Tennis has always been a game of mixed emotions, sometimes players win and celebrate while sometimes players cries after losing the match. The ongoing edition of Wimbledon has gotten underway on Monday (June 30) and is expected to produce some jaw-dropping moments as well. Here's a look at the top five most emotional moments of Wimbledon history featuring Jana Novota, Goran Ivanisevic, Andy Murray, Marin Cilic and Ons Jabeur.&nbsp;1. Jana Novotna in tears after 1993 final loss&nbsp;Barbora Krejcikova, the current women’s champion once shared how her late coach, Jana Novotna had encouraged her to win a grand slam title. Novotna’s own Wimbledon journey was tough.&nbsp;In the 1993 final, Novotna was leading against defending champion Steffi Graf and played beautifully with clever tactics and smooth volleys. But just when the title seemed within her reach her game slow down. Graf won the last five sets, leaving Novotna heartbroken.&nbsp;During the trophy ceremony, Novotna broke down in tears and the Duchess of Kent console her with a hug, telling her she would win one day.&nbsp;And five years later in 1998, Novotna finally lifted the trophy after beating Nathalie Tauziat.&nbsp;2. Andy Murray’s emotional speech after 2012 final loss&nbsp;Andy Murray made it to the Wimbledon final in 2012 by hoping to become Britain’s first men’s champion since 1936. But he faced legendary Roger Federer who had already won multiple titles at Wimbledon.&nbsp;Murray started strong by winning his first ever set in a slam final and going up a greater hand in the second set. However, suddenly match gets changed once the roof closed due to rain, Federer took control and won the match.&nbsp;Murray couldn't hide his emotions as he gave a tearful interview on court. That moment of pain later turned into motivation. Just weeks later he beat Federer at the same venue to win Olympic gold.&nbsp;Also Read- <a href="How to watch Wimbledon 2025 in India and UK? Check the complete schedule, prize money and more">How to watch Wimbledon 2025 in India and UK? Check the complete schedule, prize money and more</a>&nbsp;3. Marin Cilic struggles with blister in 2017 final&nbsp;Earlier, Marin Cilic had easily beaten Federer in the 2014 US Open semi final. But in the 2017 Wimbledon final, it was a different story.&nbsp;Cilic was battling a painful foot blister, which affected his movement. A very crucial disadvantage against someone like Federer. By the second set, Cilic was clearly in pain and broke down in tears during a changeover.&nbsp;Despite his efforts he could not compete at his best and Federer won easily to claim his eighth Wimbledon title.&nbsp;4. Ons Jabeur’s heartbreaking loss in 2023&nbsp;Ons Jabeur lit up Wimbledon with her charm and skills in 2022 and 2023 by reaching back to back finals. After losing to Elena Rybakina in 2022, she returned stronger the next year and beat top players like Rybakina and world No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka.&nbsp;However, In the final she faced Marketa Vondrousova and was expected to win but she struggled to find rhythm against her opponent’s clever game and lost in straight sets. After the match during the post match speech, she opened up by saying 'This is the most painful loss of my career.'&nbsp;5. Goran Ivanisevic’s wild card miracle in 2001&nbsp;In 2001, Goran Ivanisevic was ranked at 125 and needed a wild card just to enter Wimbledon, he had already lost in previous three finals in the 1990s.&nbsp;But this time he defeated top players like Andy Roddick, Marat Safin and Tim Henman in a rain hit semi final. The final was played between Ivanisevic and Pat Rafter.&nbsp;Serving at 8-7 in the fifth set, Ivanisevic was so nervous he double faulted twice on points. But finally he landed a big second serve and Rafter’s return hit the net, finally he won. Overcome with emotion, Ivanisevic climbed into the stands to hug his father.

Tennis is always a game of mixed emotions, sometimes players win and celebrate while sometimes players cries after losing the match. Here's a look at the top five most emotional moments of Wimbledon history:

Tennis has always been a game of mixed emotions, sometimes players win and celebrate while sometimes players cries after losing the match. The ongoing edition of Wimbledon has gotten underway on Monday (June 30) and is expected to produce some jaw-dropping moments as well. Here's a look at the top five most emotional moments of Wimbledon history featuring Jana Novota, Goran Ivanisevic, Andy Murray, Marin Cilic and Ons Jabeur. 1. Jana Novotna in tears after 1993 final loss Barbora Krejcikova, the current women’s champion once shared how her late coach, Jana Novotna had encouraged her to win a grand slam title. Novotna’s own Wimbledon journey was tough. In the 1993 final, Novotna was leading against defending champion Steffi Graf and played beautifully with clever tactics and smooth volleys. But just when the title seemed within her reach her game slow down. Graf won the last five sets, leaving Novotna heartbroken. During the trophy ceremony, Novotna broke down in tears and the Duchess of Kent console her with a hug, telling her she would win one day. And five years later in 1998, Novotna finally lifted the trophy after beating Nathalie Tauziat. 2. Andy Murray’s emotional speech after 2012 final loss Andy Murray made it to the Wimbledon final in 2012 by hoping to become Britain’s first men’s champion since 1936. But he faced legendary Roger Federer who had already won multiple titles at Wimbledon. Murray started strong by winning his first ever set in a slam final and going up a greater hand in the second set. However, suddenly match gets changed once the roof closed due to rain, Federer took control and won the match. Murray couldn't hide his emotions as he gave a tearful interview on court. That moment of pain later turned into motivation. Just weeks later he beat Federer at the same venue to win Olympic gold. Also Read- How to watch Wimbledon 2025 in India and UK? Check the complete schedule, prize money and more 3. Marin Cilic struggles with blister in 2017 final Earlier, Marin Cilic had easily beaten Federer in the 2014 US Open semi final. But in the 2017 Wimbledon final, it was a different story. Cilic was battling a painful foot blister, which affected his movement. A very crucial disadvantage against someone like Federer. By the second set, Cilic was clearly in pain and broke down in tears during a changeover. Despite his efforts he could not compete at his best and Federer won easily to claim his eighth Wimbledon title. 4. Ons Jabeur’s heartbreaking loss in 2023 Ons Jabeur lit up Wimbledon with her charm and skills in 2022 and 2023 by reaching back to back finals. After losing to Elena Rybakina in 2022, she returned stronger the next year and beat top players like Rybakina and world No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka. However, In the final she faced Marketa Vondrousova and was expected to win but she struggled to find rhythm against her opponent’s clever game and lost in straight sets. After the match during the post match speech, she opened up by saying 'This is the most painful loss of my career.' 5. Goran Ivanisevic’s wild card miracle in 2001 In 2001, Goran Ivanisevic was ranked at 125 and needed a wild card just to enter Wimbledon, he had already lost in previous three finals in the 1990s. But this time he defeated top players like Andy Roddick, Marat Safin and Tim Henman in a rain hit semi final. The final was played between Ivanisevic and Pat Rafter. Serving at 8-7 in the fifth set, Ivanisevic was so nervous he double faulted twice on points. But finally he landed a big second serve and Rafter’s return hit the net, finally he won. Overcome with emotion, Ivanisevic climbed into the stands to hug his father.

Tennis is always a game of mixed emotions, sometimes players win and celebrate while sometimes players cries after losing the match. Here's a look at the top five most emotional moments of Wimbledon history:

5 most emotional Wimbledon moments - when wild card Ivanisevic won after losing three finals

The stage is all set for the 138th edition of Wimbledon. The most prestigious tournament is already underway from Monday (June 30) onwards. Played on grass courts and known for its royal traditions, Wimbledon always promises exciting matches and unforgettable moments. This year top players like Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic, Jannik Sinner, Iga Swiatek, Coco Gauff and Aryna Sabalenka will once again battle it out at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in London.&nbsp;What’s happening in the first week?During the first week, fans will see action from the men’s and women’s singles and doubles matches along with mixed doubles. In the second week (July 8–13) wheelchair tennis events will begin.&nbsp;&nbsp;Live streaming details&nbsp;<ul><li>When is Wimbledon 2025 taking place? &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</li></ul>The tournament &nbsp;will runs from June 30 to July 13, ending with the men’s singles final.&nbsp;<ul><li>Where is Wimbledon being held? &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>At the All England Club in London, UK.&nbsp;<ul><li>How can fans in India watch Wimbledon on TV? &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>It will be shown on the Star Sports Network.&nbsp;<ul><li>How to watch Wimbledon online in India? &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>Matches will be live-streamed on the JioHotstar app and website.&nbsp;<ul><li>How can fans in UK can watch Wimbledon on TV and online ? &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</li></ul>Wimbledon will be shown live on the BBC in the UK with full coverage of the tournament available to watch on BBC sports website.&nbsp;<ul><li>What’s new at Wimbledon this year? &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>For the first time, electronic line-calling will be used in all matches replacing line judges. With this update Wimbledon joins the Australian Open and US Open in using tech-based line calls.&nbsp;<ul><li>Match Schedule</li></ul>June 30 – July 1: First Round&nbsp;July 2 – 3: Second Round&nbsp;July 4 – 5: Third Round&nbsp;July 6 – 7: Fourth Round&nbsp;July 8 – 9: Quarterfinals&nbsp;July 10: Women’s Semifinals&nbsp;July 11: Men’s Semifinals&nbsp;July 12: Women’s Final&nbsp;July 13: Men’s Final<ul><li>Prize Money of Wimbledon 2025</li></ul>This year, players will compete for a total prize pool of £53.5 million (around $72 million), which is 7% more than last year. The winners of the men’s and women’s singles titles will each take home £3 million (about $4 million).

During the first week, fans will see action from the men’s and women’s singles and doubles matches along with mixed doubles. In the second week (July 8–13) wheelchair tennis events will begin. 

The stage is all set for the 138th edition of Wimbledon. The most prestigious tournament is already underway from Monday (June 30) onwards. Played on grass courts and known for its royal traditions, Wimbledon always promises exciting matches and unforgettable moments. This year top players like Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic, Jannik Sinner, Iga Swiatek, Coco Gauff and Aryna Sabalenka will once again battle it out at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in London. What’s happening in the first week? During the first week, fans will see action from the men’s and women’s singles and doubles matches along with mixed doubles. In the second week (July 8–13) wheelchair tennis events will begin. Live streaming details When is Wimbledon 2025 taking place? The tournament will runs from June 30 to July 13, ending with the men’s singles final. Where is Wimbledon being held? At the All England Club in London, UK. How can fans in India watch Wimbledon on TV? It will be shown on the Star Sports Network. How to watch Wimbledon online in India? Matches will be live-streamed on the JioHotstar app and website. How can fans in UK can watch Wimbledon on TV and online ? Wimbledon will be shown live on the BBC in the UK with full coverage of the tournament available to watch on BBC sports website. What’s new at Wimbledon this year? For the first time, electronic line-calling will be used in all matches replacing line judges. With this update Wimbledon joins the Australian Open and US Open in using tech-based line calls. Match Schedule June 30 – July 1: First Round July 2 – 3: Second Round July 4 – 5: Third Round July 6 – 7: Fourth Round July 8 – 9: Quarterfinals July 10: Women’s Semifinals July 11: Men’s Semifinals July 12: Women’s Final July 13: Men’s Final Prize Money of Wimbledon 2025 This year, players will compete for a total prize pool of £53.5 million (around $72 million), which is 7% more than last year. The winners of the men’s and women’s singles titles will each take home £3 million (about $4 million).

During the first week, fans will see action from the men’s and women’s singles and doubles matches along with mixed doubles. In the second week (July 8–13) wheelchair tennis events will begin.&nbsp;

How to watch Wimbledon 2025 in India and UK? Check the complete schedule, prize money and more

Italian Jannik Sinner said on Sunday he had experienced "a few sleepless nights" since his historic French Open final loss to Carlos Alcaraz.&nbsp;Sinner, 23, tasted defeat after five hours and 29 minutes in Roland Garros' longest ever final last weekend and wasted three match points, having been two sets up.&nbsp;"I had already a few sleepless nights, but I think every day it gets better," Sinner told reporters before starting his grass season in Halle, Germany, next week. "Tennis is important in my life, but nevertheless, family and friends more important.&nbsp;"Nonetheless, I think often about the match," the world number one added.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-fifa-club-world-cup-2025-lionel-messi-denied-late-winner-as-inter-miami-draw-with-al-ahly-1749960361353">FIFA Club World Cup 2025: Lionel Messi denied late winner as Inter Miami draw with Al Ahly</a>&nbsp;Sinner failed to add to his Australian and US Open titles in the already legendary decider with Spaniard Alcaraz in Paris.&nbsp;He returned home to Trentino-South Tyrol after the gruelling encounter on clay.&nbsp;"I was very relaxed with my family. We grilled a bit, played table tennis with my friends," Sinner said.&nbsp;"Really normal things, nothing special. I like going home, when a lot is going on.&nbsp;"I feel safe at home and with my friends," he added.&nbsp;Sinner returned from a three-month doping suspension in mid-May and now turns his mind to defending the title in Germany.&nbsp;&nbsp;"The ball can bounce a bit funny because of the grass, and you have to serve intelligently," Sinner said.&nbsp;"But in general, it is a surface on which I took a step forward last year, and we will see how it goes this year," he added.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Jannik Sinner admits suffering sleepless nights after losing French Open final

Italian Jannik Sinner said on Sunday he had experienced "a few sleepless nights" since his historic French Open final loss to Carlos Alcaraz. Sinner, 23, tasted defeat after five hours and 29 minutes in Roland Garros' longest ever final last weekend and wasted three match points, having been two sets up. "I had already a few sleepless nights, but I think every day it gets better," Sinner told reporters before starting his grass season in Halle, Germany, next week. "Tennis is important in my life, but nevertheless, family and friends more important. "Nonetheless, I think often about the match," the world number one added. Also read | FIFA Club World Cup 2025: Lionel Messi denied late winner as Inter Miami draw with Al Ahly Sinner failed to add to his Australian and US Open titles in the already legendary decider with Spaniard Alcaraz in Paris. He returned home to Trentino-South Tyrol after the gruelling encounter on clay. "I was very relaxed with my family. We grilled a bit, played table tennis with my friends," Sinner said. "Really normal things, nothing special. I like going home, when a lot is going on. "I feel safe at home and with my friends," he added. Sinner returned from a three-month doping suspension in mid-May and now turns his mind to defending the title in Germany. "The ball can bounce a bit funny because of the grass, and you have to serve intelligently," Sinner said. "But in general, it is a surface on which I took a step forward last year, and we will see how it goes this year," he added. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Sinner, 23, tasted defeat after five hours and 29 minutes in Roland Garros' longest ever final last weekend and wasted three match points, having been two sets up.

