<p>Princess of Wales Kate Middleton took part in a friendly match against legendary tennis player Roger Federer at Wimbledon on Sunday. She paid a visit to the training location of the ball boys and girls for Wimbledon. Kate even managed to collect a point against the Swiss maestro during the doubles game. She played a passing shot to clinch the point. “I think it was on the line, amazing,” Federer was heard saying in a video shared by the Wimbledon organisers. The official Instagram handle of Wimbledon also posted multiple photos in which both Federer and Kate can be seen featuring in the doubles game. “The Wimbledon Ball Boys and Girls play a pivotal role in The Championships. We went to visit them on a day’s training with Roger Federer,” the caption read.</p>

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<h2><strong>Interaction with ball boys and girls</strong></h2>

<p>During their visit, Kate Middleton and Roger Federer also interacted with the ball boys and ball girls at the Wimbledon. A ball girl named Mollie can be seen in the video showing Kate how to stand on the sidelines of the court. She also taught the Princess of Wales how to pass the tennis ball to a player with a straight arm.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-lionel-messis-bombshell-revelation-about-fractured-relationship-with-psg-fans-read-608692">Football: Lionel Messi's BOMBSHELL revelation about 'fractured' relationship with PSG fans | READ</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Huge appreciation</strong></h2>

<p>Kate Middleton and Roger Federer also interacted with the coaches and trainers with the teenagers at Wimbledon’s facility. Wimbledon Tournament Director Jamie Baker also showed them how hard training the ball boys and ball girls go through. Kate, the royal patron of the All England Lawn Tennis Club, hailed the training of the teenagers and credited them for the successful organization of the tournament. “To see the training and the dedication and the amount of time that is put into the training and making sure this goes well on the day for the champions who are playing at Wimbledon. Yeah, it’s incredible to see it behind the scenes,” she said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nz-captain-kane-williamson-opens-up-on-knee-injury-chances-of-featuring-in-odi-world-cup-608750">NZ captain Kane Williamson opens up on knee injury, chances of featuring in ODI World Cup</a></strong></p>

<p>This year’s Wimbledon is set to start from July 3. Current world no.1 and defending champion Novak Djokovic will be aiming to touch Roger Federer’s record of winning his eighth Wimbledon title this time. Federer won his eighth and final Wimbledon title in 2017. The Swiss maestro retired from professional tennis in September last year.</p>


The official Instagram handle of Wimbledon posted a video in which both Roger Federer and Kate Middleton can be seen playing a game of tennis. Kate played a passing shot to clinch a point against the legendary tennis player.

Princess of Wales Kate Middleton took part in a friendly match against legendary tennis player Roger Federer at Wimbledon on Sunday. She paid a visit to the training location of the ball boys and girls for Wimbledon. Kate even managed to collect a point against the Swiss maestro during the doubles game. She played a passing shot to clinch the point. “I think it was on the line, amazing,” Federer was heard saying in a video shared by the Wimbledon organisers. The official Instagram handle of Wimbledon also posted multiple photos in which both Federer and Kate can be seen featuring in the doubles game. “The Wimbledon Ball Boys and Girls play a pivotal role in The Championships. We went to visit them on a day’s training with Roger Federer,” the caption read. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Wimbledon (@wimbledon) × × Interaction with ball boys and girls During their visit, Kate Middleton and Roger Federer also interacted with the ball boys and ball girls at the Wimbledon. A ball girl named Mollie can be seen in the video showing Kate how to stand on the sidelines of the court. She also taught the Princess of Wales how to pass the tennis ball to a player with a straight arm. Also read: Football: Lionel Messi's BOMBSHELL revelation about 'fractured' relationship with PSG fans | READ Huge appreciation Kate Middleton and Roger Federer also interacted with the coaches and trainers with the teenagers at Wimbledon’s facility. Wimbledon Tournament Director Jamie Baker also showed them how hard training the ball boys and ball girls go through. Kate, the royal patron of the All England Lawn Tennis Club, hailed the training of the teenagers and credited them for the successful organization of the tournament. “To see the training and the dedication and the amount of time that is put into the training and making sure this goes well on the day for the champions who are playing at Wimbledon. Yeah, it’s incredible to see it behind the scenes,” she said. Also read: NZ captain Kane Williamson opens up on knee injury, chances of featuring in ODI World Cup This year’s Wimbledon is set to start from July 3. Current world no.1 and defending champion Novak Djokovic will be aiming to touch Roger Federer’s record of winning his eighth Wimbledon title this time. Federer won his eighth and final Wimbledon title in 2017. The Swiss maestro retired from professional tennis in September last year.

Princess Kate plays tennis with Roger Federer at Wimbledon

Carlos Alcaraz defeated Alex De Minaur in the final of the Queen's Championship to win his maiden grass-court title. Can the Spaniard dethrone four-time defending champion Novak Djokovic at Wimbledon?

Can Alcaraz dethrone Djokovic at Wimbledon?

<p>Carlos Alcaraz remains in the hunt for his first grass court title as the world number two beat former champion Grigor Dimitrov 6-4, 6-4 to reach the semi-finals at Queen's Club on Friday.</p>

<p>Alcaraz admitted earlier in the week to watching videos of Roger Federer and Andy Murray to learn how to move on the grass and appears to be finding his feet on the surface ahead of Wimbledon next month.</p>

<p>Since surviving a marathon first round encounter with French lucky loser Arthur Rinderknech, Alcaraz has not dropped a set to reach the last four in London.</p>

<p>A break in the first game was enough to win the Spaniard the first set as Dimitrov missed three chances to break back in the sixth game.</p>

<p>The Bulgarian, who won the Queen's title in 2014, got off to a flier in the second set as he led 3-0.</p>

<p>Alcaraz battled back to lead 4-3, only to give the break back for 4-4.</p>

<p>However, the US Open champion was gifted the chance to serve for the match when an error-strewn game from Dimitrov threw away his serve to love.</p>

<p>Alcaraz took full advantage to set up a semi-final clash with Sebastian Korda, who beat British number one Cameron Norrie 6-4, 7-6 (7/1).</p>

<p>"Grigor is a really top player in every surface, but even more here on grass, he feels the ball very well," said Alcaraz.</p>

<p>"I played very well since the beginning. The two matches before helped me a lot."</p>

<p>Second seed Holger Rune said he was fired up by Lorenzo Musetti's smashed overhead that hit the Dane in his 6-4, 7-5 quarter-final win.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-zak-crawley-makes-bold-prediction-for-lords-test-predicts-england-to-win-by-this-big-margin-607884">Ashes 2023: Zak Crawley makes BOLD prediction for Lord's Test, predicts England will win by THIS margin</a></p>

<p>The world number six is also into his first semi-final on the grass.</p>

<p>"He can do what he wants," said Rune. "I mean, it's not the best thing to do, for sure. But again, it is legal. He can hit the ball where he wants to."</p>

<p>"It just gave me fire in the belly to beat him even more. I'm super happy to manage to beat him in two sets."</p>

<p>Rune faces Australia's Alex De Minaur in the last four after he beat Frenchman Adrian Mannarino 6-4, 4-6, 6-4.</p>

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<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Carlos Alcaraz remains in the hunt for his first grass court title as the world number two beat former champion Grigor Dimitrov 6-4, 6-4 to reach the semi-finals at Queen's Club on Friday.

Carlos Alcaraz remains in the hunt for his first grass court title as the world number two beat former champion Grigor Dimitrov 6-4, 6-4 to reach the semi-finals at Queen's Club on Friday. Alcaraz admitted earlier in the week to watching videos of Roger Federer and Andy Murray to learn how to move on the grass and appears to be finding his feet on the surface ahead of Wimbledon next month. Since surviving a marathon first round encounter with French lucky loser Arthur Rinderknech, Alcaraz has not dropped a set to reach the last four in London. A break in the first game was enough to win the Spaniard the first set as Dimitrov missed three chances to break back in the sixth game. The Bulgarian, who won the Queen's title in 2014, got off to a flier in the second set as he led 3-0. Alcaraz battled back to lead 4-3, only to give the break back for 4-4. However, the US Open champion was gifted the chance to serve for the match when an error-strewn game from Dimitrov threw away his serve to love. Alcaraz took full advantage to set up a semi-final clash with Sebastian Korda, who beat British number one Cameron Norrie 6-4, 7-6 (7/1). "Grigor is a really top player in every surface, but even more here on grass, he feels the ball very well," said Alcaraz. "I played very well since the beginning. The two matches before helped me a lot." Second seed Holger Rune said he was fired up by Lorenzo Musetti's smashed overhead that hit the Dane in his 6-4, 7-5 quarter-final win. ALSO READ | Ashes 2023: Zak Crawley makes BOLD prediction for Lord's Test, predicts England will win by THIS margin The world number six is also into his first semi-final on the grass. "He can do what he wants," said Rune. "I mean, it's not the best thing to do, for sure. But again, it is legal. He can hit the ball where he wants to." "It just gave me fire in the belly to beat him even more. I'm super happy to manage to beat him in two sets." Rune faces Australia's Alex De Minaur in the last four after he beat Frenchman Adrian Mannarino 6-4, 4-6, 6-4. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Tennis: Carlos Alcaraz powers past Grigor Dimitrov into Queen's Club semi-finals

<p>Venus Williams narrowly failed to reach her first WTA quarter-final in four years as the American legend was beaten by Jelena Ostapenko in the second round in Birmingham on Thursday. Williams had enjoyed her first victory over a top-50 opponent in four years on Monday when the former world number one beat Camila Giorgi in her Birmingham opener.</p>

<p>But the 43-year-old, a seven-time Grand Slam champion, was unable to make it two in a row as she succumbed to a hard-fought 6-3, 5-7, 6-3 loss to Latvia's Ostapenko on the Edgbaston grass. Williams briefly rolled back the years when she saved a match point at 3-5 in the second set, then reeled off three successive games as second-seeded Ostapenko lost her rhythm.</p>

<p>After Williams moved 2-0 ahead in the deciding set, it appeared the five-time&nbsp;Wimbledon&nbsp;winner might be on course for the last eight. But Ostapenko, a former&nbsp;Wimbledon&nbsp;semi-finalist, recomposed herself and eventually shattered Williams' hopes of a morale-boosting run at Birmingham ahead of the start of&nbsp;Wimbledon&nbsp;on July 3.</p>

<p>"Of course I could finish it a bit quicker. I got a little bit disappointed after the match point in the second set. But Venus is a great player, a great champion and it's an honour to share the court with her," former French Open champion Ostapenko said. "She's a very dangerous player, especially on grass. She was serving really well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It was a little bit hard, but I'm really happy that I managed it and I was fighting until the very last point. She's an idol for a lot of people so it was very special."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/san-antonio-spurs-pick-one-in-a-generation-talent-victor-wembanyama-in-nba-draft-607692">San Antonio Spurs pick one-in-a-generation talent Victor Wembanyama in NBA Draft</a></strong></p>

<p>Williams will hope to recover from a knee injury that dogged her in Birmingham after being awarded a wild card entry for&nbsp;Wimbledon, where she made her debut in 1997 and reached her most recent Grand Slam final in 2017.</p>

<p>In the quarter-finals, Ostapenko faces Poland's Magdalena Frech, who battled past eighth seed Sorana Cirstea 6-3, 6-7 (1/7), 6-4. Britain's Harriet Dart will take on fourth seed Anastasia Potapova, who defeated American Caty McNally 6-3, 2-6, 7-6 (7/0).</p>

<p>Meanwhile, there will be an all-Czech quarter-final between top seed Barbora Krejcikova and 18-year-old Linda Fruhvirtova. Fruhvirtova was already through to the last eight and former French Open champion Krejcikova joined her by seeing off Tereza Martincova 6-4, 6-4.</p>


Venus Williams narrowly failed to reach her first WTA quarter-final in four years as the American legend was beaten by Jelena Ostapenko in the second round in Birmingham on Thursday.

Venus Williams narrowly failed to reach her first WTA quarter-final in four years as the American legend was beaten by Jelena Ostapenko in the second round in Birmingham on Thursday. Williams had enjoyed her first victory over a top-50 opponent in four years on Monday when the former world number one beat Camila Giorgi in her Birmingham opener. But the 43-year-old, a seven-time Grand Slam champion, was unable to make it two in a row as she succumbed to a hard-fought 6-3, 5-7, 6-3 loss to Latvia's Ostapenko on the Edgbaston grass. Williams briefly rolled back the years when she saved a match point at 3-5 in the second set, then reeled off three successive games as second-seeded Ostapenko lost her rhythm. After Williams moved 2-0 ahead in the deciding set, it appeared the five-time Wimbledon winner might be on course for the last eight. But Ostapenko, a former Wimbledon semi-finalist, recomposed herself and eventually shattered Williams' hopes of a morale-boosting run at Birmingham ahead of the start of Wimbledon on July 3. "Of course I could finish it a bit quicker. I got a little bit disappointed after the match point in the second set. But Venus is a great player, a great champion and it's an honour to share the court with her," former French Open champion Ostapenko said. "She's a very dangerous player, especially on grass. She was serving really well. "It was a little bit hard, but I'm really happy that I managed it and I was fighting until the very last point. She's an idol for a lot of people so it was very special." Also Read | San Antonio Spurs pick one-in-a-generation talent Victor Wembanyama in NBA Draft Williams will hope to recover from a knee injury that dogged her in Birmingham after being awarded a wild card entry for Wimbledon, where she made her debut in 1997 and reached her most recent Grand Slam final in 2017. In the quarter-finals, Ostapenko faces Poland's Magdalena Frech, who battled past eighth seed Sorana Cirstea 6-3, 6-7 (1/7), 6-4. Britain's Harriet Dart will take on fourth seed Anastasia Potapova, who defeated American Caty McNally 6-3, 2-6, 7-6 (7/0). Meanwhile, there will be an all-Czech quarter-final between top seed Barbora Krejcikova and 18-year-old Linda Fruhvirtova. Fruhvirtova was already through to the last eight and former French Open champion Krejcikova joined her by seeing off Tereza Martincova 6-4, 6-4.

Tennis: Latvia's Jelena Ostapenko knocks out Venus Williams in Birmingham Classic

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<p>Veteran Roger Federer was the guest of honour on the 30th anniversary of the Halle Open on June 21, Wednesday, while inside OWL Arena, a special ceremony was held to mark his achievement. The ten-time&nbsp;German grass-court ATP 500 event winner also weighed on the GOAT (Greatest of all time) debate following Novak Djokovic’s record-breaking 23 Grand Slam wins at the Roland Garros in Paris lately.</p>

<p>As the tournament commemorated "Roger Federer Day" on the centre court, the 103-time ATP tour-level winner praised Novak for his gigantic achievement but said for as long as Rafael Nadal is around, this debate stays alive.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">𝐑𝐅 is honoured in Halle 🐐<a href="https://twitter.com/ATPHalle?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ATPHalle</a> welcomes back 10-time champion <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RogerFedererDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RogerFedererDay</a>! ❤️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TerraWortmannOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TerraWortmannOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/DDypaGO6op">pic.twitter.com/DDypaGO6op</a></p>
— ATP Tour (@atptour) <a href="https://twitter.com/atptour/status/1671538695134912512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Federer, who retired from professional tennis last September during the Laver Cup, showered praises on Novak, aged 36, for becoming the first male Tennis star to win 23 Grand Slams in Open Era, surpassing Nadal's tally of 22 Slam wins.</p>

<p>And by mentioning Rod Laver’s unique record of him lifting the Wimbledon title at the age of 17 in the same sentence, Roger said, "What is better? Winning Wimbledon at 17 like Becker or Paris at 36 like Novak? I don't know."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bidding-committee-underestimating-2024-olympics-budget-is-now-costing-paris-says-government-report-607215">Bidding committee 'underestimating' 2024 Olympics budget is now costing Paris, says Government report</a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, when asked to share his thoughts on the GOAT debate, Roger, who is widely regarded as the greatest athlete of all time, let alone in Tennis, replied by saying till the time his old foe on the field and a dear friend of his, Rafael Nadal is around, calling Novak the GOAT will not do justice.</p>

<p>"What he has achieved is absolutely gigantic. It could be sufficient. But I think as long as Rafa is still playing, too, you can't answer that definitively yet," Roger added.</p>

<h2>Rogers relishes time spent in Halle</h2>

<p>At Halle, Roger boasts a 69-8 career record, having won in 2003-06, 2008, 2013-15, 2017 and 2019. Upon returning to the event for the first time since hanging his boots, Federer remembered&nbsp;the time spent in this event over the past two decades and cherished&nbsp;his friendship with the Weber family.</p>

<p>“With Halle, we go way back,” said Federer. “I don’t know the first time I ever came here, maybe 22 years ago, and I played 18 years in those years. More than just a partnership, it’s also become a friendship over the years with the Weber family, first Gerhard Weber and then Ralf, who is now the tournament director. So it’s been a wonderful time, obviously also [I had] a lot of success here."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Memories that will last forever. 🫂<br />
<br />
There is only one <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> ✨<a href="https://twitter.com/ATPHalle?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ATPHalle</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TerraWortmannOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TerraWortmannOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/2Yxv02a88p">pic.twitter.com/2Yxv02a88p</a></p>
— ATP Tour (@atptour) <a href="https://twitter.com/atptour/status/1671571179830640666?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>“[There were] great times, good moments spent as well in the second part of my career with the family. My kids would be running around all across the venue, and also the fans. We got to know them all, there’s been a lot of moments for interaction as well. It’s been really good, to be honest, and I always love coming here, so it’s really nice to come back again once I’m retired,” Federer added.&nbsp;</p>

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Veteran Roger Federer was the guest of honour on the 30th anniversary of the Halle Open on June 21, Wednesday, while inside OWL Arena, a special ceremony was held to mark his achievement.

