna Sabalenka defending the women's title and Djokovic, the men's. While Kyrgios will be missing, 22-time Grand Slam winner Rafael Nadal -- who has not played since this year's Australian Open due to injury -- is on the entry list.So too is four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka, who gave birth to daughter Shai in July. She has not played since September 2022, having also struggled with her mental health.

Tennis: Nick Kyrgios pulls out of 2024 Australian Open due to fitness concerns

Rafael Nadal on Wednesday insisted he will be "competitive" when he returns to professional tennis next month after enduring nearly a year out of action due to injury.

The 22-time Grand Slam champion has undergone surgery twice in 2023 after struggling with a hip injury.

He has said next year will likely be his last season before retirement and announced last week he would make his comeback at the Australian Open warm-up event in Brisbane, which runs from January 1-7.

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"I don't know at what level (he will play at), I don't know what to expect, I have no idea, but I don't care right now," Nadal said in a video posted on social media.

"I'm just happy to be back and with great excitement to make the effort that is necessary to have fun and I believe that I will be competitive."

Nadal last played at the Australian Open in January, losing in the second round to American MacKenzie McDonald.

He originally hoped to be back in time for the clay-court season and Roland Garros, where he is a 14-time French Open winner, but had to end his campaign early.

The 37-year-old Spaniard has slipped to 664th in the world rankings while sidelined.

"It's been a long year in which I've gone through many phases, from trying to get back to compete at the clay season, week after week, disappointment after disappointment," said the former world number one.

"Of course I have had many doubts, of course there were moments where it seemed impossible that this moment would come, but we've maintained the work, spirit and hope and I think I am ready."

Nadal is a two-time Australian Open champion, in 2009 and 2022.

He has slipped behind old rival Novak Djokovic in the all-time list of Grand Slam singles titles, as the Serb won three this year in his absence to take his tally to a record 24.

"I have finally had good training weeks at a level that allows me to have the possibility to compete again," added Nadal.

"I have gone through many phases, but today I think it's time -- I'm coming back in a tournament that I've played in the past, that I'm familiar with...

"I know it's a difficult tournament but I hope to be ready to compete, I don't aspire to anything else but to be competitive."

Rafael Nadal on Wednesday insisted he will be "competitive" when he returns to professional tennis next month after enduring nearly a year out of action due to injury.

Rafael Nadal on Wednesday insisted he will be "competitive" when he returns to professional tennis next month after enduring nearly a year out of action due to injury. The 22-time Grand Slam champion has undergone surgery twice in 2023 after struggling with a hip injury. He has said next year will likely be his last season before retirement and announced last week he would make his comeback at the Australian Open warm-up event in Brisbane, which runs from January 1-7. All Read: Referee defends Lakers' controversial timeout vs Suns during in-season tournament quarters "I don't know at what level (he will play at), I don't know what to expect, I have no idea, but I don't care right now," Nadal said in a video posted on social media. "I'm just happy to be back and with great excitement to make the effort that is necessary to have fun and I believe that I will be competitive." Nadal last played at the Australian Open in January, losing in the second round to American MacKenzie McDonald. He originally hoped to be back in time for the clay-court season and Roland Garros, where he is a 14-time French Open winner, but had to end his campaign early. The 37-year-old Spaniard has slipped to 664th in the world rankings while sidelined. "It's been a long year in which I've gone through many phases, from trying to get back to compete at the clay season, week after week, disappointment after disappointment," said the former world number one. "Of course I have had many doubts, of course there were moments where it seemed impossible that this moment would come, but we've maintained the work, spirit and hope and I think I am ready." Nadal is a two-time Australian Open champion, in 2009 and 2022. He has slipped behind old rival Novak Djokovic in the all-time list of Grand Slam singles titles, as the Serb won three this year in his absence to take his tally to a record 24. "I have finally had good training weeks at a level that allows me to have the possibility to compete again," added Nadal. "I have gone through many phases, but today I think it's time -- I'm coming back in a tournament that I've played in the past, that I'm familiar with... "I know it's a difficult tournament but I hope to be ready to compete, I don't aspire to anything else but to be competitive."