Sinner admits suffering ‘sleepless nights’ after losing historic French Open final to Alcaraz

Wimbledon prize money will increase by seven percent to a record pot of £53.5 million ($72.6 million) for this year's championships as pressure grows from players for a greater slice of Grand Slam profits.The winners of the men's and women's singles titles will each receive £3 million, an increase of more than 11 per cent on 2024, while a main draw spot is worth a minimum of £66,000, up 10 percent.The All England Club's announcement comes after growing player demands for a bigger share of revenue from the four majors.In April, 20 leading players sent a letter to the heads of the Grand Slams calling for greater contributions and discussions were held during the French Open.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-poland-coach-michal-probierz-resigns-after-robert-lewandowski-boycott-and-2026-fifa-world-cup-qualifier-loss-1749727014608">Poland coach Probierz resigns after Lewandowski boycott and WC qualifier loss</a>All England Club chairwoman Debbie Jevans said at Wimbledon's pre-tournament media briefing on Thursday the club was "absolutely committed to continuing our longstanding commitment to player compensation"."We're immensely proud of the fact that if you look back 10 years, you can see the increase over that period (of 100 percent) and seven per cent this year," she said."We have listened to the players, we have engaged with the players. Of course we will always listen and discuss with them but the focus on just the prize money at four events, the Grand Slams, does not get to the heart of what the challenge is with tennis."The challenge with tennis is the fact that the players don't have an off-season, which they want, they have increasing injuries that they're speaking about and we've always said that we as Wimbledon are willing to engage and talk with the tours to try and find solutions and that door remains open."As yet, there hasn't been any proposal to us as to how the tour is able to change its structure."There's a bigger picture here but, as a tennis player, they're always going to, I think, ask for more money."In a major change at Wimbledon this year, line judges are being replaced by a live electronic calling system.The All England club follows the Australian Open and the US Open in implementing the change, though the French Open still uses human officials.Around 80 former officials will be employed this year as match assistants, with two on each court offering support to the umpire, while they will also provide back-up should the electronic system fail.Wimbledon runs from June 30 to July 13, with Carlos Alcaraz and Barbora Krejcikova the defending champions.Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

In April, 20 leading players sent a letter to the heads of the Grand Slams calling for greater contributions and discussions were held during the French Open.

Wimbledon prize money will increase by seven percent to a record pot of £53.5 million ($72.6 million) for this year's championships as pressure grows from players for a greater slice of Grand Slam profits. The winners of the men's and women's singles titles will each receive £3 million, an increase of more than 11 per cent on 2024, while a main draw spot is worth a minimum of £66,000, up 10 percent. The All England Club's announcement comes after growing player demands for a bigger share of revenue from the four majors. In April, 20 leading players sent a letter to the heads of the Grand Slams calling for greater contributions and discussions were held during the French Open. Also Read - Poland coach Probierz resigns after Lewandowski boycott and WC qualifier loss All England Club chairwoman Debbie Jevans said at Wimbledon's pre-tournament media briefing on Thursday the club was "absolutely committed to continuing our longstanding commitment to player compensation". "We're immensely proud of the fact that if you look back 10 years, you can see the increase over that period (of 100 percent) and seven per cent this year," she said. "We have listened to the players, we have engaged with the players. Of course we will always listen and discuss with them but the focus on just the prize money at four events, the Grand Slams, does not get to the heart of what the challenge is with tennis. "The challenge with tennis is the fact that the players don't have an off-season, which they want, they have increasing injuries that they're speaking about and we've always said that we as Wimbledon are willing to engage and talk with the tours to try and find solutions and that door remains open. "As yet, there hasn't been any proposal to us as to how the tour is able to change its structure. "There's a bigger picture here but, as a tennis player, they're always going to, I think, ask for more money." In a major change at Wimbledon this year, line judges are being replaced by a live electronic calling system. The All England club follows the Australian Open and the US Open in implementing the change, though the French Open still uses human officials. Around 80 former officials will be employed this year as match assistants, with two on each court offering support to the umpire, while they will also provide back-up should the electronic system fail. Wimbledon runs from June 30 to July 13, with Carlos Alcaraz and Barbora Krejcikova the defending champions. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

In April, 20 leading players sent a letter to the heads of the Grand Slams calling for greater contributions and discussions were held during the French Open.

Wimbledon prize money set to increase by seven percent amid growing pressure from players

Women tennis players who take time out of the game to freeze eggs or embryos will have their ranking protected, the WTA Tour announced on Wednesday.&nbsp;Players ranked from one to 750 in singles or doubles who spend at least 10 consecutive weeks out of competition for a "fertility protection procedure" are eligible.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-i-would-like-to-bring-gold-from-there-for-india-table-tennis-sensation-ankur-bhattacharjee-1749636800893">Exclusive: I would like to bring gold from there for India, says table tennis sensation Ankur Bhattacharjee</a>&nbsp;The ranking can be used to enter up to three tournaments, but the policy does not apply to the premier 1000 events.&nbsp;The special ranking will be based on the 12-week average of a player's WTA ranking from eight weeks prior to the start of their out-of-competition period.&nbsp;Sloane Stephens, the 2017 US Open champion, told the BBC the rule will reduce the pressure on players to return to the court too quickly.&nbsp;Stephens said she had twice previously used the off-season to freeze her eggs.&nbsp;The 32-year-old said in the WTA statement that she was "incredibly proud of our sport in recognising the importance of fertility treatments for female athletes".&nbsp;"For any woman, the conversation of family life versus a career is nuanced and complex," she said.&nbsp;&nbsp;"The WTA has now created a safe space for players to explore options and to make the best decisions for themselves."&nbsp;The WTA said in a statement that the "Fertility Protection Special Entry Ranking Rule" would enhance the existing package of benefits to help players combine family life with tennis.&nbsp;WTA CEO Portia Archer said, "We understand that professional athletes can face a dilemma between focusing on their career and starting a family, and we are committed to supporting WTA players as they navigate and balance the choices associated with career and family."&nbsp;In March, the WTA and Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) announced the introduction of a maternity fund programme, giving players paid maternity leave for up to 12 months and access to grants for fertility treatments.&nbsp;&nbsp;The PIF is a global partner of the WTA Tour.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Women’s Tennis Association to protect rankings for players who freeze eggs

Women tennis players who take time out of the game to freeze eggs or embryos will have their ranking protected, the WTA Tour announced on Wednesday. Players ranked from one to 750 in singles or doubles who spend at least 10 consecutive weeks out of competition for a "fertility protection procedure" are eligible. Also read | Exclusive: I would like to bring gold from there for India, says table tennis sensation Ankur Bhattacharjee The ranking can be used to enter up to three tournaments, but the policy does not apply to the premier 1000 events. The special ranking will be based on the 12-week average of a player's WTA ranking from eight weeks prior to the start of their out-of-competition period. Sloane Stephens, the 2017 US Open champion, told the BBC the rule will reduce the pressure on players to return to the court too quickly. Stephens said she had twice previously used the off-season to freeze her eggs. The 32-year-old said in the WTA statement that she was "incredibly proud of our sport in recognising the importance of fertility treatments for female athletes". "For any woman, the conversation of family life versus a career is nuanced and complex," she said. "The WTA has now created a safe space for players to explore options and to make the best decisions for themselves." The WTA said in a statement that the "Fertility Protection Special Entry Ranking Rule" would enhance the existing package of benefits to help players combine family life with tennis. WTA CEO Portia Archer said, "We understand that professional athletes can face a dilemma between focusing on their career and starting a family, and we are committed to supporting WTA players as they navigate and balance the choices associated with career and family." In March, the WTA and Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) announced the introduction of a maternity fund programme, giving players paid maternity leave for up to 12 months and access to grants for fertility treatments. The PIF is a global partner of the WTA Tour. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Players ranked from one to 750 in singles or doubles who spend at least 10 consecutive weeks out of competition for a "fertility protection procedure" are eligible.&nbsp;

Former US Open champion Emma Raducanu stole the spotlight as women's tennis made a historic return to Queen's Club for the first time in 52 years on Monday.With the dust barely settled from the thrilling French Open titles won by Carlos Alcaraz and Coco Gauff last weekend, Queen's marks the transition to grass courts and this year's event is a milestone moment in the tennis calendar.Since 1973, Queen's has been solely an ATP event.But a ground-breaking deal was struck last year to play a WTA 500 tournament in Barons Court before the men compete from June 16.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/carlos-alcaraz-total-grand-slam-titles-is-he-officially-one-of-the-successors-of-big-three-1749472438453">Is Carlos Alcaraz officially one of the successors of Big Three? His titles and fitness surely favour him</a>Reigning Wimbledon champion Barbora Krejcikova, Australian Open holder Madison Keys, 2022 Wimbledon winner Elena Rybakina and world number five Zheng Qinwen are among the female stars set to feature at Queen's this week.But Raducanu, who famously won the US Open as an 18-year-old qualifier in 2021, was the headline act on opening day.Fans queued for an hour to see the British star partnered with Katie Boulter in their 6-4, 6-2 first round doubles win over Jiang Xinyu and Wu Feng-Hsien.Raducanu, who faces Cristina Bucsa in the singles first round on Tuesday, enjoyed the experience on the intimate Court One, bantering with Boulter and even laughing with spectators."I love playing on those smaller courts where you really feel the support and crowd gets into it," she said."I was filling my bottle up and I was literally having a chat in the stands because that's how close it is. It puts a really nice feel to it."Raducanu, who has struggled with poor form and back spasms this year, looked reinvigorated alongside Boulter.It was an especially memorable afternoon for Raducanu after her visits to Queen's as a child."When I came with my dad, I was more hunting the (chocolate) brownies around the grounds and not so interested in the tennis! To be back now and competing in it feels amazing," the world number 37 said.Fittingly, Queen's centre court was officially renamed the Andy Murray Arena on Monday in tribute to the retired Scot's five titles in the men's event.‘A privilege’ Former world number one Murray has been an vocal advocate of women's tennis and was coached as a boy by Russian Olga Morozova, who was the last female Queen's champion in 1973."Having women's tennis back at Queen's for the first time in over 50 years is brilliant," the two-time Wimbledon winner said."I just met the last winner here, Olga Morozova, who actually coached me when I was 12, 13 years old."It's a great chance for women to showcase themselves out there."When Morozova triumphed over half a century ago, the tournament was much different.Players arrived on the London underground, rain forced matches to be moved indoors on to a wooden court and the champion received just £1,000 ($1,353) in prize money.Sunday's final winner will bank a cheque for £120,000, but the total prize money fund for the women's tournament is only £1.043 million, while the men's event has a £2.122 million pot.Responding to criticism of that disparity, the Lawn Tennis Association pledged to have equal prize money at Queen's by 2029.Despite the awkward prize money optics, the mood at Queen's was resolutely upbeat."It's a seminal moment, given it's the first time we've had a women's tournament in London for more than 50 years," LTA managing director Chris Pollard said."In many respects it's long overdue."Over 80 percent of the tickets for the week have been sold, with fans treated to a dramatic first round loss for former Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova.Kvitova, who became a mother for the first time last year, was beaten 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 by Brazil's Beatriz Haddad Maia.The 35-year-old Czech has lost six of her seven matches since returning from maternity leave in February."It's a privilege to be here," Haddad Maia said."This club is very special and it means a lot to be on this stadium in front of everyone who loves tennis."Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.&nbsp;

Reigning Wimbledon champion Barbora Krejcikova, Australian Open holder Madison Keys, 2022 Wimbledon winner Elena Rybakina and world number five Zheng Qinwen are among the female stars set to feature at Queen's this week.

Former US Open champion Emma Raducanu stole the spotlight as women's tennis made a historic return to Queen's Club for the first time in 52 years on Monday. With the dust barely settled from the thrilling French Open titles won by Carlos Alcaraz and Coco Gauff last weekend, Queen's marks the transition to grass courts and this year's event is a milestone moment in the tennis calendar. Since 1973, Queen's has been solely an ATP event. But a ground-breaking deal was struck last year to play a WTA 500 tournament in Barons Court before the men compete from June 16. Also Read - Is Carlos Alcaraz officially one of the successors of Big Three? His titles and fitness surely favour him Reigning Wimbledon champion Barbora Krejcikova, Australian Open holder Madison Keys, 2022 Wimbledon winner Elena Rybakina and world number five Zheng Qinwen are among the female stars set to feature at Queen's this week. But Raducanu, who famously won the US Open as an 18-year-old qualifier in 2021, was the headline act on opening day. Fans queued for an hour to see the British star partnered with Katie Boulter in their 6-4, 6-2 first round doubles win over Jiang Xinyu and Wu Feng-Hsien. Raducanu, who faces Cristina Bucsa in the singles first round on Tuesday, enjoyed the experience on the intimate Court One, bantering with Boulter and even laughing with spectators. "I love playing on those smaller courts where you really feel the support and crowd gets into it," she said. "I was filling my bottle up and I was literally having a chat in the stands because that's how close it is. It puts a really nice feel to it." Raducanu, who has struggled with poor form and back spasms this year, looked reinvigorated alongside Boulter. It was an especially memorable afternoon for Raducanu after her visits to Queen's as a child. "When I came with my dad, I was more hunting the (chocolate) brownies around the grounds and not so interested in the tennis! To be back now and competing in it feels amazing," the world number 37 said. Fittingly, Queen's centre court was officially renamed the Andy Murray Arena on Monday in tribute to the retired Scot's five titles in the men's event. ‘A privilege’ Former world number one Murray has been an vocal advocate of women's tennis and was coached as a boy by Russian Olga Morozova, who was the last female Queen's champion in 1973. "Having women's tennis back at Queen's for the first time in over 50 years is brilliant," the two-time Wimbledon winner said. "I just met the last winner here, Olga Morozova, who actually coached me when I was 12, 13 years old. "It's a great chance for women to showcase themselves out there." When Morozova triumphed over half a century ago, the tournament was much different. Players arrived on the London underground, rain forced matches to be moved indoors on to a wooden court and the champion received just £1,000 ($1,353) in prize money. Sunday's final winner will bank a cheque for £120,000, but the total prize money fund for the women's tournament is only £1.043 million, while the men's event has a £2.122 million pot. Responding to criticism of that disparity, the Lawn Tennis Association pledged to have equal prize money at Queen's by 2029. Despite the awkward prize money optics, the mood at Queen's was resolutely upbeat. "It's a seminal moment, given it's the first time we've had a women's tournament in London for more than 50 years," LTA managing director Chris Pollard said. "In many respects it's long overdue." Over 80 percent of the tickets for the week have been sold, with fans treated to a dramatic first round loss for former Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova. Kvitova, who became a mother for the first time last year, was beaten 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 by Brazil's Beatriz Haddad Maia. The 35-year-old Czech has lost six of her seven matches since returning from maternity leave in February. "It's a privilege to be here," Haddad Maia said. "This club is very special and it means a lot to be on this stadium in front of everyone who loves tennis." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Reigning Wimbledon champion Barbora Krejcikova, Australian Open holder Madison Keys, 2022 Wimbledon winner Elena Rybakina and world number five Zheng Qinwen are among the female stars set to feature at Queen's this week.