Veteran Roger Federer was the guest of honour on the 30th anniversary of the Halle Open on June 21, Wednesday, while inside OWL Arena, a special ceremony was held to mark his achievement. The ten-time German grass-court ATP 500 event winner also weighed on the GOAT (Greatest of all time) debate following Novak Djokovic’s record-breaking 23 Grand Slam wins at the Roland Garros in Paris lately. As the tournament commemorated "Roger Federer Day" on the centre court, the 103-time ATP tour-level winner praised Novak for his gigantic achievement but said for as long as Rafael Nadal is around, this debate stays alive. 𝐑𝐅 is honoured in Halle 🐐@ATPHalle welcomes back 10-time champion @rogerfederer on #RogerFedererDay! ❤️#TerraWortmannOpen pic.twitter.com/DDypaGO6op — ATP Tour (@atptour) June 21, 2023 × Federer, who retired from professional tennis last September during the Laver Cup, showered praises on Novak, aged 36, for becoming the first male Tennis star to win 23 Grand Slams in Open Era, surpassing Nadal's tally of 22 Slam wins. And by mentioning Rod Laver’s unique record of him lifting the Wimbledon title at the age of 17 in the same sentence, Roger said, "What is better? Winning Wimbledon at 17 like Becker or Paris at 36 like Novak? I don't know." ALSO READ: Bidding committee 'underestimating' 2024 Olympics budget is now costing Paris, says Government report Meanwhile, when asked to share his thoughts on the GOAT debate, Roger, who is widely regarded as the greatest athlete of all time, let alone in Tennis, replied by saying till the time his old foe on the field and a dear friend of his, Rafael Nadal is around, calling Novak the GOAT will not do justice. "What he has achieved is absolutely gigantic. It could be sufficient. But I think as long as Rafa is still playing, too, you can't answer that definitively yet," Roger added. Rogers relishes time spent in Halle At Halle, Roger boasts a 69-8 career record, having won in 2003-06, 2008, 2013-15, 2017 and 2019. Upon returning to the event for the first time since hanging his boots, Federer remembered the time spent in this event over the past two decades and cherished his friendship with the Weber family. “With Halle, we go way back,” said Federer. “I don’t know the first time I ever came here, maybe 22 years ago, and I played 18 years in those years. More than just a partnership, it’s also become a friendship over the years with the Weber family, first Gerhard Weber and then Ralf, who is now the tournament director. So it’s been a wonderful time, obviously also [I had] a lot of success here." Memories that will last forever. 🫂 There is only one @rogerfederer ✨@ATPHalle | #TerraWortmannOpen pic.twitter.com/2Yxv02a88p — ATP Tour (@atptour) June 21, 2023 × “[There were] great times, good moments spent as well in the second part of my career with the family. My kids would be running around all across the venue, and also the fans. We got to know them all, there’s been a lot of moments for interaction as well. It’s been really good, to be honest, and I always love coming here, so it’s really nice to come back again once I’m retired,” Federer added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Roger Federer weighs in on GOAT debate, says 'what Novak has achieved is gigantic but till Nadal is around...'

<p>Eighteen-time Grand Slam winner Martina Navratilova is cleared of throat and breast cancer. On June 19, the legendary tennis player revealed the development herself on her official Twitter handle.&nbsp;Navratilova took to Twitter and wrote, “After a day full of tests at Sloan Kettering, I got the all clear! Thank you to all the doctors, nurses, proton and radiation magicians etc- what a relief."</p>

<h2><strong>'What a relief'</strong></h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">After a day full of tests at Sloan Kettering, I got the all clear! Thank you to all the doctors, nurses, proton and radiation magicians etc- what a relief:)<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/byebyecancer?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#byebyecancer</a> :) and yes, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/fuckcancer?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#fuckcancer</a> !!!</p>
— Martina Navratilova (@Martina) <a href="https://twitter.com/Martina/status/1670901154769784836?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Early this year, in January 2023, Navratilova revealed of being diagnosed with cancer. Courtesy of her representative, the 66-year-old released a statement&nbsp;dwelling&nbsp;on the&nbsp;seriousness of her illness and said, "This double whammy is serious but still fixable, and I’m hoping for a favourable outcome. It’s going to stink for a while but I’ll fight with all have I got."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/golf-former-major-champion-tom-watson-questions-liv-pga-merger-in-a-letter-to-jay-monahan-606518">Golf: Former major champion Tom Watson questions LIV-PGA merger in a letter to Jay Monahan</a></strong></p>

<p>Navratilova remains one of the greatest in the game. The yesteryear superstar ended her illustrious career with as many as 18 Grand Slam singles titles along with a total of 167 WTA titles, the most by a woman player in the Open Era. Navratilova was a force to reckon with on grass, having emerged on top in Wimbledon on nine instances (in 1978, 1979, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987 and 1990). She conquered the US Open four times, won the Australian Open thrice and returned as the eventual champion twice in the French Open.</p>

<p>Navratilova is hailed for her fighting spirit on as well as off the court. Despite her constant health struggles,&nbsp;the veteran player was seen working as a TV broadcaster with Tennis Channel during the 2023 Miami Open in March. Being free from the cancer threat, she will now aim to continue her work in many spheres. She is involved with various charities aimed at benefitting animal rights, underprivileged children, and gay rights.</p>

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Eighteen-time Grand Slam winner Martina Navratilova is cleared of throat and breast cancer. On June 19, the legendary tennis player revealed the development herself on her official Twitter handle.

Eighteen-time Grand Slam winner Martina Navratilova is cleared of throat and breast cancer. On June 19, the legendary tennis player revealed the development herself on her official Twitter handle. Navratilova took to Twitter and wrote, “After a day full of tests at Sloan Kettering, I got the all clear! Thank you to all the doctors, nurses, proton and radiation magicians etc- what a relief." 'What a relief' After a day full of tests at Sloan Kettering, I got the all clear! Thank you to all the doctors, nurses, proton and radiation magicians etc- what a relief:)#byebyecancer :) and yes, #fuckcancer !!! — Martina Navratilova (@Martina) June 19, 2023 × Early this year, in January 2023, Navratilova revealed of being diagnosed with cancer. Courtesy of her representative, the 66-year-old released a statement dwelling on the seriousness of her illness and said, "This double whammy is serious but still fixable, and I’m hoping for a favourable outcome. It’s going to stink for a while but I’ll fight with all have I got." Also Read: Golf: Former major champion Tom Watson questions LIV-PGA merger in a letter to Jay Monahan Navratilova remains one of the greatest in the game. The yesteryear superstar ended her illustrious career with as many as 18 Grand Slam singles titles along with a total of 167 WTA titles, the most by a woman player in the Open Era. Navratilova was a force to reckon with on grass, having emerged on top in Wimbledon on nine instances (in 1978, 1979, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987 and 1990). She conquered the US Open four times, won the Australian Open thrice and returned as the eventual champion twice in the French Open. Navratilova is hailed for her fighting spirit on as well as off the court. Despite her constant health struggles, the veteran player was seen working as a TV broadcaster with Tennis Channel during the 2023 Miami Open in March. Being free from the cancer threat, she will now aim to continue her work in many spheres. She is involved with various charities aimed at benefitting animal rights, underprivileged children, and gay rights. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Tennis: 18-time Grand Slam winner Martina Navratilova cleared of throat and breast cancer

<p>Veteran tennis player Venus Williams turned back the clock on Monday as she won in the first round of WTA 250 event. The 43-year-old, who was playing with a strapped knee, beat Italian Camila Giorgi 7-6(5), 4-6, 7-6(6) for her first top-50 win since 2019.</p>

<p>The game, however, saw an incident with Giorgi seemingly going against the sporting spirit to score a point over Venus. The incident happened in the first set itself when Venus fell after hitting a forehand but Giorgi continued to play. The Italian won the point but, it was her celebratory scream after winning the point which made heads turn.</p>

<p>Venus' sister and Tennis legend Serena Williams' coach Rennae Stubbs was one among many who called out Giorgi for her on-court gesture during the play.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Venus Williams slips &amp; falls against Camila Giorgi.<br />
<br />
This could’ve been a lot worse. She’s already playing with an injured knee. Thankfully she’s okay 🙏🏼<br />
<br />
The crowd cheered for her as she got back up to her feet ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/U93EeolUvz">pic.twitter.com/U93EeolUvz</a></p>
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheTennisLetter/status/1670823618237050881?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Camilla Giorgi just yelled Si when @Venuseswilliams just fell over and screamed! I mean wtf !!! I honestly think that could be the lowest moment of her career!!!! And you NEVER want to see this face coming at you now! Come on Vee!" Stubbs tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Camilla Giorgi just yelled Si when <a href="https://twitter.com/Venuseswilliams?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Venuseswilliams</a> just fell over and screamed! I mean wtf !!! I honestly think that could be the lowest moment of her career!!!! And you NEVER want to see this face coming at you now! Come on Vee! <a href="https://t.co/q9QvZ2N8de">pic.twitter.com/q9QvZ2N8de</a></p>
— Rennae Stubbs 🟦👍🏼 (@rennaestubbs) <a href="https://twitter.com/rennaestubbs/status/1670826190590885888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Venus, after the win, went on to praise her opponent and said that Giorgi pushed her to be better.</p>

<p>"I thought I played so well today and she also played incredible," Venus Williams said. "So, she pushed me to be better than what I thought I could be and this is great, great for me," said the seven-time Grand Slam winner via Tennis.com.</p>

<p>"I got to a great start, my leg started hurting in the third game, I was like 'Oh no, not this.' It was really hard to control my emotions, to be honest, and eventually, I just acclimated to what I was going through and tried to ignore it. I couldn't move as well as I wanted but I tried to hit every ball that I could," she added.</p>

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Veteran tennis player Venus Williams turned back the clock on Monday as she won in the first round of WTA 250 event. The 43-year-old, who was playing with a strapped knee, beat Italian Camila Giorgi 7-6(5), 4-6, 7-6(6) for her first top-50 win since 2019.

Veteran tennis player Venus Williams turned back the clock on Monday as she won in the first round of WTA 250 event. The 43-year-old, who was playing with a strapped knee, beat Italian Camila Giorgi 7-6(5), 4-6, 7-6(6) for her first top-50 win since 2019. The game, however, saw an incident with Giorgi seemingly going against the sporting spirit to score a point over Venus. The incident happened in the first set itself when Venus fell after hitting a forehand but Giorgi continued to play. The Italian won the point but, it was her celebratory scream after winning the point which made heads turn. Venus' sister and Tennis legend Serena Williams' coach Rennae Stubbs was one among many who called out Giorgi for her on-court gesture during the play. Venus Williams slips & falls against Camila Giorgi. This could’ve been a lot worse. She’s already playing with an injured knee. Thankfully she’s okay 🙏🏼 The crowd cheered for her as she got back up to her feet ❤️ pic.twitter.com/U93EeolUvz — The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) June 19, 2023 × "Camilla Giorgi just yelled Si when @Venuseswilliams just fell over and screamed! I mean wtf !!! I honestly think that could be the lowest moment of her career!!!! And you NEVER want to see this face coming at you now! Come on Vee!" Stubbs tweeted. Camilla Giorgi just yelled Si when @Venuseswilliams just fell over and screamed! I mean wtf !!! I honestly think that could be the lowest moment of her career!!!! And you NEVER want to see this face coming at you now! Come on Vee! pic.twitter.com/q9QvZ2N8de — Rennae Stubbs 🟦👍🏼 (@rennaestubbs) June 19, 2023 × Venus, after the win, went on to praise her opponent and said that Giorgi pushed her to be better. "I thought I played so well today and she also played incredible," Venus Williams said. "So, she pushed me to be better than what I thought I could be and this is great, great for me," said the seven-time Grand Slam winner via Tennis.com. "I got to a great start, my leg started hurting in the third game, I was like 'Oh no, not this.' It was really hard to control my emotions, to be honest, and eventually, I just acclimated to what I was going through and tried to ignore it. I couldn't move as well as I wanted but I tried to hit every ball that I could," she added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tennis: Venus Williams falls but opponent Camila Giorgi scores point and celebrates during WTA 250 - WATCH

<p>Former world number one Andy Murray is gearing up for the upcoming Wimbledon and said that he's in the best shape following his hip surgery. The 36-year-old had a hip resurfacing surgery in 2019 after which the three-time Grand Slam winner resuscitated his career.</p>

<p>"In terms of physically how I have been, the last six to nine months have been really good and that has been the best I have felt since my surgery, that is really positive," Murray said as quoted by news agency Reuters following his 6-3, 7-5 win over Hugo Grenier in Rothesay Nottingham Open. The win took Murray to the quarterfinals of the tournament.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-ready-and-eager-for-inter-miami-challenge-in-mls-605465">Lionel Messi READY and EAGER for Inter Miami challenge in MLS</a></p>

<p>"I am getting lots of matches in. I always feel really comfortable on the grass courts, so the next few weeks will be a good test for me," added Murray.</p>

<p>The veteran tennis star, however, didn't take part in the recently-concluded French Open tournament following early exits in Monte Carlo, Madrid, Rome and Bordeaux. Meanwhile, Murray&nbsp;won the second-tier Aix-en-Provence Challenger Tour title last month.</p>

<p>He, however, agreed that it is a bit difficult to assess his playing level right now and that playing against top-ranked players will be the right exposure required to be certain about his game.</p>

<p>"It is really hard to say if I'm playing my best level overall," Murray said. "I don't know because, I mean absolutely no disrespect to the players I am playing against, I am aware they are very good players, but when you're playing against guys who are in the top 10 in the world, they are able to expose certain things in your game a little bit more as well," added Murray.</p>

<p>Murray has won Wimbledon twice (2013 &amp; 2016) in his grand slam tally of three, with one being the US Open (2012). He also finished the year 2016 as the top-ranked player in the world. The Wimbledon 2023 is set to be played next month from July 3-16.</p>

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Former world number one Andy Murray is gearing up for the upcoming Wimbledon and said that he's in the best shape following his hip surgery. The 36-year-old had a hip resurfacing surgery in 2019 after which the three-time Grand Slam winner resuscitated his career.

Former world number one Andy Murray is gearing up for the upcoming Wimbledon and said that he's in the best shape following his hip surgery. The 36-year-old had a hip resurfacing surgery in 2019 after which the three-time Grand Slam winner resuscitated his career. "In terms of physically how I have been, the last six to nine months have been really good and that has been the best I have felt since my surgery, that is really positive," Murray said as quoted by news agency Reuters following his 6-3, 7-5 win over Hugo Grenier in Rothesay Nottingham Open. The win took Murray to the quarterfinals of the tournament. Also Read: Lionel Messi READY and EAGER for Inter Miami challenge in MLS "I am getting lots of matches in. I always feel really comfortable on the grass courts, so the next few weeks will be a good test for me," added Murray. The veteran tennis star, however, didn't take part in the recently-concluded French Open tournament following early exits in Monte Carlo, Madrid, Rome and Bordeaux. Meanwhile, Murray won the second-tier Aix-en-Provence Challenger Tour title last month. He, however, agreed that it is a bit difficult to assess his playing level right now and that playing against top-ranked players will be the right exposure required to be certain about his game. "It is really hard to say if I'm playing my best level overall," Murray said. "I don't know because, I mean absolutely no disrespect to the players I am playing against, I am aware they are very good players, but when you're playing against guys who are in the top 10 in the world, they are able to expose certain things in your game a little bit more as well," added Murray. Murray has won Wimbledon twice (2013 & 2016) in his grand slam tally of three, with one being the US Open (2012). He also finished the year 2016 as the top-ranked player in the world. The Wimbledon 2023 is set to be played next month from July 3-16. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tennis: Former world no. 1 Andy Murray ready for Wimbledon with 'best physical shape' since hip surgery

<p>Estonian Anett Kontaveit, who reached a career-high of number two in the world last year, said she is retiring at the age of 27 due to a degenerative back injury and will play her final tournament at Wimbledon next month. Kontaveit cut her 2022 season short in October and took another two-month break in February to focus on the issue.</p>

<p>"After several doctor's visits and consultations with my medical team, I have been advised that I have lumbar disc degeneration in my back," she wrote on Instagram on Tuesday. "This does not allow for full-scale training or continued competition. Therefore, it is impossible to continue at the top level in such a highly competitive field. "I am ready for new challenges after my last effort as a professional tennis player - to enjoy the game and compete as hard as I can at Wimbledon."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-heat-shift-focus-on-damian-lillard-after-failing-to-get-bradley-beal-606321">NBA: Heat shift focus on Damian Lillard after failing to get Bradley Beal</a></strong></p>

<p>Kontaveit, now ranked 79th in the world, exited the Australian Open in the second round and has not played since a first-round defeat at the French Open in May. A quarter-final run at Melbourne Park in 2020 is her best Grand Slam result to date. Kontaveit won four titles and reached the WTA Finals in a breakthrough 2021 season and was ranked world number two last September at the U.S. Open, where she lost to Serena Williams in the second round.</p>


Estonian Anett Kontaveit, who reached a career-high of number two in the world last year, said she is retiring at the age of 27 due to a degenerative back injury and will play her final tournament at Wimbledon next month.