Tennis: Rafael Nadal believes he will be 'competitive' in his return

The stage is set for the first-ever Grand Slam of 2024. The Australian Open will kick off on January 14 and the preparations are in full swing. Rafael Nadal and Naomi Osaka will officially mark their return to the Grand Slams, after long gaps, as the entry list for the upcoming 2024 edition is out.&nbsp;Both Nadal and Osaka will make a comeback during the Brisbane International, which will be held ahead of the Australian Open from Jan 1-7.

The Spaniard&nbsp;made his way on the entry list of the Australian Open on the basis of Protected Ranking along with Croatia’s Marin Cilic, Denis Shapovalov (Canada) and Milos Raonic, USA’s Reilly Opelka and Czech Republic’s Jiri Vesely. Meanwhile, Osaka was drafted in courtesy of the Special Ranking along with USA’s Jennifer Brady, Amanda Anisimova, Shelby Rogers and Caty McNally, Germany’s Angelique Kerber and Australia’s Ajila Tomlanovic.

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AO 2024 entry lists locked in. Let’s get this show on the road ☑️ 😎 <a href="https://t.co/fXGQluKVKn">https://t.co/fXGQluKVKn</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1732540938713759805?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-rafael-nadal-believes-he-will-be-competitive-in-his-return-666966">Tennis: Rafael Nadal believes he will be 'competitive' in his return</a>

Nadal will make a comeback&nbsp;after a long gap. He hasn't played any form of tennis since his second-round exit at the Australian Open early this year. He even bowed out of the 2023 French Open, owing to a hip injury, which led&nbsp;to his ouster from the top 100 for the first time in 20 years.&nbsp;

Ahead of his comeback, Nadal said in a video posted on social media, "I don't know at what level (he will play at), I don't know what to expect, I have no idea, but I don't care right now. I'm just happy to be back and with great excitement to make the effort that is necessary to have fun and I believe that I will be competitive."

He further opined, "It's been a long year in which I've gone through many phases, from trying to get back to compete at the clay season, week after week, disappointment after disappointment."

"Of course I have had many doubts, of course there were moments where it seemed impossible that this moment would come, but we've maintained the work, spirit and hope and I think I am ready," the former world number one Nadal added.

Meanwhile, Osaka will return after post-pregnancy after she became&nbsp;a mother&nbsp;in July. The 26-year-old has been away from professional tennis since the Toray Pan Pacific Open Tennis, held in September 2022.

The stage is set for the first-ever Grand Slam of 2024. The Australian Open will kick off on January 14 and the preparations are in full swing. Rafael Nadal and Naomi Osaka will officially mark their return to the Grand Slams, after long gaps, as the entry list for the upcoming 2024 edition is out.

The stage is set for the first-ever Grand Slam of 2024. The Australian Open will kick off on January 14 and the preparations are in full swing. Rafael Nadal and Naomi Osaka will officially mark their return to the Grand Slams, after long gaps, as the entry list for the upcoming 2024 edition is out. Both Nadal and Osaka will make a comeback during the Brisbane International, which will be held ahead of the Australian Open from Jan 1-7. The Spaniard made his way on the entry list of the Australian Open on the basis of Protected Ranking along with Croatia’s Marin Cilic, Denis Shapovalov (Canada) and Milos Raonic, USA’s Reilly Opelka and Czech Republic’s Jiri Vesely. Meanwhile, Osaka was drafted in courtesy of the Special Ranking along with USA’s Jennifer Brady, Amanda Anisimova, Shelby Rogers and Caty McNally, Germany’s Angelique Kerber and Australia’s Ajila Tomlanovic. AO 2024 entry lists locked in. Let’s get this show on the road ☑️ 😎 https://t.co/fXGQluKVKn — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) December 6, 2023 × Also read: Tennis: Rafael Nadal believes he will be 'competitive' in his return Nadal will make a comeback after a long gap. He hasn't played any form of tennis since his second-round exit at the Australian Open early this year. He even bowed out of the 2023 French Open, owing to a hip injury, which led to his ouster from the top 100 for the first time in 20 years. Ahead of his comeback, Nadal said in a video posted on social media, "I don't know at what level (he will play at), I don't know what to expect, I have no idea, but I don't care right now. I'm just happy to be back and with great excitement to make the effort that is necessary to have fun and I believe that I will be competitive." He further opined, "It's been a long year in which I've gone through many phases, from trying to get back to compete at the clay season, week after week, disappointment after disappointment." "Of course I have had many doubts, of course there were moments where it seemed impossible that this moment would come, but we've maintained the work, spirit and hope and I think I am ready," the former world number one Nadal added. Meanwhile, Osaka will return after post-pregnancy after she became a mother in July. The 26-year-old has been away from professional tennis since the Toray Pan Pacific Open Tennis, held in September 2022.