Women's tennis return to Queen's in 52 years and US Open 2021 champ Emma Raducanu stars on historic day

Novak Djokovic breezed past Filip Misolic to book his spot in the last 16 at Roland Garros on Saturday, but the 24-time Grand Slam winner had to battle with the Champions League final for the crowd's attention in Paris.&nbsp;The three-time French Open champion needed just over two hours to beat his 153rd-ranked Austrian opponent 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 in the night session on Court Philippe Chatrier.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-french-open-2025-alexander-zverev-cruises-into-fourth-round-jannik-sinner-eases-past-jiri-lehecka-1748702842281">French Open 2025: Alexander Zverev cruises into fourth round; Jannik Sinner eases past Jiri Lehecka</a>&nbsp;Djokovic had previously joked that he was not keen on potentially playing the late match on centre court on Saturday as it would prevent him watching Paris Saint-Germain take on Inter Milan in the Champions League final in Munich.&nbsp;Football fan Djokovic may have missed the majority of PSG's 5-0 demolition of Inter, but the Serb told reporters after his win the final made its presence felt on court in Paris.&nbsp;"I don't know if it was good for me to get this scheduled slot, because it was interesting, the crowd was really following the (football) game," said Djokovic.&nbsp;&nbsp;"And I could hear once they (PSG) scored, and it was way too many times that they were celebrating. I was like, 'Wow, there's a lot of goals from Paris' and 'What's going on?'.&nbsp;"So now I heard it's 5-0, so it's quite a result, to be honest," added the AC Milan supporter.&nbsp;Djokovic told reporters he was unsure how everyone would be getting home from Roland Garros as the French capital prepared to celebrate its first Champions League title.&nbsp;"It's going to be quite a journey, quite an adventure (getting home)," he joked. "But I think we are in for a long celebration and probably not much sleep tonight. So it's a fun night to be in Paris, I guess!"&nbsp;Despite the umpire being obliged to request excited local spectators concentrate on the match happening in front of them, Djokovic was still able to keep his mind firmly focused on his quest for a record-breaking 25th major title.&nbsp;"Nine out of nine sets won (in the tournament). Again, tonight, solid when I needed to be," he said.&nbsp;"But credit to Filip for really coming up with some great points, great shots, and really playing courageous tennis.&nbsp;"I think there's always something to improve, something to get better at, but overall, I have to be pleased with the level of tennis so far."&nbsp;The 38-year-old faced only one break point, which he saved, while hitting just 14 unforced errors to 33 winners.&nbsp;The sixth seed will face 81st-ranked Cameron Norrie for a spot in the quarter-finals, after the former top 10 Brit eliminated his compatriot Jacob Fearnley.&nbsp;Djokovic beat Norrie in three sets earlier this month on the red dirt in Geneva on his way to securing a century of ATP titles.&nbsp;The semi-final win extended his perfect record against Norrie to five wins from five.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

French Open 2025: Djokovic storms in fourth round in fun night to be in Paris

Novak Djokovic breezed past Filip Misolic to book his spot in the last 16 at Roland Garros on Saturday, but the 24-time Grand Slam winner had to battle with the Champions League final for the crowd's attention in Paris. The three-time French Open champion needed just over two hours to beat his 153rd-ranked Austrian opponent 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 in the night session on Court Philippe Chatrier. Also read | French Open 2025: Alexander Zverev cruises into fourth round; Jannik Sinner eases past Jiri Lehecka Djokovic had previously joked that he was not keen on potentially playing the late match on centre court on Saturday as it would prevent him watching Paris Saint-Germain take on Inter Milan in the Champions League final in Munich. Football fan Djokovic may have missed the majority of PSG's 5-0 demolition of Inter, but the Serb told reporters after his win the final made its presence felt on court in Paris. "I don't know if it was good for me to get this scheduled slot, because it was interesting, the crowd was really following the (football) game," said Djokovic. "And I could hear once they (PSG) scored, and it was way too many times that they were celebrating. I was like, 'Wow, there's a lot of goals from Paris' and 'What's going on?'. "So now I heard it's 5-0, so it's quite a result, to be honest," added the AC Milan supporter. Djokovic told reporters he was unsure how everyone would be getting home from Roland Garros as the French capital prepared to celebrate its first Champions League title. "It's going to be quite a journey, quite an adventure (getting home)," he joked. "But I think we are in for a long celebration and probably not much sleep tonight. So it's a fun night to be in Paris, I guess!" Despite the umpire being obliged to request excited local spectators concentrate on the match happening in front of them, Djokovic was still able to keep his mind firmly focused on his quest for a record-breaking 25th major title. "Nine out of nine sets won (in the tournament). Again, tonight, solid when I needed to be," he said. "But credit to Filip for really coming up with some great points, great shots, and really playing courageous tennis. "I think there's always something to improve, something to get better at, but overall, I have to be pleased with the level of tennis so far." The 38-year-old faced only one break point, which he saved, while hitting just 14 unforced errors to 33 winners. The sixth seed will face 81st-ranked Cameron Norrie for a spot in the quarter-finals, after the former top 10 Brit eliminated his compatriot Jacob Fearnley. Djokovic beat Norrie in three sets earlier this month on the red dirt in Geneva on his way to securing a century of ATP titles. The semi-final win extended his perfect record against Norrie to five wins from five. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

The three-time French Open champion needed just over two hours to beat his 153rd-ranked Austrian opponent 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 in the night session on Court Philippe Chatrier.

French Open 2025: Djokovic storms in fourth round in 'fun night to be in Paris'

From Novak Djokovic to Roger Federer, here are the top 5 men’s singles players with the most Grand Slam titles in the Open Era featuring Rafael Nadal, Pete Sampras, and Andre Agassi. These 5 legends shaped the tennis history.

From Novak Djokovic to Roger Federer, here are the top 5 men’s singles players with the most Grand Slam titles in the Open Era featuring Rafael Nadal, Pete Sampras, and Andre Agassi. These 5 legends shaped the tennis history.

Open Era legends: 5 most successful men in Grand Slam history

World number one <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jannik-sinner" rel="dofollow">Jannik Sinner</a> announced on Monday the creation of a foundation in his name aimed at "empowering children through education and sports", six days out from the Italian's return to action after a doping ban.<o:p></o:p>
The Jannik Sinner Foundation "will support sports programmes, school projects and community initiatives to make sports and education more accessible to the next generation" in Italy and abroad.<o:p></o:p>
"For me, it's an honour to support children and young athletes," said Sinner in a statement. "Sports have taught me invaluable lessons: discipline, resilience and the courage to stay true to myself.&nbsp;
<o:p></o:p>"Lessons that I believe are worth sharing. Through our work, we want to show kids what's possible, not just in sports but in life."<o:p></o:p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-ma16r35x-nyqrkuua-fshh0g4z">
Launching the Jannik Sinner Foundation<a href="https://t.co/s1nozJsWtg">https://t.co/s1nozJsWtg</a> <a href="https://t.co/pUVakDnEXC">pic.twitter.com/pUVakDnEXC</a>
&mdash; Jannik Sinner (@janniksin) <a href="https://twitter.com/janniksin/status/1916805300784419195?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2025</a></blockquote>
The foundation will be chaired by Sinner's manager Alex Vittur, and Formula One supremo Stefano Domenicali will sit on the board of directors.<o:p></o:p>
Sinner, 23, has been out of action since accepting a three-month doping ban in February after twice testing positive for traces of clostebol in March last year.<o:p></o:p>
The three-time Grand Slam winner is due to return before the Rome Open, which runs from May 7-18.<o:p></o:p>
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Sinner has been out of action since accepting a three-month doping ban in February after twice testing positive for traces of clostebol in March last year. Sports, Tennis

World number one Jannik Sinner announced on Monday the creation of a foundation in his name aimed at "empowering children through education and sports", six days out from the Italian's return to action after a doping ban. The Jannik Sinner Foundation "will support sports programmes, school projects and community initiatives to make sports and education more accessible to the next generation" in Italy and abroad. "For me, it's an honour to support children and young athletes," said Sinner in a statement. "Sports have taught me invaluable lessons: discipline, resilience and the courage to stay true to myself. "Lessons that I believe are worth sharing. Through our work, we want to show kids what's possible, not just in sports but in life." Launching the Jannik Sinner Foundationhttps://t.co/s1nozJsWtg pic.twitter.com/pUVakDnEXC — Jannik Sinner (@janniksin) April 28, 2025 The foundation will be chaired by Sinner's manager Alex Vittur, and Formula One supremo Stefano Domenicali will sit on the board of directors. Sinner, 23, has been out of action since accepting a three-month doping ban in February after twice testing positive for traces of clostebol in March last year. The three-time Grand Slam winner is due to return before the Rome Open, which runs from May 7-18. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Suspended world number one Jannik Sinner launches foundation supporting children

Has Carlos Alcaraz already reached the level of the legendary big three in tennis? Well Novak Djokovic certainly thinks so and the 24 time Grand Slam champion believes that Alcaraz has already achieved more at 21 than he and his fellow legends Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer had at that age. Watch in for more details!

Novak Djokovic believes Carlos Alcaraz has reached the big 3 level

British tennis player Harriet Dart drew severe social media backlash for the 'stinky' comments she made on her opponent Lois Boisson during Rouen Open on Tuesday (Apr 14). Dart, who lost the match 6-0, 6-3, had asked the chair umpire during the changeover to tell Boisson to put on deodorant.
The comment by Dart was picked up during the broadcast and she was called out by fans for her statement.
"Can you ask her to put on deodorant? She smells really bad," Dart was heard saying to the umpire against the Frenchwoman.
Also Read -&nbsp;<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-2025-kkr-sunil-narine-and-anrich-nortje-bats-fail-gauge-check-in-loss-vs-pbks-8968125" aria-label="IPL 2025 | KKR's Sunil Narine and Anrich Nortje's bats fail gauge check in loss vs PBKS - WATCH">IPL 2025 | KKR's Sunil Narine and Anrich Nortje's bats fail gauge check in loss vs PBKS - WATCH</a>
After the backlash, however, Dart apologized for her comments and put up a post on social media platform Instagram which read: "It was a comment made in the heat of the moment and I truly regret it. It's not the way I want to behave and I take full responsibility," Dart wrote. "I have a lot of respect for Lois and the way she competed today. I'll learn from this and move on."
Dart's counterpart Boisson, however, was rather chill about the comments and took it lightly. She also put up a story post on Instagram with deodorant brand Dove. She used a Dove deodorant image over hand and wrote "apparently need a collab." Have a look at the post below:
<figure class="image"><img alt="boisson" src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/481x767/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/04/16/2nFKFZ0PaMZwcn6814Xi.JPG" style="width: 481px;">
<figcaption>Lois Boisson was too cool about stinky comments Photograph: (Instagram)</figcaption>
</figure>
The win also was sweet for Boisson, who is ranked 303rd in world and was making a comeback after the injury break. Dart, on the other hand, is ranked 62 in the world but her games wasn't up to the mark at all.
The Brit had six chances to win break points in the two-set match but failed to convert any one of them to her advantage.&nbsp;

After the backlash for her comments about Boisson, however, Dart apologized for her comments and put up a post on social media platform Instagram. Sports

British tennis player Harriet Dart drew severe social media backlash for the 'stinky' comments she made on her opponent Lois Boisson during Rouen Open on Tuesday (Apr 14). Dart, who lost the match 6-0, 6-3, had asked the chair umpire during the changeover to tell Boisson to put on deodorant. The comment by Dart was picked up during the broadcast and she was called out by fans for her statement. "Can you ask her to put on deodorant? She smells really bad," Dart was heard saying to the umpire against the Frenchwoman. Also Read - IPL 2025 | KKR's Sunil Narine and Anrich Nortje's bats fail gauge check in loss vs PBKS - WATCH After the backlash, however, Dart apologized for her comments and put up a post on social media platform Instagram which read: "It was a comment made in the heat of the moment and I truly regret it. It's not the way I want to behave and I take full responsibility," Dart wrote. "I have a lot of respect for Lois and the way she competed today. I'll learn from this and move on." Dart's counterpart Boisson, however, was rather chill about the comments and took it lightly. She also put up a story post on Instagram with deodorant brand Dove. She used a Dove deodorant image over hand and wrote "apparently need a collab." Have a look at the post below: Lois Boisson was too cool about stinky comments Photograph: (Instagram) The win also was sweet for Boisson, who is ranked 303rd in world and was making a comeback after the injury break. Dart, on the other hand, is ranked 62 in the world but her games wasn't up to the mark at all. The Brit had six chances to win break points in the two-set match but failed to convert any one of them to her advantage.

'Have a lot of respect for...,' British tennis player Harriet Dart on her STINKY comments about Lois Boisson

Carlos Alcaraz cruised into the Monte Carlo Masters quarter-finals for the first time on Thursday with a straight-set win over Daniel Altmaier, while British fifth seed Jack Draper was knocked out by Alejandro Davidovich Fokina. Four-time Grand Slam champion Alcaraz brushed aside 84th-ranked German Altmaier 6-3, 6-1 to set up a last-eight clash with rising French star Arthur Fils on Friday.<o:p></o:p>
"His (Fils') level is really high right now," said Alcaraz. "I saw a little bit from his match today, and he's playing great. I'm not gonna be scared -- that's for sure."<o:p></o:p>
Alcaraz took some time to find his rhythm as Altmaier broke him back to level at 3-3 in the first set, but it was one-way traffic from then on.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/stop-stalking-japanese-badminton-star-chiharu-shidas-on-the-face-message-to-chinese-fans-8947729" rel="dofollow">'Stop Stalking'- Japanese badminton star's on-the-face message to Chinese fans</a>
The second seed reeled off three straight games to take the first set before racing through the second in just over half an hour.<o:p></o:p>
"At the beginning of the match, we played really long and tough rallies, really close games," added Alcaraz. "I think we both played great tennis. At the end of the first set, I think I played such a great level."<o:p></o:p>
The 21-year-old, the reigning French Open and Wimbledon champion, is the favourite to lift the title this weekend after early exits for top seed Alexander Zverev and Novak Djokovic.<o:p></o:p>
Alcaraz was beaten in his first match on his only previous appearance at the tournament in 2022.<o:p></o:p>
Fils eased into his third successive Masters quarter-final this season with an impressive 6-2, 6-3 thrashing of 2023 champion Andrey Rublev. The 20-year-old Fils is aiming to reach the semis of a Masters event for the first time, after losing in the last eight at both Indian Wells and the Miami Open this year.<o:p></o:p>
"If it's him, it's going to be the first time I'm going to play him," Fils said of meeting Alcaraz. "It's going to be a good experience. He's a big champion. He won four Grand Slams already. I didn't win a single one."
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Sports, Tennis: Alcaraz took some time to find his rhythm as Altmaier broke him back to level at 3-3 in the first set, but it was one-way traffic from then on.

Carlos Alcaraz cruised into the Monte Carlo Masters quarter-finals for the first time on Thursday with a straight-set win over Daniel Altmaier, while British fifth seed Jack Draper was knocked out by Alejandro Davidovich Fokina. Four-time Grand Slam champion Alcaraz brushed aside 84th-ranked German Altmaier 6-3, 6-1 to set up a last-eight clash with rising French star Arthur Fils on Friday. "His (Fils') level is really high right now," said Alcaraz. "I saw a little bit from his match today, and he's playing great. I'm not gonna be scared -- that's for sure." Alcaraz took some time to find his rhythm as Altmaier broke him back to level at 3-3 in the first set, but it was one-way traffic from then on. Also read | 'Stop Stalking'- Japanese badminton star's on-the-face message to Chinese fans The second seed reeled off three straight games to take the first set before racing through the second in just over half an hour. "At the beginning of the match, we played really long and tough rallies, really close games," added Alcaraz. "I think we both played great tennis. At the end of the first set, I think I played such a great level." The 21-year-old, the reigning French Open and Wimbledon champion, is the favourite to lift the title this weekend after early exits for top seed Alexander Zverev and Novak Djokovic. Alcaraz was beaten in his first match on his only previous appearance at the tournament in 2022. Fils eased into his third successive Masters quarter-final this season with an impressive 6-2, 6-3 thrashing of 2023 champion Andrey Rublev. The 20-year-old Fils is aiming to reach the semis of a Masters event for the first time, after losing in the last eight at both Indian Wells and the Miami Open this year. "If it's him, it's going to be the first time I'm going to play him," Fils said of meeting Alcaraz. "It's going to be a good experience. He's a big champion. He won four Grand Slams already. I didn't win a single one." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Tennis: Carlos Alcaraz creates history with maiden Monte Carlos Masters QF berth

A civil war has erupted in tennis. The Professional Tennis Players Association, the players' union co-founded by Novak Djokovic, has taken legal action against tennis's governing bodies, citing anti-competitive practices and a blatant disregard for player welfare.