Estonian Anett Kontaveit, who reached a career-high of number two in the world last year, said she is retiring at the age of 27 due to a degenerative back injury and will play her final tournament at Wimbledon next month. Kontaveit cut her 2022 season short in October and took another two-month break in February to focus on the issue. "After several doctor's visits and consultations with my medical team, I have been advised that I have lumbar disc degeneration in my back," she wrote on Instagram on Tuesday. "This does not allow for full-scale training or continued competition. Therefore, it is impossible to continue at the top level in such a highly competitive field. "I am ready for new challenges after my last effort as a professional tennis player - to enjoy the game and compete as hard as I can at Wimbledon." Also Read: NBA: Heat shift focus on Damian Lillard after failing to get Bradley Beal Kontaveit, now ranked 79th in the world, exited the Australian Open in the second round and has not played since a first-round defeat at the French Open in May. A quarter-final run at Melbourne Park in 2020 is her best Grand Slam result to date. Kontaveit won four titles and reached the WTA Finals in a breakthrough 2021 season and was ranked world number two last September at the U.S. Open, where she lost to Serena Williams in the second round.

Tennis: Anett Kontaveit to call it quits after Wimbledon 2023 due to back injury

<p>Carlos Alcaraz makes his Queen's Club Championships debut this week and the Spaniard knows he has a lot of adjustments to make to his game if he is to be a contender at the grasscourt event and at Wimbledon next month.</p>

<p>Alcaraz is coming off a disappointing French Open where the 20-year-old, who had warmed up for the claycourt Grand Slam with titles in Barcelona and Madrid, suffered severe cramp during a 6-3 5-7 6-1 6-1 semi-final defeat by Novak Djokovic.</p>

<p>Alcaraz will be playing in only the third grasscourt tournament of his career at tour level this week and he said his practice on the surface had been limited.</p>

<p>"I arrived in London Saturday morning and I had my first practice on grass," he said. "I wasn't able to practice too much at home as we have no grass courts. "I need to adapt my movement and shots on the grass, but I'm really happy with the practice I have had here."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/golf-rory-mcilroy-ready-go-through-100-sundays-like-this-for-another-major-title-606063">Golf: Rory McIlroy ready go through '100 Sundays like this' for another major title</a></strong></p>

<p>Alcaraz, who reached the fourth round at Wimbledon last year before winning the U.S. Open on the hard courts of New York, said how well he moves on grass would be key.</p>

<p>"You need to be more careful than other surfaces," Alcaraz, who plays Arthur Fils on Tuesday, said. "The most comfortable is going to the net and playing aggressively all the time. For me it's similar to other surfaces with my style.</p>

<p>"There are a lot of players who slice on grass. I'm not one of them so I have to think about movement. I have to be focused on every movement and shot. "For me it's more tiring when you're moving on grass. It's totally different, so you have to be really specific."</p>


Carlos Alcaraz makes his Queen's Club Championships debut this week and the Spaniard knows he has a lot of adjustments to make to his game if he is to be a contender at the grasscourt event and at Wimbledon next month.

Carlos Alcaraz makes his Queen's Club Championships debut this week and the Spaniard knows he has a lot of adjustments to make to his game if he is to be a contender at the grasscourt event and at Wimbledon next month. Alcaraz is coming off a disappointing French Open where the 20-year-old, who had warmed up for the claycourt Grand Slam with titles in Barcelona and Madrid, suffered severe cramp during a 6-3 5-7 6-1 6-1 semi-final defeat by Novak Djokovic. Alcaraz will be playing in only the third grasscourt tournament of his career at tour level this week and he said his practice on the surface had been limited. "I arrived in London Saturday morning and I had my first practice on grass," he said. "I wasn't able to practice too much at home as we have no grass courts. "I need to adapt my movement and shots on the grass, but I'm really happy with the practice I have had here." Also Read: Golf: Rory McIlroy ready go through '100 Sundays like this' for another major title Alcaraz, who reached the fourth round at Wimbledon last year before winning the U.S. Open on the hard courts of New York, said how well he moves on grass would be key. "You need to be more careful than other surfaces," Alcaraz, who plays Arthur Fils on Tuesday, said. "The most comfortable is going to the net and playing aggressively all the time. For me it's similar to other surfaces with my style. "There are a lot of players who slice on grass. I'm not one of them so I have to think about movement. I have to be focused on every movement and shot. "For me it's more tiring when you're moving on grass. It's totally different, so you have to be really specific."

Tennis: Wimbledon 2023 - Carlos Alcaraz hopes to quickly adapt to grass after Paris disappointment

<p>Nick Kyrgios, famous for his tantrums on the court, had another one to show as he returned to a competitive tennis court for the first time since January. Playing in the Stuttgart Open, the Aussie went on a rant about wanting white towels, a shortage of water on the sidelines and bounce of the grass on the court he was playing.</p>

<p>"It took me three games to get white towels," said Kyrgios, who initially got worked up due to coloured towels. "They soak up the sweat better. I'm the same at every tourney. They all have white ones in the locker room.</p>

<p>"I'm not asking to move mountains. White towels actually take the sweat off my body -- we are professional athletes," said the fiery athlete.</p>

<p>Kyrgios, who is currently ranked 25th in the world, however, lost to lower-ranked Wu Yibing 7-5, 6-3 in straight sets. Notably, this was the debut match for China's Wu on the grass court who is ranked 64th in the world and had won the Dallas title in February.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sunil-gavaskar-says-india-beating-west-indies-2-0-on-upcoming-tour-wont-mean-anything-after-wtc-final-loss-604237">Sunil Gavaskar says India beating West Indies 2-0 on upcoming tour won't 'mean anything' after WTC Final loss</a></p>

<p>Kyrgios had knee surgery in January and the match against Wu was his first since then. The Australian, after the match, asked his fans to be patient as he'll take more time to get back where he was.</p>

<p>"Be patient with me my fans please. It's a process to get back to where I was. I know it's hard for you to see me perform like today, but I need more time and hopefully can get back to where I was," read his tweet.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Be patient with me my fans please…. It’s a process to get back to where I was. I know it’s hard for you to see me perform like today, but I need more time and hopefully can get back to where I was.</p>
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<p>Nick had also withdrawn from the French Open 2023 due to the same knee injury that kept him out of the Australian Open early this year, in January.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's not looking likely. We are trying everything we can to have Nick ready on the court as soon as possible," Kyrgios's agent Daniel Horsfall had said.</p>

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Nick Kyrgios, famous for his tantrums on the court, had another one to show as he returned to a competitive tennis court for the first time since January. Playing in the Stuttgart Open, the Aussie went on a rant about wanting white towels, a shortage of water on the sidelines and bounce of the grass on the court he was playing.

Nick Kyrgios, famous for his tantrums on the court, had another one to show as he returned to a competitive tennis court for the first time since January. Playing in the Stuttgart Open, the Aussie went on a rant about wanting white towels, a shortage of water on the sidelines and bounce of the grass on the court he was playing. "It took me three games to get white towels," said Kyrgios, who initially got worked up due to coloured towels. "They soak up the sweat better. I'm the same at every tourney. They all have white ones in the locker room. "I'm not asking to move mountains. White towels actually take the sweat off my body -- we are professional athletes," said the fiery athlete. Kyrgios, who is currently ranked 25th in the world, however, lost to lower-ranked Wu Yibing 7-5, 6-3 in straight sets. Notably, this was the debut match for China's Wu on the grass court who is ranked 64th in the world and had won the Dallas title in February. Also Read: Sunil Gavaskar says India beating West Indies 2-0 on upcoming tour won't 'mean anything' after WTC Final loss Kyrgios had knee surgery in January and the match against Wu was his first since then. The Australian, after the match, asked his fans to be patient as he'll take more time to get back where he was. "Be patient with me my fans please. It's a process to get back to where I was. I know it's hard for you to see me perform like today, but I need more time and hopefully can get back to where I was," read his tweet. Be patient with me my fans please…. It’s a process to get back to where I was. I know it’s hard for you to see me perform like today, but I need more time and hopefully can get back to where I was. — Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) June 13, 2023 × Nick had also withdrawn from the French Open 2023 due to the same knee injury that kept him out of the Australian Open early this year, in January. "It's not looking likely. We are trying everything we can to have Nick ready on the court as soon as possible," Kyrgios's agent Daniel Horsfall had said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tennis: Typical Nick Kyrgios goes on rant about wanting 'white towels' on his return

<p>The total prize money on offer at Wimbledon has risen to a record&nbsp; $56.52 million&nbsp;for the Championships this year, a 11.2% increase on 2022, the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) said on Wednesday. Winners and runners-up of the men's and women's singles finals will also see their prize money rising to previous levels in 2019, where they received $2.98&nbsp;million and $1.49&nbsp;million pounds, respectively.</p>

<p>The prize money for winners fell to $2.6&nbsp;million in 2021 before it was increased to $2.54 million last year. The qualifying competition prize fund has also received a 14.5% increase on last year while any player losing a first-round match is assured of at least $69,000 -- an increase of 10% on 2022.</p>

<p>"We are delighted to offer record prize money to the players competing at the Championships this year, with double digit increases across the majority of events," said AELTC chairman Ian Hewitt.</p>

<p>"Our ambition with this distribution is to return the singles champions and runners-up prize money to the levels in 2019 prior to the (COVID-19) pandemic whilst... providing deserved support for players in the early rounds of the event."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/selectors-may-take-decision-on-rohits-captaincy-later-this-year-report-604215">Selectors may take decision on Rohit's captaincy later this year - Report</a></p>

<p>The Wimbledon Championships will take place from July 3-16 with top names in running in both men’s and women’s department. As things stand Novak Djokovic and Iga Swiatek will be the favourites to win the Championships this year. Both recently won the French Open and have momentum on their side going into the third Grand Slam of the year.</p>

<p>For Djokovic, it could be another record-breaking Slam as he searches for his 24th title. He currently has 23 Grand Slam titles, most by any men’s singles player while another win will see him go level with great Margaret Court for most Singles titles in a Slam.</p>

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The total prize money on offer at Wimbledon has risen to a record $56.52 million for the Championships this year, a 11.2% increase on 2022, the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) said on Wednesday.

The total prize money on offer at Wimbledon has risen to a record $56.52 million for the Championships this year, a 11.2% increase on 2022, the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) said on Wednesday. Winners and runners-up of the men's and women's singles finals will also see their prize money rising to previous levels in 2019, where they received $2.98 million and $1.49 million pounds, respectively. The prize money for winners fell to $2.6 million in 2021 before it was increased to $2.54 million last year. The qualifying competition prize fund has also received a 14.5% increase on last year while any player losing a first-round match is assured of at least $69,000 -- an increase of 10% on 2022. "We are delighted to offer record prize money to the players competing at the Championships this year, with double digit increases across the majority of events," said AELTC chairman Ian Hewitt. "Our ambition with this distribution is to return the singles champions and runners-up prize money to the levels in 2019 prior to the (COVID-19) pandemic whilst... providing deserved support for players in the early rounds of the event." ALSO READ | Selectors may take decision on Rohit's captaincy later this year - Report The Wimbledon Championships will take place from July 3-16 with top names in running in both men’s and women’s department. As things stand Novak Djokovic and Iga Swiatek will be the favourites to win the Championships this year. Both recently won the French Open and have momentum on their side going into the third Grand Slam of the year. For Djokovic, it could be another record-breaking Slam as he searches for his 24th title. He currently has 23 Grand Slam titles, most by any men’s singles player while another win will see him go level with great Margaret Court for most Singles titles in a Slam. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Wimbledon 2023: All England Club announces record hike in prize money, rises to $56.52 million in total

<p>Novak Djokovic defeated Casper Rudd in straight sets to win the French Open 2023 and, in the process, created history by becoming the first male tennis player ever to win record-breaking 23 Grand Slam titles. The Serbian is now the only player to win all Slams – Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon and US Open – at least three times.</p>

<p>The 36-year-old beat Ruud 7-6 (7/1), 6-3, 7-5 and went past Nadal – the Clay King, as the most successful male tennis player in history.</p>

<p>The veteran star won his third title Roland Garros after 2016 and 2021, in addition to winning ten Australian Open, seven Wimbledon and three US Open titles.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Falling in love in Paris 😘<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> <a href="https://t.co/yfK23yY9eC">pic.twitter.com/yfK23yY9eC</a></p>
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<p>While Novak’s 23rd Slam title puts him ahead of every male Tennis athlete ever, he joins the legendary pair of Margaret Court and Serena Williams on the list of players with 23 or more Grand Slam wins. He will aim for his 24th title at Wimbledon this year.</p>

<p>Upon winning the coveted trophy in Paris, France, the number three seeded at the event, Novak will reclaim his number one ranking on Monday, leapfrogging Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-2023-iga-swiatek-beat-karolina-muchova-to-win-womens-single-title-602974">French Open 2023: Iga Swiatek beats Karolina Muchova to win women's singles title</a></p>

<p>Playing his seventh French Open Final with a superb head-to-head record lead of 4-0 over Ruud, also without losing a set, Novak came with a mission. The Norwegian Ruud looked more composed at the start, taking a 3-0 lead. With the scorecard reading 4-1 at one stage, it looked like Ruud is up for a challenge and might break Novak’s unbeaten streak over him.</p>

<p>But as great players do, they make stunning comebacks, and so did the Serb star. After being down 1-4 at one stage, Novak pulled his socks and won the first set 7-6.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He took an early lead in the second set and made light work of his opponent, winning the second set 6-3. With only one set away from entering history books, Novak looked more determined than ever.</p>

<p>In the third and final set of the match, Novak and Ruud displayed their A-games, but with experience and will to win this high-octane clash, Novak had an edge over his opponent. Without much hassle, he overcame the challenge and beat Ruud to win his third French Open title – and overall 23rd Grand Slam title.</p>

<p>Moreover, some of the star players from other sports, like Kylian Mbappe and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, were present. NFL legend Tom Brady and former world heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson were also there.</p>

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Novak Djokovic defeated Casper Rudd in straight sets to win the French Open 2023 and, in the process, created history by becoming the first male tennis player ever to win record-breaking 23 Grand Slam titles.