Tennis: Rafael Nadal, Naomi Osaka mark their return as Australian Open announce entry list for 2024 edition

World number five Andrey Rublev will begin his 2024 season at the Hong Kong Open when the ATP Tour returns to the city for the first time in more than 20 years, organisers said Tuesday. The 26-year-old Russian will be joined by Grand Slam semi-finalists Frances Tiafoe and Karen Khachanov for the January 1-7 event at Victoria Park, an important warm-up for the Australian Open.

Men last competed for the Hong Kong Open in 2002 and former champions include Pete Sampras, Andre Agassi, Pat Cash, Ivan Lendl and Jimmy Connors. Australian great Rod Laver won the inaugural edition in 1973.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/f1-carlos-sainzs-penalty-was-wrong-but-unavoidable-in-la-grand-prix-feels-steward-derek-warwick-666431">F1: Carlos Sainz's penalty was wrong but unavoidable in LA Grand Prix, feels Steward Derek Warwick</a>

The fiery Rublev, who will be top seed, won two titles this year, at Bastad in Sweden and Monte Carlo. American world number 16 Tiafoe rose to prominence at the 2022 US Open, where he lost an epic five-set semi-final to eventual champion Carlos Alcaraz, having knocked out Rafael Nadal in the last 16.

Russia's Khachanov also has recent Grand Slam pedigree.&nbsp;He also reached the semi-finals of the US Open in 2022, losing to Casper Ruud, and got to the last four of this year's Australian Open where he lost to Stefanos Tsitsipas.

"I'm looking forward to helping bring back ATP Tour excitement to the city for the first time since the early 2000s," said Khachanov. Veteran Croat and 2014 US Open champion Marin Cilic will begin his injury comeback at the event. The 35-year-old had knee surgery after suffering injury in January this year and only played one match on tour subsequently in 2023, sliding to 666th in the world.

World number five Andrey Rublev will begin his 2024 season at the Hong Kong Open when the ATP Tour returns to the city for the first time in more than 20 years, organisers said Tuesday.

World number five Andrey Rublev will begin his 2024 season at the Hong Kong Open when the ATP Tour returns to the city for the first time in more than 20 years, organisers said Tuesday. The 26-year-old Russian will be joined by Grand Slam semi-finalists Frances Tiafoe and Karen Khachanov for the January 1-7 event at Victoria Park, an important warm-up for the Australian Open. Men last competed for the Hong Kong Open in 2002 and former champions include Pete Sampras, Andre Agassi, Pat Cash, Ivan Lendl and Jimmy Connors. Australian great Rod Laver won the inaugural edition in 1973. Also Read: F1: Carlos Sainz's penalty was wrong but unavoidable in LA Grand Prix, feels Steward Derek Warwick The fiery Rublev, who will be top seed, won two titles this year, at Bastad in Sweden and Monte Carlo. American world number 16 Tiafoe rose to prominence at the 2022 US Open, where he lost an epic five-set semi-final to eventual champion Carlos Alcaraz, having knocked out Rafael Nadal in the last 16. Russia's Khachanov also has recent Grand Slam pedigree. He also reached the semi-finals of the US Open in 2022, losing to Casper Ruud, and got to the last four of this year's Australian Open where he lost to Stefanos Tsitsipas. "I'm looking forward to helping bring back ATP Tour excitement to the city for the first time since the early 2000s," said Khachanov. Veteran Croat and 2014 US Open champion Marin Cilic will begin his injury comeback at the event. The 35-year-old had knee surgery after suffering injury in January this year and only played one match on tour subsequently in 2023, sliding to 666th in the world.

Tennis: Andrey Rublev, Frances Tiafoe to return at 2024 Hong Kong Open

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