Novak Djokovic-led players' body takes legal action against tours

Carlos Alcaraz crashed out of his Indian Wells three-peat bid on Saturday, and nerves played a key role in "one of the worst sets I have played in my career." <o:p></o:p>
A four-time Grand Slam champion, Alcaraz said he was too focused on what weapons British left-hander Jack Draper might bring and unable to calm the pre-match jitters that prevented him from rising to the occasion.<o:p></o:p>
Draper, ranked 14th in the world, beat Alcaraz 6-1, 0-6, 6-4 to end the Spaniard's dream of joining Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic as the only men to win three straight titles in the California desert.<o:p></o:p>
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"Obviously I wanted to win the third in a row, but I can't pretend to win every match," Alcaraz said. "I am not as upset about not getting the third one in a row. I am upset about myself, about the way that I approached the match, the way that I felt during the whole day, that I couldn't calm down myself."<o:p></o:p>
"That's, for me, the most disappointed thing that I'm feeling right now, because (it) is probably one of the worst sets that I have played in my whole career, the first set."<o:p></o:p>
In a place he described this week as "peaceful," Alcaraz said he was on edge all day and warmed up poorly before the match.<o:p></o:p>
"I always say that I have to be focused on myself, on my own game. I think today I was more worried about his level, his game, than myself," he said.<o:p></o:p>
The result was an erratic effort from Alcaraz, who had sailed through his first three matches with the loss of just 10 games before pulling off a tighter quarter-final victory over Francisco Cerundolo in straight sets.<o:p></o:p>
The 21-year-old said he was still working to find ways to maintain his highest level more consistently.<o:p></o:p>
"I think I'm improving. I'm getting more mature," he said. "I still sometimes (am) playing such a really high level, and then my level goes down a lot.<o:p></o:p>
"So, I have to think about it. I have to keep working, keep going," added Alcaraz, who insisted he would shake off the defeat and be ready for the Miami Open this coming week.<o:p></o:p>
"I consider myself a person who learns from the fails, from the losses," he said. "The last time that I lost here was the semi-final (in 2022), and after all, I won Miami, so I think I will go for it.<o:p></o:p>
"I will make the most of myself in Miami."<o:p></o:p>
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Sports, Tennis: Draper, ranked 14th, beat Alcaraz to end the Spaniard's dream of joining Federer and Djokovic as the only men to win three straight titles in the California desert.

Carlos Alcaraz crashed out of his Indian Wells three-peat bid on Saturday, and nerves played a key role in "one of the worst sets I have played in my career." A four-time Grand Slam champion, Alcaraz said he was too focused on what weapons British left-hander Jack Draper might bring and unable to calm the pre-match jitters that prevented him from rising to the occasion. Draper, ranked 14th in the world, beat Alcaraz 6-1, 0-6, 6-4 to end the Spaniard's dream of joining Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic as the only men to win three straight titles in the California desert. Also read | U-15 table tennis championship to feature India’s top young players, global talent "Obviously I wanted to win the third in a row, but I can't pretend to win every match," Alcaraz said. "I am not as upset about not getting the third one in a row. I am upset about myself, about the way that I approached the match, the way that I felt during the whole day, that I couldn't calm down myself." "That's, for me, the most disappointed thing that I'm feeling right now, because (it) is probably one of the worst sets that I have played in my whole career, the first set." In a place he described this week as "peaceful," Alcaraz said he was on edge all day and warmed up poorly before the match. "I always say that I have to be focused on myself, on my own game. I think today I was more worried about his level, his game, than myself," he said. The result was an erratic effort from Alcaraz, who had sailed through his first three matches with the loss of just 10 games before pulling off a tighter quarter-final victory over Francisco Cerundolo in straight sets. The 21-year-old said he was still working to find ways to maintain his highest level more consistently. "I think I'm improving. I'm getting more mature," he said. "I still sometimes (am) playing such a really high level, and then my level goes down a lot. "So, I have to think about it. I have to keep working, keep going," added Alcaraz, who insisted he would shake off the defeat and be ready for the Miami Open this coming week. "I consider myself a person who learns from the fails, from the losses," he said. "The last time that I lost here was the semi-final (in 2022), and after all, I won Miami, so I think I will go for it. "I will make the most of myself in Miami." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Tennis: Carlos Alcaraz ‘upset with himself’ in nervy loss at Indian Wells

Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) is to finance a joint initiative with the WTA for paid maternity leave of "up to 12 months" for players on the women's tennis circuit, it was announced on Thursday.<o:p></o:p>
The PIF WTA Maternity Fund Program "will offer benefits to more than 320 eligible WTA players", the Women's Tennis Association said in a statement.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/prosecutors-question-judges-impartiality-in-rubiales-forced-kiss-saga-demand-for-trial-re-run-8829411" rel="dofollow">Prosecutors question judge's impartiality in Rubiales forced kiss saga, demand for trial re-run</a>
"WTA players will for the first time receive paid maternity leave up to 12 months, and have access to grants for fertility treatments to build families, as well as other benefits," it read.<o:p></o:p>
Players will have to compete "in a certain number of WTA tournaments in a window of time" to benefit from the payments.<o:p></o:p>
Belinda Bencic, who won Olympic gold for Switzerland in Tokyo and has returned to the WTA tour after having daughter Bella last April, welcomed the development.<o:p></o:p>
"Absolutely it's the best news really," Bencic said after cruising past Germany's Tatjana Maria in the first round at Indian Wells in California. "I think we are very proud as players for the WTA (to be) the first sport in female sports to make this.<o:p></o:p>
"It's great for everyone who is considering to have a family and come back, especially also the lower-ranked players that have to survive somehow when they are not playing for a year and a half and then trying to come back."<o:p></o:p>
Bencic, who earned her first title since returning from her leave in Abu Dhabi in February, noted that her Thursday opponent Maria was a mother of two.<o:p></o:p>
"I'm really feeling like there are so many moms now on the tour, so we're trying to show everyone it's possible to have a baby and play professional tennis," she said.<o:p></o:p>
<h2>Support and flexibility<o:p></o:p></h2>
Two-time Grand Slam winner Victoria Azarenka, a WTA players' council representative, welcomed "the beginning of a meaningful shift in how we support women in tennis, making it easier for athletes to pursue both their careers and their aspirations of starting a family."<o:p></o:p>
"Ensuring that programs like this exist has been a personal mission of mine," the Belarusian former world number one, who gave birth to a son in 2016, was quoted in the statement as saying. <o:p></o:p>
For WTA CEO Portia Archer "this initiative will provide the current and next generation of players the support and flexibility to explore family life, in whatever form they choose."<o:p></o:p>
Several top players have taken a break from their careers to give birth, with varying degrees of impact on their subsequent careers. The WTA says 25 active players are mothers.<o:p></o:p>
Belgian Kim Clijsters won three majors -- the US Open in 2009 and 2010 and the Australian Open in 2011 -- after giving birth to her daughter in 2008, following in the footsteps of Australians Margaret Court and Evonne Goolagong, who triumphed at Grand Slams as mothers.<o:p></o:p>
However, 23-time Grand Slam winner Serena Williams did not win any after the birth of her first child in September 2017, even though the American reached four finals at Wimbledon and the US Open.<o:p></o:p>
Four-time Grand Slam winner and former world number one Naomi Osaka of Japan returned to the courts in early 2024 after giving birth to a daughter. <o:p></o:p>
Since then, the 27-year-old's best result has been a final at the modest Auckland tournament in January. <o:p></o:p>
Criticised by some tennis figures for its record on women's rights, Saudi Arabia has boosted its tennis investments in recent years, organising the season-ending WTA Finals for the first time in Riyadh last November.<o:p></o:p>
That came months after the WTA entered into a multi-year partnership with the PIF sovereign wealth fund, with the kingdom again set to host the WTA Finals in 2025 and 2026.
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports, Tennis: The PIF WTA Maternity Fund Program "will offer benefits to more than 320 eligible WTA players", the Women's Tennis Association said in a statement.

Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) is to finance a joint initiative with the WTA for paid maternity leave of "up to 12 months" for players on the women's tennis circuit, it was announced on Thursday. The PIF WTA Maternity Fund Program "will offer benefits to more than 320 eligible WTA players", the Women's Tennis Association said in a statement. Also read | Prosecutors question judge's impartiality in Rubiales forced kiss saga, demand for trial re-run "WTA players will for the first time receive paid maternity leave up to 12 months, and have access to grants for fertility treatments to build families, as well as other benefits," it read. Players will have to compete "in a certain number of WTA tournaments in a window of time" to benefit from the payments. Belinda Bencic, who won Olympic gold for Switzerland in Tokyo and has returned to the WTA tour after having daughter Bella last April, welcomed the development. "Absolutely it's the best news really," Bencic said after cruising past Germany's Tatjana Maria in the first round at Indian Wells in California. "I think we are very proud as players for the WTA (to be) the first sport in female sports to make this. "It's great for everyone who is considering to have a family and come back, especially also the lower-ranked players that have to survive somehow when they are not playing for a year and a half and then trying to come back." Bencic, who earned her first title since returning from her leave in Abu Dhabi in February, noted that her Thursday opponent Maria was a mother of two. "I'm really feeling like there are so many moms now on the tour, so we're trying to show everyone it's possible to have a baby and play professional tennis," she said. Support and flexibility Two-time Grand Slam winner Victoria Azarenka, a WTA players' council representative, welcomed "the beginning of a meaningful shift in how we support women in tennis, making it easier for athletes to pursue both their careers and their aspirations of starting a family." "Ensuring that programs like this exist has been a personal mission of mine," the Belarusian former world number one, who gave birth to a son in 2016, was quoted in the statement as saying. For WTA CEO Portia Archer "this initiative will provide the current and next generation of players the support and flexibility to explore family life, in whatever form they choose." Several top players have taken a break from their careers to give birth, with varying degrees of impact on their subsequent careers. The WTA says 25 active players are mothers. Belgian Kim Clijsters won three majors -- the US Open in 2009 and 2010 and the Australian Open in 2011 -- after giving birth to her daughter in 2008, following in the footsteps of Australians Margaret Court and Evonne Goolagong, who triumphed at Grand Slams as mothers. However, 23-time Grand Slam winner Serena Williams did not win any after the birth of her first child in September 2017, even though the American reached four finals at Wimbledon and the US Open. Four-time Grand Slam winner and former world number one Naomi Osaka of Japan returned to the courts in early 2024 after giving birth to a daughter. Since then, the 27-year-old's best result has been a final at the modest Auckland tournament in January. Criticised by some tennis figures for its record on women's rights, Saudi Arabia has boosted its tennis investments in recent years, organising the season-ending WTA Finals for the first time in Riyadh last November. That came months after the WTA entered into a multi-year partnership with the PIF sovereign wealth fund, with the kingdom again set to host the WTA Finals in 2025 and 2026. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Tennis stars welcome Saudi PIF’s ‘up to 12 months maternity leave’ initiative

Former world number one Daniil Medvedev crashed out of the Dubai Championships on Thursday, squandering four match points before losing a bad-tempered quarter-final to Tallon Griekspoor of the Netherlands. The 47th-ranked Dutchman came through 2-6, 7-6 (9/7), 7-5 as the world number six imploded.<o:p></o:p>
Medvedev, the 2023 champion in Dubai, was handed a code violation for unsportsmanlike behaviour after seeing match points slip away in the second set.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jannik-sinner-dropped-from-laureus-awards-list-after-doping-ban-8763113" rel="dofollow">Jannik Sinner dropped from Laureus awards list after doping ban</a>
As his frustration boiled over, he accused umpire Adel Nour of applying "double standards" with Russian players.<o:p></o:p>
Nour hit back, telling Medvedev that he treats all players in the same way, regardless of nationality before brushing away the top seed's complaints.<o:p></o:p>
Griekspoor kept his cool in the deciding set, taking victory on a fourth match point of his own.<o:p></o:p>
Medvedev refused to shake hands with Nour at the end of the tie.<o:p></o:p>
The 28-year-old Griekspoor, who saved three match points to see off Roman Safiullin in the first round and then overcame defending champion Ugo Humbert, will face Stefanos Tsitsipas for a place in the final.<o:p></o:p>
Fourth seed Tsitsipas battled to a 7-6 (7/5), 1-6, 6-4 win over Italy's Matteo Berrettini to reach his first semi-final since July last year.<o:p></o:p>
"I'm super happy with this win," said Griekspoor. "Daniil is an unbelievable player, an unbelievable competitor. He's been at the top of the rankings for so many years, so I'm very pleased with this win.<o:p></o:p>
"I was a little bit lucky on the match points down, and in the second-set tie-break. I even needed a few match points myself to finish this one off."<o:p></o:p>
Canada's Felix Auger-Aliassime notched up a Tour-leading 15th win of the year, seeing off former US Open champion Marin Cilic 6-4, 3-6, 6-2 to reach his fourth semi-final of 2025.<o:p></o:p>
"It's been a great start," said 21st-ranked Auger-Aliassime who has already claimed titles at Adelaide and Montpellier this year.<o:p></o:p>
Auger-Aliassime will face French qualifier Quentin Halys who came back from a set and break down to defeat Italian lucky loser Luca Nardi 2-6, 6-3, 7-6 (7/5).<o:p></o:p>
Halys knocked out ninth-ranked former champion Andrey Rublev in the first round.
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&nbsp;

Sports, Tennis: Medvedev, the 2023 champion in Dubai, was handed a code violation for unsportsmanlike behaviour after seeing match points slip away in the second set.

Former world number one Daniil Medvedev crashed out of the Dubai Championships on Thursday, squandering four match points before losing a bad-tempered quarter-final to Tallon Griekspoor of the Netherlands. The 47th-ranked Dutchman came through 2-6, 7-6 (9/7), 7-5 as the world number six imploded. Medvedev, the 2023 champion in Dubai, was handed a code violation for unsportsmanlike behaviour after seeing match points slip away in the second set. Also read | Jannik Sinner dropped from Laureus awards list after doping ban As his frustration boiled over, he accused umpire Adel Nour of applying "double standards" with Russian players. Nour hit back, telling Medvedev that he treats all players in the same way, regardless of nationality before brushing away the top seed's complaints. Griekspoor kept his cool in the deciding set, taking victory on a fourth match point of his own. Medvedev refused to shake hands with Nour at the end of the tie. The 28-year-old Griekspoor, who saved three match points to see off Roman Safiullin in the first round and then overcame defending champion Ugo Humbert, will face Stefanos Tsitsipas for a place in the final. Fourth seed Tsitsipas battled to a 7-6 (7/5), 1-6, 6-4 win over Italy's Matteo Berrettini to reach his first semi-final since July last year. "I'm super happy with this win," said Griekspoor. "Daniil is an unbelievable player, an unbelievable competitor. He's been at the top of the rankings for so many years, so I'm very pleased with this win. "I was a little bit lucky on the match points down, and in the second-set tie-break. I even needed a few match points myself to finish this one off." Canada's Felix Auger-Aliassime notched up a Tour-leading 15th win of the year, seeing off former US Open champion Marin Cilic 6-4, 3-6, 6-2 to reach his fourth semi-final of 2025. "It's been a great start," said 21st-ranked Auger-Aliassime who has already claimed titles at Adelaide and Montpellier this year. Auger-Aliassime will face French qualifier Quentin Halys who came back from a set and break down to defeat Italian lucky loser Luca Nardi 2-6, 6-3, 7-6 (7/5). Halys knocked out ninth-ranked former champion Andrey Rublev in the first round. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Angry Medvedev refuses to shake hands with Griekspoor after Dubai Championships exit

Emma Raducanu's alleged stalker has been given a restraining order and was briefly detained in Dubai. The 2021 US Open champion has dropped charges after the man signed a form promising to distance himself from the 22-year-old.