Novak Djokovic defeated Casper Rudd in straight sets to win the French Open 2023 and, in the process, created history by becoming the first male tennis player ever to win record-breaking 23 Grand Slam titles. The Serbian is now the only player to win all Slams – Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon and US Open – at least three times. The 36-year-old beat Ruud 7-6 (7/1), 6-3, 7-5 and went past Nadal – the Clay King, as the most successful male tennis player in history. The veteran star won his third title Roland Garros after 2016 and 2021, in addition to winning ten Australian Open, seven Wimbledon and three US Open titles. Falling in love in Paris 😘#RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/yfK23yY9eC — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 11, 2023 × While Novak’s 23rd Slam title puts him ahead of every male Tennis athlete ever, he joins the legendary pair of Margaret Court and Serena Williams on the list of players with 23 or more Grand Slam wins. He will aim for his 24th title at Wimbledon this year. Upon winning the coveted trophy in Paris, France, the number three seeded at the event, Novak will reclaim his number one ranking on Monday, leapfrogging Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz. ALSO READ: French Open 2023: Iga Swiatek beats Karolina Muchova to win women's singles title Playing his seventh French Open Final with a superb head-to-head record lead of 4-0 over Ruud, also without losing a set, Novak came with a mission. The Norwegian Ruud looked more composed at the start, taking a 3-0 lead. With the scorecard reading 4-1 at one stage, it looked like Ruud is up for a challenge and might break Novak’s unbeaten streak over him. But as great players do, they make stunning comebacks, and so did the Serb star. After being down 1-4 at one stage, Novak pulled his socks and won the first set 7-6. He took an early lead in the second set and made light work of his opponent, winning the second set 6-3. With only one set away from entering history books, Novak looked more determined than ever. In the third and final set of the match, Novak and Ruud displayed their A-games, but with experience and will to win this high-octane clash, Novak had an edge over his opponent. Without much hassle, he overcame the challenge and beat Ruud to win his third French Open title – and overall 23rd Grand Slam title. Moreover, some of the star players from other sports, like Kylian Mbappe and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, were present. NFL legend Tom Brady and former world heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson were also there. The stage is yours, champ 😃#RolandGarros | @DjokerNole pic.twitter.com/74vuaZKmJ7 — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 11, 2023 × WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

French Open 2023: Novak Djokovic beats Casper Ruud to claim historic 23rd Grand Slam title

<p>Novak Djokovic insists it is "disrespectful" to hail him as the greatest player of all time after clinching a record-breaking 23rd men's Grand Slam title on Sunday.</p>

<p>36-year-old Djokovic defeated Casper Ruud in straight sets in the French Open final, breaking the tie of 22 majors he shared with longtime rival Rafael Nadal.</p>

<p>A third Roland Garros title added to his 10 Australian Open trophies, seven Wimbledons and three at the US Open.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-2023-novak-djokovic-beats-casper-ruud-to-claim-historic-23rd-grand-slam-title-603221">Novak Djokovic beats Casper Ruud to claim historic 23rd Grand Slam title</a></p>

<p>He is the only man to win all four Slams on at least three occasions and on Monday he will return to the world number one ranking and start a 388th week on top of the pile.</p>

<p>"I don't want to say that I am the greatest, because I feel it's disrespectful towards all the great champions in different eras of our sport that was played in completely different way than it is played today," said Djokovic.</p>

<p>"So I leave those kind of discussions of who is the greatest to someone else. I have of course huge faith and confidence and belief in myself and for everything that I am and who I am and what I am capable of doing."</p>

<p>However, despite becoming the oldest ever French Open champion, he warned he is far from finished.</p>

<p>When asked if he could win 24 or 25 majors, he replied: "Why not?"</p>

<p>Eleven of his Grand Slam titles have been secured since he turned 30.</p>

<p>Retirement is a long way off for a man who has already seen Roger Federer hang up his racquet with 20 majors to his name while 37-year-old Nadal, sitting out the rest of the season with injury, has already said 2024 will be his last as a professional.</p>

<p>"Of course the journey is still not over," said Djokovic. "I feel if I'm winning Slams, why even think about ending the career that already has been going on for 20 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"So I still feel motivated, I still feel inspired to play the best tennis in these tournaments. Those are the ones that count I guess the most in history of our sport.</p>

<p>"I now look forward to Wimbledon," added Djokovic where he will look to equal Federer's record of eight titles.</p>

<p>Djokovic's coach Goran Ivanisevic hailed the Serbian star for being able to install special "software" every time a Grand Slam tournament rolls around.</p>

<p>"It's fascinating to see, because sometimes you think, okay, now you have 23. But he's gonna find, again, some kind of motivation to win 24, maybe 25, who knows where is the end," said Ivanisevic.</p>

<h2>'Not an easy guy'</h2>

<p>"He's keeping his body great, he's in great shape. He's unbelievable, and he's still moving like a cat on the court. He's there, like a Ninja."</p>

<p>However, the former Wimbledon winner admitted Djokovic is "not an easy guy" such is his intensity to make history.</p>

<p>"Especially when something's not going his way. But we are here to put our back and to get beaten, we are here for him to feel better, for him to perform better.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Sometimes not easy. Sometimes it's very complicated. But overall, this is for what you live, you know, the tournaments like this, the finishing like this."</p>

<p>Djokovic arrived in Paris having endured a mediocre clay court season, failing to get beyond the quarter-finals of any of the three events he played.</p>

<p>There was the added worry of the recurrence of a longstanding wrist injury.</p>

<p>"The day we arrived here, he was better, he was more motivated, he was more hungry. Every day he played better and better," said Ivanisevic who believes Djokovic's victory over world number one Carlos Alcaraz in the semi-finals was key in his title push.</p>

<p>"I thought against Alcaraz one-and-a-half hours he played unbelievable smart and unbelievable tennis," said Ivanisevic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"And today he just finish what we started actually in Monte Carlo, to practise, and now it's payday. We cash the cheque."</p>

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Novak Djokovic insists it is "disrespectful" to hail him as the greatest player of all time after clinching a record-breaking 23rd men's Grand Slam title on Sunday.

Novak Djokovic insists it is "disrespectful" to hail him as the greatest player of all time after clinching a record-breaking 23rd men's Grand Slam title on Sunday. 36-year-old Djokovic defeated Casper Ruud in straight sets in the French Open final, breaking the tie of 22 majors he shared with longtime rival Rafael Nadal. A third Roland Garros title added to his 10 Australian Open trophies, seven Wimbledons and three at the US Open. Also Read: Novak Djokovic beats Casper Ruud to claim historic 23rd Grand Slam title He is the only man to win all four Slams on at least three occasions and on Monday he will return to the world number one ranking and start a 388th week on top of the pile. "I don't want to say that I am the greatest, because I feel it's disrespectful towards all the great champions in different eras of our sport that was played in completely different way than it is played today," said Djokovic. "So I leave those kind of discussions of who is the greatest to someone else. I have of course huge faith and confidence and belief in myself and for everything that I am and who I am and what I am capable of doing." However, despite becoming the oldest ever French Open champion, he warned he is far from finished. When asked if he could win 24 or 25 majors, he replied: "Why not?" Eleven of his Grand Slam titles have been secured since he turned 30. Retirement is a long way off for a man who has already seen Roger Federer hang up his racquet with 20 majors to his name while 37-year-old Nadal, sitting out the rest of the season with injury, has already said 2024 will be his last as a professional. "Of course the journey is still not over," said Djokovic. "I feel if I'm winning Slams, why even think about ending the career that already has been going on for 20 years. "So I still feel motivated, I still feel inspired to play the best tennis in these tournaments. Those are the ones that count I guess the most in history of our sport. "I now look forward to Wimbledon," added Djokovic where he will look to equal Federer's record of eight titles. Djokovic's coach Goran Ivanisevic hailed the Serbian star for being able to install special "software" every time a Grand Slam tournament rolls around. "It's fascinating to see, because sometimes you think, okay, now you have 23. But he's gonna find, again, some kind of motivation to win 24, maybe 25, who knows where is the end," said Ivanisevic. 'Not an easy guy' "He's keeping his body great, he's in great shape. He's unbelievable, and he's still moving like a cat on the court. He's there, like a Ninja." However, the former Wimbledon winner admitted Djokovic is "not an easy guy" such is his intensity to make history. "Especially when something's not going his way. But we are here to put our back and to get beaten, we are here for him to feel better, for him to perform better. "Sometimes not easy. Sometimes it's very complicated. But overall, this is for what you live, you know, the tournaments like this, the finishing like this." Djokovic arrived in Paris having endured a mediocre clay court season, failing to get beyond the quarter-finals of any of the three events he played. There was the added worry of the recurrence of a longstanding wrist injury. "The day we arrived here, he was better, he was more motivated, he was more hungry. Every day he played better and better," said Ivanisevic who believes Djokovic's victory over world number one Carlos Alcaraz in the semi-finals was key in his title push. "I thought against Alcaraz one-and-a-half hours he played unbelievable smart and unbelievable tennis," said Ivanisevic. "And today he just finish what we started actually in Monte Carlo, to practise, and now it's payday. We cash the cheque." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'It feels disrespectful,' says Djokovic on being called greatest after winning 23rd grand slam title

An unstoppable Novak Djokovic roared to a record 23rd Grand Slam singles title at the French Open on Sunday to stand alone at the summit of men's tennis with a 7-6(1) 6-3 7-5 victory over fourth seed Casper Ruud in the final.

French Open 2023: Novak Djokovic, crowned undisputed king of tennis

<p>Iga Swiatek battled past Karolina Muchova 6-2, 5-7, 6-4 to win her third French Open title on Saturday and become the first woman to successfully defend the Roland Garros title since 2007. The 22-year-old Swiatek is just the third woman in the Open era to win each of her first four Grand Slam finals, the Pole adding to her 2020 and 2022 titles in Paris and last year's US Open triumph.</p>

<p>Monica Seles and Naomi Osaka are the only other players to accomplish the feat.</p>

<p>Swiatek, the world number one from Poland, is also the youngest woman to claim back-to-back French Open titles since Monica Seles in the early 1990s. Justine Henin was the last woman to win successive Roland Garros crowns when she captured her third in a row and fourth in total 16 years ago.</p>

<p>Swiatek's latest coronation caps another dominant two weeks on the clay in Paris, where her record stands at 28 wins and two losses in five visits.</p>

<p>Muchova, at 43 in the world, was the fourth lowest ranked woman to reach the French Open final, her first championship match at a major.</p>

<p>Swiatek, then just 19, was ranked 54 when she lifted her first trophy -- three years after Jelena Ostapenko's shock triumph. Muchova's compatriot Renata Tomanova was runner-up in 1976.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-final-2023-when-and-where-to-watch-manchester-city-vs-inter-milan-live-streaming-details-602938">Champions League Final 2023: When and where to watch Manchester City vs Inter Milan, Live Streaming details</a></p>

<p>However, the unseeded Czech had won all five matches in her career against players in the top three -- four of them at Grand Slams -- having stunned Aryna Sabalenka in the semi-finals.</p>

<p>On guard against an underdog with a habit of taking those down at the top, Swiatek quickly applied pressure on the 26-year-old Muchova.</p>

<p>A miscued forehand from Muchova gave the Pole two break points in the second game which she took with minimal fuss.</p>

<p>The top seed consolidated with a quick hold before Muchova got on the board in game four, drawing loud roars from the Court Philippe Chatrier crowd.</p>

<p>Muchova carved out a break opportunity to get back on serve but Swiatek snuffed it out in a protracted fifth game -- pumping her fist in relief as she surged 4-1 up.</p>

<p>Swiatek saw another break point come and go the following game, but her disappointment was brief as she easily won the next two games to wrap up the opening set.</p>

<h2>- Back and forth -</h2>

<p>Muchova had outfoxed her rivals with her cunning variety throughout the tournament, but Swiatek had clearly done her homework since the Czech won their only other meeting in Prague in 2019. A loose service game allowed Swiatek to pull 3-0 in front in the second set, but Muchova refused to roll over, displaying the grit and resolve she used to rally from match point down against Sabalenka in the previous round.</p>

<p>A crunching forehand down the line retrieved the break before Muchova levelled at three games each.</p>

<p>Swiatek slowed Muchova's momentum as the pair traded holds before the reigning champion showed her first real sign of nerves, double-faulting to leave her rival serving at 5-4 to force a decider.</p>

<p>Muchova couldn't take advantage as Swiatek broke right back, but another shaky game from the Pole presented her with another shot.</p>

<p>Two set points passed Muchova by but she set up a third with a brilliant backhand volley on the stretch, with Swiatek then pumping her return long to send the match to a third set.</p>

<p>Muchova sensed the tide was turning in her favour as Swiatek's title defence began to creak, the Pole broken to love as her opponent rattled off eight straight points to move 2-0 ahead.</p>

<p>But with her formidable record at Roland Garros, Swiatek came storming back and snatched three games on the bounce.</p>

<p>Muchova broke for 4-3 only for Swiatek to hit back immediately and then secure a nervy hold, resisting another break point, to move within a game of victory.</p>

<p>Swiatek swiftly raced 30-0 ahead and earned two championship points when Muchova dragged a forehand wide, the Czech succumbing in the most brutal of ways with a double fault to end a thrilling contest.</p>

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Iga Swiatek battled past Karolina Muchova 6-2, 5-7, 6-4 to win her third French Open title on Saturday and become the first woman to successfully defend the Roland Garros title since 2007.

Iga Swiatek battled past Karolina Muchova 6-2, 5-7, 6-4 to win her third French Open title on Saturday and become the first woman to successfully defend the Roland Garros title since 2007. The 22-year-old Swiatek is just the third woman in the Open era to win each of her first four Grand Slam finals, the Pole adding to her 2020 and 2022 titles in Paris and last year's US Open triumph. Monica Seles and Naomi Osaka are the only other players to accomplish the feat. Swiatek, the world number one from Poland, is also the youngest woman to claim back-to-back French Open titles since Monica Seles in the early 1990s. Justine Henin was the last woman to win successive Roland Garros crowns when she captured her third in a row and fourth in total 16 years ago. Swiatek's latest coronation caps another dominant two weeks on the clay in Paris, where her record stands at 28 wins and two losses in five visits. Muchova, at 43 in the world, was the fourth lowest ranked woman to reach the French Open final, her first championship match at a major. Swiatek, then just 19, was ranked 54 when she lifted her first trophy -- three years after Jelena Ostapenko's shock triumph. Muchova's compatriot Renata Tomanova was runner-up in 1976. ALSO READ: Champions League Final 2023: When and where to watch Manchester City vs Inter Milan, Live Streaming details However, the unseeded Czech had won all five matches in her career against players in the top three -- four of them at Grand Slams -- having stunned Aryna Sabalenka in the semi-finals. On guard against an underdog with a habit of taking those down at the top, Swiatek quickly applied pressure on the 26-year-old Muchova. A miscued forehand from Muchova gave the Pole two break points in the second game which she took with minimal fuss. The top seed consolidated with a quick hold before Muchova got on the board in game four, drawing loud roars from the Court Philippe Chatrier crowd. Muchova carved out a break opportunity to get back on serve but Swiatek snuffed it out in a protracted fifth game -- pumping her fist in relief as she surged 4-1 up. Swiatek saw another break point come and go the following game, but her disappointment was brief as she easily won the next two games to wrap up the opening set. - Back and forth - Muchova had outfoxed her rivals with her cunning variety throughout the tournament, but Swiatek had clearly done her homework since the Czech won their only other meeting in Prague in 2019. A loose service game allowed Swiatek to pull 3-0 in front in the second set, but Muchova refused to roll over, displaying the grit and resolve she used to rally from match point down against Sabalenka in the previous round. A crunching forehand down the line retrieved the break before Muchova levelled at three games each. Swiatek slowed Muchova's momentum as the pair traded holds before the reigning champion showed her first real sign of nerves, double-faulting to leave her rival serving at 5-4 to force a decider. Muchova couldn't take advantage as Swiatek broke right back, but another shaky game from the Pole presented her with another shot. Two set points passed Muchova by but she set up a third with a brilliant backhand volley on the stretch, with Swiatek then pumping her return long to send the match to a third set. Muchova sensed the tide was turning in her favour as Swiatek's title defence began to creak, the Pole broken to love as her opponent rattled off eight straight points to move 2-0 ahead. But with her formidable record at Roland Garros, Swiatek came storming back and snatched three games on the bounce. Muchova broke for 4-3 only for Swiatek to hit back immediately and then secure a nervy hold, resisting another break point, to move within a game of victory. Swiatek swiftly raced 30-0 ahead and earned two championship points when Muchova dragged a forehand wide, the Czech succumbing in the most brutal of ways with a double fault to end a thrilling contest. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

French Open 2023: Iga Swiatek beats Karolina Muchova to win women's singles title

<p>Stefanos Tsitsipas pledged Tuesday to cut out "naps and melatonin" after admitting virtually sleepwalking into a French Open defeat by Carlos Alcaraz.</p>

<p>The world number five from Greece slumped to a 6-2, 6-1, 7-6 (7/5) loss against top seed Alcaraz in a disappointing quarter-final.</p>

<p>"One thing that I'm going to try to avoid in the future is have melatonin pills and naps before matches because it clearly doesn't seem to be working," said Tsitsipas of his pre-match routine.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-novak-djokovic-books-semifinal-berth-after-dominant-win-against-khachanov-likely-to-face-alcaraz-601423">Novak Djokovic books semifinal berth after dominant win against Khachanov</a></p>

<p>Melatonin in tablet form is often taken to treat sleep disorders.</p>

<p>Tsitsipas, the runner-up to Novak Djokovic in Paris in 2021, only woke up to the task at hand in the eighth game of the third set on Tuesday.</p>

<p>He saved two match points and then another in the 10th game as he pulled back from 2-5 down to 5-5 before Alcaraz eased through the tiebreak.</p>

<p>It was the 20-year-old Spaniard's fifth win in as many meetings with Tsitsipas.</p>

<p>"The schedule has been a little bit difficult the last few days. I had some late-night sessions. Not super late, but late enough for me to kind of have my sleep schedule ruined," added Tsitsipas.</p>

<p>He recalled a 6-1, 6-2 loss to Djokovic at the Paris Masters in 2019 when the match played out in the same way after he had had tried to catch up on sleep.</p>

<p>"I feel like melatonin really likes 1 and 2," he said, referring to the set outcomes.</p>

<p>"It wasn't really that much fun out there in the first two sets. I felt completely off, kind of like sleeping in a way. I just wish it never happens again. It sucks."</p>

<p>Despite his defeat, Tsitsipas hailed US Open champion Alcaraz, who will face 22-time major winner Djokovic in a blockbuster semi-final on Friday.</p>

<p>However, the 24-year-old Greek said he found it impossible to pick a winner.</p>

<p>"One has experience; the other one has legs and moves like Speedy Gonzalez," he explained.</p>

<p>"One can hit huge, super big shots; and the other one prefers control over anything else, probably control and precision, to apply pressure and just make the opponent move as much as possible."</p>

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Stefanos Tsitsipas pledged Tuesday to cut out "naps and melatonin" after admitting virtually sleepwalking into a French Open defeat by Carlos Alcaraz. The world number five from Greece slumped to a 6-2, 6-1, 7-6 (7/5) loss against top seed Alcaraz in a disappointing quarter-final.

Stefanos Tsitsipas pledged Tuesday to cut out "naps and melatonin" after admitting virtually sleepwalking into a French Open defeat by Carlos Alcaraz. The world number five from Greece slumped to a 6-2, 6-1, 7-6 (7/5) loss against top seed Alcaraz in a disappointing quarter-final. "One thing that I'm going to try to avoid in the future is have melatonin pills and naps before matches because it clearly doesn't seem to be working," said Tsitsipas of his pre-match routine. Also Read: Novak Djokovic books semifinal berth after dominant win against Khachanov Melatonin in tablet form is often taken to treat sleep disorders. Tsitsipas, the runner-up to Novak Djokovic in Paris in 2021, only woke up to the task at hand in the eighth game of the third set on Tuesday. He saved two match points and then another in the 10th game as he pulled back from 2-5 down to 5-5 before Alcaraz eased through the tiebreak. It was the 20-year-old Spaniard's fifth win in as many meetings with Tsitsipas. "The schedule has been a little bit difficult the last few days. I had some late-night sessions. Not super late, but late enough for me to kind of have my sleep schedule ruined," added Tsitsipas. He recalled a 6-1, 6-2 loss to Djokovic at the Paris Masters in 2019 when the match played out in the same way after he had had tried to catch up on sleep. "I feel like melatonin really likes 1 and 2," he said, referring to the set outcomes. "It wasn't really that much fun out there in the first two sets. I felt completely off, kind of like sleeping in a way. I just wish it never happens again. It sucks." Despite his defeat, Tsitsipas hailed US Open champion Alcaraz, who will face 22-time major winner Djokovic in a blockbuster semi-final on Friday. However, the 24-year-old Greek said he found it impossible to pick a winner. "One has experience; the other one has legs and moves like Speedy Gonzalez," he explained. "One can hit huge, super big shots; and the other one prefers control over anything else, probably control and precision, to apply pressure and just make the opponent move as much as possible." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

French Open: Stefanos Tsitsipas vows to cut ‘naps and melatonin’ after exit

<p>The French Open 2023 is living up to expectations. As we have entered the final week, there are a plethora of big-ticket games lined-up. French Open 2021 runners-up Stefanos Tsitsipas has progressed into the last eight and is set to lock horns with current world number one Carlos Alcaraz, which promises to be an enthralling battle between the two youngsters.</p>

<p>Ahead of the battle, Tsitsipas spoke at length about the upcoming quarter-final face-off. It is to be noted that Alcaraz&nbsp;holds an impressive 4-0 ATP head-to-head record against the Greek player.&nbsp;However, the 24-year-old is up for the challenge this time around.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The clash we've all been waiting for," said&nbsp;Tsitsipas during his press conference after a dominant straight-set&nbsp;win over Sebastian Ofner. On being asked to elaborate, Tsitsipas added: "I think I said everything I had to say. I think everyone was expecting it, weren't they? And it's here. It's game on."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-world-number-seven-ons-jabeur-swats-aside-bernanda-pera-to-enter-french-open-quarter-finals-600844">Tennis: World number seven Ons Jabeur swats aside Bernanda Pera to enter French Open quarter-finals</a></strong></p>

<p>Since their first-ever meeting, Alcaraz has continued to climb up the ladder whereas Tsitsipas is still searching for his maiden Grand Slam title. The two locked horns in the 2021&nbsp;US Open where the Spaniard defeated Tsitsipas to become the first man&nbsp;to brush aside&nbsp;a top-three-ranked player in singles at the tournament since the inception of the ATP rankings in 1973.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both Alcaraz and Tsitsipas have contrasting playing styles. The contest promises to be an engaging battle as the race for the title has intensified. Novak Djokovic, another strong contender, will also be in action on Tuesday (June 06), before the Alcaraz-Tsitsipas face-off, as he is up against Russia's&nbsp;Karen Khachanov in the quarters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Alcaraz and Tsitsipas will come face-to-face later in the day.</p>

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The French Open 2023 is living up to expectations. As we have entered the final week, there are a plethora of big-ticket games lined-up. French Open 2021 runners-up Stefanos Tsitsipas has progressed into the last eight and is set to lock horns with current world number one Carlos Alcaraz, which promises to be an enthralling battle between the two youngsters.

The French Open 2023 is living up to expectations. As we have entered the final week, there are a plethora of big-ticket games lined-up. French Open 2021 runners-up Stefanos Tsitsipas has progressed into the last eight and is set to lock horns with current world number one Carlos Alcaraz, which promises to be an enthralling battle between the two youngsters. Ahead of the battle, Tsitsipas spoke at length about the upcoming quarter-final face-off. It is to be noted that Alcaraz holds an impressive 4-0 ATP head-to-head record against the Greek player. However, the 24-year-old is up for the challenge this time around. "The clash we've all been waiting for," said Tsitsipas during his press conference after a dominant straight-set win over Sebastian Ofner. On being asked to elaborate, Tsitsipas added: "I think I said everything I had to say. I think everyone was expecting it, weren't they? And it's here. It's game on." Also Read: Tennis: World number seven Ons Jabeur swats aside Bernanda Pera to enter French Open quarter-finals Since their first-ever meeting, Alcaraz has continued to climb up the ladder whereas Tsitsipas is still searching for his maiden Grand Slam title. The two locked horns in the 2021 US Open where the Spaniard defeated Tsitsipas to become the first man to brush aside a top-three-ranked player in singles at the tournament since the inception of the ATP rankings in 1973. Both Alcaraz and Tsitsipas have contrasting playing styles. The contest promises to be an engaging battle as the race for the title has intensified. Novak Djokovic, another strong contender, will also be in action on Tuesday (June 06), before the Alcaraz-Tsitsipas face-off, as he is up against Russia's Karen Khachanov in the quarters. Alcaraz and Tsitsipas will come face-to-face later in the day. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Tennis: 'Clash we have all been waiting for' - Tsitsipas geared up for Alcaraz face-off in French Open QFs

<p>Ons Jabeur was a woman in a hurry at the French Open on Monday, as the seventh seed eased into the Roland Garros quarter-finals for the first time with a 6-3 6-1 win over American Bernarda Pera in bright sunshine. Jabeur's season has steadily gathered steam in Paris after the Tunisian world number seven had minor knee surgery earlier in the year and skipped the Madrid Open due to a calf problem following her run to the Charleston crown.</p>

<p>The 28-year-old breezed to a 4-1 lead in the opening set even as many Court Philippe Chatrier ticket-holders were making their way past the turnstiles and closed it out in 35 minutes with her fifth break of serve. Pera beat Jabeur in their last meeting on the hardcourts of Guangzhou in 2019 but the left-hander struggled to cope with her tricky opponent's clay prowess and did not help her own cause with errors in her maiden last 16 appearance in a Grand Slam.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-2023-pair-of-miyu-kato-aldila-sutjiadi-got-disqualified-after-ballgirl-got-hit-during-the-match-600440">French Open 2023: Miyu Kato, Aldila Sutjiadi disqualified after accidently hitting ballgirl during match</a></strong></p>

<p>Jabeur tightened her grip on the contest by blending power, precision and guile in the next set to close out the victory in just over an hour.</p>

<p>The Tunisian, who is eyeing a first Grand Slam title after falling short in the Wimbledon and U.S. Open finals last year, will take on Sara Sorribes Tormo or 14th seed Beatriz Haddad Maia who face off later in the day.</p>


Ons Jabeur was a woman in a hurry at the French Open on Monday, as the seventh seed eased into the Roland Garros quarter-finals for the first time with a 6-3 6-1 win over American Bernarda Pera in bright sunshine.

Ons Jabeur was a woman in a hurry at the French Open on Monday, as the seventh seed eased into the Roland Garros quarter-finals for the first time with a 6-3 6-1 win over American Bernarda Pera in bright sunshine. Jabeur's season has steadily gathered steam in Paris after the Tunisian world number seven had minor knee surgery earlier in the year and skipped the Madrid Open due to a calf problem following her run to the Charleston crown. The 28-year-old breezed to a 4-1 lead in the opening set even as many Court Philippe Chatrier ticket-holders were making their way past the turnstiles and closed it out in 35 minutes with her fifth break of serve. Pera beat Jabeur in their last meeting on the hardcourts of Guangzhou in 2019 but the left-hander struggled to cope with her tricky opponent's clay prowess and did not help her own cause with errors in her maiden last 16 appearance in a Grand Slam. Also Read: French Open 2023: Miyu Kato, Aldila Sutjiadi disqualified after accidently hitting ballgirl during match Jabeur tightened her grip on the contest by blending power, precision and guile in the next set to close out the victory in just over an hour. The Tunisian, who is eyeing a first Grand Slam title after falling short in the Wimbledon and U.S. Open finals last year, will take on Sara Sorribes Tormo or 14th seed Beatriz Haddad Maia who face off later in the day.

Tennis: World number seven Ons Jabeur swats aside Bernanda Pera to enter French Open quarter-finals

<p>World number one and defending champion Iga Swiatek took just 51 minutes to reach the French Open fourth round on Saturday as Coco Gauff ended 16-year-old Mirra Andreeva's memorable Paris debut.</p>

<p>Swiatek blitzed 80th-ranked Wang Xinyu of China 6-0, 6-0 on the back of 21 winners as the 22-year-old Pole took another step closer to becoming the first woman since Justine Henin in 2007 to win back-to-back titles at Roland Garros.</p>

<p>Of the six sets she has played so far, four have been to love. In all she has dropped just eight games through three rounds.</p>

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<p>"It was a really solid performance from me. It's not easy to stay disciplined and keep your focus," said Swiatek, who also won the title in 2020.</p>

<p>Swiatek will face Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko, who breezed past 2019 US Open champion Bianca Andreescu for the loss of just two games, for a quarter-final berth.</p>

<p>Her path to the final was made easier earlier Saturday by the withdrawal of Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina, a possible last-four opponent, due to illness.</p>

<p>Rybakina had been due to face Sara Sorribes Tormo of Spain in the opening match on Court Philippe Chatrier but said she was suffering with a fever.</p>

<h2>Rybakina out</h2>

<p>"I had fever and a headache and it's difficult to breathe. I tried to play in the warm-up but I feel it's the right decision to withdraw," said the 23-year-old Kazakh.</p>

<p>Sorribes Tormo, ranked 132 in the world, will face Beatriz Haddad Maia, the first Brazilian to make the last 16 in Paris since 1979, for a place in the last eight.</p>

<p>World number six Gauff, the runner-up to Swiatek last year, came back from a set down to defeat Andreeva 6-7 (5/7), 6-1, 6-1.</p>

<p>Andreeva, ranked a lowly 143, had come through qualifying and was the youngest player to make the third round since 2005.</p>

<p>"Mirra is super young and has a big future," said 19-year-old Gauff who will face Anna Karolina Schmiedlova of Slovakia for a quarter-finals spot.</p>

<p>Andreeva was fortunate to avoid a default for petulantly hitting a ball into the Court Suzanne Lenglen crowd during the first set.</p>

<p>"Right after I thought that it was a really stupid move from me," she admitted.</p>

<p>Seventh-ranked Ons Jabeur made sure five of the top seeds reached the last 16 by defeating Serbian qualifier Olga Danilovic 4-6, 6-4, 6-2.</p>

<p>World number four Casper Ruud, the runner-up to Rafael Nadal in 2022, dropped the first set before easing to a 4-6, 6-4, 6-1, 6-4 win against China's Zhang Zhizhen.</p>

<p>The 26-year-old Zhang was bidding to become the first Chinese man since 1936 to reach the fourth round.</p>

<h2>South American push</h2>

<p>Ruud will next face in-form Nicolas Jarry after the Chilean edged out Marcos Giron of the United States 6-2, 6-3, 6-7 (7/9), 6-3.</p>

<p>Jarry arrived in Paris having claimed the Geneva clay court title and will be making a maiden appearance in the last 16 of a major.</p>

<p>Also featuring in the second week for the first time will be 49th-ranked Tomas Martin Etcheverry of Argentina who stunned 15th seed Borna Coric 6-3, 7-6 (7/5), 6-2.</p>

<p>Etcheverry will next face Japanese 27th seed Yoshihito Nishioka who edged a dramatic five-set battle with qualifier Thiago Seyboth Wild to reach the fourth round for the first time.</p>

<p>Nishioka battled back to win 3-6, 7-6 (10/8), 2-6, 6-4, 6-0 against the Brazilian who had knocked out world number two Daniil Medvedev in the first round.</p>

<p>Francisco Cerundolo of Argentina joined the list of South American first-timers in the second week by seeing off US ninth seed Taylor Fritz 3-6, 6-3, 6-4, 7-5.</p>

<p>Cerundolo next meets Danish world number six and 2022 quarter-finalist Holger Rune who eased past 231st-ranked Argentinian qualifier Genaro Alberto Olivieri 6-4, 6-1, 6-3.</p>

<p>Daniel Altmaier, who won the fifth longest match in French Open history in the last round, succumbed in straight sets to Grigor Dimitrov.</p>

<p>The Bulgarian will next face Alexander Zverev who edged out Frances Tiafoe of the United States 3-6, 7-6 (7/3), 6-1, 7-6 (7/5).</p>

<p>Zverev suffered ankle ligament damage in a semi-final loss to Nadal in 2022 which ended his season.</p>

<p>"It's been the hardest year of my life," said German 22nd seed Zverev. "I'm so happy to be back."<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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World number one and defending champion Iga Swiatek took just 51 minutes to reach the French Open fourth round on Saturday as Coco Gauff ended 16-year-old Mirra Andreeva's memorable Paris debut.

World number one and defending champion Iga Swiatek took just 51 minutes to reach the French Open fourth round on Saturday as Coco Gauff ended 16-year-old Mirra Andreeva's memorable Paris debut. Swiatek blitzed 80th-ranked Wang Xinyu of China 6-0, 6-0 on the back of 21 winners as the 22-year-old Pole took another step closer to becoming the first woman since Justine Henin in 2007 to win back-to-back titles at Roland Garros. Of the six sets she has played so far, four have been to love. In all she has dropped just eight games through three rounds. Also Read: Manchester City inch one step closer to completing a treble after 2-1 win over United in FA Cup Final "It was a really solid performance from me. It's not easy to stay disciplined and keep your focus," said Swiatek, who also won the title in 2020. Swiatek will face Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko, who breezed past 2019 US Open champion Bianca Andreescu for the loss of just two games, for a quarter-final berth. Her path to the final was made easier earlier Saturday by the withdrawal of Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina, a possible last-four opponent, due to illness. Rybakina had been due to face Sara Sorribes Tormo of Spain in the opening match on Court Philippe Chatrier but said she was suffering with a fever. Rybakina out "I had fever and a headache and it's difficult to breathe. I tried to play in the warm-up but I feel it's the right decision to withdraw," said the 23-year-old Kazakh. Sorribes Tormo, ranked 132 in the world, will face Beatriz Haddad Maia, the first Brazilian to make the last 16 in Paris since 1979, for a place in the last eight. World number six Gauff, the runner-up to Swiatek last year, came back from a set down to defeat Andreeva 6-7 (5/7), 6-1, 6-1. Andreeva, ranked a lowly 143, had come through qualifying and was the youngest player to make the third round since 2005. "Mirra is super young and has a big future," said 19-year-old Gauff who will face Anna Karolina Schmiedlova of Slovakia for a quarter-finals spot. Andreeva was fortunate to avoid a default for petulantly hitting a ball into the Court Suzanne Lenglen crowd during the first set. "Right after I thought that it was a really stupid move from me," she admitted. Seventh-ranked Ons Jabeur made sure five of the top seeds reached the last 16 by defeating Serbian qualifier Olga Danilovic 4-6, 6-4, 6-2. World number four Casper Ruud, the runner-up to Rafael Nadal in 2022, dropped the first set before easing to a 4-6, 6-4, 6-1, 6-4 win against China's Zhang Zhizhen. The 26-year-old Zhang was bidding to become the first Chinese man since 1936 to reach the fourth round. South American push Ruud will next face in-form Nicolas Jarry after the Chilean edged out Marcos Giron of the United States 6-2, 6-3, 6-7 (7/9), 6-3. Jarry arrived in Paris having claimed the Geneva clay court title and will be making a maiden appearance in the last 16 of a major. Also featuring in the second week for the first time will be 49th-ranked Tomas Martin Etcheverry of Argentina who stunned 15th seed Borna Coric 6-3, 7-6 (7/5), 6-2. Etcheverry will next face Japanese 27th seed Yoshihito Nishioka who edged a dramatic five-set battle with qualifier Thiago Seyboth Wild to reach the fourth round for the first time. Nishioka battled back to win 3-6, 7-6 (10/8), 2-6, 6-4, 6-0 against the Brazilian who had knocked out world number two Daniil Medvedev in the first round. Francisco Cerundolo of Argentina joined the list of South American first-timers in the second week by seeing off US ninth seed Taylor Fritz 3-6, 6-3, 6-4, 7-5. Cerundolo next meets Danish world number six and 2022 quarter-finalist Holger Rune who eased past 231st-ranked Argentinian qualifier Genaro Alberto Olivieri 6-4, 6-1, 6-3. Daniel Altmaier, who won the fifth longest match in French Open history in the last round, succumbed in straight sets to Grigor Dimitrov. The Bulgarian will next face Alexander Zverev who edged out Frances Tiafoe of the United States 3-6, 7-6 (7/3), 6-1, 7-6 (7/5). Zverev suffered ankle ligament damage in a semi-final loss to Nadal in 2022 which ended his season. "It's been the hardest year of my life," said German 22nd seed Zverev. "I'm so happy to be back." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