Emma Raducanu's 'stalker' given restraining order in Dubai

World number five Jessica Pegula believes the handling of high-profile doping cases involving Jannick Sinner and Iga Swiatek has shown that the "process is completely broken". And top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka said she cannot trust the tennis anti-doping system and has become "too scared" of it.<o:p></o:p>
Sinner&rsquo;s long doping saga came to an end on Saturday (Feb 15) after he agreed to a three-month ban from tennis, with the world number one admitting "partial responsibility" for team mistakes that had led to him twice testing positive for traces of clostebol in March last year.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-number-one-jannik-sinner-accepts-three-month-suspension-over-doping-charges-8723883" rel="dofollow">Tennis: Jannik Sinner accepts three-month suspension over doping charges</a>
Sinner was facing a potential ban of two years after the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) against his initial exoneration by the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA), announced in August.<o:p></o:p>
In a surprise move, WADA withdrew its appeal and came to an agreement with Sinner to accept a three-month ban.<o:p></o:p>
In a statement, WADA said "Sinner did not intend to cheat" but would serve his suspension as he is responsible for the actions of his entourage.<o:p></o:p>
Swiatek accepted a one-month ban after testing positive for the banned heart drug trimetazidine (TMZ) late last year. The 23-year-old Pole had pulled out of the WTA's Asian swing in September-October citing "personal matters".<o:p></o:p>
Pegula, last year&rsquo;s US Open finalist and a member of the WTA Players' Council, said the inconsistencies in the way cases are being processed and judged is creating an unfair environment for all tennis players.<o:p></o:p>
"I think my reaction is that, whether you think he did or you don't, or whatever side you're on, the process just seems to be completely not a process," the American told reporters in Dubai on Sunday. "It seems to just be whatever decisions and factors they take into consideration, and they just make up their own ruling. <o:p></o:p>
"I don't really understand how that's fair for players when there's just so much inconsistency and you have no idea."<o:p></o:p>
Pegula added that any emails the players have been receiving regarding anti-doping cases contain explanations that are too easy to come up with, and are just ways for anti-doping organisations to justify their inconsistent rulings and processes.<o:p></o:p>
"If you're clean or not, the process is completely broken," she stated. "I think it needs to be seriously looked at and considered."<o:p></o:p>
"I feel like they have so much power to ruin someone's career, as well. I think there needs to be something done about that because it just seems really unfair.<o:p></o:p>
&ldquo;I don't think any of the players trust the process at all right now. Zero. It's just a horrible look for the sport."<o:p></o:p>
<h2>'Too scared': Sabalenka<o:p></o:p></h2>
Sabalenka, meanwhile, refused to comment on the outcome of the Sinner case but said she had become too wary of falling foul of the sport&rsquo;s strict anti-doping rules.<o:p></o:p>
"You just start to be more careful. For example, before I wouldn't care about leaving my glass of water and go to the bathroom in a restaurant. Now, I&rsquo;m not going to drink from the same glass of water," said the Belarusian world number one.<o:p></o:p>
"You just become a bit more aware of stuff and this thing gets to your head that, like, if someone used a cream on you and you test positive, they&rsquo;re going to go for you and they&rsquo;re not going to believe you or anything.<o:p></o:p>
"You just become too scared of the system. I don&rsquo;t see how I can trust the system."<o:p></o:p>
American world number three Coco Gauff has not paid much attention to the details of the recent anti-doping cases and is instead sticking to her strategy of avoiding any supplements to minimise the risk of testing positive for any banned substance.<o:p></o:p>
"I trust that everyone is doing what they can to protect the sport. As a player, that's all I can hope for," said the former US Open champion.<o:p></o:p>
"I just hope it's more for the protection of the sport and not just out to, like, get players."
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports, Tennis: Sinner’s long doping saga came to an end on Saturday after he agreed to a three-month ban from tennis; he admitted "partial responsibility" for team mistakes.

World number five Jessica Pegula believes the handling of high-profile doping cases involving Jannick Sinner and Iga Swiatek has shown that the "process is completely broken". And top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka said she cannot trust the tennis anti-doping system and has become "too scared" of it. Sinner’s long doping saga came to an end on Saturday (Feb 15) after he agreed to a three-month ban from tennis, with the world number one admitting "partial responsibility" for team mistakes that had led to him twice testing positive for traces of clostebol in March last year. Also read | Tennis: Jannik Sinner accepts three-month suspension over doping charges Sinner was facing a potential ban of two years after the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) against his initial exoneration by the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA), announced in August. In a surprise move, WADA withdrew its appeal and came to an agreement with Sinner to accept a three-month ban. In a statement, WADA said "Sinner did not intend to cheat" but would serve his suspension as he is responsible for the actions of his entourage. Swiatek accepted a one-month ban after testing positive for the banned heart drug trimetazidine (TMZ) late last year. The 23-year-old Pole had pulled out of the WTA's Asian swing in September-October citing "personal matters". Pegula, last year’s US Open finalist and a member of the WTA Players' Council, said the inconsistencies in the way cases are being processed and judged is creating an unfair environment for all tennis players. "I think my reaction is that, whether you think he did or you don't, or whatever side you're on, the process just seems to be completely not a process," the American told reporters in Dubai on Sunday. "It seems to just be whatever decisions and factors they take into consideration, and they just make up their own ruling. "I don't really understand how that's fair for players when there's just so much inconsistency and you have no idea." Pegula added that any emails the players have been receiving regarding anti-doping cases contain explanations that are too easy to come up with, and are just ways for anti-doping organisations to justify their inconsistent rulings and processes. "If you're clean or not, the process is completely broken," she stated. "I think it needs to be seriously looked at and considered." "I feel like they have so much power to ruin someone's career, as well. I think there needs to be something done about that because it just seems really unfair. “I don't think any of the players trust the process at all right now. Zero. It's just a horrible look for the sport." 'Too scared': Sabalenka Sabalenka, meanwhile, refused to comment on the outcome of the Sinner case but said she had become too wary of falling foul of the sport’s strict anti-doping rules. "You just start to be more careful. For example, before I wouldn't care about leaving my glass of water and go to the bathroom in a restaurant. Now, I’m not going to drink from the same glass of water," said the Belarusian world number one. "You just become a bit more aware of stuff and this thing gets to your head that, like, if someone used a cream on you and you test positive, they’re going to go for you and they’re not going to believe you or anything. "You just become too scared of the system. I don’t see how I can trust the system." American world number three Coco Gauff has not paid much attention to the details of the recent anti-doping cases and is instead sticking to her strategy of avoiding any supplements to minimise the risk of testing positive for any banned substance. "I trust that everyone is doing what they can to protect the sport. As a player, that's all I can hope for," said the former US Open champion. "I just hope it's more for the protection of the sport and not just out to, like, get players." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sinner’s doping case ban scares Sabalenka; Pegula calls process 'completely broken’

World number one men&rsquo;s tennis player <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jannik-sinner" rel="dofollow">Jannik Sinner</a> has accepted a three-month ban after reaching a settlement with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) for failing two drug tests last year. Sinner, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/sinner-vs-zverev-australian-open-2025-final-live-score-updates-liveblog-8655167" rel="dofollow">who defended his Australian Open title</a> last month, will remain suspended from February 9 until May 4. The 23-year-old Italian, however, will be eligible to play the next Grand Slam &ndash; the French Open (starting May 19).
Per the latest reports, WADA, on Saturday (Feb 15), released a statement accepting Sinner&rsquo;s explanation that he accidentally came in contact with the banned substance by his physiotherapist. The Tennis body also accepts that Sinner &lsquo;did not intend to cheat&rsquo; and that the drug &lsquo;did not provide any performance-enhancing benefit'; all of this happened &lsquo;without his knowledge as the result of the negligence of members of his entourage.&rsquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/qatar-open-ostapenko-keeps-it-perfect-against-swiatek-to-reach-final-8722602" rel="dofollow">Qatar Open: Ostapenko keeps it perfect against Swiatek to reach final</a>
The statement read, "However, under the code and by virtue of CAS precedent, an athlete bears responsibility for the entourage's negligence. Based on the unique set of facts of this case, a three-month suspension is deemed to be an appropriate outcome."
Responding to it, Sinner&rsquo;s lawyers said, as quoted by the BBC, "This case had been hanging over me for nearly a year, and the process still had a long time to run with a decision maybe only at the end of the year.
"I have always accepted that I am responsible for my team and realise Wada's strict rules are an important protection for the sport I love. On that basis, I have accepted Wada's offer to resolve these proceedings on the basis of a three-month sanction," Sinner said.
<h2>What led to Sinner's ban?</h2>
Sinner was cleared of any wrongdoings earlier by an independent panel after testing positive for a banned substance (used in March 2024). The report states that Sinner was accidentally contaminated by his physiotherapist, who treated a cut on his hand with a spray, which was later found to contain the banned substance.
Besides, the International Tennis Integrity Agency said in August that they found &lsquo;no fault or negligence&rsquo; in Sinner&rsquo;s case for testing positive for low levels of a metabolite of clostebol (a steroid) that can be used in building muscle mass.&nbsp;That, however, led to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-wada-appeals-court-of-arbitration-for-sport-in-jannik-sinner-doping-case-seeks-ban-of-up-to-two-years-762790" rel="dofollow">WADA appealing with CAS</a> (last September), stating that when that independent panel found Sinner of &lsquo;no fault or negligence&rsquo;, it was incorrect under the applicable rules, seeking a ban of between one and two years, with a hearing scheduled on April (16-17).&nbsp;
Following this, Sinner accepted the ban, and the next tournament he can play is the Italian Open, starting May 7.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Tennis: Sinner will remain suspended from February 9 until May 4, though he will be eligible to play the French Open (starting May 19).

World number one men’s tennis player Jannik Sinner has accepted a three-month ban after reaching a settlement with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) for failing two drug tests last year. Sinner, who defended his Australian Open title last month, will remain suspended from February 9 until May 4. The 23-year-old Italian, however, will be eligible to play the next Grand Slam – the French Open (starting May 19). Per the latest reports, WADA, on Saturday (Feb 15), released a statement accepting Sinner’s explanation that he accidentally came in contact with the banned substance by his physiotherapist. The Tennis body also accepts that Sinner ‘did not intend to cheat’ and that the drug ‘did not provide any performance-enhancing benefit'; all of this happened ‘without his knowledge as the result of the negligence of members of his entourage.’ Also read | Qatar Open: Ostapenko keeps it perfect against Swiatek to reach final The statement read, "However, under the code and by virtue of CAS precedent, an athlete bears responsibility for the entourage's negligence. Based on the unique set of facts of this case, a three-month suspension is deemed to be an appropriate outcome." Responding to it, Sinner’s lawyers said, as quoted by the BBC, "This case had been hanging over me for nearly a year, and the process still had a long time to run with a decision maybe only at the end of the year. "I have always accepted that I am responsible for my team and realise Wada's strict rules are an important protection for the sport I love. On that basis, I have accepted Wada's offer to resolve these proceedings on the basis of a three-month sanction," Sinner said. What led to Sinner's ban? Sinner was cleared of any wrongdoings earlier by an independent panel after testing positive for a banned substance (used in March 2024). The report states that Sinner was accidentally contaminated by his physiotherapist, who treated a cut on his hand with a spray, which was later found to contain the banned substance. Besides, the International Tennis Integrity Agency said in August that they found ‘no fault or negligence’ in Sinner’s case for testing positive for low levels of a metabolite of clostebol (a steroid) that can be used in building muscle mass. That, however, led to WADA appealing with CAS (last September), stating that when that independent panel found Sinner of ‘no fault or negligence’, it was incorrect under the applicable rules, seeking a ban of between one and two years, with a hearing scheduled on April (16-17). Following this, Sinner accepted the ban, and the next tournament he can play is the Italian Open, starting May 7. (With inputs from agencies)

Tennis: Jannik Sinner accepts three-month suspension over doping charges

Carlos Alcaraz scrapped his way into the final of the Rotterdam Open on Saturday with a hard-fought and entertaining three-set win over Hubert Hurkacz. <o:p></o:p>Superior court coverage and retrieving from the Spanish world number three overcame stubborn resistance from the Pole for a 6-4, 6-7 (5/7), 6-3 win to set up a clash with Australia's Alex de Minaur in Sunday's final.<o:p></o:p>
"It was a very tight first set. I think he had chances to make it 6-0 so I just tried to fight every ball, every point," said Alcaraz. "I just tried to stay in there, keep fighting all the time and it paid off," he added.<o:p></o:p>
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Alcaraz got off to a slow start, broken to love in his very first service game and allowing Hurkacz to race into a 3-0 lead in the first set. <o:p></o:p>He faced another break point in his next service game but saved it with a glorious crosscourt forehand and managed to hold onto serve.<o:p></o:p>
Alcaraz survived another three break points and then fought his way back into the match with a break of his own, seizing the game with a forehand smash after a lengthy rally.<o:p></o:p>
The momentum shifted in the Spaniard's favour and a double-fault from Hurkacz gave the top seed the opportunity to serve out the set. <o:p></o:p>Again Hurkacz had the opportunity to break, but Alcaraz held firm and sealed the set with a forehand drive volley winner.<o:p></o:p>
After the topsy-turvy first set, the second proceeded more conventionally, on serve until the tie-break.<o:p></o:p>
The tie-break was also nip and tuck, both players squandering chances to seize the advantage. <o:p></o:p>
But a double-fault from Alcaraz at 5-4 up gave Hurkacz an opportunity, and the Pole needed no second invitation, taking the set as the Spaniard netted a simple backhand groundstroke.<o:p></o:p>
The decisive set started the same way as the first, with an early break of serve -- this time to Alcaraz who brought the crowd to its feet.<o:p></o:p>
That eventually proved enough to break the Polish resistance, as Hurkacz failed to make inroads into the Alcaraz serve.<o:p></o:p>
Serving for the set at 5-3, Alcaraz booked his place in his 22nd ATP tour final with a trademark forehand winner up the line.<o:p></o:p>
"I want to be the first Spanish player to be able to win this tournament. I'm going to go for it. I'm really happy to be able to play a final in Rotterdam," said the 21-year-old.<o:p></o:p>
<h2>'Happy with level'<o:p></o:p></h2>
In Saturday's first semi-final, De Minaur brought to an end the extraordinary giant-killing run of Italian qualifier Mattia Bellucci with a straight-sets win.<o:p></o:p>
De Minaur was too consistent for the error-prone Bellucci, who was unable to repeat his earlier heroics against Daniil Medvedev and Stefanos Tsitsipas, going down 6-1, 6-2.<o:p></o:p>
"I'm very happy with the level today," said De Minaur. "He's been playing with a lot of confidence this whole week, so I knew it was going to be a very tough battle," added the third-seeded Australian.<o:p></o:p>
Runner-up last year to world number one Jannik Sinner, De Minaur has enjoyed comfortable passage to the final, winning all his matches in straight sets.<o:p></o:p>
"The Dutch crowd always treats me very well, and I love coming back here. So hopefully I can get a title this time," he said.<o:p></o:p>
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports, Tennis: Runner-up last year to world number one Jannik Sinner, De Minaur has enjoyed comfortable passage to the final, winning all his matches in straight sets.

Carlos Alcaraz scrapped his way into the final of the Rotterdam Open on Saturday with a hard-fought and entertaining three-set win over Hubert Hurkacz. Superior court coverage and retrieving from the Spanish world number three overcame stubborn resistance from the Pole for a 6-4, 6-7 (5/7), 6-3 win to set up a clash with Australia's Alex de Minaur in Sunday's final. "It was a very tight first set. I think he had chances to make it 6-0 so I just tried to fight every ball, every point," said Alcaraz. "I just tried to stay in there, keep fighting all the time and it paid off," he added. Also read | Mbappe helps Real Madrid play 1-1 draw against Atletico in tense Liga derby Alcaraz got off to a slow start, broken to love in his very first service game and allowing Hurkacz to race into a 3-0 lead in the first set. He faced another break point in his next service game but saved it with a glorious crosscourt forehand and managed to hold onto serve. Alcaraz survived another three break points and then fought his way back into the match with a break of his own, seizing the game with a forehand smash after a lengthy rally. The momentum shifted in the Spaniard's favour and a double-fault from Hurkacz gave the top seed the opportunity to serve out the set. Again Hurkacz had the opportunity to break, but Alcaraz held firm and sealed the set with a forehand drive volley winner. After the topsy-turvy first set, the second proceeded more conventionally, on serve until the tie-break. The tie-break was also nip and tuck, both players squandering chances to seize the advantage. But a double-fault from Alcaraz at 5-4 up gave Hurkacz an opportunity, and the Pole needed no second invitation, taking the set as the Spaniard netted a simple backhand groundstroke. The decisive set started the same way as the first, with an early break of serve -- this time to Alcaraz who brought the crowd to its feet. That eventually proved enough to break the Polish resistance, as Hurkacz failed to make inroads into the Alcaraz serve. Serving for the set at 5-3, Alcaraz booked his place in his 22nd ATP tour final with a trademark forehand winner up the line. "I want to be the first Spanish player to be able to win this tournament. I'm going to go for it. I'm really happy to be able to play a final in Rotterdam," said the 21-year-old. 'Happy with level' In Saturday's first semi-final, De Minaur brought to an end the extraordinary giant-killing run of Italian qualifier Mattia Bellucci with a straight-sets win. De Minaur was too consistent for the error-prone Bellucci, who was unable to repeat his earlier heroics against Daniil Medvedev and Stefanos Tsitsipas, going down 6-1, 6-2. "I'm very happy with the level today," said De Minaur. "He's been playing with a lot of confidence this whole week, so I knew it was going to be a very tough battle," added the third-seeded Australian. Runner-up last year to world number one Jannik Sinner, De Minaur has enjoyed comfortable passage to the final, winning all his matches in straight sets. "The Dutch crowd always treats me very well, and I love coming back here. So hopefully I can get a title this time," he said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Alcaraz sets up Rotterdam Open final date with Australia’s de Minaur

The Australian Open 2025 has overcome broadcasting rights issues by streaming animated versions of matches on YouTube. This innovative approach brings a fun, video game-style twist to live tennis action. Discover how this unique method is changing the way fans experience the sport!

How the Australian Open beat the rights issue with anime

Daniil Medvedev faces a hefty fine after mangling his racquet and a net camera in an epic temper tantrum before battling through a five-set roller coaster to start his Australian Open on Tuesday. The feisty Russian, a three-time finalist in Melbourne, lost his cool in the third set before rallying to beat 418th-ranked Kasidit Samrej 6-2, 4-6, 3-6, 6-1, 6-2 on Rod Laver Arena.<o:p></o:p>
Fifth seed Medvedev was 3-5 behind and on the brink of going two sets to one down against the Thai player when he exploded, slamming his racquet into the net camera repeatedly until they both became a broken mess.<o:p></o:p>
<h2>WATCH -</h2>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5wc9yjs-q6fbqq1m-7yyq8v3y">
UPSET ALERT: Daniil Medvedev goes down 2 sets to 1 to the 418th ranked WC Kasidit Samrej and takes out the net camera in the process. <a href="https://t.co/RwvA9yYQp0">pic.twitter.com/RwvA9yYQp0</a>
&mdash; asud (@asud683385) <a href="https://twitter.com/asud683385/status/1879052220274274631?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2025</a></blockquote>
Ball kids had to sweep up the debris when he lost the game and set, while the match was postponed briefly as officials ran repairs on the net.<o:p></o:p>
Medvedev is facing a big penalty.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-2025-naomi-osaka-stays-focused-amid-la-wildfire-scare-8619795" rel="dofollow">Australian Open 2025: Naomi Osaka stays focused amid LA wildfire scare</a>
"Honestly, I hope not too big. The fine is usually for breaking the racquet, and the camera is going to cost some, but I don't think GoPro is that expensive," he said. &nbsp;"When I did it, I didn't want to smash the racquet in pieces. When I saw the racquet, I was, like, okay, time to take a new one I guess."<o:p></o:p>
Medvedev was playing his first match since the ATP Finals in November after arriving in Australia late to be at home for the birth of his second child.<o:p></o:p>
He pledged before the tournament to be a "disruptor" against the big names this season, but his stuttering start against a player with no pedigree showed he has his work cut out.<o:p></o:p>
"In general, it was kind of a top level from him, serving good, one break each set, just what you need to do to win matches," Medvedev, who lost last year's final to Jannik Sinner, said. "Two sets to one down is not an easy feeling. I was, like: I don't want to be on the flight tomorrow.<o:p></o:p>
"I'm happy that I managed to stay tough. I think, in my opinion, I didn't play a bad level, I played quite well and will for sure try to play better throughout the tournament."<o:p></o:p>
The former world number one broke his opponent's opening service game and was never troubled in the first set, racing through it in 30 minutes.<o:p></o:p>
But the Thai player, who qualified for his Grand Slam debut by winning the Asia-Pacific wildcard playoff event, refused to go away.<o:p></o:p>
He stunned the Russian by breaking him at 5-4 to take the second and was well on top in the third before the Medvedev meltdown.<o:p></o:p>
But the 28-year-old is a veteran of five-setters in Melbourne, contesting four and winning three last year, and he regrouped, using his experience to reassert control as Samrej began flagging.<o:p></o:p>
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience

Sports, Tennis: Ball kids had to sweep up the debris when Medvedev lost the game and set, while the match was postponed briefly as officials ran repairs on the net.

Daniil Medvedev faces a hefty fine after mangling his racquet and a net camera in an epic temper tantrum before battling through a five-set roller coaster to start his Australian Open on Tuesday. The feisty Russian, a three-time finalist in Melbourne, lost his cool in the third set before rallying to beat 418th-ranked Kasidit Samrej 6-2, 4-6, 3-6, 6-1, 6-2 on Rod Laver Arena. Fifth seed Medvedev was 3-5 behind and on the brink of going two sets to one down against the Thai player when he exploded, slamming his racquet into the net camera repeatedly until they both became a broken mess. WATCH - UPSET ALERT: Daniil Medvedev goes down 2 sets to 1 to the 418th ranked WC Kasidit Samrej and takes out the net camera in the process. pic.twitter.com/RwvA9yYQp0 — asud (@asud683385) January 14, 2025 Ball kids had to sweep up the debris when he lost the game and set, while the match was postponed briefly as officials ran repairs on the net. Medvedev is facing a big penalty. Also read | Australian Open 2025: Naomi Osaka stays focused amid LA wildfire scare "Honestly, I hope not too big. The fine is usually for breaking the racquet, and the camera is going to cost some, but I don't think GoPro is that expensive," he said. "When I did it, I didn't want to smash the racquet in pieces. When I saw the racquet, I was, like, okay, time to take a new one I guess." Medvedev was playing his first match since the ATP Finals in November after arriving in Australia late to be at home for the birth of his second child. He pledged before the tournament to be a "disruptor" against the big names this season, but his stuttering start against a player with no pedigree showed he has his work cut out. "In general, it was kind of a top level from him, serving good, one break each set, just what you need to do to win matches," Medvedev, who lost last year's final to Jannik Sinner, said. "Two sets to one down is not an easy feeling. I was, like: I don't want to be on the flight tomorrow. "I'm happy that I managed to stay tough. I think, in my opinion, I didn't play a bad level, I played quite well and will for sure try to play better throughout the tournament." The former world number one broke his opponent's opening service game and was never troubled in the first set, racing through it in 30 minutes. But the Thai player, who qualified for his Grand Slam debut by winning the Asia-Pacific wildcard playoff event, refused to go away. He stunned the Russian by breaking him at 5-4 to take the second and was well on top in the third before the Medvedev meltdown. But the 28-year-old is a veteran of five-setters in Melbourne, contesting four and winning three last year, and he regrouped, using his experience to reassert control as Samrej began flagging. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience

Medvedev faces fine for smashing racquet, net camera in AO meltdown

Serbian tennis star <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/novak-djokovic" rel="dofollow">Novak Djokovic</a> started the quest for the record 25th grand slam with a hard-fought win against the USA's Nishesh Basavareddy in Australia Open. Djokovic, playing first match with his 37-year-old coach and former rival Andy Murray, won 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 in first round on Monday (Jan 13).
<h2>Djokovic praises coach Murray</h2>
Novak Djokovic's announcement of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/andy-murray" rel="dofollow">Andy Murray</a> as the coach created a lot of buzz in the tennis world. The two 37-year-olds have been rivals since age 12 before Murray called time on his career at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/paris-olympics" rel="dofollow">Paris Olympics 2024</a>. This was the duo's first official match at player-coach.
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Djokovic was full of praise of Murray after the win and said: "A few times I did approach Andy, asked him something about whatever it was, whatever shot. He was giving me his feedback, his guidance and opinion."
"It's important. I enjoy talking to Andy. I mean, he knows tennis as well as anybody out there.
"I think he was doing great today," he added. "He was standing up several times, trying to encourage me and support me. I enjoyed it."&nbsp;
<h2>Basavareddy gets acknowledgement from Djokovic</h2>
The Serb was full of praise of his 19-year-old opponent Nishesh Basavareddy as well who is making his grand slam debut.
"I was very impressed by him. I think the whole stadium was really," Djokovic said after the match.
"Huge credit to him for stepping out in his debut in a Grand Slam, first time on a big court, playing the way he did play. So well done. &nbsp;I'm sure if he keeps going this way, he's very young, we are going to see quite a bit of him in the future," he added.
Indian-origin Basavareddy quit Stanford University to turn pro in December 2024. He had won the boys' double US Open 2022 with Ozan Baris at the junior level.

Novak Djokovic, playing first match with his 37-year-old coach and former rival Andy Murray, won 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 in first round on Monday (Jan 13). Sports

Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic started the quest for the record 25th grand slam with a hard-fought win against the USA's Nishesh Basavareddy in Australia Open. Djokovic, playing first match with his 37-year-old coach and former rival Andy Murray, won 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 in first round on Monday (Jan 13). Djokovic praises coach Murray Novak Djokovic's announcement of Andy Murray as the coach created a lot of buzz in the tennis world. The two 37-year-olds have been rivals since age 12 before Murray called time on his career at the Paris Olympics 2024. This was the duo's first official match at player-coach. Also Read: Khabib Nurmagomedov Airplane Row: Russian fighter speaks on being removed from flight in USA Djokovic was full of praise of Murray after the win and said: "A few times I did approach Andy, asked him something about whatever it was, whatever shot. He was giving me his feedback, his guidance and opinion." "It's important. I enjoy talking to Andy. I mean, he knows tennis as well as anybody out there. "I think he was doing great today," he added. "He was standing up several times, trying to encourage me and support me. I enjoyed it." Basavareddy gets acknowledgement from Djokovic The Serb was full of praise of his 19-year-old opponent Nishesh Basavareddy as well who is making his grand slam debut. "I was very impressed by him. I think the whole stadium was really," Djokovic said after the match. "Huge credit to him for stepping out in his debut in a Grand Slam, first time on a big court, playing the way he did play. So well done. I'm sure if he keeps going this way, he's very young, we are going to see quite a bit of him in the future," he added. Indian-origin Basavareddy quit Stanford University to turn pro in December 2024. He had won the boys' double US Open 2022 with Ozan Baris at the junior level.

Australian Open 2025: 'I enjoyed it,' says Novak Djokovic on first win with coach Andy Murray

Coco Gauff fired an Australian Open warning shot on Monday as she swept aside former champion and fellow American Sofia Kenin in straight sets on Rod Laver Arena. The world number three, who is unbeaten this year after leading the US to win the United Cup, eased past the 2020 Melbourne Park winner 6-3, 6-3 in 80 minutes.<o:p></o:p>
"I knew it was going to be difficult, but you know, I'm happy with how I played," said Gauff, the 2023 US Open champion who admitted to being troubled when serving by the fierce Melbourne sunshine. "I maybe could have had a better second serve, but on that side, I was struggling to see the ball, so I was just happy I was able to manage through that today."<o:p></o:p>
The gutsy Kenin, ranked 74th, did not go down without a fight but could only convert one of her six break-point opportunities and had no answer to Gauff's 28 winners.<o:p></o:p>
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Gauff will face 173rd ranked Briton Jodie Burrage in round two.<o:p></o:p>
The American has been on a scintillating run of form that has made her a major threat to double defending champion Aryna Sabalenka at Melbourne Park.<o:p></o:p>
The pair are drawn to meet in the semi-finals which would be a repeat of their last-four encounter 12 months ago, when the Belarusian won in straight sets.<o:p></o:p>
The 20-year-old Gauff finished 2024 with a flourish by winning the China Open and the season-ending WTA Tour Finals.<o:p></o:p>
She took that form to Australia, winning all her singles matches at the United Cup including beating world number two Iga Swiatek in straight sets.<o:p></o:p>
Gauff changed coaches in the autumn after her US Open defence fell flat, parting with Brad Gilbert and bringing in the little-known Matt Daly.<o:p></o:p>
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports, Tennis: The American has been on a scintillating run of form that has made her a major threat to double defending champion Aryna Sabalenka at Melbourne Park.

Coco Gauff fired an Australian Open warning shot on Monday as she swept aside former champion and fellow American Sofia Kenin in straight sets on Rod Laver Arena. The world number three, who is unbeaten this year after leading the US to win the United Cup, eased past the 2020 Melbourne Park winner 6-3, 6-3 in 80 minutes. "I knew it was going to be difficult, but you know, I'm happy with how I played," said Gauff, the 2023 US Open champion who admitted to being troubled when serving by the fierce Melbourne sunshine. "I maybe could have had a better second serve, but on that side, I was struggling to see the ball, so I was just happy I was able to manage through that today." The gutsy Kenin, ranked 74th, did not go down without a fight but could only convert one of her six break-point opportunities and had no answer to Gauff's 28 winners. Also read | Barcelona romp past Real Madrid 5-2 to win Spanish Super Cup in Jeddah Gauff will face 173rd ranked Briton Jodie Burrage in round two. The American has been on a scintillating run of form that has made her a major threat to double defending champion Aryna Sabalenka at Melbourne Park. The pair are drawn to meet in the semi-finals which would be a repeat of their last-four encounter 12 months ago, when the Belarusian won in straight sets. The 20-year-old Gauff finished 2024 with a flourish by winning the China Open and the season-ending WTA Tour Finals. She took that form to Australia, winning all her singles matches at the United Cup including beating world number two Iga Swiatek in straight sets. Gauff changed coaches in the autumn after her US Open defence fell flat, parting with Brad Gilbert and bringing in the little-known Matt Daly. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Gauff beats Kenin in first round to fire Australian Open 2025 warning

Auckland, New Zealand:&nbsp;US top seed Ben Shelton's preparation for the Australian Open was dealt a blow Wednesday with an upset loss to Czech teen sensation Jakub Mensik at the Auckland Classic.&nbsp;Playing his first match in nearly two months, world number 21 Shelton was beaten 7-6 (7/2), 4-6, 7-5 in the second round by the powerful Mensik.
A clash of two of the world's premier young players ended after more than two and a half hours when Shelton's serve was broken for the first time, in the 12th game of the third set.&nbsp;The 22-year-old American, who received a bye through the first round, served strongly but couldn't match the consistency of his 19-year-old opponent's groundstrokes.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/theres-a-life-after-this-didier-deschamps-reflects-after-stepping-down-as-france-national-team-coach-8601780" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'There's a life after this': Didier Deschamps reflects after stepping down as France National team coach</a>
Left-hander Shelton will have little match play under his belt heading to the Grand Slam tournament in Melbourne, having not previously played since representing the US in the Davis Cup nearly two months ago.
World number 49 Mensik faces a quarter-final against the highest-ranked player remaining in Auckland, Portuguese seventh seed Nuno Borges.&nbsp;The tournament's top four seeds all tumbled out in the second round.
Second seed and defending champion Alejandro Tabilo of Chile was toppled in three sets by American qualifier Nishesh Basavareddy.&nbsp;Argentine third and fourth seeds Sebastian Baez and Francisco Cerundolo were both eliminated in straight set defeats.
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Tennis, Sports | Top seed Ben Shelton ousted by Czech Republic teen sensation Jakub Mensik in a three-setter clash at Auckland Classic latest news 