French Open: Iga Swiatek serves double bagel in 51-minute blitz vs Wang Xinyu

<p>China returns to the Women's Tennis Association autumn calendar after a four-year absence with seven tournaments in the mainland and Hong Kong confirmed on Friday.</p>

<p>With the exception of last year's Beijing Winter Olympics, which took place in a "bubble", most global sport halted in China after the Covid-19 pandemic emerged there in late 2019.</p>

<p>The WTA had also suspended events in China for 16 months until last April in the wake of a sexual assault claim by Chinese tennis player Peng Shuai.</p>

<p>On Friday, the WTA announced the 2023 autumn calendar "outlining the tournaments that will take place following the US Open through to the WTA Finals" which takes place in the Chinese city of Shenzhen from October 30.</p>

<p>The Guangzhou event will be the first tournament in China starting the week of September 18.</p>

<p>It will be followed by Ningbo from September 25 with the China Open in Beijing from October 2, which is one of two WTA 1000 events scheduled along with Guadalajara from September 18.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-against-india-is-our-grand-finale-ahead-of-ashes-2023-says-australian-spinner-nathan-lyon-599610">WTC final against India is our grand-finale ahead of Ashes 2023, says Australian spinner Nathan Lyon</a></p>

<p>Zhengzhou will be included in WTA 500 events from October 9 along with San Diego and Tokyo, which both take place in September.</p>

<p>Guangzhou (September 18), Ningbo (September 25), Hong Kong (October 9) and Nanchang (October 16) are among WTA 250 tournaments, along with Osaka, Seoul and Monastir.</p>

<p>In addition the WTA Elite Trophy second-tier tournament takes place in Zhuhai in China from October 23.</p>

<p>The WTA said that along with the tournaments confirmed on Friday "continual expansion of WTA 125 events across several continents with an updated schedule released in the coming weeks".</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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China returns to the Women's Tennis Association autumn calendar after a four-year absence with seven tournaments in the mainland and Hong Kong confirmed on Friday.

China returns to the Women's Tennis Association autumn calendar after a four-year absence with seven tournaments in the mainland and Hong Kong confirmed on Friday. With the exception of last year's Beijing Winter Olympics, which took place in a "bubble", most global sport halted in China after the Covid-19 pandemic emerged there in late 2019. The WTA had also suspended events in China for 16 months until last April in the wake of a sexual assault claim by Chinese tennis player Peng Shuai. On Friday, the WTA announced the 2023 autumn calendar "outlining the tournaments that will take place following the US Open through to the WTA Finals" which takes place in the Chinese city of Shenzhen from October 30. The Guangzhou event will be the first tournament in China starting the week of September 18. It will be followed by Ningbo from September 25 with the China Open in Beijing from October 2, which is one of two WTA 1000 events scheduled along with Guadalajara from September 18. ALSO READ | WTC final against India is our grand-finale ahead of Ashes 2023, says Australian spinner Nathan Lyon Zhengzhou will be included in WTA 500 events from October 9 along with San Diego and Tokyo, which both take place in September. Guangzhou (September 18), Ningbo (September 25), Hong Kong (October 9) and Nanchang (October 16) are among WTA 250 tournaments, along with Osaka, Seoul and Monastir. In addition the WTA Elite Trophy second-tier tournament takes place in Zhuhai in China from October 23. The WTA said that along with the tournaments confirmed on Friday "continual expansion of WTA 125 events across several continents with an updated schedule released in the coming weeks". WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China returns to WTA calendar in autumn after four years

<p>Coco Gauff came back from a set down to end 16-year-old Mirra Andreeva's magical French Open debut on Saturday to reach the last 16.</p>

<p>World number six Gauff, the runner-up to Iga Swiatek in 2022, won 6-7 (5/7), 6-1, 6-1 against her 143rd-ranked opponent who came through qualifying and was the youngest player to make the third round since 2005.</p>

<p>Gauff, 19, will face either fellow American Kayla Day or Anna Karolina Schmiedlova of Slovakia for a place in the quarter-finals.</p>

<p>"Mirra is super young and has a big future," said Gauff.</p>

<p>"I remember I played here when I was 16 so she has a lot to look forward to. I'm sure you'll see a lot more matches between us."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-england-name-16-man-squad-for-first-two-tests-james-anderson-included-600149">Ashes 2023: England name 16-man squad for first two Tests, James Anderson included</a></p>

<p>Gauff said that despite her first set problems, she was confident she could pull through.</p>

<p>"I was a little undisciplined in the tiebreak but I knew what the game plan was so I just tried to execute that in the second and third sets.</p>

<p>"But Mirra proved she belongs where she is and deserves to go further."</p>

<p>Andreeva led 3-1 and 4-2 in the opener but was twice pinned back by her American opponent.</p>

<p>Gauff then served for the set in the 10th game but her fifth double fault allowed the Russian to level.</p>

<p>Andreeva took the set on a tiebreak after an hour with a sweeping, running forehand but collected a code violation on the way for petulantly swiping a ball into the Court Suzanne Lenglen crowd.</p>

<p>Gauff was comfortably the more aggressive and composed player in the second set, stretching out to a 5-1 lead on the back of a double break on her way to levelling the tie.</p>

<p>The American secured it in style with her first ace of the contest.</p>

<p>She also slashed her unforced error count to just three in the set compared to Andreeva's 11.</p>

<p>Gauff maintained her dominance in the decider as Andreeva finally ran out of steam after a sixth match in Paris.</p>

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Coco Gauff came back from a set down to end 16-year-old Mirra Andreeva's magical French Open debut on Saturday to reach the last 16. World number six Gauff, the runner-up to Iga Swiatek in 2022, won 6-7 (5/7), 6-1, 6-1 against her 143rd-ranked opponent who came through qualifying and was the youngest player to make the third round since 2005.

Coco Gauff came back from a set down to end 16-year-old Mirra Andreeva's magical French Open debut on Saturday to reach the last 16. World number six Gauff, the runner-up to Iga Swiatek in 2022, won 6-7 (5/7), 6-1, 6-1 against her 143rd-ranked opponent who came through qualifying and was the youngest player to make the third round since 2005. Gauff, 19, will face either fellow American Kayla Day or Anna Karolina Schmiedlova of Slovakia for a place in the quarter-finals. "Mirra is super young and has a big future," said Gauff. "I remember I played here when I was 16 so she has a lot to look forward to. I'm sure you'll see a lot more matches between us." Also Read: Ashes 2023: England name 16-man squad for first two Tests, James Anderson included Gauff said that despite her first set problems, she was confident she could pull through. "I was a little undisciplined in the tiebreak but I knew what the game plan was so I just tried to execute that in the second and third sets. "But Mirra proved she belongs where she is and deserves to go further." Andreeva led 3-1 and 4-2 in the opener but was twice pinned back by her American opponent. Gauff then served for the set in the 10th game but her fifth double fault allowed the Russian to level. Andreeva took the set on a tiebreak after an hour with a sweeping, running forehand but collected a code violation on the way for petulantly swiping a ball into the Court Suzanne Lenglen crowd. Gauff was comfortably the more aggressive and composed player in the second set, stretching out to a 5-1 lead on the back of a double break on her way to levelling the tie. The American secured it in style with her first ace of the contest. She also slashed her unforced error count to just three in the set compared to Andreeva's 11. Gauff maintained her dominance in the decider as Andreeva finally ran out of steam after a sixth match in Paris. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

French Open 2023: Coco Gauff puts end to 16-year-old Andreeva's campaign

<p>World number four Elena Rybakina withdrew from the French Open on Saturday due to illness, handing an unexpected title boost to defending champion Iga Swiatek. Rybakina had been due to face Sara Sorribes Tormo of Spain in the third round in the opening match on Court Philippe Chatrier.</p>

<p>"I was not feeling good yesterday and the day before. I didn't sleep last night," said the 23-year-old Wimbledon champion. "I had fever and a headache and it's difficult to breathe. I tried in the warm-up but I feel it's the right decision to withdraw."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-rafael-nadal-undergoes-surgery-for-injury-which-forced-him-out-of-french-open-600005">Tennis: Rafael Nadal undergoes surgery for injury which forced him out of French Open</a></p>

<p>Rybakina had swept into the last 32 without dropping a set. The Russian-born Kazakh was seen as a potential champion in Paris having arrived at Roland Garros with the prestigious Italian Open clay-court title under her belt. She had been seeded to face two-time champion Swiatek in the semi-finals.</p>

<p>"I guess with my allergy that my immune system just went down and I picked up something," said Rybakina. "The doctor said there's a virus in Paris."</p>

<p>Rybakina said she will focus on recovery ahead of defending her title at Wimbledon which gets underway on July 3.</p>

<p>"The plan was to play Berlin, Eastbourne, and Wimbledon. There are not many tournaments on grass, but the most important thing is to get healthy again."</p>

<p>Sorribes Tormo, ranked 132 in the world, will be playing in the second week of a Grand Slam for the first time.</p>

<p>She will face either Ekaterina Alexandrova of Russia or Beatriz Haddad Maia of Brazil for a place in the quarter-finals.</p>

<p>Later on Saturday, world number one Swiatek takes on China's 80th-ranked Wang Xinyu for a place in the last 16.</p>

<p><em>More to follow..</em></p>

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World number four Elena Rybakina withdrew from the French Open on Saturday due to illness, handing an unexpected title boost to defending champion Iga Swiatek. Rybakina had been due to face Sara Sorribes Tormo of Spain in the third round in the opening match on Court Philippe Chatrier.

World number four Elena Rybakina withdrew from the French Open on Saturday due to illness, handing an unexpected title boost to defending champion Iga Swiatek. Rybakina had been due to face Sara Sorribes Tormo of Spain in the third round in the opening match on Court Philippe Chatrier. "I was not feeling good yesterday and the day before. I didn't sleep last night," said the 23-year-old Wimbledon champion. "I had fever and a headache and it's difficult to breathe. I tried in the warm-up but I feel it's the right decision to withdraw." ALSO READ: Tennis: Rafael Nadal undergoes surgery for injury which forced him out of French Open Rybakina had swept into the last 32 without dropping a set. The Russian-born Kazakh was seen as a potential champion in Paris having arrived at Roland Garros with the prestigious Italian Open clay-court title under her belt. She had been seeded to face two-time champion Swiatek in the semi-finals. "I guess with my allergy that my immune system just went down and I picked up something," said Rybakina. "The doctor said there's a virus in Paris." Rybakina said she will focus on recovery ahead of defending her title at Wimbledon which gets underway on July 3. "The plan was to play Berlin, Eastbourne, and Wimbledon. There are not many tournaments on grass, but the most important thing is to get healthy again." Sorribes Tormo, ranked 132 in the world, will be playing in the second week of a Grand Slam for the first time. She will face either Ekaterina Alexandrova of Russia or Beatriz Haddad Maia of Brazil for a place in the quarter-finals. Later on Saturday, world number one Swiatek takes on China's 80th-ranked Wang Xinyu for a place in the last 16. More to follow.. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

World number four Elena Rybakina pulls out of French Open 2023 due to illness

<p>The French Open 2023 is currently underway and Rafael Nadal is being surely missed. The 14-time Roland Garros winner decided not to play in his favourite slam owing to an injury he had suffered in the Australian Open in January earlier this year.</p>

<p>The Spaniard has now undergone the surgery for the same injury — arthroscopic surgery for injured left hip flexor to be precise — on Friday night, a day before his 37th birthday. Nadal's spokesman Benito Perez-Barbadillo informed about the surgery which took place in Barcelona.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fa-cup-preview-manchester-united-stand-in-way-as-pep-guardiolas-city-chase-historic-treble-599926">FA Cup Final Preview: Manchester United stand in way as Pep Guardiola's City chase historic treble</a></p>

<p>Nadal picked up the injury during his second round loss against Mackenzie McDonald in the Australian Open on January 18 and hasn't played a single game since. The 22-time grand slam winner hoped to recover in time for the Monte Carlos tournament but that couldn't be the case. The Spaniard dropped out of French Open afterwards as he informed about his decision days before the ongoing grand slam.</p>

<p>"The evolution of the injury I sustained in Australia has not gone as I would have liked. I have lost goals along the way, and Roland Garros becomes impossible. At this moment, I won't be able to be at Roland Garros. With what that tournament is for me, you can imagine how difficult it is. I have no intention of continuing to play for the next few months," Nadal had said at the press conference.</p>

<p>He further said that he'd like to play for another year on the professional court but he couldn't say that with 100 per cent surety.</p>

<p>"My intention is for next year to be my last year on the professional tour, I can't say this 100 per cent because you never know what's going to happen," Nadal had added.</p>

<p>Notably, with 22 slams, Nadal is tied with Serbian Novak Djokovic for most grand slam titles among men. Djokovic, however, has the chance to go one up on Nadal if he manages to win French Open 2023 as he has already entered the Round of 16.&nbsp;</p>

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The French Open 2023 is currently underway and Rafael Nadal is being surely missed. The 14-time Roland Garros winner decided not to play in his favourite slam owing to an injury he had suffered in the Australian Open in January earlier this year.

The French Open 2023 is currently underway and Rafael Nadal is being surely missed. The 14-time Roland Garros winner decided not to play in his favourite slam owing to an injury he had suffered in the Australian Open in January earlier this year. The Spaniard has now undergone the surgery for the same injury — arthroscopic surgery for injured left hip flexor to be precise — on Friday night, a day before his 37th birthday. Nadal's spokesman Benito Perez-Barbadillo informed about the surgery which took place in Barcelona. Also Read: FA Cup Final Preview: Manchester United stand in way as Pep Guardiola's City chase historic treble Nadal picked up the injury during his second round loss against Mackenzie McDonald in the Australian Open on January 18 and hasn't played a single game since. The 22-time grand slam winner hoped to recover in time for the Monte Carlos tournament but that couldn't be the case. The Spaniard dropped out of French Open afterwards as he informed about his decision days before the ongoing grand slam. "The evolution of the injury I sustained in Australia has not gone as I would have liked. I have lost goals along the way, and Roland Garros becomes impossible. At this moment, I won't be able to be at Roland Garros. With what that tournament is for me, you can imagine how difficult it is. I have no intention of continuing to play for the next few months," Nadal had said at the press conference. He further said that he'd like to play for another year on the professional court but he couldn't say that with 100 per cent surety. "My intention is for next year to be my last year on the professional tour, I can't say this 100 per cent because you never know what's going to happen," Nadal had added. Notably, with 22 slams, Nadal is tied with Serbian Novak Djokovic for most grand slam titles among men. Djokovic, however, has the chance to go one up on Nadal if he manages to win French Open 2023 as he has already entered the Round of 16. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tennis: Rafael Nadal undergoes surgery for injury which forced him out of French Open

<p>World number three Jessica Pegula's hopes of hoisting her maiden Grand Slam trophy ended in despair on Friday after a 6-1 6-3 defeat by Belgian Elise Mertens in the French Open third round. The 29-year-old Pegula had no answer to Mertens' versatile game. Former doubles world number one Mertens used her complete arsenal of shots, including sliced forehands, drop shots, lobs and deep groundstrokes to move her opponent around and pin her back.</p>

<p>Mertens, ranked 28th, was near flawless at the start, breaking the American twice in a row to race to a 5-0 lead and bag the first set in just 26 minutes. Pegula, who had advanced into the third round after her ailing Italian opponent Camila Giorgi retired after the first set, broke Mertens early in the second but the Belgian responded in the next game.</p>

<p>Pegula earned another rare break point at 3-2 but sunk a three consecutive backhands into the net. The 27-year-old Belgian took advantage of Pegula's low first serve percentage to break her again and move 5-3 clear, leaving the frustrated American to shake her head and look at her coaching box for any help. Her ordeal was over after 82 minutes with her 28th unforced error.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-swiatek-powers-into-round-three-sinner-dumped-out-by-world-no-79-altmaier-599284">French Open: Swiatek powers into round three; Sinner dumped out by world no. 79 Altmaier</a></strong></p>

<p>Aryna Sabalenka wasted no time as she whizzed into the fourth round of the French Open with a 6-2 6-2 drubbing of Kamilla Rakhimova of Russia on Friday. Strong on serve, the world number two broke twice in the opening set and raced to a 3-0 lead in the second on a sunbathed court Philippe Chatrier to set up a meeting with American Sloane Stephens or Yulia Putintseva of Kazakhstan.</p>

<p>Sabalenka, who beat world number one Iga Swiatek in the Madrid Open final last month, has yet to lose a set in the tournament and has now broken her third-round loss streak in Paris. The Belarusian, whose run at Roland Garros was stopped at that stage in the three previous editions, was always in control and despite some minor blips, faced only one break point - which she saved with a second-serve ace.</p>

<p>"It feels amazing to feel the support and just to be on this court and have the opportunity to play&nbsp;tennis," the Australian Open champion said after an encounter that lasted a little over an hour. "Every tournament is different, Roland Garros is especially different from the Australian Open because of the surface but winning gives you confidence."</p>


World number three Jessica Pegula's hopes of hoisting her maiden Grand Slam trophy ended in despair on Friday after a 6-1 6-3 defeat by Belgian Elise Mertens in the French Open third round.

World number three Jessica Pegula's hopes of hoisting her maiden Grand Slam trophy ended in despair on Friday after a 6-1 6-3 defeat by Belgian Elise Mertens in the French Open third round. The 29-year-old Pegula had no answer to Mertens' versatile game. Former doubles world number one Mertens used her complete arsenal of shots, including sliced forehands, drop shots, lobs and deep groundstrokes to move her opponent around and pin her back. Mertens, ranked 28th, was near flawless at the start, breaking the American twice in a row to race to a 5-0 lead and bag the first set in just 26 minutes. Pegula, who had advanced into the third round after her ailing Italian opponent Camila Giorgi retired after the first set, broke Mertens early in the second but the Belgian responded in the next game. Pegula earned another rare break point at 3-2 but sunk a three consecutive backhands into the net. The 27-year-old Belgian took advantage of Pegula's low first serve percentage to break her again and move 5-3 clear, leaving the frustrated American to shake her head and look at her coaching box for any help. Her ordeal was over after 82 minutes with her 28th unforced error. Also Read: French Open: Swiatek powers into round three; Sinner dumped out by world no. 79 Altmaier Aryna Sabalenka wasted no time as she whizzed into the fourth round of the French Open with a 6-2 6-2 drubbing of Kamilla Rakhimova of Russia on Friday. Strong on serve, the world number two broke twice in the opening set and raced to a 3-0 lead in the second on a sunbathed court Philippe Chatrier to set up a meeting with American Sloane Stephens or Yulia Putintseva of Kazakhstan. Sabalenka, who beat world number one Iga Swiatek in the Madrid Open final last month, has yet to lose a set in the tournament and has now broken her third-round loss streak in Paris. The Belarusian, whose run at Roland Garros was stopped at that stage in the three previous editions, was always in control and despite some minor blips, faced only one break point - which she saved with a second-serve ace. "It feels amazing to feel the support and just to be on this court and have the opportunity to play tennis," the Australian Open champion said after an encounter that lasted a little over an hour. "Every tournament is different, Roland Garros is especially different from the Australian Open because of the surface but winning gives you confidence."

French Open: Pegula's maiden Grand Slam title hopes ends with loss to Mertens, Sabalenka enters R4

<p>Novak Djokovic defiantly insisted on Wednesday, "It's something I stand for," regarding the controversy over his comments about Kosovo earlier this week at the French Open. On Monday, the 22-time Grand Slam champion wrote, "Kosovo is the heart of Serbia. Stop the violence," on a TV camera after his first match at Roland Garros.</p>

<p>"I would say it again, but I don't need to because you have my quotes," he said after making the third round on Wednesday with a straight-sets win over Marton Fucsovics. "I'm aware that a lot of people would disagree, but it is what it is. It's something that I stand for. So that's all."</p>

<p>Djokovic had defended his message in comments to Serb media, saying that Kosovo is Serbia's "cradle, our stronghold".</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/djokovic-brushes-aside-kosovo-row-to-reach-french-open-last-32-598948">Djokovic brushes aside Kosovo row to reach French Open last 32</a></p>

<p>The International Tennis Federation (ITF), the governing body of the sport, said they had received a request from the Kosovo Tennis Federation demanding Djokovic be sanctioned over his actions. However, they pointed out that such statements do not contravene regulations.</p>

<p>"Rules for player conduct at a Grand Slam event are governed by the Grand Slam rulebook, administered by the relevant organiser and regulator. There is no provision in this that prohibits political statements," an ITF spokesman told AFP.</p>

<p>Djokovic was criticised for his comments about recent clashes in Kosovo by French sports minister Amelie Oudea-Castera who said he "shouldn't get involved".</p>

<p>Oudea-Castera told broadcaster France 2 that Djokovic's message was "not appropriate, clearly".</p>

<p>"It was a message that is very activist, that is very political."</p>

<p>The Kosovo Olympic Committee (KOC) accused Djokovic of "stirring up" political tensions, a spokesman told AFP.</p>

<p>Djokovic "breached the fundamental principles of the Olympic Charter regarding political neutrality and involved yet another political statement in sports", the KOC wrote in a letter sent to the IOC on Tuesday.</p>

<p>KOC head Ismet Krasniqi sought that the IOC initiates disciplinary proceedings against Djokovic, said the letter posted on Facebook.</p>

<p>Such "behaviour cannot be tolerated as it sets a dangerous precedent that sports can be used as a platform for political messages, agendas and propaganda", the letter quoted Krasniqi as saying.</p>

<p>Ukrainian player Elina Svitolina, meanwhile,&nbsp;said that Djokovic should be free to "say his opinion".</p>

<p>Svitolina, who has repeatedly spoken out over tennis' response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, believes players should be able to talk publicly about political issues.</p>

<p>"We are living in a&nbsp;free world, so why not say your opinion on something?," said Svitolina. "I feel like if you stand for something, you think that this is the way, you should say."</p>

<p>"I mean, if you are with a friend sitting, talking, you're going to say your opinion, he is going to say his opinion. So why not?"</p>

<p>Thirty peacekeepers from a NATO-led force in Kosovo were injured in clashes with ethnic Serb demonstrators on Monday during protests against the installation of ethnic Albanian mayors in northern Kosovo after an extremely low-turnout elections boycotted by Serbs.</p>

<p>Kosovo, mostly populated by Muslim ethnic Albanians, broke away from the then-Yugoslavia in the late 1990s and declared independence in 2008, in a move that has never been accepted by neighbouring Christian-majority Serbia or its ally Russia.<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

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Novak Djokovic defiantly insisted on Wednesday, "It's something I stand for," regarding the controversy over his comments about Kosovo earlier this week at the French Open.

Novak Djokovic defiantly insisted on Wednesday, "It's something I stand for," regarding the controversy over his comments about Kosovo earlier this week at the French Open. On Monday, the 22-time Grand Slam champion wrote, "Kosovo is the heart of Serbia. Stop the violence," on a TV camera after his first match at Roland Garros. "I would say it again, but I don't need to because you have my quotes," he said after making the third round on Wednesday with a straight-sets win over Marton Fucsovics. "I'm aware that a lot of people would disagree, but it is what it is. It's something that I stand for. So that's all." Djokovic had defended his message in comments to Serb media, saying that Kosovo is Serbia's "cradle, our stronghold". ALSO READ: Djokovic brushes aside Kosovo row to reach French Open last 32 The International Tennis Federation (ITF), the governing body of the sport, said they had received a request from the Kosovo Tennis Federation demanding Djokovic be sanctioned over his actions. However, they pointed out that such statements do not contravene regulations. "Rules for player conduct at a Grand Slam event are governed by the Grand Slam rulebook, administered by the relevant organiser and regulator. There is no provision in this that prohibits political statements," an ITF spokesman told AFP. Djokovic was criticised for his comments about recent clashes in Kosovo by French sports minister Amelie Oudea-Castera who said he "shouldn't get involved". Oudea-Castera told broadcaster France 2 that Djokovic's message was "not appropriate, clearly". "It was a message that is very activist, that is very political." The Kosovo Olympic Committee (KOC) accused Djokovic of "stirring up" political tensions, a spokesman told AFP. Djokovic "breached the fundamental principles of the Olympic Charter regarding political neutrality and involved yet another political statement in sports", the KOC wrote in a letter sent to the IOC on Tuesday. KOC head Ismet Krasniqi sought that the IOC initiates disciplinary proceedings against Djokovic, said the letter posted on Facebook. Such "behaviour cannot be tolerated as it sets a dangerous precedent that sports can be used as a platform for political messages, agendas and propaganda", the letter quoted Krasniqi as saying. Ukrainian player Elina Svitolina, meanwhile, said that Djokovic should be free to "say his opinion". Svitolina, who has repeatedly spoken out over tennis' response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, believes players should be able to talk publicly about political issues. "We are living in a free world, so why not say your opinion on something?," said Svitolina. "I feel like if you stand for something, you think that this is the way, you should say." "I mean, if you are with a friend sitting, talking, you're going to say your opinion, he is going to say his opinion. So why not?" Thirty peacekeepers from a NATO-led force in Kosovo were injured in clashes with ethnic Serb demonstrators on Monday during protests against the installation of ethnic Albanian mayors in northern Kosovo after an extremely low-turnout elections boycotted by Serbs. Kosovo, mostly populated by Muslim ethnic Albanians, broke away from the then-Yugoslavia in the late 1990s and declared independence in 2008, in a move that has never been accepted by neighbouring Christian-majority Serbia or its ally Russia. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

French Open 2023: Novak Djokovic says 'it's what I stand for' in Kosovo 'heart of Serbia' row

<p>Fourth seed Elena Rybakina booked her third-round spot with a 6-3 6-3 victory over rising Czech teenager Linda Noskova on Thursday, confirming her status as one of the front-runners for the title. The Wimbledon champion, who also reached this year's Australian Open final, did not take long to pull away with a break in the third game when Noskova, ranked 50th, fired a backhand into the net.</p>

<p>But the 18-year-old, no stranger to the Paris clay after winning the French Open junior title two years, refused to go down without a fight but paid the price for some risky plays and a double fault on her serve at 40-40 and 5-3 down. Rybakina, a member of the new 'Big three' along with fellow title contenders, world number one Iga Swiatek and second seed Aryna Sabalenka, struggled with Noskova's powerful serve and thundering forehand.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-2023-novak-djokovic-says-its-what-i-stand-for-in-kosovo-heart-of-serbia-row-598972">French Open 2023: Novak Djokovic says 'it's what I stand for' in Kosovo 'heart of Serbia' row</a></strong></p>

<p>It was instead Noskova who carved out two break points at 3-3 but Rybakina, who won the title at Indian Wells and Rome this season while also reaching the final at the Miami Open, saved them both.</p>

<p>She responded in kind at the very next game to break Noskova and go 5-3 up before clinching the match with an ace on her fourth match point.</p>


Fourth seed Elena Rybakina booked her third-round spot with a 6-3 6-3 victory over rising Czech teenager Linda Noskova on Thursday, confirming her status as one of the front-runners for the title.

Fourth seed Elena Rybakina booked her third-round spot with a 6-3 6-3 victory over rising Czech teenager Linda Noskova on Thursday, confirming her status as one of the front-runners for the title. The Wimbledon champion, who also reached this year's Australian Open final, did not take long to pull away with a break in the third game when Noskova, ranked 50th, fired a backhand into the net. But the 18-year-old, no stranger to the Paris clay after winning the French Open junior title two years, refused to go down without a fight but paid the price for some risky plays and a double fault on her serve at 40-40 and 5-3 down. Rybakina, a member of the new 'Big three' along with fellow title contenders, world number one Iga Swiatek and second seed Aryna Sabalenka, struggled with Noskova's powerful serve and thundering forehand. Also read: French Open 2023: Novak Djokovic says 'it's what I stand for' in Kosovo 'heart of Serbia' row It was instead Noskova who carved out two break points at 3-3 but Rybakina, who won the title at Indian Wells and Rome this season while also reaching the final at the Miami Open, saved them both. She responded in kind at the very next game to break Noskova and go 5-3 up before clinching the match with an ace on her fourth match point.

French Open: Title contender Elena Rybakina marches past teenager Linda Noskova into third round

<p>Kosovo Olympic authorities have asked the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to open disciplinary proceedings against Novak&nbsp;Djokovic, accusing the Serbian of stirring up political tension by saying "Kosovo is the heart of Serbia" at the French Open. Djokovic&nbsp;wrote the message on a camera lens following his first-round win on Monday, the same day that 30 NATO peacekeeping troops were hurt in clashes with Serb protesters in the Kosovo town of Zvecan, where&nbsp;Djokovic's father grew up.</p>

<p>Serbian authorities said 52 protesters were wounded in the clashes. The violence erupted after ethnic Albanian mayors took office in northern Kosovo's Serb-majority area following elections that were boycotted by the Serbs. The world number three later said he was against any kind of conflict but defended his statement and described Kosovo's situation as a "precedent".</p>

<p>"Novak&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;has yet again promoted the Serbian nationalists' propaganda and used the sports platform to do so," Ismet Krasniqi, president of Kosovo's Olympic Committee (KOK), said in a statement. "The further post-match statements made by such a public figure without any feeling of remorse, directly result in raising the level of tension and violence between the two countries," he added, urging the IOC to investigate "by opening disciplinary proceedings against the athlete."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fugitive-kosovo-tennis-calls-out-serb-novak-djokovic-for-controversial-message-at-french-open-598614">Did Kosovo Tennis call Novak Djokovic a 'fugitive' over 'controversial' message at French Open?</a></strong></p>

<p>France's Sports Minister Amelie Oudea-Castera, whose country will host the Summer Olympics in Paris next year, said&nbsp;Djokovic's message was "not appropriate, clearly". "There is a principle of neutrality for the field of play. When you carry messages about defending human rights, messages that bring people together around universal values, a sports person is free to express them," she told French television. "But in this case, it was a message that is very activist, that is very political. You shouldn't get involved, especially in the current circumstances, and it shouldn't happen again."</p>

<p>Djokovic, chasing a record 23rd Grand Slam title, has said he was not holding back and would do it again. He is set to play his second-round match later on Wednesday against Hungary's Marton Fucsovics. The IOC did not immediately respond to a request for comment. On Tuesday, Kosovo's tennis federation said&nbsp;Djokovic's comments were "regrettable", accusing him of using his status as a well-known personality to stir tensions. NATO, which has some 4,000 soldiers currently in Kosovo, will send 700 extra troops to curb violence and put another battalion on high alert as unrest intensifies.</p>

<h2><strong>Svitolina backs Djokovic</strong></h2>

<p>"We are living in the free world, so why not say your opinion on something?," said Svitolina, who reached the third round with a 2-6, 6-3, 6-1 win over Storm Hunter on Wednesday.</p>

<p>"I feel like if you stand for something, you think that this is the way, you should say.</p>

<p>"I mean, if you are with a friend sitting, talking, you're going to say your opinion, he is going to say his opinion. So why not?" added Svitolina.</p>


Kosovo Olympic authorities have asked the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to open disciplinary proceedings against Novak Djokovic, accusing the Serbian of stirring up political tension by saying "Kosovo is the heart of Serbia" at the French Open.

Kosovo Olympic authorities have asked the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to open disciplinary proceedings against Novak Djokovic, accusing the Serbian of stirring up political tension by saying "Kosovo is the heart of Serbia" at the French Open. Djokovic wrote the message on a camera lens following his first-round win on Monday, the same day that 30 NATO peacekeeping troops were hurt in clashes with Serb protesters in the Kosovo town of Zvecan, where Djokovic's father grew up. Serbian authorities said 52 protesters were wounded in the clashes. The violence erupted after ethnic Albanian mayors took office in northern Kosovo's Serb-majority area following elections that were boycotted by the Serbs. The world number three later said he was against any kind of conflict but defended his statement and described Kosovo's situation as a "precedent". "Novak Djokovic has yet again promoted the Serbian nationalists' propaganda and used the sports platform to do so," Ismet Krasniqi, president of Kosovo's Olympic Committee (KOK), said in a statement. "The further post-match statements made by such a public figure without any feeling of remorse, directly result in raising the level of tension and violence between the two countries," he added, urging the IOC to investigate "by opening disciplinary proceedings against the athlete." Also Read: Did Kosovo Tennis call Novak Djokovic a 'fugitive' over 'controversial' message at French Open? France's Sports Minister Amelie Oudea-Castera, whose country will host the Summer Olympics in Paris next year, said Djokovic's message was "not appropriate, clearly". "There is a principle of neutrality for the field of play. When you carry messages about defending human rights, messages that bring people together around universal values, a sports person is free to express them," she told French television. "But in this case, it was a message that is very activist, that is very political. You shouldn't get involved, especially in the current circumstances, and it shouldn't happen again." Djokovic, chasing a record 23rd Grand Slam title, has said he was not holding back and would do it again. He is set to play his second-round match later on Wednesday against Hungary's Marton Fucsovics. The IOC did not immediately respond to a request for comment. On Tuesday, Kosovo's tennis federation said Djokovic's comments were "regrettable", accusing him of using his status as a well-known personality to stir tensions. NATO, which has some 4,000 soldiers currently in Kosovo, will send 700 extra troops to curb violence and put another battalion on high alert as unrest intensifies. Svitolina backs Djokovic "We are living in the free world, so why not say your opinion on something?," said Svitolina, who reached the third round with a 2-6, 6-3, 6-1 win over Storm Hunter on Wednesday. "I feel like if you stand for something, you think that this is the way, you should say. "I mean, if you are with a friend sitting, talking, you're going to say your opinion, he is going to say his opinion. So why not?" added Svitolina.