Auckland, New Zealand: US top seed Ben Shelton's preparation for the Australian Open was dealt a blow Wednesday with an upset loss to Czech teen sensation Jakub Mensik at the Auckland Classic. Playing his first match in nearly two months, world number 21 Shelton was beaten 7-6 (7/2), 4-6, 7-5 in the second round by the powerful Mensik. A clash of two of the world's premier young players ended after more than two and a half hours when Shelton's serve was broken for the first time, in the 12th game of the third set. The 22-year-old American, who received a bye through the first round, served strongly but couldn't match the consistency of his 19-year-old opponent's groundstrokes. Also read: 'There's a life after this': Didier Deschamps reflects after stepping down as France National team coach Left-hander Shelton will have little match play under his belt heading to the Grand Slam tournament in Melbourne, having not previously played since representing the US in the Davis Cup nearly two months ago. World number 49 Mensik faces a quarter-final against the highest-ranked player remaining in Auckland, Portuguese seventh seed Nuno Borges. The tournament's top four seeds all tumbled out in the second round. Second seed and defending champion Alejandro Tabilo of Chile was toppled in three sets by American qualifier Nishesh Basavareddy. Argentine third and fourth seeds Sebastian Baez and Francisco Cerundolo were both eliminated in straight set defeats. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Top seed Ben Shelton ousted by Czech teenager in Auckland

Adelaide,&nbsp;Australia: World number nine Daria Kasatkina swept into the Adelaide International second round on Monday but Paris Olympic silver medallist Donna Vekic crashed to her third straight defeat of the season. Russia's Kasatkina, the runner-up at the last two editions of the Australian Open warm-up event, broke Australia's Olivia Gadecki five times to advance 6-2, 6-3.
"I think Adelaide is the tournament I've played most in my career," said the 27-year-old who made six WTA finals last year and won two titles.
"It's the beginning of the season, I'm happy to be back. "My tactic today was to turn on my legs and win as many points as possible and play aggressively when I had the chance."
The match featured four service breaks in the first five games as third seed Kasatkina got re-acquainted with the Memorial Drive centre court.
She will next face last year's Australian Open and Wimbledon junior runner-up Emerson Jones, a wildcard entry who scored an impressive 6-4, 6-0 win over China's Wang Xinyu.
Croatia's Vekic, a Wimbledon semi-finalist last year, saw her Australian Open build-up go from bad to worse with a 6-2, 6-3 defeat to Kazakhstan's Yulia Putintseva.
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The world number 19 was also beaten in two group matches in Perth at the United Cup.
Victory moved Putintseva into a second-round clash against either American fourth seed Danielle Collins or Tunisian wildcard Ons Jabeur, a three-time Grand Slam finalist.
"Today I played great, I was focused all the way through," said Putintseva.&nbsp;"We've played so much&nbsp;and know each other's games well. There are no secrets on the court."
In other matches, 2021 US Open finalist Leylah Fernandez was eliminated by Russia's Ekaterina Alexandrova 6-4, 3-6, 6-2.
The first Grand Slam of the year begins in Melbourne on Sunday.
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Tennis, Sports | Daria Kasatkina rolls into Adelaide second round as Donna Vekic crashes out

Adelaide, Australia: World number nine Daria Kasatkina swept into the Adelaide International second round on Monday but Paris Olympic silver medallist Donna Vekic crashed to her third straight defeat of the season. Russia's Kasatkina, the runner-up at the last two editions of the Australian Open warm-up event, broke Australia's Olivia Gadecki five times to advance 6-2, 6-3. "I think Adelaide is the tournament I've played most in my career," said the 27-year-old who made six WTA finals last year and won two titles. "It's the beginning of the season, I'm happy to be back. "My tactic today was to turn on my legs and win as many points as possible and play aggressively when I had the chance." The match featured four service breaks in the first five games as third seed Kasatkina got re-acquainted with the Memorial Drive centre court. She will next face last year's Australian Open and Wimbledon junior runner-up Emerson Jones, a wildcard entry who scored an impressive 6-4, 6-0 win over China's Wang Xinyu. Croatia's Vekic, a Wimbledon semi-finalist last year, saw her Australian Open build-up go from bad to worse with a 6-2, 6-3 defeat to Kazakhstan's Yulia Putintseva. Also read: Detriot Lions take NFC top seed, Denver Broncos and Tampa Bay Buccaneers head into NFL playoffs The world number 19 was also beaten in two group matches in Perth at the United Cup. Victory moved Putintseva into a second-round clash against either American fourth seed Danielle Collins or Tunisian wildcard Ons Jabeur, a three-time Grand Slam finalist. "Today I played great, I was focused all the way through," said Putintseva. "We've played so much and know each other's games well. There are no secrets on the court." In other matches, 2021 US Open finalist Leylah Fernandez was eliminated by Russia's Ekaterina Alexandrova 6-4, 3-6, 6-2. The first Grand Slam of the year begins in Melbourne on Sunday. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Daria Kasatkina rolls into Adelaide second round as Donna Vekic crashes out

Former world number one Naomi Osaka reached her first semi-final since 2022 after fighting back at the Auckland Classic on Friday (Jan 3). The four-time Grand Slam champion beat unseeded American Hailey Baptiste 6-7 (2/7), 6-1, 6-2 in another confidence boost ahead of the Australian Open in Melbourne.<o:p></o:p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5g9qqnf-g3fuxqkh-kz7hg28x">
Osaka to the semis 🤩<a href="https://twitter.com/naomiosaka?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@naomiosaka</a> battles back to defeat Baptiste 6-7, 6-1, 6-2 and reaches the semifinals in Auckland.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ASBClassic25?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ASBClassic25</a> <a href="https://t.co/wqWZE5SMqL">pic.twitter.com/wqWZE5SMqL</a>
&mdash; wta (@WTA) <a href="https://twitter.com/WTA/status/1875018573363503530?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2025</a></blockquote>
Osaka said her hard work was starting to pay off after booking a place in the final four of a WTA event for the first time since the Miami Open in April 2022.<o:p></o:p>
The Japan star gave birth to daughter Shai in July the following year, midway through a 15-month break, before returning to the tour 12 months ago.<o:p></o:p>
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"I put a lot of work in throughout last year and even though the results didn't show it, I'm just continuing to try as hard as I can to see where it gets me," the 57th-ranked star said.
"The key focus again today was just to have a lot of belief and confidence in myself."<o:p></o:p>
As with her first two matches in Auckland, the 27-year-old lacked rhythm in the opening set.<o:p></o:p>
But she unearthed a powerful serving game over the next two sets, ending with nine aces to give her 21 for the tournament.<o:p></o:p>
World number 92 Baptiste sought treatment for an ankle injury during the second set.<o:p></o:p>
Osaka, a two-time Australian Open champion, admitted that helped her cause.<o:p></o:p>
"She's an amazing player, it sucks that she was injured but I think we played a really high-quality match," said Osaka, who is seeded seventh in Auckland.
"In a weird way, I'm glad to play a three-set match because I think that's the kind of experience that I need."<o:p></o:p>
Osaka's semi-final opponent will come from the winner of a quarter-final later on Friday between eighth seed Katie Volynets and unseeded American compatriot Alycia Parks.
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Naomi Osaka said her hard work was starting to pay off after booking a place in the final four of a WTA event for the first time since the Miami Open in April 2022.

Former world number one Naomi Osaka reached her first semi-final since 2022 after fighting back at the Auckland Classic on Friday (Jan 3). The four-time Grand Slam champion beat unseeded American Hailey Baptiste 6-7 (2/7), 6-1, 6-2 in another confidence boost ahead of the Australian Open in Melbourne. Osaka to the semis 🤩@naomiosaka battles back to defeat Baptiste 6-7, 6-1, 6-2 and reaches the semifinals in Auckland.#ASBClassic25 pic.twitter.com/wqWZE5SMqL — wta (@WTA) January 3, 2025 Osaka said her hard work was starting to pay off after booking a place in the final four of a WTA event for the first time since the Miami Open in April 2022. The Japan star gave birth to daughter Shai in July the following year, midway through a 15-month break, before returning to the tour 12 months ago. Also read | Brisbane International: Novak Djokovic, Aryna Sabalenka into quarters as rising stars impress "I put a lot of work in throughout last year and even though the results didn't show it, I'm just continuing to try as hard as I can to see where it gets me," the 57th-ranked star said. "The key focus again today was just to have a lot of belief and confidence in myself." As with her first two matches in Auckland, the 27-year-old lacked rhythm in the opening set. But she unearthed a powerful serving game over the next two sets, ending with nine aces to give her 21 for the tournament. World number 92 Baptiste sought treatment for an ankle injury during the second set. Osaka, a two-time Australian Open champion, admitted that helped her cause. "She's an amazing player, it sucks that she was injured but I think we played a really high-quality match," said Osaka, who is seeded seventh in Auckland. "In a weird way, I'm glad to play a three-set match because I think that's the kind of experience that I need." Osaka's semi-final opponent will come from the winner of a quarter-final later on Friday between eighth seed Katie Volynets and unseeded American compatriot Alycia Parks. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Tennis: Osaka reaches first semis since comeback at Auckland Open

Auckland,&nbsp;New Zealand: Former US Open champion Emma Raducanu pulled out of the Auckland Classic on Tuesday with a "back niggle" in a blow to her Australian Open preparations.&nbsp;Britain's Raducanu will now fly to Melbourne to begin rehabilitation ahead of the year's first major starting on January 12.
The 22-year-old has suffered a series of injuries since bursting onto the scene with her New York triumph in 2021.
"I've tried my best to be ready. I love Auckland and the fans here," the 56th-ranked Raducanu said.&nbsp;"But unfortunately I've picked up a back niggle and I won't be ready in time."
Raducanu is travelling with renowned fitness coach Yutaka Nakamura in an attempt to better withstand the rigours of professional tennis.
<h2>Raducanu's plethora of injury concerns</h2>
Raducanu missed a chunk of 2023 following wrist and ankle surgery, and was recently sidelined for two months by a foot injury.
Former Australian Open semi-finalist Elise Mertens also withdrew Tuesday hours before the second seed's first-round match in Auckland.
Top seed Madison Keys defied blustery conditions to win her first-round match in straight sets over Lucia Bronzetti.
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American world number 21 Keys was relieved to start her season with a solid 6-4, 6-4 outing against the Italian.
"I feel like we all come out, we're a little bit nervous, but it's obviously so much fun to be back out here," she said.
"Lucia is one of those players who's just going to make you keep on having to play shots. So it's great for the confidence this early in the season."
The 29-year-old will next play unseeded Romanian Jaqueline Cristian after her Ukrainian opponent Yuliia Starodubtseva retired during their second set.
Former Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin beat China's Wang Xiyu 7-6 (7/5), 6-1, the American setting up a second-round match against fifth-seeded Dane Clara Tauson.
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Tennis, Sports | Former US Open champion Emma Raducanu pulls out of Australian Open 2025 warm-up due to back injuryA

Auckland, New Zealand: Former US Open champion Emma Raducanu pulled out of the Auckland Classic on Tuesday with a "back niggle" in a blow to her Australian Open preparations. Britain's Raducanu will now fly to Melbourne to begin rehabilitation ahead of the year's first major starting on January 12. The 22-year-old has suffered a series of injuries since bursting onto the scene with her New York triumph in 2021. "I've tried my best to be ready. I love Auckland and the fans here," the 56th-ranked Raducanu said. "But unfortunately I've picked up a back niggle and I won't be ready in time." Raducanu is travelling with renowned fitness coach Yutaka Nakamura in an attempt to better withstand the rigours of professional tennis. Raducanu's plethora of injury concerns Raducanu missed a chunk of 2023 following wrist and ankle surgery, and was recently sidelined for two months by a foot injury. Former Australian Open semi-finalist Elise Mertens also withdrew Tuesday hours before the second seed's first-round match in Auckland. Top seed Madison Keys defied blustery conditions to win her first-round match in straight sets over Lucia Bronzetti. Also read: Former England coach Gareth Southgate knighted in New Year Honours American world number 21 Keys was relieved to start her season with a solid 6-4, 6-4 outing against the Italian. "I feel like we all come out, we're a little bit nervous, but it's obviously so much fun to be back out here," she said. "Lucia is one of those players who's just going to make you keep on having to play shots. So it's great for the confidence this early in the season." The 29-year-old will next play unseeded Romanian Jaqueline Cristian after her Ukrainian opponent Yuliia Starodubtseva retired during their second set. Former Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin beat China's Wang Xiyu 7-6 (7/5), 6-1, the American setting up a second-round match against fifth-seeded Dane Clara Tauson. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Former US Open champion Emma Raducanu pulls out of Australian Open warm-up with back injury

Iga Swiatek romped to an emphatic victory in her season-opening match at the United Cup Monday, but Stefanos Tsitsipas crashed as Kazakhstan upset Greece to make the knockout round of the mixed-team tournament.<o:p></o:p>
Five-time Grand Slam winner Swiatek was on court for the first time since news broke in late November that she served a one-month ban for a doping violation.<o:p></o:p>
But the Pole quickly shook off any nerves in Sydney with a 6-1, 6-0 thrashing of Norway's Malene Helgo.<o:p></o:p>
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"Pleased with everything, honestly. I'm happy for sure with the performance," said the world number two. "It's not always easy to play for your country, sometimes the pressure is a bit bigger.<o:p></o:p>
"I feel good, I feel happy, happy I can play tennis overall," she added. "I'm just going step by step and we'll see what's next."<o:p></o:p>
The 23-year-old had tested positive for the heart medication trimetazidine (TMZ) in an out-of-competition sample in August, when she was ranked number one.<o:p></o:p>
However, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) accepted that the violation was not intentional, and she escaped with a one-month sanction.<o:p></o:p>
While she was in electric form, Greek star Tsitsipas had a day to forget.<o:p></o:p>
He is coming off a mediocre 2024 in which his ranking dropped to its current 11 from a career-high three and was hoping for a confidence-boosting fresh start in Perth.<o:p></o:p>
But he was stunned 6-4, 7-6 (7/0) by 78th-ranked Alexander Shevchenko.<o:p></o:p>
<h2>Germany and China go through<o:p></o:p></h2>
Kazakh world number six and 2022 Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina then survived a late wobble before burying Greek hopes with a 6-4, 6-3 defeat of Maria Sakkari.<o:p></o:p>
"I'm really happy for the team," said Rybakina, now working with Novak Djokovic's former coach Goran Ivanisevic. "We all tried hard. <o:p></o:p>
"It was a tough match for me today, and I'm so happy to be in the quarter-finals."<o:p></o:p>
Rybakina took the first set and led 5-0 in the second, but the former world number three Sakkari won three games in a row to threaten a comeback.<o:p></o:p>
Rybakina came through on her third match point as Sakkari mishit an overhead.<o:p></o:p>
"At 5-0 you have nothing to lose, she played more aggressively and hit some good shots," said Rybakina.<o:p></o:p>
Shevchenko called his defeat of a sluggish Tsitsipas "one of the best" of his career.<o:p></o:p>
"He was not at his best today. But I played really well and found the moment to win that match," he said. "It will definitely go in my record as one of my best wins."<o:p></o:p>
Defending champions Germany, led by Alexander Zverev, defeated China 2-1 in the Perth evening session as both nations reached the quarterfinals.<o:p></o:p>
The Germans finished top in their group and will line up on Wednesday against Kazakhstan. China advanced as the best of the three runners-up in Perth.<o:p></o:p>
Second-ranked Zverev recovered from a bad start to beat Zhang Zhizhen 2-6, 6-0, 6-2 but unfancied Gao Xinyu stunned German Laura Siegemund 6-1, 3-6, 6-3 to even the tie.<o:p></o:p>
The German pair combined in mixed doubles to defeat Zhang Shuai and Zhang Zhizhen 6-2, 7-6 (7/3).<o:p></o:p>
Zverev had his problems in the opening rubber against an inconsistent Zhang, who swept the opening set but disappeared after that.<o:p></o:p>
"I didn't start off well. I was missing more shots from my backhand side, which is normally the most stable," said Zverev. "He was also playing extremely well, so aggressive. He was not letting me into the match or find my rhythm. <o:p></o:p>
"Then I found my rhythm, and I'm happy with my performance in the second and third sets."<o:p></o:p>
In Sydney, Katie Boulter led Britain to victory over Argentina with all three teams in the group, which also includes hosts Australia, still in contention for the knockout rounds&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
World number 24 Boulter downed 100th-ranked Nadia Podoroska 6-2, 6-3. <o:p></o:p>
Underdog Billy Harris looked on track to seal the tie for Britain when he went a set up against Tomas Martin Etcheverry.<o:p></o:p>
But the Argentine rallied for a gutsy 3-6, 6-3, 6-2 win to send the tie to a deciding mixed doubles.<o:p></o:p>
Etcheverry fronted up again with Maria Carle to take on Boulter and Charles Broom, with the British pair coming out on top 7-6 (7/4), 7-5.
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Sports: Five-time Grand Slam winner Swiatek was on court for the first time since news broke in late November that she served a one-month ban for a doping violation.

Iga Swiatek romped to an emphatic victory in her season-opening match at the United Cup Monday, but Stefanos Tsitsipas crashed as Kazakhstan upset Greece to make the knockout round of the mixed-team tournament. Five-time Grand Slam winner Swiatek was on court for the first time since news broke in late November that she served a one-month ban for a doping violation. But the Pole quickly shook off any nerves in Sydney with a 6-1, 6-0 thrashing of Norway's Malene Helgo. Also read | NBA fines Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards for profanity "Pleased with everything, honestly. I'm happy for sure with the performance," said the world number two. "It's not always easy to play for your country, sometimes the pressure is a bit bigger. "I feel good, I feel happy, happy I can play tennis overall," she added. "I'm just going step by step and we'll see what's next." The 23-year-old had tested positive for the heart medication trimetazidine (TMZ) in an out-of-competition sample in August, when she was ranked number one. However, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) accepted that the violation was not intentional, and she escaped with a one-month sanction. While she was in electric form, Greek star Tsitsipas had a day to forget. He is coming off a mediocre 2024 in which his ranking dropped to its current 11 from a career-high three and was hoping for a confidence-boosting fresh start in Perth. But he was stunned 6-4, 7-6 (7/0) by 78th-ranked Alexander Shevchenko. Germany and China go through Kazakh world number six and 2022 Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina then survived a late wobble before burying Greek hopes with a 6-4, 6-3 defeat of Maria Sakkari. "I'm really happy for the team," said Rybakina, now working with Novak Djokovic's former coach Goran Ivanisevic. "We all tried hard. "It was a tough match for me today, and I'm so happy to be in the quarter-finals." Rybakina took the first set and led 5-0 in the second, but the former world number three Sakkari won three games in a row to threaten a comeback. Rybakina came through on her third match point as Sakkari mishit an overhead. "At 5-0 you have nothing to lose, she played more aggressively and hit some good shots," said Rybakina. Shevchenko called his defeat of a sluggish Tsitsipas "one of the best" of his career. "He was not at his best today. But I played really well and found the moment to win that match," he said. "It will definitely go in my record as one of my best wins." Defending champions Germany, led by Alexander Zverev, defeated China 2-1 in the Perth evening session as both nations reached the quarterfinals. The Germans finished top in their group and will line up on Wednesday against Kazakhstan. China advanced as the best of the three runners-up in Perth. Second-ranked Zverev recovered from a bad start to beat Zhang Zhizhen 2-6, 6-0, 6-2 but unfancied Gao Xinyu stunned German Laura Siegemund 6-1, 3-6, 6-3 to even the tie. The German pair combined in mixed doubles to defeat Zhang Shuai and Zhang Zhizhen 6-2, 7-6 (7/3). Zverev had his problems in the opening rubber against an inconsistent Zhang, who swept the opening set but disappeared after that. "I didn't start off well. I was missing more shots from my backhand side, which is normally the most stable," said Zverev. "He was also playing extremely well, so aggressive. He was not letting me into the match or find my rhythm. "Then I found my rhythm, and I'm happy with my performance in the second and third sets." In Sydney, Katie Boulter led Britain to victory over Argentina with all three teams in the group, which also includes hosts Australia, still in contention for the knockout rounds World number 24 Boulter downed 100th-ranked Nadia Podoroska 6-2, 6-3. Underdog Billy Harris looked on track to seal the tie for Britain when he went a set up against Tomas Martin Etcheverry. But the Argentine rallied for a gutsy 3-6, 6-3, 6-2 win to send the tie to a deciding mixed doubles. Etcheverry fronted up again with Maria Carle to take on Boulter and Charles Broom, with the British pair coming out on top 7-6 (7/4), 7-5. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Tennis: Iga Swiatek romps as Stefanos Tsitsipas crashes at United Cup

Germany&nbsp;took a solid first step on Sunday in defence of their United Cup title with world number two Alexander Zverev and Laura Siegemund powering them past Brazil, who were knocked out of the mixed-team tournament.
Zverev assured the win by dominating Thiago Monteiro 6-4, 6-4 after Siegemund began with a 6-3, 1-6, 6-4 victory over Beatriz Haddad Maia, who is ranked 63 places above her at 17.
The result in Perth eliminated the South Americans from group play after a previous loss to China. Germany face the Chinese on Monday with the winner advancing to the quarter-finals.
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In Sydney, women's world number four Jasmine Paolini crushed Belinda Bencic 6-1, 6-1 in just 57 minutes to ensure Italy beat Switzerland.
Men's world number six Casper Ruud, meanwhile, survived a tough examination from Tomas Machac, but his efforts were in vain as Norway crashed to the Czech Republic.
Zverev broke Monteiro in the opening game of each set, preventing him from threatening in the 80-minute contest.
The one-two singles punch left Germany in an unfamiliar position at the tournament&nbsp;it won last year.
"This is the first time we've ever been up 2-0," Zverev said. "Last year, I played deciding (mixed doubles) matches every time.
"It's nice to have this (tie) in the bag. I'm very happy to be playing for Germany again."
Siegemund fought for more than two-and-a-half hours to subdue Haddad Maia, winning five first-set games in a row before stumbling to lose the second set.
The German came out ahead after three consecutive service breaks late in the final set for a 5-4 lead and secured her win on a first match point.
"It's good to pull your best game out of the pocket in the first match of the season," she said. "I tried to stay cool and take my advantages."
<h2>Tough start for Ruud</h2>
Paolini had a sensational 2024, finishing runner-up at Roland Garros and Wimbledon, and she carried that form into her first match of the new season.
Bencic, herself a one-time world number four, is on the comeback after having a baby and was completely outclassed.
"I played a really good match. Today everything worked really well," said Paolini.
"I was serving and returning well, and I think that was the key."
Her teammate Flavio Cobolli had earlier defeated Dominic Stricker 6-3, 7-6 (6/2) to give Italy a 1-0 lead.
Ruud, the highest-ranked Norwegian in history, was put through his paces over nearly three hours before downing Machac 7-6 (7/6), 5-7, 6-4.
His win levelled the tie 1-1 after Karolina Muchova got the Czechs off to a flying start with a 6-2, 6-2 romp over Malene Helgo.&nbsp;
Machac and Muchova teamed up in the deciding mixed doubles to beat Viktor Durasovic and Ulrikke Eikeri 6-4, 6-4 with Ruud opting out after needing treatment on his left quad during the singles.
"You kind of hope that it won't be that tough, but what a way to start the new season," said Ruud, who banked 2024 tournament wins at Geneva and Barcelona.
"If every match is going to be this tough, it's going to be a tough (season)."&nbsp;
Ruud broke 25th-ranked Machac early in the third set to assume control, but he will be concerned at facing nine break points through the match.&nbsp;
The Coco Gauff-led United States -- the 2023 winners -- take on Canada late in the final group match in Perth.&nbsp;
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports Tennis Alexander Zverev assured the win by dominating Thiago Monteiro 6-4, 6-4 after Siegemund began with a 6-3, 1-6, 6-4 victory over Beatriz Haddad Maia.

Germany took a solid first step on Sunday in defence of their United Cup title with world number two Alexander Zverev and Laura Siegemund powering them past Brazil, who were knocked out of the mixed-team tournament. Zverev assured the win by dominating Thiago Monteiro 6-4, 6-4 after Siegemund began with a 6-3, 1-6, 6-4 victory over Beatriz Haddad Maia, who is ranked 63 places above her at 17. The result in Perth eliminated the South Americans from group play after a previous loss to China. Germany face the Chinese on Monday with the winner advancing to the quarter-finals. Also Read: Premier League: Manchester City snap losing streak with Leicester win In Sydney, women's world number four Jasmine Paolini crushed Belinda Bencic 6-1, 6-1 in just 57 minutes to ensure Italy beat Switzerland. Men's world number six Casper Ruud, meanwhile, survived a tough examination from Tomas Machac, but his efforts were in vain as Norway crashed to the Czech Republic. Zverev broke Monteiro in the opening game of each set, preventing him from threatening in the 80-minute contest. The one-two singles punch left Germany in an unfamiliar position at the tournament it won last year. "This is the first time we've ever been up 2-0," Zverev said. "Last year, I played deciding (mixed doubles) matches every time. "It's nice to have this (tie) in the bag. I'm very happy to be playing for Germany again." Siegemund fought for more than two-and-a-half hours to subdue Haddad Maia, winning five first-set games in a row before stumbling to lose the second set. The German came out ahead after three consecutive service breaks late in the final set for a 5-4 lead and secured her win on a first match point. "It's good to pull your best game out of the pocket in the first match of the season," she said. "I tried to stay cool and take my advantages." Tough start for Ruud Paolini had a sensational 2024, finishing runner-up at Roland Garros and Wimbledon, and she carried that form into her first match of the new season. Bencic, herself a one-time world number four, is on the comeback after having a baby and was completely outclassed. "I played a really good match. Today everything worked really well," said Paolini. "I was serving and returning well, and I think that was the key." Her teammate Flavio Cobolli had earlier defeated Dominic Stricker 6-3, 7-6 (6/2) to give Italy a 1-0 lead. Ruud, the highest-ranked Norwegian in history, was put through his paces over nearly three hours before downing Machac 7-6 (7/6), 5-7, 6-4. His win levelled the tie 1-1 after Karolina Muchova got the Czechs off to a flying start with a 6-2, 6-2 romp over Malene Helgo. Machac and Muchova teamed up in the deciding mixed doubles to beat Viktor Durasovic and Ulrikke Eikeri 6-4, 6-4 with Ruud opting out after needing treatment on his left quad during the singles. "You kind of hope that it won't be that tough, but what a way to start the new season," said Ruud, who banked 2024 tournament wins at Geneva and Barcelona. "If every match is going to be this tough, it's going to be a tough (season)." Ruud broke 25th-ranked Machac early in the third set to assume control, but he will be concerned at facing nine break points through the match. The Coco Gauff-led United States -- the 2023 winners -- take on Canada late in the final group match in Perth. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Alexander Zverev helps Germany start United Cup defence with win

Novak Djokovic said Sunday he planned to keep playing for "years to come" -- with more tournaments on his schedule in 2025 -- as he looks to take down the new guard led by Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. 
The 37-year-old had a disappointing campaign last year by his standards, failing to win a Grand Slam and claiming just one title -- Olympic gold in Paris.<o:p></o:p>
He has slipped to number seven in the world and said he wanted to get his ranking back to "where it should be".<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-novak-djokovic-calls-for-more-transparency-around-doping-suspensions-8574694" rel="dofollow">Tennis: Djokovic calls for more transparency around doping suspensions</a> 
"I'm looking for a good start to the season, I'm looking for more consistency across all the tournaments," he said as he prepared to play at the Brisbane International this week. "I'm looking to play more tournaments this year than I played last season, so hopefully also my level is going to go up.<o:p></o:p>
"Hopefully, I will win a few more tournaments and my ranking will go up to where it should be."<o:p></o:p>
The 24-time Grand Slam champion is beginning a season for the first time without any of the other so-called "Big Four" on the other side of the net following the retirements this year of Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray. <o:p></o:p>
Roger Federer called it quits in 2022.<o:p></o:p>
As they faded, Sinner and Alcaraz stepped up to become the new Grand Slam kings.<o:p></o:p>
Djokovic, who is targeting an 11th Australian Open title next month and a record 25th Grand Slam crown, said he had no thoughts of retirement despite turning 38 in May.<o:p></o:p>
"The way I'm feeling today, I still think that I can go strong for years to come," he said. "But, how long I'm going to feel motivated to keep going is unpredictable."<o:p></o:p>
"I still love this sport and I still love competing."<o:p></o:p>
The Serb, the top seed, starts his campaign against Australian wildcard Rinky Hijikata in what will be his first official tournament since losing to Sinner in the final of the 2024 Shanghai Masters in October.<o:p></o:p>
Djokovic will also play doubles alongside Nick Kyrgios, who is making a competitive return after playing just one ATP Tour singles match in two years following knee, foot and wrist injuries.<o:p></o:p>
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The 37-year-old had a disappointing campaign last year by his standards, failing to win a Grand Slam and claiming just one title -- Olympic gold in Paris.

Novak Djokovic said Sunday he planned to keep playing for "years to come" -- with more tournaments on his schedule in 2025 -- as he looks to take down the new guard led by Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. The 37-year-old had a disappointing campaign last year by his standards, failing to win a Grand Slam and claiming just one title -- Olympic gold in Paris. He has slipped to number seven in the world and said he wanted to get his ranking back to "where it should be". Also read | Tennis: Djokovic calls for more transparency around doping suspensions "I'm looking for a good start to the season, I'm looking for more consistency across all the tournaments," he said as he prepared to play at the Brisbane International this week. "I'm looking to play more tournaments this year than I played last season, so hopefully also my level is going to go up. "Hopefully, I will win a few more tournaments and my ranking will go up to where it should be." The 24-time Grand Slam champion is beginning a season for the first time without any of the other so-called "Big Four" on the other side of the net following the retirements this year of Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray. Roger Federer called it quits in 2022. As they faded, Sinner and Alcaraz stepped up to become the new Grand Slam kings. Djokovic, who is targeting an 11th Australian Open title next month and a record 25th Grand Slam crown, said he had no thoughts of retirement despite turning 38 in May. "The way I'm feeling today, I still think that I can go strong for years to come," he said. "But, how long I'm going to feel motivated to keep going is unpredictable." "I still love this sport and I still love competing." The Serb, the top seed, starts his campaign against Australian wildcard Rinky Hijikata in what will be his first official tournament since losing to Sinner in the final of the 2024 Shanghai Masters in October. Djokovic will also play doubles alongside Nick Kyrgios, who is making a competitive return after playing just one ATP Tour singles match in two years following knee, foot and wrist injuries. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Novak Djokovic admits planning to keep playing for ‘years to come’

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