Kosovo Olympic Committee seeks IOC disciplinary action against Serbian star Novak Djokovic

<p>World number five Stefanos Tsitsipas eased past Spaniard Roberto Carballes Baena in straight sets 6-3 7-6(4) 6-2, on Wednesday (May 31),&nbsp;to advance to the French Open third round. After being stretched in his tournament opener versus Jiri Vesely, the Greek player was very much in control against Baena and closed the game in straight sets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tsitsipas was quick to take the early honours in the opening set. He took the first set 6-3 before Baena made a comeback of sorts in the second set. Baena fought hard in the second set and stretched it to the tiebreaker. The 24-year-old held his composure to emerge on top. In the third set, it was all about Tsitsipas as he stormed past his opponent 6-2 without breaking much sweat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tsitsipas will not like to let loose as he will now gear up for the third round. His opponent for the upcoming round is yet to be decided. The 2021 French Open runners-up will be desperate to go the distance in the mega event, the second Grand Slam of the year, and claim his major title. In the Australian Open 2023, he ended second after losing to Novak Djokovic and, thus, will be determined to go a step ahead at the Roland Garros.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kosovo-olympic-committee-seeks-ioc-disciplinary-action-against-serbian-star-novak-djokovic-598779">Kosovo Olympic Committee seeks IOC disciplinary action against Serbian star Novak Djokovic</a></strong></p>

<h2><b>Pegula moves ahead</b></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Jessica Pegula advanced to the third round of the women's singles after her opponent Camila Giorgi retired following the opening set. Giogi suffered a leg injury, prompting her to withdraw from the showpiece event. On Wednesday, the likes of Stan Wawrinka, Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic will also be seen in action on the clay-court tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Tuesday (May 30), Russian player Daniil Medvedev became one of the first among the top-ranked players to exit from the Roland Garros. He lost to Brazilian qualifier Thiago Seyboth Wild&nbsp;7-6(5), 6-7(6), 2-6, 6-3. 6-. After the defeat, Medvedev said he was 'happy' with the end of the claycourt season.</p>

<p>“Every time it (the claycourt season) finishes I’m happy. So I’m happy. I’m happy again. Doesn’t matter, one time quarters, one time fourth round, a lot of times first round,” Medvedev told reporters.&nbsp;“Today because of the wind and the dry court, I had my mouth full of clay since probably the third game of the match, and I don’t like it. I don’t know if people like to eat clay, to have clay in their bags, in their shoes, the socks, white socks, you can throw them to the garbage after the clay season. Maybe some people like it. I don’t.”</p>


World number five Stefanos Tsitsipas eased past Spaniard Roberto Carballes Baena in straight sets 6-3 7-6(4) 6-2, on Wednesday (May 31), to advance to the French Open third round.

World number five Stefanos Tsitsipas eased past Spaniard Roberto Carballes Baena in straight sets 6-3 7-6(4) 6-2, on Wednesday (May 31), to advance to the French Open third round. After being stretched in his tournament opener versus Jiri Vesely, the Greek player was very much in control against Baena and closed the game in straight sets. Tsitsipas was quick to take the early honours in the opening set. He took the first set 6-3 before Baena made a comeback of sorts in the second set. Baena fought hard in the second set and stretched it to the tiebreaker. The 24-year-old held his composure to emerge on top. In the third set, it was all about Tsitsipas as he stormed past his opponent 6-2 without breaking much sweat. Tsitsipas will not like to let loose as he will now gear up for the third round. His opponent for the upcoming round is yet to be decided. The 2021 French Open runners-up will be desperate to go the distance in the mega event, the second Grand Slam of the year, and claim his major title. In the Australian Open 2023, he ended second after losing to Novak Djokovic and, thus, will be determined to go a step ahead at the Roland Garros. Also Read: Kosovo Olympic Committee seeks IOC disciplinary action against Serbian star Novak Djokovic Pegula moves ahead Meanwhile, Jessica Pegula advanced to the third round of the women's singles after her opponent Camila Giorgi retired following the opening set. Giogi suffered a leg injury, prompting her to withdraw from the showpiece event. On Wednesday, the likes of Stan Wawrinka, Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic will also be seen in action on the clay-court tournament. On Tuesday (May 30), Russian player Daniil Medvedev became one of the first among the top-ranked players to exit from the Roland Garros. He lost to Brazilian qualifier Thiago Seyboth Wild 7-6(5), 6-7(6), 2-6, 6-3. 6-. After the defeat, Medvedev said he was 'happy' with the end of the claycourt season. “Every time it (the claycourt season) finishes I’m happy. So I’m happy. I’m happy again. Doesn’t matter, one time quarters, one time fourth round, a lot of times first round,” Medvedev told reporters. “Today because of the wind and the dry court, I had my mouth full of clay since probably the third game of the match, and I don’t like it. I don’t know if people like to eat clay, to have clay in their bags, in their shoes, the socks, white socks, you can throw them to the garbage after the clay season. Maybe some people like it. I don’t.”

French Open: Stefanos Tsitsipas goes past Roberto Carballés Baena in straight sets, enters third round

<p>On Monday (May 29), former world number one Novak Djokovic eased past debutant Aleksandar Kovacevic in the first round of the French Open 2023 edition. Squaring off with the newcomer, Djokovic risked controversy by sharing a message about Kosovo and urging to stop the violence.&nbsp;The 22-time Grand Slam champion shared a message for one and all as he wrote on a camera lens in Serbian, stating, "Kosovo is the heart of Serbia. Stop the violence."</p>

<p>It is to be noted that the incident happened amid rising tensions in Kosovo. On Monday, clashes broke out between Serb protesters and NATO peacekeeping soldiers -- defending three town halls in northern Kosovo -- which led to as many as 25 soldiers being injured. Thus, Djokovic joined in and gave a special message for his countrymen after a winning start at the Roland Garros.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-1"><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-2023-novak-djokovic-opens-campaign-with-straight-set-win-over-philippe-chatrier-597995">French Open 2023: Novak Djokovic opens campaign with straight set win over Aleksandar Kovacevic</a></strong></p>

<h2 data-testid="paragraph-1">'My stance is clear: I am against wars, violence and any kind of conflict, as I’ve always stated publicly'</h2>

<p data-testid="paragraph-1">After his match, Djokovic told a news briefing, "As a son of a man born in Kosovo, I feel the need to give my support to our people and to the entire Serbia. My stance is clear: I am against wars, violence and any kind of conflict, as I’ve always stated publicly. I empathise with all people, but the situation with Kosovo is a precedent in international law."</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-1">The French tennis federation (FFT), which organises the French Open, reacted to Djokovic's message and told Reuters, "No official Grand Slam rules on what players can or cannot say. The FFT will not be making any statement or taking any stance on this matter."</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-1">Djokovic will now lock horns with Hungary's Marton&nbsp;Fucsovics in the second round on Wednesday (May 31). He is expected to go the distance in 2023's second Grand Slam tournament and compete for the mega title along with No. 1 ranked Carlos Alcaraz.&nbsp;</p>


On Monday (May 29), former world number one Novak Djokovic eased past debutant Aleksandar Kovacevic in the first round of the French Open 2023 edition. Squaring off with the newcomer, Djokovic risked controversy by sharing a message about Kosovo and urging to stop the violence.

On Monday (May 29), former world number one Novak Djokovic eased past debutant Aleksandar Kovacevic in the first round of the French Open 2023 edition. Squaring off with the newcomer, Djokovic risked controversy by sharing a message about Kosovo and urging to stop the violence. The 22-time Grand Slam champion shared a message for one and all as he wrote on a camera lens in Serbian, stating, "Kosovo is the heart of Serbia. Stop the violence." It is to be noted that the incident happened amid rising tensions in Kosovo. On Monday, clashes broke out between Serb protesters and NATO peacekeeping soldiers -- defending three town halls in northern Kosovo -- which led to as many as 25 soldiers being injured. Thus, Djokovic joined in and gave a special message for his countrymen after a winning start at the Roland Garros. Also Read: French Open 2023: Novak Djokovic opens campaign with straight set win over Aleksandar Kovacevic 'My stance is clear: I am against wars, violence and any kind of conflict, as I’ve always stated publicly' After his match, Djokovic told a news briefing, "As a son of a man born in Kosovo, I feel the need to give my support to our people and to the entire Serbia. My stance is clear: I am against wars, violence and any kind of conflict, as I’ve always stated publicly. I empathise with all people, but the situation with Kosovo is a precedent in international law." The French tennis federation (FFT), which organises the French Open, reacted to Djokovic's message and told Reuters, "No official Grand Slam rules on what players can or cannot say. The FFT will not be making any statement or taking any stance on this matter." Djokovic will now lock horns with Hungary's Marton Fucsovics in the second round on Wednesday (May 31). He is expected to go the distance in 2023's second Grand Slam tournament and compete for the mega title along with No. 1 ranked Carlos Alcaraz.

Novak Djokovic shares message for violence-hit Kosovo after first-round win in French Open

<p>The famously fickle Paris crowd made themselves heard on the opening day of the French Open, booing when Ukraine's Marta Kostyuk refused to shake hands after her first-round defeat by Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus on Sunday.</p>

<p>Stefanos Tsitsipas, the runner-up in Paris in 2021, was later dragged into a dogfight by Czech Jiri Vesely before he advanced in four sets and seeds Karen Khachanov and Hubert Hurkacz also battled their way into the second round.</p>

<p>Kostyuk had warned she would not shake hands with Russian and Belarusian players due to Moscow's invasion of its neighbour Ukraine and she kept her word on a sun-kissed court Philippe Chatrier after losing 6-3 6-2 to world number two Sabalenka.</p>

<p>Sabalenka, who initially thought the boos were for her, theatrically bowed to supporters before thanking them for their backing and later said she understood Kostyuk's choice to skip the customary gesture.</p>

<p>She added that the Ukrainian did not deserve to leave the main showcourt in the manner she did but Kostyuk urged Sabalenka to take a stronger and more personal stand against the war.</p>

<p>"She (Sabalenka) never says that she personally doesn't support this war, and I feel like journalists should change the questions you ask these athletes because the war is already there," Kostyuk said. "It's been 15 months since the war has begun."</p>

<p>Greek fifth seed Tsitsipas was made to work hard by Vesely, who is on the comeback trail following a lengthy injury absence, before winning 7-5 6-3 4-6 7-6(7). "I said to myself there's no chance this is going to a fifth set," said Tsitsipas. "Jiri was a difficult obstacle. He gave me a hard time and I'm happy I overcame it in such a fashion."</p>

<p>Russian Khachanov defeated local favourite Constant Lestienne 3-6 1-6 6-2 6-1 6-3 and the 11th seed was joined in the second round by Polish 13th seed Hurkacz who battled past David Goffin 6-3 5-7 6-4 2-6 6-4.</p>

<p>Australian wildcard Thanasi Kokkinakis pulled off an upset by downing British 20th seed Dan Evans 6-4 6-4 6-4. Monte Carlo champion Andrey Rublev, the seventh seed, overcame a mid-match wobble to beat Laslo Djere 6-1 3-6 6-3 6-4.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/golf-emiliano-grillo-wins-pga-tours-charles-schwab-challenge-for-first-title-in-eight-years-597644">Golf: Emiliano Grillo wins PGA Tour's Charles Schwab Challenge for first title in eight years</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>SAKKARI CRASHES</strong></p>

<p>Eighth seed Maria Sakkari became an early casualty on Court Suzanne Lenglen as she fell 7-6(5) 7-5 to Karolina Muchova, who also beat the Greek player in straight sets at last year's tournament. Third seed Jessica Pegula was in no mood for any adventures and cruised into the next round with a 6-4 6-2 win over fellow American Danielle Collins.</p>

<p>Canadian Leylah Fernandez downed 21st seed Magda Linette 6-3 1-6 6-3 while Poland's Magdalena Frech sent 29th seed Zhang Shuai packing after a 6-1 6-1 victory. Earlier, spectators lined up in huge numbers under panama hats and umbrellas as the year's second Grand Slam tournament began in bright sunshine.</p>

<p>After a record 50,000 people - compared to 29,000 last year - attended the qualifying event, fashionably late fans queued to get their seats despite temperatures reaching 27 degrees Celsius in the afternoon, with water vending stands busy all day.</p>

<p>There will be an unfamiliar feel to this year's tournament, with holder and 14-times winner Rafa Nadal out injured. "Of course, it's a big miss. My son wanted to see Nadal but now we will be supporting (Carlos) Alcaraz," said Gerald Furst, who runs a&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;club in the south of France. "I like (Novak) Djokovic as well, he's an amazing player. I believe it'll be a semi-final between Alcaraz and Djokovic. We want to see this match."</p>

<p>Serbian Djokovic, who is bidding for his third French Open title and a men's record 23rd major crown, takes on Aleksandar Kovacevic on Monday. Spanish top seed Alcaraz will also be in action against Flavio Cobolli.</p>


The famously fickle Paris crowd made themselves heard on the opening day of the French Open, booing when Ukraine's Marta Kostyuk refused to shake hands after her first-round defeat by Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus on Sunday.

The famously fickle Paris crowd made themselves heard on the opening day of the French Open, booing when Ukraine's Marta Kostyuk refused to shake hands after her first-round defeat by Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus on Sunday. Stefanos Tsitsipas, the runner-up in Paris in 2021, was later dragged into a dogfight by Czech Jiri Vesely before he advanced in four sets and seeds Karen Khachanov and Hubert Hurkacz also battled their way into the second round. Kostyuk had warned she would not shake hands with Russian and Belarusian players due to Moscow's invasion of its neighbour Ukraine and she kept her word on a sun-kissed court Philippe Chatrier after losing 6-3 6-2 to world number two Sabalenka. Sabalenka, who initially thought the boos were for her, theatrically bowed to supporters before thanking them for their backing and later said she understood Kostyuk's choice to skip the customary gesture. She added that the Ukrainian did not deserve to leave the main showcourt in the manner she did but Kostyuk urged Sabalenka to take a stronger and more personal stand against the war. "She (Sabalenka) never says that she personally doesn't support this war, and I feel like journalists should change the questions you ask these athletes because the war is already there," Kostyuk said. "It's been 15 months since the war has begun." Greek fifth seed Tsitsipas was made to work hard by Vesely, who is on the comeback trail following a lengthy injury absence, before winning 7-5 6-3 4-6 7-6(7). "I said to myself there's no chance this is going to a fifth set," said Tsitsipas. "Jiri was a difficult obstacle. He gave me a hard time and I'm happy I overcame it in such a fashion." Russian Khachanov defeated local favourite Constant Lestienne 3-6 1-6 6-2 6-1 6-3 and the 11th seed was joined in the second round by Polish 13th seed Hurkacz who battled past David Goffin 6-3 5-7 6-4 2-6 6-4. Australian wildcard Thanasi Kokkinakis pulled off an upset by downing British 20th seed Dan Evans 6-4 6-4 6-4. Monte Carlo champion Andrey Rublev, the seventh seed, overcame a mid-match wobble to beat Laslo Djere 6-1 3-6 6-3 6-4. Also Read: Golf: Emiliano Grillo wins PGA Tour's Charles Schwab Challenge for first title in eight years SAKKARI CRASHES Eighth seed Maria Sakkari became an early casualty on Court Suzanne Lenglen as she fell 7-6(5) 7-5 to Karolina Muchova, who also beat the Greek player in straight sets at last year's tournament. Third seed Jessica Pegula was in no mood for any adventures and cruised into the next round with a 6-4 6-2 win over fellow American Danielle Collins. Canadian Leylah Fernandez downed 21st seed Magda Linette 6-3 1-6 6-3 while Poland's Magdalena Frech sent 29th seed Zhang Shuai packing after a 6-1 6-1 victory. Earlier, spectators lined up in huge numbers under panama hats and umbrellas as the year's second Grand Slam tournament began in bright sunshine. After a record 50,000 people - compared to 29,000 last year - attended the qualifying event, fashionably late fans queued to get their seats despite temperatures reaching 27 degrees Celsius in the afternoon, with water vending stands busy all day. There will be an unfamiliar feel to this year's tournament, with holder and 14-times winner Rafa Nadal out injured. "Of course, it's a big miss. My son wanted to see Nadal but now we will be supporting (Carlos) Alcaraz," said Gerald Furst, who runs a tennis club in the south of France. "I like (Novak) Djokovic as well, he's an amazing player. I believe it'll be a semi-final between Alcaraz and Djokovic. We want to see this match." Serbian Djokovic, who is bidding for his third French Open title and a men's record 23rd major crown, takes on Aleksandar Kovacevic on Monday. Spanish top seed Alcaraz will also be in action against Flavio Cobolli.

Tennis: Aryna Sabalenka prevails, Marta Kostyuk urges stronger anti-war stance after French Open boos

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